Vent for a respiratory system

Abstract

The present invention relates to a vent structure for a respiratory therapy system. In one form, the vent structure includes a vent housing. The vent housing can define a flow path for expelling a flow of air from the respiratory therapy system, a vent inlet configured to allow the flow of air to enter the flow path, and a vent outlet configured to allow the flow of air to exit the flow path to ambient air. The vent housing can be configured such that the flow path includes a curved turn region in which the flow path changes direction by at least 90°. The vent housing can include an inner path surface on an inner side of the flow path and an outer path surface on an outer side of the flow path. A width of the flow path at the turn region and at a region downstream of the turn region can be substantially at least 0.85 mm. An opening angle between the inner path surface of the vent housing at the vent outlet and the outer path surface of the vent housing at the vent outlet is substantially 7° or less.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference of related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Australian Provisional Patent Application No. 2021900948, filed on March 31, 2021, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This technology relates to one or more of the screening, diagnosis, monitoring, treatment, prevention, and improvement of respiratory-related disorders. This technology also relates to medical devices or equipment and their uses. Background Technology

[0004] Human respiratory system and its disorders

[0005] The human respiratory system facilitates gas exchange. The nose and mouth form the airway entrance for the patient.

[0006] The airways consist of a series of branching tubes that become narrower, shorter, and more numerous as they penetrate deeper into the lungs. The primary function of the lungs is gas exchange, allowing oxygen to move from inhaled air into the venous blood, and carbon dioxide to move in the opposite direction. The trachea divides into the right main bronchus and the left main bronchus, which eventually further divide into the terminal bronchioles. The bronchi form the conduction airways and do not participate in gas exchange. Further branches of the airways lead to the respiratory bronchioles and eventually to the alveoli. The alveolar regions of the lungs are where gas exchange occurs and are called the respiratory zones. See John B. West, *Respiratory Physiology*, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 9th edition, published in 2012.

[0007] A range of breathing disorders exist. Some disorders may be characterized by specific events, such as apnea, hypoventilation, and hyperventilation.

[0008] Examples of breathing disorders include obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), Cheyne-Stokes respiration (CSR), respiratory insufficiency, obesity hyperventilation syndrome (OHS), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), neuromuscular disease (NMD), and chest wall disorders.

[0009] Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a form of sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) characterized by events involving closure or obstruction of the upper airway during sleep. It arises from a combination of abnormally small upper airway size and normal loss of muscle tone in the areas of the tongue, soft palate, and posterior oropharyngeal walls during sleep. The condition causes affected patients 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 potentially cause cardiovascular disease and brain damage. This syndrome is a common disorder, particularly prevalent in middle-aged overweight men, but those affected may not be aware of the problem. See U.S. Patent No. 4,944,310 (Sullivan).

[0010] 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).

[0011] Respiratory failure is a broad term encompassing respiratory disorders in which the lungs are unable to inhale enough oxygen or exhale enough CO2 to meet the patient's needs. Respiratory failure can cover some or all of the following disorders.

[0012] Patients with respiratory insufficiency (a form of respiratory failure) may experience unusual shortness of breath during exercise.

[0013] 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.

[0014] Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) encompasses any of a group of lower airway diseases that share certain common characteristics. These diseases include increased air 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.

[0015] 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.

[0016] Chest wall disorders are a group of chest wall deformities that result in inefficient connection between the respiratory muscles and the thoracic cavity. These disorders are typically characterized by restrictive defects and have the potential to cause chronic hypercapnia-related respiratory failure. Scoliosis and / or kyphosis can cause severe respiratory failure. Symptoms of respiratory failure include: dyspnea during exercise, peripheral edema, orthopnea, recurrent chest infections, morning headache, fatigue, poor sleep quality, and loss of appetite.

[0017] A range of therapies have been used to treat or improve these conditions. Furthermore, other healthy individuals can utilize these therapies to prevent respiratory distress. However, these therapies have many drawbacks.

[0018] therapy

[0019] 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.

[0020] Respiratory pressure therapy

[0021] Respiratory pressure therapy is the application of 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 canister ventilators or chest tubes).

[0022] Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy has been used to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Its mechanism of action is that CPAP acts as a pneumatic 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 the therapy if they find one or more of the following to be true: uncomfortable, difficult to use, expensive, or unsightly.

[0023] 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 their 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, the comfort and effectiveness of these therapies can be improved.

[0024] Invasive ventilation (IV) provides ventilatory support to patients who are unable to breathe effectively on their own and can be delivered using a tracheostomy tube. In some forms, the comfort and effectiveness of these therapies can be improved.

[0025] Flow therapy

[0026] 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 instance, high-flow therapy (HFT) delivers 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 dead-zone 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, the therapeutic flow rate can follow a curve that varies throughout the respiratory cycle.

[0027] 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 into 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.).

[0028] Respiratory therapy system

[0029] 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 conditions without treating them.

[0030] 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.

[0031] Patient Interface

[0032] Patient interfaces can be used to connect respiratory equipment to their wearer, for example, by providing an airflow to the airway inlet. The airflow can be provided to the nose and / or mouth via a mask, to the mouth via a tube, or to the patient's trachea via a tracheostomy tube. Depending on the therapy applied, the patient interface can, for example, form a seal with an area of ​​the patient's face to facilitate the delivery of gas at a pressure sufficiently different from ambient pressure to achieve the therapy, such as a positive pressure of about 10 cmH2O relative to ambient pressure. For other forms of therapy, such as oxygen delivery, the patient interface may not include a seal sufficient to facilitate the delivery of a gas supply to the airway at a positive pressure of about 10 cmH2O. For flow-based therapies such as nasal HFT, the patient interface is configured to blow air into the nostrils, but specifically avoids a complete seal. An example of such a patient interface is a nasal cannula.

[0033] Some other mask systems may not be functionally suitable for this field. For example, a purely decorative mask may not be able to maintain adequate pressure. Mask systems for underwater swimming or diving may be configured to prevent the ingress of water from higher external pressures, but not to maintain internal air at a pressure higher than ambient.

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

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

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

[0037] The design of the patient interface presents numerous challenges. The face has a complex three-dimensional shape. The size and shape of the nose and head vary greatly between individuals. Because the head comprises bones, cartilage, and soft tissue, different areas of the face respond differently to mechanical forces. The jawbone or mandible can move relative to the other bones of the skull. The entire head can move during the course of a respiratory therapy session.

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

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

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

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

[0042] Respiratory Pressure Therapy (RPT) device

[0043] Respiratory pressure therapy (RPT) devices can be used alone or as part of a system to deliver one or more of the aforementioned therapies, such as 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-based therapies such as HFT). Therefore, RPT devices can also be used as flow-based therapy devices. Examples of RPT devices include CPAP devices and ventilators.

[0044] air circuit

[0045] An air circuit is a conduit or tube constructed and arranged to allow airflow between two components of a respiratory therapy system (such as the RPT device and the patient interface) during use. In some cases, there may be separate branches of the air circuit for inhalation and exhalation. In other cases, a single branch air circuit is used for both inhalation and exhalation.

[0046] humidifier

[0047] Delivering an unhumidified airflow can lead to airway dryness. Using a humidifier with an RPT device and patient interface to produce humidified air minimizes dryness of the nasal mucosa and increases patient airway comfort. Additionally, in cooler climates, warm air applied to the area inside and around the patient interface on the face is generally more comfortable than cold air. Therefore, humidifiers typically have the ability to both heat and humidify the airflow.

[0048] Ventilation technology

[0049] Some forms of therapeutic systems may include vents to allow the flushing of exhaled carbon dioxide. Vents may allow gas to flow from the interior space of the patient interface (e.g., a pneumatic chamber) to the exterior of the patient interface (e.g., into the environment).

[0050] Ventilation ports may include openings through which air can flow during mask use. Many such ventilation ports are noisy. Others may become blocked during use, thus providing insufficient flushing. Some ventilation ports may, for example, disturb the sleep of the patient's bed partner by causing noise or congested airflow.

[0051] ResMed Limited has developed numerous improved mask ventilation technologies. See International Patent Application Publication No. WO 1998 / 034,665; International Patent Application Publication No. WO 2000 / 078,381; U.S. Patent No. 6,581,594; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. US2009 / 0050156; and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2009 / 0044808.

[0052] The noise level of the existing face mask (ISO 17510-2:2007, pressure at 1m and 10cmH2O)

[0053]

[0054]

[0055] (*Only one sample, measured in CPAP mode at 10 cmH2O using the test method specified in ISO 3744)

[0056] The sound pressure levels of various objects are listed below.

[0057] Summary of the Invention

[0058] 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.

[0059] The first aspect of this technology relates to devices for screening, diagnosing, monitoring, improving, treating or preventing respiratory disorders.

[0060] Another aspect of this technology relates to methods for screening, diagnosing, monitoring, improving, treating, or preventing respiratory disorders.

[0061] One aspect of certain forms of this technology is to provide methods and / or devices for improving patient adherence to respiratory therapy.

[0062] One aspect of this technology relates to a ventilation structure for a respiratory therapy system. In some forms, the ventilation structure may form part of a connecting member for the respiratory therapy system. In some forms, the ventilation structure may form part of a patient interface for the respiratory therapy system.

[0063] One form of the technology includes a ventilation structure for a respiratory therapy system, the ventilation structure comprising: a ventilation housing defining a flow path for exhausting an airflow from the respiratory therapy system, a ventilation inlet configured to allow an airflow into the flow path, and a ventilation outlet configured to allow an airflow to exit the flow path into ambient air, wherein the ventilation housing is configured such that the flow path includes a bend and turn region in which the flow path changes direction.

[0064] In some forms, the vent housing is configured such that the flow path includes a bend and turn region in which the flow path changes direction by at least 90°. In other forms, the vent housing is configured such that, through the turn region, the flow path changes direction to a substantially opposite direction. For example, the vent housing may be configured such that the flow path includes a bend and turn region in which the flow path changes direction by an angle of substantially 180°.

[0065] In some forms, the width of the flow path at the turning region and downstream of the turning region is large enough to prevent water droplets in the airflow from obstructing the flow path, while being small enough to regulate the flow rate. For example, in some forms, the width of the flow path at the turning region and downstream of the turning region is substantially at least 0.85 mm. In some forms, the width of the flow path is in the range of 0.75 mm to 1.5 mm.

[0066] One form of the technology includes a ventilation structure for a respiratory therapy system, the ventilation structure comprising: a ventilation housing defining a flow path for exhausting an airflow from the respiratory therapy system, a ventilation inlet configured to allow an airflow into the flow path, and a ventilation outlet configured to allow an airflow to exit the flow path into ambient air, wherein the ventilation housing is configured such that the flow path includes a bend turning region in which the flow path changes direction by at least 90°, wherein the width of the flow path at the bend turning region and in a region downstream of the bend turning region is substantially at least 0.85 mm.

[0067] One form of this technology includes a ventilation structure for a respiratory therapy system, the ventilation structure comprising: a ventilation housing defining a flow path for exhausting an airflow from the respiratory therapy system; a ventilation inlet configured to allow airflow into the flow path; and a ventilation outlet configured to allow airflow to exit the flow path into ambient air. The ventilation housing is configured such that the flow path includes a bend and deflection region in which the flow path changes direction, and the ventilation housing includes an inner path surface on the inner side of the flow path and an outer path surface on the outer side of the flow path. In some forms, the opening angle between the inner path surface of the ventilation housing at the ventilation outlet and the outer path surface of the ventilation housing at the ventilation outlet is substantially 7° or less.

[0068] In the example: a) in the turning region, the inner path surface has a curved cross-sectional shape, such as an arc shape; b) the inner path surface has a cross-sectional shape in the form of a part of a wing or similar to a part of a wing; c) the wing defines a chord with a chord length of at least 50 mm; d) the maximum thickness region of the wing is located along the chord at a distance of at least 25% of the chord length from the end of the chord adjacent to the turning region; e) the vent outlet is located downstream of the maximum thickness region; and / or f) the vent housing includes a plurality of partitions that form a plurality of flow paths therebetween, wherein the plurality of flow paths includes the flow path, and other flow paths among the plurality of flow paths are similar to the flow path.

