Textile tube for treatment device

Abstract

An air circuit for use in an air treatment device that is lightweight and comfortable for a user, the air circuit configured to also limit air leakage. The air circuit may include a tubular structure formed from a variety of textile structures, including circular knit, circular knit, knit, and other structures.

Description

[0001] 1Related Applications

[0002] This application is a divisional application of the patent application with application number 202080027779.X, application date February 11, 2020, and invention name “Textile tube for therapeutic device”. The application with application number 202080027779.X is an application entering the Chinese national phase of the international application number PCT / IB2020 / 051079. 2 Background technology 2.1 Technical Field

[0004] The present technology relates to one or more of the screening, diagnosis, monitoring, treatment, prevention and improvement of breathing-related disorders. The present technology also relates to medical devices or equipment and their uses.

[0005] 2.2 Description of Related Technology

[0006] 2.2.1 Human respiratory system and its diseases

[0007] The human respiratory system facilitates gas exchange. The nose and mouth form the entrance to the patient's airway.

[0008] The airway includes a series of branching tubes, which become narrower, shorter and more numerous as the branching tracheae penetrate deeper into the lungs. The main function of the lungs is gas exchange, allowing oxygen to move from the inhaled air to the venous blood and allowing carbon dioxide to move in the opposite direction. The trachea is divided into left and right main bronchi, which are eventually divided into terminal bronchioles. The bronchi constitute the conducting airways, but do not participate in gas exchange. Further branches of the airway lead to respiratory bronchioles and eventually to alveoli. The alveolar region of the lungs is the area where gas exchange occurs and is called the respiratory zone. See "Respiratory Physiology", 9th edition, published by John B.West, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins in 2012.

[0009] There is a range of respiratory disorders. Some disorders can be characterised by specific events such as apnea, hypopnea and hyperpnea.

[0010] Examples of breathing disorders include obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), Cheyne-Stokes respiration (CSR), respiratory insufficiency, obesity hyperventilation syndrome (OHS), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), neuromuscular disease (NMD), and chest wall disorders.

[0011] Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a form of sleep-disordered breathing (SDB), characterized by events including occlusion or obstruction of the upper airway during sleep. It is caused by a combination of an abnormally small upper airway and normal loss of muscle tone in the tongue, soft palate and posterior oropharyngeal wall area during sleep. The condition causes affected patients to stop breathing, typically for a period of 30 to 120 seconds, sometimes 200 to 300 times per night. This often leads to excessive daytime sleepiness and can lead to cardiovascular disease and brain damage. The syndrome is a common disease, especially in middle-aged overweight men, but the affected person may not be aware of this problem. See U.S. Patent No. 4,944,310 (Sullivan).

[0012] Cheyne-Stokes respiration (CSR) is another form of sleep-disordered breathing. CSR is a disorder of the patient's respiratory controller in which there is a rhythmic alternating cycle of boom-and-bust ventilation called a CSR cycle. CSR is characterized by repeated deoxygenation and reoxygenation of arterial blood. CSR may be harmful due to repeated hypoxia. In some patients, CSR is associated with repeated awakenings from sleep, which leads to severe sleep disruption, increased sympathetic nerve activity, and increased afterload. See U.S. Patent No. 6,532,959 (Berthon-Jones).

[0013] Respiratory failure is an umbrella term for respiratory diseases in which the lungs cannot take in enough oxygen or exhale enough CO2 to meet the patient's needs. Respiratory failure can include some or all of the following diseases.

[0014] Patients with respiratory insufficiency, a form of respiratory failure, may experience abnormal shortness of breath during exercise.

[0015] Obesity hyperventilation syndrome (OHS) is defined as the combination of severe obesity and chronic hypercapnia during wakefulness in the absence of other known causes of hypoventilation. Symptoms include dyspnea, morning headaches, and excessive daytime sleepiness.

[0016] Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) encompasses any of a group of lower airway diseases that have certain common features. These include increased resistance to air movement, prolonged expiratory phase of breathing, and loss of normal elasticity of the lungs. Examples of COPD are emphysema and chronic bronchitis. COPD is caused by chronic smoking (a major risk factor), occupational exposure, air pollution, and genetic factors. Symptoms include: dyspnea on exertion, chronic cough, and sputum production.

[0017] Neuromuscular disease (NMD) is a broad term that covers many diseases and ailments that damage muscle function directly through intrinsic muscle pathology or indirectly through neuropathology. Some NMD patients are characterized by progressive muscle damage, which leads to loss of walking ability, wheelchair use, dysphagia, respiratory muscle weakness, and ultimately death from respiratory failure. Neuromuscular diseases can be divided into rapidly progressive and slowly progressive: (i) rapidly progressive disease: characterized by muscle damage that worsens over several months and leads to death within a few years (e.g., amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) in adolescents; (ii) variable or slowly progressive disease: characterized by muscle damage that worsens over several years and only slightly shortens life expectancy (e.g., limb-girdle type, facioscapulohumeral type, and myotonic muscular dystrophy). Symptoms of respiratory failure in NMD include: increasing general weakness, dysphagia, dyspnea during exercise and at rest, fatigue, drowsiness, morning headache, and difficulty concentrating and mood changes.

[0018] Chest wall disease is a group of thoracic deformities that result in inefficient connections between the respiratory muscles and the thorax. These diseases are often characterized by restrictive defects and have the potential for long-term hypercapnic respiratory failure. Scoliosis and / or kyphoscoliosis can cause severe respiratory failure. Symptoms of respiratory failure include: dyspnea during exertion, peripheral edema, orthopnea, recurrent chest infections, morning headaches, fatigue, poor sleep quality, and loss of appetite.

[0019] A range of treatments have been used to treat or ameliorate such conditions. In addition, such treatments can be used to prevent breathing disorders in otherwise healthy individuals. However, these have a number of disadvantages.

[0020] 2.2.2 Treatment

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

[0022] Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy has been used to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The mechanism of action is that the continuous positive airway pressure acts as a pneumatic splint and can prevent upper airway occlusion, such as by pushing the soft palate and tongue forward and away from the posterior oropharyngeal wall. Treatment of OSA treated by CPAP can be voluntary, so if the patient finds the device used to provide such treatment to be any one or more of: uncomfortable, difficult to use, expensive, and unsightly, the patient may choose not to comply with the treatment.

[0023] Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) provides ventilation support to the patient through the upper airway to assist the patient's breathing and / or maintain adequate oxygen levels in the body by performing some or all of the work of breathing. Ventilatory support is provided via a non-invasive patient interface. NIV has been used to treat CSR and respiratory failure, such as OHS, COPD, NMD, and chest wall disease forms. In some forms, the comfort and effectiveness of these treatments can be improved.

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

[0025] 2.2.3 Treatment system

[0026] These therapies can be provided by a therapeutic system or device.Such systems and devices can also be used to screen, diagnose, or monitor a condition without treating it.

[0027] The therapy system may include a respiratory pressure therapy device (RPT device), air circuit, humidifier, patient interface, and data management.

[0028] 2.2.3.1 Patient interface

[0029] The patient interface can be used to engage the respiratory apparatus to its wearer, for example by providing an air flow to the entrance of the airway. The air flow can be provided to the patient's nose and / or mouth via a mask, to the mouth via a tube, or to the patient's trachea via a tracheostomy tube. Depending on the treatment to be applied, the patient interface can form a seal with, for example, an area of ​​the patient's face to facilitate the delivery of gas at a pressure that is sufficiently different from the ambient pressure (e.g., a positive pressure of approximately 10 cmH2O relative to the ambient pressure) to achieve the treatment. For other forms of treatment, such as oxygen delivery, the patient interface may not include a seal sufficient to facilitate the delivery of a gas supply at a positive pressure of approximately 10 cmH2O to the airway.

[0030] Certain other mask systems may not be functionally suitable for use in this field. For example, a purely decorative mask may not be able to maintain appropriate pressure. A mask system used for underwater swimming or diving may be configured to prevent the entry of water from a higher pressure outside, but will not maintain the internal air at a pressure higher than the ambient pressure.

[0031] Certain masks may be clinically undesirable for the present technology, for example if they block airflow through the nose and only allow it through the mouth.

[0032] Certain masks may be uncomfortable or impractical with the present technology if the patient is required to insert a portion of the mask structure into their mouth to create and maintain a seal with their lips.

[0033] Certain masks may not be practical for use while sleeping, such as when lying on your side in bed with your head on a pillow.

[0034] The design of a patient interface presents many challenges. The face has a complex three-dimensional shape. The size and shape of the nose and head vary greatly between individuals. Because the head is composed of bone, cartilage, and soft tissue, different areas of the face respond differently to mechanical forces. The jaw or mandible can move relative to other bones of the skull. The entire head can move during respiratory therapy.

[0035] As a result of these challenges, some masks suffer from one or more protruding, aesthetically undesirable, expensive, poorly fitting, difficult to use and uncomfortable problems, especially when worn for a long time or when the patient is not familiar with the system. The wrong size mask may lead to reduced compliance, reduced comfort and poor patient results. Masks designed only for pilots, masks designed as part of personal protective equipment (e.g., filtering masks), SCUBA masks, or masks for the administration of anesthetics are tolerable for their original applications, but despite this, such masks may be undesirably uncomfortable when worn for a long period of time (e.g., several hours). This discomfort may lead to reduced compliance of the patient to treatment. This is even more true if the mask is worn during sleep.

[0036] CPAP therapy is highly effective for treating certain respiratory conditions, provided the patient complies with the therapy. If the mask is uncomfortable or difficult to use, the patient may not comply with the therapy. Because patients are generally advised to clean their masks regularly, if the mask is difficult to clean (e.g., difficult to assemble or disassemble), the patient may not be able to clean their mask, and this may affect patient compliance.

[0037] While a mask used for other applications (such as a navigator) may not be suitable for treating sleep-disordered breathing, a mask designed to treat sleep-disordered breathing may be suitable for use in other applications.

[0038] For these reasons, patient interfaces for delivering CPAP during sleep have emerged as a distinct field.

[0039] 2.2.3.1.1 Sealing structure

[0040] The patient interface may include a seal-forming structure. Since the seal-forming structure is in direct contact with the patient's face, the shape and configuration of the seal-forming structure may directly affect the effectiveness and comfort of the patient interface.

[0041] 2.2.3.1.2 Positioning and stabilization

[0042] The seal-forming structure of the patient interface for positive air pressure therapy is subjected to the corresponding force of air pressure to break the seal. Therefore, various techniques have been used to position the seal-forming structure and keep it in a sealing relationship with the appropriate part of the face.

[0043] 2.2.3.2 Respiratory Pressure Therapy (RPT) Devices

[0044] A respiratory pressure therapy (RPT) device can be used alone or as part of a system to implement one or more of the above-mentioned various treatments, such as by operating the device to generate an air flow for delivery to an airway interface. The air flow can be pressurized. Examples of RPT devices include CPAP devices and ventilators.

[0045] 2.2.3.3 Humidifier

[0046] Delivering an air flow without humidification can result in airway drying. Use of a humidifier with an RPT device and a patient interface produces humidified gas that minimizes drying of the nasal mucosa and increases patient airway comfort. Additionally, in colder climates, warm air that is typically applied to the facial area in and around the patient interface is more comfortable than cool air.

[0047] 2.2.3.4 Data Management

[0048] There may be a clinical reason for obtaining data to determine whether a patient who has been prescribed a respiratory therapy has been "compliant," such as if the patient has used their RPT device in accordance with one or more "compliance rules." An example of a compliance rule for CPAP therapy is a requirement that, in order to be considered compliant, a patient use the RPT device for at least 4 hours a night on at least 21 of 30 consecutive days. To determine a patient's compliance, a provider of the RPT device (e.g., a healthcare provider) may manually obtain data describing treatment for a patient using the RPT device, calculate usage over a predetermined time period, and compare to the compliance rules. Once the healthcare provider has determined that the patient has used their RPT device in accordance with the compliance rules, the healthcare provider may notify a third party that the patient is compliant.

[0049] There may be other aspects of patient treatment that would benefit from communication of treatment data to a third party or external system.

[0050] Existing processes for communicating and managing such data may be one or more of expensive, time consuming, and prone to errors.

[0051] 2.2.3.5 Ventilation techniques

[0052] Some forms of therapy systems may include a vent to allow flushing of exhaled carbon dioxide. The vent may allow gas to flow from an interior space of the patient interface, such as a plenum, to the exterior of the patient interface, such as the surrounding environment. 3. Summary of the invention

[0053] The present technology is intended to provide a medical device for screening, diagnosing, monitoring, ameliorating, treating or preventing respiratory disorders with improved one or more of comfort, cost, efficacy, ease of use and manufacturability.

[0054] A first aspect of the present technology relates to a device for screening, diagnosing, monitoring, ameliorating, treating or preventing a respiratory disorder.

[0055] Another aspect of the present technology relates to methods for screening, diagnosing, monitoring, ameliorating, treating or preventing breathing disorders.

[0056] One aspect of some forms of the present technology is for providing methods and / or apparatus for improving patient compliance with respiratory therapy.

[0057] One aspect of the present technology relates to a device for providing positive pressure respiratory therapy to a patient breathing in a respiratory cycle, the device including an inspiratory part and an expiratory part, the device comprising: a controllable motor blower, which is configured to generate an air supply at a positive pressure relative to ambient pressure by rotating an impeller at an impeller speed, and in use, connecting the supply air at the positive pressure from the motor blower to a patient interface via an air circuit, wherein the air circuit includes a tubular structure.

[0058] One aspect of the present technology relates to a patient interface comprising: 1) an inflatable chamber that can be pressurized to a therapeutic pressure of at least 6 cmH2O above ambient air pressure, the inflatable chamber including an inlet port of the inflatable chamber, the size and structure of the inlet port of the inflatable chamber being determined to receive an air flow at the therapeutic pressure for patient breathing; 2) a seal-forming structure that is constructed and arranged to form a seal with an area of ​​the patient's face surrounding the patient's airway entrance, the seal-forming structure having holes therein so that the air flow at the therapeutic pressure is delivered to at least the entrance of the patient's nostrils, the seal-forming structure being constructed and arranged to maintain the therapeutic pressure in the inflatable chamber throughout the patient's breathing cycle in use; 3) a positioning and stabilizing structure that provides a force to maintain the seal-forming structure in a therapeutically effective position on the patient's head, the positioning and stabilizing structure including a strap that is constructed and arranged so that in use at least a portion covers an area of ​​the patient's head above the supra-ear point of the patient's head; and 4) a tubular structure that is used to deliver air to the inflatable chamber, the tubular structure having a circular braided structure.

[0059] One form of the present technology includes an air circuit for an air treatment device. The air circuit may include a tubular structure. The tubular structure may have a circular braided structure. The tubular structure may be seamless along the length of the tubular structure. The tubular structure may include a plurality of warp yarns and a plurality of weft yarns. The tubular structure may include a first weft yarn position, a second weft yarn position, a third weft yarn segment including at least one weft yarn position, and a fourth weft yarn position. The plurality of weft yarns may include a first weft yarn and a second weft yarn. The first weft yarn may be located in the first weft yarn position, adjacent to the second weft yarn in the second weft yarn position. The first weft yarn may be a first monofilament strand and the second weft yarn may be a second monofilament strand. The second weft yarn may be adjacent to at least one multifilament yarn in the third weft yarn segment. The first weft yarn may be located in the fourth weft yarn position.

[0060] The plurality of weft yarns may include a first monofilament weft yarn and a second monofilament weft yarn. The first monofilament weft yarn may be disposed adjacent to at least one non-monofilament weft yarn, and the second monofilament weft yarn may also be disposed adjacent to at least one non-monofilament weft yarn. The at least one non-monofilament yarn may be located between the first monofilament weft yarn and the second monofilament weft yarn.

[0061] In examples, (a) the diameter of the first monofilament strand can be 0.7 mm, (b) the plurality of warp yarns can include 252 warp yarns, (c) the outer diameter of the tubular structure can be greater than 18 mm, (d) the third weft yarn segment can include at least four weft yarn positions, (e) the plurality of warp yarns can be formed from the same material, (f) the at least four weft yarn positions can include a first weft yarn position, a second weft yarn position, a third weft yarn position, and a fourth weft yarn position, (g) the first yarn composition in the first weft yarn segment position can be the same as the fourth yarn composition in the fourth weft yarn segment position, and (h) the second yarn composition in the second weft yarn segment position can be the same as the third yarn composition in the third weft yarn segment position.

[0062] Another aspect of one form of the present technology includes an air circuit. The air circuit may include a tubular structure. The tubular structure may have a circular braided structure. The tubular structure may be seamless along the length of the tubular structure. The tubular structure may include a plurality of warp yarns and a plurality of weft yarns. The plurality of weft yarns may include a first monofilament weft yarn and a second monofilament weft yarn. The first monofilament weft yarn may be located adjacent to at least one non-monofilament weft yarn. The second monofilament weft yarn may also be located adjacent to at least one non-monofilament weft yarn. The at least one non-monofilament yarn may be located between the first monofilament weft yarn and the second monofilament weft yarn.

[0063] In an example according to the preceding paragraph, (a) the diameter of the first monofilament strand can be 0.7 mm, (b) the plurality of warp yarns can include 252 warp yarns, (c) the outer diameter of the tubular structure can be greater than 18 mm, (d) the third weft yarn segment can include at least four weft yarn positions, (e) the plurality of warp yarns can be formed of the same material, (f) the at least four weft yarn positions can include a first weft yarn position, a second weft yarn position, a third weft yarn position, and a fourth weft yarn position, (g) the first yarn composition in the first weft yarn segment position can be the same as the fourth yarn composition in the fourth weft yarn segment position, and (h) the second yarn composition in the second weft yarn segment position can be the same as the third yarn composition in the third weft yarn segment position, (i) the first non-monofilament yarn in the first weft yarn position has the same composition as the fourth non-monofilament yarn in the fourth weft yarn position, (j) the second non-monofilament yarn in the second weft yarn position has the same composition as the third non-monofilament yarn in the third weft yarn position, and (k) the first non-monofilament yarn is adjacent to the first monofilament yarn, and the fourth non-monofilament yarn is adjacent to the second monofilament yarn.

[0064] In one example, an air circuit may be included in a device for providing positive pressure respiratory therapy to a patient's breathing in a breathing cycle, the device including an inspiratory portion and an expiratory portion. The device may include a controllable motor blower configured to generate an air supply at a positive pressure relative to ambient pressure by rotating an impeller at an impeller speed. The device may include a housing for holding the motor blower. The housing may include an inlet and a patient connection port. The patient connection port may be configured to communicate the supply air under the positive pressure from the motor blower to a patient interface via the air circuit in use. The device may include a sensor to monitor at least one of the pressure and flow rate of the air supply under positive pressure and generate a sensor output. The device may include a controller configured to adjust the operating parameters of the motor blower according to the sensor output so as to maintain a minimum positive pressure in the patient interface during a treatment period by causing an increase in the impeller speed during the inspiratory portion of the breathing cycle and causing a reduction in the impeller speed during the expiratory portion of the breathing cycle.

[0065] In one example, an air circuit may be included in a patient interface. The patient interface may include a plenum chamber that may be pressurized to a treatment pressure that is at least 6 cmH2O higher than ambient air pressure. The plenum chamber may include a plenum chamber inlet port that is sized and configured to receive an air flow at the treatment pressure for the patient to breathe. The patient interface may include a seal-forming structure that is constructed and arranged to form a seal with an area of ​​the patient's face surrounding the patient's airway entrance. The seal-forming structure may have holes therein so that the air flow at the treatment pressure is delivered to at least the entrance of the patient's nostrils. The seal-forming structure may be constructed and arranged to maintain the treatment pressure in the plenum chamber throughout the patient's breathing cycle in use. The patient interface may include a positioning and stabilizing structure to provide a force to keep the seal-forming structure in a treatment-effective position on the patient's head. The positioning and stabilizing structure may include a lace. The lace may be constructed and arranged so that at least a portion of it covers an area of ​​the patient's head that is higher than the supra-ear point of the patient's head in use. The patient interface may include a vent structure to allow gases exhaled by the patient to flow continuously from the interior of the plenum chamber to the surrounding environment. The vent structure may be sized and shaped to maintain a therapeutic pressure in the plenum chamber in use. The patient interface may be configured to allow the patient to breathe from the surrounding environment through their mouth in the absence of a flow of pressurized air through the plenum inlet port, or the patient interface may be configured so that the patient's mouth is uncovered.

[0066] Another aspect of one form of the present technology includes a tubular structure for delivering air to an inflation chamber. The tubular structure may have a circular braided structure and include an outer surface and an inner surface. The tubular structure may have a circular braided structure having a weft density of at least 30 yarns per 10 cm and at least 168 warp yarns. The tubular structure may include a first weft yarn that is harder than an adjacent second yarn. The first weft yarn may resist occlusion of the tubular structure when subjected to a vertical force. The first yarn may be located between the warp yarns so that the first yarn is integrated into the braided structure of the tubular structure. The tubular structure may further include a sealing structure having an outer surface aligned with the inner surface of the tubular structure. The inner surface may define a channel of the tubular structure for guiding air. The channel may be configured to deliver air at a treatment pressure with a non-zero leakage rate.

[0067] In the example according to the previous paragraph, (a) the tubular structure can include 252 warp yarns, (b) the tubular structure can be formed continuously along the entire length of the tubular structure without a seam, and (c) the tubular structure can include at least two separate monofilament strands in the weft direction, wherein a first monofilament strand is positioned adjacent to the second monofilament strand.

[0068] In one example, a tubular structure may be included in a device for providing positive pressure respiratory therapy to a patient during a breathing cycle, the device comprising an inspiratory portion and an expiratory portion. The device may include a controllable motor blower configured to generate an air supply at a positive pressure relative to ambient pressure by rotating an impeller at an impeller speed. The device may include a housing for holding the motor blower. The housing may include an inlet and a patient connection port. The patient connection port may be configured to communicate the supply air under the positive pressure from the motor blower to a patient interface via an air circuit in use. The device may include a sensor to monitor at least one of the pressure and flow rate of the air supply under positive pressure and generate a sensor output. The device may include a controller configured to adjust the operating parameters of the motor blower according to the sensor output so as to maintain a minimum positive pressure in the patient interface during a treatment period by causing an increase in the impeller speed during the inspiratory portion of the breathing cycle and causing a decrease in the impeller speed during the expiratory portion of the breathing cycle.

[0069] In one example, the tubular structure may be included in a patient interface. The patient interface may include a plenum chamber that may be pressurized to a treatment pressure that is at least 6 cmH2O higher than ambient air pressure. The plenum chamber may include a plenum chamber inlet port, the size and structure of the plenum chamber inlet port being configured to receive an air flow at the treatment pressure for the patient to breathe. The patient interface may include a seal-forming structure that is constructed and arranged to form a seal with an area of ​​the patient's face surrounding the patient's airway entrance. The seal-forming structure may have holes therein so that the air flow at the treatment pressure is delivered to at least the entrance of the patient's nostrils. The seal-forming structure may be constructed and arranged to maintain the treatment pressure in the plenum chamber throughout the patient's breathing cycle in use. The patient interface may include a positioning and stabilizing structure to provide a force to keep the seal-forming structure in a treatment-effective position on the patient's head. The positioning and stabilizing structure may include a lace. The lace may be constructed and arranged so that at least a portion of it covers an area of ​​the patient's head that is higher than the supra-ear point of the patient's head in use. The patient interface may include a vent structure to allow gases exhaled by the patient to flow continuously from the interior of the plenum chamber to the surrounding environment. The vent structure may be sized and shaped to maintain a therapeutic pressure in the plenum chamber in use. The patient interface may be configured to allow the patient to breathe from the surrounding environment through their mouth in the absence of a flow of pressurized air through the plenum inlet port, or the patient interface may be configured so that the patient's mouth is uncovered.

[0070] Another aspect of one form of the present technology includes an air loop. The air loop may include a seamless textile tubular structure. The air loop may include an outer surface of the tubular structure that may be ribbed. The ribbed structure may be formed to have peaks and valleys. The weft yarns located at the peaks may have different elasticity than the weft yarns located at the valleys.

[0071] In the example according to the previous paragraph, (a) the elasticity of the weft yarn located at the peak can be less than the elasticity of the weft yarn located at the valley, and (b) the elasticity of the weft yarn located between the peak and the valley can be between the elasticity of the weft yarn located at the peak and the elasticity of the weft yarn located at the valley.

[0072] Another aspect of one form of the present technology includes an air circuit. The air circuit may include a sealing structure that covers the inner surface of the tubular structure to reduce air loss through the tubular structure. The weight of the sealing structure may be less than 75% of the weight of the tubular structure.

[0073] In the examples according to the preceding paragraph, (a) the sealing structure may be formed of silicone, (b) the sealing structure may be formed of acrylate, (c) the sealing structure may be applied to the inner surface by spraying, (d) the sealing structure may be formed separately and adhered to the inner surface, and (e) the tubular structure may be woven onto the sealing structure.

[0074] Another aspect of one form of the present technology includes an air circuit. The air circuit may include a seamless textile tubular structure. The air circuit may include an outer surface of the tubular structure that may be ribbed and an inner surface of the tubular structure that may be ribbed. The air circuit may include a sealing structure that covers the inner surface of the tubular structure to reduce air loss through the tubular structure. The weight of the sealing structure may be less than 75% of the weight of the tubular structure.

[0075] In an example according to the preceding paragraph, (a) the tubular structure may be a circular braided structure comprising monofilament and non-monofilament yarns, (b) the air circuit may be configured to deliver air to a patient at a therapeutic pressure, wherein the air circuit is configured to have a leak rate of less than 2.5 mL / min per meter when delivering air at the therapeutic pressure, (c) the tubular structure may be formed of a different material than the sealing structure, (d) the sealing structure may be formed of an elastomeric material, (e) a portion of an inner surface of the tubular structure may have a positive curvature at a first magnitude, wherein the sealing structure has an inner face and an outer face, the outer surface of the sealing structure may have a negative curvature at the first magnitude near the portion of the inner surface, and the inner face of the sealing structure may have a positive curvature of the first magnitude, and (f) the sealing structure may match a length of the inner surface of the tubular structure from a first rib to a second rib, wherein a thickness of the sealing structure may be substantially constant along the length from the first rib to the second rib.

