Adapter for respiratory assistance system and availability feature

Abstract

The invention provides an adapter for a respiratory assistance system and availability features. The adapter comprises: an inlet connector configured to be connected to a gas source outlet and defining a first gas passage having a first axis; and an outlet connector configured to be connected to an inspiratory conduit connector and defining a second gas passage having a second axis, the second gas passage fluidly connected to the first gas passage, the inspiratory conduit connector being incompatible with direct connection to the gas source outlet; wherein the first axis is separated from the second axis by an angle allowing the suction conduit connector to be connected to the gas source outlet via the bypass adapter in a space less than the length of the suction conduit connector. A port cap assembly and a humidification device including the port cap assembly are also provided, where the port cap assembly provides improved assembly and / or usability.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of an invention patent application with an application date of June 16, 2016, application number 201680048228.5, PCT international application number PCT / NZ2016 / 050098, and invention name “Adapter and usability features for respiratory assistance systems”.

[0002] priority

[0003] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 180,518, filed on June 16, 2016, and entitled “Adaptors for Respiratory Assistance Systems,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. This application also claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 280,072, filed on January 18, 2016, and entitled “Adaptors for Respiratory Assistance Systems,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. This application also claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 295,988, filed on February 16, 2016, and entitled “Adaptors and Usability Features for Respiratory Assistance Systems,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0004] The present disclosure generally relates to respiratory assistance systems. Specific aspects of the present disclosure relate to catheter connectors and adapters for respiratory assistance systems. Other aspects relate to respiratory assistance systems having features for improving assembly and / or usability. Background Art

[0005] A breathing assistance system can be used to provide breathing gases to the patient from a gas source, via an inspiratory conduit in fluid communication between the gas source and the patient interface. Examples of patient interfaces can include a mouth mask, a nasal mask, a full face mask covering the patient's nostrils and mouth, a nasal cannula, a tracheal mask, or an endotracheal tube. In a breathing assistance system where the gas source is a ventilator, the gas exhaled by the patient into the patient interface may be returned via an expiratory conduit in fluid communication between the patient interface and the ventilator. The inspiratory conduit and the expiratory conduit can be connected to the patient interface via a Y-piece.

[0006] The respiratory assistance system may include a humidification device to condition the respiratory gases provided to the patient. The humidification device may include a humidification chamber containing a liquid, and a heater adjacent to the humidification chamber for heating the liquid to produce vapor. The humidification device may be positioned in the fluid communication path between the gas source and the patient interface to heat and / or humidify the respiratory gases before being delivered to the patient interface via the inspiratory catheter. Exhaled gases at 100% relative humidity and 37°C are delivered to the patient to simulate the properties of the air as it is transformed when it passes through a person's nose to the lungs. This can promote efficient gas exchange and ventilation in the lungs, can assist defense mechanisms in the airways, and can increase the comfort of the patient during treatment.

[0007] A respiratory assistance system including a humidification device may include an additional supply conduit to enable the humidification device to be positioned in a fluid communication path between a patient interface and a gas source, such as a ventilator. In other words, an inspiratory conduit may connect the humidification device to a patient interface or a Y-piece connector that is connected to the patient interface, and a supply conduit may connect the humidification device to the ventilator. The supply conduit may be connected to an inlet port of a humidification chamber, and the inspiratory conduit may be connected to an outlet port of the humidification chamber.

[0008] A typical respiratory assistance system including a humidification device may include an inspiratory catheter having a connector that can be connected to the humidification device or to a ventilator. An inspiratory catheter having such a connector allows a user to temporarily bypass the humidification device by disconnecting the supply catheter from the ventilator and the inspiratory catheter from the humidification device, and then connecting the inspiratory catheter directly to the ventilator. Temporarily bypassing the humidification device may be useful for testing the ventilator and / or inspiratory catheter prior to use, or for other purposes.

[0009] The humidification chamber may include mechanisms such as floats to help reduce the likelihood that the liquid level in the chamber will exceed a certain level. The float may rise and fall with the liquid level in the chamber. When the liquid level reaches a certain level, the float may cause a mechanism such as a valve to be actuated, thereby blocking or plugging a port connected to the liquid conduit to stop or slow further entry of liquid into the chamber. The chamber may include an opening or port for connecting a liquid conduit or a supply device tube. The liquid conduit may extend from the chamber and may be connected to a lancet for a water bag.

[0010] The port cap assembly can be used with a humidification chamber, for example, during shipping and storage. The port cap can cover the air inlet port. The post of the port cap can include an extension that is configured to be received within the chamber to secure the float in place within the chamber. The liquid conduit can be received within or accommodated by the port cap. The lancet can be received within a receiving seat portion of the port cap. The port cap assembly can include a lifting structure. The lifting structure can pivot relative to the port cap and can include a ring, a tab, a hook, or any other suitable structure. The lifting structure serves as a visual indicator to help encourage removal of the port cap while also assisting in the removal. Summary of the invention

[0011] An inspiratory conduit for use in a respiratory assistance system including a humidification device may have a connector including one or more components configured to mate with one or more corresponding components of the humidification device that supplement or modify components of a standard ventilator connector. Such a connector may support desirable features provided by the humidification device, and it may also prevent the inspiratory conduit from being connected to a ventilator or supply conduit to temporarily bypass the humidification device.

[0012] As an example, an inspiratory catheter connector may be incompatible with a standard ventilator connector because it is configured to provide an electrical connection between a humidification device and a wire in the inspiratory catheter, such as a heating wire (the heating wire is powered by the humidification device and is configured to heat the respiratory gas in the inspiratory catheter to maintain a desired gas temperature and / or reduce the formation of condensate in the inspiratory catheter) or a sensor wire (the sensor wire is configured to transmit an electrical signal from a sensor disposed in or near the gas flow path to the humidification device to measure a characteristic or property of the exhaled gas. As another example, an inspiratory catheter connector may be incompatible with a standard ventilator connector because it is configured to provide a releasable locking connection between the inspiratory catheter and the humidification device, or to prevent liquid from being discharged or splashed into the inspiratory catheter and onto the electrical components of the connector.

[0013] An inspiratory conduit having a connector that is incompatible with a standard ventilator connector can be connected to a ventilator using a first bypass adapter to temporarily bypass the humidification device. The inspiratory conduit can also be connected to a supply conduit using a second bypass adapter to temporarily bypass the humidification device. Each bypass adapter can be configured to be disposable and to be retained or attached to an airway or other respiratory assistance system before and / or during use.

[0014] The humidification device may include a humidification chamber. The humidification chamber may include an air inlet port for receiving relatively dry gas and an air outlet port for delivering relatively moist or wet gas to the patient. The chamber may further include an opening or port for connecting a liquid conduit or a supply device tube. The liquid conduit may extend from the chamber and may be connected to a lancet for a water bag. The liquid conduit may be integrally formed with the chamber or permanently connected to the chamber. The lancet may be connected to the liquid conduit via an adhesive, sonic welding, interference fit or any other suitable means. The lancet may include a vent. If the lancet is inserted into a foldable bag such as plastic, the vent may be blocked. However, if the lancet is inserted into a rigid container such as a glass bottle, the vent may be opened to allow air to enter the container to help reduce or prevent negative pressure in the container. The vent may include a filter that is air permeable but not liquid-permeable.

[0015] In use, the liquid conduit delivers liquid (e.g., water) from a liquid source (e.g., a water bag, a saline bag, or the like) to the chamber. A heater adjacent to the chamber (e.g., a heating plate engaged with the base of the chamber) heats the chamber and causes at least some of the contents of the chamber to be evaporated. The chamber may include a plurality of features to help reduce the possibility that the liquid level in the chamber exceeds a certain level. For example, the chamber may include one or more floats. Each float may rise and fall with the liquid level in the chamber. When the liquid level reaches a certain level, each of these floats may cause a mechanism to be actuated to block or plug a port connected to the liquid conduit in order to stop or slow down the further entry of liquid into the chamber. The mechanism may be a valve. Other similar features may also be used. A plurality of floats may be used, each of which is adapted to stop the further entry of liquid into the chamber. For this reason, in the event that the first float fails, a second float may provide a backup or safety mechanism, thereby further reducing the possibility that the chamber is overfilled.

[0016] WO 2015 / 174859, incorporated herein by reference, discloses a plurality of different features for improving the assembly and / or usability of a humidification system (including an improved cap for a port of a humidification chamber). In the arrangement described in WO 2015 / 174859, the air inlet port extends generally vertically, and the air outlet port extends generally horizontally with an elbow configuration extending generally vertically from the chamber and then generally horizontally, or in an orientation other than generally vertical. For example, during shipment and storage, a port cap can be used to cover the air inlet port. The port cap can include a collar and a column with the collar, and the column has a port surrounding a support member. In some configurations, the support member can be a generally planar surface including an opening, the opening size being determined and configured to receive the air inlet port, but other configurations are possible.

[0017] The retainer may extend upwardly from the support and define a forward opening. The retainer may be formed by a rectangular frame positioned generally forward of the opening of the air inlet port. The post may be inserted into the air inlet port and may include a cover. The cover may be located on at least a portion of the air inlet port. The cover may be located on at least a portion of the collar and may be located on the entire collar. The cover may further include a downwardly extending flange that generally covers three sides of the collar. The flange may be slightly spaced from the retainer.

[0018] The post of the port cap may include a finger-shaped piece that may be integrally formed with the cover and configured to be received inside the chamber to secure the float in place in the chamber. The liquid conduit may be wrapped around the inlet port. The wrapped liquid conduit may be inserted into the port cap through a forward opening defined by a retainer. The wrapped liquid conduit may be positioned so that the inlet port may extend through the ring and the support is below the ring. The post may be inserted into the port and the finger-shaped piece extends into the chamber.

[0019] The cover and flange may generally surround the wound fluid conduit. The lancet may be connected to the fluid conduit. The lancet may be received within a sleeve. The sleeve may be connected to the port cap, more specifically to at least one of a collar or a post. The sleeve may be attached to or integrally formed with a retainer and may be pivotally connected to a collar or retainer. The sleeve may have a flange connected to the retainer extending upward from the edge of the retainer. In such a configuration, the sleeve may pivot downward when the lancet is positioned within the sleeve.

[0020] In addition, the port cap can include a lifting structure. The lifting structure can be pivoted relative to the port cap and can include a ring, a tab, a hook, or any other suitable structure. The lifting structure serves as a visual indicator to help encourage removal of the port cap while also assisting in the removal.