[0069] One form of this technology includes a patient interface comprising a pneumatic chamber pressurizable to a treatment pressure at least 6 cmH2O above ambient air pressure. The pneumatic chamber includes a pneumatic chamber inlet port, the size and structure of which are designed to receive an airflow for patient breathing at the treatment pressure. A sealing structure is constructed and arranged to form a seal with a region of the patient's face surrounding the patient's airway inlet, the sealing structure having an opening therein such that an airflow at the treatment pressure is delivered to at least one inlet of the patient's nostril. The forming structure is constructed and arranged to maintain the therapeutic pressure in the pneumatic chamber throughout the patient's respiratory cycle during use; and a ventilation structure of any form according to the above-described technology, wherein the ventilation structure allows a continuous flow of gas exhaled by the patient from the interior of the pneumatic chamber to the environment, the size and shape of the ventilation structure being designed to maintain the therapeutic pressure in the pneumatic chamber during use, and wherein the patient interface is configured to allow the patient to breathe from the environment through their mouth without pressurized airflow through the pneumatic chamber inlet port, or the patient interface is configured to leave the patient's mouth uncovered.

[0070] One form of the technology includes a connection member configured to directly or indirectly fluidly connect an air circuit to a patient interface of a respiratory therapy system. The connection member includes a tubular portion comprising a first end configured to directly or indirectly fluidly connect to an air circuit and a second end configured to directly or indirectly fluidly connect to the patient interface, and a ventilation structure according to any of the above-described technologies, the ventilation structure being configured to allow air in the tubular portion to exit into the ambient air.

[0071] In the example: a) the tube portion includes an outer tube portion and an inner tube portion; b) the outer tube portion is rotatable relative to the inner tube portion about a mutual longitudinal axis; and / or c) the outer tube portion includes a first end portion, and the inner tube portion includes a second end portion.

[0072] One form of this technology includes a connecting member configured to directly or indirectly fluidly connect an air circuit to a patient interface in a respiratory system. The connecting member includes a tubular portion configured to fluidly connect the air circuit to the patient interface. The tubular portion includes a first end configured to directly or indirectly fluidly connect to the air circuit, a second end configured to directly or indirectly fluidly connect to the patient interface, an outer tubular portion, and an inner tubular portion. The outer tubular portion is rotatable relative to the inner tubular portion and the outer tubular portion about their respective longitudinal axes. The connecting member also includes a means for venting air from the inner tubular portion away from the air circuit. A ventilation structure for expelling air into ambient air, the ventilation structure including a ventilation housing including at least a portion of an outer tube portion, wherein the outer tube portion defines only a portion of a flow path for airflow to be discharged, and wherein the ventilation housing defines a ventilation inlet and a ventilation outlet, the ventilation inlet being configured to allow airflow to enter the flow path from within a connecting member, and the ventilation outlet being configured to allow airflow to exit the ventilation housing into ambient air, wherein the ventilation structure further includes a noise attenuation structure for reducing noise generated by airflow between the outer tube portion and the inner tube portion.

[0073] In the example: a) the flow path is substantially parallel to each other's longitudinal axes; b) the noise attenuation structure includes the inner tube portion and / or a portion of the outer tube portion, these portions being configured to form a stepped region in the gap between the inner tube portion and the outer tube portion; c) the noise attenuation structure includes the inner tube portion and / or a portion of the outer tube portion, these portions being configured to form a sound attenuation chamber in the gap between the inner tube portion and the outer tube portion; d) a portion of the flow path defined by the outer tube portion is a first flow path portion, wherein the vent housing also includes a portion of the inner tube portion, wherein the inner tube portion and the outer tube portion define a second flow path portion therebetween, wherein the flow path includes the second flow path portion, and wherein the second flow path portion receives airflow from the first flow path portion and delivers the airflow to the vent outlet; e) the second flow path portion The flow path includes a bend and turn region in which the flow path changes direction by at least 90°; f) through the turn region, the flow path changes direction to a substantially opposite direction; g) through the turn region, the flow path changes direction by a substantially 180° angle; h) the first end is configured to be directly fluidly connected to a first portion of the air circuit, and the second end is configured to be directly fluidly connected to a second portion of the air circuit; i) the outer tube portion includes the first end, and the inner tube portion includes the second end; j) the connecting member includes a flow suppressor for suppressing air from leaving the inner tube portion into ambient air by flow between the inner tube portion and the outer tube portion; and / or k) the flow suppressor includes an annular seal positioned to substantially block airflow through the opening to the gap between the inner tube portion and the outer tube portion.

[0074] One form of the technology includes a connecting member configured to directly or indirectly fluidly connect an air circuit to a patient interface of a respiratory therapy system. The connecting member includes a tubular portion configured to fluidly connect the air circuit to the patient interface. The tubular portion includes a first end configured to be directly or indirectly fluidly connected to the air circuit and a second end configured to be directly or indirectly fluidly connected to the patient interface. The connecting member further includes a venting structure for discharging air from an internal volume of the tubular portion. The venting structure includes: a vent housing including at least a portion of the tubular portion; and a plurality of partitions within the vent housing forming a plurality of flow paths therebetween. Each flow path includes a vent inlet and a vent outlet, the vent inlet configured to receive an airflow and the vent outlet configured to allow the airflow to exit into ambient air. The flow path bends around the tubular portion.

[0075] In the example: a) the vent inlet and the vent outlet are circumferentially offset around the tube portion; b) each of the flow paths forms a helical shape around the tube portion; c) the vent inlet is positioned closer to the first end of the tube portion; d) the vent outlet is positioned closer to the second end of the tube portion; e) the tube portion includes an outer tube portion and an inner tube portion; f) the outer tube portion is rotatable relative to the inner tube portion about a mutual longitudinal axis; g) the vent housing includes at least a portion of the outer tube portion; h) the vent housing includes at least a portion of the inner tube portion; i) the separator is formed on the outer surface of the inner tube portion; j) the first end is configured to be directly fluidly connected to a first portion of the air circuit and the second end is configured to be directly fluidly connected to a second portion of the air circuit; k) a mushroom-shaped portion including a deflection region configured to change the direction of the airflow to a substantially opposite direction; and / or l) through the deflection region, the airflow changes direction at an angle of substantially 180°.

[0076] One aspect of this technology is a method for manufacturing equipment.

[0077] One aspect of certain forms of this technology is an easy-to-use medical device, for example, easy for a person without medical training, a person with limited dexterity and vision, or a person with limited experience in using this type of medical device.

[0078] One aspect of this technology is a portable RPT device that can be carried by a person (e.g., a person in a household).

[0079] One aspect of this technology is a patient interface that can be cleaned at the patient's home, for example, in soapy water, without requiring specialized cleaning equipment. Another aspect of this technology is a humidifier water tank that can be cleaned at the patient's home, for example, in soapy water, without requiring specialized cleaning equipment.

[0080] The described methods, systems, apparatus, and devices can be implemented to improve the functionality of processors, such as processors in dedicated computers, respiratory monitors, and / or respiratory therapy devices. Furthermore, the described methods, systems, apparatus, and devices can provide improvements in the field of automated management, monitoring, and / or treatment of respiratory conditions, including, for example, sleep-disordered breathing.

[0081] Of course, parts of these aspects can form sub-aspects of this technology. Furthermore, sub-aspects and / or aspects within an aspect can be combined in various ways and also constitute additional aspects or sub-aspects of this technology.

[0082] 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

[0083] The technology is illustrated by way of example and not limitation in the accompanying drawings, wherein similar reference numerals refer to similar elements, including:

[0084] Respiratory therapy system

[0085] Figure 1A A system is shown in which a patient 1000 wearing a patient interface 3000 in the form of 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.

[0086] Figure 1B A system including a patient 1000 wearing a patient interface 3000 in the form of a nasal mask is shown, receiving 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.

[0087] Figure 1C A system including a patient 1000 wearing a full-face mask-like patient interface 3000 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 is sleeping in a side-lying position.

[0088] Respiratory system and facial anatomy

[0089] Figure 2A A schematic diagram of the human respiratory system is shown, including the nasal cavity and oral cavity, larynx, vocal cords, esophagus, trachea, bronchi, lungs, alveolar sacs, heart, and diaphragm.

[0090] Figure 2B This diagram shows a view of the human upper airway, including the nasal cavity, nasal bones, lateral nasal cartilage, greater alar cartilage, nostrils, upper lip, lower lip, larynx, hard palate, soft palate, oropharynx, tongue, epiglottis, vocal cords, esophagus, and trachea.

[0091] Patient Interface

[0092] Figure 3A A patient interface in the form of a nasal mask according to the present technology is shown.

[0093] Figure 3BA patient interface in the form of a nasal cannula according to the present technology is shown.

[0094] RPT device

[0095] Figure 4A An RPT device of one form according to the present technology is shown.

[0096] Figure 4B 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 the blower and 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. Items within the pneumatic path between the blower and the patient interface are located downstream of the blower and upstream of the patient interface.

[0097] humidifier

[0098] Figure 5A An isometric view of one form of humidifier according to the present technology is shown.

[0099] Figure 5B An isometric view of a humidifier according to the present technology is shown, showing the humidifier reservoir 5110 removed from the humidifier reservoir base 5130.

[0100] respiratory waveform

[0101] Figure 6A A typical breathing waveform model of a person sleeping is shown.

[0102] Vent

[0103] Figure 7A A perspective view of one form of connecting member according to the present technology is shown.

[0104] Figure 7B It shows Figure 7A Exploded perspective view of the connecting components.

[0105] Figure 7C It shows Figure 7A Top view of the connecting components.

[0106] Figure 7D It shows Figure 7A A bottom view of the connecting components.

[0107] Figure 7E It shows Figure 7A The side view of the connecting member. The side view of the connecting member is the same from all sides.

[0108] Figure 7F It shows along Figure 7EA cross-sectional view of plane AA.

[0109] Figure 8A A front view of a face mask with two ventilation structures according to the present technology is shown.

[0110] Figure 8B It shows Figure 8A The diagram shows the bottom cross-section of region G along line H.

[0111] Figure 8C A cross-sectional view is shown of a portion of a face mask including a ventilation structure of one form according to the present technology.

[0112] Figure 8D A cross-sectional view is shown of a portion of a face mask including a ventilation structure of one form according to the present technology.

[0113] Figure 9A An exploded perspective view of one form of connecting member according to the present technology is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0114] Before describing this technology in more detail, it should be understood that this technology is not limited to the specific instances described herein. It should also be understood that the terminology used in this disclosure is for the purpose of describing the specific instances discussed herein and is not intended to be limiting.

[0115] The following description provides various examples of instances that may share one or more common characteristics and / or features. It should be understood that one or more features of any instance may be combined with one or more features of another instance or other instances. Furthermore, any single feature or combination of features in any instance may constitute another instance.

[0116] therapy

[0117] In one form, the technology includes a method for treating respiratory distress, the method comprising applying positive pressure to the airway inlet of a patient 1000.

[0118] In some instances of this technique, positive pressure air is supplied to the patient's nasal passages via one or both nostrils.

[0119] In some instances of this technology, mouth breathing is restricted, constrained, or prevented.

[0120] Respiratory therapy system

[0121] 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 or 3800.

[0122] Patient Interface

[0123] According to one aspect of the present technology, a non-invasive patient interface 3000 includes the following functional aspects: a seal-forming structure 3100, a pneumatic chamber 3200, a positioning and stabilizing structure 3300, an airway 3400, a connection port 3600 for connection to an air circuit 4170, and a forehead support 3700. In some forms, the functional aspects may be provided by one or more physical components. In some forms, a single physical component may provide one or more functional aspects. In use, the seal-forming structure 3100 is arranged around the patient's airway inlet to maintain positive pressure at the patient's airway inlet. Therefore, the sealed patient interface 3000 is suitable for delivering positive pressure therapy.