[0076] In one example, an air circuit may be included in a device for providing positive pressure respiratory therapy to a patient's breathing in a breathing cycle, the device including an inspiratory portion and an expiratory portion. The device may include a controllable motor blower configured to generate an air supply at a positive pressure relative to ambient pressure by rotating an impeller at an impeller speed. The device may include a housing for holding the motor blower. The housing may include an inlet and a patient connection port. The patient connection port may be configured to communicate the supply air under the positive pressure from the motor blower to a patient interface via the air circuit in use. The device may include a sensor to monitor at least one of the pressure and flow rate of the air supply under positive pressure and generate a sensor output. The device may include a controller configured to adjust the operating parameters of the motor blower according to the sensor output so as to maintain a minimum positive pressure in the patient interface during a treatment period by causing an increase in the impeller speed during the inspiratory portion of the breathing cycle and causing a reduction in the impeller speed during the expiratory portion of the breathing cycle.

[0077] In one example, an air circuit may be included in a patient interface. The patient interface may include a plenum chamber that may be pressurized to a treatment pressure that is at least 6 cmH2O higher than ambient air pressure. The plenum chamber may include a plenum chamber inlet port that is sized and configured to receive an air flow at the treatment pressure for the patient to breathe. The patient interface may include a seal-forming structure that is constructed and arranged to form a seal with an area of ​​the patient's face surrounding the patient's airway entrance. The seal-forming structure may have holes therein so that the air flow at the treatment pressure is delivered to at least the entrance of the patient's nostrils. The seal-forming structure may be constructed and arranged to maintain the treatment pressure in the plenum chamber throughout the patient's breathing cycle in use. The patient interface may include a positioning and stabilizing structure to provide a force to keep the seal-forming structure in a treatment-effective position on the patient's head. The positioning and stabilizing structure may include a lace. The lace may be constructed and arranged so that at least a portion of it covers an area of ​​the patient's head that is higher than the supra-ear point of the patient's head in use. The patient interface may include a vent structure to allow gases exhaled by the patient to flow continuously from the interior of the plenum chamber to the surrounding environment. The vent structure may be sized and shaped to maintain a therapeutic pressure in the plenum chamber in use. The patient interface may be configured to allow the patient to breathe from the surrounding environment through their mouth in the absence of a flow of pressurized air through the plenum inlet port, or the patient interface may be configured so that the patient's mouth is uncovered.

[0078] Another aspect of one form of the present technology includes a device for providing positive pressure respiratory therapy to a patient's breathing in a breathing cycle, the device including an inspiratory portion and an expiratory portion. The device may include a controllable motor blower configured to generate an air supply at a positive pressure relative to ambient pressure by rotating an impeller at an impeller speed. The device may include a housing for holding the motor blower. The housing may include an inlet and a patient connection port. The patient connection port may be configured to communicate the supply air under the positive pressure from the motor blower to a patient interface via the air circuit in use. The device may include a sensor to monitor at least one of the pressure and flow rate of the air supply under positive pressure and generate a sensor output. The device may include a controller configured to adjust the operating parameters of the motor blower according to the sensor output so as to maintain a minimum positive pressure in the patient interface during the treatment period by causing an increase in the impeller speed during the inspiratory portion of the breathing cycle and causing a decrease in the impeller speed during the expiratory portion of the breathing cycle. The air circuit may include a tubular structure. The tubular structure may have a circular braided structure. The tubular structure may be seamless along the length of the tubular structure. The tubular structure may include a plurality of warp yarns and a plurality of weft yarns. The plurality of weft yarns may include a first monofilament weft yarn and a second monofilament weft yarn. The first monofilament weft yarn may be located adjacent to at least one non-monofilament weft yarn. The second monofilament weft yarn may also be located adjacent to at least one non-monofilament weft yarn. The at least one non-monofilament yarn may be located between the first monofilament weft yarn and the second monofilament weft yarn.

[0079] In an example according to the preceding paragraph, (a) the diameter of the first monofilament strand can be 0.7 mm, (b) the plurality of warp yarns can include 252 warp yarns, (c) the outer diameter of the tubular structure can be greater than 18 mm, (d) the third weft yarn segment can include at least four weft yarn positions, (e) the plurality of warp yarns can be formed of the same material, (f) the at least four weft yarn positions can include a first weft yarn position, a second weft yarn position, a third weft yarn position, and a fourth weft yarn position, (g) the first yarn composition in the first weft yarn segment position can be the same as the fourth yarn composition in the fourth weft yarn segment position, and (h) the second yarn composition in the second weft yarn segment position can be the same as the third yarn composition in the third weft yarn segment position, (i) the first non-monofilament yarn in the first weft yarn position has the same composition as the fourth non-monofilament yarn in the fourth weft yarn position, (j) the second non-monofilament yarn in the second weft yarn position has the same composition as the third non-monofilament yarn in the third weft yarn position, and (k) the first non-monofilament yarn is adjacent to the first monofilament yarn, and the fourth non-monofilament yarn is adjacent to the second monofilament yarn.

[0080] Another aspect of one form of the present technology includes a patient interface. The patient interface may include a plenum chamber that can be pressurized to a treatment pressure that is at least 6 cmH2O higher than ambient air pressure. The plenum chamber may include a plenum chamber inlet port that is sized and configured to receive an air flow at the treatment pressure for the patient to breathe. The patient interface may include a seal-forming structure that is constructed and arranged to form a seal with an area of ​​the patient's face surrounding the patient's airway entrance. The seal-forming structure may have holes therein so that the air flow at the treatment pressure is delivered to at least the entrance of the patient's nostrils. The seal-forming structure may be constructed and arranged to maintain the treatment pressure in the plenum chamber throughout the patient's breathing cycle in use. The patient interface may include a positioning and stabilizing structure to provide a force to keep the seal-forming structure in a treatment-effective position on the patient's head. The positioning and stabilizing structure may include a strap. The strap may be constructed and arranged so that at least a portion of it covers an area of ​​the patient's head that is higher than the supra-ear point of the patient's head in use. The patient interface may include a venting structure to allow gas exhaled by the patient to flow continuously from the interior of the plenum chamber to the surrounding environment. The ventilation structure can be sized and shaped to maintain the treatment pressure in the plenum in use. The patient interface can be configured to allow the patient to breathe from the surrounding environment through their mouth in the absence of a pressurized air flow through the plenum inlet port, or the patient interface can be configured so that the patient's mouth is not covered. A tubular structure for delivering air to the plenum. The tubular structure can have a circular braided structure and include an outer surface and an inner surface. The tubular structure can have a circular braided structure having a weft density of at least 30 yarns per 10 cm and at least 168 warp yarns. The tubular structure can include a first weft yarn that is harder than an adjacent second yarn. The first weft yarn can resist occlusion of the tubular structure when subjected to a vertical force. The first yarn can be located between the warp yarns so that the first yarn is integrated into the braided structure of the tubular structure. The tubular structure can further include a sealing structure having an outer surface aligned with the inner surface of the tubular structure. The inner surface can define a channel for guiding air in the tubular structure. The channel can be configured to deliver air at a therapeutic pressure with a non-zero leak rate.

[0081] In the example according to the previous paragraph, (a) the tubular structure can include 252 warp yarns, (b) the tubular structure can be formed continuously along the entire length of the tubular structure without a seam, and (c) the tubular structure can include at least two separate monofilament strands in the weft direction, wherein a first monofilament strand is positioned adjacent to the second monofilament strand.

[0082] Another aspect of one form of the present technology includes a device for providing positive pressure respiratory therapy to a patient's breathing in a breathing cycle, the device including an inspiratory portion and an expiratory portion. The device may include a controllable motor blower, the controllable motor blower being configured to generate an air supply at a positive pressure relative to ambient pressure by rotating an impeller at an impeller speed. The device may include a housing for holding the motor blower. The housing may include an inlet and a patient connection port. The patient connection port may be configured to communicate the supply air under the positive pressure from the motor blower to a patient interface via an air circuit in use. The device may include a sensor to monitor at least one of the pressure and flow rate of the air supply under positive pressure and generate a sensor output. The device may include a controller configured to adjust the operating parameters of the motor blower according to the sensor output so as to maintain a minimum positive pressure in the patient interface during the treatment period by causing an increase in the impeller speed during the inspiratory portion of the breathing cycle and causing a decrease in the impeller speed during the expiratory portion of the breathing cycle. The air circuit may include a seamless textile tubular structure. The air circuit may include an outer surface of the tubular structure that may be ribbed and an inner surface of the tubular structure that may be ribbed. The air circuit may include a sealing structure that covers the inner surface of the tubular structure to reduce air loss through the tubular structure. The weight of the sealing structure may be less than 75% of the weight of the tubular structure.

[0083] In an example according to the preceding paragraph, (a) the tubular structure may be a circular braided structure comprising monofilament and non-monofilament yarns, (b) the air circuit may be configured to deliver air to a patient at a therapeutic pressure, wherein the air circuit is configured to have a leak rate of less than 2.5 mL / min per meter when delivering air at the therapeutic pressure, (c) the tubular structure may be formed of a different material than the sealing structure, (d) the sealing structure may be formed of an elastomeric material, (e) a portion of an inner surface of the tubular structure may have a positive curvature at a first magnitude, wherein the sealing structure has an inner face and an outer face, the outer surface of the sealing structure may have a negative curvature at the first magnitude near the portion of the inner surface, and the inner face of the sealing structure may have a positive curvature of the first magnitude, and (f) the sealing structure may match a length of the inner surface of the tubular structure from a first rib to a second rib, wherein a thickness of the sealing structure may be substantially constant along the length from the first rib to the second rib.

[0084] Another aspect of one form of the present technology is a patient interface molded or otherwise constructed to have a peripheral shape that is complementary to the peripheral shape of the intended wearer.

[0085] One aspect of one form of the present technology is a method of making a device.

[0086] One aspect of some forms of the present technology is a medical device that is easy to use, for example, by a person without medical training, by a person with limited dexterity, vision, or by a person with limited experience in using medical devices of this type.

[0087] One aspect of one form of the present technology is a portable RPT device that can be carried by a person (e.g., within the person's home).

[0088] One aspect of one form of the present technology is a patient interface that can be cleaned at the patient's home, e.g., in soapy water, without the need for specialized cleaning equipment. One aspect of one form of the present technology is a humidifier canister that can be cleaned at the patient's home, e.g., in soapy water, without the need for specialized cleaning equipment.

[0089] The described methods, systems, devices, and apparatus may be implemented to improve the functionality of a processor, such as a processor of a dedicated computer, a respiratory monitor, and / or a respiratory therapy device. In addition, the described methods, systems, devices, and apparatus may provide improvements in the art of automated management, monitoring, and / or treatment of respiratory conditions, including, for example, sleep-disordered breathing.

[0090] Of course, a part of these aspects may form a sub-aspect of the present technology. In addition, each aspect in the sub-aspect and / or aspect may be combined in various ways, and also constitute other aspects or sub-aspects of the present technology.

[0091] Other features of the present technology will become apparent from consideration of the information contained in the following detailed description, abstract, drawings, and claims. 4. Description of the drawings

[0092] The present technology is illustrated by way of example and not limitation in the accompanying drawings in which like reference numerals indicate similar elements, including:

[0093] 4.1 Treatment system

[0094] Figure 1A A system is shown that includes a patient 1000 wearing a patient interface 3000 in the form of nasal pillows receiving a supply of air under positive pressure from a RPT device 4000. Air from the RPT device 4000 is humidified in a humidifier 5000 and delivered along an air circuit 4170 to the patient 1000. A bed partner 1100 is also shown. The patient sleeps in a supine sleeping position.

[0095] Figure 1BA system is shown that includes a patient 1000 wearing a patient interface 3000 in the manner of a nasal mask receiving a supply of air under positive pressure from a RPT device 4000. Air from the RPT device is humidified in a humidifier 5000 and delivered to the patient 1000 along an air circuit 4170.

[0096] Figure 1C A system is shown that includes a patient 1000 wearing a patient interface 3000 in the form of a full face mask receiving a supply of air under positive pressure from an RPT device 4000. Air from the RPT device is humidified in a humidifier 5000 and delivered to the patient 1000 along an air circuit 4170. The patient sleeps in a side-lying sleeping position.

[0097] 4.2 Respiratory system and facial anatomy

[0098] Figure 2A A schematic diagram of the human respiratory system including the nasal and oral cavities, larynx, vocal cords, esophagus, trachea, bronchi, lungs, alveolar sacs, heart, and diaphragm is shown.

[0099] Figure 2B A view of the human upper airway including the nasal cavity, nasal bones, external nasal cartilages, greater alar cartilages, nostrils, supralabial, infralabial, larynx, hard palate, soft palate, oropharynx, tongue, epiglottis, vocal cords, esophagus, and trachea is shown.

[0100] Figure 2C is a front view of the face with several surface anatomical features identified, including the upper lip, upper vermilion, lower vermilion, lower lip, mouth width, medial canthus, nasal wing, nasolabial fold, and corner of mouth. The directions of superior, inferior, radially inward, and radially outward are also indicated.

[0101] Figure 2D It is a side view of the head with several surface anatomical features labeled, including the glabella, nasal bridge point, nasal prominence point, subseptal point, supra-lip, sub-lip, supra-mental point, nasal ridge, nasal apex, supra-auricular point, and subauricular point. The superior-inferior and anterior-posterior directions are also indicated.

[0102] Figure 2E This is another lateral view of the head. The approximate location of the Frankfort horizontal plane and the nasolabial angle are indicated. The coronal plane is also indicated.

[0103] Figure 2F A bottom view of the nose is shown with several features identified, including the nasolabial folds, lower lip, upper vermillion, nostrils, inferior point of the nasal septum, columella, pronasal point, long axis of the nostrils, and midsagittal plane.

[0104] Figure 2G A side view of the nasal surface features is shown.

[0105] Figure 2HThe subcutaneous structures of the nose are shown, including the lateral cartilage, septal cartilage, greater alar cartilage, lesser alar cartilage, sesamoid cartilage, nasal bone, epidermis, adipose tissue, frontal process of the maxilla, and fibroadipose tissue.

[0106] Fig.2I The medial anatomy of the nose is shown approximately a few millimeters from the mid-sagittal plane, showing, among other things, the medial crus of the septal cartilage and the greater alar cartilage.

[0107] Figure 2J A frontal view of the skull is shown, including the frontal, nasal, and zygomatic bones. The nasal turbinates, as well as the maxilla and mandible are also indicated.

[0108] Figure 2K A side view of the skull with the outline of the head surface and several muscles is shown. The following bones are shown: frontal, sphenoid, nasal, zygomatic, maxillary, mandibular, parietal, temporal, and occipital. The mental protuberance is also indicated. The following muscles are shown: digastric, masseter, sternocleidomastoid, and trapezius.

[0109] Figure 2L An anterolateral view of the nose is shown.

[0110] 4.3 Patient Interface

[0111] Figure 3A A patient interface in the form of a nasal mask is shown in accordance with one form of the present technology.

[0112] Figure 3B A schematic diagram of a cross section through the structure at a point is shown. The outward normal at that point is indicated. The curvature at that point has a positive sign and is Figure 3C The curvature magnitude shown is relatively large in comparison.

[0113] Figure 3C A schematic diagram of a cross section through the structure at a point is shown. The outward normal at that point is indicated. The curvature at that point has a positive sign and is Figure 3B The curvature magnitude shown is relatively small in comparison.

[0114] Figure 3D A schematic diagram of a cross section through the structure at a point is shown. The outward normal at that point is indicated. The curvature at that point has a value of zero.

[0115] Figure 3E A schematic diagram of a cross section through the structure at a point is shown. The outward normal at that point is indicated. The curvature at that point has a negative sign and is Figure 3F The curvature magnitude shown is relatively small in comparison.

[0116] Figure 3FA schematic diagram of a cross section through the structure at a point is shown. The outward normal at that point is indicated. The curvature at that point has a negative sign and is Figure 3E The curvature magnitude shown is relatively large in comparison.

[0117] Figure 3G A cushion for a mask including two pillows is shown. The outer surface of the cushion is indicated. The edges of the surface are indicated. The dome and saddle areas are indicated.

[0118] Figure 3H A cushion for a mask is shown. The outer surface of the cushion is indicated. The edge of the surface is indicated. The path on the surface between points A and B is indicated. The straight-line distance between A and B is indicated. The two saddle areas and the dome area are indicated.

[0119] Fig. 3I A surface having a structure with a one-dimensional hole on the surface is shown. The plane curves shown form the boundaries of the one-dimensional hole.

[0120] Figure 3J Shown through Fig. 3I The surface shown is in the cross section of the structure. Fig. 3I A two-dimensional hole is defined in the structure.

[0121] Figure 3K Shows Fig. 3I A perspective view of the structure of includes two-dimensional holes and one-dimensional holes. Also shown is the Fig. 3I The surface of the two-dimensional holes is defined in the structure.

[0122] Figure 3L A mask with an inflatable bladder as cushion is shown.

[0123] Figure 3M Shown through Figure 3L FIG. 1 is a cross-section of a mask of FIG. 1 and shows the inner surface of the airbag. The inner surface defines a two-dimensional hole in the mask.

[0124] Figure 3N Shown by Figure 3L Another cross section of a mask of FIG. The inner surface is also indicated.

[0125] Fig.3O The left hand rule is shown.

[0126] Figure 3P The right hand rule is shown.

[0127] Figure 3Q The left ear is shown, including the left ear helix.

[0128] Figure 3R The right ear is shown, including the right ear helix.

[0129] Figure 3S A right-hand helix is ​​shown.

[0130] Figure 3T Views of a mask are shown including symbols for the twisting of the spatial curve defined by the edge of the sealing membrane in different regions of the mask.

[0131] Figure 3U A view of the plenum chamber 3200 is shown, showing the sagittal plane and the medial contact plane.

[0132] Figure 3V Shows Figure 3U A view of the rear of the plenum chamber. The view is oriented perpendicular to the median contact plane. Figure 3V The sagittal plane in the middle bisects the plenum into left-hand and right-hand sides.

[0133] Figure 3W Shown through Figure 3V The cross section of the gas-filled chamber is Figure 3V 32. The middle contact plane is perpendicular to the sagittal plane. The orientation of the middle contact plane corresponds to the orientation of the chord 3210, which lies on the sagittal plane and contacts the liner of the plenum at just two points on the sagittal plane, the upper point 3220 and the lower point 3230. Depending on the geometry of the liner in this area, the middle contact plane can be a tangent at the upper point and the lower point.

[0134] Figure 3X Shows Figure 3U The position of the inflatable chamber 3200 on the face when in use. When the inflatable chamber is in the use position, the sagittal plane of the inflatable chamber 3200 substantially coincides with the central sagittal plane of the face. When the inflatable chamber is in the use position, the median contact plane substantially corresponds to the "plane of the face". Figure 3X In the figure, the inflation chamber 3200 is the inflation chamber of the nasal mask, and the upper point 3220 is roughly located on the bridge of the nose, while the lower point 3230 is located on the lips.

[0135] 4.4RPT device

[0136] Figure 4A One form of RPT device according to the present technology is shown.

[0137] Figure 4Bis a schematic diagram of the pneumatic path of an RPT device in accordance with one form of the present technology. Upstream and downstream directions are indicated with reference to a blower and a patient interface. The blower is defined as upstream of the patient interface and the patient interface is defined as downstream of the blower, regardless of the actual flow direction at any particular moment. Items within the pneumatic path between the blower and the patient interface are downstream of the blower and upstream of the patient interface.

[0138] Figure 4C is a schematic diagram of the electrical components of an RPT device according to one form of the present technology.

[0139] 4.5 Humidifier

[0140] Figure 5A An isometric view of a humidifier according to one form of the present technology is shown.

[0141] Figure 5B An isometric view of a humidifier according to one form of the present technology is shown, showing the humidifier reservoir 5110 removed from the humidifier reservoir base 5130.

[0142] 4.6 Air circuit

[0143] Figure 6 An air circuit connected to a patient interface in accordance with one form of the present technology is shown.

[0144] Figure 7 Shown is a kinked air circuit during use of the therapeutic device.

[0145] Figure 8 An air circuit is shown during use of a therapeutic device on a patient in accordance with one form of the present technology.

[0146] Fig. 9 A patient is shown using a treatment device in accordance with one form of the present technology, the treatment device including an air circuit and a patient interface.

[0147] Fig.10 Shown is a magnified view of the air circuit deflecting when subjected to force from the patient.

[0148] Fig.11 One form of an air circuit according to one form of the present technology is shown.

[0149] Fig.12 Shown is a top view of a braiding machine in accordance with one form of the present technology.

[0150] Fig.13 Shown is a side view of a braiding machine in accordance with one form of the present technology.

[0151] Fig.14A braided structure according to one form of the present technology is shown.

[0152] Fig.15 A portion of a tubular structure according to one form of the present technology is shown.

[0153] Fig.16 A portion of a tubular structure according to one form of the present technology is shown.

[0154] Fig.17 A portion of a tubular structure in accordance with one form of the present technology is shown in a bent position.

[0155] Fig.17A An enlarged portion of the tubular structure is shown.

[0156] Fig.18 A portion of a tension-bearing tubular structure in accordance with one form of the present technology is shown.

[0157] Fig.19 A schematic diagram showing a portion of a configuration of a tubular structure according to one form of the present technology.

[0158] Fig. 20 A portion of another configuration of a tubular structure according to one form of the present technology is shown.

[0159] Fig.21 A schematic diagram showing a portion of another configuration of a tubular structure according to one form of the present technology.

[0160] Fig. 22 A schematic diagram showing a portion of another configuration of a tubular structure according to one form of the present technology.

[0161] Fig.23 A schematic diagram showing a portion of another configuration of a tubular structure according to one form of the present technology.

[0162] Fig.24 A schematic diagram showing a portion of another configuration of a tubular structure according to one form of the present technology.

[0163] Fig.25 A diagram showing various yarn compositions.

[0164] Fig.26 Diagram showing various shuttle arrangements for tubular structures with different yarn structures.

[0165] Fig. 27 A tubular structure formed from a number of warp yarns in accordance with one form of the present technology is shown.

[0166] Fig.28A tubular structure formed from a second number of warp yarns in accordance with one form of the present technology is shown.

[0167] Fig.29 A tubular structure formed from a third number of warp yarns in accordance with one form of the present technology is shown.

[0168] Fig.30 A schematic diagram of a portion of a tubular structure having a first weft yarn density in accordance with one form of the present technology is shown.

[0169] Fig.31 A schematic diagram of a portion of a tubular structure having a second weft yarn density in accordance with one form of the present technology is shown.

[0170] Fig.32 A schematic diagram showing a portion of a tubular structure having a third weft yarn density in accordance with one form of the present technology.

[0171] Fig.33 A schematic diagram of a portion of a tubular structure and a sealing structure according to one form of the present technology is shown.

[0172] Fig.34 A schematic diagram of a portion of a tubular structure and a sealing structure according to one form of the present technology is shown.

[0173] Fig.35 A selection matrix with various wire and shuttle configurations is shown. 5. Specific implementation methods Before describing the present technology in further detail, it should be understood that the present technology is not limited to the specific examples described herein, which may be varied. It should also be understood that the terminology used in the present disclosure is only for the purpose of describing the specific examples described herein and is not intended to be limiting.

[0175] The following description is provided in relation to various examples that may share one or more common features and / or characteristics. It should be understood that one or more features of any one example may be combined with one or more features of another example or other examples. In addition, in any of the examples, any single feature or combination of features may constitute another example.

[0176] 5.1 Treatment

[0177] In one form, the present technology includes a method for treating a breathing disorder comprising applying positive pressure to an airway entrance of a patient 1000 .

[0178] In certain examples of the present technology, a supply of air under positive pressure is provided to the patient's nasal passages via one or both nostrils.

[0179] In some examples of the present technology, mouth breathing is limited, restricted, or prevented.

[0180] 5.2 Treatment system

[0181] In one form, the present technology includes an apparatus or device for treating a respiratory disorder. The apparatus or device may include an RPT device 4000 for supplying pressurized air to a patient 1000 via an air circuit 4170 to a patient interface 3000 .

[0182] 5.3 Patient Interface

[0183] A non-invasive patient interface 3000 according to one aspect of the present technology includes the following functional aspects: a seal-forming structure 3100, an inflatable chamber 3200, a positioning and stabilizing structure 3300, a vent 3400, a connection port 3600 for connecting to a form of air circuit 4170, and a forehead support 3700. In some forms, the functional aspects may be provided by one or more physical components. In some forms, one physical component may provide one or more functional aspects. In use, the seal-forming structure 3100 is arranged to surround the entrance of the patient's airway to facilitate the supply of positive pressure air to the airway.

[0184] If a patient interface cannot comfortably deliver a minimum level of positive pressure to the airway, the patient interface may not be suitable for respiratory pressure therapy.

[0185] A patient interface 3000 in accordance with one form of the present technology is constructed and arranged to supply air at a positive pressure of at least 6 cmH2O relative to ambient.

[0186] A patient interface 3000 in accordance with one form of the present technology is constructed and arranged to supply air at a positive pressure of at least 10 cmH20 relative to ambient.

[0187] A patient interface 3000 in accordance with one form of the present technology is constructed and arranged to supply air at a positive pressure of at least 20 cmH20 relative to ambient.

[0188] 5.3.1 Sealing structure

[0189] In one form of the present technology, the seal-forming structure 3100 provides a target seal-forming area and may additionally provide a cushioning function. The target seal-forming area is the area on the seal-forming structure 3100 where sealing is likely to occur. The area where sealing actually occurs - the actual sealing surface - can vary from day to day and from patient to patient within a given course of treatment, depending on a number of factors including, for example, where the patient interface is placed on the face, the tension in the positioning and stabilizing structures, and the shape of the patient's face.

[0190] 5.3.1.1 Sealing mechanism

[0191] In one form, the seal forming structure includes a sealing flange that utilizes a pressure assisted sealing mechanism. In use, the sealing flange can easily respond to the system positive pressure inside the inflatable chamber 3200 acting on its bottom surface, so that it forms a tight sealing engagement with the face. The pressure assist mechanism can work together with the elastic tension in the positioning and stabilizing structure.