[0021] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a bypass adapter for a respiratory assistance system is provided. The bypass adapter is configured to enable an inspiratory catheter to be connected between a gas source and a patient interface to bypass a humidification device. The connector of the inspiratory catheter is configured to be connected to an outlet of a humidification device, but is not suitable for connecting to an outlet of a gas source. The bypass adapter includes an inlet connector, an outlet connector, and a hollow body. The inlet connector is configured to be connected to an outlet of the gas source, but is not suitable for connecting to an outlet of the humidification device or a connector of the inspiratory catheter; the outlet connector is configured to be connected to a connector of the inspiratory catheter, but is not suitable for connecting to an outlet of the gas source or an outlet of the humidification device. The hollow body defines a gas flow path between the inlet connector and the outlet connector. The inlet connector differs from the outlet connector in at least one physical aspect such that the inlet connector comprises at least one physical feature enabling the inlet connector to be connected to the outlet of the gas source but not to the outlet of the humidification device or to the connector of the inhalation duct, and / or the outlet connector comprises at least one feature enabling the outlet connector to be connected to the connector of the inhalation duct but not to the outlet of the gas source or to the outlet of the humidification device.

[0022] In some embodiments, the shape of the inlet connector can be different from the shape of the outlet connector. In some embodiments, each of the inlet connector and the outlet connector can be tubular, and each of the inlet connector and the outlet connector can include an outer diameter and an inner diameter, and one or both of the outer diameter and the inner diameter of the inlet connector can be different from the corresponding outer diameter or inner diameter of the outlet connector.

[0023] In some embodiments, the length of the inlet connector can be different from the length of the outlet connector. In some embodiments, at least one of the inlet connector and the outlet connector can be tapered along its length. In some embodiments, each of the inlet connector and the outlet connector can be tapered, and the taper on the inlet connector can be different from the taper on the outlet connector.

[0024] In some embodiments, each of the inlet connector and the outlet connector can be elongated and have a corresponding longitudinal axis, and the longitudinal axis of the inlet connector can be aligned with the longitudinal axis of the outlet connector. In some embodiments, the longitudinal axis of the inlet connector can be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the outlet connector. In some embodiments, the longitudinal axis of the inlet connector can be coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the outlet connector.

[0025] In some embodiments, each of the inlet connector and the outlet connector can be elongated and have a corresponding longitudinal axis, and the longitudinal axis of the inlet connector may not be aligned with the longitudinal axis of the outlet connector. In some embodiments, the longitudinal axis of the inlet connector can be tilted relative to the longitudinal axis of the outlet connector. In some embodiments, the longitudinal axis of the inlet connector can be at an obtuse angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the outlet connector. In some embodiments, the angle between the longitudinal axis of the inlet connector and the longitudinal axis of the outlet connector can be between about 110 degrees and about 160 degrees. In some embodiments, the angle between the longitudinal axis of the inlet connector and the longitudinal axis of the outlet connector can be between about 110 degrees and about 145 degrees. In some embodiments, the angle between the longitudinal axis of the inlet connector and the longitudinal axis of the outlet connector can be about 112 degrees.

[0026] In some embodiments, the bypass adapter may include a retainer configured to retain the bypass adapter on or to another component of the breathing assistance system. In some embodiments, the retainer may be a catheter retainer configured to retain the bypass adapter on or to a catheter of the breathing assistance system. In some embodiments, the catheter retainer may include a ring through which the catheter is received. In some embodiments, the catheter retainer may include a spring clip that defines a variable-sized mouth configured to receive the catheter, the mouth being biased to a state in which the mouth retains the catheter. In some embodiments, the spring clip may have a horseshoe shape.

[0027] In some embodiments, each of the inlet connector and the outlet connector may be located at a respective end of the housing, and an imaginary straight line between the two ends of the housing is shorter than the length of a gas flow path through the housing. In some embodiments, one end of the housing may be vertically spaced apart from the other end of the housing when the housing is viewed from the side. In some embodiments, the gas source may be a ventilator.

[0028] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, a bypass adapter for a respiratory assistance system is provided. The bypass adapter includes a source plug and a suction plug. The source plug is configured to be connected to a gas source outlet. The source plug defines a first gas passage having a first axis. The suction plug is configured to be connected to a connector of a suction catheter. The suction plug defines a second gas passage having a second axis. The second gas passage is fluidly connected to the first gas passage. The connector of the suction catheter is incompatible with being directly connected to the gas source outlet. The angle between the first axis and the second axis allows the connector of the suction catheter to be connected to the gas source outlet via the bypass adapter in a space less than the length of the connector of the suction catheter.

[0029] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, a catheter kit for a respiratory assistance system is provided, comprising an inspiratory catheter configured to be connected between a patient interface and a humidification device and a bypass adapter according to the first or second aspect of the present disclosure.

[0030] In some embodiments, the catheter kit may include a supply conduit configured to be connected between a gas source and the humidification device. In some embodiments, the catheter kit may include an interface connector configured to form a connection between one end of the inspiratory conduit and the patient interface. In some embodiments, the interface connector may include a Y-shaped piece connector. In some embodiments, the catheter kit may include an expiratory conduit.

[0031] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, a respiratory assistance system is provided, the respiratory assistance system comprising a gas source, a humidification device, an inspiratory conduit, and a bypass adapter of the first or second aspect of the present disclosure. The gas source and the humidification device are configured to be connected via a supply conduit. The inspiratory conduit is configured to be connected between the humidification device and a patient interface. The bypass adapter is configured to enable the inspiratory conduit to be connected between the gas source and the patient interface to bypass the humidification device.

[0032] According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, a bypass adapter comprises: a source plug, which is configured to be connected to an outlet port and defines a first gas passage having a first axis; and a suction plug, which is configured to be connected to an inhalation catheter connector and defines a second gas passage having a second axis, the second gas passage being fluidly connected to the first gas passage, and the inhalation catheter connector is incompatible with being directly connected to the outlet port; wherein the angle between the first axis and the second axis allows the inhalation catheter connector to be connected to the outlet port via the bypass adapter in a space smaller than the length of the inhalation catheter connector.

[0033] The first axis may be spaced apart from the second axis by an angle between about 110 and about 160 degrees. The first axis may be spaced apart from the second axis by an angle between about 110 and about 145 degrees. The first axis may be spaced apart from the second axis by an angle of 112 degrees. The bypass adapter may include a tube retainer configured to attach the bypass adapter to a tube. The tube retainer may include a ring. The pipe retainer may include a horseshoe.

[0034] According to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, a bypass adapter comprises: a source plug configured to be connected to a supply conduit connector and defining a first gas passage; and a suction plug configured to be connected to a suction conduit connector and defining a second gas passage, the second gas passage being fluidly connected to the first gas passage, the suction conduit connector being incompatible with being directly connected to the supply conduit connector.

[0035] The bypass adapter may include a tube retainer configured to attach the bypass adapter to a tube. The tube retainer may include a ring. The tube retainer may include a horseshoe, more specifically a horseshoe member, or a generally C-shaped member.

[0036] According to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, a port cap assembly is configured to cover a port, preferably an air inlet port, of a humidification chamber for shipping and / or storage, the port cap assembly comprising a port cap having: a first wall portion and a second wall portion, the first and second wall portions being fixedly positioned relative to each other, and each of the first and second wall portions having an aperture therethrough to define a passage through the wall portions; wherein the passage is configured to receive a leg therethrough so that the leg extends into the port when the port cap is engaged with the port, wherein at least one of the apertures in the first and second wall portions is arranged and / or configured to control the orientation and / or position of the leg relative to the port. According to a preferred embodiment, the leg forms part of the port cap assembly.

[0037] In some embodiments, the port cap may include one or more additional wall portions or members that prevent or block the leg from being inserted in at least one orientation and / or allow the leg to be inserted in only one or more predetermined orientations. To achieve this, the one or more portions or members may together form a grid across at least a portion of the passage. Alternatively, the wall may extend across at least a portion of the passage, and / or one or more openings may be provided therein. These openings or spacings define one or more access passages for the leg to pass through the passage, and when engaged with the chamber port, the leg enters the chamber to engage and retain one or more floats. According to some embodiments, these openings may have a shape complementary to the transverse cross-section of the leg.

[0038] In some embodiments, the one or more walls define a grid covering or located within at least a portion of the passageway.

[0039] In some embodiments, the at least one orientation and / or the one or more predetermined orientations may be a rotational orientation of the leg about an axis extending through the passageway and / or relative to the port.

[0040] In some embodiments, the port cap assembly may include a flange extending away from the second wall portion and defining an edge. In addition or alternatively, in some embodiments, the port cap assembly may include a cover configured to engage the port cap and / or the leg and / or the wall defining the port. Preferably, a retaining device is provided to at least partially prevent the cover from being accidentally removed from the port cap. For example, a concave-convex fit or friction fit may be provided between at least a portion of the cover and the surface of the port assembly, and the port assembly engages the cover when the cover is in a closed position to cover the chamber port to prevent dust, etc. from entering the chamber. For example, in some embodiments, the cover may be configured to releasably engage the edge and / or the one or more additional wall portions or at least one of the wall portions, so as to at least partially prevent the cover from being accidentally removed from the port cap. In order to be able to easily remove the assembly from the chamber port, it is preferably less force required to disengage so that when the user removes the assembly by hand, there is little resistance. This is particularly important because some users may have limited dexterity or limited use of their hands or fingers.

[0041] In some embodiments, the arm includes a weakened portion that enables the cover to be removed from the rest of the port cap assembly.

[0042] In some embodiments, the cover is configured to releasably engage the port. In some embodiments, the port cap assembly can include a skirt or downwardly depending wall configured to extend around at least a portion of the outer periphery of the first and / or second wall portions. This can provide a cleaner or neater appearance, as well as improve the integrity of the assembly and / or assist in preventing foreign material from entering the chamber.

[0043] In some embodiments, the leg may be attached to the cover and / or the pull tab or ring, and the cover may include a weakened portion configured to be visibly damaged when a user removes the cover from the port.

[0044] These wall portions can be configured to define a passage that is substantially aligned with the port, and the controlled orientation of the leg includes the alignment of the leg inside the port. This can be provided by arranging and / or configuring the first and second wall portions to control the orientation and / or position of the leg relative to the port. The alignment can cause the leg to be substantially parallel to the chamber port. Therefore, the passage can control the orientation of the leg about at least about 2 degrees of freedom, which are rotations around two perpendicular axes, each of which is perpendicular to the passage (and perpendicular to the inlet port when the port cap and leg are connected thereto).

[0045] In some embodiments, the port cap includes one or more orientation features and / or alignment features for cooperating with one or more corresponding features on the port of the chamber and / or the leg.

[0046] In some embodiments, the port cap assembly includes the leg.

[0047] In some embodiments, the leg includes a cylindrical portion at or near the first end that tapers toward the second end.

[0048] In some embodiments, the leg is generally tubular when one or more portions thereof are removed.