[0124] An unsealed patient interface 3800 in the form of a nasal cannula includes nasal forks 3810a, 3810b through which air can be delivered to the corresponding nostrils of a patient 1000 via corresponding orifices in their tips. Such nasal forks typically do not form a seal with the inner or outer skin surface of the nostril. Air can be delivered to the nasal forks via one or more air supply lumens 3820a, 3820b coupled to the nasal cannula 3800. Lumens 3820a, 3820b guide air from the nasal cannula 3800 to a respiratory therapy device via an air circuit. The unsealed patient interface 3800 is particularly suitable for delivery of flow therapy, where the RPT device generates an airflow at a controlled flow rate rather than a controlled pressure. An excess airflow escapes into the environment through a “vent” at the unsealed patient interface 3800, which is a passageway between the ends of the forks 3810a and 3810b of the cannula 3800 through the patient’s nostrils to the atmosphere.

[0125] If the patient interface cannot comfortably deliver a minimum level of positive pressure to the airway, then the patient interface may not be suitable for respiratory pressure therapy.

[0126] According to one form of the present technology, a patient interface 3000 is constructed and arranged to supply air at a positive pressure of at least 6 cmH2O relative to the environment.

[0127] According to one form of the present technology, a patient interface 3000 is constructed and arranged to supply air at a positive pressure of at least 10 cmH2O relative to the environment.

[0128] According to one form of the present technology, a patient interface 3000 is constructed and arranged to supply air at a positive pressure of at least 20 cmH2O relative to the environment.

[0129] Sealing Formation Structure

[0130] In one form of this technology, the seal-forming structure 3100 provides a target seal-forming area and may additionally provide a cushioning function. The target seal-forming area is the region on the seal-forming structure 3100 where a seal may occur. The actual area where a seal occurs—the actual sealing surface—can vary over time and from patient to patient within a given treatment session, depending on a range of factors, including, for example, the placement of the patient interface on the face, tension in the positioning and stabilizing structures, and the shape of the patient's face.

[0131] In one configuration, the target sealing area is located on the outer surface of the sealing structure 3100.

[0132] In some forms of this technology, the sealing structure 3100 is made of a biocompatible material, such as silicone rubber.

[0133] The sealing structure 3100 according to this technology can be made of a soft, flexible and resilient material such as silicone.

[0134] In some forms of this technology, a system is provided that includes more than one sealing formation structure 3100, each sealing formation structure 3100 being configured to correspond to a different range of sizes and / or shapes. For example, the system may include one type of sealing formation structure 3100 that is suitable for large-sized heads but not for small-sized heads, and another type that is suitable for small-sized heads but not for large-sized heads.

[0135] pneumatic chamber

[0136] The pneumatic chamber 3200 has a periphery whose shape is designed to complement the surface contour of a typical human face in the area where a seal will be formed during use. In use, the boundary edges of the pneumatic chamber 3200 are positioned adjacent to the face. Actual contact with the face is provided by the sealing structure 3100. The sealing structure 3100 can extend around the entire periphery of the pneumatic chamber 3200 during use. In some forms, both the pneumatic chamber 3200 and the sealing structure 3100 are formed from a single sheet of homogeneous material.

[0137] In some forms of this technology, the pneumatic chamber 3200 does not cover the patient's eyes during use. In other words, the eyes are outside the pressurized volume defined by the pneumatic chamber. Such forms tend to be less obtrusive and / or more comfortable for the wearer, which can improve adherence to therapy.

[0138] In some forms of this technology, the pneumatic chamber 3200 is made of a transparent material (e.g., transparent polycarbonate). Using a transparent material reduces the prominence of the patient interface and helps improve adherence to the therapy. The use of a transparent material also helps clinicians observe how the patient interface is positioned and functions.

[0139] In some forms of this technology, the pneumatic chamber 3200 is made of a translucent material. The use of a translucent material can reduce the prominence of the patient interface and help improve adherence to the therapy.

[0140] Positioning and stabilizing structure

[0141] The sealing structure 3100 of the patient interface 3000 of this technology can be held in a sealed position during use by positioning and stabilizing structure 3300.

[0142] In one configuration, the positioning and stabilizing structure 3300 provides a holding force sufficient to overcome the positive pressure effect in the pneumatic chamber 3200 to lift the face away.

[0143] In one configuration, the positioning and stabilizing structure 3300 provides holding forces to overcome the effects of gravity on the patient interface 3000.

[0144] In one configuration, the positioning and stabilizing structure 3300 provides a holding force as a safety margin to overcome the potential impact of disturbance forces on the patient interface 3000, such as those from tube resistance or unintended interference with the patient interface.

[0145] In one form of this technology, a positioning and stabilization structure 3300 is provided, configured to be worn by a patient while sleeping. In one instance, the positioning and stabilization structure 3300 has a small profile or cross-sectional thickness to reduce the perceived or actual volume of the device. In one instance, the positioning and stabilization structure 3300 includes at least one strip with a rectangular cross-section. In one instance, the positioning and stabilization structure 3300 includes at least one flat strip.

[0146] Vent

[0147] In one embodiment, the patient interface 3000 includes a ventilation port 3400 that is configured and arranged to allow flushing of exhaled gases (e.g., carbon dioxide).

[0148] In some configurations, the vent 3400 is configured to allow continuous airflow from the interior of the pneumatic chamber 3200 to the environment, while the pressure within the pneumatic chamber is positive relative to the environment. The vent 3400 is configured such that the vent flow rate is sufficient to reduce the patient's rebreathing of exhaled CO2 while maintaining the therapeutic pressure within the pneumatic chamber during use.

[0149] One form of the vent 3400 according to the present technology includes a plurality of holes, for example, about 20 to about 80 holes, or about 40 to about 60 holes, or about 45 to about 55 holes.

[0150] Vent 3400 may be located in pneumatic chamber 3200. Alternatively, vent 3400 may be located in a decoupling structure, such as a rotary shaft.

[0151] In some forms, the airway is located in a part of the respiratory system other than the patient interface, such as the air circuit, between the air circuit and the patient interface, or between positioning and stabilizing structures, as described below.

[0152] The following describes in more detail certain forms of vents according to this technology.

[0153] Decoupling structure

[0154] In one form, the patient interface 3000 includes at least one decoupling structure, such as a spindle or a ball-and-socket joint.

[0155] Connection port

[0156] Connection port 3600 allows connection to air circuit 4170.

[0157] Forehead support

[0158] In one configuration, the patient interface 3000 includes a forehead support 3700.

[0159] Anti-suffocation valve

[0160] In one configuration, the patient interface 3000 includes an anti-asphyxiation valve.

[0161] port

[0162] In one embodiment of this technology, the patient interface 3000 includes one or more ports that allow access to a volume within the pneumatic chamber 3200. In one embodiment, this allows a clinician to supply supplemental oxygen. In another embodiment, this allows direct measurement of properties of the gas within the pneumatic chamber 3200, such as pressure.

[0163] RPT 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 perform one or more algorithms 4300, such as any methods, in whole or in part, described herein. The RPT device 4000 may be configured to generate an airflow for delivery to a patient's airway, such as for treating one or more respiratory conditions described elsewhere in this document.

[0165] air circuit

[0166] According to one aspect of the technology, the air circuit 4170 is a conduit or tube that is constructed and arranged to allow airflow to travel between two components (such as the RPT device 4000 and the patient interface 3000 or 3800) during use.

[0167] Vent

[0168] Ventilation port overview

[0169] Some forms of respiratory therapy systems may include an airway 3400 to allow flushing of exhaled gases, such as carbon dioxide. Exhausting gases from the respiratory therapy system may result in noise caused by the airflow through the airway 3400, which may disturb the patient 1000 and / or bed partner 1100.

[0170] The level and quality of noise generated by gas expulsion during inhalation may differ from those during exhalation. Noise is typically higher during exhalation because the exhaled air flows in the opposite direction to the air received from the RPT device 4000 and obstructs the air received from the RPT device 4000, creating turbulence and thus noise. The cyclical nature of the noise may be particularly undesirable.

[0171] Furthermore, the force of the airflow leaving the vent may disturb or make uncomfortable the patient 1000 and / or bed partner 1100. Airflow leaving the vent and directly entering the ambient air can also cause flow separation, especially at high speeds. Flow separation leads to increased turbulence in the airflow and thus generates noise. The faster the airflow leaving the vent, the greater the noise associated with the vent 3400. Therefore, slowing the airflow in the vent can reduce the noise associated with the vent 3400.

[0172] In some forms of this technology, the vent 3400 may be provided in the form of a ventilation structure 6000, which is provided to or included as part of a respiratory system. The vent 3400 may be configured to reduce noise generated by exhaust gases and / or reduce the velocity of airflow as it leaves the vent.

[0173] In some forms, the ventilated structure 6000 may be formed of a plastic material, such as polycarbonate, including forms made entirely of plastic materials. In some forms, the ventilated structure 6000 may be formed of a combination of different materials.

[0174] In some configurations, the ventilation structure 6000 may have the advantage of omitting any diffuser material, as is present in some existing ventilation ports, to reduce airflow jetting. Diffuser material is an additional component of the patient interface, thus increasing the cost and complexity of manufacturing, assembly, and use, and may require periodic cleaning and / or replacement.

[0175] In some forms of this technology, the respiratory system may include an additional ventilation structure 6000 in addition to the air vent 3400 for expelling exhaled gas. The additional ventilation structure 6000 may be used to reduce the airflow rate delivered from the RPT device 4000 to the patient 1000. The additional ventilation structure 6000 may be in the form of or included as part of a connecting member 7000, as described below, and may be positioned in a straight line with the air circuit 4170.

[0176] exist Figures 7A to 7F In the illustrated technical form, the ventilation structure has been designed to achieve a significant reduction in both the noise of the airflow through the vent and the force of the airflow leaving the vent under the following conditions: an exit velocity of approximately 11 to 12 L / min; a mask pressure of 10 cm H₂O; and a Reynolds number of approximately 1000. When designed for different conditions, the design of the ventilation structure, and particularly various aspects of its geometry, can be varied. The exit velocity of the airflow through the vent is determined to be approximately one-third of 36 L / min, which is one-third of the total velocity released from the respiratory system into the ambient air. This value is determined to balance maintaining a relatively low airflow through the vent to avoid significant noise with the requirement of exhausting air from the mask to prevent CO₂ buildup in the mask and patient rebreathing.

[0177] Location of ventilation structure

[0178] Connecting components

[0179] In some forms of this technology, the ventilation structure 6000 may be formed as part of the connecting member 7000. Figures 7A to 7F The diagram illustrates a connection member 7000 in certain forms according to the present technology. The connection member 7000 is configured to form part of a respiratory therapy system connecting an air circuit 4170 and a patient interface 3000. In some forms of the technology, this can be an indirect connection; for example, one or more additional components may be present connecting the connection member 7000 and the air circuit 4170 or the connection member 7000 and the patient interface 3000. In other forms, the connection member 7000 is directly connected to the air circuit 4170 and / or directly connected to the patient interface 3000. In this form of the technology, the connection member 7000 fluidly connects the air circuit 4170 to the patient interface 3000, i.e., it allows airflow from the air circuit 4170 to the patient interface 3000.

[0180] In some forms of this technology, the connecting member 7000 may be a separate component of the air circuit 4170 and / or the patient interface 3000, and may be separable from the air circuit 4170 and / or the patient interface 3000. In other forms of this technology, the air circuit 4170 or the patient interface 3000 includes the connecting member 7000.

[0181] In one embodiment, the connecting member 7000 may include a tube portion 7100 configured to directly or indirectly fluidly connect the air circuit 4170 to the patient interface 3000. The tube portion 7100 may be a hollow cylinder (i.e., having a circular cross-section) or an assembly forming a generally cylindrical shape through which an air path passes to deliver air directly or indirectly from the air circuit 4170 to the patient interface 3000. In other embodiments of the technology, the tube portion may have different cross-sectional shapes, such as elliptical, D-shaped, or polygonal. The tube portion 7100 may include a first end 7110 configured to directly or indirectly fluidly connect to the air circuit 4170 and a second end 7120 configured to directly or indirectly fluidly connect to the patient interface 3000.