[0192] In one form, the seal forming structure 3100 includes a sealing flange and a support flange. The sealing flange includes a relatively thin member having a thickness of less than about 1 mm, such as about 0.25 mm to about 0.45 mm, which extends around the periphery of the plenum 3200. The support flange can be relatively thicker than the sealing flange. The support flange is disposed between the sealing flange and the edge of the plenum 3200 and extends at least a portion of the path around the periphery. The support flange is or includes a spring-like element and acts to support the sealing flange to prevent it from buckling during use.

[0193] 5.3.2 Positioning and stabilizing the structure

[0194] The seal-forming structure 3100 of a patient interface 3000 of the present technology may be maintained in a sealed position during use by a positioning and stabilising structure 3300 .

[0195] In one form, the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 provides a retaining force that is at least sufficient to overcome the positive pressure in the plenum 3200 to lift off the face.

[0196] In one form, the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 provides a retaining force to overcome the effects of gravity on the patient interface 3000 .

[0197] In one form, the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 provides a retaining force as a safety margin to overcome the potential effects of damaging forces on the patient interface 3000, such as from tube drag or accidental interference with the patient interface.

[0198] In one form of the present technology, a positioning and stabilizing structure 3300 is provided that is configured in a manner consistent with being worn by a patient while sleeping. In one example, the positioning and stabilizing structure 3300 has a low profile or cross-sectional thickness to reduce the perceived or actual bulk of the device. In one example, the positioning and stabilizing structure 3300 includes at least one strap having a rectangular cross-section. In one example, the positioning and stabilizing structure 3300 includes at least one flat strap.

[0199] 5.3.3 Ventilation

[0200] In one form, the patient interface 3000 includes a vent 3400 constructed and arranged to allow flushing of exhaled gases, such as carbon dioxide.

[0201] 5.3.4 Decoupling Structure

[0202] In one form, the patient interface 3000 includes at least one decoupling structure, such as a swivel or a ball and socket.

[0203] 5.3.5 Connection Port

[0204] The connection port 3600 allows connection to the air circuit 4170 .

[0205] 5.4RPT device

[0206] The RPT device 4000 according to one aspect of the present technology includes mechanical, pneumatic and / or electrical components and is configured to execute one or more algorithms, such as any of the methods described herein in whole or in part. The RPT device 4000 can be configured to generate an air flow for delivery to the airway of a patient, such as for treating one or more respiratory conditions described elsewhere in this document.

[0207] In one form, the RPT device 4000 is constructed and arranged to deliver air flow in the range of -20 L / min to +150 L / min while maintaining a positive pressure of at least 6 cmH2O, or at least 10 cmH2O, or at least 20 cmH2O.

[0208] The RPT device can have an outer housing 4010 formed in two parts: an upper portion 4012 and a lower portion 4014. In addition, the outer housing 4010 can include one or more panels 4015. The RPT device 4000 includes a chassis 4016 that supports one or more internal components of the RPT device 4000. The RPT device 4000 can include a handle 4018.

[0209] The pneumatic path of the RPT device 4000 may include one or more air path items, such as an inlet air filter 4112, an inlet muffler 4122, a pressure generator 4140 (e.g., a blower 4142) capable of supplying air at a positive pressure, an outlet muffler 4124, and one or more converters 4270, such as a pressure sensor 4272 and a flow sensor 4274.

[0210] One or more air path items may be located within a removable unitary structure, which will be referred to as a pneumatic block 4020. The pneumatic block 4020 may be located within the outer housing 4010. In one form, the pneumatic block 4020 is supported by or formed as part of the chassis 4016.

[0211] The RPT device 4000 may have a power supply 4210, one or more input devices 4220, a central controller, a treatment device controller, a pressure generator 4140, one or more protection circuits, a memory, a converter 4270, a data communication interface, and one or more output devices. The electrical components 4200 may be mounted on a single printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) 4202. In an alternative form, the RPT device 4000 may include more than one PCBA 4202.

[0212] 5.4.1 Mechanical and pneumatic components of RPT device

[0213] The RPT device may include one or more of the following components in one integral unit. In an alternative form, one or more of the following components may be located as respective separate units.

[0214] 5.4.1.1 Air filter

[0215] An RPT device according to one form of the present technology may include an air filter 4110, or multiple air filters 4110.

[0216] In one form, the inlet air filter 4112 is located at the beginning of the pneumatic path upstream of the pressure generator 4140 .

[0217] In one form, an outlet air filter 4114 , such as an antimicrobial filter, is positioned between the outlet of the pneumatic block 4020 and the patient interface 3000 .

[0218] 5.4.1.2 Silencer

[0219] An RPT device according to one form of the present technology may include a silencer 4120 , or a plurality of silencers 4120 .

[0220] In one form of the present technology, an inlet muffler 4122 is located in the pneumatic path upstream of the pressure generator 4140 .

[0221] In one form of the present technology, an outlet muffler 4124 is located in the pneumatic path between the pressure generator 4140 and the patient interface 3000 .

[0222] 5.4.1.3 Pressure generator

[0223] In one form of the present technology, the pressure generator 4140 for generating a positive pressure air flow or air supply is a controllable blower 4142. For example, the blower 4142 may include a brushless DC motor 4144 having one or more impellers housed in a blower housing (e.g., a volute). The blower is capable of delivering an air supply, for example, at a rate of up to about 120 liters per minute, at a positive pressure in the range of about 4 cmH2O to about 20 cmH2O, or in other forms up to about 30 cmH2O. The blower may be as described in any of the following patents or patent applications, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety: U.S. Patent No. 7,866,944; U.S. Patent No. 8,638,014; U.S. Patent No. 8,636,479; and PCT Patent Application Publication No. WO 2013 / 020167.

[0224] The pressure generator 4140 is under the control of the treatment device controller.

[0225] In other forms, the pressure generator 4140 may be a piston driven pump, a pressure regulator connected to a high pressure source (e.g., a compressed air reservoir), or a bellows.

[0226] 5.4.1.4 Converter

[0227] The transducer may be internal to the RPT device, or external to the RPT device. An external transducer may be located, for example, on or form part of an air circuit (e.g., a patient interface). An external transducer may be in the form of a non-contact sensor, such as a Doppler radar motion sensor that transmits or transfers data to the RPT device.

[0228] In one form of the present technology, one or more transducers 4270 are located upstream and / or downstream of the pressure generator 4140. The one or more transducers 4270 may be constructed and arranged to generate a signal representative of a characteristic of the air flow (e.g., flow rate, pressure, or temperature) at the point in the pneumatic path.

[0229] In one form of the present technology, one or more transducers 4270 may be located proximate to the patient interface 3000 .

[0230] In one form, the signal from converter 4270 may be filtered, such as by low pass, high pass, or band pass filtering.

[0231] 5.4.1.5 Anti-overflow valve

[0232] In one form of the present technology, an anti-spillback valve 4160 is positioned between the humidifier 5000 and the pneumatic block 4020. The anti-spillback valve is constructed and arranged to reduce the risk of water flowing upstream from the humidifier 5000 to the motor 4144, for example.

[0233] 5.5 Air circuit

[0234] The air circuit 4170 according to one aspect of the present technology is a conduit or tube that, when in use, is constructed and arranged to allow air flow to travel between two components, such as the RPT device 4000 and the patient interface 3000 .

[0235] Specifically, the air circuit 4170 can be fluidly connected to the outlet of the pneumatic block 4020 and the patient interface. The air circuit can be referred to as an air delivery tube. In some cases, there can be separate branches for the inspiratory and expiratory circuits. In other cases, a single branch is used.

[0236] In some forms, the air circuit 4170 may include one or more heating elements configured to heat the air in the air circuit, for example to maintain or increase the temperature of the air. The heating element may be in the form of a heating wire loop and may include one or more transducers, such as a temperature sensor. In one form, the heating wire loop may be helically wound around the axis of the air circuit 4170. The heating element may be in communication with a controller, such as a central controller 4230. An example of an air circuit 4170 including a heating wire loop is described in U.S. Patent 8,733,349, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Figure 6 As shown, the patient interface 3000 is attached to or coupled with the air circuit 4170 .

[0237] During use of the therapeutic device, the air circuit 4170 may cause discomfort to the user. For example, the air circuit 4170 may drag or pull along the patient interface and / or the RPT device 4000. The weight and / or flexibility or rigidity of the air circuit 4170 may affect the extent to which the RPT device 4000 and / or the patient interface 3000 are affected by the air circuit 4170. For example, if the air circuit 4170 is attached to the patient interface 3000 and to the RPT device 4000 and the air circuit 4170 is a rigid device, the movement of a patient wearing the patient interface 3000 may transmit forces through the air circuit 4170, thereby causing the RPT device 4000 to move and / or causing the patient interface 3000 to move. If the air circuit 4170 is more flexible, the patient's movement may cause the air circuit 4170 to flex or expand, causing the air circuit 4170 to absorb tension and the force directed to the RPT device and / or the patient interface is reduced compared to a more rigid air circuit 4170.

[0238] In addition, the weight of the air circuit 4170 may cause discomfort to the patient and may also affect the resistance associated with the air circuit 4170. The weight of the air circuit 4170 may interfere with the patient's natural movement when moving around, causing discomfort to the patient. Furthermore, an air circuit 4170 having a greater weight will also affect the patient interface 3000 and the RPT device 4000 if moved compared to a lighter air circuit 4170. A lighter air circuit 4170 may improve comfort and may therefore increase the likelihood that the patient will continue to receive treatment. By forming a light air circuit 4170, the patient may not feel the weight of the air circuit 4170, thereby allowing the patient to move freely.

[0239] Additionally, the patient may twist and bend as he moves around the air circuit 4170. In some forms, the air circuit 4170 may be kinked so that air is not allowed to travel through it, or air flow through the air circuit 4170 is reduced, such as Figure 7 When the air circuit 4170 becomes kinked and stops or reduces air flow to the patient, the patient may not receive enough air for treatment and may be awakened. A patient awakened by a kink may discontinue use of the treatment device. Thus, the kink-resistant air circuit 4170 can increase the likelihood that the patient will continue to receive treatment.

[0240] like Figure 8 As shown, during use of the treatment device, the patient may be positioned in different positions. An air circuit 4170 that is able to bend and rotate to accommodate such movement may be more comfortable for the patient than other forms of air circuits. Additionally, an air circuit that is able to bend and twist may perform better than other air circuits that may kink when bent or twisted.

[0241] While receiving treatment, the patient can move around, for example, during sleep. In some cases, the patient can rely on air circuit 4170. For example, Fig. 9 As shown, the patient 1000 can wrap the air circuit 4170 under his or her arm, causing a force to be applied downward or perpendicular to the air circuit 4170. Such a force can cause the air circuit 4170 to block or reduce the cross-sectional area of ​​the airflow to the patient interface 3000. The cessation or reduction of airflow can cause the patient to wake up during use of the therapeutic device. If the patient continues to wake up while using the therapeutic device, the patient can stop using the device. The air circuit 4170 is formed so that the air circuit 4170 resists, for example, Fig.10 The occlusion depicted in FIG. 3004 may allow air to continue to flow to the patient interface 3000 so that the patient can continue to receive adequate therapy. Fig.10 As shown, the air circuit 4170 can be configured to deflect to accommodate the patient's arm. Fig.10In the configuration shown, the air circuit 4170 is not a rigid structure, but the air circuit 4170 has sufficient rigidity to resist collapse of the air circuit 4170 so as to continue to provide pressurized air to the patient. Such a configuration can increase the likelihood that the patient will continue to use the treatment device.

[0242] The patient may also stop using the treatment device if the materials forming the different components of the air circuit 4170 are uncomfortable for the patient. For example, abrasive materials that may rub against the patient's skin may cause the patient to stop using the device. Soft materials (e.g., cotton) or wicking materials (e.g., polyester) may comfortably contact the patient, making the patient more likely to continue using a treatment device that utilizes comfortable materials.

[0243] A particular arrangement of the material, such as in a woven, non-woven, braided, knitted or other web, may also increase comfort while maintaining the integrity of the air circuit 4170 to encourage the patient to continue using the treatment device.

[0244] In addition to providing comfort to the patient, the air circuit 4170 can also be configured to be airtight. By forming the air circuit 4170 as an airtight tube, air can be consistently and accurately delivered to the patient for treatment. The air circuit 4170 can be formed using a braided structure formed in a tubular manner to form a tubular structure. In some forms, the tubular structure can be coated with silicone or acrylate or other sealing members, such as biocompatible materials. In other forms, a silicone tube or other airtight tube can be braided with a braided tubular structure in an overlapping manner. In a further form, the braided tubular structure can be placed on a silicone or other airtight tube, such as a sleeve. The tubular structure can be fixed in place so that the tubular structure and the airtight tube are formed as a single integral piece.

[0245] In addition to providing an airtight tube, the silicone or other sealing member can help manage humidity and condensation within the air circuit 4170. By including a sealing layer, any condensation can be prevented from leaking through the tubular structure. If the air circuit 4170 is damp or wet, the patient may stop using the treatment device. Therefore, by providing a dry outer surface of the air circuit 4170, the sealing member can help maintain consistent use by the patient.

[0246] In some forms, the air circuit 4170 may include additional features to attach to the RPT device 4000 and the patient interface 3000. Fig.11As shown, the air circuit 4170 is isolated from the RPT device 4000 and the patient interface 3000. As shown, the air circuit 4170 includes a tubular structure 4600 and a connector 4670 and a connector 4672. In some forms, the connector 4670 can be configured to connect to the RPT device 4000 and the connector 4672 is configured to connect to the patient interface 3000, so as to allow air to flow from the RPT device 4000 to the patient interface 3000. In some forms, the connectors are permanently attached to the tubular structure 4600. However, in other forms, these connectors may be removable from the tubular structure 4600, for example for cleaning purposes. The connection between the air circuit 4170 and other components of the air treatment device can be changed or altered depending on the design of the device. For example, a pressure fit connection, a snap connection, or other connection can be utilized.

[0247] The tubular structure 4600 may be formed of a woven, braided, knitted, or non-woven structure. Additionally, the tubular structure 4600 may include means for forming an airtight tube to transmit pressurized air from the RPT device 4000 to the patient interface 3000 .

[0248] 5.5.1 Braiding machine

[0249] In some forms of the present technology, various machines may be used to form a tubular structure for use with the air circuit 4170. Such machines may include circular braiding machines, circular knitting machines, and circular weaving machines. Additionally, although discussed as forming a continuous tubular structure, a machine that forms a flat fabric or other material may be used to form an interlocking web of fibers. For example, a flat loom or weaving machine may be used. The flat material may be rolled up and sewed or otherwise secured to itself to form a tubular structure. As described in this detailed description, a circular weaving machine is used.

[0250] See now Fig.12 and 13 , depicts a circular knitting machine 4700. Knitting machine 4700 includes a plurality of shuttles, for example, one to three shuttles may be used. In addition, four to six shuttles may be used. Other forms with more than six shuttles may also be used. For example, six to twelve shuttles may be used. For example, in Fig.12 In the embodiment, six shuttles 4702 are used, on which bobbins 4704 are positioned, which hold yarns to be placed between the warp yarns used to form the tubular structure 4600. Although six shuttles 4702 are shown, in other forms, a greater or lesser number of shuttles may be used. As shown, the braiding machine 4700 includes a first shuttle 4710, a second shuttle 4711, a third shuttle 4712, a fourth shuttle 4713, a fifth shuttle 4714, and a sixth shuttle 4715. The shuttles 4702 place the weft yarns 4606 between the warp yarns 4604 fed into the braiding machine 4700 (see Fig.14). When weft yarns 4606 are woven between warp yarns 4606, tubular structure 4600 is formed. Thus, tubular structure 4600 can be formed continuously along its length without seams. This tubular structure 4600 formed from a circular braided structure is pulled away from braiding machine 4700 and can be wound on a wheel or cut off for further processing.

[0251] The braided structure formed by the braiding machine 4700 is impacted or affected by a specific number of shuttles and spools. Because the braiding machine 4700 includes a shuttle 4702 that rotates around an orbit, the pattern of the line located in the shuttle 4702 will be repeated along the length of the tube formed by the braiding machine 4700. For example, the first yarn type can be located on the spools of the first shuttle 4710, the second shuttle 4711, and the third shuttle 4712. The second different yarn type can be located on the spools of the fourth shuttle 4713, the fifth shuttle 4714, and the sixth shuttle 4715. When the braiding machine 4700 is used, a pattern of weft yarns repeated on the length of the tubular structure formed by the braiding machine 4700 is formed. For example, the first yarn type is located at three adjacent weft yarn positions. Then the second yarn type is located at three adjacent weft yarn positions. The pattern continues along the length of the tubular structure. It should be recognized that the starting point of the pattern can change. For example, with the same yarn configuration as described above in shuttle 4702, the weft pattern of the structure formed by these yarns can begin with two yarns of the first yarn type, then continue with three yarns of the second yarn type, and end with one yarn of the first yarn type.

[0252] As shown, the pattern subset can be changed depending on the point at which the pattern starts. In addition, there can also be a smaller pattern subset. For example, the bobbin on the first shuttle 4710 can include the yarn of the first yarn type, the bobbin on the second shuttle 4711 can include the yarn of the second yarn type, the bobbin on the third shuttle 4712 can include the yarn of the first yarn type, the bobbin on the fourth shuttle 4713 can be the yarn of the first yarn type, the bobbin on the fifth shuttle 4714 can include the yarn of the second yarn type, and the bobbin on the sixth shuttle 4715 can include the yarn of the first yarn type. In this example, the weft pattern on the tubular structure formed by the braiding machine 4700 can include the first yarn type, the second yarn type and the first yarn type. Therefore, the pattern can be considered as a three-yarn pattern. However, the pattern can also be considered as the first yarn type, the second yarn type, and the first yarn type, the first yarn type, the second yarn type, and the first yarn type. Therefore, the pattern can also be considered as a six-weft pattern.

[0253] refer to Fig.12 and Fig.13 , describes the operation of knitting machine 4700. Fig.12As shown, warp yarns 4604 extend generally vertically out of the paper. During the formation of tubular structure 4600, warp yarns 4604 may remain substantially stationary in the transverse direction. However, during the process of forming tubular structure 4600, warp yarns 4604 may be pulled out of the paper or tightened in the vertical direction. Although shown with 6 warp yarns, in some forms, weaving machine 4700 may be equipped with 168, 252, or 336 warp yarns. In other forms, weaving machine 4700 may include 50 to 500 warp yarns. Shuttle 4702 carries yarn that is placed as weft yarn. The weft yarn is placed between warp yarns 4604. For example, as Fig.13 As shown, the sixth shuttle 4715 places the weft yarn 4609 between the warp yarns 4604. After the six shuttles 4715 have passed, the warp yarn 4606 can switch sides so that the next yarn placed is woven between the warp yarns 4604. This action continues until the desired length of the tubular structure 4600 is formed. In this way, the weft yarns are placed between the warp yarns. By using a large number of warp yarns, the weft yarns can be substantially covered by the warp yarns. In this way, the weft yarns can be spaced apart from the inner and outer surfaces of the tubular structure 4600. Therefore, if the weft yarns are formed of a plastic material such as polyamide, the patient will not feel the weft yarn polyamide against the patient's skin because the warp yarns can cover the weft yarns.

[0254] In some forms, the speed at which various procedures are performed will affect the structure of the tubular structure 4600. For example, the feed speed or the removal speed can refer to the speed at which the tubular structure 4600 is pulled away from the braiding machine 4700. As shown, the feed direction 4750 is the direction in which the tubular structure 4750 is pulled or tensioned. Changing the feed speed can change the construction of the tubular structure 4600 by changing the weft density in the tubular structure 4600. For example, if there is a faster feed speed, less weft can be placed compared to a slower feed speed. In addition, changing the shuttle speed can also affect the structure of the tubular structure 4600. The shuttle speed can refer to the speed at which the shuttle 4702 travels around the braiding machine 4700. The faster the shuttle 4702 travels, the greater the weft density of the tubular structure 4600. Therefore, the feed speed and the shuttle speed can be changed to form a specific tubular structure 4600.

[0255] In some forms, the tension within the weft yarns 4606 and the warp yarns 4604 may be varied or altered to form a tubular structure having specific characteristics. In some forms, certain yarns from the shuttle 4702 may be in greater tension during manufacture than other yarns from the shuttle 4702. By varying the tension of the weft yarns 4606, the shape and other characteristics of the tubular structure 4600 may be varied or adjusted. In further forms, the warp yarn tension may also be varied or adjusted during manufacture to provide the tubular structure 4600 with a specific shape or other characteristics.

[0256] In some forms, braiding machine 4700 may include a device to provide support for tubular structure 4600 during manufacturing. In some forms, braiding machine 4700 may include a form such as needle 4752. When the weft yarn and the warp yarn are woven together, the yarn can be pressed against needle 4752. Therefore, needle 4752 can provide a surface on which the yarn can rest. In some forms, needle 4752 can provide a form that defines the shape of tubular structure 4600.

[0257] 5.5.2 Textile structures

[0258] In one form of the present technology, a textile, fabric, or other web is used in forming the air circuit 4170. The webs may interact with each other to form a tubular structure, such as Fig.15 Tubular structure 4600 is shown. Tubular structure 4600 is depicted as having a substantially flat or constant outer surface. This figure is used for descriptive purposes and for visualizing the tubular structure. However, tubular structure 4600 may be, for example, Fig.16 The ribbed structure shown. In some forms, a flat woven structure can be formed and then sewn together along the seams to form the tubular structure. In other forms, a flat knit can be used. In further forms, non-woven materials such as felt can be used. In further forms, plaiting, circular knitting, or circular weaving can be used to form portions of the air loop 4170 to form a seamless tubular structure 4600. As shown in the figures and discussed in this detailed description, the tubular structure 4600 is formed using circular weaving, however, as previously discussed, other forms of the present technology may utilize various other forms of interaction of the fiber webs.

[0259] Utilizing a circular weave pattern allows the use of yarns or strands extending in the warp (generally vertical) or weft (generally horizontal) direction. As used throughout this detailed description, yarn may refer to weft or warp. In addition, the term "yarn" may refer to a strand formed by a monofilament or multifilament fiber. For example, a warp may be formed by a multifilament strand, so that the warp is a multifilament yarn. However, in other forms, the warp may be formed by a single monofilament strand or filament, however, this single strand may also be referred to as a yarn.

[0260] See also Fig.14, a woven structure 4602 for forming a tubular structure 4600 is depicted in detail. As shown, the woven structure 4602 includes a plurality of warp yarns 4604 and a plurality of weft yarns 4606. These warp yarns 4604 extend substantially vertically along the length of the tubular structure 4600. Therefore, the warp yarns 4604 extend substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis extending through the tubular structure 4600. The term vertical is used to describe the orientation of the warp yarns 4604 when the tubular structure 4600 is longitudinally oriented in a vertical direction. It should be understood that when the tubular structure 4600 is longitudinally oriented in a horizontal direction, the warp yarns 4604 will be oriented in a horizontal direction. The term "vertical" is used to describe the relationship between the warp yarns 4604 and the weft yarns 4606. The term vertical is used to describe the orientation of the warp yarns 4604 when the tubular structure 4600 is longitudinally oriented in a vertical direction. It should be understood that when the tubular structure 4600 is longitudinally oriented in a horizontal direction, the warp yarns 4604 will be oriented in a substantially horizontal direction. The warp yarns 4604 are oriented so that each yarn extends from the lower edge 4608 to the upper edge 4610 without wrapping around the tubular structure 4600. For example, the warp yarns 4605 extend directly from the lower edge 4608 to the upper edge 4610 in a vertical direction. In this form, the warp yarns 4605 do not wrap around the circumference of the tubular structure 4600, but are located at substantially the same circumferential position along the length of the tubular structure 4600. Although depicted as a portion of the tubular structure 4600, the same configuration may exist along the length of the tubular structure 4600.

[0261] Instead, the weft yarn 4606 is wound around the circumference of the tubular structure 4600. While the weft yarn 4606 may begin at the lower edge 4608 and end at the upper edge 4610, the weft yarn 4606 does not extend directly from the lower edge 4608 to the upper edge 4610. As the weft yarn 4606 spirals around the circumference of the tubular structure 4600, the weft yarn 4606 may serve to provide a support structure for the tubular structure 4600 so that the tubular structure 4600 does not collapse in on itself. The spiraling and spiraling angles of the weft yarn 4606 will be discussed in more detail below.

[0262] In addition, although Fig.14 Only a portion of the braided structure 4602 of the tubular structure 4600 is shown, but in some forms, substantially all of the outer surface of the tubular structure 4600 includes the braided structure 4602. In other forms, half of the outer surface of the tubular structure includes the braided structure 4602. In further forms, less than half of the outer surface of the tubular structure 4600 includes the braided structure 4602. The same or similar percentages may apply to other configurations of the fiber optic network. For example, substantially all, more than half, or less than half of the tubular structure 4600 can be formed of circular knitting, circular braiding, or non-woven materials.

[0263] In addition, although the upper edge 4610 and the lower edge 4608 are described, it should be appreciated that the warp yarns need not extend to any edge to be considered as warp yarns. For example, the warp yarns can terminate spaced apart from the edge of the tubular structure 4600.

[0264] In some forms, weft yarn 4606 can be completely wrapped around tubular structure 4600. For example, weft yarn 4607 is wrapped around tubular structure 4600 such that weft yarn 4607 is located at at least two locations along the length of tubular structure 4600. As shown, weft yarn 4607 is located at a first weft yarn location 4612 and is also located at a second weft yarn location 4614 that is spaced apart from first weft yarn location 4612. Fig.14 In the illustrated form, another five weft yarns 4606 are located between weft yarn 4607 as a first weft yarn position 4612 and weft yarn 4607 as a second weft yarn position 4614. This is in contrast to warp yarns 4604, which remain in substantially the same circumferential position along the length of woven structure 4602. That is, warp yarns 4604 maintain their position along the length of woven structure 4602. For example, weft yarn 4605 extends substantially perpendicularly along the length of weft yarn 4605 and woven structure 4602.

