Respiratory assistance apparatus

Abstract

The invention relates to a breathing assistance device. An apparatus for delivering a gas flow has a housing 3202 'having a recess and an outlet port 3210' for the gas flow The recess is defined by at least one wall 3256, 3262 that is substantially continuous, gas impermeable and uninterrupted in addition to a gas flow passage from the recess to the outlet port of the housing.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of invention patent application 202111230644.6, entitled “Breathing Assistance Device”, filed on October 22, 2021. Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure relates to flow therapy devices for delivering gas to a patient. Background Art

[0003] Respiratory assistance devices are used to deliver a flow of gas to a user or patient in different environments, such as a hospital, medical facility, home care, or home environment. Summary of the invention

[0004] Applicants have identified that some gases, such as, for example, high concentrations of oxygen, present a potential fire or explosion risk if they come into contact with electrical and / or electronic components in a breathing assistance device.

[0005] Applicants have also identified that inserting and / or retaining a liquid chamber in and / or removing it from a chamber base of a breathing assistance device is potentially difficult, particularly for users with limited mobility. Complete or correct insertion and / or retention may be required to ensure a satisfactory seal between the liquid chamber and other components forming part of the airflow path.

[0006] Applicants have also identified potential difficulties in keeping components clean and / or sterile when the components are secured in the housing of a respiratory assistance device.

[0007] Therefore, it would be desirable to provide an apparatus for delivering an airflow that isolates the airflow from electrical and / or electronic components.

[0008] Additionally or alternatively, it would be desirable to provide an apparatus for delivering a gas flow having one or more features that aid in inserting and / or retaining a liquid chamber in a chamber base and / or removing it therefrom.

[0009] Additionally or alternatively, it would be desirable to provide an apparatus for delivering a gas flow having one or more removable components that aid in the use, operation, or configuration of the apparatus.

[0010] An object of one or more of the disclosed embodiments is to provide a device for delivering a flow of air having one or more features that assist in the use, operation or configuration of the device, or improve the safety of the device, or will at least provide a useful choice to the general public or medical professional.

[0011] Thus, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a gas flow is disclosed, the apparatus comprising:

[0012] A housing having:

[0013] Recesses for motor and / or sensor modules,

[0014] an outlet port for airflow, and

[0015] a removable elbow for airflow; and

[0016] A humidifier, the humidifier having:

[0017] Heater,

[0018] a chamber base for receiving the liquid chamber, and

[0019] A lever and / or detent for assisting in inserting and / or retaining the liquid chamber in and / or removing it from the chamber base.

[0020] In some configurations, the apparatus includes a liquid chamber for receiving in the chamber base, the liquid chamber including an inlet port connectable to the outlet port and an outlet port connectable to the removable elbow. In some configurations, at least one of the ports includes one or more flexible fingers configured to provide a positive engagement between the port and a port to which it is connectable.

[0021] In some configurations, the device includes a user interface.

[0022] In some configurations, the chamber base is formed in the housing.

[0023] Additionally, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a gas flow is disclosed, the apparatus comprising:

[0024] a housing having a recess, and

[0025] Outlet port for air flow,

[0026] wherein the recess is defined by at least one wall that is substantially continuous, gas impermeable and uninterrupted except for an airflow passage from the recess to the outlet port of the housing.

[0027] In some configurations, the recess comprises a recessed opening in the outer wall of the housing, wherein the recess extends from the recessed opening into the housing. In some configurations, the recessed opening is located in the bottom of the housing. Alternatively, the recessed opening can be located in a different portion of the housing, such as the side, front, or top of the housing. In some configurations, the recessed opening is located in the top of the housing.

[0028] In some configurations, the recess is configured to receive a motor and / or a sensor module.

[0029] In some configurations, the device includes a motor and / or sensor module positioned in the recess.

[0030] In some configurations, the device is configured so that gas enters the housing via the recess and leaves the housing via the outlet port. In some configurations, the gas is delivered to the outlet port by a gas passage from their inlet to the housing. In some configurations, the gas passage is provided by the motor and / or sensor module.

[0031] In some configurations, the motor and / or sensor module includes a base, a sensing layer, and a cover layer assembled together to form a subassembly housing. In some configurations, the subassembly housing has a shape that is complementary to the shape of the recess.

[0032] In some configurations, the motor and / or sensor module comprises a motor having an impeller, the motor being arranged to deliver gas to the outlet port of the housing. In some configurations, the motor is positioned on the base of the subassembly.

[0033] In some configurations, the base is configured to close the recess opening when the subassembly is positioned in the recess.

[0034] In some configurations, the subassembly is held in place in the recess by a fastener, clamp, or quick release arrangement.

[0035] In some configurations, the sensing layer includes an airflow path having one or more sensors. In some configurations, the airflow path is arranged to deliver gas to the outlet port of the housing. In some configurations, the gas is or includes oxygen. In some configurations, the gas includes a blend of oxygen and ambient air.

[0036] In some configurations, the airflow path includes an elongated airflow portion.

[0037] In some configurations, the airflow path has a tangential inlet portion positioned at or adjacent to an inlet end of the elongated airflow portion.

[0038] In some configurations, the motor and / or sensor module includes an airflow path having a serpentine arrangement.

[0039] In some configurations, the housing includes electrical and / or electronic components, and wherein the recess is configured to isolate the electrical and / or electronic components from airflow through or from the motor and / or sensor module. In some configurations, the airflow channel is provided by an airflow channel tube, and wherein the airflow channel tube extends through an outer tube integrally formed with a portion of the housing.

[0040] In some configurations, the device is constructed such that if a leak occurs in any of the seals of the motor and / or sensor module, oxygen will escape to the atmosphere instead of the electrical and / or electronic components.

[0041] In some configurations, a seal is disposed between a portion of the motor and / or sensor module and the wall of the recess to seal the module to the housing. In some configurations, the seal comprises a soft seal, such as an O-ring. In some configurations, the seal is disposed between a base of the motor and / or sensor module and the wall of the recess. In some configurations, the base supports a motor having an impeller.

[0042] In some configurations, the motor and / or sensor module is removable from the recess. In some alternative configurations, the motor and / or sensor module may not be removable from the recess.

[0043] In some configurations, the motor and / or sensor module includes a motor having an impeller and a gas outlet port, and the gas outlet port is coupled to an inlet port of an adjacent component by a flexible ferrule. In some configurations, the motor and / or sensor module includes a ferrule support member configured to support the ferrule. In some configurations, the ferrule support member includes an upright ferrule support member having an inwardly concave shape and configured to receive and support the ferrule periphery. In some configurations, the gas outlet port end of the ferrule includes an enlarged diameter that rests on an upper end of the ferrule support member.

[0044] In some configurations, it is oxygen or a gas containing oxygen that flows through the gas flow channel and / or the outlet port. In some configurations, the gas is isolated from the electrical and / or electronic components in the housing. In some configurations, the gas contains a blend of oxygen and ambient air.

[0045] Additionally, according to certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a motor and / or sensor module for use in the device is disclosed, the motor and / or sensor module having the features listed above.

[0046] Additionally, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a gas flow is disclosed, the apparatus comprising:

[0047] A humidifier, the humidifier having:

[0048] Heater,

[0049] a chamber base for receiving the liquid chamber, and

[0050] A rod is used to assist in inserting and / or retaining the liquid chamber in the chamber base and / or removing it from the chamber base.

[0051] In some configurations, the rod is configured to assist in one of the insertion, retention, and removal of the liquid chamber. In some configurations, the rod is configured to assist in two of the insertion, retention, and removal of the liquid chamber. In some configurations, the rod is configured to assist in all three of the insertion, retention, and removal of the liquid chamber.

[0052] Different configurations may be constructed to assist in one, two, or all of inserting, retaining, or removing the liquid chamber from the chamber base.

[0053] In some configurations, the chamber base includes relative guide features to assist in guiding the liquid chamber into position in the chamber base. In some configurations, the relative guide features include relative guide rails that are arranged to interact with an outwardly directed annular flange on the liquid chamber.

[0054] In some configurations, the rod is configured such that when the rod is in a first position, the liquid chamber can be inserted into or removed from the chamber base; and is configured such that when the rod is in a second position, the rod inhibits or prevents the liquid chamber from being removed from the chamber base.

[0055] In some configurations, the rod includes at least one liquid chamber engagement feature to engage with a portion of the liquid chamber and drive the liquid chamber to engage within the chamber seat when the rod is moved toward the second position. In some configurations, the device includes two liquid chamber engagement features, wherein the liquid chamber engagement features include inwardly directed protrusions.

[0056] In some configurations, the device includes a positive engagement feature to retain the handle in the second position.

[0057] In some configurations, the pole includes a handle portion to enable the device to be carried when the pole is in the raised position.

[0058] In some configurations, the lever is pivotally connected to the housing of the device. In some configurations, only one side of the lever is pivotally connected to the housing.

[0059] In some configurations, the lever is pivotally and translationally connected to the housing of the device. In some configurations, the device includes a lever holder that is fixed to a portion of the housing, wherein the lever holder and the portion of the housing together provide pivotal and translational movement of the lever relative to the housing.

[0060] In some configurations, the rod is configured to move relative to the housing at a varying travel radius.

[0061] In some configurations, the lever includes a first pivot configured to move along a first pivot cavity, and the lever includes a second pivot configured to move along a second pivot cavity.

[0062] In some configurations, the first pivot cavity is oriented in a substantially up-and-down orientation relative to the housing. In some configurations, the first pivot cavity is substantially straight.

[0063] In some configurations, the second pivot cavity is oriented in a substantially front-to-back direction of the device. In some configurations, the second pivot cavity is arcuate.

[0064] In some configurations, the apparatus includes an engagement feature to retain the second pivot at or adjacent a rearward end of the second pivot cavity to maintain the lever in a raised position.

[0065] In some configurations, the rod is configured to assist in removing the liquid chamber from the chamber base.

[0066] Additionally, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a gas flow is disclosed, the apparatus comprising:

[0067] A humidifier, the humidifier having:

[0068] Heater, and

[0069] a chamber base for the liquid chamber;

[0070] The device includes at least one detent for assisting the insertion and / or retention of the liquid chamber into the chamber base.

[0071] In some configurations, the device includes only one pawl. In some configurations, the device includes two or more pawls.

[0072] In some configurations, the chamber base includes opposing guide features to assist in guiding the liquid chamber into position in the chamber base.

[0073] In some configurations, a detent is disposed adjacent to one of the guide features. In some configurations, two detents are disposed adjacent to corresponding guide features.

[0074] In some configurations, the pawl is disposed on one of the guide features. In some configurations, two pawls are disposed on corresponding guide features.

[0075] In some configurations, the guide feature includes opposing rails arranged to interact with outwardly directed annular flanges on the liquid chamber, and wherein the detent includes an enlarged depression in one or both of the rails. In some configurations, one or both of the rails include an inwardly directed ridge. In some configurations, the inwardly directed ridge has a resilient force sufficient to deform when the liquid chamber is inserted between and / or removed from the rails.

[0076] In some configurations, one or both of the guide features include a protrusion, wherein the liquid chamber includes a recess to receive the protrusion.

[0077] Additionally, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a gas flow is disclosed, the apparatus comprising:

[0078] housing, and

[0079] a removable airflow tube defining an airflow path for airflow, and

[0080] A removable retaining cover is configured such that the removable airflow tube can be removed from the housing when the removable retaining cover is removed from the housing, and the removable airflow tube cannot be removed from the housing when the removable retaining cover is connected to the housing.

[0081] In some configurations, the housing includes a retainer for receiving the removable airflow tube, and wherein the removable retaining cover is configured such that the removable airflow tube can be removed from the housing when the removable retaining cover is removed from the retainer, and the removable airflow tube cannot be removed from the retainer when the removable retaining cover is connected to the housing.

[0082] In some configurations, two discrete actions are required to remove the removable gas flow tube from the holder. In some configurations, the removable retaining cover is removable from the housing by moving the removable cover in a first direction, wherein the removable gas flow tube is removable from the holder by moving the removable gas flow tube in a second direction, the second direction being substantially transverse to the first direction for at least a portion of the movement. In some configurations, the removable gas flow tube includes a gas port for coupling with an outlet port on a liquid chamber arranged to be received in a chamber base of the housing, and the second direction corresponds to a direction of removing the liquid chamber from the chamber base.

[0083] In some configurations, the removable airflow tube includes an electrical connector that is coupled to one or more sensors and / or power connectors in the removable airflow tube. In some configurations, the electrical connector includes a male connector portion that protrudes from a portion of the airflow tube, wherein the housing includes a complementary female connector that is used to receive the male connector when the airflow tube is connected to the housing. In some configurations, the housing includes a male connector portion, and the removable airflow tube includes a complementary female connector that is used to receive the male connector when the airflow tube is connected to the housing.

[0084] In some configurations, the removable airflow tube includes a port having an axis, and the electrical connector is oriented at an angle between about -15 degrees and about +30 degrees relative to the axis, between about 0 degrees and about +30 degrees relative to the axis in some configurations, between about 0 degrees and about +15 degrees relative to the axis in some configurations, and at an angle of about +15 degrees relative to the axis in some configurations. In some configurations, the electrical connector is arranged to be oriented at a non-horizontal angle in use. In some configurations, the electrical connector is oriented at an angle that is non-parallel and non-coaxial relative to the axis. In some configurations, the electrical connector is oriented at an angle between about -5 degrees and about -15 degrees relative to the axis, or between about +5 degrees and about +30 degrees relative to the axis. In some configurations, the electrical connector is oriented at an angle between about +5 degrees and about +30 degrees relative to the axis, in some configurations between about +5 degrees and about +15 degrees relative to the axis, and in some configurations at an angle of about +15 degrees relative to the axis.

[0085] In some configurations, the electrical connector of the removable gas flow tube is coupled to one or more temperature sensors to determine the temperature of the gas flowing through the gas flow tube.

[0086] In some configurations, the electrical connector of the removable airflow tube is connected to a power connector in the removable airflow tube, which is used to connect to and power a heater wire of a patient's breathing conduit, and the removable airflow tube is configured to provide pneumatic and electrical connections to the patient's breathing conduit in a single action when the patient's breathing conduit is connected to the removable airflow tube.

[0087] In some configurations, the removable airflow tube includes a removable elbow.

[0088] Additionally, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a gas flow is disclosed, the apparatus comprising:

[0089] A housing, the housing comprising an upper chassis and a lower chassis,

[0090] an air flow channel defined in the housing between the upper chassis and the lower chassis,

[0091] electrical components located in the housing, and

[0092] A continuous, uninterrupted wall is located in the housing, the wall being adapted to pneumatically isolate the electrical component from the air flow passage.

[0093] In some configurations, oxygen or a gas containing oxygen flows through the gas flow channel. In some configurations, the gas is isolated from the electrical component. In some configurations, the gas contains a blend of oxygen and ambient air.

[0094] In some configurations, the apparatus includes a motor having an impeller to deliver gas through the gas flow channel, wherein the motor is pneumatically isolated from the electrical components. In some configurations, the wall, alone or in combination with one or more additional continuous, uninterrupted walls, defines a recess pneumatically isolated from the electrical components, wherein the motor is positioned within the recess.

[0095] In some configurations, the motor is removable from the recess.

[0096] In some configurations, pressure is lower upstream of the motor impeller and higher downstream of the motor impeller, and the motor includes an electrical connection positioned upstream of the motor impeller in the low pressure region.

[0097] In some configurations, the electrical component includes a printed circuit board.

[0098] Additionally, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a gas flow is disclosed, the apparatus comprising:

[0099] A housing and a rod, wherein only one side of the rod is movably connected to the housing.

[0100] In some configurations, the apparatus includes a heater and a chamber base for receiving the liquid chamber.

[0101] In some configurations, when the lever is in the raised position, a fluid tube may be fed through a space between the lever and the housing.

[0102] In some configurations, the one side of the lever is pivotally connected to the housing.

[0103] In some configurations, when the lever is in the closed position, the lever surrounds a portion of the chamber base.

[0104] In some configurations, the one side of the lever is pivotally and translationally connected to the housing.

[0105] In some configurations, when the lever is in the closed position, a portion of the lever protrudes sufficiently above the floor of the chamber base to prevent the liquid chamber from being removed from the chamber base.

[0106] In some configurations, the one side of the lever is pivotally and translationally connected to the housing.

[0107] In some configurations, the apparatus includes a rod holder secured to a portion of the housing, wherein the rod holder and the portion of the housing together provide pivotal and translational movement of the rod relative to the housing.

[0108] In some configurations, the rod is configured to move relative to the housing at a varying travel radius.

[0109] In some configurations, the lever includes a first pivot configured to move along a first pivot cavity, and wherein the lever includes a second pivot configured to move along a second pivot cavity.

[0110] In some configurations, the first pivot cavity is oriented in a substantially up-and-down orientation relative to the housing. In some configurations, the first pivot cavity is substantially straight.

[0111] In some configurations, the second pivot cavity is oriented in a substantially front-to-back direction of the device. In some configurations, the second pivot cavity is arcuate.

[0112] In some configurations, the apparatus includes an engagement feature to retain the second pivot at or adjacent a rearward end of the second pivot cavity to maintain the lever in a raised position.

[0113] In some configurations, the lever comprises an arm on the one side of the lever, wherein the arm is pivotally, or pivotally and translationally connected to the housing. In some configurations, the lever comprises a crossbar connected to the arm.

[0114] In some configurations, when the lever is in the raised position, there is a space between the housing and the beam on a side of the lever opposite the arm.

[0115] In some configurations, the terminal end of the lever is arranged to be positioned generally above the center of mass of the device when the lever is in the fully raised position.

[0116] In some configurations, the stem includes one or more features for directing the liquid tube to the liquid chamber.

[0117] In some configurations, the rod is configured to assist in inserting and / or retaining the liquid chamber in the chamber base and / or removing the liquid chamber from the chamber base.