[0182] The connecting member 7000 may also include a venting structure 6000 configured to allow air in the pipe section 7100 to exit into the ambient air. The following is about... Figures 7A to 7F A more detailed description of this type of ventilation structure 6000.

[0183] In one embodiment of this technology, the tube portion 7100 includes an outer tube portion 7130 and an inner tube portion 7140. The outer tube portion 7130 may be rotatable relative to the inner tube portion 7140 about a mutual longitudinal axis B. At least a portion of the inner tube portion 7140 is located within at least a portion of the outer tube portion 7130. Figure 7F As shown, the end stop 7150 can define the position of the inner tube portion 7140 and the outer tube portion 7130 relative to each other. The end stop 7150 can be in the form of a flange on one or both of the outer tube portion 7130 and the inner tube portion 7140. Other forms of the end stop 7150 can be provided in other forms of the present technology.

[0184] In one embodiment, the outer tube portion 7130 may include a first end 7110, i.e., the outer tube portion 7130 may be configured to connect to the air circuit 4170, and the inner tube portion 7140 may include a second end 7120, i.e., the inner tube portion 7140 may be configured to connect to the patient interface 3000. In other embodiments, the outer tube portion 7130 may include a second end 7120, and the inner tube portion 7140 includes a first end 7110. Connections of the first end 7110 and / or the second end 7120 to the air circuit 4170 and / or the patient interface 3000 or to intermediate components (e.g., catheters of other lengths) therebetween may be achieved via decoupling arrangements including ball-and-socket or swivel ring arrangements. Alternatively, these connections may be detachably connected via clip arrangements, screw and thread arrangements, or snap-fit ​​arrangements. In some embodiments of this technology, the first end 7110 and / or the second end 7120 may be integrally formed with another component (e.g., a portion of the air circuit 4170 or the patient interface 3000).

[0185] Avoid positioning the vent 3400 on the patient interface 3000, for example, between the air circuit 4170 and the patient interface 3000, as this increases the distance between the patient 1000 and the vent 3400. This helps reduce the noise of the exhaust gas perceived by the patient.

[0186] Patient Interface

[0187] In some forms of this technology, the patient interface 3000, including the pneumatic chamber 3200 and the sealing formation structure 3100 as described above, may also include a ventilation structure 6000, as described below. Figures 8A to 8D The ventilation structure 6000 allows a continuous flow of air exhaled by the patient 1000 from inside the pneumatic chamber to be discharged into the environment. The size and shape of the ventilation structure 6000 are preferably designed to maintain the treatment pressure within the pneumatic chamber 3200 during use. In these forms, the ventilation structure 6000 can be constructed and arranged in a geometry particularly suited to the patient interface 3000.

[0188] In some forms of this technology, when the patient 1000 wears the patient interface 3000, the ventilation structure 6000 is provided to a portion of the pneumatic chamber 3200, for example, a portion on the front side of the pneumatic chamber 3200.

[0189] Ventilation structure

[0190] Ventilation shell

[0191] In some forms of this technology, the ventilation structure 6000 includes a ventilation housing 6100. The ventilation housing 6100 may include one or more components that collectively define one or more flow paths 6110 for exhausting an airflow from the respiratory system. The ventilation housing 6100 may also define an ventilation inlet 6120 and a ventilation outlet 6130, the ventilation inlet 6120 being configured to allow an airflow to be exhausted into the flow path 6110, and the ventilation outlet 6130 being configured to allow an airflow to be exhausted out of the flow path into ambient air. The flow path 6110 fluidly connects the ventilation inlet 6120 to the ventilation outlet 6130. The flow path 6110 typically has a length substantially greater than the width or height of the flow path.

[0192] It should be understood that, in this technical form, the flow path 6110 is a space formed within or partially formed within the vent housing 6100. Therefore, the shape and configuration of the flow path 6110 are determined by the shape and configuration of the vent housing 6100, particularly those portions of the vent housing 6100 that contact the flow path 6110. In this specification, when referring to the shape and / or configuration of the flow path 6110, it should be understood that this shape / configuration is provided by the shape / configuration of the vent housing 6100 that defines the flow path 6110.

[0193] In some forms of this technology, the vent housing 6100 includes multiple partitions 6115 that form multiple flow paths 6110 therebetween. All flow paths 6110 may have a similar form. For example, Figures 7A to 7D The connecting member 7000 shown has cylindrical symmetry, and each of the flow paths 6110 is similarly symmetrical around the circumference of the cylindrical shape. In another example, Figures 8A to 8D The flow paths 6110 within the patient interface 3000 shown are similar to each other and arranged parallel to each other. For the purposes of the following description, while a single flow path 6110 will be described in detail, it should be understood that this description may also apply to other flow paths 6110 (if any).

[0194] In the technical form in which the ventilation structure 6000 forms part of the connecting member 7000, as described above, the separator can be formed as part of the inner tube portion 7140 and / or the outer tube portion 7130.

[0195] The vent housing 6100 may include one or more features, such as those described in later sections, that help reduce noise from the airflow through the vent structure 6000.

[0196] Connecting components

[0197] As explained in some forms of this technology, the ventilation structure 6000 may be included as part of the connecting member 7000, for example, Figures 7A to 7F As shown. Therefore, in some forms, the vent housing 6100 can be included as part of the connecting member 7000.

[0198] In this form, the vent housing 6100 may be formed of, or included as part of, a tube portion 7100. In some forms, the vent housing 6100 may be formed of, or included as part of, an outer tube portion 7130 and an inner tube portion 7140, wherein the outer and inner tube portions are arranged coaxially with the outer tube portion 7130 and are generally radially outside the inner tube portion 7140. That is, these tube components help define the flow path 6110 of the vent 3400. One advantage of the vent housing 6100 including the outer tube portion 7130 and the inner tube portion 7140 is that the two tube portions can be arranged to be rotatable relative to each other, such that components attached to each end (e.g., different portions of the air circuit 4170) can be rotated longitudinally relative to each other.

[0199] In this configuration, the vent inlet 6120 may be positioned closer to the first end 7110 of the connecting member 7000 than the vent outlet, and the vent outlet 6130 may be positioned closer to the second end 7120 of the connecting member 7000 than the vent inlet. In other configurations, the vent inlet 6120 may be positioned closer to the second end 7120 and the vent outlet 6130 may be positioned closer to the first end 7110.

[0200] exist Figures 7A to 7F In the illustrated configuration, the vent housing 6100 is configured such that each flow path 6110 includes at least a portion oriented substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis B of the connecting member 7000. In the configuration where the connecting member 7000 includes an outer tube portion 7130 and an inner tube portion 7140, each flow path 6110 may have a portion arranged substantially parallel to the longitudinal axes of the two tube portions (i.e., the mutual longitudinal axes B). In some configurations, the flow path 6110 may be formed entirely within the vent housing 6100, for example, entirely within the outer tube portion 7130, entirely within the inner tube portion 7140, or between the outer tube portion 7130 and the inner tube portion 7140. Additionally, as will be discussed below, each flow path 6110 may include at least one portion oriented at an angle not parallel to the longitudinal axis of the connecting member 7000.

[0201] Other features of the ventilation housing 6100 of this technical form will be described below with reference to the features of certain forms of ventilation structure 6000 of this technology, wherein the ventilation housing 6100 is included as part of the connecting member 7000.

[0202] Patient Interface

[0203] In other forms of this technology, for example, Figures 8A to 8D As shown, the ventilation housing 6100 can be included as part of the patient interface 3000. In this form, the ventilation housing 6100 can be included as part of the pneumatic chamber 3200, or can be provided to the pneumatic chamber 3200. Figures 8A to 8D In one example, two ventilation housings 6100 are provided on either side of the patient interface 3000.

[0204] exist Figure 8A and Figure 8B In this example, each vent housing 6100 is a component separate from the parts (e.g., a frame) forming the pneumatic chamber 3200. Each vent housing 6100 has a first end 6102 and a second end 6104. The first end 6102 is configured to be fluidly connected to an opening on the outside of the pneumatic chamber 3200. In the illustrated form, the first end 6102 includes an opening for a tube mounted to the outside of the pneumatic chamber 3200, for example, via a friction fit or snap-fit. The second end 6104 extends away from the pneumatic chamber 3200 and includes a connector 6106 configured to connect in use to a positioning and stabilizing structure 3300. For example, the connector 6106 may take the form of a ring or a clip.

[0205] exist Figure 8C and Figure 8D In this example, a vent housing 6100 is provided to the surface of the pneumatic chamber 3200. The vent housing 6100 and the flow path 6110 can be configured to conform to the overall shape, i.e., curvature, of the pneumatic chamber 3200. The vent housing 6100 can be formed by one or more walls of the pneumatic chamber 3200, or it can be formed by an insert provided to one or more walls of the pneumatic chamber 3200. Figure 8C and Figure 8D In the illustrated embodiment, the ventilation structure 6000 is provided to the front wall of the pneumatic chamber 3200 in the lateral region. In another embodiment, the ventilation structure 6000 may be provided to the inner region of the pneumatic chamber 3200.

[0206] Shape of the flow path

[0207] In some forms of this technology, the vent housing 6100 is configured such that each flow path 6110 includes a curved turning region 6200, wherein the flow path 6110 changes direction by at least 90°. The turning region 6200 generally refers to the area of ​​the flow path in which the change of direction occurs. The turning region 6200 is curved, thereby allowing the air flowing through this region to smoothly change direction. For example, in some forms, the turning region does not include any abrupt change of angle or direction. This can be mathematically described as the gradient of the wall of the curved turning region being a continuous function.

[0208] The flow path 6110, including the deflection region 6200 that changes the direction of airflow through the vent, offers several advantages. Due to friction between the air and the walls of the flow path, the airflow velocity along the flow path is reduced. Therefore, generally speaking, the longer the flow path, the larger the surface area of ​​the flow path in contact with the airflow, and the greater the reduction in airflow velocity due to friction. However, there are limitations to the length of flow paths that can be practically implemented in components within a respiratory therapy system without compromising the compactness and ease of use of the components. Changing the direction of the flow path 6110 allows it to be longer than in other cases without significantly increasing the length of the components including the vent housing 6100.

[0209] The amount of noise generated when air is expelled from the ventilation structure of a respiratory therapy system is related to the velocity of the expelled air. Generally, more noise is generated when air is expelled at a higher velocity. Therefore, reducing the velocity of the expelled air reduces the amount of noise generated by the ventilation opening.

[0210] The ability to increase the length of the flow path 6110 without increasing the length of the ventilation housing 6100 allows for a relatively compact ventilation design while also reducing noise generated by ventilation. This compact vent design is particularly advantageous when the ventilation structure 6000 forms part of a rigid component, in which case a shorter rigid component would reduce the overall rigidity of the mask system. The compact vent design also reduces the weight of the vent and thus improves patient comfort.

[0211] In some forms of this technology, the turning angle in the turning region 6200 can be anywhere between substantially 90° and a turn that changes the direction of the flow path to substantially the opposite direction. In some forms of this technology, the longitudinal cross-section of the flow path 6110 is substantially U-shaped due to the turning region 6200. For example, in some forms, the turning angle can be substantially 180°. Generally, the larger the turning angle, the greater the reduction in airflow velocity and the greater the kinetic energy consumed, resulting in less noise. The appropriate angle of the turning region 6200 can depend on the nature of the airflow through the flow path 6110. For example, if the airflow velocity or speed entering the flow path 6110 is low, a smaller angle of directional change is sufficient.