[0265] The weft yarns of the circular knitting material extend in a continuous spiral along the length of the material. Therefore, the weft yarns may not be exactly horizontal or perpendicular to the warp yarns. This allows the weft yarns to be fed continuously through the circular knitting machine without causing breaks in the weft yarns, and allows the weft yarns to be incrementally and continuously spaced along the length of the material (in this application, the tube).

[0266] Compared to warp yarns 4604, the angle of weft yarns 4606 can be changed according to many factors and variables. That is, during the manufacturing process, by manipulating various components of knitting machine 4700, the angle of the spiral characteristics of weft yarns 4606 can be changed or altered. For example, changing the speed at which shuttle 4702 rotates around knitting machine 4700 can affect the angle at which weft yarns 4606 are positioned relative to warp yarns 4604. For a given take-out or feed speed of warp yarns 4604, slowly rotating shuttle 4702 around knitting machine 4700 will result in an increase in angle A between warp yarns 4604 and weft yarns 4606. Similarly, rotating shuttle 4702 around knitting machine 4700 at a faster speed at a given output speed will result in a smaller angle A between warp yarns 4604 and weft yarns 4606. The angle between warp yarns 4604 and weft yarns 4606 can also be affected by the take-out or feed speed of warp yarns 4604 through knitting machine 4700. Increasing the feed speed of warp yarns 4604 for a given rotational speed of shuttle 4702 will result in a larger angle A between warp yarns 4604 and weft yarns 4606 of woven structure 4602. Likewise, decreasing the feed speed of warp yarns 4604 for a given rotational speed of shuttle 4702 will result in a smaller angle A between warp yarns 4604 and weft yarns 4606 of woven structure 4602. Thus, the angles of warp yarns 4604 and weft yarns 4606 can be adjusted during the weaving process.

[0267] In some forms, angle A may be between 0 and 45 degrees. In other forms, angle A may be between 0 and 5 degrees or between 0 and 10 degrees. In further forms, angle A may be a non-zero angle. In other forms, angle A may be between 5 and 25 degrees. In further forms, angle A may be between 25 and 45 degrees. In some forms, angle A may be greater than 90 degrees. For example, based on Fig.14 In the embodiment of the present invention, the angle A of the weft yarn 4606 and the warp yarn 4604 can be arranged at a position of about 95 degrees. In other forms, the angle A can be an angle other than 90 degrees, so that the weft yarn 4606 and the warp yarn 4604 are not completely perpendicular to each other. In other forms, the angle A can be between 90 degrees and 135 degrees. In further forms, the angle A can be between 95 degrees and 105 degrees. In other forms, the angle A can be between 105 degrees and 135 degrees. In further forms, the angle A can be between 135 degrees and 150 degrees. In further forms, the angle A can be between 150 degrees and 165 degrees or more.

[0268] The wire material used to form the air circuit 4170 can be different in the warp and weft directions. In other forms, the wire material can be the same. In addition, the same type of yarn can be used. For example, the wire can have the same denier (the mass of the yarn in grams per 9,000 meters long), decitex or fineness (the mass of the yarn in grams per 10,000 meters long), specification, diameter, texture, insulation properties and other properties. In some forms of the present technology, different yarns or monofilament strands are used in the weft and warp directions. These different yarns can allow different properties of the tubular structure 4600. For example, the warp yarn can allow the stretchability and flexibility of the tubular structure 4600. The weft yarn can limit occlusion during the use of the tubular structure 4600. In addition, the tensile strength and hardness of the material can be changed to achieve specific properties in the air circuit 4170.

[0269] In some forms, various configurations and arrangements of weft and warp can be used. For example, in some forms, the weft can be stretchable or elastic in a first direction and provide stretch resistance in another direction. In addition, in some forms, when compared with other positions of the woven structure 4602, the specific position of the woven structure 4602 can allow greater stretching. By using different strands with different material properties, the features and characteristics of the woven structure 4602 can be changed or adjusted according to manufacturing needs. In a further form, these warp yarns can change according to the specific characteristics desired by the woven structure 4602. For example, warp yarn 4605 and two adjacent warp yarns can be formed by non-extensible materials. In this position, the woven structure 4602 can be substantially inextensible along the length. However, adjacent warp yarns can have different characteristics that allow stretching. In this way, the woven structure 4602 and therefore the structure in combination with the woven structure 4602 can have specific characteristics at a specific position, such as stretch characteristics.

[0270] like Fig.14 As shown, the warp yarns 4604 and the weft yarns 4606 are formed with substantially similar sizes and shapes. This configuration is shown for illustrative purposes only. Although the tubular structure 4600 may be used, for example Fig.14 , but the tubular structure 4600 may utilize, for example, Figure 19-24 That is, weft yarns of different sizes and materials can be used. In addition, although warp yarns of the same size are depicted and described, in other forms, warp yarns of different sizes and properties can be used.

[0271] like Fig.14As shown, weaving structure 4602 depicts a plain weave configuration. This means that the warp and weft yarns travel over and under each other one at a time. For example, warp yarn 4605 travels under weft yarn 4607 and first weft yarn position 4612. Warp yarn 4605 traveling upward then passes over the adjacent weft yarn, then travels under the next adjacent weft yarn, and so on. Warp yarns adjacent to warp yarn 4605 have the opposite configuration. For example, the adjacent warp yarn passes over weft yarn 4607 at the first weft yarn position 4612, then under the next adjacent weft yarn, then passes over the next adjacent weft yarn, and so on. Similarly, weft yarns follow the same weft yarn one after another in the configuration. For example, weft yarn 4607 in the first weft yarn position 4612 passes over warp yarn 4605, then under the next adjacent warp yarn, then passes over the next adjacent warp yarn, and so on. Warp yarns adjacent to warp yarn 4605 have the opposite configuration. Other configurations are possible, such as basket weave, satin weave, twill weave, and other weaves or combinations of weaves.

[0272] As described in this detailed description, when a warp yarn is said to be adjacent to another warp yarn, the adjacent yarns will be in different orientations about the top or bottom of the weft yarn. For example, warp yarn 4605 is adjacent warp yarn 4603. However, as previously mentioned, the weft yarn 4607 in the first weft yarn position 4612 passes above the warp yarn 4605 and below the adjacent warp yarn 4603. However, in other structures, adjacent warp yarns can all be located under or on the same weft yarn. This configuration can, for example, occur with a square weave configuration. It should be appreciated that for weft yarns, the same or similar configuration is correct. That is, when a weft yarn is adjacent to another weft yarn, the adjacent yarns will be in different orientations about the top or bottom of the warp yarn.

[0273] 5.5.3 Tubular structure

[0274] The tubular structure 4600 formed by the woven structure 4602 including both warp yarns and weft yarns forms a portion of the air circuit 4170. As described above, the tubular structure 4600 can include warp yarns and weft yarns of different sizes and shapes. Fig.15 As shown, the tubular structure 4600 is formed to have a substantially constant inner and outer diameter. Fig.15 4600 is depicted in , to illustrate possible orientations or views of the tubular structure 4600. Although shown with a constant diameter, the tubular structure 4600 may be formed with various diameters along its length.

[0275] The tubular structure 4600 can be formed with various cross-sectional dimensions. In some forms, the outer boundary of the outer diameter of the tubular structure 4600 is 18 millimeters. In other forms, the maximum outer diameter of the tubular structure 4600 is 20 millimeters. In further forms, the outer diameter of the tubular structure 4600 is 15 millimeters or less. In other forms, the maximum outer diameter of the tubular structure 4600 is greater than 18 millimeters and / or greater than 20 millimeters. For example, the maximum outer diameter can be between 35 and 60 millimeters or between 50 and 80 millimeters. The inner diameter can also include different sizes. In some forms, the inner boundary of the inner diameter of the tubular structure 4600 is about 15 millimeters. In other forms, the inner diameter of the tubular structure 4600 is between 15 and 18 millimeters. In further forms, the inner diameter of the tubular structure 4600 is between 18 and 20 millimeters. In further forms, the inner diameter of the tubular structure 4600 is greater than 20 millimeters. For example, the inner diameter of the tubular structure 4600 is between 20 and 50 mm or between 30 and 75 mm. In other forms, the inner diameter of the tubular structure 4600 is less than 15 mm. The inner and outer diameters of the tubular structure 4600 can be modified according to the amount of air to be passed through the air circuit 4170.

[0276] In some forms, the diameter of the tubular structure 4600 can vary along its length. In some forms, the tubular structure 4600 can have a variable outer diameter. In other forms, the tubular structure 4600 can have a variable inner diameter. In further forms, the tubular structure 4600 can have a variable inner diameter and a variable outer diameter. For example, Fig.16 As shown, the inner and outer diameters of the tubular structure 4600 are variable along the length of the tubular structure 4600. In other forms, the diameter of the tubular structure 4600 may increase or decrease along the length of the tubular structure 4600. Increasing or decreasing the diameter may affect the structural integrity of the tubular structure 4600 as well as affecting the air flow through the tubular structure 4600 when used in conjunction with an RPT device. Additionally, the tubular structure 4600 may have a substantially constant inner and / or outer diameter.

[0277] In some forms, tubular structure 4600 may be specially formed to enhance the bending properties of tubular structure 4600. Fig.16, a portion of a tubular structure 4600 is depicted in a side view. As shown, the tubular structure 4600 includes a rib structure 4616. The rib structure 4616 may include ridges 4618 and valleys 4620. The ridges 4618 may have a negative curvature relative to the outer surface of the tubular structure 4600, while the valleys 4620 may have a positive curvature relative to the outer surface of the tubular structure 4600. On the inner surface of the tubular structure, there is an opposite configuration. The rib structure 4616 may allow the tubular structure 4600 to bend at specific locations while also allowing flexibility and providing support for the tubular structure 4600 to resist occlusion of the tubular structure 4600.

[0278] In some forms, the yarns can have different tensions during the manufacturing process. For example, in some forms, the weft yarns extending from the bobbin of shuttle 4702 can have different tensions during manufacturing. The first weft yarn from the first shuttle 4710 can be placed between the warp yarns 4604 at a first tension. The second weft yarn from the second shuttle 4711 can be placed between the warp yarns 4604 at a second, higher tension. Because the second weft yarn is placed at a higher tension, the second weft yarn can tend to shrink the size of the tubular structure at the location of the second weft yarn. Therefore, the cross-section of the tubular structure along the location of the second weft yarn can be smaller than the cross-section at the location of the first weft yarn.

[0279] In one form, different tensions in the weft yarns during manufacture of the tubular structure 4600 can help form a Fig.16 For example, in some forms, the valleys 4620 can be formed by weft yarns that are under greater tension during manufacturing than weft yarns located in the ridges 4618 of the tubular structure 4600.

[0280] In other forms, the yarns may have different elasticities that help form the ridges 4618 and valleys 4620. In some forms, the weft yarns of the valleys 4620 may have greater elasticity than the weft yarns of the ridges 4618. In the process of manufacturing the elastic yarn, the less elastic yarns may be tensioned to the same or similar tension. Due to the higher elasticity of the elastic yarn, the elastic yarn can stretch to a greater extent than the less elastic yarn. Once the tension from the shuttle is released from the elastic yarn, the elastic thread can shrink to a stable state. This shrinkage can make the cross-section of the tubular structure 4600 smaller in the area with the more elastic yarn compared to the less elastic strands. The shrinkage of the elastic yarn can therefore cause the valleys 4620 to form. Because the less elastic thread does not shrink like the elastic thread, the less elastic thread can be located in the peaks of the ribbed structure. In addition, the thread located between the peaks and valleys of the ribs can be more elastic than the weft yarns of the peaks, and can also be less elastic than the weft yarns of the valleys.

[0281] like Fig.17As shown, when a portion of the tubular structure 4600 is bent, the ridges 4618 abut each other along a tighter inner arc 4622. These ridges 4618 provide stopping points for how tight an arc may be formed during the bending of the tubular structure 4600. The different widths and heights of the ridges 4618 can affect how tight the inner arc 4622 can be. For example, narrower ridges 4618 can allow for a tighter arc to be formed than wider ridges 4618. Taller or larger ridges can also affect the inner arc 4622. For example, taller ridges can abut each other more than shorter ridges, such that shorter ridges can allow for a tighter inner arc 4622 than taller ridges 4618.

[0282] In addition to the size of the spines 4618, the material used within the spines 4618 can affect the arc size and shape. In forms where the spines 4618 include a flexible and / or weak material, the spines 4618 may simply bend or twist relative to each other when the spines 4618 abut one another because the spines 4618 are not strong enough to resist the change in shape. In these forms, the tubular structure 4600 may kink along the inner arc 4622. In other forms, the spines 4618 may include a stronger material that can withstand the forces from adjacent spines so that a smooth and continuous inner arc 4622 may be formed during the bending process.

[0283] In some forms, weft yarns of various diameters can be used. In some forms, the weft yarns of ridges 4618 and valleys 4620 can have a larger diameter than the diameter of the weft yarns extending between ridges 4618 and valleys 4620. Changing the diameter of the weft yarns of valleys 4620 and ridges 4618 can change the width of valleys 4620 and ridges 4618. In addition, the diameter of the weft yarn can affect the shape of tubular structure 4600. In other forms, the diameter of the yarn can be changed at any position. For example, the diameter of the weft yarn on the slope can be larger than the diameter of the weft yarn in valleys 4620 or ridges 4618. In other forms, the diameter of the yarn can be different along the entire length of tubular structure 4600. For example, one weft yarn in a valley can be larger than an adjacent weft yarn in the valley. In addition, the diameters of the weft yarns in the slope can be different from each other.

[0284] like Fig.17 As shown, the ridges 4618 are spread apart from each other along the outer arc 4624 while the ridges 4618 are adjacent to each other along the inner arc 4622. In this way, the valleys 4620 are spread apart to allow the ridges 4618 to be spaced apart from each other along the outer arc 4624. Thus, the length of material within the valleys 4620 between the ridges 4618 affects the degree to which the tubular structure 4600 is allowed to bend. For example, if the length of material between each ridge 4618 is smaller, less material can be stretched or flattened to allow the outer arc 4624 to bend tightly. Additionally, a greater amount of material within the valleys 4620 can allow a tight outer arc 4624 to be formed.

[0285] In addition to the amount or length of material between ridges 4618, the material of valleys 4620 and ridges 4618 can alter the amount that tubular structure 4600 is able to bend. For example, if the material of valleys 4620 is not stretchable, then valleys 4620 along outer arcs 4624 will resist bending. Likewise, if the material of valleys 4620 is a stretchable material, then tubular structure 4600 will be allowed to bend to a greater extent than if the material was not stretchable.

[0286] Fig.17A Depicted Fig.17 A possible arrangement of weft yarns 4606 within the tubular structure 4600 depicted in FIG. Fig. 20 The weft yarn arrangement 4637 may be used in the tubular structure 4600 as shown. Figure 19-24 As shown, yarns 1 and 5 are located within the ridge of tubular structure 4600. Additionally, yarn 4 is located in valley 4620 of tubular structure 4600. Furthermore, yarns 2 and 3 are arranged on a slope extending from valley 4620 to ridge 4618. Fig.17 As shown in FIG. 46, the warp yarns extend along the weft yarns so that the weft yarns are bounded by the warp yarns. Various other configurations including monofilament yarns, multifilament yarns, and any combination of multifilament yarns and multifilament yarns may also be used to form portions of valleys 4620 and ridges 4618. In addition, any combination of the yarn types listed in chart 4632 or other yarns may be combined in various orders to form portions of valleys 4620 and ridges 4618 as shown in FIG. Fig.17 4600. In some forms, the rib-like structure can be formed by utilizing weft yarns having different elasticities. For example, in some forms, weft yarns having less elasticity can be positioned along the ridges of the rib-like structure. Additionally, weft yarns located in the valleys can have greater elasticity than weft yarns located in the peaks. Furthermore, weft yarns located between the peaks and the valleys can have an elasticity between the elasticity of the weft yarns located in the peaks and the elasticity of the weft yarns located in the valleys.

[0287] In some forms, tubular structure 4600 may be specially formed to enhance the stretchability of tubular structure 4600. Fig.18 As shown, tubular structure 4600 is subjected to tension 4630. Tension 4630 stretches the material of valleys 4620 and ridges 4618 and partially flattens tubular structure 4600. By forming tubular structure 4600 with ridges and valleys, the material used to form ridges 4618 and valleys 4620 can be allowed to stretch or flatten. Tubular structure 4600 can be allowed to stretch to a greater extent than a tubular structure having a constant or linear outer surface and / or inner surface. The flexibility and stretchability of tubular structure 4600 can allow a patient to be comfortable when using an RPT device utilizing tubular structure 4600.

[0288] 5.5.3.1 Weaving type

[0289] In some forms, the tubular structure can be woven in a specific way to achieve specific characteristics within the air circuit 4170. In some forms, a plain one-to-one weave, a satin weave, a twill weave, a basket weave, or a leno weave can be used. Plain weave can be used for stability and includes weft yarns that alternate above and below the warp yarns. Leno weave can be used to fix fibers in a specific woven structure. Satin weave can be used for contours or to provide a special feel for the woven structure. While maintaining the stability of the woven structure, a twill weave can be used for a specific appearance. While maintaining strength, a basket weave can be used to obtain flexibility. As described in this detailed description, the woven structure of the tubular structure is a plain one-to-one weave. In other forms, a combination of different weave types or different weave configurations, such as those listed above, can be used.

[0290] In other forms, different types of structures may be used to form the tubular structure 4600. For example, as previously described, the tubular structure 4600 may be formed using knitting, braiding, or any other form of manufacturing that includes an interlocking network of fibers. In this form, various braiding, knitting, and other configurations may be used.

[0291] 5.5.3.2 Warp

[0292] In some forms, the warp yarns may be formed from a particular yarn. In some forms, the fiber network includes yarns or strands of material that may be monofilament or multifilament in construction. In one form of the present technology, the warp yarns are formed from elastic polyurethane fibers such as In some forms, the warp yarns may also include a coating, such as a polyester coating. These materials may impart specific properties to the tubular structure 4600.

[0293] Warp yarns can be formed by various materials. In some forms, warp yarns can be formed by natural or synthetic materials. For example, in some forms, warp yarns can be formed by cotton, wool or silk. In other forms, warp yarns can be formed by elastic fibers, rayon, polyester, polyurethane, plastic or other synthetic materials. The material of the warp yarn can also be a combination of different materials. For example, in some forms, the warp yarns can be formed by a combination of synthetic materials and natural materials. In other forms, each yarn can be formed completely by natural or synthetic materials, but yarns made of natural materials and yarns made of synthetic materials can be used to form tubular structures. In further forms, the line can be formed by a combination of fibers of different natural or synthetic materials. For example, a specific yarn can be formed by both cotton fibers and wool fibers. In addition, a specific line can be formed by polyester and elastic fibers. In addition, yarns formed by specific materials can be used to form tubular structures. For example, a first yarn can be formed by polyester, and a second yarn can be formed by elastic fibers. Various yarns can be used to increase or reduce specific properties of tubular structures. For example, specific materials can be used to increase comfort, while other materials can be used to increase the stretchability of tubular structures. In other forms, yarns with various dtex values ​​can be used. In addition, yarns can be formed with different numbers of fibers and plies. In addition, yarns with different twists (e.g., S twists or Z twists) and twists per unit length can be formed.

[0294] In some forms, the number of warp yarns used can be specifically selected to provide an adequate and consistent seal along the outer surface of the tubular structure 4600. In some forms, 252 warp yarns can be used. In other forms, 168 warp yarns can be used. In further forms, 336 warp yarns can be used. 50 to 168 yarns can also be used. In other forms, 168 to 252 warp yarns can be used. In further forms, 252 to 336 warp yarns can be used. In addition, more than 336 warp yarns can be used.

[0295] By varying the number of warp yarns, the properties of the tubular structure 4600 can be varied. For example, a tubular structure 4600 of a given size comprising 168 warp yarns can be more flexible than an air loop of the same size comprising 336 warp yarns. Likewise, a tubular structure comprising 336 warp yarns can form a tighter structure than a tubular structure formed with 168 warp yarns. By increasing the number of warp yarns of the same material, a tubular structure can have greater structural integrity while forming a tightly formed air loop that is more closed than an air loop comprising 168 warp yarns.

[0296] See also Figure 27-29 , depicting different forms of tubular structures 4600 in an independent manner. As shown, each tubular structure 4600 is supported by a pin 4601. The tubular structure is then allowed to flow downward under its own weight. As shown, Fig. 27The tubular structure 4600 is formed with 168 warp yarns. Fig.28 The tubular structure 4600 is formed by 252 warp yarns. Fig.29 The tubular structure 4600 is formed by 336 warp yarns. As previously described, the number of warp yarns within the tubular structure 4600 affects many properties of the tubular structure 4600, including the ability and tendency of the tubular structure 4600 to bend. Figure 27-29 As shown, each variation of tubular structure 4600 is supported in the center by pin 4601 and is allowed to bend naturally according to the weight of the tubular structure. That is, each is allowed to bend under its own weight. As shown, the various tubular structures bend at different angles according to the number of warp yarns. Increasing the number of warp yarns reduces the natural bending of tubular structure 4600. As shown, compared with the 252 and 336 warp yarns, respectively, Fig.28 and Fig.29 The tubular structure of 4600 includes 168 warp yarns. Fig. 27 The tubular structure 4600 has a tighter or sharper curvature. Although a specific number of warp yarns is shown, the number of warp yarns can be varied to provide different bending characteristics. For example, a tubular structure having 168 to 252 warp yarns can be formed. Such a tubular structure will have a curvature of about 1.5 mm. Fig. 27 and Fig.28 The bends between the bends shown. A warp number close to 168 will form a warp with close to Fig. 27 The tubular structure 4600 has the characteristics of a tubular structure. Including a plurality of warp yarns closer to 252 will form a tubular structure that is able to form a tubular structure under its own weight with Fig.28 The tubular structure 4600 is bent in a similar manner. The number of warp yarns used can also be between 252 and 336. The performance of the tubular structure 4600 will change accordingly depending on the number of warp yarns. In addition, more than 353 warp yarns can be used in some forms, while less than 168 warp yarns can be used in other forms.

[0297] Additionally, varying the number of yarns along the warp direction also affects the weave density of the tubular structure 4600. For example, a tubular structure 4600 comprising 336 warp yarns woven in a plain weave will have a greater weave density than a tubular structure 4600 comprising 168 warp yarns in a plain weave configuration. By varying the density of the weave, the weight of the tubular structure 4600 may also be affected. In some forms, a lightweight tubular structure 4600 may be desired so that the user is not negatively impacted by the weight of the tubular structure 4600.

[0298] In some forms, a specific length of tubular structure 4600 can be formed to be lightweight. In some forms, a portion or the entire length of tubular structure 4600 can be two meters. Among other factors, depending on the selected material and the warp and weft density, two meters of tubular structure 4600 can have different weights. In some forms, two meters of tubular structure 4600 can be formed so that the weight of tubular structure 4600 is less than 100 grams. In some forms, two meters of tubular structure 4600 are configured so that the weight of tubular structure 4600 is less than 75 grams. In a further form, two meters of tubular structure 4600 weighs about 64 grams. In a further form, two meters of tubular structure 4600 weighs less than 64 grams. In addition, in other forms, two meters of tubular structure 4600 can weigh more than 100 grams.

[0299] The number of warp yarns in the tubular structure 4600 may also affect the flexibility of the tubular structure 4600. Flexibility may include the ability of the tubular structure 4600 to stretch longitudinally (see Fig.18 ) and the ability of the tubular structure 4600 to expand when exposed to pressurized air from within the tubular structure 4600. Additionally, flexibility may refer to the ability of the tubular structure 4600 to contract when exposed to pressure or forces external to the tubular structure 4600. Flexibility also includes the ability of the tubular structure 4600 to bend relative to an axis extending through the center of the tubular structure 4600 (see Fig.17 ) ability.

[0300] Increasing the number of warp yarns of a given material in the tubular structure 4600 can reduce longitudinal flexibility. Conversely, reducing the number of warp yarns of a given material can increase longitudinal flexibility compared to a tubular structure 4600 including a greater number of warp yarns.

[0301] A tube with a greater number of warp yarns may also not expand radially to the same extent as a tube with a lesser number of warp yarns. The greater the density of warp yarns for a given material, the less the tube can expand radially. The number of warp yarns can be selected to allow expansion or limit expansion based on the desired characteristics of the air circuit 4170.

[0302] A tubular structure with a greater number of warp yarns may also not bend to the same extent as a tubular structure with a lesser number of warp yarns. In some forms, a lesser amount of force may be required to bend a tubular structure 4600 comprising a lesser number of warp yarns. Additionally, in some forms, a tubular structure 4600 with a lesser number of warp yarns, such as 168 warp yarns, may kink more easily than a tubular structure 4600 comprising a greater number of warp yarns. Thus, too few warp yarns may increase the likelihood of accidental occlusion due to bending of the tubular structure 4600.

[0303] A tubular structure having a greater number of warp yarns may have a greater radius of curvature when bent than a tubular structure having a smaller number of warp yarns (see, e.g., Fig.29 ). For comfort, the patient may wish to orient the air circuit 4170 in various orientations. In some forms, the patient may wish to bend or twist the tubular structure 4600 to accomplish these various orientations so that the patient can comfortably utilize the therapeutic device. The ability of the tubular structure 4600 to bend with a smaller radius of curvature can allow the patient to specifically arrange the air circuit 4170 so that the patient is comfortable. Therefore, a balance between too few warps so that the tubular structure 4600 may kink and too many warps so that the tubular structure 4600 is only allowed to bend in a large arc can be reached or accomplished. The number of warp yarns that can be used to achieve this result can depend on the yarn material type and the weight or thickness of the yarn used for the warp yarns. For example, a smaller number of stretch-resistant warp yarns can be used to form a specific tubular structure 4600 compared to flexible warp yarns.

[0304] In one form, the warp yarns may be multifilament or monofilament yarns. In one form, the warp yarns may include a core material wrapped with other fibers. Using a core yarn allows the warp yarns to incorporate the characteristics of both the core material and the fibers into one yarn. In some forms, the warp yarns combine a core material with a specific decitex. The core of the yarn can be 156 dtex. In other forms, the core can be 1880 dtex. In further forms, the core can be between 156 and 1880 dtex. In other forms, the core can be less than 156 dtex or greater than 1880 dtex. The coating of the warp yarn can have different properties from the core. In some forms, the dtex of the coating can be 76 dtex. In other forms, the coating can be 110 dtex. The coating and the core can be changed according to the specific performance used in the warp direction. Other dtex numbers can also be used, such as 150, 250, 350, 450, 550 dtex and the range between the listed dtex numbers can be used in the yarn as the core or coating of any specific yarn in the warp direction or the weft direction.