[0118] In some configurations, the rod is gas injection molded.

[0119] In some configurations, the stem includes an external seal.

[0120] In some configurations, the face of the lever abuts against the face of the housing throughout movement of the lever from the fully lowered position to the fully raised position.

[0121] In some configurations, the lever and / or housing includes one or more magnets to retain the lever in the fully lowered position and / or the fully raised position.

[0122] Additionally, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a gas flow is disclosed, the apparatus comprising:

[0123] a housing having a recess in an outer wall of the housing, and

[0124] A connector arrangement is positioned in the recess, wherein the connector arrangement comprises one or more ports, and wherein the one or more ports are at a non-horizontal and non-vertical angle between 0 and 90 degrees relative to a vertical axis.

[0125] That is, the one or more ports are at least partially downwardly oriented such that the angle of insertion of the plug into the connector is at least partially upwardly oriented.

[0126] In some configurations, the one or more ports are at an angle between about 5 degrees and about 30 degrees relative to the vertical axis. In some configurations, the one or more ports are at an angle between about 10 degrees and about 20 degrees relative to the vertical axis. In some configurations, the one or more ports are at an angle of about 15 degrees relative to the vertical axis.

[0127] In some configurations, the walls of the recesses are inclined relative to the vertical at an insertion angle of the one or more ports.

[0128] In some configurations, the one or more ports include a communication port. In some configurations, the one or more ports include a USB port.

[0129] In some configurations, a lip is provided on the or each port to reduce the likelihood of water infiltration into the port.

[0130] In some configurations, the device includes a sharp edge or liquid deflector along an upper edge of the recess to encourage liquid to drip from the sharp edge / liquid deflector rather than flow into the recess.

[0131] Additionally, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a gas flow is disclosed, the apparatus comprising:

[0132] case;

[0133] and a removable airflow tube for airflow, wherein the removable airflow tube includes a port having an axis and an electrical connector for coupling to a complementary connector when the airflow tube is connected to the housing, wherein the electrical connector is oriented at an angle between about -15 degrees and about +30 degrees relative to the axis.

[0134] In some configurations, the electrical connector is oriented at an angle between about 0 degrees and about +30 degrees relative to the axis, in some configurations between about 0 degrees and about +15 degrees relative to the axis, and in some configurations at an angle of about +15 degrees relative to the axis.

[0135] In some configurations, the electrical connector is arranged to be oriented at a non-horizontal angle in use.

[0136] In some configurations, the electrical connector is oriented at an angle that is non-parallel and non-coaxial relative to the axis. In some configurations, the electrical connector is oriented at an angle between about -5 degrees and about -15 degrees relative to the axis, or between about +5 degrees and about +30 degrees relative to the axis. In some configurations, the electrical connector is oriented at an angle between about +5 degrees and about +30 degrees relative to the axis, in some configurations between about +5 degrees and about +15 degrees relative to the axis, and in some configurations at an angle of about +15 degrees relative to the axis.

[0137] In some configurations, the removable airflow tube includes a removable elbow.

[0138] Additionally, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a gas flow is disclosed, the apparatus comprising:

[0139] case;

[0140] and a removable airflow tube for airflow, wherein the removable airflow tube includes an electrical connector for coupling to a complementary connector when the airflow tube is connected to the housing, wherein the body of the removable airflow tube is overmolded onto the electrical connector.

[0141] In some configurations, the removable gas flow tube includes a power connector embedded in a portion of the overmolded gas flow tube body. In some configurations, the power connector includes an upwardly projecting pin connector for coupling to and supplying power to a heater wire in a patient's breathing conduit. In some configurations, the pin connectors extend substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the gas outlet port of the elbow.

[0142] In some configurations, the electrical connector includes a PCB electrical connector.

[0143] In some configurations, the removable airflow tube includes a removable elbow.

[0144] Additionally, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a gas flow is disclosed, the apparatus comprising:

[0145] case;

[0146] and a removable gas flow tube for gas flow, wherein the removable gas flow tube defines a gas flow channel and includes an internal sump area in communication with the gas flow channel to allow stagnation of liquid.

[0147] In some configurations, the sump area is provided by an enlarged area in the airflow channel.

[0148] In some configurations, the enlarged area is a depression in the horizontal portion of the airflow channel.

[0149] In some configurations, the gas flow tube includes a temperature sensor positioned adjacent the sump region, the temperature sensor being arranged to determine a temperature representative of the gas flow passage and / or gas characteristics.

[0150] In some configurations, a temperature sensor is used to estimate the humidity of the gas.

[0151] In some configurations, the removable airflow tube includes a removable elbow. In some configurations, the concave pool area is disposed at the intersection of the first port and the second port of the elbow.

[0152] Additionally, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a gas flow is disclosed, the apparatus comprising:

[0153] case;

[0154] and a removable airflow tube defining an airflow passage for airflow, wherein the removable airflow tube includes a PCB electrical connector for coupling to a complementary connector when the airflow tube is connected to the housing.

[0155] In some configurations, the first end of the removable gas flow tube includes a gas port for coupling with an outlet gas port on the liquid chamber. In some configurations, the second end of the removable gas flow tube is configured for connection to a patient breathing conduit.

[0156] In some configurations, the PCB electrical connector portion includes a plurality of connector portions at one end for engaging with complementary conductors in a female connector.Alternatively, in some configurations, the removable airflow tube includes a female connector for receiving a complementary male connector.

[0157] In some configurations, the removable airflow tube includes one or more electrical connectors for coupling to and supplying power to a heating wire in a patient's respiratory conduit. In some configurations, the electrical connector is in electrical communication with a connector portion of the PCB electrical connector.

[0158] In some configurations, the PCB electrical connector includes a surface mounted temperature sensor. The temperature sensor can be, for example, a thermocouple, a digital temperature sensor, or a thermistor. In some configurations, the temperature sensor is in electrical communication with a connector portion of the PCB electrical connector. In some configurations, the temperature sensor is embedded in the body of the airflow tube.

[0159] In some configurations, the removable airflow tube includes a device configured to provide functionality, which includes one or more of identification, calibration functionality, or information capture. In some configurations, the device is configured to provide information, including one or more of the following: tracking data, how long the removable airflow tube has been used, the time when the removable airflow tube is first used, determining the age of the removable airflow tube (e.g., based on the date of manufacture), the number of times the removable airflow tube has been used, determining and recording the connection / disconnection of the removable airflow tube, determining whether disinfection has occurred, the number of times the removable airflow tube has been disinfected, the use time since the last disinfection, the time when the removable airflow tube should be disinfected, the power level, the unique ID, the calibration, the time when the removable airflow tube should be replaced. In some configurations, the removable airflow tube can have a specified service life stored in the device, such as up to 5 years from the beginning of manufacture. In some configurations, the removable airflow tube can have a specified maximum number of disinfection cycles stored in the device before the removable airflow tube should be replaced. For example, the maximum number of disinfection cycles can be a weekly specified number of disinfection cycles that lasts for a specified number of weeks. For example, for a removable airflow tube with a maximum service life of one year, the maximum number of disinfection cycles may be 52 cycles; one cycle per week for one year. As another example, for a removable airflow tube with a maximum service life of five years, the maximum number of disinfection cycles may be 260 cycles; one cycle per week for five years.

[0160] In some configurations, the device includes one or more of a microprocessor, a memory, or a microprocessor with an integrated memory. In some configurations, the device is an EEPROM. In some configurations, the device can be a flash memory or some other type of memory. In some configurations, the device can be configured to store functional data, or can be configured to communicate functional data to a controller of the device via these connector portions or via a suitable wireless transmission protocol (e.g., such as WI-FI, Bluetooth, or GSM).

[0161] In some configurations, the port of the removable gas flow tube includes a T-shaped seal or an L-shaped seal. In some configurations, the port of the removable gas flow tube includes an O-ring.

[0162] In some configurations, the electronics of the removable gas flow tube are sealed to prevent the ingress of liquids and / or gases. In some configurations, the electronics are sealed, for example, by potting.

[0163] In some configurations, the removable airflow tube includes a removable elbow. In some configurations, the temperature sensor is positioned adjacent to the intersection of the first port and the second port of the elbow.

[0164] Additionally, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a gas flow is disclosed, the apparatus comprising:

[0165] a motor and / or sensor module including a motor having an impeller and a gas outlet port, and an outlet gas flow path and a sensing layer having a sensing and gas flow path including a gas flow inlet port for receiving gas from the gas outlet port and a gas flow outlet port;

[0166] The pressure drop coefficient from the gas outlet port to the gas flow path and the sensing layer gas flow outlet port is about 5mPa (L min -1) ) -2 About 50mPa(L min -1 ) -2 between.

[0167] In some configurations, the pressure drop coefficient is about 10 mPa (L min -1 ) -2 About 20mPa(L min -1 ) -2 In some configurations, the pressure drop coefficient is about 15 mPa (L min -1 ) -2 .

[0168] In some configurations, the gas outlet port is coupled to the gas flow inlet port by a flexible ferrule. In some configurations, the motor and / or sensor module includes a ferrule support member configured to support the ferrule. In some configurations, the ferrule support member includes an upright ferrule support member having an inwardly concave shape and configured to receive and support the ferrule periphery. In some configurations, the gas outlet port end of the ferrule includes an enlarged diameter that rests on an upper end of the ferrule support member.

[0169] In some configurations, the motor and / or sensor module is removable from the recess. In some alternative configurations, the motor and / or sensor module may not be removable from the recess.

[0170] Additionally, according to certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a motor and / or sensor module for use in the device is disclosed, the motor and / or sensor module having the features listed above.

[0171] Additionally, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a gas flow is disclosed, the apparatus comprising:

[0172] A shield is used to receive an electrical component, the shield being configured to at least partially surround and protect the electrical component, and the shield being configured to support the electrical component but to enable the electrical component to move within the shield in at least one dimension.

[0173] In some configurations, the shield is configured to enable the electrical component to move in one dimension. In some configurations, the shield is configured to enable the electrical component to move in a first substantially horizontal dimension or in a second substantially horizontal dimension.

[0174] In some configurations, the shield is configured to enable the electrical component to move in two dimensions. In some configurations, the shield is configured to enable the electrical component to move in a first substantially horizontal dimension and in a second substantially horizontal dimension.

[0175] In some configurations, the shield is configured to enable the electrical component to move in three dimensions. In some configurations, the shield is configured to enable the electrical component to move in a first substantially horizontal dimension, in a second substantially horizontal dimension, and in a substantially vertical dimension.

[0176] In some configurations, the shield is configured to allow limited movement of the electrical component in at least one dimension, the limited movement sufficient to accommodate tolerance misalignments in the component.

[0177] In some configurations, the electrical component is an electrical connector.

[0178] In some configurations, the shield is disposed within the device for delivering the airflow. In some configurations, the shield is disposed within the motor and / or sensor module.

[0179] Additionally, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a gas flow is disclosed, the apparatus comprising:

[0180] case,

[0181] The heater in the housing,

[0182] a chamber base in the housing, the chamber base being adapted to receive the liquid chamber, and

[0183] A rod is movably connected to the housing, wherein the rod surrounds a portion of the chamber base when the rod is in the closed position.

[0184] In some configurations, when the lever is in the closed position, a portion of the lever protrudes sufficiently above the floor of the chamber base to prevent the liquid chamber from being removed from the chamber base.

[0185] In some configurations, only one side of the lever is movably connected to the housing.

[0186] In some configurations, the lever is pivotally connected to the housing.

[0187] Additionally, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a gas flow is disclosed, the apparatus comprising:

[0188] A gas flow tube for gas flow, the gas flow tube being configured to couple to a gas flow outlet from a flow generator, wherein the connection to the gas flow outlet is within an outer tube that allows gas to vent to the atmosphere but is pneumatically isolated from the electrical components by a continuous, uninterrupted wall.

[0189] In some configurations, the flow generator includes a motor having an impeller, wherein the motor is pneumatically isolated from the electrical components by a continuous, uninterrupted wall.

[0190] In some configurations, the wall, either alone or in combination with one or more additional continuous, uninterrupted walls, defines a recess that is pneumatically isolated from the electrical component, and wherein the motor is positioned within the recess.

[0191] In some configurations, pressure is lower upstream of the motor impeller and higher downstream of the motor impeller, and wherein the motor includes an electrical connection positioned upstream of the motor impeller in the low pressure region.

[0192] In some configurations, the connection between the airflow tube and the airflow outlet in the conduit includes at least one seal between the airflow tube, the airflow outlet and / or the outer tube. In some configurations, the at least one seal allows the airflow outlet to move laterally in the outer tube. The seal may include, for example, a face seal between the airflow outlet and the airflow tube. In some configurations, the at least one seal allows the airflow outlet to move both laterally and axially in the outer tube. The seal may include, for example, a bellows seal. Therefore, depending on the configuration, the seal may include, for example, an O-ring, a T-seal, an L-seal, a face seal, or a foam.

[0193] Additionally, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a gas flow is disclosed, the apparatus comprising:

[0194] A housing includes an upper chassis and a lower chassis, and a substantially continuous tongue and groove arrangement between the upper chassis and the lower chassis.

[0195] In some configurations, the upper chassis includes left and right side walls, and the lower chassis includes left and right side walls, and the tongue and groove arrangement is provided between the left and right side walls of the upper and lower chassis.

[0196] In some configurations, the apparatus includes a chamber base for receiving the liquid chamber, and the tongue-and-groove arrangement is disposed between the upper chassis and the lower chassis around substantially an entire perimeter of the chamber base.

[0197] In some configurations, the apparatus includes at least one tongue and groove having a beveled edge. In some configurations, the apparatus includes at least one tongue and groove arrangement having a space between a portion of the tongue and a portion of the groove.

[0198] Additionally, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a gas flow is disclosed, the apparatus comprising:

[0199] case,

[0200] A mounting for mounting the device on a bracket or support, and

[0201] A projection is configured to cause the device to lean toward the bracket or support when mounted to the bracket or support.

[0202] In some configurations, the mounting member includes a tongue, and the protrusion is disposed on the tongue.

[0203] In some configurations, the protrusion is configured to cause the device to lean inwardly toward the bracket at a suitable angle, such as, for example, 1-15°, or 1-10°, or 1-7°, or 1-5°, or 1-2°.

[0204] Additionally, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a gas flow is disclosed, the apparatus comprising:

[0205] housing, and

[0206] A mounting member is used to mount the device to a bracket or support, wherein the mounting member is integrally formed with a portion of the housing.

[0207] Additionally, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a gas flow is disclosed, the apparatus comprising:

[0208] housing, and

[0209] An airflow tube defines an airflow passage for airflow, wherein the airflow tube includes a T-shaped seal or an L-shaped seal to assist in sealing an end of the airflow tube to another component.

[0210] Additionally, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a gas flow is disclosed, the apparatus comprising:

[0211] case,

[0212] a recess in the housing for receiving a motor and / or a sensor module, and

[0213] A component for providing functionality to the device and being securable to the housing, wherein the component includes a retaining feature arranged to extend beneath the base of the motor and / or sensor module so as to maintain the motor and / or sensor module in a proper position in the recess in the housing.

[0214] In some configurations, the component includes a battery that can be fixed to the housing. In some configurations, the battery includes a base flange or other protruding feature that is arranged to extend below the base of the motor and / or sensor module. In some configurations, the component includes different functional components.

[0215] Additionally, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a gas flow is disclosed, the apparatus comprising:

[0216] case,

[0217] An electrical connector comprising a receiving socket in the housing, the receiving socket being arranged to receive a plug of a power cord by moving the plug in a first direction, the electrical connector comprising a retainer to maintain the plug engaged with the socket by moving the retainer in a second direction, the second direction being substantially transverse to the first direction.

[0218] In some configurations, the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction. In some configurations, the first direction is vertical and the second direction is horizontal.

[0219] Features from one or more embodiments may be combined with features from one or more other embodiments. Additionally, more than one embodiment may be used together during respiratory support of a patient.

[0220] The term "comprising" as used in this specification means "consisting at least in part of..." When interpreting each statement in this specification containing the term "comprising", there may also be features other than the one or those features following the term. Related terms such as "comprise and comprises" are interpreted in the same way.

[0221] It should be understood that alternative embodiments may include any or all combinations of two or more of the parts, elements or features shown, described or mentioned in this specification.

[0222] The present invention may also be broadly stated to lie in the parts, elements and features mentioned or indicated in the specification of the present application individually or collectively, and any or all combinations of any two or more of said parts, elements or features.

[0223] For those skilled in the art to which the present invention relates, the many variations in structure and the widely varying embodiments and applications of the present invention will suggest that they do not depart from the scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims. The disclosure and description herein are entirely illustrative and are not intended to be limiting in any sense. When reference is made herein to specific integers having known equivalents in the art to which the present invention relates, such known equivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as well, just as if individually listed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0224] Specific embodiments and modifications thereof will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the detailed description herein with reference to the following drawings, in which:

[0225] Figure 1 Shown in diagrammatic form is a respiratory assistance device in the form of a flow therapy device.

[0226] Figure 2 is a front view of the flow therapy device with the humidifier chamber in place and the handle / lever raised.

[0227] Figure 3 is corresponding to Figure 2 Top view.

[0228] Figure 4 is corresponding to Figure 2 Right side view.

[0229] Figure 5 is corresponding to Figure 2 Left side view.

[0230] Figure 6 is corresponding to Figure 2 Rear view of.

[0231] Figure 7 is corresponding to Figure 2 Left front perspective view.

[0232] Figure 8 is corresponding to Figure 2 Rear-front perspective view.

[0233] Fig. 9is corresponding to Figure 2 Bottom view of the .

[0234] Fig.10 A first configuration of an air and oxygen inlet arrangement for a flow therapy device is shown.

[0235] Fig.11 A second configuration of the air and oxygen inlet arrangement for a flow therapy device is shown.