[0212] exist Figures 7A to 7F In the illustrated technical form, the ventilation structure is included as part of the connecting member 7000. In the exemplary illustrated form, each flow path is configured such that air enters the flow path through a ventilation inlet 6120 near a first end 7110 of the connecting member 7000 and flows in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis B of the connecting member 7000 through a portion of the flow path 6110 upstream of the turning region 6200. Figure 7F In the illustrated technical form, this portion of each flow path 6110 is formed as a hole through the outer tube portion 7130.

[0213] In the turning region 6200, there is a change in the direction of the flow path 6110, which causes the air flowing through this flow path to be turned away from the central axis B of the pipe section 7100. In some forms, the turning region 6200 is configured to continue to turn the airflow, and as... Figure 7F As shown, the flow path 6110 changes direction at a substantially 180° angle before exhausting air through the ventilation outlet 6130. Therefore, the airflow exiting the ventilation outlet 6130 flows in a direction substantially parallel to the outer surface of the outer tube portion 7130 and parallel to the longitudinal axis B of the connecting member 7000. In some forms, the turning region 6200 is configured such that the direction of the air exiting the ventilation outlet 6130 forms an angle greater than 180° with the angle of the air passing through the ventilation inlet 6120, i.e., causing the air exiting the ventilation outlet 6130 to flow towards the outer surface of the outer tube portion 7130. Exhausting the airflow exiting the ventilation structure 6000 in a direction parallel to or slightly towards the outer wall of the connecting member 7000 avoids exhausting air towards the patient 1000 or bed partner 1100 and causing discomfort. Due to the Coanda effect, the airflow leaving the ventilation structure 6000 can also be a small turbulence, which causes the airflow to remain close to the tube section 7100 after leaving the vent.

[0214] exist Figure 7F In the illustrated embodiment, a portion of each flow path 6110 downstream of the turning region 6200 is formed between the outer surface of the outer tube portion 7130 and the inner surface of the flange 7145, which is included as part of the inner tube portion 7140. Although included as part of the inner tube portion 7140, the flange 7145 extends radially outside the outer tube portion 7130 from the perspective of the cylindrical geometry of the connecting member 7000. In the illustrated embodiment, the flange 7145 extends radially outward from the body of the inner tube portion 7140, near the second end 7120 of the tube portion 7100, and bends downward toward the first end 7110 of the tube portion 7100, such that the distal end of the flange 7145 (and most of the flange body) is radially positioned outside the outer tube portion 7130. This configuration means that the inner path surface 6300 on the inside of the curved flow path 6110 is the surface of the outer tube portion 7130, and the outer path surface 6400 on the outside of the curved flow path 6110 is the surface of the inner tube portion 7140.

[0215] exist Figures 8A to 8C In the illustrated embodiment, the ventilation structure 6000 is included as part of or provided to the pneumatic chamber 3200. The flow path 6110 includes a ventilation inlet 6120 on the inner surface of the pneumatic chamber 3200, which is oriented substantially parallel to the front wall of the pneumatic chamber 3200. In the illustrated embodiment, after entering through the ventilation inlet 6120, air flows laterally along the flow path 6110, i.e., away from the central region of the patient interface 3000 (e.g., the region including the connection port 3600). A bend deflection region 6200 causes the air flowing through the flow path 6110 to return in an inward direction, causing the air to exit through the ventilation outlet 6130 and flow towards the central region of the patient interface, e.g., towards the conduit connected to the connection port 3600 in the central front region of the patient interface 3000.

[0216] exist Figure 8D In the illustrated form, the ventilation structure 6000 is located in the front wall of the pneumatic chamber 3200, transverse to the central connection port 3600 (and a similar ventilation structure 6000 may be located on the other side of the patient interface 3000, but not shown), similar to... Figure 8C The ventilation structure 6000 is arranged in the opposite direction. That is, air flows into the ventilation inlet 6120 in the inward direction and exits the ventilation outlet 6130 in the lateral direction.

[0217] Cross-sectional shape of the turning area

[0218] In a technical embodiment where the vent housing includes a curved turning region 6200, the vent housing 6100 includes an inner path surface 6300 on the inner side of the curved flow path 6110 and an outer path surface 6400 on the outer side of the curved flow path 6110. In some embodiments of this technology, the inner path surface 6300 in the turning region 6200 has an arcuate or curved cross-sectional shape. In some embodiments, only a portion of the inner path surface 6300 in the turning region 6200 may have this type of cross-sectional shape; that is, a portion of the inner path surface 6300 in the turning region 6200 may also take another form, such as a curved segment of another shape.

[0219] For example, in Figure 7F , Figure 8B , Figure 8C and Figure 8D In the technical embodiment shown, the portion 6210 of the turning area has an arc-shaped cross-sectional shape.

[0220] This shape helps prevent the airflow through the turning region 6200 from separating or detaching from the inner surface 6400 of the flow path 6110. Such flow separation / detachment can increase turbulence in the airflow through the flow path, which can result in additional noise generated by the vent during use.

[0221] Cross-sectional shape of the ventilation structure

[0222] In some forms of the technology where the ventilation housing includes a curved turning region 6200, the inner path surface 6300 of the ventilation housing 6100 has a cross-sectional shape in the form of a part of an airfoil or similar to a part of an airfoil. An airfoil or wing surface is a cross-sectional shape with a curved surface, commonly used in the wings, flaps, and tails of aircraft to generate lift when moving through a fluid. A typical characteristic of an airfoil is that air flows smoothly across its surface without generating turbulence or air separation. By configuring the inner path surface 6300 with a cross-sectional shape resembling an airfoil, this characteristic has beneficial effects on the ventilation structure in a respiratory therapy system. For example, this airfoil shape (specifically, the relatively high length-to-drag ratio of such shapes compared to other shapes) generates a low level of air separation as air flows through the surface or wall forming the flow path 6110. This reduces the turbulence generated in the airflow and reduces the noise generated by the airflow through the flow path 6110.

[0223] It should be understood that there are many different cross-sectional shapes that can be considered as wings. In some forms, the cross-sectional shape of the inner path surface 6300 may not have the exact shape of any particular wing, but may have a wing-like curved shape that provides the advantage of generating low-level turbulence, as mentioned above. The shape of the inner path surface 6300 can be modified from some wing shapes, for example, having a shape that is easier to process and manufacture.

[0224] Furthermore, the wing shape forms a closed loop, meaning that a surface on one side of the wing intersects with a surface on the other side at the leading and trailing edges. In this form of technology, the inner path surface 6300 does not form such a closed loop. The inner path surface 6300 may include points equivalent to the wing's leading edge, which form part of the curved steering region 6200. In some forms, the inner path surface 6300 does not include points equivalent to the wing's trailing edge. However, the shape of a portion of the wing-like inner path surface 6300 will be described with reference to wing terminology, as if a full wing profile were present.

[0225] By adjusting the cross-sectional shape of the ventilation structure 6000, for example by adjusting the airfoil shape, the point along the flow path 6110 where the airflow transitions from turbulent to laminar flow can be altered. In some configurations, it is desirable to configure the cross-sectional shape such that this transition point is as far away as possible from the ventilation outlet 6130. This helps to reduce the amount of noise generated within the flow path 6110 that propagates to the ventilation outlet 6130, and is therefore particularly audible. With this in mind, experiments with different cross-sectional shapes can be used to identify a suitable cross-sectional shape.

[0226] exist Figure 7F In the illustrated embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of the inner path surface 6300 includes a longitudinally flat region 6310 upstream of the turning region 6200. Downstream of the turning region 6200, the inner path surface 6300 includes a curved region 6320 having a smooth curvature without indentations. Figure 7F As shown, the curved region 6320 continues after the vent outlet 6130, but does not continue indefinitely to intersect with the longitudinally flat region 6310 to form a trailing edge like a typical wing shape. Therefore, the inner path surface 6300 does not form the entire wing shape, but rather a part of it. Figure 8C and Figure 8D The inner path surface 6300 of the technical form shown can be considered closer to a “full” wing shape because the vent housing 6100 is relatively thin in the region away from the leading edge in the bending and turning region 6200.

[0227] like Figure 7FAs shown, if the wing-shaped portion of the surface extends to form a closed loop, the wing-shaped portion of the inner path surface 6300 defines a chord line C, i.e., the straight-line distance between the trailing and leading edges of the wing-shaped portion. The chord line can have a chord length of at least 50 mm, for example, 54 mm. For the reasons discussed above, a small chord length may be required to provide a compact vent design. In some forms of this technology, an alternative way to describe the chord length is by a length defined by a straight-line distance, which, if the curved region 6320 extends along its trajectory to intersect with a straight line, begins at a first point 6330 on the inner path surface 6300 furthest from the vent inlet 6120 and extends to a second point 6340 furthest from the first point 6330. In technical forms where the vent structure 6000 is in the form of a connecting member 7000, such as... Figure 7F As shown, the chord length can be substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis B of the tube section.

[0228] According to this technology, the wing-like shape of the inner path surface 6300 has a maximum thickness region 6350. This region is... Figure 7F The technique illustrated is shown as being positioned along the chord C at a distance D from the wing leading edge. In some forms of this technique, the distance D is between 25% and 40% of the chord length. For example, in techniques with a chord length of approximately 50 to 54 mm, the distance D along the chord to the maximum thickness region 6350 ranges from 12.5 mm to 22 mm, and in some forms, it is 13.5 mm. This has been found to effectively keep the turbulence generated by the flow path at a low level and achieve a satisfactory balance between diffusivity and noise.

[0229] An alternative description of the region with the maximum thickness 6350 is the region on the inner path surface 6300, where the vertical distance between the longitudinally flat region 6310 and the curved region 6320 is the greatest.

[0230] like Figure 7F , Figure 8C and Figure 8DAs shown, in some forms of this technology, the vent outlet 6130 is located downstream of the maximum thickness region 6350. Therefore, in these forms, the outer path surface 6400 at least covers the inner path surface 6300 to the maximum thickness region 6350. It has been found that this arrangement is effective in preventing fluid separation when fluid leaves the flow path 6110, which can lead to turbulence and increase noise levels. In some forms of this technology, flow separation can occur at a point along the flow path 6110 adjacent to and downstream of the maximum thickness region 6350. The vent outlet 6130 can be located at a distance I passing through the point where flow separation occurs. Distance I can be a length between one and two times the width of the maximum thickness region 6350. In some forms of this technology, distance I can range from 6 mm to 12 mm. Therefore, the outer path surface 6400 covers the inner path surface 6300 beyond distance I of the maximum thickness region 6350 in these forms.

[0231] Width of the flow path

[0232] In some forms of this technology, the width E of the flow path 6110 at the turning region 6200 and in the region downstream of the turning region 6200 is large enough to prevent water droplets in the airflow from clogging the flow path 6110, while being small enough to regulate the flow rate. The width E is illustrated by examples in... Figure 7F The technical form shown is labeled accordingly. The region downstream of the turning region is also described as the aforementioned curved region 6320. The region downstream of the turning region 6200, having the stated width, can be the region between the turning region 6200 and a point on a flow path aligned with the maximum thickness region 6350 of the airfoil shape. In some forms of this technology, the width of the flow path 6110 can be in the range of 0.75 mm to 1.5 mm. It has been found that a flow path 6110 width of at least 0.75 mm prevents water droplets in the airflow from clogging the flow path 6110. The flow rate can be adjusted using a maximum width of 1.5 mm for the flow path 6110. In some forms, the width of the flow path 6110 can be at least 0.85 mm, as it has been experimentally found that this width represents a particularly good balance between the competing considerations of the width of the flow path 6110 explained above.

[0233] In some forms of this technology, the width E of the flow path 6110 at the turning region 6200 can be the minimum width of the flow path 6110 along its length. Therefore, the width E of the flow path 6110 at the turning region 6200 can be described as the minimum distance of the gap between the inner path surface 6300 and the outer path surface 6400.