[0305] The specific strands used for the warp yarns can affect the stretchability and stability of the tubular structure 4600. Utilizing a stretchable material can allow the tubular structure 4600 to be stretchable. However, an overly stretchable material may require an increase in the number of warp yarns to form a stable structure. Additionally, varying the stretchability of the warp yarn material may also allow a greater or lesser number of warp yarns to be used during the manufacturing process.

[0306] 5.5.3.3 Weft yarn

[0307] Various configurations and arrangements of weft yarns may be used. In some forms, tubular structure 4600 may be formed using a circular knitting machine including six shuttles, such as Fig.12 and 13In other forms, a circular knitting machine with more than six or less than six shuttles may be used. As described in this detailed description, a circular knitting machine with six shuttles is used.

[0308] As reference Fig.12 and Fig.13 Described, each shuttle can be equipped with the bobbin that comprises yarn, strand or other linear component.These shuttles are configured to move with circular motion, make the yarn on these bobbins in each shuttle weave between these warp yarns, thus form the circular tubular object that comprises warp yarn and weft yarn.

[0309] Thus, the weft yarns spiral along the length of the tubular object and combine with the warp yarns to form a tubular structure.A variety of material types, material densities, and weft yarn configurations can be used to form particularly comfortable and useful tubes for use with respiratory devices.

[0310] The weft yarn can be formed by various materials. In some forms, the weft yarn can be formed by natural or synthetic materials. For example, in some forms, the weft yarn can be formed by cotton, wool or silk. In other forms, the weft yarn can be formed by elastic fibers, rayon, polyester ("PES"), polyurethane, plastic, polyamide ("PA") or other synthetic materials. The material of the weft yarn can also be a combination of different materials. For example, in some forms, the weft yarn can be formed by a combination of synthetic materials and natural materials. In some forms, the line can be formed by a combination of synthetic materials and natural materials. In other forms, each yarn can be completely formed by natural or synthetic materials, but yarns made of natural materials and yarns made of synthetic materials can be used to form tubular structures. In further forms, the line can be formed by a combination of different natural or synthetic materials. For example, a specific line can be formed by cotton and wool. In addition, a specific line can be formed by polyester and elastic fibers. In addition, yarns formed by specific materials can be used to form tubular structures. For example, a first yarn can be formed by polyester, and a second yarn can be formed by elastic fibers. Various yarns can be used to increase or decrease specific properties of tubular structures. For example, certain materials can be used to increase comfort, while other materials can be used to increase the stretchability of the tubular structure.Any combination of yarn configurations and yarn types can be used in any one or all of the spools on shuttle 4702.

[0311] In some forms, the weft yarn can be a monofilament or a multifilament yarn. The specific yarn can be selected for specific properties such as stretch resistance or comfort. In some forms, a combination of monofilament and multifilament yarns can be used in a specific tubular structure.

[0312] In some forms, the weft yarns may be woven to achieve a specific structure or to take advantage of specific characteristics of the weft yarns. In some forms, multiple weft yarns may be used in conjunction with each other to form a specific structure while allowing for specific elongation and structural features between each weft yarn. Some weft yarns may be particularly useful for providing a structure that prevents the tubular structure from occluding during use. The weft yarns may also be used to support the tubular structure to reduce the possibility of occlusion and resist occlusion from external forces. In addition, the weft yarns may also be used to allow flexibility and stretching of the tubular structure.

[0313] In some forms, the weft density of the tubular structure can be varied depending on the desired properties of the tubular structure. The weft density may also affect the ability of the tubular structure to be formed on a machine. For example, too low a weft density may cause the machine to malfunction while forming the tube. Likewise, too high a weft density may also cause the circular knitting machine to malfunction during the formation of the tubular structure. Therefore, a specific weft density should be selected so that the tubular structure can be formed on the knitting machine.

[0314] Weft density can affect the flexibility and stability of tubular structure. High weft density can increase the stability of tubular structure, but the flexibility of tubular structure can be reduced. Similarly, low weft density can increase the flexibility of tubular structure, but the stability of structure can be reduced. The word stability is used to represent the ability of tubular structure to keep and maintain shape, and the ability to return to a specific shape consistently after being exposed to a specific force. For example, a high weft density structure can have a specific shape, and when depressed or compressed, the high weft density structure is slightly deformed. When force is removed, the high weft density structure can return to its original shape. On the contrary, a lower weft density structure may not have a particularly defined tubular structure at first. A lower weft density structure can be compressed or pressed down to a greater extent than a high weft density structure. When force is removed from a lower weft density structure, the structure may not return to its original shape, or may take a longer time to do so. In some forms, it may be desirable to have a flexible but stable tubular structure. Therefore, the weft density may be between a high weft density and a lower weft density. In some forms, the weft density can be between 10 yarns per centimeter and 100 yarns per centimeter. In some forms, the weft density is between 20 yarns per centimeter and 45 yarns per centimeter. In a further form, the weft density is between 30 yarns per centimeter and 75 yarns per centimeter. In other forms, the weft density is between 60 yarns per centimeter and 100 yarns per centimeter. In some forms, the weft density can be about 30 yarns per 10 centimeters. In other forms, the weft density can be about 40 yarns per 10 centimeters. In a further form, the weft density can be about 350 yarns per 10 centimeters.

[0315] refer to Figure 30-32 , depicts a schematic diagram of a portion of a tubular structure 4600 having various weft yarn densities. Fig.30 In the embodiment, the tubular structure 4600 has a weft density of about 50 yarns per 10 cm. Fig.31 In the embodiment, the tubular structure 4600 has a weft density of about 40 yarns per 10 cm. Fig.32 In the embodiment, the tubular structure 4600 has a weft density of about 30 yarns per 10 cm. As shown in the figure, the spacing between each weft yarn varies depending on the weft density. Fig.17 As described above, changing the position of the weft yarns can affect the bendability of the tubular structure 4600. For example, a higher weft yarn density will likely significantly reduce the bendability of the tubular structure 4600. Since the ridges 4618 will be positioned closer to each other, the ridges 4618 will abut each other after bending less than ridges 4618 that are spaced further apart from each other.

[0316] Additionally, changing the weft yarn density also changes the angle between the weft yarns 4606 and the warp yarns 4604. Changing the angle between the weft yarns 4606 and the warp yarns 4604 can affect the resistance of the tubular structure 4600 to occlusion. When the weft yarns 4606 are spaced farther apart, the resistance of the weft yarns 4606 to deformation decreases. This is in part because less mass or material is located in a specific location to resist force. Therefore, using too low a weft yarn density can increase the likelihood that the tubular structure 4600 will occlude.

[0317] In addition to the physical properties of the warp and weft materials, materials can also be selected for specific visual aspects, both alone and in combination with the tubular structure. In some forms, a textile or fabric look may be desired. In this case, a fabric such as a core may be used, for example, in the warp direction. 156 dtex coated PES dtex 76f24x1 material. Utilizing this particular material may allow for a material with a matte finish as opposed to a shiny or glossy finish to be provided along the tubular structure. The patient may appreciate the visual aesthetic of the matte or flat material. Additionally, the feel of the material may be pleasing to the patient. In contrast, other tubular structures may be formed of silicone or plastic materials along the outer surface. By orienting a textile type material along the outer surface of the tubular structure, the patient may be able to feel the softness of the material as compared to a hard or cold plastic or silicone.

[0318] In addition, physical properties can affect how the tubular structure appears in different ways. For example, the tubular structure can be specifically formed so that the tubular surface is consistent or constant along the length of the tubular structure. For example, the tubular structure can have a groove and a top. If the groove or the top is not consistent in height and / or width, the patient may infer that the tubular structure was not manufactured correctly or that the tubular structure will not work correctly. Therefore, maintaining a specific shape of the tubular structure can increase the likelihood that the patient will continue to receive treatment using the device.

[0319] In some forms, materials of various diameters can be used to form the tubular structure. By changing the diameter of the yarn, the overall appearance of the tubular structure can be changed. In addition, changing the diameter of the yarn can also affect the physical properties of the tubular structure. For example, in some forms, a monofilament weft yarn with a diameter of approximately 0.7 mm can be used. In other forms, a monofilament with a diameter between 0.5 and 0.9 mm can be used. In some forms, the monofilament yarn may include a diameter greater than 0.9 mm or less than 0.5 mm. The monofilament yarn can help maintain the circular structure of the tubular structure and can help provide a specific accordion shape for the tubular structure. In other forms, a monofilament with a diameter of approximately 0.8 mm can be used. A monofilament with a diameter of 0.8 mm can provide a greater change or deviation from the centerline of the tubular structure. That is, in the telescopic shape of the tubular structure, the ridge or peak can be higher than the ridge or peak of the tubular structure formed by the monofilament structure with a diameter of 0.7 mm. In some forms, patients may prefer a tubular structure with a lower profile or a lower deviation from the baseline centerline. Due to the more consistent shape of the tubular structure with 0.7 mm monofilaments, the lower profile may provide less irritation to the user.

[0320] The monofilament can be used as a spiral coil for supporting the tubular structure. The spiral coil can be used to resist occlusion or compression by forces perpendicular to the monofilament. In addition, in some forms, the monofilament can be surrounded by a textile material via the warp yarn. This separates the monofilament from the user's skin so that the monofilament is protected from the outer surface of the tubular structure. By spacing the monofilament from the outer surface, the patient is less likely to feel the monofilament.

[0321] 5.5.3.4 Tubular structure configuration

[0322] Reference Figure 19-24 , together with Fig.25 Chart 4632 and Fig.26 The diagrams 4634 depict various weft yarn orientations within a tubular structure. These diagrams depict various weft yarn orientations within a tubular structure. The warp yarn structure can vary, but for purposes of illustration, it is formed of 252 yarns, the yarns being the core 156 dtex, coated PES dtex 76f24x1. As previously mentioned, various materials can be used in the warp direction. In addition, different numbers of yarns can be used in the warp direction. That is, more or less than 252 warp yarns can be used in the formation of the tubular structure. The warp and weft yarns are formed in a plain weave. Likewise, as previously mentioned, other structures can be used, such as a square weave or a twill weave. In addition, Figure 19-24 Each tubular structure has an outer diameter of 18 mm. As previously mentioned, the diameter of each tubular structure can be different, for example between 15 and 30 mm, however for the purpose of description, it is assumed that each tubular structure has a maximum outer diameter of 18. That is, due to the rib-like nature of the tubular structure, the outer diameter of the ridge is approximately 18 mm. Although Figure 19-24 The different forms shown are formed with the same warp yarns and warp yarn density, but it should be appreciated that a variety of warp yarns and warp yarn densities may be used in addition to different weave patterns other than the plain weave configuration. The weft yarn structure may include various repetitions of material oriented in a particular manner. These yarns help to form a lenticular or ribbed structure of the tubular structure. As previously mentioned, different numbers of warp yarns may be used in the tubular structure, and tubular structures of different diameters may also be formed.

[0323] Referring to Figure 4632, various materials are associated with yarn numbers to facilitate description of various forms of tubular structures. These yarn numbers are used to illustrate Figure 19-24 The orientation of the yarns within the tubular structure. In graph 4632, yarn 1 is a PA monofilament with a diameter of 0.7 mm. Yarn 2 is PA 6.6Z150, which is 880 dtex. Yarn 3 is PA 6.6Z300, which is 440 dtex. Yarn 4 has a 1880 dtex. The core of the yarn is PEX 110f36x1. The yarn No. 5 is a PA monofilament with a diameter of 0.8 mm. The yarn No. 6 has a 156 dtex. dtex 76f24x1. Each of these materials can be selected for specific properties including stretch properties as well as elastic properties and other properties such as touch and feel. In addition, each yarn can be used in place of another yarn and interchanged to achieve specific properties within the tubular structure. Chart 4632 lists possible material types but is not extensive and many other yarn types and diameters can be used to form the tubular structure.

[0324] Diagram 4634 shows the orientation of the weft yarns within each tubular structure. This figure shows the shuttles within the circular knitting machine 4700, such as Fig.12 As shown. Shuttles 1 to 6 (first shuttle 4710 to sixth shuttle 4715) travel in a circular path and are placed so that the weft yarns are woven together with the warp yarns. When the shuttles are placed into the thread, the warp yarns move vertically (e.g., away from Fig.12). This creates a "spiral" effect of the weft yarn within the tubular structure. In addition, because the shuttles are located in a circular track, it should be recognized that when assembled in a tubular structure, shuttle 6 (e.g., the sixth shuttle 4715) yarn can be located adjacent to shuttle 1 (e.g., the first shuttle 4710) yarn. Then, the orientation of the weft yarn within the tubular structure can be repeated until the desired number of tubular structures are formed. When the yarn is placed in the tubular structure, the shuttle places the yarn at a specific position. For example, the first shuttle 4710 places the yarn at the first weft position, which will be adjacent to the yarn placed by the second shuttle 4711 at the second weft position. In some forms, multiple weft positions can refer to a weft segment. For example, a weft segment can include wefts placed by the third shuttle 4712 to the sixth shuttle 4715. In other forms, a weft segment can refer to a single weft position. For example, a weft segment can include yarns placed only from the third shuttle 4712, so that the weft position and the weft segment can be the same. During the discussion of weft yarn segments, each weft yarn position may be referred to as a weft yarn segment position.

[0325] View now Fig.19 , a schematic diagram showing a portion of a particular configuration of a tubular structure having a weft yarn arrangement 4635. As shown, a particular yarn arrangement as produced in diagram 4634 is used. In the configuration of weft yarn arrangement 4635, yarn number 1 is used at the first shuttle position. Yarn number 2 is used at the second shuttle position. Yarn number 3 is used at the third shuttle position. Yarn number 4 is used at the fourth shuttle position. Yarn number 3 is used at the fifth shuttle position. Yarn number 2 is used at the sixth shuttle position.

[0326] Yarn 1 provides support to the tubular structure so that the tubular structure will resist occlusion when compressed. Yarn 1 can generally be stronger and stiffer than the other materials. That is, yarn 1 can have a greater tensile strength and / or resistance to stretching. In addition, in some forms, yarn 1 can have a larger diameter, which can help provide additional support to keep the tubular structure open even without pressurized air passing through the weft yarn arrangement 4635. Yarn 2 can be placed adjacent to yarn 1 within the weft yarn arrangement 4635 of the tubular structure. When referring to weft yarns that are adjacent to each other, it is assumed that the warp yarns are between adjacent yarns unless otherwise specified as described above. Yarn 2 can help provide support to the tubular structure. Adjacent to yarn 2 is yarn 3. Yarn 3 can be lighter than yarn 2 because the decitex of yarn 3 is lower than the decitex of yarn 2, however yarn 3 can still be formed from polyamide. Adjacent to yarn 3 is yarn 4. Yarn 4 includes The core of the yarn 4635 is made of polyester to help allow stretching, and is also coated with polyester to provide yarn 4 with greater stability. Yarn 4 allows the weft yarn arrangement 4635 of the tubular structure to stretch while also maintaining the stability of the tubular structure. Next to yarn 4 is yarn 3, and then yarn 2, as the pattern of yarns repeats until the pattern starts with yarn 1. This repeating pattern allows for a uniform and continuous look and feel of the tubular structure having weft yarn arrangement 4635, while also providing measurable stretch qualities along the length of the tubular structure including weft yarn arrangement 4635.

[0327] Fig.19 In addition to including weft yarn arrangement 4635, also included is the orientation of warp yarns 4604 relative to the weft yarns of weft yarn arrangement 4635. As previously described, warp yarns 4604 extend along the length of the tubular structure below and above adjacent weft yarns. In this way, the weft yarns are bounded on either side of the weft yarns by warp yarns. This structure can exist in a tubular structure including, for example, Figure 19-24 The weft yarns are arranged in a tubular structure as shown, but for the sake of clarity, all Figure 19-24 The weft yarns are not shown.

[0328] Reference now Fig. 20 , depicting a weft yarn arrangement 4637. The cross-sectional portion of the tubular structure 4600 including the weft yarn arrangement 4637 depicts the orientation of the weft yarns within a portion of the weft yarn arrangement 4637 and within the tubular structure 4600. In addition, for clarity, only a portion of the tubular structure 4600 is depicted as having warp yarns 4604. It should be recognized that Fig. 20 The tubular structure 4600 and includes Figure 19-24 Other tubular structures of the weft yarn arrangement depicted in will also include warp yarns 4604 that define each yarn of weft yarns 4606. As shown, a specific arrangement of materials as produced in diagram 4634 is used. Fig. 20 In the configuration, yarn 1 is used in the first shuttle position. Yarn 5 is used in the second shuttle position. Yarn 2 is used in the third shuttle position. Yarn 4 is used in the fourth shuttle position. Yarn 4 is used in the fifth shuttle position. Yarn 3 is used in the sixth shuttle position.

[0329] In this configuration, two monofilaments are used adjacent to each other. This configuration can improve the stability of weft yarn arrangement 4637 compared to weft yarn arrangement 4635. By including two monofilaments with diameters of 0.7 mm and 0.8 mm adjacent to each other, a ridge that resists occlusion can be formed. Due to the doubling of the large PA monofilaments, this ridge can be stronger than any ridge formed in weft yarn arrangement 4635. By including larger monofilaments in the No. 5 yarn, the strength and resistance to occlusion can be increased compared to weft yarn arrangement 4635.

[0330] In addition, yarn No. 2, which has a higher decitex number, is located near yarn No. 5. This orientation of the threads can allow a gradual transition from a thicker, stronger monofilament strand to a stretchable material, such as yarn No. 4. Similarly, yarn No. 3 is located near yarn No. 1 to allow a gradual transition to the stronger monofilament strand of yarn No. 1. Located between yarn No. 2 and yarn No. 3 are two different yarns of yarn No. 4. These two yarns are positioned adjacent to each other so that the warp yarn passes between yarn No. 4 from the fourth shuttle position and yarn No. 4 from the fifth shuttle position. By orienting the two yarns of yarn No. 4 to be adjacent to each other, the stretchability of the tubular structure combined with the weft yarn arrangement 4637 can be significant in the area including yarn No. 4. In addition, valleys or troughs can be formed in the area of ​​the weft yarn arrangement 4637 including two adjacent yarns No. 4.

[0331] The two yarns of yarn number 4 adjacent to each other may also provide stability during the bending motion of the weft arrangement 4637. Due to the fact that the weft arrangement 4637 has two monofilament strands adjacent to each other, when bending a tubular structure having the weft arrangement 4637, the monofilament strands may be less likely to change shape or deform when subjected to an external force. This force may also be spread to adjacent yarns. In some forms, in the case where a weaker yarn such as yarn number 6 is substituted for yarn number 4, the tubular structure having the weft arrangement 4637 will kink when bending. When bending a tubular structure having the weft arrangement 4637, the use of a stronger elastic yarn such as yarn number 4 reduces the possibility of kinking. In addition, when bending a tubular structure having the weft arrangement 4637, the use of yarn number 4 in specific locations may also allow for smooth bending because yarn number 4 helps maintain a stable and consistent structure.

[0332] like Fig. 20 As shown, the outer surface of the tubular structure 4600 can be affected by the size and shape of the weft yarns of the weft yarn arrangement 4637. Although the size of the yarns can affect the shape of the tubular structure 4600, for the purpose of illustration, Fig. 20 The depictions are exaggerated and magnified. For example, the rib-like structure may be due to the orientation of the weft yarns and not just to the different sizes of the weft yarns. In addition, Figure 19-24 As shown, the inner faces of the weft yarns are substantially parallel to each other. In some forms, for example Fig.16 As shown, when the tubular structure has a ribbed configuration, the inner face of a weft yarn may lie in a different longitudinal plane than an adjacent weft yarn. Figure 19-24 The configuration depicted in is used to depict the varying repetitions of the yarn configuration within the tubular structure.

[0333] View now Fig.21 , depicting a schematic diagram of a weft yarn arrangement 4639. As shown, a specific arrangement of materials as produced in diagram 4634 is used. Fig.21In the configuration, yarn 1 is used in the first shuttle position. Yarn 1 is also used in the second shuttle position. Yarn 2 is used in the third shuttle position. Yarn 4 is used in the fourth shuttle position. Yarn 4 is used in the fifth shuttle position. Yarn 3 is used in the sixth shuttle position.

[0334] This orientation of the yarns is similar to the orientation of the yarns of weft yarn arrangement 4637. However, in weft yarn arrangement 4639, instead of including a No. 1 yarn adjacent to a No. 5 yarn, weft yarn arrangement 4639 includes two No. 1 yarns adjacent to each other. In this way, a consistent shape is produced in a tubular structure having weft yarn arrangement 4639. The orientation of the two monofilament yarns adjacent to each other helps maintain a stable construction while also allowing flexibility of the tubular structure having weft yarn arrangement 4639. In addition, using monofilaments of the same size can allow for a uniform appearance of the tubular structure. In addition, using the same monofilament can reduce costs compared to other tubular structures that use multiple monofilaments of different sizes.

[0335] Furthermore, the weft pattern may include various weft yarns. The weft pattern may be a pattern that repeats throughout the tubular structure. Depending on the starting point of the pattern, it is determined how the pattern is described. Fig.21 As shown, weft yarn arrangement 4639 includes a weft yarn pattern that will repeat along the length of the tubular structure including weft yarn arrangement 4639. This is due to the arrangement of shuttle 4702 within knitting machine 4700. Shuttle 4702 is located in a track so that the arrangement of the weft yarns is consistent along the length of the tubular structure. Weft yarn arrangement 4639 includes weft yarn pattern 4669. This weft yarn pattern includes yarn No. 1 adjacent to yarn No. 2. Yarn No. 2 is adjacent to yarn No. 4. Yarn No. 4 is adjacent to another yarn No. 4. The second yarn No. 4 is adjacent to yarn No. 3. Yarn No. 3 is adjacent to yarn No. 1. This yarn pattern then repeats itself along the length of the tubular structure. In this example, weft yarn pattern 4669 can begin with the yarn placed by second shuttle 4711. As described above, various other patterns or pattern subsets can also be included.

[0336] View now Fig. 22 , depicting a schematic diagram of a portion of a weft yarn arrangement 4641. As shown, a specific arrangement of materials as produced in diagram 4634 is used. Fig. 22 In the configuration, yarn number 5 is used in the first shuttle position. Yarn number 5 is also used in the second shuttle position. Yarn number 2 is used in the third shuttle position. Yarn number 4 is used in the fourth shuttle position. Yarn number 4 is used in the fifth shuttle position. Yarn number 3 is used in the sixth shuttle position.

[0337] The configuration of weft yarn arrangement 4641 is similar to that of weft yarn arrangement 4637. However, in weft yarn arrangement 4637, two of the No. 5 yarns are positioned adjacent to each other. Compared to tubular structures having weft yarn arrangement 4639 and weft yarn arrangement 4637, the tubular structure having weft yarn arrangement 4641 can have excellent stability and resistance to occlusion due to the dual inclusion of the No. 5 yarn. However, in some forms, the tubular structure having weft yarn arrangement 4641 may not be as flexible as the tubular structure having weft yarn arrangement 4637 or weft yarn arrangement 4639 for the same reasons. Additionally, in some forms, manufacturing may be difficult due to the large size of the monofilaments of the No. 5 yarn. In some forms, the larger size of the multiple monofilament strands may kink during manufacturing and cause the braiding machine to malfunction, resulting in an inconsistent braided structure and an uneven tubular structure appearance.

[0338] like Fig. 22 As shown, weft yarn arrangement 4641 includes a weft yarn pattern that will repeat along the length of the tubular structure that includes weft yarn arrangement 4641. This is due to the arrangement of shuttle 4702 within weaving machine 4700. Shuttle 4702 is located in a track so that the arrangement of the weft yarns is consistent along the length of the tubular structure. Weft yarn arrangement 4641 includes weft yarn pattern 4671. The weft yarn pattern includes yarn number 5 adjacent to yarn number 5. A second yarn number 5 is adjacent to yarn number 2. Yarn number 2 is adjacent to yarn number 4. Yarn number 4 is adjacent to another yarn number 4. A second yarn number 4 is adjacent to yarn number 3. This yarn pattern then repeats itself along the length of the tubular structure. In this example, weft yarn pattern 4671 can begin with the yarn placed by first shuttle 4710. As described above, various other patterns or subsets of patterns can also be included. Thus, the pattern begins with yarn number 5 adjacent to yarn number 2. Fig.21 The weft pattern 4669 shown has different shuttle positions. Other patterns including two yarn type repeats, three yarn type repeats or other patterns are possible. In addition, the "start" point and end point of the pattern can be defined differently. For example, a pattern of six lines can be divided into two repeating patterns of three lines. When manufacturing a tubular structure to understand the materials and quantities required to form a specific number of tubular structures, these pattern arrangements may be helpful.

[0339] View now Fig.23 , depicting a schematic diagram of a portion of a weft yarn arrangement 4643. As shown, a specific arrangement of materials as produced in diagram 4634 is used. Fig.23 In the configuration, yarn number 1 is used in the first shuttle position. Yarn number 1 is also used in the second shuttle position. Yarn number 6 is used in the third shuttle position. Yarn number 4 is used in the fourth shuttle position. Yarn number 4 is used in the fifth shuttle position. Yarn number 6 is used in the sixth shuttle position.

[0340] The configuration of weft arrangement 4643 is similar to other weft arrangements, but includes some differences. Weft arrangement 4643 is similar to weft arrangement 4639 in that weft arrangement 4643 includes two No. 1 yarns adjacent to each other. However, next to each of these No. 1 yarns is a No. 6 yarn. This yarn may have a lower decitex and a different construction than the No. 2 or No. 3 yarns used in weft arrangement 4639. In addition, this yarn may be the same yarn type used in the warp direction of weft arrangement 4643. By utilizing No. 6 yarn, a greater fabric or cloth appearance and feel may be imparted to the tubular structure including weft arrangement 4643 than in other forms. This may be pleasing to patients who may find the cloth and fabric appearance comfortable, thereby increasing the likelihood of continued use of the treatment device including weft arrangement 4643. In addition, No. 6 yarn may be more flexible than the other No. 2 and No. 3 yarns used in other forms. Utilizing thread 6 may allow weft arrangement 4643 to be more flexible than in other forms while also maintaining the structural integrity of the tubular structure by using No. 1 yarns. The yarn 1 may provide a helical loop to the tubular structure.