[0049] In some embodiments, the leg includes one or more orientation features and / or alignment features, and / or is essentially configured to provide such features, and the orientation features and / or alignment features of the leg are configured to cooperate with one or more corresponding features on the inlet port of the chamber and / or the port cap.

[0050] In some embodiments, the legs include one or more engagement locations to secure one or more buoyant bodies within the chamber for shipping and / or storage.

[0051] The port cap assembly may include other or additional orientation features and / or alignment features. According to one embodiment, the port cap includes one or more protrusions or recesses that engage one or more corresponding recesses or protrusions associated with the port (preferably disposed on its outer wall) to control the rotational orientation of the port cap relative to the port around an axis passing through the passage. In addition or alternatively, the cover of the port cap may be configured to engage the leg. For example, one or more protrusions or recesses disposed on the cover may engage one or more corresponding recesses or protrusions on the leg to control its position and / or orientation. According to some embodiments, the recesses or protrusions on the cover may be configured to engage the wall defining the leg in addition or alternatively without the need for a separate or additional device to be disposed on the leg to achieve engagement. In the case where the leg includes a generally cylindrical portion to which the cover engages, the cover may be provided with a protrusion that is configured to fit tightly inside or outside the cylindrical portion.

[0052] Additionally or alternatively, the opening or some other portion of the passageway may be configured to control the position and / or orientation of the leg relative to the port cap. According to some embodiments, the port cap and / or the leg may include an orientation feature that cooperates with the port to further control the orientation of the leg relative to the port.

[0053] According to such embodiments, at least some portions of the passageway may be configured to define an opening that is at least partially complementary to a segment of the leg. For example, by way of non-limiting example, the leg may have an arcuate segment, wherein the passageway defines an opening that is complementary to the segment. Thus, the position of the leg within the passageway may be controlled, as may the rotational orientation of the leg about the longitudinal axis of the passageway. Preferably, the leg has a non-planar and / or asymmetric cross-section to limit the rotational orientation about an axis passing through the passageway to a single orientation.

[0054] As will be appreciated, only certain portions of the periphery of the segments of the leg may engage the wall defining the passageway. For example, a grid may be provided that includes one or more segments extending at least partially across the passageway, the grid defining locations where the leg may be inserted and preventing insertion elsewhere, and further controlling the rotational orientation of the leg relative to the port cap about an axis passing through the passageway.

[0055] To assist in inserting the leg into the passage during initial assembly, preferably a complementary opening of the port cap may be positioned at or near (preferably on) the side remote from the first wall portion, thereby providing a visual cue as to where the leg should be inserted.

[0056] More than one such complementary opening may be provided.For example, the first and second wall portions, or other wall portions, may define an opening at least partially complementary to a section of the leg, thereby also controlling the orientation of the leg about vertical axes, each of which is perpendicular to the axis of the passage.

[0057] Throughout this specification, reference to the axis of a passage is not intended to limit the passage to any selected symmetry. For example, the passage may have a square, triangular, L-shaped, etc. profile. Rather, it is intended to relate to the length of the passage.

[0058] It is noted that the wall and / or member used to define the restricted passageway may be integral with another portion of the port cap assembly or the port or an insert inserted therein. Thus, another aspect of the present invention provides such an insert.

[0059] The leg may in this or alternatively include an orientation feature and / or an alignment feature, and / or provide such features in and of itself. According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the leg is sized to fit tightly within the port, thereby controlling the alignment of the leg relative to the inlet port. Additionally or alternatively, the leg may include one or more protrusions or recesses that engage one or more corresponding recesses or protrusions associated with the inlet port (preferably provided on its inner wall) to control the rotational orientation of the leg relative to the inlet port about an axis passing through the passageway.

[0060] The leg may be configured to secure one or more floats within the humidification chamber for shipping and / or storage. To this end, the leg may define or have one or more engagement points, each engagement point being configured to engage a respective float.

[0061] According to some embodiments, the leg includes a cylindrical portion at or near the first end, which is tapered toward the second end by effectively cutting or removing multiple portions of the cylinder and / or reducing the diameter of the cylinder toward the second end. Preferably, the cylindrical portion is hollow so that the first end of the leg is open. The tapering can assist the leg in passing through the passage and inserting it into the air inlet port of the chamber. The cutouts and the like perform similar functions, but can also assist in enabling the leg to be properly inserted into the chamber so that the required engagement with the float is completed. Further, the cutouts and / or reduced size of at least some portions of the leg can reduce the possibility of potential damage to features inside the chamber (e.g., sensors or grommets provided therefor). Controlling the orientation of the leg can play a similar role.

[0062] According to some embodiments, the chamber may include a baffle that defines an arcuate profile passageway inside the chamber, the arcuate profile being complementary to the profile of the portion of the leg that passes therethrough when the port cap assembly (e.g., port and leg) is engaged with the inlet port of the humidification chamber. By forming the leg profile to be complementary to the arcuate passageway, the leg and arcuate passageway may cooperate to control the rotational position of the leg inside the inlet. Further, the baffle may assist in preventing liquid from overflowing the chamber when the chamber is transported and further control the flow of gas into the chamber, thereby providing more effective humidification.

[0063] In some embodiments, the leg includes a gripping portion.

[0064] In some embodiments, the gripping portion is connected to the leg via an arm, and the port cap is configured to engage the arm to control the orientation of the leg. The leg may include a gripping portion, and may be in the form of a ring, a tab, or a hook. The gripping portion may be integrally formed with the leg or connected thereto. According to some embodiments, the gripping portion is connected to the leg via an arm. The arm may be connected to the leg at or near a first end of the leg. The gripping portion may be configured to facilitate removal of the leg from the chamber.

[0065] According to some embodiments, the gripping portion and / or the arm may be used, or include features that enable control of the orientation of the leg relative to the port cap. For example, the cover may include a protrusion or depression that engages with the gripping portion or a portion of the arm so that the cover is inhibited from rotating about an axis passing through the passage. According to some embodiments, this may be achieved by including a raised portion or stepped portion in the cover, or by cutting away from the rim or cover, so that there is a space in which the engaging portion of the arm or gripping portion can be tightly contained, wherein little lateral movement of the arm is then possible.

[0066] It will be appreciated that various ones of the orientation / alignment features may cooperate to facilitate assembly and retain the assembly in a desired configuration.

[0067] In some embodiments, the lid can be connected to the body of the port cap via a hinge. This hinge can be in the form of a flexible arm, for example, based on a polymer material, which is integrally formed with or fixedly attached to the body of the lid and the port cap (preferably at or near the edge). The flexible arm may include a weak portion so that the lid can be removed from the rest of the assembly. By configuring the lid to engage the port, the lid can act as a cover for the port to prevent or at least reduce the entry of foreign material into the chamber.

[0068] In some embodiments, the cover may further include a protrusion engaging the rim. The protrusion engages the interior or exterior of the rim to provide improved connection and retention of the cover on the body when in the closed engagement position.

[0069] In some embodiments, the port cap assembly may further include a sleeve for receiving and removably retaining a spike of a water or other humidifying agent supply. The spike may be provided with a water or other humidifying agent supply. For example, the spike may be coupled or connectable to a delivery conduit that is coupled or connectable to a humidification chamber. According to some embodiments, the sleeve may be preferably connected to the body of the port cap at or near an edge.

[0070] In some embodiments, the port cap assembly includes a connecting wall extending between the first wall portion and the second wall portion.

[0071] In some embodiments, the port cap assembly includes one or more windows or openings in the joining wall.

[0072] In some embodiments, the window or opening or one of the windows or openings is configured to receive tubing coils for delivering a humidifying agent to the chamber, wherein, when the leg is engaged with the port cap, a portion of the coils are contained within the space defined by the first and second wall portions, the connecting wall, and a portion of the leg opposite the connecting wall, the coils surrounding the leg.

[0073] In some embodiments, the joining wall extends beyond the second wall portion to provide the flange and rim.

[0074] The port cap may further include a connecting wall extending between the first wall portion and the second wall portion, preferably at or near the periphery or edge of these wall portions. The connecting wall preferably extends beyond the second wall portion to provide the flange and edge. At least one opening or window can be provided in the connecting wall so that the connecting wall does not completely extend around the periphery or edge of these wall portions. When the leg is assembled or engaged to the port cap, the connecting wall, the first and second wall portions, and a portion of the leg can define a space to accommodate at least a portion of a flexible conduit used in a humidification reagent supply device. More specifically, according to some embodiments, at least one end of a supply device pipeline coil can be received in the space, and then the leg is inserted into the passage to fix the coils in place. A portion of these coils can extend through the opening or window so that the coils are wrapped around the leg.

[0075] According to an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, an insert for a port, preferably an air inlet port, of a humidification chamber for use with the port cap assembly of the seventh aspect. The insert may include one or more wall portions defining a passageway, the one or more wall portions preventing or blocking a leg of the port cap assembly from being inserted into the port in at least one orientation, and / or allowing the leg to be inserted in only one or more predetermined orientations. In some embodiments, the one or more wall portions may define a grid configured to extend across at least a portion of the port when in use.

[0076] In some embodiments, the at least one orientation and / or the one or more predetermined orientations may be a rotational orientation of the leg about an axis extending through the port. In some embodiments, the insert may include one or more orientation features and / or alignment features configured to cooperate with one or more corresponding orientation features and / or alignment features in or around the port to control or define the orientation and / or position of the insert relative to the port. In some embodiments, the one or more orientation features and / or alignment features may control the rotational orientation of the insert relative to an axis extending through the port.

[0077] According to a ninth aspect of the present disclosure, a port cap assembly leg is configured to be used with the port cap assembly of the seventh aspect and / or the insert of the eighth aspect. For example, other features of the leg can be obtained from the disclosure provided in relation to the seventh aspect.

[0078] According to a tenth aspect of the present disclosure, a humidification device includes a humidification chamber configured with the port cap assembly of the seventh aspect and / or the insert of the eighth aspect engaged with the port cap assembly.

[0079] In some embodiments, the humidification device includes one or more orientation features and / or alignment features for cooperating with one or more corresponding orientation features and / or alignment features of the port cap assembly and / or the insert.

[0080] In addition to the inlet port of the chamber being configured to receive the legs therein and the port cap thereabout, one or more orientation features or alignment features may be provided on or about the inlet port to cooperate with one or more orientation features or alignment features of the port cap assembly specified above with respect to the seventh aspect. For example, one or more protrusions, recesses, grooves, and ribs may be provided on the inner or outer wall of the inlet port of the chamber, or associated with the inlet port.

[0081] In some embodiments, the humidification device may further include any one or more of the following: one or more floats, a baffle defining an arcuate passage within a portion of the chamber, a supply assembly, an inspiratory tube, an expiratory tube, and a patient interface. In some embodiments, the supply assembly may include a liquid conduit and a lancet or other device for connecting to a humidification agent reservoir.