[0236] Fig.12 It is shown Fig.11 A cross-sectional view of additional details of the air and oxygen inlet arrangements.

[0237] Fig.13 It is shown Fig.11 Another cross-sectional view of additional details of the air and oxygen inlet arrangement.

[0238] Fig.14 It is shown Fig.11 A longitudinal section view of other details of the air and oxygen inlet arrangement.

[0239] Fig.15 is an exploded view of the upper chassis component and the lower chassis component of the main housing of the flow therapy device.

[0240] Fig.16 is a front left perspective view of the lower chassis of the main housing, showing the housing for receiving the motor and / or sensor module subassembly.

[0241] Fig.17a is a first bottom perspective view of the main housing of the flow therapy device showing the recess for the motor and / or sensor module subassembly located inside the housing.

[0242] Fig.17b is a second bottom perspective view of the main housing of the flow therapy device showing the recess for the motor and / or sensor module subassembly.

[0243] Fig.18 is a rear exploded perspective view schematically illustrating the airflow path through the flow therapy device via arrows.

[0244] Fig.19 is a perspective view of the motor and / or sensor subassembly, the underside of the main housing, and the fixed elbow of the flow therapy device.

[0245] Fig. 20 is an exploded perspective view of components of a motor and / or sensor subassembly, schematically illustrating the airflow path through the subassembly via arrows.

[0246] Fig.21is a bottom side view of the cover and sensing PCB of the motor and / or sensor subassembly, showing the location of the sensor.

[0247] Fig.22a is a rear perspective view of the flow therapy device cut adjacent a rear edge of the device illustrating the arrangement of a portion of the main housing providing a recess for receiving a motor and / or sensor subassembly.

[0248] Figure 22b is similar to Fig.22a But closer is a cutaway view of the front of the device.

[0249] Fig.22c is similar to Figure 22b But closer is a cutaway view of the front of the device.

[0250] Fig.22d is similar to Fig.22c But closer is a cutaway view of the front of the device.

[0251] Fig.22e is similar to Fig.22d But closer is a cutaway view of the front of the device.

[0252] Figure 22f is similar to Fig.22e But closer is a cutaway view of the front of the device.

[0253] Fig.23 is a front left perspective view of a fluid chamber for use in a flow therapy device.

[0254] Fig.24 is a front left perspective view of some components of a flow therapy device.

[0255] Fig.25 is similar to Fig.24 , but with the removable elbow retaining cover removed from the main housing.

[0256] Fig.26a yes Fig.25 A top perspective view of a removable elbow retaining cover.

[0257] Figure 26b yes Fig.25 A bottom side perspective view of a removable elbow retaining cover.

[0258] Fig. 27 is a top perspective view of the removable elbow as it is attached to the main housing.

[0259] Fig.28 is a perspective view of a removable elbow.

[0260] Fig.29is a cross-sectional view of the removable elbow showing the electrical components and airflow path.

[0261] Fig.30 is an exploded view showing the removable elbow disconnected from the electrical connector of the main housing.

[0262] Fig.31 An exemplary electrical connector is shown for use in a main housing.

[0263] Fig.32 It is shown Fig.30 and 31 Exploded view of a connector protective cover of an electrical connector.

[0264] Fig.33 is a front perspective view of a flow therapy device showing a first configuration humidifier base for receiving a humidifier chamber with the handle / lever in a raised position.

[0265] Fig.34 is similar to Fig.33 but with the humidifier chamber partially located in the humidifier base and positioned by the guide rails.

[0266] Fig.35 is similar to Fig.34 , with the handle / lever partially lowered to move the humidifier chamber further into engagement with the humidifier base.

[0267] Fig.36 is similar to Fig.35 with the handle / lever further lowered.

[0268] Fig.37 is similar to Fig.36 with the handle / lever almost fully lowered.

[0269] Fig.38 is similar to Fig.37 with the handle / lever fully lowered and engaged with the retention feature.

[0270] Fig.39 is a top front perspective view of a flow therapy device showing a second configuration humidifier base for receiving a humidifier chamber, the second configuration humidifier base having a guide with an alternative configuration of detents for positioning the chamber in the humidifier base, and wherein a handle / lever is configured to assist in removing the liquid chamber from the chamber base.

[0271] Fig.40 is a top front perspective view of the left side rail and pawl.

[0272] Fig.41 is a top front perspective view of the right side rail and pawl.

[0273] Fig.42 is a top perspective view of a retention feature for engaging the handle / lever in a lowered or closed position.

[0274] Fig.43 yes Figures 39 to 42 A top front perspective view of the left side of the device showing the humidifier chamber engaged with the detent.

[0275] Fig.44 yes Figures 39 to 43 A top front perspective view of the device of FIG. 1 showing an alternative configuration handle / lever in a raised position.

[0276] Fig.45 yes Fig.44 A top front perspective view of the device of FIG. 1 showing the handle / lever in a lowered or closed position.

[0277] Fig.46 yes Fig.44 A top front perspective view of the left side of the device showing details of the handle / lever.

[0278] Fig.47 yes Fig.44 A top front perspective view of the left side of the device showing exemplary pivot details of the handle / lever.

[0279] Fig.48 is a top front perspective view showing details of the handle / lever pivot.

[0280] Fig.49 yes Fig.44 A top front perspective view of the left side of the device of FIG. 1 with the handle / lever in a raised position.

[0281] Fig.50 yes Fig.44 A top front perspective view of the device showing the chamber positioned in the humidifier base and with the handle / lever in a raised position.

[0282] Fig.51 Shows the positioning Fig.44 The device is in the chamber below the guide rail.

[0283] Fig.52 yes Fig.44 A top front perspective view of the device of FIG. 1 with the chamber positioned below the guide rail and the handle / lever in the fully lowered or closed position.

[0284] Fig.53 is a view of a user interface display of the flow therapy device of any of the above figures.

[0285] Fig.54 yes Fig.53 A longitudinal cross-sectional view of a user interface display showing a button configuration.

[0286] Fig.55 is a top front perspective view of a flow therapy device showing an alternative configuration handle / lever with the handle / lever in a lowered or closed position.

[0287] Fig.56 is corresponding to Fig.55 , but with the handle / lever in a partially raised position.

[0288] Fig.57 is corresponding to Fig.55 but with the handle in a fully raised or open position and with the liquid chamber positioned within the chamber base.

[0289] Fig.58 is a right side view of the flow therapy device, but with the handle / lever in a partially raised position and with the fluid chamber positioned in the chamber base.

[0290] Fig.59 is corresponding to Fig.55 , but with the liquid chamber positioned within the chamber base.

[0291] Fig.60 yes Figures 55 to 59 A longitudinal cross-sectional view of a flow therapy device of FIG. 1 showing the pivotal mounting of the handle / lever to the main housing when the handle / lever is in a lowered or closed position.

[0292] Fig.61 is corresponding to Fig.60 , but with the handle / lever in a partially raised position.

[0293] Fig.62 is corresponding to Fig.60 , but with the handle / lever in the fully raised or open position.

[0294] Fig.63 is a perspective cutaway view with the handle / bar in Fig.61 in the position.

[0295] Fig.64 is corresponding to Fig.63 but with the handle / lever in Fig.62 in the fully raised or open position.

[0296] Fig.65 It is for Figure 19-21 or Figure 78-101 A view of a motor used in a motor and / or sensor module subassembly.

[0297] Fig.66 is a side perspective view of an alternative removable elbow for use in a flow therapy device, the elbow being shown removed from the main housing.

[0298] Fig.67 yes Fig.66 Front / side perspective view of a removable elbow.

[0299] Fig.68 yes Fig.66 Bottom rear perspective view of the removable elbow.

[0300] Fig.69 yes Fig.66 A partial cross-sectional view of a removable elbow.

[0301] Fig.70 yes Fig.66 A top perspective view of a PCB electrical connector with a removable elbow.

[0302] Fig.71 yes Fig.70 Top side plan view of a PCB electrical connector.

[0303] Fig.72 is a side perspective view of another alternative removable elbow for use in a flow therapy device, the elbow being shown removed from the main housing.

[0304] Fig.73 yes Fig.72 Bottom rear perspective view of the removable elbow.

[0305] Fig.74 yes Fig.72 Front / side perspective view of a removable elbow.

[0306] Fig.75 yes Fig.72 Top plan view of the PCB electrical connector with removable elbow.

[0307] Fig.76 is a partial top front perspective view of a carrier for a display and user interface module, the carrier being part of a main housing of one of the flow therapy devices, having a housing configured to receive a Fig.66 Or a bend receiver for a removable bend of 72.

[0308] Fig.77 yes Fig.76 A top front perspective view of the carrier and bent tube receiver.

[0309] Fig.78 is a perspective view of a motor and / or sensor subassembly for use in a flow therapy device.

[0310] Fig.79yes Fig.78 A perspective view of the base of the motor and / or sensor subassembly.

[0311] Fig.80 yes Fig.79 Another perspective view of the base of the motor and / or sensor subassembly.

[0312] Fig.81 Assembled with motor / blower unit Fig.79 and 80 A top perspective view of the base of the .

[0313] Fig.82 yes Fig.81 Another top side perspective view of the base and motor / blower unit.

[0314] Fig.83 yes Fig.78 Bottom view of the base of the motor and / or sensor subassembly.

[0315] Fig.84 yes Fig.78 A perspective view of a motor and / or sensor subassembly of FIG. 1 , wherein portions of the cover layer are not shown and a coupling tube or ferrule is shown.

[0316] Fig.85 yes Fig.78 A perspective view of a mid-section of a motor and / or sensor subassembly, and an upper portion of the airflow path schematically shown from the cover layer.

[0317] Fig.86 yes Fig.85 Top view of the mid section portion.

[0318] Fig.87 yes Fig.86 A top perspective view of these parts.

[0319] Fig.88 yes Fig.78 A top side perspective view of the outlet airflow path of a motor and / or sensor subassembly and the sensing layer (which forms the lower portion of the airflow path).

[0320] Fig.89 yes Fig.78 A bottom perspective view of the cover layer of the motor and / or sensor subassembly (which forms the upper portion of the airflow path).

[0321] Fig.90 Is the PCB in place Fig.78 A top side rear perspective view of a mid-section of a motor and / or sensor subassembly and schematically illustrating an upper portion of the airflow path as viewed from the cover layer.

[0322] Fig.91There is no PCB in place Fig.78 A top side rear perspective view of a mid-section of a motor and / or sensor subassembly.

[0323] Fig.92 yes Fig.78 Bottom side perspective view of the outlet airflow path and sensing layer of the motor and / or sensor subassembly.

[0324] Fig.93 yes Fig.78 Top view of the overlay of the motor and sensor subassembly.

[0325] Fig.94 yes Fig.92 A top perspective view of the covering layer.

[0326] Fig.95 yes Fig.93 Bottom side view of the covering layer.

[0327] Fig.96 yes Fig.78 The gas outlet port of the motor and / or sensor subassembly is Figure 1 Schematic representation of a sealing arrangement between parts of a housing of a flow therapy device.

[0328] Fig.97 Shown through Fig.78 The airflow path of the motor and / or sensor subassembly.

[0329] Fig.98 yes Fig.78 Another top side perspective view of the motor and / or sensor subassembly.

[0330] Fig.99 is used for Fig.78 Schematic diagram of the sealing arrangement of the motor and / or sensor subassembly PCB.

[0331] Fig.100 yes Fig.78 A top side perspective view of the PCB of the motor and / or sensor subassembly.

[0332] Fig.101 is a top front perspective view of a flow therapy device showing an alternative configuration handle / lever with the handle / lever in a lowered or closed position.

[0333] Fig.102 yes Fig.101 An exploded top side front perspective view of some components of the device.

[0334] Fig.103 yes Fig.101 An exploded bottom perspective view of some components of the device.

[0335] Fig.104 yes Fig.101 An exploded top side perspective view of some components of the device.

[0336] Fig.105 yes Fig.101 A left side view of some components of the handle / lever arrangement of the device.

[0337] Fig.106 is similar to Fig.105 , but showing the path of travel of the pivot axis of the handle / lever.

[0338] Fig.107 It is shown Fig.101 A top perspective view of the handle / lever of the device.

[0339] Fig.108 yes Fig.101 Left side view of a portion of the device with the handle / lever in a substantially lowered or closed position.

[0340] Fig.109 is corresponding to Fig.108 with the handle / lever in a partially raised position.

[0341] Fig.110 is corresponding to Fig.108 , with the handle / lever in a further raised position.

[0342] Fig.111 is corresponding to Fig.108 with the handle / lever in the fully raised position.

[0343] Fig.112 yes Fig.101 A detail view of a portion of a handle / lever arrangement showing detail of a stepped feature in the pivot cavity for the front pivot of the handle / lever arrangement.

[0344] Fig.113 It is shown Fig.101 A drawing of the movement path of the terminal end of the handle / lever arrangement of the device.

[0345] Fig.114 It is shown Fig.106 and 108 Alternative Configurations for the Pivot Cavity of 112 A view of a second pivot cavity.

[0346] Fig.115 It is shown Fig.101 Left side cross-sectional view of a detail of the handle / lever arrangement of the device of FIG. 1 , with the handle / lever in a partially raised position.

[0347] Fig.116 is corresponding to Fig.115 with the handle / lever in the fully raised position.

[0348] Fig.117 yes Fig.101 A top left front perspective view of the device of FIG. 1 showing the handle / lever in a partially raised position.

[0349] Fig.118 It is shown Fig.101 A top front perspective view of the housing, elbow arrangement and removable retaining cover of the device.

[0350] Fig.119 It is shown Fig.118 Underside front view of detail of the removable retaining cover.

[0351] Fig.120 It is shown Fig.101 A top right front perspective view of a housing and alternative removable retaining cover of a device with the retaining cover removed from the housing.

[0352] Fig.121 is similar to Fig.120 , but showing the retaining cover engaged with the housing.

[0353] Fig.122 yes Fig.101 A top side perspective view of an electrical connector arrangement of a device.

[0354] Fig.123 yes Fig.122 Another top side perspective view of an electrical connector arrangement.

[0355] Fig.124 yes Fig.122 A bottom perspective view of an electrical connector arrangement.

[0356] Fig.125 yes Fig.122 A top perspective view of an electrical connector arrangement illustrating the steps of connecting a power cord to a socket.

[0357] Fig.126 yes Fig.101 A perspective view of a portion of the interior of the device showing the power harness guide.

[0358] Fig.127 yes Fig.126 A perspective view of a power harness guide.

[0359] Fig.128 is from Fig.127 1 is a perspective view of the power harness guide as viewed from the opposite side.

[0360] Fig.129 yes Fig.101A bottom rear perspective view of the area of ​​the device housing that receives the power cord.

[0361] Fig.130 is a top front perspective view from the inside of the housing showing the housing and Fig.129 The area corresponding to the area.

[0362] Fig.131 It passes through Fig.101 A side cutaway view of a USB connector arrangement of a device.

[0363] Fig.132 yes Fig.101 A rear perspective view of the device showing the battery pack and Fig.131 USB connector arrangement.

[0364] Fig.133 yes Fig.101 A side perspective view of a device of claim 1 showing an integral mounting for mounting the device to a post or bracket.

[0365] Fig.134 Is mounted to a support or bracket Fig.101 Schematic side perspective view of a device.

[0366] Fig.135 yes Fig.101 A perspective view of a PCB electrical connector of a device, wherein the connector has an overmolded ring.

[0367] Fig.136 yes Fig.101 A top front perspective view of the lower chassis of the device showing Fig.135 Example placement of PCB electrical connectors.

[0368] Fig.137 yes Fig.72 Side view of a removable elbow with the T-seal in place on the elbow.

[0369] Fig.138 yes Fig.137 A cross-sectional view of the T-seal shown without it being in place on the elbow.

[0370] Fig.139 yes Fig.137 and 138 A schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a T-seal showing exemplary dimensions.

[0371] Fig.140 is a perspective view of an alternative configuration removable elbow and an alternative configuration T-seal for use in a flow therapy device.

[0372] Fig.141 yes Fig.140A perspective cutaway view of a removable elbow and T-seal.

[0373] Fig.142 is a perspective view of an alternative configuration removable elbow for use in a flow therapy device and a matching T-shaped seal similar to the L-shaped seal.

[0374] Fig.143 yes Fig.142 A perspective cutaway view of a removable elbow and seal.

[0375] Fig.144 The removable elbow is shown coupled to the inlet port of the liquid chamber's outlet port, showing the mechanical counterweight feature.

[0376] Fig.145 yes Fig.101 A bottom rear perspective view of an alternative configuration of the lower chassis of a flow therapy device in the area where the electrical connector is located.

[0377] Fig.146 yes Fig.145 A bottom perspective view of a retainer of an electrical connector.

[0378] Fig.147 yes Fig.146 Top side view of the retainer.

[0379] Fig.148 is a front top perspective view of an alternative configuration inlet elbow for use in a flow therapy device.

[0380] Fig.149 yes Fig.148 Bottom rear perspective view of the inlet elbow.

[0381] Fig.150 yes Fig.148 and 149 Front perspective view of the inlet elbow showing the one-way valve.

[0382] Fig.151 yes Fig.101 A top side front perspective view of an alternative lower chassis of a flow treatment device showing the tongue and / or groove features.

[0383] Fig.152 yes Fig.151 Another top front perspective view of the lower chassis of the device showing the tongue and / or groove features.

[0384] Fig.153 yes Fig.101 A top side rear perspective view of an alternative upper chassis of a flow therapy device showing the tongue and / or groove features.

[0385] Fig.154 yes Fig.153A top side front perspective view of an upper chassis showing the tongue and / or groove features.

[0386] Fig.155 Is has Figures 151 to 154 The upper and lower chassis Fig.101 A partial side cross-sectional view of a flow therapy device showing the location of the tongue and groove arrangement.