[0341] In addition, the configuration of weft yarn arrangement 4643 includes a smaller number of different yarns than previous forms. By configuring weft yarn arrangement 4643 to have fewer different yarns, the construction cost of weft yarn arrangement 4643 can be lower than other tubular structures including a larger number of different yarns.

[0342] In addition to providing lower costs compared to tubular structures including weft yarn arrangements with more different weft yarns, weft yarn arrangements 4643 can be specifically formed to provide a consistent uniform construction. This uniform construction can help provide an acceptable outer surface for consumers. That is, because the pattern is "symmetrical" about an imaginary line between two No. 4 yarns, a tubular structure constructed with such a weft yarn arrangement can have a particularly uniform appearance.

[0343] View now Fig.24 , depicting a schematic diagram of a portion of a weft yarn arrangement 4645. As shown, a specific arrangement of materials as produced in diagram 4634 is used. Fig.24 In the configuration, yarn 1 is used in the first shuttle position. Yarn 5 is used in the second shuttle position. Yarn 6 is used in the third shuttle position. Yarn 4 is used in the fourth shuttle position. Yarn 4 is used in the fifth shuttle position. Yarn 6 is used in the sixth shuttle position.

[0344] The configuration of weft yarn arrangement 4645 is similar to the configuration of weft yarn arrangement 4643. However, weft yarn arrangement 4645 includes yarn number 1 in the first shuttle position and yarn number 5 in the second shuttle position. The configuration of weft yarn arrangement 4645 may have greater stability than the configuration of weft yarn arrangement 4643 while also maintaining flexibility and bendability. However, the use of two different sized monofilament yarns in the first shuttle position and the second shuttle position may affect the outer shape of weft yarn arrangement 4645. For example, different sized monofilaments may provide an uneven shape to the outer surface of weft yarn arrangement 4645. This may provide a particular texture to the outer surface. In some forms, the texture may change depending on the shape and size of the weft yarns within the tubular structure, such as Fig. 20 As shown, the texture of the tubular structure 4600 can be affected by the shape and size of the weft yarns.

[0345] In addition to providing specific strength and stretch properties, in some forms, the material used to form the tubular structure can be lightweight compared to other tubular structures that are not formed by circular weaving, braiding, knitting or other interlocking fiber meshes. In addition, the material used to form the tubular structure 4600 can be soft to the touch, making the material comfortable for the patient.

[0346] In some forms, a heating element may be included within the tubular structure 4600. The heating element may be used to provide heat to the air as it is supplied to the patient. Additionally, in some forms, the heating element may provide support for the tubular structure 4600. For example, monofilament materials such as yarn 1 and yarn 5 may be replaced with wires. These wires may be able to provide support for the tubular structure 4600 while also being able to provide a conductive path for electricity to provide heat to the air circuit 4170 during use.

[0347] In some forms, a monofilament yarn may be positioned adjacent to another monofilament yarn. In some forms, a non-monofilament yarn may be located between two monofilament yarns. In some forms, two monofilament yarns may be different physical yarns. In further forms, a plurality of non-monofilament yarns may be located between the monofilament yarns. The number of monofilament yarns and non-monofilament yarns may be adjusted based on the desired flexibility and strength of the tubular structure. In addition, the arrangement of monofilaments separated from another monofilament by multifilament yarns may be achieved by various weft yarn arrangements. For example, in some forms, a weft yarn pattern utilizing all available shuttles may have a pattern comprising monofilaments, which are spaced apart from another monofilament by at least one non-monofilament yarn. For example, the aforementioned weft yarn pattern 4669 has such an arrangement.

[0348] In other forms, the tubular structure including the monofilament spaced apart from another monofilament by at least one non-monofilament can be realized by repeating the pattern for the second time. For example, the braiding machine 4700 can be equipped with a single monofilament weft yarn and five non-monofilament weft yarns on the shuttle 4702. During the formation of the tubular structure, the first pattern formed will include a single monofilament and five non-monofilament yarns. Once the shuttle 4702 of the braiding machine 4700 rotates for the second time, and therefore repeats the pattern for the second time, the weft yarn configuration will include a single monofilament, five non-monofilaments, a single monofilament, and then five non-monofilaments. In this way, the monofilament yarn is spaced apart from the monofilament yarn by five non-monofilament yarns. Therefore, the monofilament is spaced apart from the monofilament by at least one non-monofilament along the linear length of the tubular structure. Although the monofilament yarn in this configuration is the same monofilament yarn in the entire tubular structure, the tubular structure can still be considered to have a monofilament yarn spaced apart from the monofilament yarn by at least one non-monofilament yarn.

[0349] In some forms, multiple monofilament yarns may be positioned adjacent to each other, such as Fig.23 By using two monofilament yarns adjacent to each other, the strength and resiliency of a tubular structure including a weft yarn arrangement such as weft yarn arrangement 4643 can be increased with minimal impact on the look and feel of the tubular structure. Weft yarn arrangement 4643 includes two monofilament yarns rather than a single larger monofilament yarn. By using two smaller monofilament yarns, a tubular structure with a smaller profile can be formed compared to a single larger monofilament yarn while also maintaining strength and resiliency within the tubular structure.

[0350] Although specific weft yarn arrangements and yarn configurations are discussed, other configurations are possible. The configurations presented are for the purpose of illustration and provide some possible arrangements. We can replace each yarn with another yarn. For example, instead of using two No. 4 yarns adjacent to each other in weft yarn arrangement 4643, No. 4 yarns can be interchanged with two No. 3 yarns. In addition, the configuration of the yarns can be manipulated for any combination of yarns. For example, No. 5 yarns can be adjacent to No. 4 yarns and No. 3 yarns. Any configuration and reconfiguration is possible. In addition, the specific yarns described are not exhaustive and are for the purpose of illustration to describe a specific form of the present technology. It is envisioned that different yarns with different material structures, such as polyester, polyamide, polyurethane, cotton, wool, spandex and other materials. It is also envisioned that coated and uncoated, with or without a core, textured, curled, Z-twisted, S-twisted, spun, extruded yarn configurations and other configurations. The list of materials is by no means exhaustive.

[0351] Each weft arrangement can be formed by various yarns. However, the configuration and order of these yarns can be changed or altered according to the specific characteristics sought in the tubular structure or the air circuit combined with the tubular structure. Weft configuration 4635 uses yarns 1 to 4. Weft configuration 4637 uses yarns 1 to 5. Weft configuration 4639 uses yarns 1 to 4. Although weft configuration 4639 uses the same yarn type as weft configuration 4635, the arrangement and layout of the yarns in weft configuration 4639 and weft configuration 4635 are different from each other. Weft configuration 4641 uses yarns 2 to 5. Weft configuration 4643 uses yarns 1, 4, and 6. Weft configuration 4645 uses yarns 1, 4, 5, and 6. As shown, the yarn types and arrangements of specific yarns can be changed and interchanged to form any weft arrangement.

[0352] refer to Fig.35 , describes a selection matrix 4800. The selection matrix 4800 is used to display various different yarn combinations that can be used to form a tubular structure or a weft yarn arrangement or pattern within a tubular structure. The selection matrix 4800 includes a shuttle position column, which shows various shuttles of the knitting machine 4700. Although six shuttles are shown, as described above, different knitting machines with a greater number of shuttles or a lesser number of shuttles can be used. In addition, as shown in the selection matrix 4800, there are various yarn types that can be used on any of the shuttles in the shuttles. As shown, each yarn can be selected ("yes") or not selected ("no") as being on any one or more of the shuttles. If a specific yarn is selected for any shuttle, the selection does not prohibit the selection of the same yarn for any other shuttle. For example, yarn No. 1 can be used on shuttle 1, shuttle 2, and shuttle 3. Yarn No. 2 can be used on shuttle 4, shuttle 5, and shuttle 6. In addition, yarn No. 1 can be used for all shuttles or not for shuttles. It should be recognized that any yarn in the selection matrix 4800 can be used on any one or more shuttles. In addition, multiple shuttles can have the same type of yarn. In other forms, the shuttles can all have different types of yarns. In other forms, any one of the shuttles can have any combination of yarns. For example, a yarn formed by yarn No. 1 and yarn No. 2 can be used for any one or more of the shuttles.

[0353] Each yarn can be selected for a specific attribute. For example, each yarn can be selected for a specific dtex, elastic properties, gloss, softness, moisture wicking properties, tensile strength, hardness, softness, denier, diameter, appearance, and possible other factors. Yarn can be selected for any one of the shuttles to provide any specific characteristics to the tubular structure. In addition, although a specific yarn is described in the selection matrix 4800, any variation of yarn or different yarns can also be utilized. For example, a monofilament yarn with different diameters or tensile strengths can be selected. In addition, yarns with various dtex numbers that are not formed with the specific materials described in the specification can be used. For example, yarn No. 2 is PA 6.6Z150 with 880 dtex. Different yarn types formed by different materials can also be used, for example, polyurethane with 880 dtex.

[0354] Additionally, the selection matrix 4800 may also be adapted for various warp yarns. That is, the warp yarns may be formed from any combination of one or more yarn types and variations described in this specification. For example, half of the warp yarns may be yarn 3 and the other half may be yarn 6. The positioning of the warp yarns may also be specifically selected in a manner similar to the weft yarns. That is, every other warp yarn may be yarn 3 and yarn 6. Thus, any warp or weft yarn may be selected from the materials described in this specification. Additionally, selecting a particular yarn does not cause the yarn to be selected at another location within the tubular structure.

[0355] 5.5.3.5 Characteristics of tubular structures

[0356] The tubular structure 4600 may be formed such that the tubular structure is able to maintain its cross-sectional shape. In some forms, the tubular structure 4600 may be configured to maintain its shape even when subjected to external forces. Fig.10 As depicted in , the air circuit 4170 including the tubular structure 4600 can change shape when subjected to force, so that the tubular structure 4600 is not a rigid structure (see definition), but the air circuit 4170 can remain open to allow air to pass through. However, the tubular structure 4600 is not a soft structure in at least one direction. Along the weft direction, the tubular structure 4600 is able to support its own weight. That is, when no additional force is applied to or within the tubular structure 4600, the cross-section of the tubular structure 4600 along the weft direction will remain open. In contrast, the tubular structure 4600 can be soft along its length (see definition). For example, if the tubular structure 4600 is held at one end along its length or warp, the tubular structure 4600 may not be able to support its own weight and will bend. The amount of bending will depend on the length of the tubular structure 4600. For example, a longer tubular structure 4600 will bend to a greater extent than a shorter tubular structure 4600. However, even when bent, the tubular structure 4600 can remain open, thereby allowing air to pass through the tubular structure 4600.

[0357] In some forms, the tubular structure 4600 can maintain its shape when subjected to a compressive force of 1 kilogram tending to occlude the tubular structure. In other forms, the tubular structure 4600 can maintain its shape when subjected to a force of 5 kilograms. In other forms, the tubular structure can be able to maintain its shape when subjected to between 1 and 5 kilograms. In further forms, the tubular structure 4600 can maintain its shape when subjected to a force between 0 and 10 kilograms.

[0358] In some forms, the occluding force may cause the tubular structure 4600 to collapse, thereby closing or greatly reducing the cross-sectional area of ​​the tubular structure 4600. This may occur, for example, if the patient steps on the tubular structure 4600. Upon removal of the force, the tubular structure 4600 may spring back into shape such that air is allowed to travel freely through the tubular structure 4600. In this manner, the tubular structure 4600 may be elastic (see definition).

[0359] In addition, the tubular structure 4600 can be longitudinally compressed and maintain its shape. In a configuration where the tubular structure 4600 includes, for example, rib-like structures, the valleys 4620 can be compressed along with the ridges 4618 so that the overall length of the tubular structure 4600 can be reduced, yet the tubular structure 4600 remains open to allow air to pass through the tubular structure 4600 or an air circuit including the tubular structure 4600. In addition to being longitudinally compressible, the tubular structure 4600 can also be stretched to an elongated state, for example, as Fig.18 During the extension, air may be allowed to flow through the tubular structure 4600 or an air circuit including the tubular structure 4600.

[0360] 5.5.3.6 Air loss

[0361] In some forms, the tubular structure can be configured to have a specific leak rate. In some forms, the leak rate can be specifically selected or tested to determine whether post-processing is needed or desired and the type of post-processing. In addition, in some forms, a specific leak rate may be required to remove exhaust gas. In some forms, at a pressure of 3cmH2O, the leakage per meter of the tubular structure can be between 300 and 2000mL / min. In some forms, at a pressure of 4cmH2O, the leakage per meter of the tubular structure can be between 500 and 2300mL / min. In some forms, at a pressure of 7cmH2O, the leakage per meter of the tubular structure can be between 700 and 2900mL / min. In some forms, at a pressure of 8cmH2O, the leakage per meter of the tubular structure can be between 900 and 3200mL / min. In some forms, at a pressure of 3cmH2O, the leakage per meter of the tubular structure 4600 can be about 1100mL / min. In other forms, at a pressure of 4 cmH2O, the leak rate per meter may be approximately 1380 mL / min. In other forms, at a pressure of 5 cmH2O, the leak rate per meter may be approximately 1550 mL / min. In other forms, at a pressure of 6 cmH2O, the leak rate per meter may be approximately 1650 mL / min. In other forms, at a pressure of 7 cmH2O, the leak rate per meter may be approximately 1750 mL / min. In other forms, at a pressure of 8 cmH2O, the leak rate per meter may be approximately 1820 mL / min. The leak rate may be used to determine what type of coating or coating technology may be suitable for use with a particular tubular structure.

[0362] 5.5.4 Leakage Reduction

[0363] In some forms, the tubular structure can be used in conjunction with an air therapy device in the form of an air circuit 4170. In some forms, a lower pressure leak rate may be required so that the air circuit can deliver air of a specific pressure to the patient at a consistent and specific treatment pressure. In some forms, the air circuit 4170 can be designed to provide air at a pressure of 4cmH2O. In other forms, the air circuit 4170 can be designed to provide air at a pressure of 6cmH2O. In further forms, the air circuit 4170 can be designed to provide air at a pressure of 8cmH2O. In some forms, when the air circuit 4170 delivers air at a treatment pressure, the air circuit 4170 is configured to have a leak rate of 2.5mL / min per meter. In other forms, the air circuit 4170 is configured to have a leak rate of less than 2.5mL / min per meter. In some forms, the air circuit 4170 is configured to have a non-zero leak rate. In some forms, providing a specific leak rate within the air circuit 4170 or other components utilizing the tubular structure 4600 and / or the sealing structure 4650 may allow for the removal of a separate vent.

[0364] In some forms, the tubular structure 4600 may be lined with a material configured to contain or retain air so that the air does not leak through the tubular structure 4600 or leaks below a given threshold, such as 2.5 mL / min per meter or less. Fig.15 As shown, the air circuit 4170 includes a tubular structure 4600 and a sealing structure 4650. In some forms, the sealing structure 4650 can be formed of silicone or silicone rubber. In other forms, other sealing materials, such as acrylates, can be used. In other forms, other materials, such as elastomeric materials, polyurethanes, thermosetting materials and / or thermoplastic materials can be used. In other forms, the sealing structure 4650 can be formed of a biocompatible material. In further forms, the sealing structure 4650 can be formed of a soft, flexible and elastic material.

[0365] In some forms, the sealing structure can be formed such that the sealing structure 4650 is a preformed tube, such as an extruded silicone tube. In such forms, the tubular structure 4600 can be wrapped around the sealing structure 4650. In some forms, the sealing structure 4650 can be over-braided by the tubular structure 4600 or over-knitted by the tubular structure 4600. The tubular structure 4600 can be secured to the sealing structure 4650 by a separate material between the tubular structure 4600 and the sealing structure 4650, such as an adhesive.

[0366] In some forms, the sealing structure may be formed after forming the tubular structure 4600. In some forms, a liquid material may be sprayed onto the interior of the tubular structure 4600. The sealing material may then cure to form a solid sealing structure.

[0367] In other forms, a separate sealing structure may not be used. In some forms, the tubular structure 4600 may be preformed to have sufficient sealing properties. In some forms, the tubular structure 4600 may be formed with an elastomeric material to resist water and / or air leakage. By forming the tubular structure 4600 with yarn formed of a specific material, the weight of an air circuit utilizing a leak-reducing tubular structure 4600 may be less than the weight of an air circuit utilizing a tubular structure 4600 with a separate sealing structure.

[0368] The thickness of the sealing structure can be varied so that the characteristics of the air circuit 4170 can also be varied. In some forms, the sealing structure 4650 can be between 0.1 and 5 millimeters. In some forms, the sealing structure 4650 can be between 0.25 and 4 millimeters. In further forms, the sealing structure 4650 can be between 0.5 and 3.5 millimeters. In further forms, the sealing structure 4650 can be between 1 and 4 millimeters. In some forms, the sealing structure 4650 can have a thickness of approximately 1 millimeter. In other forms, the sealing structure 4650 can have a thickness of approximately 0.65 millimeters. In further forms, the sealing structure 4650 can have a thickness between 0.55 millimeters and 0.6 millimeters. Changing the thickness of the sealing structure can affect the ability of the air circuit 4170 to bend or stretch. For example, a thicker sealing structure 4650 of a given material can stretch to a lesser extent than a thinner sealing structure 4650. Likewise, a thicker sealing structure 4650 may require a greater bending force than a thinner sealing structure 4650. Therefore, a change in the thickness of the sealing structure 4650 changes the physical properties of the sealing structure 4650.

[0369] The sealing structure 4650 can be secured to the tubular structure 4600 to form a tubular portion of the air circuit 4170. When secured to the tubular structure 4600, the sealing structure 4650 can affect the stretching and bending properties of the tubular structure 4600 in the same manner as described above.

[0370] In some forms, the tubular structure 4600 can be fixed to the sealing structure 4650 by using glue or other adhesive. In some forms, the adhesive can be air dried, and in other forms, the adhesive can be cured by using ultraviolet ("UV") or other devices. In other forms, the sealing structure 4650 and the tubular structure 4600 can be connected together without the use of an adhesive. In further forms, the sealing structure 4650 can be directly connected to the tubular structure 4600 only by the material of the sealing structure 4650. For example, in some forms, the sealing structure 4650 can be applied to the tubular structure 4600 in liquid form. The sealing structure 4650 can be dried and cured with the tubular structure 4600, so that there is no need to use another material to connect the tubular structure 4600 to the sealing structure 4650.

[0371] The strength of the sealing structure 4650 can also be varied to change or modify the characteristics of the air circuit 4170. The sealing structure 4650 can be formed of a material between 15 Shore hardness and 75 Shore hardness. In other forms, the sealing structure 4650 is formed of a material between 10 Shore hardness and 60 Shore hardness. In further forms, the sealing structure 4650 is formed of a material between 25 Shore hardness and 50 Shore hardness. In some forms, the sealing structure 4650 can be formed with silicone having a Shore hardness of 60 Shore. In other forms, the sealing structure 4650 can be formed with silicone having a Shore hardness of 45 Shore. In further forms, the sealing structure 4650 can be formed with silicone having a Shore hardness of 26 Shore. In other forms, the sealing structure 4650 can be formed with silicone having a Shore hardness of less than 26 Shore. Changing the hardness or strength of the sealing structure 4650 can affect the characteristics of the air circuit 4170. For example, a stiffer sealing structure 4650 may resist bending or occlusion to a greater extent than a softer sealing structure 4650. However, a sealing structure 4650 that is too stiff may cause the air circuit 4170 to kink when bent. This is because a material that is too stiff may not stretch or compress to accommodate the bending of the air circuit 4170 and may kink instead.

[0372] The hardness of the sealing structure 4650 can be selected or adjusted along with the thickness to achieve specific characteristics. For example, a sealing structure 4650 having a higher Shore hardness value can be formed into a thinner arrangement than a sealing structure 4650 having a lower Shore hardness value. The thickness and Shore hardness value can vary depending on the desired end characteristics of the air circuit 4170.

[0373] In some forms, a specific thickness and Shore hardness of the sealing structure may be utilized. In one form, the thickness of the sealing structure 4650 is 1 mm and the Shore hardness is 60. In other forms, the sealing structure 4650 has a thickness of 0.65 mm and a Shore hardness of 45. In yet another form, the sealing structure 4650 has a thickness of 0.55 to 0.6 mm and a Shore hardness of 26. These different configurations may be used to achieve specific characteristics or functions of the air circuit 4170.

[0374] In addition to reducing air loss, the sealing structure can also help manage water within the air circuit 4170. In some forms, the sealing structure 4650 can be waterproof. During use of the treatment device, the air supplied to the patient can be humidified. In addition, the patient's exhaled gas can also have a relative humidity higher than the surrounding air. In some forms, the humidified air can condense into water and be arranged along the air circuit 4170 during use. The sealing structure 4650 can guide water to a specific location and can also prevent water from leaking through the tubular structure 4600.

[0375] 5.5.4.1 Weight of sealing structure

[0376] In some forms, the air circuit 4170 may be formed with the sealing structure 4650 weighted a certain amount. In some forms, the sealing structure may be formed such that the sealing structure 4650 imparts a minimum amount of weight to the air circuit 4170. The sealing structure 4650 may be designed such that the effect that the sealing structure 4650 has on the weight and flexibility of the air circuit 4170 is minimized or reduced. For example, the sealing structure 4650 may be formed in a thin manner such that the amount of extra or additional weight and material used within the air circuit 4170 may be reduced or minimized.

[0377] In some forms, the sealing structure 4650 can weigh less than the tubular structure 4600 of the same or similar length. In some forms, the two-meter tubular structure 4600 can weigh between 25 grams and 100 grams. In other forms, the weight of the tubular structure 4600 can be between 15 and 75 grams. In a further form, the weight of the tubular structure can be between 30 and 60 grams. For example, in some forms, a 2-meter tubular structure 4600 can weigh about 64 grams. The corresponding length of the sealing structure 4650 can be formed along the inner surface of the tubular structure 4600. In some forms, the weight of the sealing structure 4650 can be between 50 and 200 grams. In other forms, the sealing structure 4650 can weigh between 75 and 125 grams. In a further form, the weight of the sealing structure 4650 can be between 25 and 60 grams. In some forms, the sealing structure 4650 can weigh about 80 grams. In other forms, the sealing structure 4650 may weigh about 72 grams. In further forms, the sealing structure 4650 may weigh 64 grams. In other forms, the sealing structure 4650 may weigh 60 grams or even 40 grams or less. Therefore, the weight of the sealing structure 4650 may be about 1.25 times that of the tubular structure 4600. The sealing structure 4650 may also weigh less than 1.25 times that of the tubular structure 4600. In some forms, the sealing structure 4650 may be 1.13 times that of the tubular structure 4600. In further forms, the sealing structure 4650 may weigh about the same as the tubular structure 4600. In further forms, the sealing structure 4650 may weigh less than the tubular structure 4600. For example, the sealing structure 4650 may weigh 94% of the weight of the tubular structure 4600. In further forms, the sealing structure 4650 weighs 62% of the weight of the tubular structure 4600. In this manner, a lightweight air circuit 4170 incorporating a tubular structure 4600 and a sealing structure 4650 may be formed. In a further form, the sealing structure 4650 may weigh between 62% of the weight of the tubular structure 4600 and 1.25 times the weight of the tubular structure 4600. In a further form, the sealing structure 4650 may weigh 1.25 times the weight of the tubular structure 4600 or may weigh less than 62% of the tubular structure 4600. In some forms, the weight of the sealing structure 4650 may be 50%, 75%, or the same as the weight of the tubular structure 4600. In a further form, the weight of the sealing structure 4650 may be between 25% and 90% of the weight of the tubular structure 4600. In a further form, the weight of the sealing structure 4650 may be 1 to 2 times the weight of the tubular structure 4600.

[0378] In some forms, the weight of sealing structure 4650 may be affected by the thickness and material composition of sealing structure 4650. Thus, the weight of sealing structure 4650 may be varied by varying the material composition of sealing structure 4650 as well as the thickness of sealing structure 4650.

[0379] 5.5.4.2 Sealing structure configuration

[0380] In some forms, the sealing structure 4650 may follow the contour of the tubular structure 4600. In some forms, as previously discussed, the tubular structure 4600 may have a ribbed shape such that the tubular structure 4600 includes tops or ridges and valleys. Similarly, the sealing structure 4650 may also include ridges and valleys. The inner surface of the tubular structure 4600 may include a ribbed surface including ridges and valleys. See Fig.33 , a portion of the air circuit 4170 is depicted as including a tubular structure 4600 and a sealing structure 4650. As shown, an inner surface 4660 of the tubular structure 4600 includes ridges and valleys. An outer surface 4652 of the sealing structure 4650 corresponds to the inner surface 4660 of the tubular structure 4600 and follows the same or similar path as the inner surface 4660 of the tubular structure 4600. That is, the outer surface 4652 of the sealing structure 4650 has an opposite curvature compared to the inner surface 4660 of the tubular structure 4600. For example, when the outer surface 4652 of the sealing structure 4650 has a positive curvature, the inner surface 4660 of the tubular structure 4600 has an opposite negative curvature.

[0381] In addition, the inner face 4654 of the sealing structure 4650 can mimic or relate to the inner surface 4660 of the tubular structure 4600. For example, the inner face 4654 can have a positive curvature at the same or similar longitudinal position as the inner surface 4660 of the tubular structure 4600. In other forms, the inner face 4654 can have a positive curvature or a negative curvature similar to the curvature of the inner surface 4660 of the tubular structure 4600, but the magnitude of the curvature can be a smaller positive curvature or a smaller negative curvature. The curvature of the inner face 4654 can be softer or gentler than the curvature of the inner surface 4660. The curvature of the inner face 4654 can depend on the thickness of the sealing structure 4650. For example, a thicker sealing structure 4650 can result in a softer or gentler bend than a thinner sealing structure 4650. The inner face 4654 defines a channel for the air circuit 4170 that delivers air to the patient. In this manner, the thickness and shape of the sealing structure 4650 determines the cross-sectional shape of the passageway of the air circuit 4170. The passageway or passageway may be referred to as an open space that is formed or bounded by an inner surface (eg, inner surface 4654).