[0082] According to an eleventh aspect of the present disclosure, a combination kit includes the port cap assembly of the seventh aspect and / or the insert of the eighth aspect.

[0083] In some embodiments, the combination kit includes the humidification device of the tenth aspect.

[0084] For the purpose of summarizing the present disclosure and the advantages achieved over the prior art, certain objects and advantages are described herein. It should be understood that not all such objects or advantages need to be achieved according to any particular embodiment. Thus, for example, those skilled in the art will recognize that the present disclosure can be embodied or implemented in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or a group of advantages as taught or suggested herein without having to achieve other objects or advantages as may be taught or suggested herein. All of these embodiments are intended to be within the scope of the disclosure herein. These and other embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings, and the present disclosure is not limited to any one or more specific disclosed embodiments. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0085] These and other aspects of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the following drawings, which are to be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive.

[0086] Figure 1 is a simplified diagram of an exemplary respiratory assistance system including a gas source (such as a ventilator) and a humidification device.

[0087] Figure 2-4 is a perspective view of a humidification chamber mounted on a mounting portion of a humidification device.

[0088] Figure 5 It is a perspective view of the installation portion of the humidifying device.

[0089] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the suction catheter connector.

[0090] Figure 7-11 are graphics of various aspects of a ventilator and a humidifier mounted proximate to the ventilator.

[0091] Figure 12-13 is a partial cross-sectional side view illustrating exemplary dimensions of clearances between various aspects of a ventilator and a humidification device mounted proximate to the ventilator.

[0092] Figure 14-16 is a side view illustrating exemplary dimensions of various connectors and bypass adapters according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0093] Figure 17-22 is a perspective view of different bypass adapters configured for connecting an inspiratory conduit connector to a source outlet or supply conduit of a ventilator, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0094] Figure 23-24 is a side view showing exemplary dimensions of various connectors and bypass adapters according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein: Fig.23It is a partial cross-sectional view.

[0095] Fig.25A and 25B 1 and 2 are side and perspective views, respectively, of a bypass adapter according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0096] Fig.26A and 26B 1 and 2 are side and perspective views, respectively, of another bypass adapter according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0097] Fig. 27 An exemplary humidification chamber and its components are shown.

[0098] Figures 28A-28D Various views of a port cap according to an embodiment of the present invention are provided.

[0099] Figures 29A-29D Provided is a method for Figures 28A-28D Different views of the assembled leg with the port cap.

[0100] Fig.30 is an exploded view of a port cap assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0101] Fig.31 is a perspective view of at least a portion of a port cap assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0102] Figures 32A-32E are different views of at least a portion of a port cap assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0103] Fig.33 and 34 A view of a leg portion for a port cap assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention is provided.

[0104] Fig.35A shows a leg according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Figures 35B-35D Provided is a method according to an embodiment of the present invention Fig.35A Different views of the legs after being removed from the wider port cap assembly.

[0105] Fig.36 A port cap according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0106] Fig.37A and 37B An alternative view of an embodiment of a port cap assembly coupled to a humidification chamber is shown.

[0107] Fig.38A and 38B An insert according to an alternative embodiment of the invention is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0108] Figure 1 1 is a simplified diagram of an exemplary respiratory assistance system 100 that can be used to provide respiratory gases to a patient 101. The respiratory assistance system 100 may include a gas source 105 in fluid communication with a patient interface 115 via an inspiratory conduit 103 and an expiratory conduit 117. The inspiratory conduit 103 and the expiratory conduit 117 may be connected to the patient interface 115 via a Y-piece 113. In some configurations, the gas source 105 includes a ventilator. In some configurations, the gas source 105 includes a fan 121 that is configured to extract air or other gas passing through an inlet 119 and deliver the air or other gas through a source outlet 137. In some configurations, the inspiratory conduit 103 may be connected to the source outlet 137 (not shown). The electronic controller 123 may control the speed of the fan 121 in response to inputs to the electronic controller 123 (including, but not limited to, user inputs supplied via a user interface 127). The electronic controller 123 may also include, or be arranged to be controlled by, predetermined control algorithms that control the fan speed based on predetermined methodologies, and / or based on data input from suitable sensors within the breathing assistance system 100 .

[0109] In the illustrated configuration, the respiratory assistance system 100 also includes a humidification device 107 configured to condition the respiratory gases provided to the patient 101. The humidification device 107 can be positioned in the fluid communication path between the ventilator 105 and the patient interface 115 to heat and / or humidify the respiratory gases before delivery to the patient interface 115 via the inspiratory conduit 103. The humidification device 107 includes a humidification chamber 129 (containing a liquid 130) and a heater 131 adjacent to the humidification chamber 129, which is used to heat the liquid 130 to produce vapor to humidify the respiratory gases passing through the liquid 130. In some configurations, the inspiratory conduit 103 includes a heating wire 135, which is configured to maintain the temperature of the gas delivered to the patient interface 115 through the inspiratory conduit 103 and reduce the formation of condensation in the inspiratory conduit 103. The electronic controller 125 can control the duty cycle of the heater 131, the duty cycle of the heating wire 135, and / or at least a portion of the functions of the electronic controller 125 in response to inputs of the electronic controller 123 (including but not limited to user inputs supplied via the user interface 133). In some configurations, the electronic controller 123 can control at least a portion of the functions of the electronic controller 125.

[0110] The humidification device 107 can be connected to the ventilator 105 through the supply conduit 151. Specifically, the source connector 157 of the supply conduit 151 can be connected to the source outlet 137, and the humidification device connector 153 of the supply conduit 151 can be connected to the inlet port 159 of the humidification chamber 129. The inhalation connector 109 of the inhalation conduit 103 can be connected to the outlet port 111 of the humidification chamber 129, so that the gas delivered from the ventilator 105 through the supply conduit 151 to the humidification chamber 129 can continue to pass through the inhalation conduit 103 to the patient interface 115. In some configurations, the inhalation connector 109 can be configured to be connected to the mounting portion 155 of the humidification device 107, so that the electrical signal can be transmitted from the humidification device to the inhalation conduit 103 through the electrical connection provided by the inhalation connector 109. As an example but not limiting, the electronic controller 125 can control the duty cycle of the heating wire 135 via the electrical connection provided by the inhalation connector 109.

[0111] Figures 2 to 6 Different views of an exemplary embodiment of an inhalation connector 109 configured to provide an electrical connection to a mounting portion 155 of a humidification device 107 and a gas connection to an outlet port 111 of a humidification chamber 129 are shown. Figure 2 is a side view of the inhalation connector 109 connected to the mounting portion 155 and the humidification chamber 129. Figure 3 A humidification chamber 129 is shown, which is provided with Figure 2 The same manner is positioned adjacent to the humidification chamber 129, but the inhalation connector 109 is absent. The port plug 175 ( Figure 6 ) can be configured to be positioned at the humidification chamber 129 when the inhalation connector 109 is connected to the humidification chamber 129. Figure 3 and 4 The electrical terminal 173 ( Figure 6 ) can be configured so that when the air inhalation connector 109 is connected to the mounting portion 155, the electrical terminal 171 ( Figure 5 shown) in conjunction with.

[0112] It may be desirable to connect the inspiratory conduit 103 directly to the ventilator 105, to temporarily bypass the humidification device 107, to test the ventilator 105 and / or the inspiratory conduit 103, or for other purposes. In some configurations, the humidification device 107 can be bypassed by disconnecting the source connector 157 of the supply conduit 151 from the source outlet 137, disconnecting the inspiratory connector 109 from the outlet port 111 of the humidification chamber 129, and connecting the inspiratory connector 109 directly to the source outlet 137.

[0113] However, in some embodiments, the inhalation connector 109 can be configured to connect to the outlet port 111 and the mounting portion 155 of the humidification device 107 in a manner that prevents the inhalation connector 109 from being directly connected to the source outlet 137. Specifically, the port plug 175 of the inhalation connector 109 can include a size and / or shape that is compatible with the outlet port 111 of the humidification chamber 129, but not compatible with the source outlet 137. For example, the inhalation connector 109 can include a plurality of retention features that are configured to provide a releasable, lockable connection between the inhalation connector 109, the humidification chamber 129, and the mounting portion 155, which connection can prevent or at least not adequately provide proper retention of the source outlet 137. Exemplary embodiments of such retention features are disclosed in PCT / NZ2014 / 050024, filed on December 19, 2014 and published as WO / 2015 / 093989, and incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0114] Figure 7 1 is a diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a ventilator 105 and a humidification device 107, wherein the humidification device 107 is proximate to the ventilator 105 in a typical mounting arrangement. The inhalation connector 109 is shown connected to the mounting portion 155 and the outlet port 111 of the humidification chamber 129. The humidification device connector 153 of the supply conduit 151 is shown connected to the humidification chamber 129 at the inlet port 159. The source outlet 137 is shown exposed, but the source connector 157 of the supply conduit 151 can be attached to the source outlet 137 during use.

[0115] In some configurations, such as Figure 8 As shown, a filter 179 is positioned in line between the supply conduit 151 and the source outlet 137 ; in other words, the filter 179 may be connected to the source outlet 137 , and the source connector 157 of the supply conduit 151 may be connected to the filter 179 . Fig. 9 An alternative embodiment of a filter 179 is shown connected between the source outlet 137 and an older inhalation connector 197. The older inhalation connector 197 is configured to attach to the source outlet 137, the filter 179, or the outlet port 192 of the older humidification chamber 194.

[0116] Figure 7 The typical mounting arrangement depicting the humidification device 107 close to the ventilator 105 may also contribute to the incompatibility of the inhalation connector 109 for direct connection to the source outlet 137. For example, the inhalation connector 109 may be too large to fit in the gap between the humidification device 107 and the source outlet 137. Fig.10 and Fig.11Examples of a user attempting to connect different embodiments of the inhalation connector 109 to different embodiments of the filter 179 are shown. Fig.12 and Fig.13 An example of the physical limitations imposed by a typical mounting arrangement of the humidification device 107 in close proximity to the ventilator 105 is shown in FIG.

[0117] Fig.12 is a side view of an exemplary arrangement of a humidifying device 107 proximate to a filter 179 attached to a source outlet 137, showing a gap 144 of approximately 79 mm between an upper portion of the rear edge of the humidifying device 107 and a front edge of the filter 179, and a gap 148 of 76 mm between a lower portion of the rear edge of the humidifying device 107 and a front edge of the filter 179. Fig.10 Also shown is a gap 142 of approximately 40 mm between the front edge of the filter 179 and the front edge of the ventilator user interface housing 177, and a gap 146 of approximately 95 mm between the upper edge of the humidification device 107 and the bottom edge of the ventilator rear handle bar 191.