[0387] Fig.156 is a view showing detail D156 of the tongue and groove arrangement in the battery area.

[0388] Fig.157 is a view showing detail D157 of the tongue and groove arrangement.

[0389] Fig.158 is a view showing detail D158 of the tongue and groove arrangement.

[0390] Fig.159 is a view showing detail D159 of the tongue and groove arrangement.

[0391] Fig.160 is a view of detail D160 of the tongue and groove arrangement in the communications connector arrangement area.

[0392] Fig.161 is a schematic diagram of a tongue and groove arrangement of one configuration for use in a flow therapy device.

[0393] Fig.162 is a schematic diagram of another configuration of a tongue and groove arrangement for use in a flow therapy device.

[0394] Fig.163 yes Fig.101 , showing the larger battery in place on the rear of the device.

[0395] Fig.164 Is has Fig.163 A bottom side rear perspective view of the device showing a battery is shown illustrating the overlap between the base flange of the battery and the motor and / or sensor module.

[0396] Fig.165 is a side perspective view of an alternative removable elbow for use in a flow therapy device.

[0397] Fig.166 yes Fig.165 Bottom side view of the removable elbow.

[0398] Fig.167 yes Fig.166 A top perspective view of a PCB electrical connector with a removable elbow.

[0399] Fig.168 yes Fig.167A plan view of a PCB electrical connector.

[0400] Fig.169 yes Fig.165 A partially transparent top side perspective view of the removable elbow showing some details of the PCB electrical connector.

[0401] Fig.170 yes Fig.165 A partially transparent top side perspective view of a removable elbow showing alternative details of a PCB electrical connector.

[0402] Fig.171 yes Fig.165 A partially transparent top side perspective view of a removable elbow showing alternative details of a PCB electrical connector.

[0403] Fig.172 yes Fig.165 A partially transparent top side perspective view of a removable elbow showing alternative details of a PCB electrical connector.

[0404] Fig.173 is a top perspective view of a carrier for a display and user interface module that is part of the main housing of one of the flow therapy devices.

[0405] Fig.174 yes Fig.173 A bottom perspective view of the vehicle.

[0406] Fig.175 is used with Fig.173 and 174 A bottom perspective view of a removable retaining cover for use with a carrier.

[0407] Fig.176 is used to Fig.175 The removable retaining cover is connected to Fig.173 and 174 Perspective view of the flexible tether on the carrier

[0408] Fig.177 is a perspective view of a motor and / or sensor subassembly for use in a flow therapy device.

[0409] Fig.178 is a top side perspective view of the base of the motor and / or sensor subassembly.

[0410] Fig.179 is a top perspective view of the base and midsection of the motor and / or sensor subassembly.

[0411] Fig.180 is a bottom side view of a mid section of a motor and / or sensor subassembly.

[0412] Fig.181is a perspective view of a mid-section of a motor and / or sensor subassembly.

[0413] Fig.182 is a top side perspective view of the cover layer of the motor and / or sensor subassembly.

[0414] Fig.183 is a partial exploded view of some components of the motor and / or sensor subassembly.

[0415] Fig.184 is a perspective view of a patient breathing tube arrangement utilizing a T-seal or an L-seal.

[0416] Fig.185 Shows Fig.184 The internal portion of the connector of the patient breathing tube arrangement.

[0417] Fig.186 yes Fig.184 and 185 A partially transparent view of the connectors of a patient breathing tube arrangement. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0418] 1. Introduction

[0419] Figure 1 Flow therapy device 10 is shown. Generally speaking, device 10 includes a main housing 100 that houses a flow generator 11 in the form of a motor / impeller arrangement, an optional humidifier 12, a controller 13, and a user I / O interface 14 (including, for example, a display and input means, such as buttons, a touch screen, etc.). Controller 13 is configured or programmed to control the components of the device, including: operating flow generator 11 to generate a gas flow (airflow) for delivery to a patient; operating humidifier 12 (if present) to humidify and / or heat the generated airflow; receiving user input from user interface 14 for reconfiguration and / or user-defined operation of device 10; and outputting information to the user (e.g., on a display). The user may be a patient, a healthcare professional, or any other person interested in using the device.

[0420] The patient's breathing conduit 16 is connected to the airflow outlet 344 in the housing 100 of the flow therapy device 10, and is connected to a patient interface 17 (such as a nasal cannula) having a manifold 19 and a nasal prong tube 18. Additionally or alternatively, the patient's breathing conduit 16 can be connected to a mask. Additionally or alternatively, the patient's breathing conduit can be connected to a nasal pillow nasal mask, and / or a nasal mask, and / or a tracheostomy interface, or any other suitable type of patient interface. The airflow generated by the flow therapy device 10, which can be humidified, is delivered to the patient via the patient's breathing conduit 16 through the cannula 17. The patient's breathing conduit 16 can have a heating wire 16a to heat the airflow passing through to the patient. The heating wire 16a is controlled by the controller 13. The patient's breathing conduit 16 and / or the patient's interface 17 can be considered as part of the flow therapy device 10, or alternatively on the periphery of the flow therapy device. The flow therapy device 10, the breathing conduit 16 and the patient's interface 17 together form a flow therapy system.

[0421] The general operation of the flow therapy respiratory apparatus 10 will be known to those skilled in the art and need not be described in detail herein. However, in general, the controller 13 controls the flow generator 11 to produce an airflow having a desired flow rate; controls one or more valves to control the mixing of air and oxygen or other alternative gases; and controls the humidifier 12 (if present) to humidify the airflow and / or heat the airflow to an appropriate level. The airflow is directed to the patient through the patient breathing conduit 16 and the cannula 17. The controller 13 can also control the heating element in the humidifier 12 and / or the heating element 16a in the patient breathing conduit 16 to heat the gas to a desired temperature, thereby achieving a desired level of patient therapy and / or comfort. The controller 13 can be programmed with or can determine a suitable target airflow temperature.

[0422] Operational sensors 3a, 3b, 3c, 20, 25 (such as flow, temperature, humidity and / or pressure sensors) can be placed in different locations in the flow therapy device 10 and / or the patient's respiratory conduit 16 and / or cannula 17. The output from the sensors can be received by the controller 13 to assist the controller in operating the flow therapy device 10 in a manner that provides optimal treatment. In some configurations, providing optimal treatment includes meeting the patient's inspiratory needs. The device 10 can have a transmitter and / or receiver 15 to enable the controller 13 to receive 8 signals from the sensors and / or control different components of the flow therapy device 10, including but not limited to the flow generator 11, the humidifier 12 and the heating wire 16a, or accessories or peripherals associated with the flow therapy device 10. Additionally or alternatively, the transmitter and / or receiver 15 can deliver data to a remote server or enable remote control of the device 10.

[0423] The flow therapy device 10 can be any suitable type of device, but in some configurations, a high flow of gas or high flow therapy (e.g., air, oxygen, other gas mixtures, or some combination thereof) can be delivered to a patient to assist breathing and / or treat a respiratory disorder. In some configurations, the gas is or includes oxygen. In some configurations, the gas includes a blend of oxygen and ambient air. "High flow therapy" as used in this disclosure can refer to delivering gas to a patient at a flow rate greater than or equal to about 10 liters per minute (10 LPM). In some configurations, "high flow therapy" may refer to delivering gas to a patient at a flow rate of between about 10 LPM and about 100 LPM, or between about 15 LPM and about 95 LPM, or between about 20 LPM and about 90 LPM, or between about 25 LPM and about 85 LPM, or between about 30 LPM and about 80 LPM, or between about 35 LPM and about 75 LPM, or between about 40 LPM and about 70 LPM, or between about 45 LPM and about 65 LPM, or between about 50 LPM and about 60 LPM. The delivered gas may contain a percentage of oxygen. In some configurations, the percentage of oxygen in the delivered gas can be between about 20% and about 100%, or between about 30% and about 100%, or between about 40% and about 100%, or between about 50% and about 100%, or between about 60% and about 100%, or between about 70% and about 100%, or between about 80% and about 100%, or between about 90% and about 100%, or about 100%, or 100%.

[0424] High flow therapy has been found to be effective in meeting or exceeding the patient's inspiratory needs, enhancing the patient's oxygenation and / or reducing the work of breathing. Additionally, high flow therapy can produce a flushing effect in the nasopharynx, such that the anatomical dead space of the upper airway is flushed by the high inflow gas flow. This creates a reservoir of fresh gas available for each breath while minimizing rebreathing of carbon dioxide, nitrogen, etc.

[0425] The patient interface may be a non-sealing interface to prevent barotrauma (e.g., tissue damage to the lungs or other organs of the respiratory system due to a pressure differential relative to the atmosphere). The patient interface may be a nasal cannula with a manifold and nasal prongs, and / or a face mask, and / or a nasal pillow mask, and / or a nasal mask, and / or a tracheostomy interface, or any other suitable type of patient interface.

[0426] like Figures 2 to 54 As shown and described below, the flow therapy device 10 has various features to assist in the operation, use, and / or configuration of the device 10 .

[0427] 2. Includes an overview of the main case description

[0428] like Figures 2 to 18As shown, the flow therapy device 10 includes a main housing 100. The main housing 100 has a main housing upper chassis 102 and a main housing lower chassis 202.

[0429] The main housing upper chassis 102 has a peripheral wall arrangement 106. The peripheral wall arrangement defines a humidifier or liquid chamber base 108 for receiving a removable liquid chamber 300. The removable liquid chamber 300 contains a suitable liquid, such as water, for humidifying gas to be delivered to a patient.

[0430] In the illustrated form, the peripheral wall arrangement 106 of the main housing upper chassis 102 includes: a substantially vertical left side outer wall 110, which is oriented in the front-to-back direction of the main housing 100; a substantially vertical left side inner wall 112, which is oriented in the front-to-back direction of the main housing 100; and an interconnecting wall 114, which extends between and interconnects the upper ends of the left side outer wall 110 and the upper ends of the inner wall 112. The main housing upper chassis 102 further includes: a substantially vertical right side outer wall 116, which is oriented in the front-to-back direction of the main housing 100; a substantially vertical right side inner wall 118, which is oriented in the front-to-back direction of the main housing 100; and an interconnecting wall 120, which extends between and interconnects the upper ends of the right side outer wall 116 and the upper ends of the inner wall 118. These interconnecting walls 114, 120 are inclined toward corresponding outer edges of the main housing 100, but may alternatively be substantially horizontal or inclined inwardly.

[0431] The main housing upper chassis 102 further includes a substantially vertical rear outer wall 122. The upper portion of the main housing upper chassis 102 includes a forwardly inclined surface 124. The surface 124 has a Fig.53 and 54 The recess 126 of the display and user interface module 14 is shown in more detail in FIG. The interconnecting wall 128 extends between the upper end of the rear outer wall 122 and the rear edge of the surface 124 and interconnects the upper end and the rear edge.

[0432] A substantially vertical wall portion 130 extends downwardly from the front end of the surface 124. A substantially horizontal wall portion 132 extends forwardly from the lower end of the wall portion 130 to form a ledge. The substantially vertical wall portion 134 extends downwardly from the front end of the wall portion 132 and terminates in a substantially horizontal floor portion 136 of the liquid chamber base 108. The left inner wall 112, the right inner wall 118, the wall portion 134, and the floor portion 136 together define the liquid chamber base 108. The floor portion 136 of the liquid chamber base 108 has a recess 138 for receiving a heater arrangement, such as a heating plate 140 or other suitable heating element, for heating the liquid in the liquid chamber 300 for use in the humidification process.

[0433] The bottom plate portion 136 of the liquid chamber base 108 terminates at a position short of the front edge of the left inner wall 112 and the front edge of the right inner wall 118 to form a downwardly extending lip 142. The lip 142 forms a recessed portion for receiving the handle portion 506 of the rod 500 for use in assisting in inserting the liquid chamber 300, as will be further described below. The liquid chamber base 108 further includes opposing guide features in the form of a left horizontally extending guide rail 144 and a right horizontally extending guide rail 146, which extend from the corresponding left inner wall 112 and right inner wall 118 toward the center of the base 108 to assist in guiding the liquid chamber 300 into the appropriate position in the base 108, as will be described in detail below.

[0434] The main housing lower chassis 202 is attachable to the upper chassis 102 by suitable fasteners or integrated attachment features (such as, for example, clamps). The main housing lower chassis 202 includes: a substantially vertical left side outer wall 210, which is oriented in the front-to-back direction of the main housing 100 and connected to the left side outer wall 110 of the upper chassis 102; and a substantially vertical right side outer wall 216, which is oriented in the front-to-back direction of the main housing 100 and connected to the right side outer wall 116 of the upper chassis 102. The main housing lower chassis 202 further includes a substantially vertical rear outer wall 222, which is connected to the rear outer wall 122 of the upper chassis 102.

[0435] The housing lower chassis 202 has a lip 242 that connects to the lip 142 of the housing upper chassis 102 and also forms a recessed portion for receiving the handle portion 506 of the lever 500. The lower lip 242 includes a forwardly directed protrusion 243 that acts as a retainer for the handle portion 506 of the lever 500.

[0436] The bottom side of the housing lower chassis 202 includes a bottom wall 230. Corresponding interconnecting walls 214, 220, 228 extend between and interconnect the substantially vertical walls 210, 216, 222 and the bottom wall 230. The bottom wall 230 includes a grid 232 having a plurality of apertures so as to enable the discharge of liquid in the event of a leak (e.g., due to an overflow) from the liquid chamber 300. The bottom wall 230 additionally includes an elongated front-to-back oriented slot 234. The slot 234 additionally enables the discharge of liquid in the event of a leak from the liquid chamber 300, so that the liquid does not enter the electronic housing. In the illustrated configuration, the heating plate 140 is not supported by an outer portion of the bottom wall 230, and therefore, the slot 234 can be wide and elongated relative to the aperture of the grid 232 to maximize the discharge of the liquid.

[0437] like Figures 17a to 22f As shown, the lower chassis 202 has a Figures 19 to 21The motor recess 250 of the removable motor and / or sensor module 400 is shown in FIG. 1 and will be described in further detail below. The recess opening 251 is provided in the bottom wall 230 adjacent to its rear edge to receive the Fig.19 and 21 as well as Figures 22b to 22f 2 and described in further detail below. A continuous, gas impermeable, uninterrupted peripheral wall 252 is integrally formed with the bottom wall 230 of the lower chassis 202 and extends upward from the periphery of the opening 251. The rear portion 254 of the peripheral wall 252 has a first height, and the front portion 256 of the peripheral wall 252 has a second height that is greater than the first height. The rear portion 254 of the peripheral wall 252 terminates in a substantially horizontal step 258, which in turn terminates in an upper auxiliary rear portion 260 of the peripheral wall 252. The front portion 256 and the upper auxiliary rear portion 260 of the peripheral wall 252 terminate at a ceiling 262. Except for the airflow channel, the walls and the ceiling 262 are all continuous, gas impermeable and uninterrupted. As shown in FIG. Figure 22f As can be more clearly seen, the tube 264 forming the airflow passage is integrally formed with the top plate 262, wherein the top plate surrounds the tube 264 and extends outwardly from the tube. Thus, except for the airflow passage, the entire motor recess 250 is gas impermeable and uninterrupted.

[0438] like Figure 22f As shown, the tube 264 forming the airflow channel extends upward through the outer downward extension tube or conduit 133 integrally formed with the lug 132 of the chassis 102 on the housing. The tube 264 extends at least as far as the lug 132, and can extend to a point where it is higher than the lug 132. A soft seal such as an O-ring seal (not shown) is positioned between the outside of the airflow channel tube 264 and the inside of the outer downward extension tube 133 to provide a seal between these components when assembled. In other configurations, the airflow channel tube 264 and the downward extension tube 133 can be configured to fit together via an interference or press-fit arrangement while still providing a seal between these components when assembled. It is contemplated that other configurations between the airflow channel tube 264 and the downward extension tube 133 include, but are not limited to, a latch / catch-style fitting and a bayonet fitting. The tube 264 terminates below the cover 150, which will be described in further detail below.

[0439] The configuration is such that if any gas were to leak from the motor or follow the airflow path of the motor via any seals, the gas would vent to the atmosphere rather than seep into the interior of the main housing that houses the control board and other electrical components as described below. The electrical components and electronics board in the housing are pneumatically isolated from the airflow path. The only possibility for gas to leak into the portion of the main housing 100 that houses the electronics board and other electrical components would be if there were a physical crack in the housing 100 or another physical component. The pressure in the motor of the motor and / or sensor module 400 upstream of the impeller can be lower than the pressure in the portion of the main housing 100 that houses the electrical / electronic components, which also assists in venting any gas leaks to the atmosphere.

[0440] The gas flow will experience a pressure drop as it moves through the system due to the development of gas turbulence and due to friction (eg, as the gas passes along walls defining the gas passages).

[0441] If a fault (e.g., a crack) exists in the housing defining the motor and / or sensor module 400, leakage at that fault (to the atmosphere) will significantly reduce the pressure of the downstream gas (e.g., in the portion of the main housing 100 housing the electrical / electronic components), reducing the likelihood or severity of leakage to the electrical / electronic components if another fault is encountered downstream.

[0442] In the motor and / or sensor module 400, the pressure is lower before / upstream of the motor impeller and higher after / downstream of the motor impeller. The electrical connections for the motor will be provided upstream of the motor impeller, in the low pressure area. If there is a fault in the housing in the portion close to the electrical connections, air will be drawn into the low pressure side.

[0443] In an alternative configuration, the motor recess including items 252, 254, 256, 258, 260, 264 may be formed separately from the lower chassis 202. The motor assembly including the recess may be insertable into the recess opening 251 and attachable to the lower chassis 202. When the motor assembly and recess are inserted into the lower chassis 202, the airflow channel tube 264 will extend through the downward extension tube 133 and be sealed by the soft seal.