[0382] Additionally, in some forms, the distance between the surfaces of tubular structure 4600 and sealing structure 4650 may remain substantially constant along the length of tubular structure 4600 and sealing structure 4650. For example, Fig.33 As shown, the distance d1 from the inner surface 4660 of the sealing structure 4650 to the inner face 4654 is substantially the same as the distance d2 from the inner surface 4660 of the sealing structure 4650 to the inner face 4654. In this sense, the sealing structure 4650 can mate with the inner surface 4660 along the length of the tubular structure 4600 from rib to rib.

[0383] In such Fig.34 In other forms shown, the sealing structure 4650 can be a separate structure to which the tubular structure 4600 is secured. For example, the sealing structure 4650 can be formed to have a substantially circular cross-section including an inner surface 4654 and an outer surface 4652 that have approximately zero curvature along the length of the sealing structure 4650. The tubular structure 4600 can be assembled around the sealing structure 4650, however, there can be gaps between the ridges and valleys of the inner surface 4660 of the tubular structure 4600 and the outer surface 4652 of the sealing structure 4650. This is because the sealing structure 4650 may not be formed to correspond to the shape of the tubular structure 4600. In Fig.34 In the depicted form, the tubular structure 4600 may be secured to the sealing structure 4650 at contact points, such as at point 4664, by use of an adhesive or other bonding mechanism. In other forms, the sealing structure 4650 may be heated such that the sealing structure 4650 partially melts, such that the fibers or strands or tubular structure 4600 interact with the sealing structure 4650 to form a bond between the tubular structure 4600 and the sealing structure 4650. In other forms, the tubular structure 4600 may be configured with a thermoset or thermoplastic material such that components of the tubular structure 4600 partially melt and then solidify to form a bond between the tubular structure 4600 and the sealing structure 4650.

[0384] Additionally, in some forms, the distance between the surfaces of tubular structure 4600 and sealing structure 4650 may vary along the length of tubular structure 4600 and sealing structure 4650. For example, Fig.34 As shown, a distance d3 from the inner surface 4660 of the sealing structure 4650 to the inner face 4654 is different from a distance d4 from the inner surface 4660 of the sealing structure 4650 to the inner face 4654 .

[0385] In other forms, the sealing structure 4650 may have a substantially flat longitudinal inner face 4654 and have an outer surface 4652 that corresponds to the inner surface 4660 of the tubular structure 4600. Such a configuration would be similar to Fig.33 and 34In this way, the material of sealing structure 4650 can fill the spaces between the valleys of tubular structure 4600.

[0386] In some forms, the inner diameter of the sealing structure 4650 may be specifically selected. In some forms, the innermost diameter of the sealing structure 4650 is between 10 mm and 25 mm. In some forms, the innermost diameter of the sealing structure 4650 is between 8 mm and 17 mm. In further forms, the innermost diameter of the sealing structure 4650 is between 11 mm and 20 mm. In some forms, the inner diameter of the sealing structure 4650 is approximately 14 mm. In other forms, the inner diameter of the sealing structure 4650 is 14.5 mm or 15 mm. In further forms, the inner diameter of the sealing structure 4650 is greater than 15 mm. In other forms, the inner diameter of the sealing structure 4650 is less than 14 mm. The inner diameter of the sealing structure 4650 may be affected by the inner diameter of the tubular structure 4600 and the thickness of the sealing structure 4650. The inner diameter may vary to accommodate different amounts of air at different pressures for use in conjunction with the RPT device 4000. For example, in order to maintain a specific pressure within the air circuit 4170 and for the patient, the inner diameter may be of a specific size to accommodate a certain amount of air at a specific pressure.

[0387] In addition to providing a seal for the air circuit 4170, the sealing structure 4650 can also provide structural support to the tubular structure 4600. For example, the sealing structure 4650 can help provide support against forces that would tend to occlude the air circuit 4170. However, the sealing structure 4650 can be capable of being compressed and stretched without blocking the air path through the air circuit 4170. In addition, the sealing structure 4650 can be able to stretch axially to at least twice its original length without tearing. In addition, when compressed, the sealing structure 4650 can be compressed in a uniform manner so as not to block the air path through the air circuit 4170. In addition, although the sealing structure 4650 can provide additional support to the tubular structure 4600, the air circuit 4170 including the sealing structure 4650 can be packaged into a roll or wound on itself. This can allow the air circuit 4170 having the tubular structure 4600 and the sealing structure 4650 to be effectively packaged and effectively stored when not in use.

[0388] 5.5.4.3 Tubular structures in sealed and other configurations

[0389] In addition to the air circuit 4170, the tubular structure 4600 and the sealing structure 4650 can be used in other parts of the air treatment device. For example, the tubular structure 4600 and the sealing structure 4650 can be used as part of the patient interface 3000. The tubular structure 4600 without the sealing structure 4650 can also be used in various areas of the treatment device. For example, the tubular structure 4600 may not be used to transmit air, but can be used to provide support for various components. For example, the tubular structure 4600 can form a part of the belt. In addition, in another form, the air circuit 4170 can be connected to the tube formed by the tubular structure 4600 and the sealing structure 4650. In addition, the tubular structure 4600 and the sealing structure 4650 can be used to form various parts of the patient interface 300, such as the sealing structure, the shield. The additional tubular structure 4600 can be used as a wrap or cover around the various components of the air treatment device.

[0390] 5.5.5 Oxygen delivery

[0391] In one form of the present technology, supplemental oxygen 4180 is delivered to one or more points in the pneumatic pathway, such as upstream of the pneumatic block 4020 , to the air circuit 4170 and / or the patient interface 3000 .

[0392] 5.6 Humidifier

[0393] 5.6.1 Humidifier Overview

[0394] In one form of the present technology, a humidifier 5000 (e.g., Figure 5A ) to change the absolute humidity of the air or gas for delivery to the patient relative to the ambient air. Typically, the humidifier 5000 is used to increase the absolute humidity of the air flow and increase the temperature of the air flow (relative to the ambient air) before delivery to the patient's airway.

[0395] The humidifier 5000 may include a humidifier reservoir 5110, a humidifier inlet 5002 for receiving an air flow, and a humidifier outlet 5004 for delivering a humidified air flow. Figure 5A and Figure 5B As shown, the inlet and outlet of the humidifier reservoir 5110 can be a humidifier inlet 5002 and a humidifier outlet 5004, respectively. The humidifier 5000 can also include a humidifier base 5006, which can be adapted to receive the humidifier reservoir 5110 and include a heating element 5240.

[0396] 5.6.2 Humidifier components

[0397] 5.6.2.1 Water storage tank

[0398] According to one arrangement, the humidifier 5000 may include a water reservoir 5110 configured to hold or retain a liquid (e.g., water) volume to be evaporated for humidifying the air flow. The water reservoir 5110 may be configured to hold a predetermined maximum water volume so as to provide adequate humidification for at least the duration of a respiratory therapy session, such as one night of sleep. Typically, the reservoir 5110 is configured to hold several hundred milliliters of water, for example, 300 milliliters (ml), 325 ml, 350 ml, or 400 ml. In other forms, the humidifier 5000 may be configured to receive a water supply from an external water source such as a building's water supply system.

[0399] According to one aspect, the water reservoir 5110 is configured to add humidity to the air flow from the RPT device 4000 as the air flow travels therethrough. In one form, the water reservoir 5110 may be configured to encourage the air flow to travel in a tortuous path through the reservoir 5110 while in contact with the volume of water therein.

[0400] According to one form, the reservoir 5110 may be arranged, for example, along a Figure 5A and Figure 5B The sideways orientation is shown removed from the humidifier 5000.

[0401] The reservoir 5110 may also be configured to prevent liquid from flowing out of it, such as through any holes and / or between its subcomponents, such as when the reservoir 5110 is displaced and / or rotated from its normal operating orientation. Since the air flow to be humidified by the humidifier 5000 is generally pressurized, the reservoir 5110 may also be configured to avoid loss of pneumatic pressure through leakage and / or flow resistance.

[0402] 5.6.2.2 Conductive part

[0403] According to one arrangement, the reservoir 5110 includes a conductive portion 5120 that is configured to allow efficient transfer of heat from the heating element 5240 to the liquid content in the reservoir 5110. In one form, the conductive portion 5120 may be arranged as a plate, but other shapes may also be equally suitable. All or a portion of the conductive portion 5120 may be made of a thermally conductive material, such as aluminum (e.g., having a thickness of approximately 2 mm, such as 1 mm, 1.5 mm, 2.5 mm, or 3 mm), another thermally conductive metal, or some plastics. In some cases, a material with a suitable geometry having a lower conductivity may be used to achieve appropriate thermal conductivity.

[0404] 5.6.2.3 Humidifier reservoir base

[0405] In one form, the humidifier 5000 may include a humidifier reservoir base 5130 (eg, Figure 5B), which is configured to receive the humidifier reservoir 5110. In some arrangements, the humidifier reservoir base 5130 may include a locking feature, such as a locking rod 5135 configured to hold the reservoir 5110 in the humidifier reservoir base 5130.

[0406] 5.6.2.4 Water level indicator

[0407] The humidifier reservoir 5110 may include Figure 5A-5B 5150. In some forms, the water level indicator 5150 may provide a user (such as the patient 1000 or a caregiver) with one or more indications regarding the amount of water volume in the humidifier reservoir 5110. The one or more indications provided by the water level indicator 5150 may include an indication of a maximum predetermined volume of water, any portion thereof, such as 25%, 50%, 75%, or a volume such as 200 ml, 300 ml, or 400 ml.

[0408] 5.6.2.5 Heating elements

[0409] In some cases, a heating element 5240 can be provided to the humidifier 5000 to provide heat input to one or more volumes of water and / or air flow in the humidifier reservoir 5110. The heating element 5240 can include a heat generating component, such as a resistive heating track. One suitable example of a heating element 5240 is a layered heating element, such as described in PCT Patent Application Publication No. WO 2012 / 171072, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0410] In some forms, the heating element 5240 may be disposed in the humidifier base 5006, where heat may be provided to the humidifier reservoir 5110 primarily by conduction, such as Figure 5B shown.

[0411] 5.7 Glossary

[0412] For purposes of this technical disclosure, one or more of the following definitions may apply in certain forms of the technology. In other forms of the technology, alternative definitions may apply.

[0413] 5.7.1 Overview

[0414] Air: In some forms of the present technology, air may be considered to mean atmospheric air, and in other forms of the present technology, air may be considered to mean some other combination of breathable gases, such as atmospheric air enriched with oxygen.

[0415] Environment: In certain forms of the present technology, the term environment can have the meaning of (i) external to the treatment system or patient, and (ii) directly surrounding the treatment system or patient.

[0416] For example, the ambient humidity relative to the humidifier may be the humidity of the air directly surrounding the humidifier, such as the humidity within the room that the patient is sleeping in. This ambient humidity may be different from the humidity outside the room that the patient is sleeping in.

[0417] In another example, ambient pressure may be the pressure immediately surrounding or external to the body.

[0418] In some forms, ambient (e.g., acoustic) noise may be considered to be the background noise level in the room the patient is in, in addition to noise generated, for example, by the RPT device or emanating from a mask or patient interface. Ambient noise may be generated by sound sources outside the room.

[0419] Automatic Positive Airway Pressure (APAP) Therapy: CPAP therapy in which the therapy pressure is automatically adjusted between a minimum and a maximum limit, e.g., breath-by-breath, depending on whether there is an indication of an SBD event.

[0420] Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) Therapy: A respiratory pressure therapy in which the therapy pressure is approximately constant over the patient's breathing cycle. In some forms, the pressure at the airway entrance will be slightly higher during exhalation and slightly lower during inspiration. In some forms, the pressure will vary between different breathing cycles of the patient, for example, increasing in response to detecting an indication of partial upper airway obstruction, and decreasing in the absence of an indication of partial upper airway obstruction.

[0421] Flow: Volume (or mass) of air delivered per unit time. Flow may refer to an instantaneous quantity. In some cases, reference to flow will be to a scalar quantity, i.e. a quantity having only magnitude. In other cases, reference to flow will be to a vector quantity, i.e. a quantity having both magnitude and direction. Flow may be given by the symbol Q. 'Flow' is sometimes simply abbreviated to 'flow' or 'air flow'.

[0422] In the example of a patient breathing, the flow rate can be nominally positive for the inspiratory portion of the patient's breathing cycle, and therefore can be negative for the expiratory portion of the patient's breathing cycle. The total flow rate, Qt, is the flow rate of air leaving the RPT device. The ventilation flow rate, Qv, is the flow rate of air leaving the vent to allow flushing of exhaled gases. The leakage flow rate, Ql, is the leakage flow rate from the patient interface system or elsewhere. The respiratory flow rate, Qr, is the flow rate of air received into the patient's breathing system.

[0423] Humidifier: The term humidifier shall be deemed to refer to a humidifying device constructed and arranged or configured with a physical structure capable of providing a therapeutically beneficial amount of water (H2O) vapor to an air flow to improve a patient's medical respiratory condition.

[0424] Leakage: The word leakage is to be considered as undesired air flow. In one example, leakage may occur due to an incomplete seal between the mask and the patient's face. In another example, leakage may occur in the swivel elbow to the surrounding environment.

[0425] Noise, conducted (acoustic): Conducted noise in this document refers to the noise brought to the patient through the pneumatic path (such as the air circuit and patient interface and the air therein). In one form, conducted noise can be quantified by measuring the sound pressure level at the end of the air circuit.

[0426] Noise, radiated (acoustic): Radiated noise in this document means the noise that is brought to the patient via the ambient air. In one form, radiated noise can be quantified by measuring the sound power / pressure level of the object in question according to ISO 3744.

[0427] Noise, Ventilation (Acoustic): Ventilation noise in this document refers to the noise generated by the flow of air through any vent, such as the vent of a patient interface.

[0428] Patient: A person, whether or not they have a respiratory condition.

[0429] Pressure: Force per unit area. Pressure can be expressed in a range of units, including cmH2O, gf / cm 2 , hectopascal. 1cmH2O is equal to 1g-f / cm 2 And about 0.98 hectopascal. In this specification, unless otherwise specified, the pressure is given in cmH2O.

[0430] The pressure in the patient interface is given the symbol Pm, while the therapy pressure is given the symbol Pt, which represents the target value to be achieved by the mask pressure Pm at the current moment.

[0431] Respiratory Pressure Therapy (RPT): The application of a supply of air to the airway entrance at a therapeutic pressure that is typically positive relative to atmosphere.

[0432] Ventilator: A mechanical device that provides pressure support to a patient to perform some or all of the work of breathing.

[0433] 5.7.1.1 Materials

[0434] Silicone or Silicone Elastomer: Synthetic rubber. In this specification, references to silicone refer to liquid silicone rubber (LSR) or compression molded silicone rubber (CMSR). One form of commercially available LSR is SILASTIC (included in the range of products sold under this trademark), which is manufactured by Dow Corning. Another manufacturer of LSR is Wacker. Unless otherwise specified to the contrary, exemplary forms of LSR have a Shore A (or Type A) indentation hardness in the range of about 35 to about 45 as measured using ASTM D2240.

[0435] Polycarbonate: A thermoplastic polymer of bisphenol A carbonate.

[0436] 5.7.1.2 Mechanical properties

[0437] Resilience: The ability of a material to absorb energy when elastically deformed and release that energy when unloaded.

[0438] Elastic: Will release substantially all of its energy when unloaded. Includes, for example, certain silicones and thermoplastic elastomers.

[0439] Hardness: The ability of a material to resist deformation inherently (as described, for example, by Young's modulus or the indentation hardness scale measured on a standardized sample size).

[0440] • "Soft" materials may include silicone or thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) and may deform easily, for example under finger pressure.

[0441] • "Hard" materials may include polycarbonate, polypropylene, steel or aluminum, and may not deform easily, for example under finger pressure.

[0442] Stiffness (or rigidity) of a structure or component: The ability of a structure or component to resist deformation in response to an applied load. The load can be a force or a moment, such as compression, tension, bending, or torsion. The structure or component may offer different resistance in different directions.

[0443] Flexible structure or component: A structure or component that will change shape (eg, bend) when made to support its own weight for a relatively short period of time, such as within 1 second.

[0444] Rigid structure or component: A structure or component that does not substantially change shape when subjected to loads normally encountered in use. An example of such use may be to place and maintain a patient interface in sealing relationship with the entrance to a patient's airway, for example under a load of pressure of about 20 to 30 cmH2O.

[0445] As an example, an I-beam may include a different bending stiffness (resistance to bending loads) in a first direction than in a second orthogonal direction. In another example, a structure or component may be flexible in a first direction and rigid in a second direction.

[0446] 5.7.2 Respiratory cycle

[0447] Apnea: According to some definitions, an apnea is considered to occur when flow drops below a predetermined threshold for a sustained period of time (e.g., 10 seconds). Obstructive apnea is considered to occur when some obstruction of the airway does not allow air to flow despite the patient's efforts. Central apnea is considered to occur when apnea is detected due to a decrease or absence of respiratory effort despite a patent airway. Mixed apnea is considered to occur when a decrease or absence of respiratory effort occurs simultaneously with an obstructed airway.

[0448] Respiratory rate: The rate at which a patient breathes spontaneously, usually measured in breaths per minute.

[0449] Duty cycle: the ratio of inspiratory time Ti to total breathing time Ttot.

[0450] Effort (breathing): The work done by a spontaneous breather in an attempt to breathe.

[0451] Expiratory portion of the breathing cycle: the period from the start of expiratory flow to the start of inspiratory flow.

[0452] Flow Limitation: Flow limitation is to be considered a state in a patient's breathing where an increase in the patient's effort does not result in a corresponding increase in flow. Where flow limitation occurs during the inspiratory portion of the breathing cycle, it may be described as inspiratory flow limitation. Where flow limitation occurs during the expiratory portion of the breathing cycle, it may be described as expiratory flow limitation.

[0453] Types of flow-limited inspiratory waveforms:

[0454] (i) Flat: has a rise, followed by a relatively flat section, followed by a fall.

[0455] (ii) M-shape: has two local peaks, one at the leading edge and one at the trailing edge, and a relatively flat portion between the two peaks.

[0456] (iii) Chair shape: has a single local peak at the leading edge followed by a relatively flat section.

[0457] (iv) Inverted chair shape: has a relatively flat section followed by a single local peak at the trailing edge.

[0458] Hypopnea: According to some definitions, hypopnea is considered a decrease in flow rather than a cessation of flow. In one form, hypopnea is considered to occur when flow decreases below a threshold rate for a sustained period of time. Central hypopnea is considered to occur when hypopnea is detected due to a decrease in respiratory effort. In one form in adults, any of the following may be considered hypopnea:

[0459] (i) The patient's breathing decreases by 30% for at least 10 seconds with an associated 4% desaturation;

[0460] (ii) The patient has a decrease in breathing (but less than 50%) lasting at least 10 seconds with an associated desaturation or arousal of at least 3%.

[0461] Hyperpnea: Increased air flow to above normal levels.

[0462] Inspiratory portion of the breathing cycle: The period from the start of inspiratory flow to the start of expiratory flow is considered the inspiratory portion of the breathing cycle.

[0463]

[00136] Patency (airway): The degree to which an airway is open or the degree to which an airway is open. An open airway is open. Airway patency may be quantified, for example a value (1) being open and a value zero (0) being closed (obstructed).

[0464] Positive End Expiratory Pressure (PEEP): The pressure above atmospheric pressure that exists in the lungs at the end of exhalation.

[0465] Peak flow (Qpeak): The maximum flow rate during the inspiratory portion of the respiratory flow waveform.

[0466] Respiratory flow, patient air flow, respiratory air flow (Qr): These terms may be understood to refer to the RPT device's estimate of respiratory flow, as opposed to "true respiratory flow" or "real respiratory flow", which is the actual respiratory flow experienced by the patient, usually expressed in liters per minute.

[0467] Tidal volume (Vt): The volume of air inhaled or exhaled during normal breathing when no additional effort is exerted. In principle, the inspiratory volume Vi (the volume of air inhaled) is equal to the expiratory volume Ve (the volume of air exhaled), so a single tidal volume Vt can be defined to be equal to either volume. In practice, the tidal volume Vt is estimated as some combination of the inspiratory volume Vi and the expiratory volume Ve, such as an average.

[0468] (Inhalation) Time (Ti): Duration of the inspiratory portion of the respiratory flow waveform.

[0469] (Expiratory) Time (Te): Duration of the expiratory portion of the respiratory flow waveform.

[0470] (Total) Time (Ttot): The total duration between the start of the inspiratory portion of one respiratory flow waveform and the start of the inspiratory portion of the subsequent respiratory flow waveform.

[0471] Typical Recent Ventilation: The ventilation value around which recent values ​​of ventilation Vent tend to cluster over some predetermined time scale, ie a measure of the central tendency of recent values ​​of ventilation.

[0472] Upper airway obstruction (UAO): includes partial and total upper airway obstruction. This may be associated with a state of flow limitation, where flow increases only slightly, or even decreases, as the pressure difference across the upper airway increases (Starling impedance behavior).

[0473] Ventilation (Ventilation): A measurement of the rate of gas exchanged by a patient's respiratory system. Measurements of ventilation may include one or both of inspiratory and expiratory flow (per unit time). When expressed as volume per minute, this quantity is often referred to as "minute ventilation". Minute ventilation is sometimes given simply as volume, and is understood to be the volume per minute.

[0474] 5.7.3 Ventilation

[0475] Adaptive Servo-Ventilator (ASV): A servo-ventilator with a variable, rather than fixed, target ventilation. The variable target ventilation may be learned from some characteristic of the patient (e.g., the patient's breathing characteristics).

[0476] Backup Rate: A ventilator parameter that determines the minimum rate of breaths (usually expressed in breaths per minute) that the ventilator will deliver to the patient if not triggered by a spontaneous respiratory effort.

[0477] Cycle: Termination of the inspiratory phase of a ventilator. When a ventilator is delivering a breath to a spontaneously breathing patient, at the end of the inspiratory portion of the breathing cycle, the ventilator is said to cycle to stop delivering breaths.

[0478] Expiratory Positive Airway Pressure (EPAP): Base pressure to which the intra-breath varying pressure is added to produce the desired mask pressure that the ventilator will attempt to achieve at a given time.

[0479] End-expiratory pressure (EEP): The desired mask pressure that the ventilator will attempt to achieve at the end of the expiratory portion of a breath. If the pressure waveform template Π(Φ) is zero at the end of exhalation, i.e., Π(Φ) = 0 when Φ = 1, then EEP equals EPAP.

[0480] Inspiratory Positive Airway Pressure (IPAP): The maximum desired mask pressure that the ventilator attempts to achieve during the inspiratory portion of a breath.

[0481] Pressure Support: A value indicating that the pressure increase during ventilator inspiration exceeds the pressure increase during ventilator expiration, and usually means the pressure difference between the maximum and base pressure during inspiration (e.g., PS = IPAP-EPAP). In some cases, pressure support means the difference that the ventilator wants to achieve, rather than the difference that it actually achieves.

[0482] Servo-ventilator: A ventilator that measures the patient's ventilation, has a target ventilation, and adjusts the level of pressure support to bring the patient's ventilation to the target ventilation.

[0483] Spontaneous / Timed (S / T): A mode in which a ventilator or other device attempts to detect the start of a breath in a spontaneously breathing patient. However, if the device cannot detect a breath within a predetermined period of time, the device will automatically initiate the delivery of a breath.

[0484] Sway: An equivalent term for pressure support.

[0485] Triggering: When a ventilator delivers a breath of air to a spontaneously breathing patient, it is said to be triggered to do so when the patient makes an effort to initiate the breathing portion of the breathing cycle.

[0486] 5.7.4 Anatomy

[0487] 5.7.4.1 Facial anatomy

[0488] Ala: The outer wall or "wing" of each nostril (plural: alar)

[0489] Nose angle:

[0490] Alar tip: The outermost point on the wing of the nose.

[0491] Alar bend (or alar apex) point: The most posterior point in the base line of the curvature of each ala, found in the crease formed by the union of the ala and cheek.

[0492] Auricle: The entire external visible part of the ear.

[0493] (Nose) Framework: The nasal framework includes the nasal bones, the frontal process of the maxilla, and the nasal part of the frontal bone.

[0494] (Nose) Soft skeleton: The nasal soft skeleton includes the septal, lateral, major and minor cartilages.

[0495] Columella: The strip of skin that separates the nostrils and extends from the nasal prominence to the upper lip.

[0496] Columellar angle: The angle between a line drawn through the midpoint of the nostril and a line drawn perpendicular to the Frankfort plane (where both lines intersect at the lower point of the nasal septum).

[0497] Frankfurt horizontal plane: A line extending from the lowest point of the orbital rim to the left cochlea. The cochlea is the deepest point in the notch above the tragus of the auricle.

[0498] Glabella: The most prominent point on the forehead in the midsagittal plane located on the soft tissue.

[0499] External nasal cartilage: A cartilaginous plate that is essentially triangular in shape. Its upper edge is attached to the nasal bone and the frontal process of the maxilla, and its lower edge is connected to the greater alar cartilage.

[0500] Lip, lower (midpoint of lower lip):

[0501] Lip, upper (midpoint of upper lip):

[0502] Greater alar cartilage: A cartilaginous plate located beneath the external nasal cartilage. It curves around the front of the nostril. Its posterior end is connected to the frontal process of the maxilla by a tough fibrous membrane containing three or four small cartilages of the alar.

[0503] Nares (Nostrils): The approximately oval-shaped holes that form the entrance to the nasal cavity. The singular form of nares is naris (nostril). The nostrils are separated by the nasal septum.

[0504] Nasolabial folds or nasolabial wrinkles: Folds or grooves of skin that extend from each side of the nose to the corners of the mouth, separating the cheeks from the upper lip.

[0505] Nasolabial angle: the angle between the columella and the upper lip (which intersect at the lower point of the nasal septum).