[0234] exist Figure 8A and Figure 8BIn the illustrated embodiment, the vent 6120 is significantly wider than the width of each flow path 6110 over most of its length. The width of the vent 6120 allows it to receive air from the wide connectors 6016 on each side of the pneumatic chamber 3200; however, it will be understood that in other embodiments where the connectors have different widths, the vent 6120 may also have correspondingly different widths. In the illustrated embodiment, the vent 6120 tapers to a narrower flow path 6110 in the turning region 6200, for example, tapering to a width of approximately 0.85 mm. The smooth inner wall of the vent housing 6100 promotes low-turbulence flow through the flow paths to maintain a low noise level. In this embodiment, each flow path 6110 downstream of the turning region 6200 bends around the tapered vent 6120, allowing air to exit from the vent outlet 6130 in a direction substantially opposite to the direction in which air flows into the vent 6120.

[0235] Opening angle at the vent outlet

[0236] In some forms of this technology, the inner path surface 6300 of the vent housing 6100 at the vent outlet 6130 and the outer path surface 6400 of the vent housing 6100 at the vent outlet 6130 define an opening angle. In these forms, the opening angle is the angle between these surfaces at the vent outlet 6130 when the flow path 6110 is viewed in cross-section along its length. Figure 7F In the illustrated technical forms, the opening angle is denoted as angle F. In some forms, the opening angle is small enough to help reduce air detachment and turbulence leaving the vent outlet 6130, and thus reduce noise generation to a desired level. In some forms, the opening angle is substantially 10° or less. In some forms, such as the one illustrated, the opening angle is substantially 7° or less. It has been found that an opening angle of 7° or less helps reduce air detachment and turbulence leaving the vent outlet 6130, and thus reduces noise generation.

[0237] exist Figure 7F In the illustrated technical configuration, if the outer path surface 6400 is oriented approximately parallel to the longitudinal axis B of the tube portion 7100, the small opening angle between the inner path surface 6300 and the outer path surface 6400 at the ventilation outlet 6130 helps direct airflow leaving the ventilation outlet 6130 toward the inner path surface 6300. As previously explained, this helps reduce patient disturbance by maintaining airflow close to the air circuit 4170.

[0238] Ventilation shell parameters and flow conditions

[0239] As already described, the ventilation housing 6100 may include one or more features that contribute to reducing noise in the airflow through the ventilation structure 6000. Various parameters relating to these features are mentioned by way of example. Features of the ventilation housing 6100 and parameters applied to these features can be selected to achieve a desired level of noise reduction for the types of flow conditions the device may encounter. Flow conditions can encompass, for example, the velocity of airflow through a respiratory therapy system (and therefore the ventilation structure 6000).

[0240] In other forms of this technology, including those operating under different flow conditions, one or more characteristics and / or parameters of the ventilation structure 6000 can be modified to provide the ventilation structure to achieve desired results, such as achieving a desired airflow rate while achieving a desired noise level.

[0241] Noise attenuation structure

[0242] In some forms of this technology, for example, Figures 7A to 7F As shown, the venting structure 6000 is included as part of the connecting member 7000 as described above. As described above, the connecting member may include a vent housing 6100. The vent housing 6100 may include an outer tube portion 7130 and an inner tube portion 7140 as previously described. In some forms, a portion of each of the flow paths 6110 may be formed by a portion of the gap 7220 between the outer tube portion 7130 and the inner tube portion 7140. However, in some forms, the airflow through this gap 7220 may be considered undesirable because it may be difficult to control the tolerance of the gap 7220 between the tube portions to produce a flow path with the desired form. Therefore, in other forms, for example... Figures 7A to 7F As shown, the outer tube portion 7130 may define only a portion of the flow path 6110, such as a portion of the flow path 6110 upstream of the turning region 6200.

[0243] In this configuration, the outer tube portion 7130 extends further at the first end 7110 of the tube portion 7100 than the inner tube portion 7140 at the same end. An air inlet 6120 is formed in the inner wall of a portion of the outer tube portion 7130, which is flush with or extends further than the end of the inner tube portion 7140, such that the air inlet 6120 is exposed within the tube portion 7100 and allows airflow from within the inner tube portion 7140 into the flow path 6110.

[0244] exist Figures 7A to 7FIn the illustrated technical form, the first flow path portion is defined only by the portion of the flow path 6110 defined by the outer tube portion 7130, and is formed in part by the longitudinally flat region 6310 of the inner path surface 6300 upstream of the turning region 6200 as described above. Therefore, the first flow path portion can be substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis B of the connecting member 7000.

[0245] Each flow path 6110 may further include a second flow path portion defined between the inner tube portion 7140 and the outer tube portion 7130. The second flow path portion is located downstream of the first flow path portion, such that the second flow path portion receives the airflow from the first flow path portion and delivers the airflow to the vent outlet 6130. Figure 7B The diagram shows openings at the ends of the first flow path portion that allow discharged gas to enter the second flow path portion. These openings may be formed in the end region of the inner tube portion 7140 near the second end 7120 of the connecting member. The second flow path portion may include a turning region 6200 and a portion of the flow path 6110 downstream of the turning region 6200, such as the aforementioned bend region 6320.

[0246] Ideally, the discharged gas flows along the first flow path portion, along the second flow path portion, through the flow path, i.e., through the vent inlet 6120, and then out of the vent inlet 6130. However, a gap 7220 may exist between the outer tube portion 7130 and the inner tube portion 7140 (so that the outer tube portion 7130 can rotate relative to the inner tube portion 7140, as explained above), and the gap 7220 may be fluidly connected to the flow path 6110. Therefore, the second flow path portion may also receive air from the gap 7220 between the outer tube portion 7130 and the inner tube portion 7140.

[0247] The ventilation structure 6000 may also include a noise reduction structure 7200 for reducing noise generated by the airflow through the gap 7220 between the outer tube portion 7130 and the inner tube portion 7140.

[0248] In one form, for example in Figure 7F In the illustrated form of the technology, the noise attenuation structure 7200 includes portions of an inner tube portion 7140 and / or an outer tube portion 7130, which are configured to form a sound attenuation chamber 7210 in a gap 7220 between the inner tube portion 7140 and the outer tube portion 7130. The sound attenuation chamber 7210 can be a region of the gap 7220 having a larger cross-sectional area than adjacent regions of the gap 7220. The sound attenuation chamber 7210 is arranged to reflect sound waves during use and attenuate the sound of airflow passing through the gap 7220. Figures 7A to 7F In the illustrated embodiment, multiple sound attenuation chambers 7210 are located at different positions on the circumference of the gap 7220 surrounding the connecting member 7000. The sound attenuation chambers 7210 can possess the characteristics of a broadband silencer.

[0249] In some forms, the noise attenuation structure 7200 includes portions of an inner tube portion 7140 and / or an outer tube portion 7130 configured to form a stepped region 7230 in the gap 7220 between the inner tube portion 7140 and the outer tube portion 7130. The stepped region 7230 may be a region in which the flow path 6110 makes two turns of approximately 90°, one turn in the opposite direction to the other. The stepped region 7230 has the effect of reducing the kinetic energy of the airflow flowing through it, resulting in reduced velocity and less turbulent mixing as the airflow leaves the gap 7220, and thus generating less noise.

[0250] The stepped region 7230 may be located at the sound attenuation chamber 7210, such that the entrance of the sound attenuation chamber 7210 is offset from the exit of the sound attenuation chamber 7210. Alternatively, the stepped region 7230 may be separate from or replace the sound attenuation chamber 7210. Figures 7A to 7F In the illustrated embodiment, the noise attenuation structure 7200 is located near the end stop 7150. The stepped region 7230 may be partially formed by the corner portion of the end stop 7150.

[0251] Flow suppressor

[0252] In a technical embodiment where the connecting member 7000 includes a venting structure 6000, the connecting member 7000 may include a flow suppressor (not shown) to suppress the exit of air from the inner tube portion 7140 into the ambient air by airflow through the gap 7220 between the inner tube portion 7140 and the outer tube portion 7130. The flow suppressor can reduce any noise generated by the airflow through the gap 7220 between the inner tube portion 7140 and the outer tube portion 7130.

[0253] In one embodiment, the flow suppressor includes an annular seal positioned to substantially block airflow through the opening to the gap 7220 between the inner tube portion 7140 and the outer tube portion 7130. For example, the annular seal may be positioned within a tube portion 7100 that abuts the surfaces of the inner tube portion 7140 and the outer tube portion 7130, forming an opening to the gap 7220 between these surfaces.

[0254] In some forms, the flow suppressor may be formed of a flexible material, such as silicone or rubber. In some forms, the flow suppressor may be a frictional fit or interference fit between the inner tube portion 7140 and the outer tube portion 7130. In other forms of the technology, the flow suppressor may include a snap-fit ​​connection between the inner tube portion 7140 and / or the outer tube portion 7130. In other forms of the technology, the flow suppressor may be adhered to or integrally formed with the inner tube portion 7140 and / or the outer tube portion 7130.

[0255] curved airflow path

[0256] Figure 9A The illustration depicts another form of the ventilation structure 6000 forming part of the connecting member 7000. The connecting member 7000 is configured to directly or indirectly fluidly connect an air circuit 4170 to a patient interface 3000 and includes several components, including a tube portion 7100 and a ventilation structure 6000 for discharging air from the internal volume of the tube portion 7100. The tube portion 7100 includes a first end 7110 configured to directly or indirectly fluidly connect to the air circuit 4170 and a second end 7120 configured to directly or indirectly connect to the patient interface 3000. The tube portion also includes an inner tube portion 7140 and an outer tube portion 7130. In some forms of the above-described technology, the ventilation structure includes a ventilation housing 6100. The ventilation structure 6000 also includes multiple flow paths 6110 and multiple separators 6115 formed therebetween.

[0257] The vent housing 6100 includes at least a portion of the tube portion 7100. Figure 9A In the illustrated embodiment, the flow path 6110 is essentially formed along the entire length of the tubular portion 7100 between the inner tubular portion 7140 and the outer tubular portion 7130. In other embodiments of this technology, the ventilation housing 6100 includes only a portion of the tubular portion 7100; for example, the flow path may extend only a portion of the length of the tubular portion 7100. In some embodiments of this technology, the ventilation housing 6100 may include a central portion of the tubular portion 7100, with end portions of the tubular portion 7100 configured to connect to other components of the respiratory therapy system, such as the air circuit 4170 or the patient interface 3000. The ventilation housing 6100 may include one or more additional components that, together with a portion of the tubular portion 7100, form the ventilation housing 6100.

[0258] exist Figure 9AIn the illustrated embodiment, the separator 6115 is formed as part of the inner tube portion 7140. In other embodiments of the technology, the separator may be formed on the inner surface of the outer tube portion 7130. In other embodiments of the technology, the separator may be formed as part of one or more separation components positioned between the inner tube portion 7140 and the outer tube portion 7130 to form a flow path 6110.

[0259] exist Figure 9A In the technical form shown, the separators are evenly distributed around the tube portion 7110.

[0260] As described above, each of the flow paths 6110 includes a ventilation inlet 6120 configured to receive an airflow and a ventilation outlet 6130 configured to allow the airflow to exit into the ambient air. Figure 9A In the illustrated configuration, each vent 6120 is formed as a space between an inner tube portion 7140, an outer tube portion 7130, and two separators 6115, and each vent is configured to receive air from within the tube portion 7100. In other forms of this technology, the vent 6120 may be formed entirely by the inner tube portion 7140, for example, as an opening in the inner tube portion 7140. Figure 9A In one embodiment, the vent inlet 6120 is located at the first end 7110 of the tube portion 7100. In other embodiments, the vent inlet 6120 may be formed at the second end 7120 of the tube portion 7100. In still other embodiments, the vent inlet 6120 may be formed in the intermediate region of the tube portion 7100 between the first and second ends. Figure 9A In the illustrated embodiment, the vent outlet 6130 is located at the end of the flow path 6110 opposite to the vent inlet 6120, and is formed by the outer tube portion 7130 as described below. In other forms of this technology, the vent outlet 6130 may be located between the inner tube portion 7140 and the outer tube portion 7130 and at the end of the tube portion 7100 opposite to the vent inlet 6120.