[0444] In the illustrated form, the recess 250 comprises a recessed opening in the bottom wall of the housing. Alternatively, the recessed opening may be located in a different portion of the housing, such as the side, front or top of the housing.

[0445] The desired configuration provides a chamber shaped to receive a Fig.19 and 20A removable motor and / or sensor module 400 is described. The inner walls of the recess 250 (including but not limited to portions of the peripheral wall 252) may be provided with guides and / or mounting features to assist in positioning and / or attaching the module 400 within the recess 250. The removable motor and / or sensor module 400 is a flow generator and includes a motor 402 with an impeller that acts as a blower to deliver gas to the patient interface 17 via the liquid chamber 300. It should be understood that the shape of the chamber may vary depending on the shape of the motor / sensor module 400. However, the chamber will be provided with continuous, gas-impermeable and uninterrupted walls and ceiling to isolate the gas flow from the electrical and electronic components in the main housing 100.

[0446] refer to Fig.23 , the removable liquid chamber 300 includes an outer shell 302 defining a reservoir, a liquid chamber gas inlet port 306 in fluid communication with the reservoir, and a liquid chamber gas outlet port 308 in fluid communication with the reservoir. A baffle 304 is disposed within the reservoir to define a gas flow path through the liquid chamber 300. The lower edge of the liquid chamber 300 includes an outwardly oriented annular flange 310 that interacts with the rails 144, 146 in the chamber base 108 for positioning and retaining the liquid chamber 300 in the chamber base 108. The flange 310 extends outwardly from the base of the peripheral wall 312 of the liquid chamber 300. The bottom wall of the liquid chamber 300 is thermally conductive and is adapted to rest on the heating plate 140 to heat the liquid in the liquid chamber 300.

[0447] The device 10 includes a connecting manifold arrangement 320 for fluidly coupling the liquid chamber 300 to the device 10. The liquid chamber 300 can be fluidly coupled to the device 10 by performing a linear sliding movement in a rearward direction of the liquid chamber 300 into the chamber base 108, i.e., from a position at the front of the housing 100 towards the rear of the housing 100. The connecting manifold arrangement 320 includes a manifold gas outlet port 322, which is in fluid communication with a gas flow channel from the motor / impeller unit 402 via a fixed L-shaped elbow 324. As shown in FIG. Figure 22f As shown, the lower portion 325 of the elbow 324, which forms the airflow inlet port of the elbow, extends downward into the interior of the airflow channel tube 264, preferably to a position below the lower end of the airflow channel tube 264. A soft seal such as an O-ring seal is provided between the outer side of the lower portion 325 and the inner side of the airflow channel tube 264 to seal between these components.

[0448] The connection manifold arrangement 320 further includes a manifold gas inlet port 340 (humidified gas return) embodied in a removable elbow 342. The removable elbow 342 is L-shaped and further includes a patient outlet port 344 for coupling to the patient breathing conduit 16 for delivering gas to the patient interface 17. The manifold gas outlet port 322, the manifold gas inlet port 340, and the patient outlet port 344 each include a soft seal such as an O-ring seal (not shown) to provide a sealed gas passage between the device 10, the liquid chamber 300, and the patient breathing conduit 16.

[0449] Liquid chamber gas inlet port 306 is complementary to connection manifold gas outlet port 322, and liquid chamber gas outlet port 308 is complementary to connection manifold gas inlet port 340. The axes of these ports are preferably parallel to enable insertion of liquid chamber 300 into chamber base 108 by linear movement.

[0450] The device 10 has an air and oxygen (or alternative auxiliary gas) inlet in fluid communication with the motor 402 to enable the motor 402 to deliver air, oxygen, or a suitable mixture thereof to the liquid chamber 300 and thereby to the patient. In some configurations, the gas comprises a blend of oxygen and ambient air. Fig.10 As shown, the device 10 can have a mixed air / oxygen (or alternative auxiliary gas) inlet arrangement 350. This arrangement includes a mixed air / oxygen port 352 leading to the housing 100, a filter 354, and a cover 356 having a laterally extending oxygen tube 358 in fluid communication with the oxygen source. The port 352 is fluidly coupled to the motor 402. For example, the port 352 can be coupled to the motor and / or sensor module 400 via an airflow channel between the port 352 and an inlet orifice or port in the motor and / or sensor module 400 (which in turn leads to the motor). This arrangement can be of the type described in patent application US2014 / 0345615, and the contents of the specification are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0451] Alternatively, the device 10 may have Figures 11 to 14The arrangement shown enables the motor 402 to deliver air, oxygen (or alternative auxiliary gas) or its suitable mixture to the liquid chamber 300 and thus to the patient. This arrangement includes an air inlet 356' in the rear wall 222 of the lower chassis 202 of the housing 100. The air inlet 356' includes a rigid plate with an orifice and / or a narrow slot arranged with a suitable grille. The sound-absorbing foam can be arranged on the inner side of the plate adjacent to the plate. The air filter box 354' is positioned inside the main housing 100 adjacent to the air inlet 356', and includes an air outlet port 360 to deliver filtered air to the motor 402 via the air inlet port 404 in the motor and / or sensor module 400. The air filter box 354' can include a filter configured to remove particles (such as dust) and / or germs (such as viruses or bacteria) from the air flow. Soft seals such as O-ring seals will be arranged between the air outlet port 360 and the air inlet port 404 to seal between these components. The device 10 includes a separate oxygen inlet port 358' positioned at the rear end of the housing adjacent to one side of the housing 100, the oxygen port 358' being used to receive oxygen from an oxygen source such as a piped oxygen storage tank or source. The oxygen inlet port 358' is in fluid communication with a proportional oxygen valve 362. The oxygen valve 362 will suitably be a solenoid valve capable of controlling the amount of oxygen added to the gas flow delivered to the liquid chamber 300. It should be appreciated that in alternative configurations, the oxygen port 358' and the proportional oxygen valve 362 can be used with other auxiliary gases to control the addition of other auxiliary gases to the gas flow. Other auxiliary gases can include any one or more of a number of gases useful for gas therapy, including but not limited to helium-oxygen mixtures and nitric oxide.

[0452] like Figures 13 to 16 As shown in Figures 22b to 22f, the housing lower chassis 202 carries a suitable electronic circuit board 272, such as a printed circuit board. The electronic circuit board is positioned adjacent to the corresponding outer side walls 210, 216 of the housing lower chassis 202. The electronic circuit board 272 accommodates or communicates with suitable electrical or electronic components, such as but not limited to a microprocessor, a capacitor, a resistor, a diode, an operational amplifier, a comparator, and a switch. Sensors can be used. The components of the electronic circuit board 272 (such as but not limited to one or more microprocessors) serve as the controller 13 of the device.

[0453] One or both of the electronic circuit boards 272 are in electrical communication with the electrical components of the apparatus 10 (including the display unit and user interface 14, the motor 402, the oxygen valve 362, and the heater plate 140) so as to operate the motor 402 to provide a desired flow rate of gas, operate the humidifier 12 to humidify and heat the gas flow to an appropriate level, and supply an appropriate amount of oxygen (or, in an alternative configuration, an appropriate amount of an alternative auxiliary gas) to the gas flow.

[0454] The electronic circuit board 272 is in electrical communication with a connector arrangement 274 that projects from the rear wall 122 of the housing upper chassis 102. The connector arrangement 274 may be coupled to a nursing alarm, a pulse oximeter port, and / or other suitable accessories. The electronic circuit board 272 is also in electrical communication with an electrical connector 276 disposed in the rear wall 122 of the housing upper chassis 102 to provide mains power or battery power to components of the device 10. The electronic circuit board 272 is also in electrical communication with an electrical connector 278 for the removable elbow 342, the purpose of which will be described in more detail below.

[0455] As mentioned above, operational sensors (such as flow, temperature, humidity and / or pressure sensors) may be placed in various locations in the flow therapy device 10 and / or the patient's respiratory conduit 16 and / or cannula 17. The electronic circuit board 272 will be in electrical communication with these sensors. The outputs from the sensors may be received by the controller 13 to assist the controller 13 in operating the flow therapy device 10 in a manner that provides optimal therapy, including meeting respiratory needs.

[0456] As summarized above, the electronic circuit board 272 and other electrical and electronic components are pneumatically isolated from the airflow path, thereby reducing or avoiding any risk of fire or explosion that might otherwise occur without isolation.

[0457] Different aspects of the device will now be described in more detail.

[0458] 3. Motor and / or sensor modules

[0459] Figures 19 to 22f The removable motor and / or sensor module or subassembly 400 is shown in greater detail. As discussed above, the lower chassis 202 includes a recess 250 for receiving the motor and / or sensor module 400.

[0460] exist Figures 19 to 21 In the form shown, the motor and / or sensor module 400 includes three main components in a stacked arrangement: a base 403 of the subassembly 400 (on which the motor 402 is positioned), an outlet airflow path and sensing layer 420 positioned above the base 403, and a cover layer 440. The base 403, sensing layer 420, and cover layer 440 are assembled together to form a subassembly housing having a shape complementary to that of the recess 250 such that the subassembly 400 can be received in the recess 250. The base 403 is configured to close the recess opening 251 when the subassembly 400 is positioned in the recess 250. The subassembly 400 can be maintained in position in the recess in any suitable manner, such as, for example, using fasteners, clamps, or a quick release arrangement.

[0461] The sensing layer comprises a gas flow path having one or more sensors, the gas flow path being arranged to deliver gas to an outlet port of the housing.

[0462] The motor 402 has a body 408 defining an impeller chamber that houses an impeller. The motor 402 may be any suitable gas blower motor and may be, for example, a motor as described in published PCT specification WO 2013 / 009193 and in, for example Fig.65 The contents of this specification are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0463] A plurality of vibration isolation structures 412 are positioned in spaced apart positions around the periphery of the body 408. The vibration isolation structures 412 are configured to absorb vibrations caused by the movement of the impeller or other components of the motor 402 during operation. Absorbing vibrations can reduce the vibration of the motor 402 in the subassembly housing, which in turn can reduce the noise emitted by the motor 402. Absorbing vibrations can also alleviate material fatigue on different components of the subassembly 400. The vibration isolation structures 412 can be constructed of silicone materials. In other configurations, other elastic materials can be used, including but not limited to acrylic resins and polyurethane resins. In the illustrated form, the vibration isolation structures 412 include upright plastic columns having elastic cylindrical sleeves positioned above these columns. These vibration isolation structures are mounted on the body 408 and received in recesses located in the base and the sensor layer. Alternatively, this arrangement can be reversed. In another alternative, mounting columns can be provided on the base and the sensor layer, wherein these columns are mated against each other or connected to each other in the elastic sleeve. In other configurations, the vibration isolation structure 412 can be in a different form. For example, in an alternative configuration, the vibration isolation structure 412 can include one or more overmolded features located on the body 408. In still other alternative configurations, the vibration isolation structure 412 can include one or more springs, elastic structures (e.g., threaded joints, protrusions, blocks, sheets, etc.) or foam structures (e.g., encapsulation, "ring"-shaped fittings around the periphery of the body 408, etc.) attached to one or more sides of the body 408. In still other configurations, the inner wall of the base 403 and / or the sensing layer 420 can include a vibration isolation structure that vibrates the body 408.

[0464] The gas outlet 406 is in fluid communication with the outlet gas flow path stacked on top of the motor and the gas inlet fluid of the sensing layer 420. This layer 420 includes a body 422 having a plurality of mounting legs 425 that can be inserted into a plurality of mounting slots (not shown) of the base 403 so as to fix the body 422 to the base 403. In other configurations, other structures or arrangements can be used to fix the body 422 to the base 403, including but not limited to fasteners, clamps, or quick release arrangements. In one configuration, the body 422 defines an air flow path that connects the gas outlet 406 with the air flow path and the gas inlet of the sensing layer 420. Alternative configurations such as, but not limited to, coupling tubes can be used to connect the gas outlet 406 with the gas inlet.

[0465] The body 422 defines a lower portion 426 of the sensing and airflow path. The cover layer 440 has a body 442 that defines an upper portion 446 of the sensing and airflow path, wherein the shapes of the lower portion 426 and the upper portion 446 substantially correspond to each other.

[0466] like Fig. 20 and 21 As shown, the airflow path includes a linear elongated airflow portion 428, 448. The inlet is in fluid communication with a tangential inlet portion 430, 450 of the airflow path, which is positioned at or adjacent to the inlet end of the linear elongated portion 428, 448 of the airflow path. Recesses 433, 453 and 434, 454 may be provided at opposite ends of the linear elongated portion of the airflow path.

[0467] The airflow outlet ports 452 extend vertically through the body 442 of the cover layer 440 and are positioned at or adjacent to the opposite outlet ends of the linear elongated portions 428, 448 of the airflow path. Fig.22d and 22e As shown, the gas outlet port 452 is in fluid communication with the upper portion of the motor recess 250, which in turn is in fluid communication with the gas flow channel. Also, due to the configuration of the walls 252 and the top plate 262 of the recess 250, if gas leaks from the motor / sensor module 400, the gas will be exhausted to the atmosphere rather than entering the portion of the main housing 100 that houses the bulk of the electronics and control equipment. The recess 250 may include, for example, Fig.17b Spacers, such as tabs, are shown protruding downwardly from the top plate 262 to maintain a suitable spacing between the gas outlet port 452 and the recessed top plate 262 for gas flow.

[0468] from Fig. 20It can be seen that at least the portion of the airflow path through and away from the motor and / or sensing module 400 has a tortuous or serpentine configuration. For example, the direction of airflow traveling through the elongated portions 428, 448 is generally completely different from the direction of airflow traveling from the gas outlet port 452 through the elbow 324 to the inlet of the airflow channel.

[0469] like Fig.21 As shown, the cover layer 440 includes a sensing printed circuit board (PCB) 456. The cover layer 440 may also include one or more temperature sensors, such as thermistors, located in the elongated portions 428, 448 of the airflow path. One sensor will measure the gas temperature, while the other may act as a redundant temperature sensor. Alternatively, one of these thermistors may be used as a reference flow sensor (e.g., via use as a constant temperature thermistor), and the measured temperature may be used to determine the flow rate of the gas through the portions 428, 448 of the airflow path. The one or more temperature sensors may be positioned on the portion of the sensing PCB 456 that faces the airflow. The sensing PCB 456 may additionally include other sensors, including but not limited to pressure sensors, humidity sensors, and dew point sensors.

[0470] One or both of the electronic circuit boards 272 will be in electrical communication or coupling with the sensors in order to process information received from the sensors and operate the device 10 based on the information received from the sensors.

[0471] The sensing layer 420 and the cover layer 440 include complementary positioning features 438, 458 to correctly position the layers relative to each other. In the illustrated form, these positioning features include protrusions 438 and complementary recesses 458; however, other features may be provided. The base 403, the sensing layer 420, and the cover layer 440 (and optionally the motor 402) may be fastened together using fasteners (e.g., screws) extending through the apertures of the components of the subassembly 400. Alternatively, different fastening arrangements may be used. For example, the layers 403, 420, 440 may be adhered or fused together.

[0472] The cover layer 440 has vertical walls in a grid arrangement on its upper surface to minimize water infiltration in the event that water leaks from the fixed elbow 324. The grid arrangement can thus help prevent water that may have entered the subassembly 400 (due to, for example, accidental tilting of the filled liquid chamber 300 located in the chamber base 108) from entering the gas outlet port 452 and damaging the electrical components of the subassembly 400. In an alternative configuration, the upper surface of the cover layer 440 can define a basin having a bottom wall that is lower than the upper portion of the gas outlet port 452 to receive water.

[0473] In an alternative configuration, the motor / impeller unit may be located remote from the device 10. In this configuration, the module received in the recess 250 may include only the gas flow path and various sensors to deliver gas to the fixed elbow 324 and thus to the liquid chamber 300. In an alternative configuration, the module received in the recess 250 may include only the motor and the gas flow path, but no sensors.

[0474] In another alternative configuration, the motor and / or sensor module 400 may not be removable from the recess 250, but instead may be permanently mounted therein. In this configuration, the benefit of gas isolation from electrical / electronic components will still be provided.

[0475] Removable motor and / or sensor modules allow the modules to be cleaned and / or replaced if there is any malfunction. Removable modules allow for more compact flow paths and flow paths with reduced distances. This reduces flow resistance because the flow does not need to travel as far.

[0476] The flow path is compact and has reduced turns / sharp turns, which reduces flow separation and lowers flow resistance.

[0477] The arrangement of the motor and flow path provides another layer of isolation due to the wall arrangement.

[0478] Having a modular motor and / or sensor module enables different parts of the module to be disassembled if necessary for cleaning and / or maintenance.

[0479] There are advantageously no leak paths in the motor and / or sensor module.While the motor and / or sensor module may be a potential leak point, a leak in this area will result in oxygen being vented to the atmosphere or into the liquid chamber.

[0480] 4. Removable airflow pipe or elbow

[0481] As discussed above, the device 10 includes a removable gas flow tube in the form of a removable elbow 342 for receiving humidified gas from the liquid chamber 300 and directing the humidified gas through the patient breathing conduit 16 toward the patient interface 17. Reference will now be made to Figures 24 to 32 The elbow 342 and associated features are described. A benefit of having a removable tube is that the portion that comes in contact with potential condensate is removable for cleaning, disinfection and / or sterilization.

[0482] The removable elbow 342 is substantially L-shaped and has a manifold gas inlet port 340 (humidified gas return) and a patient outlet port 344 for coupling to the patient breathing conduit 16 for delivering gas to the patient interface 17. Fig.29As shown, the elbow 342 includes an air flow passage 364 extending from the inlet port 340 through the elbow to the outlet port 344 .