[0506] Subauricular point: The lowest point where the auricle attaches to the facial skin.

[0507] Suprauricular point: The highest point where the auricle attaches to the facial skin.

[0508] Nasal prominence: The most prominent point or tip of the nose that can be identified in a side view of the rest of the head.

[0509] Philtrum: The midline groove that extends from the lower border of the nasal septum to the top of the lip in the upper lip area.

[0510] Mental point: The midpoint of the frontmost part of the chin located on the soft tissue.

[0511] Ridge (nose): The nasal ridge is the midline protrusion of the nose extending from the nasal bridge point to the nasal protuberance point.

[0512] Sagittal plane: A vertical plane that runs from anterior (front) to posterior (back). The midsagittal plane is the sagittal plane that divides the body into right and left halves.

[0513] Nasal point: The most concave point on the soft tissue covering the frontonasal suture area.

[0514] Septal Cartilage (Nose): The septal cartilage forms part of the septum and divides the front of the nasal cavity.

[0515] Posterior superior lateral flap: The point at the inferior edge of the alar base where the alar base joins the skin of the upper (upper) lip.

[0516] Subnasal point: The point on the soft tissue where the columella meets the upper lip in the midsagittal plane.

[0517] Supramental point: the point of greatest concavity on the midline of the lower lip between the midpoint of the lower lip and the premental point of the soft tissue

[0518] 5.7.4.2 Skull anatomy

[0519] Frontal Bone: The frontal bone includes a large vertical portion (the squama) which corresponds to the area called the forehead.

[0520] Mandible: The mandible forms the lower jaw. The mental protuberance is the bony protuberance of the lower jaw that forms the chin.

[0521] Maxilla: The maxilla forms the upper jaw and lies above the mandible and below the eye sockets. The frontal process of the maxilla projects upward from the sides of the nose and forms part of the lateral border.

[0522] Nasal Bones: The nasal bones are two small oval bones that vary in size and form among different individuals; they lie side by side in the middle and upper part of the face and form the "bridge" of the nose at their junction.

[0523] Nasal root: The intersection of the frontal bone and the two nasal bones, the concave area directly between the eyes and on the upper part of the bridge of the nose.

[0524] Occipital Bone: The occipital bone is located at the back and lower part of the skull. It contains an oval hole (foramen magnum) through which the cranial cavity communicates with the vertebral canal. The curved plate behind the foramen magnum is the squama occipitalis.

[0525] Orbit: The bony cavity in the skull that holds the eyeball.

[0526] Parietal bones: The parietal bones are the bones that when joined together form the roof and sides of the skull.

[0527] Temporal Bones: The temporal bones are located at the base and sides of the skull and support the part of the face called the temples.

[0528] Zygomatic bones: The face includes two zygomatic bones, which are located on the upper and side parts of the face and form the prominence of the cheeks.

[0529] 5.7.4.3 Respiratory system anatomy

[0530] Diaphragm: A sheet of muscle that extends across the base of the rib cage. The diaphragm separates the thoracic cavity, which contains the heart, lungs, and ribs, from the abdominal cavity. As the diaphragm contracts, the volume of the thoracic cavity increases and air is drawn into the lungs.

[0531] Larynx: The larynx or voice box houses the vocal cords and connects the lower part of the pharynx (hypopharynx) to the trachea.

[0532] Lung: The respiratory organ of humans. The conducting zone of the lungs contains the trachea, bronchi, bronchioles, and terminal bronchioles. The respiratory zone contains the respiratory bronchioles, alveolar ducts, and alveoli.

[0533] Nasal Cavity: The nasal cavity (or nasal fossa) is a large air-filled space above and behind the nose in the middle of the face. The nasal cavity is divided into two parts by a vertical wing called the nasal septum. On the sides of the nasal cavity are three horizontal branches called the nasal conchae (singular "concha") or turbinates. The front of the nasal cavity is the nose, while the back connects to the nasopharynx via the internal nostrils.

[0534] Pharynx: The part of the throat located just below (under) the nasal cavity and above the esophagus and larynx. The pharynx is conventionally divided into three sections: the nasopharynx (epipharynx) (the nasal part of the pharynx), the oropharynx (mesopharynx) (the oral part of the pharynx), and the hypopharynx (hypopharynx).

[0535] 5.7.5 Patient interface

[0536] Anti-Asphyxia Valve (AAV): A component or subcomponent of a mask system that reduces the risk of excessive CO2 rebreathing by the patient by opening to atmosphere in a fail-safe manner.

[0537] Elbow: An elbow is an example of a structure that directs the axis of an air flow traveling therethrough to change direction through an angle. In one form, the angle may be approximately 90 degrees. In another form, the angle may be greater or less than 90 degrees. The elbow may have a cross-section that is approximately circular. In another form, the elbow may have an elliptical or rectangular cross-section. In certain forms, the elbow may be rotatable relative to a mating component, such as approximately 360 degrees. In certain forms, the elbow may be removable from a mating component, such as via a snap connection. In certain forms, the elbow may be assembled to a mating component via a one-time snap connection during manufacturing, but may not be removed by the patient.

[0538] Frame A frame will be considered to mean a mask structure that carries the tensile load between two or more connection points to the headgear. A mask frame may be a non-airtight load-bearing structure in a mask. However, some forms of mask frames may also be airtight.

[0539] Headgear: Headgear will be considered to mean a form of positioning and stabilizing structure designed for use on the head. For example, headgear may include a collection of one or more support rods, straps, and reinforcements configured to position and maintain a patient interface in position on the patient's face for delivery of respiratory therapy. Some straps are formed of soft, flexible, resilient materials, such as a laminate composite of foam and fabric.

[0540] Film: A film shall be taken to mean a typically thin element which preferably has substantially no resistance to bending, but has resistance to stretching.

[0541] Plenum: A mask plenum will be taken to mean a portion of the patient interface having walls at least partially enclosing a volume of space which, in use, has air pressurized therein to above atmospheric pressure. The housing may form part of the wall of the mask plenum.

[0542] Seal: can be a noun form referring to a structure ("seal") or a verb form referring to the effect ("seal"). Two elements can be constructed and / or arranged to 'seal' or achieve a 'seal' therebetween without requiring a separate 'seal' element itself.

[0543] Shell: Shell will be taken to mean a curved and relatively thin structure having bendable, stretchable and compressible stiffness. For example, a curved structural wall of a mask may be a shell. In some forms, the shell may be multi-faceted. In some forms, the shell may be airtight. In some forms, the shell may not be airtight.

[0544] Reinforcement: A reinforcement will be taken to mean a structural component designed to increase the bending resistance of another component in at least one direction.

[0545] Support rod: A support rod will be considered a structural component designed to increase the compression resistance of another component in at least one direction.

[0546] Swivel (noun): A subassembly of components configured to rotate about a common axis, preferably independently, preferably under low torque. In one form, the swivel may be configured to rotate through an angle of at least 360 degrees. In another form, the swivel may be configured to rotate through an angle of less than 360 degrees. When used in the context of an air delivery conduit, the subassembly of components preferably comprises a pair of matching cylindrical conduits. There may be little or no air flow leakage from the swivel when in use.

[0547] Tie (noun): A structure used to resist tension.

[0548] Vent: (noun): A structure that allows air flow from the interior of a mask or duct to ambient air for clinically effective flushing of exhaled gases. For example, clinically effective flushing may involve a flow rate of about 10 liters per minute to about 100 liters per minute, depending on the mask design and the therapy pressure.

[0549] 5.7.6 Shape of the structure

[0550] Products according to the present technology may include one or more three-dimensional mechanical structures, such as a mask cushion or an impeller. The three-dimensional structures may be combined by two-dimensional surfaces. These surfaces may be distinguished using markings to describe the relative surface orientation, position, function, or some other feature. For example, a structure may include one or more of a front surface, a rear surface, an inner surface, and an outer surface. In another example, a seal-forming structure may include a face-contacting (e.g., outer) surface and a separate non-face-contacting (e.g., underside or inner) surface. In another example, a structure may include a first surface and a second surface.

[0551] To help describe the shape of three-dimensional structures and surfaces, we first consider a cross section through a point p on the surface of the structure. FIG. 3B to FIG. 3F , which show examples of cross sections at points p on the surface and the resulting plane curves. Figures 3B to 3F The outward normal vector at p is also shown. The outward normal vector at p points away from the surface. In some examples, we describe the surface from the point of view of an imaginary person standing on the surface.

[0552] 5.7.6.1 One-dimensional curvature

[0553] The curvature of a plane curve at p can be described as having a sign (eg, positive, negative) and a magnitude (eg, the inverse of the radius of a circle that touches the curve only at p).

[0554] Positive curvature: If the curve at p turns toward the outward normal, then the curvature at that point will be positive (if the imaginary person were to leave that point p, they would have to walk uphill). Figure 3B (and Figure 3C Compared with the relatively large positive curvature) and Figure 3C (and Figure 3B Such curves are often called concave.

[0555] Zero curvature: If the curve at point p is a straight line, then the curvature will be zero (if the imaginary person leaves point p, they can walk horizontally without going up or down). Figure 3D .

[0556] Negative curvature: If the curve at point p turns away from the outward normal, then the curvature in that direction at that point will be negative (if the imaginary person were to leave that point p, they would have to go downhill). Figure 3E (and Figure 3F Compared to the relatively small negative curvature) and Figure 3F (and Figure 3E Such curves are often called convex.

[0557] 5.7.6.2 Curvature of a Two-Dimensional Surface

[0558] A description of a shape at a given point on a two-dimensional surface according to the present technology may include multiple normal cross sections. Multiple cross sections may cut the surface in a plane including an outward normal ("normal plane"), and each cross section may be taken in a different direction. Each cross section produces a planar curve with a corresponding curvature. The different curvatures at the point may have the same sign or different signs. Each curvature at the point has, for example, a relatively small magnitude. Figures 3B to 3F The plane curve in can be an example of such multiple cross sections at specific points.

[0559] Principal curvatures and directions: The directions of the normal planes where the curvature of a curve takes its maximum and minimum values ​​are called principal directions. FIG. 3B to FIG. 3F In the example, the maximum curvature occurs at Figure 3B , while the minimum curvature occurs at Figure 3F Therefore Figure 3B and Figure 3F is the cross section in the principal direction. The principal curvature at p is the curvature in the principal direction.

[0560] Surface region: A connected set of points on a surface. The set of points in a region can have similar properties, such as curvature or sign.

[0561] Saddle region: A region where at each point the principal curvatures have opposite signs, i.e. one is positive and the other is negative (depending on which way the imaginary person turns, they could be walking uphill or downhill).

[0562] Dome region: The region where the principal curvatures at every point have the same sign, e.g. both are positive (a "concave dome") or both are negative (a "convex dome").

[0563] Cylindrical region: A region where one principal curvature is zero (or is zero within manufacturing tolerances, for example) and the other principal curvature is not zero.

[0564] Planar region: A surface region where both principal curvatures are zero (or are zero within manufacturing tolerances, for example).

[0565] Surface edge: The boundary or limit of a surface or area.

[0566] Path: In some forms of the present technology, a "path" will be taken to be a path in the mathematical topological sense, e.g. a continuous spatial curve from f(0) to f(1) on a surface. In some forms of the present technology, a "path" may be described as a route or road, comprising, e.g., a set of points on a surface. (An imaginary person's path is where they walk on a surface, and is similar to a garden path).

[0567] Path length: In some forms of the present technology, "path length" refers to the distance along the surface from f(0) to f(1), i.e., the distance along a path on the surface. There may be more than one path between two points on the surface, and such paths may have different path lengths. (The path length of an imaginary person would be the distance they would have to walk along a path on the surface).

[0568] Straight-line distance: Straight-line distance is the distance between two points on a surface, but is independent of the surface. On a planar area, there will be a path on the surface that has the same path length as the straight-line distance between two points on the surface. On a non-planar surface, there may not be a path that has the same path length as the straight-line distance between two points. (For the imaginary, straight-line distance would correspond to a distance "in a straight line")

[0569] 5.7.6.3 Space curve

[0570] Space curves: Unlike plane curves, space curves do not have to lie in any particular plane. Space curves can be closed, i.e., have no endpoints. Space curves can be thought of as one-dimensional segments of three-dimensional space. An imaginary person walking on one strand of a DNA helix walks along a space curve. A typical human left ear includes a helix, which is a left-handed helix, see Figure 3Q The typical human right ear includes a helix that is a right-handed helix, see Figure 3R . Figure 3S A right-handed spiral is shown. The edge of a structure, such as the edge of a membrane or impeller, can follow a space curve. In general, a space curve can be described by the curvature and twist at each point on the space curve. Torque is a measure of how the curve turns out of the plane. Torque has a sign and a magnitude. The twist at a point on a space curve can be characterized with reference to the tangent vector, normal vector, and binormal vector at that point.

[0571] Tangent unit vector (or unit tangent vector): For each point on a curve, the vector at that point specifies the direction from that point as well as the magnitude. A tangent unit vector is a unit vector that points in the same direction as the curve at that point. If an imaginary person were flying along the curve and fell from her craft at a particular point, the direction of the tangent vector is the direction she would be traveling.

[0572] Unit Normal Vector: This tangent vector itself changes as the imaginary person moves along the curve. The unit vector pointing in the direction of the change in the tangent vector is called the unit principal normal vector. It is perpendicular to the tangent vector.

[0573] Binormal unit vector: The binormal unit vector is perpendicular to both the tangent vector and the principal normal vector. Its direction can be determined by the right-hand rule (see Figure 3P ) or alternatively by the left-hand rule ( Fig.3O ) to determine.

[0574] Oscillating plane: The plane containing the unit tangent vector and the unit principal normal vector. Fig.3O and 3P .

[0575] Space curve twist: The twist at a point of a space curve is the magnitude of the rate of change of the binormal unit vector at that point. It measures how much the curve deviates from the osculating plane. A space curve that lies within the plane has zero twist. A space curve that deviates from the osculating plane by a relatively small amount will have a relatively small amount of twist (e.g., a slightly tilted spiral path). A space curve that deviates from the osculating plane by a relatively large amount will have a relatively large amount of twist (e.g., a sharply tilted spiral path). See Figure 3S , since T2>T1, so Figure 3S The twist near the top coil of the helix is ​​greater than Figure 3S The amount of twist in the bottom coil of the helix.

[0576] Reference Figure 3P According to the right-hand rule, a space curve with a right-hand binormal can be considered to have a right-hand positive twist (e.g., Figure 3S A space curve that turns away from the right-handed binormal direction can be considered to have right-handed negative twist (e.g., a left-handed helix).

[0577] Similarly, refer to the left-hand rule (see Fig.3O ), a space curve oriented in the direction of the left-handed binormal can be considered to have a left-handed positive twist (e.g., a left-handed helix). Thus left-handed positive is equivalent to right-handed negative. See Figure 3T .

[0578] 5.7.6.4 Holes

[0579] A surface may have one-dimensional pores, for example pores defined by planar curves or by spatial curves. A thin structure (e.g., a membrane) having pores may be described as having one-dimensional pores. See, for example Fig. 3I A one-dimensional hole in a surface bounded by a planar curve for the structure shown.

[0580] A structure can have two-dimensional pores, such as pores defined by a surface. For example, a pneumatic tire has a two-dimensional pore defined by the inner surface of the tire. In another example, a bladder having a cavity for air or gel can have a two-dimensional pore. See, for example, Figure 3L The padding and the Figure 3M and Figure 3N An exemplary cross section of a conduit is shown, wherein an inner surface defining a two-dimensional hole is shown. In yet another example, a conduit can include a one-dimensional hole (e.g., at its inlet or at its outlet) and a two-dimensional hole defined by the inner surface of the conduit. See also Figure 3K Two-dimensional pores in the shown structure defined by the shown surfaces.

[0581] 5.8 Other comments

[0582] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material which is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent Office file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.

[0583] Unless the context clearly indicates and provides a numerical range, it is understood that each intervening value between the upper and lower limits of the range, to one-tenth of the unit of the lower limit, and any other stated or intervening value in the stated range are broadly included in the present technology. The upper and lower limits of these intermediate ranges (which may independently be included in the intermediate ranges) are also included in the present technology, subject to any specifically excluded limits in the stated ranges. Where the stated range includes one or both limits, ranges excluding either or both of those included limits are also included in the present technology.

[0584] Furthermore, where one or more values ​​are stated herein as being implemented as part of the technology, it should be understood that such values ​​may be approximate unless otherwise stated, and that such values ​​may be used with any suitable significant figures to the extent that practical technical implementation may allow or require it.

[0585] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the technology belongs. Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can also be used in the practice or testing of the technology, a limited number of exemplary methods and materials are described herein.

[0586] When a particular material is provided for use in constructing a component, obvious alternative materials having similar properties may be used as substitutes.In addition, unless specified to the contrary, any and all components described herein should be understood to be capable of being manufactured, and thus may be manufactured together or separately.

[0587] It must be noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include their plural equivalents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0588] All publications mentioned herein are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety to disclose and describe methods and / or materials as the subject matter of those publications. Publications discussed herein are provided solely for their disclosures prior to the filing date of the present application. This article should not be construed as admitting that the present technology is not entitled to be earlier than such disclosures due to prior inventions. In addition, the publication date provided may be different from the actual publication date, which may require independent confirmation.

[0589] The terms "comprises" and "comprising" should be understood to refer to each element, component or step in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the marked elements, components or steps may be present or utilized, or in combination with other elements, components or steps that are not marked.

[0590] The subject headings used in the detailed description are included only for the convenience of the reader and should not be used to limit the subject matter found in the entire disclosure or claims. The subject headings should not be used to interpret the scope of the claims or claim limitations.

[0591] Although the technology herein has been described with reference to specific examples, it should be understood that these examples only illustrate the principles and applications of the technology. In some cases, the terms and symbols may imply specific details that are not required for practicing the technology. For example, although the terms "first" and "second" may be used, unless otherwise specified, they are not intended to represent any order, but can be used to distinguish different elements. In addition, although the process steps in the method can be described or shown in sequence, such order is not required. Those skilled in the art will recognize that such an order can be modified and / or aspects thereof can be performed simultaneously or even synchronously.

[0592] It is therefore to be understood that numerous modifications may be made to the illustrative examples and that other arrangements may be devised without departing from the spirit and scope of the present technology.

[0593] 5.9 List of reference numerals

[0594] Patient 1000

[0595] Sleeping patients 1000

[0596] Bed Buddy 1100

[0597] Patient Interface 3000

[0598] Seal forming structure 3100

[0599] Inflatable Chamber 3200 String 3210 On point 3220 Next point 3230 Stable structure 3300 Vent 3400 Connect to port 3600 Forehead support 3700 RPT Device 4000 External housing 4010 Upper part 4012 Section 4014 Panel 4015 Chassis 4016 Handle 4018 Pneumatic block 4020 Air filter 4110 Inlet air filter 4112 Outlet air filter 4114 Muffler 4120 Muffler 4120 Inlet silencer 4122 Exit silencer 4124 Pressure Generator 4140 Blower 4142 Controllable Blower 4142 Motor 4144 Anti-overflow valve 4160 Air circuit 4170 Air circuit 4171 Supplemental oxygen 4180 Electrical Components 4200 PCBA 4202 Power Supply 4210 Input device 4220 Central Controller 4230 Converter 4270 Tubular Structure 4600 Pin 4601 Braided structure 4602 Warp 4603 Warp 4604 Warp 4605 Weft 4606 Place weft 4606 Weft 4607

[0600] Edge 4608

[0601] Weft 4609

[0602] Upper edge 4610

[0603] First weft yarn position 4612

[0604] Second weft yarn position 4614

[0605] Structure 4616

[0606] Ridge 4618

[0607] Valley 4620

[0608] Inner Arc 4622

[0609] Outer Arc 4624

[0610] Tension 4630

[0611] Chart 4632

[0612] Chart 4634

[0613] Tubular Structure 4635

[0614] Tubular Structure 4637

[0615] Tubular Structure 4639

[0616] Tubular Structure 4641

[0617] Tubular Structure 4643

[0618] Tubular Structure 4645

[0619] Sealing structure 4650

[0620] Outer surface 4652

[0621] Inside 4654

[0622] Inner surface 4660

[0623] Point 4664

[0624] Weft pattern 4669

[0625] Connector 4670

[0626] Weft pattern 4671

[0627] Connector 4672

[0628] Circular Braiding Machine 4700

[0629] Shuttle 4702

[0630] Spool 4704

[0631] First Shuttle 4710

[0632] Second Shuttle 4711

[0633] The third shuttle 4712

[0634] The Fourth Shuttle 4713

[0635] The Fifth Shuttle 4714

[0636] The Sixth Shuttle 4715

[0637] Supply Direction 4750

[0638] Needle 4752

[0639] Select Matrix 4800

[0640] Humidifier 5000

[0641] Humidifier inlet 5002

[0642] Humidifier outlet 5004

[0643] Humidifier base 5006

[0644] Storage 5110

[0645] Conductive part 5120

[0646] Humidifier reservoir base 5130

[0647] Locking lever 5135

[0648] Water level indicator 5150

[0649] Heating element 5240

Claims

1. An air circuit for delivering a positive pressure air flow from an air supply to a patient interface for treating sleep disordered breathing, the air circuit comprising: Tubular structures with circular braided structures; The tubular structure is seamless along the length of the tubular structure; The tubular structure includes a plurality of warp yarns and a plurality of weft yarns; the plurality of weft yarns comprising 1) a first monofilament weft yarn, 2) a second monofilament weft yarn, and 3) a non-monofilament weft yarn segment; The non-monofilament weft yarn segment includes at least one non-monofilament weft yarn, the non-monofilament weft yarns including a first non-monofilament weft yarn and a second non-monofilament weft yarn; the first monofilament weft yarn is located adjacent to the first non-monofilament weft yarn, the second monofilament weft yarn is located adjacent to the second non-monofilament weft yarn, The first non-monofilament weft yarn and the second non-monofilament weft yarn are located between the first monofilament weft yarn and the second monofilament weft yarn.

2. The air circuit according to claim 1, wherein: In a cross-sectional view, the tubular structure has a rib-like structure including a plurality of alternating ridges and valleys, the diameter of the tubular structure at the ridges being greater than the diameter of the tubular structure at the valleys.

3. The air circuit of claim 2, wherein each ridge is formed by the first monofilament weft yarn and / or the second monofilament weft yarn, and each valley is formed by the non-monofilament weft yarn segment.

4. The air circuit according to claim 3, wherein: In use, the ridges have increased resistance to occlusion compared to the valleys.

5. The air circuit according to claim 3, wherein: The elasticity of each of the plurality of weft yarns can vary along the length of the tubular structure.

6. The air circuit of claim 3, wherein the elasticity of the first monofilament weft yarn and / or the second monofilament weft yarn of each ridge is less than the elasticity of each yarn of the non-monofilament weft yarn segment.

7. The air circuit of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the first diameter of the first monofilament weft yarn and the second diameter of the second monofilament weft yarn are both greater than the diameter of any yarn in the non-monofilament weft yarn segment.

8. The air circuit of claim 7, wherein the tubular structure has an accordion shape.

9. The air circuit of claim 7, wherein the first diameter is the same as the second diameter.

10. The air circuit of claim 7, wherein the first diameter is different than the second diameter.

11. The air circuit according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the tubular structure is formed seamlessly and continuously along the entire length of the tubular structure.

12. The air circuit of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the plurality of warp yarns substantially covers the plurality of weft yarns.

13. A respiratory pressure therapy device for providing positive pressure respiratory therapy to a patient breathing in a respiratory cycle, the device comprising an inspiratory portion and an expiratory portion, the device comprising: a controllable motor blower configured to generate a supply of air at a positive pressure relative to ambient pressure by rotating an impeller at an impeller speed; a housing holding the motor-blower, the housing including an inlet and a patient connection port, the patient connection port being configured to communicate, in use, the supply of air at the positive pressure from the motor-blower to a patient interface via an air circuit; a sensor that monitors at least one of a pressure and a flow rate of the positive pressure air supply and generates a sensor output; a controller configured to adjust an operating parameter of the motor-blower based on the sensor output to maintain a minimum positive pressure in the patient interface during a therapy period by causing an increase in impeller speed during an inspiratory portion of the breathing cycle and causing a decrease in impeller speed during an expiratory portion of the breathing cycle; and An air filter is configured to filter the air supply.

14. A patient interface for delivering airflow to a patient to treat sleep apnea, the patient interface comprising: a seal-forming structure including a sealing flange configured to seal against a patient's face; and a plenum connected to the seal-forming structure and at least partially forming an interior space configured to contain air at a positive pressure, wherein the seal forming structure comprises a support flange disposed between the sealing flange and the edge of the inflation chamber, wherein, in use, the positive pressure air is configured to act on the underside of the sealing flange to cause the sealing flange to seal against the patient's face, and The supporting flange comprises a spring-like element, and the spring-like element is used to support the sealing flange to prevent it from buckling during use.

15. A method for providing treatment for a patient with sleep apnea, the method comprising: providing a respiratory pressure therapy device configured to generate a supply of air at a positive pressure relative to ambient pressure; A patient interface is provided, the patient interface being configured to engage the face of a patient to deliver airflow to the patient braiding an air circuit having a tubular passage, the air circuit being configured to convey the air supply; and connecting a first end of the air circuit to the respiratory pressure therapy device and a second end of the air circuit to the patient interface, The air loop comprises at least one yarn having a core material wrapped with different fibers.

16. An air circuit comprising: A tubular structure for delivering air to a plenum chamber, the tubular structure having a circular braided structure and comprising an outer surface and an inner surface, The tubular structure has a circular weave structure having a weft density of at least 30 yarns per 10 cm and at least 168 warp yarns; The tubular structure includes a first weft yarn that is stiffer than an adjacent second weft yarn; wherein the first weft yarn resists occlusion of the tubular structure when subjected to a vertical force; wherein the first weft yarn is located between warp yarns such that the first weft yarn is integrated into the woven structure of the tubular structure; and a sealing structure having an outer surface aligned with an inner surface of the tubular structure, the inner surface defining a passage of the tubular structure for directing air; and wherein the passageway is configured to deliver air at a therapeutic pressure with a non-zero leak rate, The weight of the sealing structure is less than 75% of the weight of the tubular structure.

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