[0118] Fig.13 1 is a front view of an exemplary arrangement of the humidifying device 107 proximately attached to the filter 179 on the source outlet 137, showing that the gap 164 between the upper edge of the humidifying device 107 and the upper edge of the filter 179 is approximately 10 mm. Fig.11 Also shown is a gap 162 of approximately 160 mm between the upper edge of the humidification device 107 and the bottom edge of the ventilator user interface housing 177, and a gap 166 of approximately 45 mm between the side edge of the humidification device 107 and the side edge of the ventilator side handle bar 193.

[0119] Figures 14 to 16 The problems caused by the mounting arrangement of the humidification device 107 close to the ventilator 105 when using the inhalation connector 109 are shown. Fig.14 The older suction connector 197 is shown to include a width 168 of approximately 68 mm. Since the width 168 is smaller than the gap 148 between the lower portion of the rear edge of the humidifying device 107 and the front edge of the filter 179, the older suction connector 197 fits in the gap 148. Fig.15 As shown, the suction connector 109 includes a length 184 of about 70 mm, and the bypass adapter 199 includes a minimum protruding length 182 of about 21 mm. Fig.16 As shown, when the bypass adapter 199 is connected to the suction connector 109, the resulting assembly has a length 186 of about 91 mm. Since the length 186 is greater than the gap 148, the assembly of the suction connector 109 and the bypass adapter 199 cannot fit in the gap 148. These measurements correspond to Fig.10 and Fig.11The connection failure is shown in the figure.

[0120] Fig.17 An exemplary embodiment of a bypass adapter 201 configured to connect a suction connector 109 to a filter 179 according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. As shown, the bypass adapter 201 includes: a first connector including a source plug 205 configured to be tapered and fit within the filter 179; a second connector including a suction plug 203 configured to be tapered and fit within the port plug 175 of the suction connector 109; and a catheter or tube retainer 207 configured to be attached to the suction catheter 103. In some embodiments, the source plug 205 is configured to be tapered and fit outside the source outlet 137. The tube retainer 207 can be useful for ensuring that the bypass adapter 201 is not lost before or after use. The tube retainer 207 includes a ring, for example, through which the suction catheter 103 can pass, so that the tube retainer 207 retains the bypass adapter 201 on the suction catheter 103. In some embodiments, the bypass adapter 201 does not include a tube retainer.

[0121] Fig.18 An exemplary embodiment of a bypass adapter 211 configured to connect the suction connector 109 to the filter 179 is shown. As illustrated, the bypass adapter 211 includes: a first connector including a source plug 215 configured to be push-fitted into the filter 179; a second connector including a suction plug 213 configured to be push-fitted into the port plug 175 of the suction connector 109; and a tube retainer 217 configured to be attached to the suction catheter 103. In some embodiments, the source plug 215 is configured to be push-fitted to the outside of the source outlet 137. In some embodiments, the bypass adapter 211 does not include a tube retainer.

[0122] Fig.19 An exemplary embodiment of a bypass adapter 231 configured to connect the suction connector 109 to the filter 179 is shown. As illustrated, the bypass adapter 231 includes: a first connector including a source plug 235 including a plurality of tapers configured to friction fit within the filter 179; a second connector including a suction plug 233 including a plurality of tapers configured to friction fit within the port plug 175 of the suction connector 109; and a tube retainer 237 configured to be attached to the suction catheter 103. In some embodiments, the bypass adapter 231 does not include a tube retainer.

[0123] Fig. 20An exemplary embodiment of a bypass adapter 251 configured to connect the suction connector 109 to the filter 179 is shown. As illustrated, the bypass adapter 251 includes: a first connector including a source plug 235 configured to fit around the outer taper of the filter 179; a second connector including a suction plug 253 including a locking ridge 259 configured to lockably fit within the port plug 175 of the suction connector 109. In some embodiments, the bypass adapter 251 includes a tube retainer.

[0124] Bypass adapter 201,211,231,251 is shown as including a hollow body, the hollow body including a first end and a second end in fluid communication via a generally straight internal gas passage. In other words, each of the first connector (being source plug 205,215,235,255) defines a gas passage, which shares a common axis with the gas passage defined by each of the second connector (i.e., suction plug 203,213,233,253, respectively). In these examples, the longitudinal axes of the first and second ends of these adapters are coaxial. However, the first end is different from the second end in a certain physical aspect, the first end having a feature that enables it to be connected only to the source outlet 137 or the filter 179, and the second end having a feature that enables it to be connected only to the suction conduit 103. These different features can be the overall shape of the tubular first end and the second end, the outer diameter of each end, the inner diameter, and / or the taper.

[0125] In some configurations, physical limitations imposed by the mounting arrangement of the humidification device 107 close to the ventilator 105 may make it impractical or impossible to use a bypass adapter having a first end and a second end connected by a straight internal gas passage, such as one of bypass adapters 201, 211, 231, 251. A bypass adapter having an angled body may overcome this problem.

[0126] Figure 21 to Figure 22 An exemplary embodiment of a bypass adapter 271 configured to connect the inhalation connector 109 to the filter 179 is shown. Fig.21 As shown, the bypass adapter 271 includes a first connector including a source plug 275 configured to taper around the outside of the filter 179, a second connector including a suction plug 273 configured to taper within the port plug 175 of the suction connector 109, and a catheter or tube retainer 277 configured to attach to the suction catheter 103 to retain the bypass adapter 271, for example, on the suction catheter 103. In some embodiments, the bypass adapter 271 does not include a tube retainer.

[0127] Fig. 22 An embodiment of a bypass adapter 271 including a tube retainer 279 is shown, which is oriented at 90 degrees to the orientation of the tube retainer 277. The source plug 275 and the suction plug 273 each include an elongated tubular body having a corresponding longitudinal axis. The source plug 275 defines an internal gas passage that does not share a common axis with the gas passage defined by the suction plug 273. Instead, the bypass adapter 271 includes an angle θ between the axis of the source plug 275 and the axis of the suction plug 273. This allows the assembly formed by the suction connector 109 connected to the bypass adapter 271 to fit in the gap 148 between the rear top of the humidification device 107 and the forward protruding end of the source outlet 137 or the filter 179 (if provided). Therefore, the longitudinal axis of the first connector 275 is inclined relative to the longitudinal axis of the second connector 273. In some configurations, the angle θ is an obtuse angle and can be, for example, between about 110 degrees and about 160 degrees. In some configurations, angle θ is between about 110 degrees and about 145 degrees. In some configurations, angle θ is about 112 degrees.

[0128] Referring to Figures 25a and 25b, another bypass adapter 301 according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure includes: a first end of an elongated tubular connector, the first end including a source plug 305 configured to fit around the filter 179 or the source outlet 137 external taper; a second end of an elongated tubular connector, the second end including a suction plug 303 configured to fit into the port plug 175 of the suction connector 109. The connector first end 305 is relatively short and tapered radially outward toward a relatively large orifice 305A. A radially outward flared lip 305B extends around the periphery of the orifice 305A. The connector second end 303 is relatively long and includes a shallower taper radially inward toward a relatively small orifice 303A. A radially inwardly directed chamfer 303B extends around the periphery of the orifice 303B. The longitudinal axis 305C of the first connector end 305 is not aligned with the longitudinal axis 303C of the second connector end 303, but intersects it at an obtuse angle of about 112 degrees. The first connector end 305 is therefore configured to be connected only to the source outlet 137 or the filter 179, while the second connector end 303 is configured to be connected only to the connector 109 of the inspiratory conduit 103. These rounded and chamfered ends can help prevent the bypass adapter 301 from being improperly connected to other parts of the respiratory assistance system 100, especially the inspiratory conduit 103.

[0129] 26a and 26b, the modified form of the additional bypass adapter 301 includes a tube or conduit retainer 309 in the form of a spring clip having an opening 309A in which, for example, a suction conduit 103 can be received, the opening 309A deflecting outwardly when the suction conduit 103 is pressed into the retainer 309 and then springing back to its non-deflected state to engage and retain the suction conduit 103. In this example, the tube retainer 309 extends from a narrower portion of the hollow body of the bypass adapter 301 adjacent to the intersection of the connector first end 305 and the connector second end 303 and is partially connected to the hollow body by a connecting plate 309B. This configuration enables the tube retainer 309 to also serve as a handle or grip to enable the bypass adapter 301 to be easily held and manipulated. When so retained, the narrower portion of the hollow body and the connector second end 303 also help retain the bypass adapter 301 and help push the connector first end 305 onto the outlet source 137 or filter 179.

[0130] The embodiments of the bypass adapters 201, 211, 231, 251, 271, 301 described above are intended to be illustrative and not limiting. Other combinations and arrangements of the bypass adapters 201, 211, 231, 251, 271, 301 are possible and are included within the scope of the present disclosure. As examples, the bypass adapter may include a closed or annular tube retainer (as shown in the tube retainers 207, 217, 237), an open or horseshoe-shaped tube retainer (as shown in the tube retainers 277, 279, 309), or no tube retainer. In these latter examples, the tube retainers 277, 279 may be elastically deformable to provide a spring clip that deforms when a catheter (e.g., the suction catheter 103) is pressed into the tube retainer, and then rebounds to grasp the bypass adapter and retain it on the suction catheter 103. Each of the tube retainers 207, 217, 237, 277, 279, 309 can be attached to the bypass adapter in a different orientation, at a different angle, or to a different attachment point than shown. For example, the longitudinal axes of the tubular connector first and second ends of the bypass adapters can be parallel but not coaxial, such that one tubular connector end is laterally spaced from the other tubular connector end.

[0131] Other tube retainer designs configured to fit on or around the respiratory tract or other respiratory system components can also be used. As another example, any one of the source plug 205,215,235,255,275,305 can be combined with any one of the suction plug 203,213,233,253,273,303 in the bypass adapter. And, the source plug 205,215,235,255,275,305 can be configured to fit in or around the filter 179 or the source outlet 137. The first end and / or the second end of these bypass adapters may include a recess for receiving, for example, the source outlet 137 and the suction conduit 103. These alternative arrangements and combinations of aspects of bypass adapters 201,211,231,251,271,301 are intended to be exemplary and non-restrictive only.

[0132] In some configurations, the humidification device 107 can be bypassed while keeping the supply conduit 151 connected to the ventilator 105 by disconnecting the humidification device connector 153 of the supply conduit 151 from the inlet port 159, disconnecting the inspiratory connector 109 from the outlet port 111, and connecting the inspiratory connector 109 to the humidification device connector 153 using a bypass adapter 201, 211, 231. The source plug 205, 215, 235 can be sized to fit within or around the humidification device connector 153.