[0261] In this form of technology, a portion of the flow path 6110 is curved around the tube portion 7100, meaning the flow path 6110 follows a curved path across a generally cylindrical surface of a portion of the tube portion 7100 (e.g., across the outer surface of the inner tube portion 7140). By making a portion of the flow path 6110 curved around the tube portion 7100, the length of the flow path 6110 is increased compared to a flow path having a straight path in the longitudinal direction along the outer surface of the tube portion 7100, without significantly increasing the length of the connecting member 7000 to achieve this length. The advantages of increasing the length of the flow path 6110 have been discussed in detail above, but overall it helps to reduce noise generated by exhaust air.

[0262] exist Figure 9A In this configuration, multiple separators 6115 are configured such that a first portion 6500 of the flow path 6110 bends around the circumference of the inner tube portion 7140 and also extends longitudinally along the length of the inner tube portion 7140 (but at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the tube portion). The first portion 6500 of the flow path 6110 may have two ends 6510 and 6520, with the first end 6510 located at the vent inlet 6120 and the second end 6520 located before the turning area, as will be described below. In other forms of this technology, the vent outlet 6130 may be located at the second end 6520; that is, the flow path 6110 may consist only of the first portion 6500 and may not include the turning area. Each of the first portions 6500 of the flow path 6110 bends in the same direction and follows a similar shape. This ensures that the flow paths 6110 remain separate and do not overlap with adjacent flow paths 6110. Therefore, the first portion 6500 of the flow path can maintain a substantially constant distance between the separators 6115 along the entire length of the flow path 6110. This can also be described as a flow path 6110 or separator 6115 with a constant width. Figure 9A In this configuration, the first portion 6500 forms a spiral or substantially spiral shape around the tube portion 7100. When viewed from the first end 7110, the flow path 6110 bends clockwise around the tube portion 7100. In other forms of this technology, the flow path 6110 may bend in the opposite direction, i.e., bend counterclockwise when viewed from the first end 7110, or form a spiral shape around the tube portion 7100. Figure 9A The opposite shape shown is another shape, such as a zigzag, a snake, or other spiral shape, which results in an increase in the length of the flow path 6110 along the pipe portion 7100.

[0263] exist Figure 9A In this process, due to the shape of the flow path 6110 surrounding the tube portion 7100, the ends 6510, 6520 of the first portion 6500 of each flow path 6110 are circumferentially offset from each other around the tube portion 7100. In other words, due to the curvature in the flow path 6110, the ends 6510, 6520 are located at different positions around the circumference of the tube portion 7100. In other forms of this technology, the vent outlet 6130 is located at the second end 6520, which causes the vent inlet 6120 and the vent outlet 6130 to be circumferentially offset around the tube portion 7100. In some forms of this technology, the first portion 6500 of the flow path 6110 may be curved around the tube portion 7100, such that the ends 6510, 6520 are circumferentially aligned. In other words, the ends 6510, 6520 are located at the same position around the circumference of the tube portion 7100.

[0264] In some forms (including) Figure 9A In the form illustrated, the connecting member 7000 may further include a deflection region 6200 to change the direction of the airflow to substantially the opposite direction and further lengthen the flow path 6110, as described above. The deflection region 6200 may include one or more of the various features discussed above in sections 4.6.3.2 (“Shape of the Flow Path”) and 4.6.3.3 (“Width of the Flow Path”).

[0265] The turning region 6200 can be located downstream of the first portion 6500 of the flow path 6110. Figure 9A In the illustrated form, there is no separator 6115 downstream of the first portion 6500, and this results in the second portion 6600 of the flow path 6110 being connected to form a single flow path for that portion of its length. In other forms of this technology, the separator 6115 may continue along the entire length of the flow path 6110 from the vent inlet 6120 to the vent outlet 6130, thereby defining the first and second portions of the flow path.

[0266] exist Figure 9A In the illustrated embodiment, the turning region 6200 is entirely formed by the outer tube portion 7130, which is bent at one end to form the turning portion 7300. In some embodiments, the turning portion 7300 has a convex outer surface extending around the end of the tube portion 7100. The convex outer surface may extend around the outer circumference of the tube portion 7100. The convex outer surface may have a greater curvature near the second end 7120. The turning portion 7300 may be partially dome-shaped, mushroom-shaped, or umbrella-shaped. Figure 9A In this configuration, the outer tube portion 7130 is bent into a U-shape, or essentially turns 180°, away from the central longitudinal axis of the tube portion 7100. The shape of the outer tube portion 7130 is configured to substantially reverse the airflow. In the first flow portion 6500, the airflow generally flows in the direction from the first end 7110 to the second end 7120. After the turning region 6200, the airflow generally flows in the direction from the second end 7120 to the first end 7110. In other forms of this technology, the turning region 6200 can change the direction of the airflow by different angles between 90° and 180°, as discussed above in section 4.6.3.2 (“Shape of the Flow Path”).

[0267] exist Figure 9AIn the outer tube portion 7130, a first region 7131 has a substantially hollow cylindrical shape. This hollow cylindrical shape is configured to fit around the inner tube portion 7120, and a first portion 6500 of the flow path 6110 is formed therebetween. A second region 7132 of the outer tube portion 7130 is formed closer to the second end 7120 of the tube portion 7100 and includes a curved flange extending outwardly from the first region 7131. The second region 7132 includes a rearwardly extending surface on the outer surface of the first region 7131, and one or more flow paths 6110 are formed between the inner surface of the second region 7132 and the outer surface of the first region 7131. The second region 7132 also has a substantially hollow cylindrical shape. Figure 9A In the first region 7131, the second region 7132 has a smaller radius at the second end 7120 of the tube portion 7100 compared to the end forming the vent outlet 6130. The second region 7132 forms a surface with a smooth curve between its opposite ends (i.e., from the second end 7120 to the vent outlet 6130). For reasons discussed above, this smooth curve helps direct the airflow leaving the vent towards the outer surface of the first region 7131, which helps reduce noise. In other forms of this technology, the second region 7132 can have different shapes, such as a shape without an increased radius, or a shape with a radius that increases and then decreases again between the second end 7120 and the vent outlet 6130.

[0268] In other forms of this technology, the turning region 6200 may be formed between the inner surface of the flange 7145, which is included as part of the inner tube portion 7140, and the outer surface of the outer tube portion 7130, as discussed in section 4.6.3.2 (“Shape of the flow path”).

[0269] humidifier

[0270] In one form of this technology, a humidifier 5000 is provided (e.g., such as...). Figure 5A (As shown), to change the absolute humidity of the air or gas delivered to the patient relative to ambient air. Typically, a 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.

[0271] The humidifier 5000 may include a humidifier reservoir 5110, a humidifier inlet 5002 for receiving airflow, and a humidifier outlet 5004 for delivering humidified airflow. In some forms, such as Figure 5A and Figure 5BAs 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 is adapted to receive the humidifier reservoir 5110 and includes a heating element 5240.

[0272] Glossary

[0273] For the purposes of this 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.

[0274] General Rules

[0275] 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.

[0276] Environment: In some forms of this technology, the term environment is considered to mean (i) the exterior of the treatment system or the patient, and (ii) directly surrounding the treatment system or the patient.

[0277] 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 inside the patient's bedroom. This type of ambient humidity can differ from the humidity outside the patient's bedroom.

[0278] In another instance, environmental stress can be stress that is either close to or outside the body.

[0279] In some forms, ambient (e.g., acoustic) noise can be considered as the background noise level in the room where the patient is located, rather than noise generated, for example, by the RPT device or emitted from the mask or patient interface. Ambient noise can be generated by sources outside the room.

[0280] Automated Positive Airway Pressure (APAP) therapy: CPAP therapy in which the therapeutic pressure is automatically adjusted between minimum and maximum based on the presence or absence of SDB event indicators, such as between breaths.

[0281] Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy: a respiratory pressure therapy in which the treatment pressure remains substantially constant throughout the patient's respiratory cycle. In some forms, the pressure at the airway inlet is slightly higher during expiration and slightly lower during inspiration. In some forms, the pressure will vary between different respiratory cycles, for example, increasing in response to the detection of signs of partial upper airway obstruction and decreasing when signs of partial upper airway obstruction are not present.

[0282] Flow velocity: The volume (or mass) of air delivered per unit time. Flow velocity can refer to an instantaneous quantity. In some cases, a reference to flow velocity will be a scalar quantity, that is, a quantity that only has a magnitude. In other cases, a reference to flow velocity will be a vector quantity, that is, a quantity that has both magnitude and direction. Flow velocity can be given by the symbol Q. “Flow rate” is sometimes simply abbreviated as “flow rate” or “airflow”.

[0283] In the context of patient breathing, flow rate can be nominally positive for the inspiratory portion of the patient's respiratory cycle and therefore negative for the expiratory portion. Device flow rate Qd is the flow rate of air leaving the RPT device. Total flow rate Qt is the flow rate of air and any supplemental gas reaching the patient interface via the air circuit. Ventilation flow rate Qv is the flow rate of air leaving the ventilator to allow flushing of exhaled air. Leakage flow rate Ql is the leakage flow rate from the patient interface system or elsewhere. Respiratory flow rate Qr is the flow rate of air received from the patient's respiratory system.

[0284] Flow therapy: Breathing therapy involves delivering a flow of air to the airway inlet at a controlled flow rate known as the therapeutic flow rate, which is generally positive throughout the patient’s respiratory cycle.

[0285] Humidifier: The term humidifier will be considered to mean a humidifying device that is constructed and arranged or configured to have a physical structure that enables it to deliver a therapeutically beneficial amount of water (H2O) vapor to an airflow to improve a patient’s medical respiratory condition.

[0286] Leakage: The term leakage is considered to refer to unintended airflow. In one instance, leakage might occur due to an incomplete seal between the mask and the patient's face. In another instance, leakage might occur in a swivel bend leading to the environment.

[0287] Conducted noise (acoustic): In this document, conducted noise refers to noise transmitted to the patient through pneumatic paths, such as air circuits and patient interfaces, and the air therein. In one form, conducted noise can be quantified by measuring the sound pressure level at the end of the air circuit.

[0288] Radiated noise (acoustic): In this document, radiated noise refers to noise transmitted to the patient by ambient air. In one form, radiated noise can be quantified according to ISO 3744 by measuring the sound power / sound pressure level of the object under discussion.

[0289] Ventilation noise (acoustic): Ventilation noise in this document refers to the noise generated by the flow of air through any ventilator (such as the ventilator opening of a patient interface).

[0290] Patient: A person, regardless of whether they have a respiratory illness.

[0291] Pressure: Force per unit area. Pressure can be expressed in a series of units, including cmH2O, gf / cm². 2 And hectopascals. 1 cmH2O equals 1 g-f / cm 2 And approximately 0.98 hectopascals (1 hectopascal = 100 Pa = 100 N / m) 2 = 1 millibar to 0.001 atm). In this specification, unless otherwise stated, pressure is given in cmH2O.

[0292] 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.

[0293] Respiratory pressure therapy (RPT): Applying an air supply to the airway inlet at a therapeutic pressure that is typically positive relative to the atmosphere.

[0294] Ventilator: A mechanical device that provides pressure support to a patient to perform some or all of the breathing work.

[0295] Material

[0296] Silicone or silicone elastomer: A synthetic rubber. In this specification, the reference to silicone refers to liquid silicone rubber (LSR) or molding silicone rubber (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. (Years? Required?)

[0297] Polycarbonate: a thermoplastic polymer of bisphenol A carbonate.

[0298] Mechanical properties

[0299] Resilience: The ability of a material to absorb energy during elastic deformation and release energy during unloading.

[0300] Elasticity: Releases virtually all of the energy upon unloading. Examples include certain silicones and thermoplastic elastomers.

[0301] Hardness: The ability of a material to resist deformation (e.g., described by Young's modulus or by an indentation hardness scale measured on a standardized sample size).

[0302] • "Soft" materials may include silicone or thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) and may deform easily, for example, under finger pressure.