[0483] The upper chassis 102 includes an elbow holder 160 extending forwardly from the wall 130. The holder 160 includes a base wall 161 and two spaced apart upright side walls 162. Inwardly directed flanges 163 extend from the upper ends of the side walls 162 toward each other, wherein the spacing between the flanges 163 is large enough to allow the patient outlet port 344 to extend upwardly therebetween. Fig.28 , 30 As shown in Figures 32 and 33, the body of the elbow 342 includes elongated ribs 365 extending laterally outward from opposite sides thereof. The ribs 365 and the flanges 163 are advantageously both substantially horizontally oriented. The size and configuration of the ribs 365 and the flanges 163 are set so that the elbow 342 can be engaged with the elbow retainer 160 by moving the elbow 342 rearwardly in the horizontal direction. However, once the elbow 342 is engaged with the elbow retainer 160, it can only be removed by moving the elbow 342 forwardly in the horizontal direction. The elbow 342 cannot be lifted upward to disengage from the elbow retainer 160 because the ribs 365 and the flanges 163 will prevent such movement.

[0484] The upper chassis 102 of the housing includes Figure 25-26b The removable retaining cover 150 is shown. With the removable retaining cover 150 removed from the upper chassis 102, the elbow 342 can be removed from the elbow holder 160. With the removable retaining cover 150 attached to the upper chassis 102, the elbow 342 cannot be removed from the elbow holder 160.

[0485] The retaining cap 150 is generally L-shaped in cross-section and has an upper top plate portion 151 and a substantially vertical wall portion 152 extending downwardly from a front edge of the upper top plate portion. The top plate portion 151 includes a recess 153 for receiving the patient outlet port 344 of the removable elbow 342. The wall portion 152 includes two recesses 154, 155: one for receiving the manifold gas outlet port 322 and one for receiving the manifold gas inlet port 340 (humidified gas return).

[0486] The retaining cover 150 is configured so that it can only be removed from the upper chassis 102 of the housing 100 by moving it in a direction that is at least partially substantially transverse to the direction of removal and insertion of the elbow 342. To this end, the opposite side of the retaining cover 150 includes retaining features 156 that cooperate with complementary retaining features 170 extending inwardly from the inner walls 112, 118 of the upper chassis 102. In the illustrated form, the retaining features 156 in the cover 150 include elongated recesses extending substantially vertically, while the retaining features 170 of the upper chassis 102 include elongated slats extending substantially vertically. Alternatively, the configuration can be reversed so that the cover 150 includes slats and the upper chassis 102 includes recesses. Alternatively, one of these components can have a plurality of protrusions instead of slats. Preferably, the slats and recesses are tapered such that the upper ends of the recesses and slats are narrower than their lower ends to provide positive engagement of the cover 150 and the upper chassis 102 .

[0487] If the cover 150 is in position in the housing 100 and the elbow 342 is in position in the elbow retainer 160, attempts to pull the elbow 342 forward will fail because of the engagement between the retaining features 156, 170 between the cover 150 and the upper chassis 102. The cover 150 must be lifted upward relative to the housing 100 to free the retaining features 156, 170 from each other, at which point the cover 150 can be removed and the elbow 342 can be disengaged from the elbow retainer 160. After cleaning the removable elbow 342, the elbow 342 can be reengaged with the elbow retainer 160 and the cover 150 can be moved downward relative to the housing 100 to reengage with the housing 100 and retain the elbow 342 in position in the housing 100.

[0488] This configuration has the benefit of removal in that removing the elbow 342 from the housing 100 requires two discrete actions: moving the cover 150 in a first direction to release it from the housing 100, followed by moving the elbow 342 in a second direction transverse to the first direction so as to remove the elbow 342 from the elbow holder 160. As a result, the user is less likely to accidentally disconnect the elbow 342, but the arrangement enables easy removal and reconnection of the elbow 342 without the use of fasteners or large forces, which is particularly beneficial for users with limited mobility. This arrangement is also beneficial in the case where the direction in which the liquid chamber 300 is connected and disconnected from the main housing 100 (and the port) corresponds to the direction in which the elbow 342 is connected and disconnected from the housing 100. The described arrangement will prevent accidental removal of the removable elbow 342 when the liquid chamber 300 is removed from the chamber base 108.

[0489] It should be understood that although the direction of movement of the retaining cover 150 is shown as being orthogonal or perpendicular to the direction of movement of the elbow 342, the same result can be achieved with a smaller relative angle between the two movements, provided that for at least a portion of the movement, the movements are at least substantially transverse to each other. Additionally, it should be understood that the first direction of movement of the retaining cover 150 does not necessarily need to be vertical. For example, the retaining cover 150 can be removable from the main housing 100 and reattachable thereto by moving it in a lateral or sideways direction.

[0490] The electrical connector 366 protrudes from the rear portion of the elbow 342 in a direction opposite to the direction of the gas inlet port 340. The electrical connector 366 is suitably a printed circuit board that forms a male connector portion that protrudes outward from the elbow and is adapted to be received in the female electrical connector 278 located in the upper chassis 102. In order to avoid the difficulty of space constraints in the elbow 342 and for electrical safety to prevent overcurrent, the electrical connector 366 is advantageously a male connector portion. Alternatively, the electrical connector 366 may be or may include a female connector to receive a complementary male connector. The electrical connector 366 is configured to be electrically connected to the electrical connector 276 disposed in the rear wall 122 of the housing upper chassis 102 so as to receive mains power or battery power from the same source as the electrical connector 276. In an alternative configuration, the electrical connector 366 may be connected to a separate mains power source or battery power source.

[0491] The connector 366 is connected to one or more temperature sensors to determine the temperature of the gas flowing through the gas inlet port 340. In one configuration, the temperature sensor may include a thermistor 367 connected to the electrical connector 366. In an alternative configuration, at least a portion of the removable elbow 342 may be a material that is transparent to infrared wavelengths (e.g., such as transparent carbonate), and the temperature sensor 367 may include an infrared temperature sensor. This can reduce the number of wires and provide more accurate sensing. In some alternative configurations, if a portion of the removable elbow 342 has a material that is transparent to infrared wavelengths, the infrared temperature sensor 367 may be alternatively positioned elsewhere within the wall of the elbow 342, or may be positioned within a portion of the housing 100 that is close to the elbow 342. In an alternative configuration, instead of a thermistor, a digital temperature sensor may be used.

[0492] In one configuration, the electrical connector 366 is also coupled to a power connector (including a pin connector or an inductive power connector) 368 to couple to and power the heater wire 3c in the patient's breathing conduit. The connector 368 is in the form of a chimney portion. The connector 368 extends upward adjacent the airflow outlet 344 and is positioned above the top of the retaining cap 150 and is configured such that when the patient's breathing conduit 16 is pneumatically coupled to the airflow outlet, the heater wire 3c is electrically coupled to the connector 368 in the same single motion.

[0493] The elbow includes a recess 370 on a portion of the airflow outlet 344 for engaging a complementary protrusion on a slide-lock collar connected to the heated patient interface tube 16 .

[0494] The electrical connector 366 is electrically coupled to one or both of the electronic circuit boards 272 via the female electrical connector 278 and the cable 279, which is connected to one of the electronic circuit boards via the removable connector 280. This enables the electronic circuit board 272 to power the sensors in the removable elbow 342 and the electrical connector 366, and to receive and process data from these sensors.

[0495] A connector protection cover 278a ( Fig.32 ) and secure it to the female connector 278 to minimize the possibility of bending the connector's pins, prevent the user's fingers from contacting the live parts of the connector 278, and assist in maintaining the female connector in the proper position.

[0496] The removable elbow 342 includes a retaining feature 372 located on or adjacent to the gas inlet port 340 so as to force engagement with the liquid chamber gas outlet port 308. The gas outlet port may have features (not shown) adapted to receive or dock with the retaining feature 372, such as a lip and / or an O-ring seal. In the illustrated form, the retaining feature 372 includes a plurality of resilient fingers located on a recessed portion of the inlet port 340 adjacent to the inlet port 340 for receiving the O-ring seal. These resilient fingers are positioned at discrete locations around the periphery of the inlet port 340. In the illustrated configuration, there are four resilient fingers around the periphery of the inlet port 340 with uniform angular spacing between these fingers. Alternatively, there may be two or more resilient fingers positioned at any suitable angular spacing.

[0497] Each of these resilient fingers includes a relatively narrow portion 372a located toward the outer end of the gas inlet port 340, and an enlarged head portion 372b located farther from the outer end of the gas inlet port 340. Fig.28It can be seen that at least the enlarged head 372b projects laterally outwardly beyond the portion of the gas inlet port 340 adjacent to the fingers. The liquid chamber gas outlet port 308 has a cylindrical region having an inner diameter slightly larger than the outer diameter of the portion of the gas inlet port 340 adjacent to the fingers. When the gas inlet port 340 is inserted into the liquid chamber gas outlet port 308, the O-ring seal will initially seal against the inside of the gas outlet port 308. Upon further insertion, the fingers 372 will deform inwardly against the inside of the gas outlet port 308 until they pass over a lip in the interior, at which point the fingers 372 move outwardly to force engagement against the lip and minimize the possibility of accidental removal of the liquid chamber 300. When the liquid chamber 300 is to be removed from the device 10, it will be necessary to move the chamber 300 outwardly with a force sufficient to force the fingers 372 inwardly to clear the lip.

[0498] The finger 372 may provide considerable resistance to inward or outward movement of the liquid chamber 300. In some configurations, moving the chamber 300 into or out of engagement with the housing 100 may be entirely manual by a user directly pushing the liquid chamber 300. In an alternative configuration, the device 10 may be provided with a handle / lever arrangement as described below to assist in engaging and / or disengaging the liquid chamber 300 from the housing 100.

[0499] In the illustrated form, the manifold gas outlet port 322 is also shown as having a resilient finger 372. The engagement and operation of the resilient finger 372 with the liquid chamber gas inlet port 306 will be the same as described above. In some configurations, both the manifold gas outlet port 322 and the manifold gas inlet port 340 will have resilient fingers. In other configurations, only one of these ports may have a resilient finger, as this may be sufficient to minimize the possibility of accidental disengagement of the liquid chamber 300.

[0500] In an alternative configuration, the ports 322, 340 on the housing may be larger than the ports 306, 308 on the liquid chamber 300, such that the ports 306, 308 are received within the ports 322, 340. A soft seal such as an O-ring seal will also be provided to seal between the ports. In this configuration, if the resilient fingers are provided, they may be disposed on one or both of the ports 306, 308. Alternatively, the resilient fingers may be disposed on one or both of the larger ports and oriented inwardly to interact with the outer surface of the smaller port. The device 10 may have any combination of these alternatives.

[0501] In alternative configurations, instead of the resilient fingers, a snap-fit ​​feature, bayonet connection, or other feature may be provided.

[0502] Depending on the configuration of the device, the gas flow tube is not in the form of an elbow, but can have any other suitable configuration. For example, the gas flow tube can be a substantially linear or non-linear configuration, wherein the manifold gas inlet port 340 and the patient outlet port 344 are located at the ends of the tube. The inlet port and the outlet port will typically deviate from each other. The direction in which the gas flow tube is inserted into the retainer 160 and removed therefrom (e.g., forward and backward) will be at an angle to the direction of movement of the retaining cap 150 as described above. The retainer 160 can be modified as needed according to the configuration of the gas flow tube.

[0503] 5. Humidifier / Liquid Chamber Base

[0504] Now refer to Figures 33 to 52 The liquid chamber base 108 and handle / lever arrangement are described in more detail.

[0505] As discussed, the liquid chamber base 108 includes opposing left and right rails 144, 146 that extend from the corresponding left and right inner walls 112, 118 toward the center of the base 108. The rails 144, 146 assist in guiding the liquid chamber 300 into position in the base 108. The rails 144, 146 are parallel to the bottom plate 136 of the liquid chamber 300 and / or the upper surface of the heater plate 140 so as to enable the flange 310 of the liquid chamber 300 to slide therebetween. Figures 34 to 38 Insertion of the liquid chamber 300 into the base 108 is shown.

[0506] The main housing 100 includes a handle / lever 500 for assisting in inserting and / or retaining the liquid chamber 300 into and / or removing it from the chamber base 108. Different configurations may be constructed to assist in one, two, or all of inserting, retaining, and / or removing the liquid chamber 300 from the chamber base 108. Figures 44 to 52 An exemplary configuration is described.

[0507] The handle / lever 500 is pivotally attached to the main housing 100 and is accessible from, for example, Fig.33 The first, raised or open position shown may be moved to, for example Fig.38The handle / lever has a left side arm 502 pivotally attached to the left inner side wall 112 of the upper chassis 102, a right side arm 504 pivotally attached to the right inner side wall 118 of the upper chassis 102, and a crossbar handle portion 506 interconnecting the free ends of the left and right arms 502, 504 and forming an engagement area for grasping by the user's fingers. When the handle 500 is in the raised position, the crossbar 506 can serve as a carrying handle for the device 10. The liquid chamber 300 can be inserted into or removed from the chamber base 108 when the handle / lever 500 is raised. When the handle / lever 500 is in the lowered position, the handle / lever inhibits or prevents the liquid chamber 300 from being removed from the chamber base 108. Because the handle / lever surrounds a portion of the chamber base when the handle / lever is in the closed or fully lowered position, a large space is formed between the crossbar of the handle / lever and the housing of the device when the handle / lever is in the fully raised position, including a large opening located at the front of the chamber base and surrounding the liquid chamber, thereby allowing the liquid chamber to be easily inserted into and removed from the chamber base because the user's fingers can easily be inserted between the housing wall and the liquid chamber.

[0508] References below Figures 44 to 51 An exemplary pivot arrangement is depicted for handle / lever 500. The pivot arrangement enables pivotal movement of handle / lever 500 but prevents translational movement of the handle / lever.

[0509] The left and right arms 502, 504 of the handle / lever 500 include liquid chamber engagement features in the form of inwardly directed protrusions 510, 512. The spacing between the arms 502, 504 is sufficient to allow the widest portion of the body 302 of the liquid chamber 300 above the flange 310 to be received therebetween. However, the spacing between the protrusions 510, 512 is not sufficient to allow the widest portion of the body 302 of the liquid chamber 300 to be received therebetween.

[0510] In some configurations, the edges of protrusions 510, 512 may be beveled, curved, or angled so that they can more easily ride along and push against chamber 300.

[0511] In some configurations, the protrusions 510, 512 can be formed from (e.g., as an overmolded layer) or include a soft (or at least softer than the handle 500) elastic material or component to prevent damage to the chamber 300 that might occur if the handle 500 is closed on the chamber 300 too forcefully.

[0512] To insert the liquid chamber 300 into the chamber base 108, the handle / lever 500 is initially positioned as shown. Fig.33The liquid chamber 300 is partially inserted into the base 108, wherein the bottom surface of the liquid chamber rests on the heating plate 140 and its flange 310 is positioned under the guide rails 144, 146, as shown. Fig.34 The chamber 300 will be manually moved back in the housing an amount sufficient to at least partially engage the ports 322, 340, 306, 308. For example, the O-ring seals between the ports 322, 340, 306, 308 may be engaged, but the resilient fingers 372 may not be engaged.

[0513] The handle / lever 500 may then be pivoted downward toward its lowered position, such as Fig.35 In this intermediate position, the protrusions 510, 512 have engaged the widest portion of the housing 302 of the liquid chamber 300. Further downward movement of the handle / lever 500 Fig.36 , 37 38 progressively drives the liquid chamber 300 rearwardly to engage the ports 322 , 340 of the device 10 until the resilient fingers 372 , if present, engage the lips in the ports 306 , 308 in the liquid chamber 300 .

[0514] exist Fig.38 In the closed or fully lowered position of the handle / lever 500 shown, the crossbar 506 is positioned in the recesses 142, 242' located at the front of the upper and lower chassis portions and surrounds a portion of the chamber base. The forwardly directed protrusions 243 of the lower chassis 202 are positioned in the complementary recesses 507 in the crossbar and act as a positive engagement feature to positively engage the handle / lever 500 in the lowered position. With the handle / lever 500 in the lowered position, a portion of the crossbar 506 protrudes sufficiently above the floor of the chamber base 108 and above the flange 310 of the liquid chamber so that it prevents the liquid chamber 300 from being slid forward and removed from the liquid chamber base 108. The guide rails 144, 146 prevent the liquid chamber 300 from being vertically lifted and removed from the liquid chamber base 108.

[0515] The handle / bar crossbar 506 is resilient such that it can flex sufficiently to enable the protrusion 243 to be inserted into or removed from the recess or aperture 507 .

[0516] To remove the liquid chamber 300 from the chamber base 108, Figures 33 to 38The steps shown are reversed. When the handle / lever 500 is lifted a sufficient amount, the protrusions 510, 512 will clear the liquid chamber 300 so that the liquid chamber 300 can be slid forward until the flange 310 clears the guides 144, 146 and the ports 322, 340, 305, 308 are disconnected. The liquid chamber 300 can then be removed from the housing 100.

[0517] In an alternative configuration of handle / bar 500, rather than having protrusions 510, 512, a single protrusion or other liquid chamber engagement feature may be provided. In another alternative configuration, a portion of beam 506 may be configured to push against liquid chamber 300 and act as a liquid chamber engagement feature.

[0518] In alternative configurations, the crossbar 506 may not be large enough to serve as a carrying handle for the device when in the raised position.

[0519] The handle / bar 500 may be gas injection molded so that it has a smooth outer surface to aid in cleaning the handle / bar. The handle / bar may include an external seal to seal between the handle / bar and the housing. The seal between the handle and the housing may be an orifice (in the handle holder) in the handle holder that moves out and in when raised / lowered. Fig.117 A seal may be used to seal between the handle and the upper chassis.

[0520] Figures 39 to 43 An alternative guide configuration is shown to assist in inserting and / or retaining the liquid chamber 300 in the chamber base 108. In this configuration, the guides 144', 146' include detents 144a, 146a. The detents 144a, 146a include enlarged depressions that typically have a size and configuration that substantially corresponds to the maximum dimension of the body 302 of the liquid chamber 300. The detents 144a, 146a correspond in position to the fully inserted position of the liquid chamber 300 in the chamber base 108 and the fully engaged position of the ports 322, 340, 305, 308.