[0133] In some embodiments, the ventilator 105 includes a self-test function. The ventilator 105 of such embodiments may require the self-test to be performed while bypassing the humidification device, i.e., no humidified gas is supplied to the respiratory assistance system 100. The bypass adapters 201, 211, 231, 251, 271, 301 provide adapters having first and second end connectors that are shaped, sized, tapered, and longitudinally oriented in such a way that the inspiratory conduit 103 can be directly connected to the source outlet 137 in the very limited vertical and horizontal space provided between the humidification device and the ventilator 105 with or without the optional intermediate filter 179.

[0134] Generally straight bypass adapter 201,211,231,251 can be configured to connect supply conduit 151 to source outlet 137 or filter 179. Angled bypass adapter 271,301 can be configured to form a direct connection between one end of inspiratory conduit 103 and source outlet 137 or filter 179. Angled bypass adapter 271,301 is configured so that these connectors are not aligned and do not share the same vertical plane. Therefore, one connector is vertically spaced below another connector. The straight line between one connector and another connector is shorter than the length of the gas flow path between these connectors. These characteristics make bypass adapter 271,301 relatively short when viewed from the side, thereby helping it to be used in a relatively short space between ventilator 105 and humidification device.

[0135] The bypass adapters 201, 211, 231, 251, 271, 301 may be provided with visual markings configured to distinguish the bypass adapters 201, 211, 231, 251, 271, 301 from other components of the breathing assistance system 100. For example, other conduits and connectors of the breathing assistance system 100 may be made of transparent or translucent materials, while the bypass adapters may be made of, for example, contrasting solid and / or colored materials. This may help highlight the bypass adapters 201, 211, 231, 251, 271, 301 when they are not normally used with the breathing assistance system 100 and / or are disposable items.

[0136] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a catheter kit 401 for a respiratory assistance system 100 is provided, which includes an inhalation catheter 103 and the above-mentioned bypass adapters 201, 211, 231, 251, 271, 301, wherein the inhalation catheter 103 is configured to be connected between a patient interface 115 and a humidification device 107.

[0137] The catheter kit 401 may further include any one or more of the following: (a) a supply conduit 151 configured to connect between the ventilator 105 and the humidification device 107; (b) a conduit connector 109 configured to form a connection with one end of the inspiratory conduit 103; (c) an expiratory conduit 117; (d) a humidification chamber 129; (e) a Y-piece connector; (f) a filter for connecting to the source outlet 137; and / or (e) at least one cap or plug for closing an inlet, outlet, or conduit of the system 100.

[0138] The catheter kit 401, or any component of the catheter kit 401, can be supplied in a sterile form, and can be provided, for example, in one or more components in a sealed sterile bag. Any one or more of the components of the catheter kit 401 can be arranged to be disposable after a single use. The bypass adapter described above can be, for example, disposable and subsequently disposable.

[0139] Fig. 27 An exemplary humidification chamber 1004 is shown. The humidification chamber 1004 generally includes an inlet 1010 and an outlet 1012, and is configured to be installed in a humidification device (such as Figure 1 The humidification chamber 1004 is configured to hold a certain volume of liquid, such as water. The chamber 1004 may include an opening or port 1018 for connecting a liquid conduit or a supply device. The liquid conduit can extend from the chamber 1004. In some configurations, the liquid conduit can be connected to the lancet of the water bag. In some configurations, the liquid conduit can be formed integrally with the chamber 1004 or permanently connected to the chamber. The lancet can be connected to the liquid conduit via an adhesive, sonic welding, interference fit or any other suitable means. In some embodiments, the lancet includes a vent. If the lancet is inserted into a foldable bag such as plastic, the vent is blocked. However, if the lancet is inserted into a rigid container (such as a glass bottle), the vent opens and allows air to enter the container to help reduce or prevent negative pressure in the container. The vent may include a filter that is air-permeable but not liquid-permeable.

[0140] In use, the liquid conduit delivers liquid (e.g., water) from a liquid source (e.g., a water bag, a saline bag, or the like) to the chamber 1004. The heating plate heats the chamber 1004 and evaporates at least some of the contents of the chamber 1004. In some embodiments, the humidification chamber 1004 can include features that help reduce the likelihood that the liquid level within the chamber 1004 will exceed a certain level. For example, the chamber 1004 can include one or more floats 1050.

[0141] These floats rise and fall with the liquid level in chamber 1004. When the liquid level reaches a certain level, these floats 1050 block or plug the port connected to the liquid conduit to stop or slow the further entry of liquid into chamber 1004. Other similar features may also be used. In a preferred embodiment, multiple floats 1050 are used, each float being adapted to stop further liquid from entering chamber 1004. To this end, the second float provides a backup or safety mechanism, thereby further reducing the possibility of overfilling chamber 1004. Fig. 27 An exemplary embodiment of such a chamber 104 is shown having a primary float 1050a and a secondary float 1050b.

[0142] Chamber 1004 is configured to be connected to a breathing circuit assembly, which may include a supply conduit, an inspiratory conduit, and in some configurations, an expiratory conduit. The gas supply end of the supply conduit is configured to be connected to an output of a gas supply device, and the chamber end of the supply conduit is configured to be connected to an inlet 1010 of chamber 1004. The chamber end of the inspiratory conduit is configured to be connected to an outlet 1012 of chamber 1004, and the user end of the inspiratory conduit is configured to be connected to a user via, for example, an interface.

[0143] In use, gas flows from the gas supply through the supply conduit and into the chamber 1004 via the inlet 1010. The gas is humidified within the chamber 1004 and leaves the chamber 1004 through the outlet 1012. The user inhales the humidified gas supplied through the inspiratory conduit and can exhale into the expiratory conduit. The inspiratory conduit and / or the expiratory conduit may include a heating element, such as a heating wire, to help maintain the gas at a desired temperature and reduce the possibility of large amounts of condensation forming within the conduit.

[0144] Before use, the operator (such as medical staff) must correctly connect these different parts to assemble the system. Due to the various parts and the number of connections that must be made, the assembly of the system may be a complex process that requires professional training to correctly complete. The humidification system may include different features as described herein to simplify the assembly process and reduce the possibility of incorrect assembly. In certain embodiments, certain usability features can advantageously help reduce the total number and time of steps required during the assembly process. Some features described herein can also help make assembly more intuitive for the user, which can reduce the need for professional on-the-job training.

[0145] In order to begin assembly, the operator places chamber 1004 on the heater base by sliding the humidifying chamber 1004 onto the heater base. Engagement features such as the edge on the heater base can help chamber 1004 to be held in place. In some configurations, the heating plate can be spring-loaded so that the base of chamber 1004 is pressed downward on the heating plate, and the protrusion 1005 of chamber 1004 can be captured between the heating plate and the edge. A plurality of features can be provided to prevent chamber 1004 from being undesirable or accidentally removed from the heater base. For example, a guard can be provided along the front portion of the edge, the guard is pressed down so that the bottom of chamber 1004 can contact the heating plate and once chamber 1004 is installed then, the guard just returns to the position that is not pressed down. This advantageously provides the positive feedback that chamber 1004 is fully installed on the base.

[0146] In some configurations, the frontmost portion of the edge (e.g., the portion of the edge defining the opening for inserting the chamber 1004) is configured with a downwardly inclined raised or enlarged opening. The opening preferably includes a lower surface that is raised above the upper surface of the unpressed guard. In this way, this opening provides the operator with the following visual prompt: the protrusion 1005 can be inserted into the opening. Further insertion of the chamber 1004 into the opening causes the guard to be pressed down and promotes the complete insertion of the chamber into the heater base and can help guide the chamber 1004 to the appropriate position. Therefore, these visual details can indicate to the operator that the chamber 1004 slides into the appropriate position below the edge. This can also help inform the operator that the guard can be pressed down so as to remove the chamber 1004 from the heater base later. Preferably, the chamber 1004 has a detail that presses down the guard when the operator attempts to remove the chamber 1004 from the heater base. Furthermore, by providing the rim with an uneven upper surface, an operator is less likely to assume that chamber 1004 should be placed atop the rim, thereby creating poor thermal conductivity, as such placement would result in an uneven positioning of chamber 1004 .

[0147] The humidification chamber 1004 may be packaged with a port cap covering the inlet 1010 and / or the outlet. These port caps may seal or substantially close the chamber 1004 during shipping and storage. The port cap 2010 according to an embodiment of the present invention may be sealed or substantially closed during shipping and storage. Figures 28A-28D and is configured to Figures 29A-29D 1010 and / or the outlet 1012 and hold the float 1050 in place for shipment. To further discuss the chamber arrangements of the broader humidification system, including the float or its retention, supply means, and exemplary configurations, reference is again made to WO 2015 / 174859, previously incorporated herein by reference.

[0148] The port cap 2010 has a first wall portion 2011a and a second wall portion 2011b, each of which has a corresponding aperture 2012a, 2012b therethrough, which together define a passage through the wall portions 2011a, 2011b. The flange extends away from the second wall portion 2011a to define a rim 2013. The cover 2014 is configured to engage the rim 2013. The passage is configured to receive a leg 2020 therethrough so that the leg extends into the inlet 1010 (or outlet 1012) when the port cap assembly engages the cavity ports 1010, 1012. The apertures 2012a, 2012b are arranged and / or configured to control the orientation of the leg 2020 relative to the ports 2012a, 2012b. For example, as shown in the drawings, the size and shape of the apertures 2012a, 2012b can be at least substantially the same as the outer contour or surface of the portion of the leg 2020 received therein, but slightly larger to accommodate the portion without excessive force. Thus, it is preferred to limit the movement of the leg 2020 after it is fully inserted so that the leg can only move in a direction aligned with the passageway and, when attached to the chamber, in a direction aligned with the ports 1010, 1012.

[0149] The port cap assembly may include other or additional orientation features and / or alignment features. For example, the port cap 2010 may include one or more protrusions or recesses that engage one or more corresponding recesses or protrusions associated with the port (preferably disposed on the outer wall of the port) to control the rotational orientation of the port cap relative to the inlet port about an axis passing through the passage and / or port 1010, 1012. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the port cap 2010 includes protrusions 2015 that are configured to be received on one side of a rib disposed on the outer wall of the port 1010, 1012 to prevent rotation thereof. The ribs on the ports 1010, 1012 may further act as stops for limiting the extent to which the cap 2010 can be inserted into the port by causing the ribs on the ports 1010, 1012 to abut against the lower edge of the cap 2010 between the protrusions 2015. Additionally or alternatively, protrusions such as protrusions 2033 (see Fig.28D ) can engage slots in the outer wall of the ports 1010, 1012. As will be appreciated, protruding features such as protrusions 2015, 2033 or ribs on the port can be interchanged with recessed features such as grooves or slots.