[0303] • "Hard" materials can include polycarbonate, polypropylene, steel or aluminum, and are not easily deformed, for example, under finger pressure.

[0304] 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 opposite of stiffness is flexibility.

[0305] 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 within 1 second, to support their own weight.

[0306] Rigid structures or components: Structures or components that do not significantly change shape when subjected to loads typically encountered in use. An example of such use could be establishing and maintaining a seal between the patient interface and the inlet of the patient's airway at a pressure of approximately 20 to 30 cmH2O.

[0307] For example, an I-beam may have a different bending stiffness (resistance to bending loads) in the first direction compared to the second orthogonal direction. In another instance, a structure or component may be flexible in the first direction and rigid in the second direction.

[0308] Patient Interface

[0309] Anti-asphyxiation valve (AAV): A component or sub-assembly of a mask system that reduces the risk of excessive CO2 rebreathing by opening to the atmosphere in a fail-safe manner.

[0310] Bend: A bend is an instance of a structure in which the axis guiding the airflow through it changes direction by an angle. In one form, this angle can be approximately 90 degrees. In another form, the angle can be greater than or less than 90 degrees. A bend can have a generally circular cross-section. In another form, a bend can have an elliptical or rectangular cross-section. In some forms, the bend can rotate relative to the mating component, for example, approximately 360 degrees. In some forms, the bend can be removed from the mating component, for example, via a snap-fit ​​connection. In some forms, the bend can be assembled to the mating component during manufacturing via a single snap-fit, but cannot be removed by the patient.

[0311] Frame: The frame is considered to refer to the mask structure that bears tensile loads between two or more connection points with the headband. The mask frame can be a non-airtight load-bearing structure within the mask. However, some forms of mask frames can also be airtight.

[0312] Headband: A headband is considered to refer to a form of positioning and stabilization structure designed for use on the head. For example, a headband may include an assembly of one or more support bars, straps, and reinforcements configured to position and hold the patient interface on the patient's face for delivery of respiratory therapy. Some straps are formed from soft, flexible, elastic materials, such as laminated composites of foam and fabric.

[0313] Membrane: A membrane is to be understood as a typically thin element that is preferably not flexurally resistant but is tensilely resistant.

[0314] Pneumatic chamber: A mask pneumatic chamber is considered to refer to a portion of the patient interface having a wall that at least partially encloses a certain volume of space, which, during use, contains air pressurized to above atmospheric pressure. A shell may form part of the wall of the mask pneumatic chamber.

[0315] Sealing: can refer to the noun form of a structure ("sealing") or the verb form of the effect ("sealing"). Two elements can be constructed and / or arranged to "seale" or to achieve "sealing" between them without the need for a separate "sealing" element itself.

[0316] Shell: A shell is generally considered to refer to a curved, relatively thin structure with bending, tensile, and compressive stiffness. For example, the curved structural walls of a face mask can be a shell. In some forms, the shell can be multifaceted. In some forms, the shell can be airtight. In some forms, the shell may not be airtight.

[0317] Reinforcing member: A reinforcing member is considered to be a structural component designed to increase the bending resistance of another component in at least one direction.

[0318] Support: The support will be considered as a structural component designed to increase the compressive strength of another component in at least one direction.

[0319] Rotary shaft (noun): A sub-assembly of a component configured to rotate, preferably independently and preferably under low torque, about a common axis. In one form, the rotary shaft may be configured to rotate at least 360 degrees. In another form, the rotary shaft may be configured to rotate less than 360 degrees. When used in the case of air delivery conduits, the sub-assembly of the component preferably comprises a pair of mating cylindrical conduits. In use, there may be little or no air leakage from the rotary shaft.

[0320] Lacing (noun): A structure designed to resist tension.

[0321] Vent (noun): A structure that allows airflow from inside the mask or tubing to ambient air for clinically effective flushing of exhaled gases. For example, depending on the mask design and treatment pressure, clinically effective flushing can involve a flow rate from about 10 liters per minute to about 100 liters per minute.

[0322] Other notes

[0323] This patent document disclosure contains copyrighted material. The copyright holder does not object to the reproduction of this patent document or patent disclosure by any person in the form it appears in the patent office documents or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights.

[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 stated range are broadly encompassed within this technology. The upper and lower limits of these intermediate ranges may be independently included within the intermediate range and also within the scope of this technology, but are subject to any express exclusions within the stated range. Where a stated range includes one or two limitations, the range excluding one or both of those included limitations is also included within this technology.

[0325] Furthermore, where one or more values ​​stated herein are implemented as part of this technology, it should be understood that such values ​​may be approximate unless otherwise stated, and such values ​​may be used for any suitable valid digits to the extent that practical technical implementations may allow or require them.

[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 technology pertains. While any methods and materials similar to or equivalent to those described herein may 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 identified for use in 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, as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include their plural equivalents, unless the context clearly specifies otherwise.

[0329] All publications mentioned herein are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety 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 due to 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 an element, component, or non-exclusive step, 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 included in the detailed description are for the reader's convenience only and should not be used to limit the subject matter found throughout the disclosure or claims. These headings should not be used to interpret the claims or limit their scope.

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

[0333] Therefore, it should be understood that various modifications can be made to the illustrative examples and other arrangements can be designed without departing from the spirit and scope of this technology.

[0334] List of reference numerals

[0335] 1000 patients

[0336] 1100 bed partners

[0337] 3000 patient interfaces

[0338] 3100 Sealing Formation Structure

[0339] 3200 pneumatic chamber

[0340] 3300 Positioning and Stabilization Structure

[0341] 3400 Vent

[0342] 3600 connection port

[0343] 3700 head support

[0344] 3800 intubation

[0345] 3810a Nasal fork tube

[0346] 3810b Nasal fork tube

[0347] 3820a lumen

[0348] 3820b lumen

[0349] 4000 RPT unit

[0350] 4010 Outer Housing

[0351] 4012 Upper Part

[0352] 4014 (Lower Part)

[0353] 4015 Panel

[0354] 4016 chassis

[0355] 4018 Controller

[0356] 4020 Pneumatic Block

[0357] 4100 Pneumatic Components

[0358] 4110 air filter

[0359] 4112 Inlet Air Filter

[0360] 4114 Exit Air Filter

[0361] 4120 silencer

[0362] 4122 Inlet silencer

[0363] 4124 Exit silencer

[0364] 4140 Pressure Generator

[0365] 4142 Blower

[0366] 4144 brushless DC motor

[0367] 4160 Anti-overflow valve

[0368] 4170 Air Circuit

[0369] 4180 Supplement oxygen

[0370] 4200 Electrical Components

[0371] 4202 Printed Circuit Board Assembly (PCBA)

[0372] 4210 Power Supply

[0373] 4220 Input Device

[0374] 4270 transducer

[0375] 5000 Humidifier

[0376] 5002 Humidifier Inlet

[0377] 5004 Humidifier Outlet

[0378] 5006 Humidifier Base

[0379] 5110 storage device

[0380] 5120 Conductive Part

[0381] 5130 Humidifier Storage Base

[0382] 5135 Locked Lever

[0383] 5150 Water Level Indicator

[0384] 5240 heating element

[0385] 6000 Ventilation Structure

[0386] 6100 Ventilation Housing

[0387] 6102 First end of the vent housing

[0388] 6104 The second end of the vent housing

[0389] 6106 connector

[0390] 6110 Flow Path

[0391] 6115 separator

[0392] 6120 Ventilation Inlet

[0393] 6130 Ventilation Outlet

[0394] 6200 Turning Area

[0395] 6210 Steering area section

[0396] 6300 Inner Path Surface

[0397] 6310 Flat area

[0398] 6320 Curved Area

[0399] 6330 First point

[0400] 6340 Second point

[0401] 6350 Maximum Thickness Area

[0402] 6400 outer path surface

[0403] 6500 Part 1

[0404] 6510 First end of the first part

[0405] 6520 The second end of the first part

[0406] 6600 Part Two

[0407] 7000 Connecting Components

[0408] 7100 pipe section

[0409] 7110 First end

[0410] 7120 Second end

[0411] 7130 External Pipe Section

[0412] 7131 The first area of ​​the outer pipe section

[0413] 7132 Second area of ​​the outer tube section

[0414] 7140 Inner Tube Section

[0415] 7145 Flange

[0416] 7150 End Stop

[0417] 7200 Noise Attenuation Structure

[0418] 7210 Sound Attenuation Chamber

[0419] 7220 gap

[0420] 7230 Stepped area

[0421] 7300 Steering Part

Claims

1. A ventilation structure for a respiratory therapy system, the ventilation structure comprising: Ventilation housing, the ventilation housing defining: Flow path for exhausting air from the respiratory therapy system; A ventilation inlet configured to allow the airflow into the flow path; as well as Configured to allow the airflow to leave the flow path and enter a ventilation outlet in the surrounding ambient air; The vent housing is configured such that the flow path includes a bend and turn region in which the flow path changes direction substantially 180°, and the vent housing includes an inner path surface on the inside of the flow path and an outer path surface on the outside of the flow path. The width of the flow path at the turning region and in the region downstream of the turning region is substantially at least 0.85 mm; and The opening angle between the inner path surface of the vent housing at the vent outlet and the outer path surface of the vent housing at the vent outlet is substantially 7° or less.

2. The ventilation structure according to claim 1, wherein in the turning region, the inner path surface has an arcuate cross-sectional shape.

3. The ventilation structure according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the flow path changes direction to substantially the opposite direction through the deflection region.

4. The ventilation structure according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the inner path surface has a cross-sectional shape in the form of a part of an wing or similar to a part of an wing.

5. The ventilation structure according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the inner path surface defines a chord with a chord length of at least 50 mm.

6. The ventilation structure according to claim 5, wherein the maximum thickness region of the inner path surface is located along the chord at a distance of at least 25% of the chord length from the end of the chord adjacent to the turning region.

7. The ventilation structure according to claim 6, wherein the ventilation outlet is located downstream of the maximum thickness region.

8. The ventilation structure according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the ventilation housing includes a plurality of partitions forming a plurality of flow paths therebetween, wherein, The plurality of flow paths includes the flow path, and other flow paths among the plurality of flow paths are similar to the flow path.

9. A patient interface, comprising: A pneumatic chamber capable of being pressurized to a treatment pressure at least 6 cmH2O higher than ambient air pressure, the pneumatic chamber including a pneumatic chamber inlet port, the size and structure of which are configured to receive an airflow for patient respiration at the treatment pressure. A sealing structure is configured and arranged to form a seal with a region of the patient's face surrounding the patient's airway inlet, the sealing structure having an opening therein such that the airflow under the treatment pressure is delivered to at least one inlet of the patient's nostril, the sealing structure being configured and arranged to maintain the treatment pressure in the pneumatic chamber during the patient's entire respiratory cycle in use; as well as The ventilation structure according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the ventilation structure allows the patient's exhaled gas to flow continuously from the interior of the pneumatic chamber to the environment, and the size and shape of the ventilation structure are configured to maintain the therapeutic pressure in the pneumatic chamber during use. The patient interface is configured to allow the patient to breathe from the environment through their mouth without a pressurized airflow through the pneumatic chamber inlet port, or the patient interface is configured to leave the patient's mouth uncovered.

10. A connecting member configured to directly or indirectly fluidly connect an air circuit to a patient interface of a respiratory therapy system, the connecting member comprising: The tubing portion includes a first end configured to be fluidly connected directly or indirectly to the air circuit and a second end configured to be fluidly connected directly or indirectly to the patient interface; as well as The ventilation structure according to any one of claims 1 to 8 is configured to allow air in the tube portion to leave into the ambient air.

11. The connecting member according to claim 10, wherein the tube portion comprises: Outer tube section; as well as Inner tube section.

12. The connecting member according to claim 11, wherein the outer tube portion is rotatable relative to the inner tube portion about a mutual longitudinal axis.

13. The connecting member according to any one of claims 11 or 12, wherein the outer tube portion includes the first end, and the inner tube portion includes the second end.

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