[0521] The portion 144b, 146b of each rail 144', 146' that is positioned between the detents 144a, 146a and the front of the chamber base 108 forms inwardly directed ridges with a spacing therebetween that is less than the largest dimension of the body 302 of the liquid chamber 300. At least the ridges 144b, 146b of the rails 144', 146' are sufficiently resilient that when the liquid chamber 300 is inserted between the rails 144', 146' (with the flange 310 of the liquid chamber located below the rails 144', 146'), the ridges 144b, 146b deform or flex outwardly (relative to the main housing 100) until the chamber 300 is fully engaged in the detents 144a, 146a between the rails 144', 146', after which the ridges 144b, 146b flex back inwardly. Alternatively or additionally, the liquid chamber 300 may be somewhat resilient and may deform to pass over the ridges 144b, 146b and "pop" back to its original shape once the liquid chamber is fully engaged in the detents 144a, 146a. Similarly, when the chamber 300 is removed from the detents 144a, 146a, the ridges 144b, 146b deform or flex outwardly and / or the liquid chamber 300 deforms inwardly. These guides, and specifically the detents 144a, 146a and the ridges 144b, 146b, provide tactile feedback to the user so that the user can easily determine when the liquid chamber 300 is fully engaged in the chamber base 108. Detents 144a, 146a and ridges 144b, 146b may be provided on the port in addition to or as an alternative to the resilient fingers.

[0522] The heating plate 140 is resiliently mounted; for example, on a biasing device such as a spring. The resilient mounting enables the heating plate to move downwardly once the chamber is inserted into the chamber base to accommodate the liquid chamber in the chamber base while maintaining good contact between the heating plate 140 and the base of the liquid chamber.

[0523] The handle / lever arrangement combines guide rails to position and hold the liquid chamber in the correct position. These guide rails also enable the liquid chamber to be turned or rotated so that its port is aligned with the port in the main housing.

[0524] The rearward portion of the rails 144', 146' may have ridges as shown to allow the liquid chamber 300 to be precisely positioned within the chamber base 108. However, rather than these rails defining the rearwardmost position of the liquid chamber 300 in the chamber base 108, the rearwardmost position of the liquid chamber 300 in the chamber base 108 may instead be defined by the engagement of the ports 322, 340, 305, 308 or by the engagement of a portion of the liquid chamber 300 with a portion of the housing 100 (e.g., the engagement of the rearward portion of the flange 310 with the wall 134 of the housing 100).

[0525] Rather than having depressions on the guide rails, the detents may be constructed in a different manner. For example, the guide rails may include projections, while the liquid chamber has depressions to receive the projections when the liquid chamber is fully engaged in the chamber base.

[0526] In an alternative configuration, the detents may be disposed adjacent to the rails, rather than being integrated into the rails. For example, the projections or depressions may be disposed in a portion of the chamber base 108 of the main housing adjacent to the rails (e.g., above or below the rails), with the liquid chamber configured to engage with the detents when inserted into the chamber base 108. The detents will be aligned with the direction in which the liquid chamber is inserted into or removed from the chamber base in order to achieve this engagement. For example, if the liquid chamber is arranged to be inserted vertically into the chamber base, the detents will be configured accordingly.

[0527] In alternative configurations, only a single pawl may be provided. For example, only one guide rail may have a depression and a ridge. Alternatively, only one guide rail may have a protrusion for being received in a depression on the liquid chamber. Alternatively, a single pawl may be provided adjacent to only one of the guide rails.

[0528] This configuration also differs from the above configuration in that instead of providing a protrusion 243 on the front of the lower chassis 202, a recess 243' is provided in the main housing. The crossbar 506' of the handle / lever 500' may be provided with a hook or protrusion (not shown) to engage in the recess 243'.

[0529] This configuration also differs in that the left and right arms 502', 504' of the handle / lever 500' include apertures 502a, 504a for directing a liquid tube from above into the liquid chamber 300 so that the liquid chamber 300 can be refilled and / or emptied as needed. The apertures 502a, 504a are provided in bosses in the push blocks 503, 505 described below, but may be provided elsewhere on the handle / lever 500'.

[0530] The handle / lever 500' also assists in disengaging the liquid chamber 300 from the chamber base 108. The handle / lever 500' includes a left push block 503 and a right push block 505 to assist in this disengagement. The left push block 503 is connected to the left arm 502' and extends inwardly therefrom, and the right push block 505 is connected to the right arm 504' and extends inwardly therefrom, such that the push blocks 503, 505 extend toward each other. Fig.45 As shown, push blocks 503, 505 are positioned on side arms 502', 504' such that push blocks 503, 505 are positioned at the rear of chamber base 108 adjacent vertical wall portion 134 when handle / lever 500' is in its lowered or closed position.

[0531] The push blocks 503, 505 each include a platform portion 503a, 505a that is substantially horizontal when the handle / lever 500' is in the lowered or closed position. Each push block 503, 505 also includes at least one engagement member 503b, 503c, 505b, 505c that is arranged to engage against the liquid chamber 300 and push the liquid chamber 300 out of engagement with the pawl 144a, 146a of the guide rail 144', 146' when the handle / lever 500' is lifted from the lowered or closed position. Fig.45 As shown, when the handle / lever 500' is in the lowered or closed position, the engagement members 503b, 503c, 505b, 505c extend vertically downward from the platform portions 503a, 505a.

[0532] In some configurations, the edges of the engagement members 503b, 503c, 505b, 505c may be beveled, curved, or angled so that they can more easily ride along and push against the liquid chamber.

[0533] In some configurations, the engaging members 503b, 503c, 505b, 505c can be formed from (e.g., as an overmolded layer) or include a soft (or at least softer than the handle 500') elastic material or component to prevent damage to the liquid chamber 300 that might occur if the handle is moved too forcefully.

[0534] Each inner engaging member 503b, 505b positioned toward the center of the liquid chamber 300 has a depth D1 ( D2 ) shorter than the front / rear depth D2 of the outer engaging members 503c, 505c positioned toward the side walls 112, 118 of the housing 100. Fig.49Each inner engaging member 503b, 505b positioned toward the center of the liquid chamber 300 has a height H1 that is smaller than a height H2 of the outer engaging members 503c, 503d positioned toward the side walls 112, 118 of the housing 100 ( Fig.49 ). Each engagement member 503b, 503c, 505b, 505c has an arcuate engagement surface 503b', 503c', 505b', 505c' for engagement against the liquid chamber 300 when the handle / lever 500' is lifted. The inner engagement surface 503b', 505b' has a steeper, more vertical angle and a larger radius of curvature than the corresponding outer engagement surface 503c', 505c'.

[0535] When the handle / lever 500' is lifted from the lowered / closed position, the outer engagement members 503c, 505c are arranged to engage against the flange 310 of the liquid chamber 300, and the inner engagement members 503b, 505b are arranged to engage against the housing 302 of the liquid chamber 300. This will push the liquid chamber 300 out of engagement with the guide recesses 144a, 146a and overcome the force of the guide ridges 144b, 146b to enable a user to easily remove the liquid chamber 300 from the chamber base 108. The shape, and in particular the curvature, of the engagement members 503b, 503c, 505b, 505c are such that they will not interfere with the insertion of the liquid chamber 300 into the chamber base 108 when the handle / lever 500' is lowered from its raised / open position to insert the liquid chamber 300 into the chamber base 108.

[0536] The front inner edge 503d, 505d of each push block platform is configured as an arcuate surface having a curvature that at least generally corresponds to the housing 302 of the liquid chamber 300. When the handle / lever 500' is in the lowered / closed position, the edges 503d, 505d act as rear stops for the liquid chamber 300.

[0537] In the illustrated form, each push block 503, 505 has two engagement members 503b, 503c, 505b, 505c; however, only a single engagement member may be provided on each push block. The handle / lever 500' may have only a single push block, but two spaced apart push blocks will disengage the liquid chamber 300 from the guide rails 144', 146' more evenly.

[0538] In this configuration, there are no inwardly directed protrusions to force the liquid chamber 300 to fully engage in the chamber base 108, but one or both of these protrusions or other liquid chamber engagement features may be provided. Alternatively, as discussed above with respect to the previous configuration, this handle / lever 500', rather than having inwardly directed protrusions, may have features on its crossbar 506' that drive the liquid chamber 300 to engage in the chamber base 108.

[0539] Similarly, this handle 500' may be provided with features to assist in disengaging the liquid chamber 300 from the detents 144a, 146a.

[0540] It should be appreciated that the detents 144a, 146a may alternatively be used with the configuration of the handle / lever 500 having the earlier configuration.

[0541] Figures 45-48 The pivot arrangement of the handle 500' is shown, which can also be used for the handle 500. The rear portion of each side arm 502', 504' includes an inwardly directed pivot projection 502b, 504b, which is received in a corresponding pivot cavity 502c, 504c in the lug 132. The arms 502', 504' are captured laterally between the lug 132 and the corresponding inner side wall 112, 118 so that the pivot cannot move laterally but the arms 502', 504' can pivot about a horizontal pivot axis. The lugs 114a, 120a extend inwardly from the interconnecting walls 114, 120 to prevent the pivots from being lifted vertically.

[0542] Fig.53 and 54 The display and user interface module 14 of the device 10 is shown. The module 14 includes a touch screen display 600 that provides information to a user of the device 10 regarding the status of the device 10, the status of the therapy being provided, the status of the patient, and / or the status of accessories or peripherals associated with the device 10. The display 600 may include one or more indicia 602a, 602b, 602c that each provide information regarding a corresponding aspect of the therapy; for example, gas temperature, oxygen concentration, gas flow rate, blood oxygen concentration (SpO 2 ) and heart rate. Other indicia may also be provided. These indicia may also act as touch screen "buttons" where pressing one of these indicia enables the user to change the setting of an aspect of the treatment, the device 10, and / or an accessory or peripheral associated with the device 10, which then causes the controller 13 to adjust the device 10 or the accessory or peripheral to the new setting.

[0543] The touch screen 600 may be in electrical communication with an interface printed circuit board 604 , which in turn is in electrical communication with one or both of the electronic circuit boards 272 .

[0544] The interface 14 may also have one or more physical buttons to enable the user to power on or off the device 10, or change settings. The upper wall 124 is advantageously inclined toward the front of the device 10 at an angle of, for example, 10 degrees relative to the horizontal. This makes it easy to use the interface from the front of the device 10.

[0545] A portion of the upper wall 124 defines an integrally formed cavity 606 that includes an outer cylindrical portion 608, an inner cylindrical portion 610, and an annular wall 612 that extends between and interconnects the bottom edges of the two cylindrical wall portions 608, 610. The axial direction of the cylindrical portions 608, 610 corresponds to the opening / closing direction of the injection molding tool to enable injection molding of the component.

[0546] A flexible button 614 is positioned adjacent the top of the outer cylindrical wall portion 608 and is substantially aligned with the upper wall 124. The bottom side of the button 614 includes an elongated push block 616 that extends through the inner cylindrical wall portion 610 and interacts with a micro switch 618 on the PCB 604. The outer cylindrical wall portion 608, the annular wall 612, and the inner cylindrical wall portion 610 form a continuous, uninterrupted, liquid-impermeable configuration that acts as a reservoir to capture any liquid that may enter the button arrangement around the flexible button 614 and prevent the liquid from reaching the underlying PCB 604.

[0547] The interface 14 may include one, two or more buttons having such a configuration. Alternatively, the interface 14 may be touch screen controlled only and have no buttons.

[0548] Figures 55 to 64 An alternative configuration flow therapy device 10' is shown, which shows an alternative configuration handle / bar 1500. The flow therapy device 10' will have the features and functionality described with respect to the different configurations above, but for simplicity, these features will not be repeated here. For the features shown, for most parts, similar numbers are indicated by adding a prime (') to indicate similar parts, and for the handle / bar, similar numbers are indicated by adding 1500 to indicate similar parts.

[0549] This configuration differs from the above configuration in that the handle / lever 1500 is a single-sided configuration. That is, only one side of the handle / lever 1500 is pivotally connected to the main housing of the flow therapy device 10', while the other side of the handle / lever 1500 is not pivotally connected to the main housing. In the illustrated form, the left side of the handle / lever 1500 is pivotally connected to the main housing. However, in an alternative configuration, only the right side may be pivotally connected to the main housing.

[0550] The handle / bar 1500 and main housing are modified from those described above to provide for this mounting.

[0551] The handle / lever has a left side arm 1502 that is pivotally attached to the left inner side wall 112' of the upper chassis 102'. The left side arm 1502 is configured to be Fig.55 The handle / lever further includes a right side member 1504, rather than a right side arm, that is shorter than the left side arm 1502 and is not pivotally attached to the right inner side wall 118' of the upper chassis 102'. The right side member 1504 is configured to be substantially flush with the interconnecting wall 114' when the handle 1502 is in the lowered or closed position. Fig.55 When the left arm 1502 and the right member 1504 are in the lowered or closed position, they are substantially flush with the interconnection wall 120'. The main housing is provided with a recess to enable the left arm 1502 and the right member 1504 to be substantially flush with these interconnection walls. Because the right member 1504 is shorter, the right interconnection wall 120' extends further toward the front of the device 10' than the left interconnection wall 114'.

[0552] The crossbar handle portion 1506 interconnects the front end of the left side arm 1502 and the front end of the right side member 1504 and forms an engagement area for grasping by the user's fingers. Fig.57 When in the raised position shown, the crossbar 1506 can act as a carrying handle for the device 10'. The liquid chamber 300' can be inserted into or removed from the chamber base 108' when the handle / bar 1500 is raised. When the handle / bar 1500 is in the lowered position, the handle / bar inhibits or prevents the liquid chamber 300' from being removed from the chamber base 108'.

[0553] Rather than having a right side member 1504, the handle / bar 1500 could terminate at the right side of the crossbar 1506. However, having the member 1504 oriented rearwardly is preferred because it reduces the likelihood of the device 10' falling when it is being carried.

[0554] exist Fig.55In the closed or fully lowered position of the handle / bar 1500 shown, the crossbar 1506 is positioned in the recess 242' located at the front of the main housing and surrounds a portion of the chamber base. Although the seam is not shown in the drawings, the main housing can be formed with an upper chassis portion 102' and a lower chassis portion 202', and the recess 242' will be formed in the appropriate chassis portion. The handle / bar 1500 and / or the recess 242' can have a positive engagement feature (such as one of those described above) to positively engage the handle / bar 1500 in the lowered or closed position. With the handle / bar 1500 in the lowered or closed position, a portion of the crossbar 1506 protrudes sufficiently above the floor of the chamber base 108' and above the flange 310' of the liquid chamber 300' so that it prevents the liquid chamber 300' from sliding forward and being removed from the liquid chamber base 108'. Although not shown in this configuration, the liquid chamber 108' will include guides to prevent the liquid chamber 300' from being vertically lifted and removed from the liquid chamber base 108' when the handle / lever 1500 is in the lowered or closed position. Because the handle / lever surrounds a portion of the chamber base when the handle / lever is in the closed or fully lowered position, a large space is formed between the crossbar of the handle / lever and the housing of the device when the handle / lever is in the fully raised position, including a large opening at the front of the chamber base and surrounding the liquid chamber, thereby allowing the liquid chamber to be easily inserted into and removed from the chamber base because the user's fingers can easily be inserted between the housing wall and the liquid chamber.

[0555] Fig.55 , 56 60-64 show details of the pivot arrangement of the handle / lever 1500. The rear portion of the left side arm 1502 is connected to a pivot arm 1502d. The pivot arm includes a front arcuate portion 1502e that extends downwardly and rearwardly from the left side arm 1502 when the handle is in the lowered or closed position. The rear portion of the front arcuate portion 1502e is connected to a linear portion 1502f that extends upwardly and forwardly from the rear portion when the handle is in the lowered or closed position. The upper end of the linear portion 1502f is coupled to an inwardly and / or outwardly directed pivot protrusion 1502b that is received in one or more pivot cavities 1502c that are located in a portion of the housing corresponding to the lug 132' and / or in the left inner side wall 112'. The arm 1502 is captured laterally between the lug 132' and the inner side wall 112' such that the pivot protrusion 1502b cannot move laterally but the arm 1502 can pivot about a horizontal pivot axis.

[0556] like Fig.56 , 61As shown in FIG. 62, the left inner side wall 112' is provided with a shaped recess 112a' to receive the pivot arm 1502d. The recess 112a' enables the pivot arm 1502d to extend through the left inner side wall 112'. Fig.60 The location shown to Fig.62 The range of motion of the positions shown is traveled without significantly encroaching upon space in the liquid chamber base 108'.

[0557] The upper front portion of the main housing includes a platform 150'. The platform 150' may also include an aperture and may be removable so as to act as a removable retaining cover for a removable elbow as described for the above configuration. The upper portion 151' of the platform forms a substantial continuation of the forwardly inclined surface 124' and extends forwardly and downwardly therefrom. The front edge 151a' of the upper portion 151' extends in a more horizontal or upward orientation than the remainder of the upper portion 151'.

[0558] This configuration is suitable for use with the liquid chamber 300' filled from a flexible liquid bag. Although hospitals and medical facilities will generally have a bag holder for supporting the liquid bag, in a home environment, people typically do not have a suitable bag holder. This configuration enables the liquid bag to rest on the top of the main housing, and specifically rests on the platform 150'. The front edge 151a' will reduce the possibility of the bag sliding forward from the housing. The single-sided handle / bar 1500 will enable the handle / bar 1500 to be lifted and lowered, while enabling the liquid bag and / or the liquid tube that delivers liquid from the liquid bag to the liquid chamber 300' to be fed through the space between the right side member 1504 of the handle / bar 1500 and the main housing when the handle / bar 1500 is in the lifting position. No long tube needs to be provided.