[0150] The cover 2014 of the port cap 2010 can be configured to engage the leg 2020. For example, one or more protrusions or recesses provided on the cover 2014 can engage one or more corresponding recesses or protrusions on the leg 2020 to control the position and / or orientation of the leg. One or more such recesses or protrusions on the cover 2014 can be configured to engage the wall defining the leg 2020 without requiring a separate or additional device to be provided on the leg 2020 to achieve the engagement. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the notch 2016 is configured to receive a portion of the pull tab 2022, more specifically, the arm 2023 connecting the pull tab 2022 to the leg 2020. Further, the protrusion 2017 provided on the underside of the cover 2014 is configured to be received inside the leg 2020, wherein the protrusion 2017 abuts against the inner wall of the leg 2020 at the end thereof where the pull tab 2022 is provided. Although the protrusion 2017 is shown as depending from the cover and providing a continuous wall in addition to the recess 2016, it can be configured in other ways. For example, the wall can be discontinuous and / or vary in height.

[0151] The legs 2020 may include other or alternative orientation features and / or alignment features, and / or provide such features in and of themselves. According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the legs 2020 is sized to fit tightly within the ports 1010, 1012, thereby controlling the alignment of the legs 2020 relative to the ports 1010, 1012. Additionally or alternatively, the legs 2020 may include one or more protrusions or recesses that engage one or more corresponding recesses or protrusions associated with the ports 1010, 1012 (preferably disposed on the inner wall of the ports) to control the rotational orientation of the legs 2020 relative to the ports 1010, 1020 about an axis passing through the passage or the port. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the grooves 2024 are configured to receive protrusions or ribs disposed on the inner wall of the ports 1010, 1012.

[0152] The legs 2020 may be configured to secure one or more floats within the humidification chamber 1004 for shipping and / or storage. To this end, the legs 2020 may define or have one or more engagement points 2025, each engagement point 2025 being configured to engage a corresponding float and retain the float in a particular position when the port cap assembly is mounted on the chamber 1004. Further details of such engagement and structure of the legs are provided in WO 2015 / 174859, previously incorporated herein by reference.

[0153] According to the illustrated embodiment, the leg 2020 includes a generally cylindrical portion at or near the first end, preferably tapered toward the second end by effectively cutting or removing multiple portions of the cylinder and / or reducing the diameter of the cylinder toward the second end. As shown, preferably, the cylindrical portion 2026 is hollow so that the first end of the leg 2020 is open. This specific attribute and the separation of the leg 2020 from the port cap 2010 are differences from the arrangement disclosed in WO 2015 / 174859. This arrangement intuitively informs the operator that the leg 2020 and the port cap 2010 should not be reconnected to the port 1010, 1012 after initial removal. Tapering can assist the leg to pass through the passageway into the port of the chamber. Cutouts and the like perform similar functions, but can also assist in being able to properly insert the leg 2020 into the chamber 1004 and provide the required engagement with the float.

[0154] As disclosed in WO 2015 / 174859, the chamber 1004 may include a baffle that defines an arcuate profile passageway inside the chamber 1004. Preferably, such an arcuate profile is complementary to the profile of the portion of the leg 2020 that passes therethrough when the port cap 2010 and the leg 2020 are engaged with the port 1010, 1012 of the humidification chamber 1004. By forming the leg 2020 with a profile that is complementary to the arcuate passageway, the leg 2020 and the arcuate wall or passageway may cooperate to control the rotational position of the leg 2020 inside the port, and / or its orientation, such that the leg 2020 is generally aligned with the port 1010, 1012. Further, the baffle may assist in preventing liquid within the chamber 1004 from escaping and controlling the flow of gas into the chamber 1004 when the chamber 1004 is transported, thereby providing more effective humidification.

[0155] The cover 1014 can be connected to the body of the port cap 1010 via a hinge 1018. As shown, this hinge 1018 can be in the form of a flexible arm, such as based on a polymer material, which can be integrally formed with or fixedly attached to the cover 1014 and the body of the port cap 1010, preferably at or near the rim 2013. However, in the case where the cover 2014 can be removable, the hinge 2018 can be omitted. The cover 2014 can be configured to engage the rim 2013 with a snap fit or a friction fit or other type of fit.

[0156] The cover 2014 may further include a protrusion 2019 that engages the interior or exterior of the rim 2013 to provide improved connection and retention of the cover on the body of the port cap 2010 when in the closed engaged position. Alternatively, a recess may be provided in the cover 2014 that is configured to receive the rim 2013 therein.

[0157] The port cap assembly may include a sleeve 2030 for receiving and removably retaining a lancet, which may be provided with a supply of water or other humidifying agents. For example, the lancet may be coupled or connectable to a delivery conduit that is coupled or connectable to the humidification chamber 1004. The sleeve 2030 may be preferably connected to the body of the port cap 2010 at or adjacent to the rim 2013.

[0158] The contours of the sleeve 2030, and / or the port cap 2010 having relatively straight and curved walls may aid in the initial assembly of the port cap assembly with the chamber 1004 by providing a visual indication of the desired orientation of these components.

[0159] The port cap 2010 may include a connecting wall 2031 extending between the first wall portion 2011a and the second wall portion 2011b, preferably at or near the periphery or edge of these wall portions 2011a, 2011b. The connecting wall 2031 may extend beyond the second wall portion 2011b to provide the flange and edge 2013. At least one opening or window 2032 may be provided in the connecting wall 2031 so that the connecting wall 2031 does not extend completely around the periphery or edge of these wall portions 2011a, 2011b. When the leg 2020 is assembled or joined to the port cap 2010, the connecting wall 2031, the first wall portion 2011a and the second wall portion 2011b, and a portion of the leg 2020 may define a space to accommodate at least a portion of a flexible tube used in a humidification reagent supply device. More specifically, at least one end of the supply device tubing coil can be received in the space, and then the leg 2020 is inserted into the passage to secure the coils in place. A portion of the coils can extend through the opening or window 2032 so that the coils are wrapped around the leg 2020.

[0160] To assemble the port cap assembly to the chamber 1004, the port cap 2010 may first be slid into engagement with the ports 1010, 1012, the legs 2020 may then be slid into engagement inside the ports 1010, 1012 and the lid 2014 may be closed. Alternatively, the legs 2020 may first be slid into the passage. Preferably, the lid 2014 is then closed so that the orientation of the legs 2020 relative to the port cap 2010 is controlled. The subassemblies 2010, 2020 are then slid into engagement with the ports 1010, 1012. In the case where the port cap is provided with a delivery device, as a preliminary step prior to the above steps, the coil of tubing may thus be inserted into the opening 2032 and as a final step, the spike of the delivery device may be inserted into the cannula 2030.

[0161] To remove the port cap assembly from the chamber 1004, the operator pulls the pull tab 2022 and removes the leg 2020. The port cap 2010 can then be removed and any supply set tubing and lancets removed from the port cap 2010. If the operator then replaces the port cap 2010 onto the port 1010, 1012, it is unlikely that the leg 2020 will also be inserted (this can help prevent damage to components inside the chamber 1004 caused by the leg 2020, such as the grommet covering the sensor port of the chamber 1004). Alternatively, the entire port cap assembly can be removed from the chamber 1004 in one step, where the leg 2020 is then removed by pulling the pull tab 2022 so that the supply set items can be removed.

[0162] Because the supply set conduit is at least partially coiled in the port cap until the legs are removed, the user is substantially prevented from connecting the supply set to a water bag or other reservoir until the legs are removed. This is advantageous because the float is "deactivated" when the legs are in place, thus preventing the chamber from being overfilled.

[0163] Fig.30 Shows Figures 28A-29D In view of the similarity, only the distinguishing features of this embodiment will be described. Fig.30 As can be seen in the embodiment, the cover 2014 is different. According to this embodiment, the cover 2014a is loosely associated with the rest of the port cap or the body 3013, rather than being hinged. For example, the size of one or more downwardly hanging first walls 3011 is determined to be received in and / or around the chamber port. The first wall 2014a can engage the chamber port, and / or the leg 2020, and / or the body 3013 of the port cap via a loose fit, or some preferably small retention features can be provided. For example, there can be a collision or friction fit. Further, the size of one or more downwardly hanging second walls 3012 is determined to be received around the rest of the port cap or the body 3013 of the port cap. The one or more second walls 3012 can engage the body 3013 via a loose fit, or some preferably small retention features can be provided. For example, there can be a collision or friction fit. The force required for removing the cover / port cap should be relatively small to ensure easy removal by pulling the pull tab 2022. Either of the first wall 3011 and the second wall 3012 can be omitted. according to Fig.30 In an embodiment of the present invention, a user may simply retain the cap 2014a and place the cap over the chamber port, thereby providing a dust cover when the chamber is not in use.

[0164] Fig.31Shown is another alternative embodiment. According to this embodiment, the end 3101 of the leg comprises foam or some other elastic soft material, or is formed thereof. Preferably, the length of the end extension is sufficient to prevent the more rigid base 3102 of the leg from abutting or contacting the grommet or the like of the sensor port that can be provided to the chamber. These grommets can, for example, include a wall that defines a dome having a skirt (i.e., generally bell-shaped) hanging therefrom. Near this end of the skirt away from the dome, a device can be provided to retain the grommet in the orifice of the port. For example, a slot can be provided, wherein the wall of the port around the orifice is received inside the slot. The present invention is not limited to such embodiments, but this arrangement is preferred because it provides easy initial installation and subsequent removal and replacement. These cables can also be formed by elastic materials, such as silicone or rubber. In order to position the sensor inside these grommets to provide accurate readings, these sensors preferably abut the dome-shaped portions of these grommets. Further, the sensors preferably apply a force to the dome-shaped portions to stretch the walls of the dome-shaped portions and reduce their thickness, thereby further improving accuracy. This also provides tolerance for the fit of the sensor or sensor probe inside the grommet. Therefore, the grommets can be relatively delicate. By avoiding abutment of the grommets, and / or sensors, and / or probes by relatively rigid members, the ends of the legs formed by foam can avoid damage to and / or displacement of the grommets. It is noted that this form of grommet can be applied to all embodiments requiring a sensor or sensor probe to be set in the breathable gas flow path.

[0165] The end is preferably resilient enough to retain the float in place, but soft or deformable enough so as not to cause any damage to any grommets or the like. Fig.31 The port cap assembly may otherwise be in accordance with Fig.30 The embodiment is configured such that the base 3102 and the end 3103 forming the leg can be removably engaged with the cover portion 3012 and / or the body 3013.

[0166] Figures 32A-32E Another embodiment is shown in . According to this embodiment, a pull tab or ring 3202 is provided on a first side of the port cap 3201. The port cap 3201 includes a skirt or downwardly depending wall 3203. The downwardly depending wall or skirt 3203 is omitted or includes a cutout at least at a second side of the port cap 3201. The second side is opposite or substantially opposite to the first side of the port cap 3201. The leg 3204 is attached to the port cap 3201, but the port cap 3201 includes a weakened area 3205 at or near the attachment portion between the port cap 3201 and the leg 3204.

[0167] As from Figures 32A-32E As can be seen in the sequence shown, the user grasps the pull tab ( Fig.32A ). When the user pulls upward, the port cap 3201 begins to tilt ( Fig.32B ), which is made possible by attaching a pull tab or ring on the side of the port cap opposite the cutout in the skirt 3203. Further pulling causes the weakened area to break and the upper portion of the port cap to tilt further ( Fig.32C ). The inclination means that continued pulling of the tab is in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the chamber port, so that further pulling (32D) removes the port cap 3201 and legs 3204 from the chamber port. Fig.32E The port cap 3201 is shown removed, along with the legs 3204. Since the port cap 3201 is now irreparably damaged, it would be intuitive to the user that it should be discarded, thereby preventing any damage caused by reinserting the legs into the chamber.

[0168] Fig.33 It shows that the present invention can be used for example Figures 28A-29D An alternative embodiment of a leg 3320 for use with the other embodiments shown. According to this embodiment, the circumference of the leg has been reduced to reduce the likelihood that it will shear and loosen or damage the sensor and / or sensor grommet. Additionally or alternatively, the width or circumferential extent of the leg may be reduced, thereby also reducing the likelihood of damage to components of the humidification chamber.

[0169] Fig.34 It shows that the present invention can be used for example Figures 28A-29D An alternative embodiment of a leg 3420 for use with the other embodiments shown. According to this embodiment, portions 3421a, 3421b of the leg have been removed to weaken the leg and reduce its width, thereby reducing the likelihood that it will shear and forcefully dislodge or damage the sensor and / or sensor grommet.

[0170] Figures 35A-35D A further alternative embodiment of a leg 3520 is shown. According to this embodiment, the leg 3520 is formed from a relatively thin, flexible plastic member having a fold 3521 along its length to provide rigidity. The leg further includes a pull tab 3522. This arrangement can be used with a similar Figures 28A-29D The flexible nature of the legs inherently assists in reducing the likelihood of damaging components of the humidification chamber by arbitrary reinsertion of the legs into the chamber, as the legs are susceptible to deformation due to the legs striking any external surface. In addition, the low-cost appearance and disposable nature of the legs give the user an inherent impression that the object is disposable, thereby fundamentally reducing the likelihood of reinsertion. The low cost and / or disposable appearance can be applied to other components of the port cap assembly.

[0171] Fig.35BThe port cap assembly of this embodiment is shown assembled with the chamber. As shown, a humidification liquid (e.g., water) feed line 3524 is shown coiled around the legs 3520 and housed within the body of the port cap, which has a sleeve 3523 that retains the lancet of the feed line 3524. The sleeve prevents the lancet from being able to pierce the liquid reservoir or otherwise connect thereto.

[0172] Fig.35C The first step of removing the legs is shown by the user grasping the pull tab 3522. By continuing to pull, the cover is removed and then the legs 3520 are removed (see Fig.35D Due to the configuration of the legs 3522, reinsertion is difficult and the user in any event is unlikely to inadvertently reinsert the member due to the inherent nature of the member appearing to be disposable. Further, in the event that the user reinserts the legs 3522 into the chamber port, the flexibility of the legs means that the likelihood of damage to the grommet and / or sensor is reduced.

[0173] Fig.36 shows that it can be compared with Figures 28A-29D 3601 for use with the arrangement shown. According to this embodiment, one or more additional walls or members 3602 are provided that may together form a grid to define a restricted passageway to block insertion of the legs (except in a preferred orientation, i.e., a rotational orientation of the legs about the longitudinal axis of the passageway and / or the chamber port). For example, Fig.36 As shown, the spacing defined by the members in one portion may be wider than in another portion, such as by providing a wider spacing between two members or a first member and a wall defining the passage than between another pair of said members or between the first or another member and a wall defining the passage. The wider spacing may serve as a visual indication of where to insert the leg. The narrower gaps between the other members are preferably less than the thickness of the leg, and may be less than the thickness or profile thickness or cross-sectional shape of the leg. Thus, damage to the grommet and / or sensor may be avoided by only allowing the leg to be inserted in a predetermined orientation that deviates from the grommet and / or sensor. Fig.36Another distinguishing feature of the embodiment is that the cover 3603 has a reduced size, commensurate with the size of the passage defined in the port cap 3601. A first wall portion 3604 is provided, which releasably but fixedly connects the cover to the body of the port cap 3601. The second wall portion 3605 provides a neater finish to the cover 3603 and prevents contamination of the chamber, such as dust. One or the other of the first and second wall portions may be omitted, and the cover may alternatively be engaged with the body of the port cap 3601 via the second wall 3605. The engagement may be via a friction fit or a convex-concave fit or any other equivalent means, wherein the engagement preferably requires relatively little force to disengage, allowing the cover to be easily opened and the legs to be easily removed from the port cap 3601. Note that the legs of this embodiment are preferably separate parts, such as Fig.34 shown.

[0174] The arm connecting the cover 3603 to the body of the port cap 3601 of this or all other embodiments may include a weakened portion 3606 to allow the cover 3603 to be removed from the port cap 3601. According to such embodiments, the cover can be attached to the port of the chamber to prevent it from being contaminated by dust or the like.

[0175] Fig.37A and 37B Shows Fig.36 According to this embodiment, member 3702 defines a more restricted passageway, thereby further limiting the permitted orientations of leg 3703 when inserted.

[0176] Fig.38A and 38B An alternative embodiment is shown in which restriction of the passageway and / or port is provided via an insert disposed within the port to provide a preferred orientation when inserting the leg. Fig.36 In the embodiment of the present invention, the wall or member defines a restricted passage, such as via a grid. As with other embodiments, the opening defined by the restricted passage may have a shape substantially the same as the distal end contour of the leg.

[0177] according to Fig.38A In the embodiment of the present invention, the insert 3801 engages the ribs or protrusions 3802a and 3802b via channels 3803a and 3803b, respectively. Likewise, the ribs and channels may be interchanged. The insert 3801 acts as a shield to protect the grommets and / or sensors extending through the aperture 3804. More specifically, as shown, the insert is configured or formed to deflect or direct the leg away from the grommets and / or sensors, or otherwise act as a physical barrier between the grommets and / or sensors and the leg.

[0178] Fig.38B Shows something like Fig.38A An alternative configuration 3805 of insert 3801 of insert 3805.

[0179] The above-described embodiments of the port cap assembly that control the orientation of the legs upon insertion help protect against damage to the grommet and / or sensor not only due to reinsertion, but also during initial assembly prior to shipping.

[0180] As is apparent to those skilled in the art, such devices are typically initially supplied in sealed packaging. In order to avoid damage to, and in particular puncturing, the packaging, the port cap assembly is preferably configured to avoid sharp edges and projections when assembled to the chamber for shipment. For example, rounded corners and edges may be provided on any outer edge or corner of the assembly, such as around the sleeve and / or gripping portion and / or protruding member may be configured to be flexible.

[0181] It should be understood that any examples used in this specification are not limiting and are merely illustrations of possible embodiments for illustration. Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, the words "comprise," "comprising," and the like throughout this specification and the following claims should be interpreted in an open sense (as opposed to a closed or exhaustive sense), that is, in the sense of "including but not limited to."

[0182] The reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgment or any form of suggestion that the referenced prior art forms part of the common general knowledge in the relevant field in any country in the world.

[0183] The present invention may be generally considered to include the parts, elements and features mentioned or indicated individually or collectively in this specification and the appended claims, including any or all combinations of two or more of said parts, elements or features. When reference is made to an integral body or part having known equivalents thereof, those equivalents are incorporated herein as if individually set forth.

[0184] It should be noted that a variety of different modifications to the embodiments disclosed herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention and without reducing its incidental advantages. For example, different components may be repositioned or reshaped as needed. Such modifications are therefore intended to be included within the scope of the invention. Moreover, all features, aspects and advantages disclosed herein are not necessarily required to practice the invention. Therefore, the scope of the invention is intended to be limited only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A bypass adapter for a respiratory assistance system, the bypass adapter being configured to enable an inspiratory conduit to be connected between a gas source and a patient interface to bypass a humidification device, the connector of the inspiratory conduit being configured to be connected to an outlet of the humidification device but not suitable for being connected to an outlet of the gas source, the bypass adapter comprising: an inlet connector configured to be connected to an outlet of the gas source but not suitable for connection to an outlet of the humidification device or to a connector of the inspiratory conduit; an outlet connector configured to be connected to a connector of the inspiratory conduit but not adapted to be connected to an outlet of the gas source or an outlet of the humidification device; as well as a hollow body defining a gas flow path between the inlet connector and the outlet connector, Wherein, the inlet connector differs from the outlet connector in at least one physical aspect, so that the inlet connector includes at least one physical feature, which enables the inlet connector to be connected to the outlet of the gas source but not to the outlet of the humidification device or the connector of the inhalation duct, and / or the outlet connector includes at least one feature, which enables the outlet connector to be connected to the connector of the inhalation duct but not to the outlet of the gas source or the outlet of the humidification device.

2. The bypass adapter of claim 1, wherein: The shape of the inlet connector is different from the shape of the outlet connector.

3. A bypass adapter as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein: Each of the inlet connector and the outlet connector is tubular and includes an outer diameter and an inner diameter, and one or both of the outer diameter and the inner diameter of the inlet connector are different from the corresponding outer diameter or inner diameter of the outlet connector.

4. The bypass adapter according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The length of the inlet connector is different than the length of the outlet connector.

5. The bypass adapter according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: At least one of the inlet connector and the outlet connector is tapered along its length.

6. The bypass adapter of claim 5, wherein: Each of the inlet connector and the outlet connector is tapered, and the taper on the inlet connector is different than the taper on the outlet connector.

7. The bypass adapter according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: Each of the inlet connector and the outlet connector is elongated and has a respective longitudinal axis, and the longitudinal axis of the inlet connector is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the outlet connector.

8. The bypass adapter of claim 7, wherein: The longitudinal axis of the inlet connector is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the outlet connector.

9. The bypass adapter of claim 7, wherein: The longitudinal axis of the inlet connector is coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the outlet connector.

10. The bypass adapter according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: Each of the inlet connector and the outlet connector is elongated and has a respective longitudinal axis, and the longitudinal axis of the inlet connector is not aligned with the longitudinal axis of the outlet connector.

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