[0559] The handle / bar 1500 may include one or more features, such as, for example Fig.52 Orifices 502a, 504a are shown for directing a liquid tube from above into the liquid chamber. The tube will be coupled to the liquid chamber. The liquid chamber may include a float valve that controls the flow of liquid from the tube into the liquid chamber.

[0560] like Figures 57 to 59 As shown, the front edge 151a' preferably also forms a recess for receiving the upper rear edge of the liquid chamber 300' when the liquid chamber 300' is fully engaged in the liquid chamber base 108'.

[0561] The handle / lever 1500 will be provided with one or more features to assist in inserting, retaining and / or removing the liquid chamber 300' into the chamber base 108'. These features may be any one or more of those described with respect to the above configurations.

[0562] By providing a handle / lever that assists in inserting and / or retaining the liquid chamber in and / or removing it from the chamber base, the user can easily ensure that the liquid chamber is fully inserted in the chamber base, while still being able to easily remove the liquid chamber from the chamber base when desired. This is particularly advantageous for users with limited mobility. Similarly, by providing a pawl that assists in inserting and / or retaining the liquid chamber in the chamber base, the user can easily ensure that the liquid chamber is fully inserted into the chamber base. Full or correct insertion and / or retention may be required to ensure a satisfactory seal between the liquid chamber and other components that form part of the airflow path.

[0563] 6. Removable airflow tube or elbow and receiver - alternative configuration

[0564] Figures 66 to 71 72 to 75 respectively show two alternative airflow tubes or elbows 1342 and 2342 that can be used in the flow therapy device described herein. Unless otherwise described below, the airflow tubes or elbows 1342 and 2342 have the features and functionality described above with respect to the removable elbow 342, and similar reference numerals indicate similar parts by adding 1000 and 2000 to each reference numeral, respectively.

[0565] Figures 66 to 71 The removable elbow 1342 of the embodiment of the present invention is provided with an internal sump area 1371 in the gas flow path at the intersection of the two arms of the substantially L-shape (i.e., at the intersection of the gas flow path of the manifold gas inlet port 1340 (humidified gas return) and the gas flow path of the patient outlet port 1344). Fig.69 As shown, the concave pool area 1371 is provided by the expanded area in the gas flow channel. The concave pool area is positioned vertically below the adjacent base wall portion 1340a of the manifold gas inlet port so that liquid can accumulate in the concave pool area 1371 up to the depth of the adjacent base wall portion 1340a. The concave pool area 1371 allows liquid to accumulate in order to help the thermistor 1366d (described below) on the PCB connector 1366 determine the temperature representative of the gas flow channel 1364 / gas characteristics. This can assist in determining the wet bulb temperature of the gas passing through the elbow 1342.

[0566] The body of the removable elbow is provided with an arcuate transition region 1372 extending downwardly and at a relatively shallow angle in a direction away from the adjacent base wall portion 1340a. The arcuate transition region 1372 forms a front portion of the concave pool area 1371. The rearmost portion of the transition region 1372 terminates at the upper end of a wall portion 1373, which extends downwardly and rearwardly at a second relatively steep angle. The wall portion 1373 forms a front wall of a support portion 1374 of the body. The upper inner portion of the support portion 1374 forms a rear portion of the concave pool area 1371, which extends upwardly and rearwardly from the intersection of the concave pool area and the transition region 1372.

[0567] The lower angled outer edge 1375 of the support portion 1374 extends upward and rearward from the base of the front wall 1373. The support portion 1374 of the elbow serves two purposes. The first is to provide a mounting for the PCB electrical connector 1366 to the removable elbow 1342, as described below. The second is to provide a support surface to assist in aligning the PCB connector 1366 during insertion of the removable elbow into the proper position of the main housing of the device.

[0568] As from Fig.69It can be seen most clearly that the lower inclined outer edge 1375 is oriented to be at an angle α that is non-parallel and non-coaxial with respect to the longitudinal axis 1340A of the manifold gas inlet port 1340. The angle can be between about -15 degrees (downward) and about +30 degrees (upward) relative to the longitudinal axis 1340A. In one form, the angle is between about 0 degrees and about 30 degrees upward relative to the longitudinal axis 1340A. Advantageously, the upper limit is 30 degrees, because making the PCB electrical connector 1366 too inclined may cause the elbow to provide an undesirable shallow flow path through the elbow and hinder the provision of a useful siltation area. In one form, the angle is between about 0 degrees and about 15 degrees upward relative to the longitudinal axis 1340A. In one form, the angle is about 15 degrees upward relative to the longitudinal axis 1340A. Within these ranges, the angle can be non-parallel and non-coaxial relative to the longitudinal axis, and can be oriented to be at least + / -5 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis 1340A. In alternative forms, the angle can be parallel or coaxial with the longitudinal axis 1340A. The PCB electrical connector 1366 is mounted on the support portion 1374 so as to be colinear or parallel with the lower inclined outer edge 1375. Thus, the PCB connector advantageously also extends upwardly and rearwardly at an angle of between about -15 degrees and about +30 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis 1340A, between about 0 degrees and about +30 degrees in one form, between about 0 degrees and about +15 degrees in one form, and at about +15 degrees in one form. Again, within these ranges, the angle can be non-zero and, for example, can be at least + / - 5 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis. The base portion 1368b of the electrical connector portion can be aligned with the lower wall portion 1375. It can be seen in this variation that the intersection of the PCB electrical connector with the elbow body and Fig.29 The comparison is lower in the variant shown.

[0569] Fig.76 and 77 A main chassis / display and user interface carrier 2102 is shown on an alternative configuration of the main housing that can be used in the flow therapy device described above in conjunction with the removable elbow 1342 or 2342. Unless otherwise described below, features and functionality will be the same as described for the flow therapy device, and like reference numerals indicate like parts by adding 2000 to each reference numeral.

[0570] The upper chassis / carrier 2102 includes an elbow holder 2160 extending forwardly from the wall 2130. The holder 2160 includes a base wall 2161 and two spaced apart upright side walls 2162. Inwardly directed flanges 2163 extend toward each other from the upper ends of the side walls 2162, wherein the spacing between the flanges 2163 is large enough to allow the patient outlet port 1344 to extend upwardly therebetween. Upright ridges 2163a are formed by substantially vertical wall portions located at the inner edge of each flange 2163. The flanges 2163 and ridges 2163a are arcuate so as to form a mouth to receive the patient outlet port 1344. The upright ridges are arranged to be in close contact with the periphery of the patient outlet port 1344 when the removable elbow is received in the holder 2160. The rear portion 2164 of the retainer is of smaller dimensions than the patient outlet port 1344 and is provided to enable the power connector portion 1368a of the body to protrude upwardly therefrom.

[0571] The wall 2162, flange 2163 and ridge 2163a form a protective cover area that substantially matches the shape of the removable elbow 1342, 2342 when it is inserted into the elbow holder. The protective cover area assists in holding the elbow in place and helps reduce the infiltration of liquids into the elbow or PCB connector and encapsulates the PCB connector. The ridge 2163a further assists in directing liquid away from the connection between the PCB connector and the connector 278.

[0572] In order to insert the elbow into the holder 2160, the elbow is oriented so that the lower wall portion 1375 of the support portion rests on the base wall 2161 of the holder. The elbow is moved backward so that the patient outlet port 1344 is positioned between these flanges, and the connector 1366 is inserted so as to extend through the slot in the holder so that it can be inserted into the female connector 278 positioned at the rear of the holder 2160 in the upper chassis. The holder is oriented at an angle corresponding to the angle α of the PCB connector so that the PCB connector is parallel to the base wall 2161. The orientation of the manifold gas inlet port 1340 relative to the PCB connector allows for horizontal connection with the liquid chamber. Therefore, the PCB connector can be directly inserted into the holder 2160 without tilting or adjusting the elbow to achieve the insertion. In an alternative configuration, the PCB connector and the elbow holder 2160 can be oriented at different angles, such as those described above with respect to the elbow.

[0573] By arranging the PCB connector at a non-horizontal angle during use, any liquid that may have seeped into the main housing will be drained away from the connector. The removable retaining cap 150 will also be used to assist in maintaining the removable elbow in place in the housing, and the operation of the cap and the interaction of the elbow and liquid chamber will be as described above. The protective cover provides a profile ratio of Fig.30 A variation is shown of a low retainer 2160 in which the protective cover is sized to receive only the lower portion of the elbow 1342 that accommodates the PCB connector, rather than the full height of the manifold gas inlet port.

[0574] In this configuration, Fig.24 Compared to the device of Fig.24 The breathing conduit 16 will block the user display and user interface module less than in the device of FIG. Fig.28 The elbow is short.

[0575] Fig.70 and 71 Details of a PCB electrical connector 1366 of a removable elbow 1342 are shown. The connector 1366 includes a plastic plate 1366a having a plurality of conductive traces 1366b embedded therein. A plurality of conductive connector portions or pins 1366c are disposed at one end of the PCB, which is the end protruding from the elbow. The traces are configured to engage with complementary conductors in the female connector 278 to provide an electrical and / or communication connection of the PCB connector to other components of the device. The connector portions 1366c and traces 1366b may all be disposed on one side of the PCB connector, or some may be disposed on the opposite side of the PCB connector to reduce the risk of electrical shorts.

[0576] exist Fig.71 In the form shown, four of the conductive connector portions 1366c are in electrical communication with thermistors 1366d which are located at or adjacent to the opposite end of the PCB connector and embedded in the elbow body. The remaining two connector portions 1366c are in electrical communication with couplings 1366e which receive the bases of two substantially rigid upwardly projecting pin connectors 1368 which are used to couple to and power the heater wires 3c in the patient's breathing conduit. Fig.70 As shown, the pin connector 1368 can be a rigid member that extends from the top of the PCB at a non-perpendicular angle corresponding to the angle α ( Fig.69). These pin connectors can be at any suitable angle relative to the PCB connector, including perpendicular. These pin connectors advantageously extend substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the patient outlet port 1344.

[0577] Two thermistors 1366d are surface mounted at the front of the PCB connector and embedded in the body of the removable elbow. They are located approximately Fig.69 The temperature sensors are shown in position 1366d, very close to the sludge area 1371. By positioning them close to the sludge area, they can provide a more representative measurement of the gas.Instead of thermistors, digital temperature sensors can be used.

[0578] The PCB connector can be mounted to the elbow body in any suitable manner. In one example, when a surface mounted thermistor 1366d is used in the PCB connector, a single shot overmolding can be used to manufacture the elbow on the PCB connector to simplify manufacturing. The single shot overmolding can also wrap the elongated pin connector 1368 in the chimney portion 1368a. The hole 1366g in the PCB can allow the overmolding material to flow through the PCB, thereby reducing or preventing deflection of the PCB connector that might otherwise occur due to molding pressure. The lower portion 1368b of the elbow body located below the electrical connector portion below the PCB connector acts to cover the solder joints at the base of the pin connector.

[0579] The shape of the stagnation area and surrounding elbow body is configured to remove as much mass as possible from around the thermistors in order to improve their performance. The stagnation area can also assist gas flow through the removable elbow by preventing the gas from tightly "sticking" to the inner wall.

[0580] The removable elbow 1342 will be provided with suitable seals. For example, a T-seal may be provided on the manifold gas inlet port 1340 to seal between that port and the liquid chamber gas outlet port 308, and an O-ring seal may be provided on the patient outlet port 1344.

[0581] Similar to the elbow 1342 described above, the removable elbow 2342 is provided with a support portion 2374 extending generally rearwardly from the elbow body at the base of the substantially L-shaped two arms where they meet (i.e., substantially at the intersection of the manifold gas inlet port 1340 and the patient outlet port 1344). The support portion includes a body portion having a front wall 2373 and a downwardly angled outer edge 2375 extending rearwardly from the front wall. The body portion is shaped and configured to receive the PCB electrical connector 2366.

[0582] The lower angled outer edge 2375 extends upwardly and rearwardly from the base of the front wall 2373. The support portion 2374 of the elbow serves two purposes. The first is to provide a mounting body and support for the PCB electrical connector 2366 to the removable elbow 2342, as described below. The second is to provide a support surface to assist in aligning the PCB connector during insertion of the removable elbow into position in the main housing of the device.

[0583] The support portion 2374 provides additional plastic around the PCB connector to encapsulate the PCB connector. When the elbow 2342 is connected to the retainer 2160, the support portion 2374 interacts with the bottom side of the protective cover to reduce or prevent vertical movement of the elbow and rotation around the axis 1340A.

[0584] As from Fig.72 It can be seen most clearly that the lower inclined outer edge 2375 is oriented to be at an angle α that is non-parallel and non-coaxial with respect to the longitudinal axis 2340A of the manifold gas inlet port 2340. The angle can be between about -15 degrees (downward) and about +30 degrees (upward) relative to the longitudinal axis 1340A. In one form, the angle is between about 0 degrees and about 30 degrees upward relative to the longitudinal axis 2340A. Advantageously, the upper limit is 30 degrees, because making the PCB electrical connector 2366 too inclined may cause the elbow to provide an undesirable shallow flow path through the elbow and hinder the provision of a useful siltation area. In one form, the angle is between about 0 degrees and about 15 degrees upward relative to the longitudinal axis 2340A. In one form, the angle is about 15 degrees upward relative to the longitudinal axis 1340. Within these ranges, the angle can be non-parallel and non-coaxial relative to the longitudinal axis, and can be oriented to be at least + / -5 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis 2340A. In an alternative form, the angle may be parallel or coaxial with the longitudinal axis 2340A. The PCB electrical connector 2366 is mounted on the support portion 2374 so as to be parallel to the lower inclined outer edge 2375. Therefore, the PCB connector advantageously also extends upward and backward at an angle between about -15 degrees and about +30 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis 2340A, between about 0 degrees and about +30 degrees in one form, between about 0 degrees and about +15 degrees in one form, and extends at about +15 degrees in one form. Again, within these ranges, the angle may be non-zero, and for example may be at least + / -5 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis.

[0585] This allows the removable elbow 2342 to be inserted into the same manner as described above for the elbow 1342. Fig.76 and 77 Among the bent pipe retainers 2160 on the main chassis.

[0586] Figures 72 to 75The removable elbow 2342 is shown without an internal sump area, however, may be as described for Figures 66 to 71 In one configuration, the concave pool area can be provided inside the bend 2342 without changing the shape of the outside of the bend. By not including the concave pool area, the inner surface in the bend can be smoother (and configured as, for example, Fig.29 ). This also enables a more uniform wall thickness which strengthens the elbow.

[0587] Fig.75 Details of the PCB electrical connector 2366 of the removable elbow 2342 are shown. The connector 2366 includes a plastic plate 2366a having a plurality of embedded conductive traces 2366b. A plurality of conductive connector portions or pins 2366c are disposed at one end of the PCB, which is the end that protrudes from the elbow in use. These connector portions are configured to engage with complementary conductors in the female connector 278 to provide an electrical connection and / or communication connection from the PCB to other components of the device. In the illustrated form, some of the connector portions 2366c are in electrical communication with thermistors 2366d, which are positioned at or adjacent to the opposite end of the PCB connector and embedded in the elbow body. Each thermistor has two traces extending from the connector portion 2366c to the thermistor, wherein the two traces extending to the thermistor are positioned on opposite sides of the PCB to reduce the risk of electrical shorting between the traces. The two connector portions 2366c are in electrical communication with couplings 2366e which receive the bases of two upwardly projecting substantially rigid pin connectors 2368 which are used to couple to and power the heater wires 3c in the patient's breathing conduit. Again, these traces may be disposed on opposite sides of the PCB to reduce the risk of electrical shorts. The configuration and angles of these pin connectors will be as shown. Fig.70 The additional connector portion 2366c can be used to provide power to other components or provide communication connections.

[0588] Two of these traces are connected to a device 2366f configured to provide functionality, which may include, for example, identification, calibration functionality, and one or more of information capture (such as duration of use, power level, and disinfection). For example, device 2366f may be configured to store and / or communicate the use / lifetime information of the removable airflow tube / elbow. Exemplary information may include one or more of the following: tracking data, how long the removable airflow tube / elbow has been used, the time when the removable airflow tube / elbow is first used, determining the age of the removable airflow tube / elbow (e.g., based on the date of manufacture), the number of times the removable airflow tube / elbow has been used, determining and recording the connection / disconnection of the removable airflow tube / elbow, determining whether disinfection has occurred, the number of times the removable airflow tube / elbow has been disinfected, the use time since the last disinfection, the time when the removable airflow tube / elbow should be disinfected, the power level, the unique ID, the calibration, the time when the removable airflow tube / elbow should be replaced. The elbow can have a specified useful life stored in the device 2366f, such as up to 5 years from manufacture, or have a shorter period of time, such as a lifespan of 1 year. In some configurations, the removable airflow tube / elbow can have a specified maximum number of disinfection cycles stored in the device 2366f before the removable airflow tube / elbow should be replaced. For example, the maximum number of disinfection cycles can be a specified number of disinfection cycles per week for a specified number of weeks. For example, for a removable airflow tube / elbow with a maximum useful life of one year, the maximum number of disinfection cycles can be 52 cycles; once a week for one year. As another example, for a removable airflow tube / elbow with a maximum useful life of 5 years, the maximum number of disinfection cycles can be 260 cycles; once a week for five years.

[0589] Device 2366f can include, for example, one or more of a microprocessor, a memory, or a microprocessor with integrated memory. In one form, device 2366f is an EEPROM. In some configurations, device 2366f can be a flash memory or some other type of memory. Device 2366f can be configured to store functional data, or can be configured to communicate functional data to the controller 13 of the device via connector portion 2366c or via a suitable wireless transmission protocol (e.g., such as WI-FI, Bluetooth or GSM).

[0590] Electronic components with removable elbows can be sealed by potting to prevent the infiltration of liquids or gases.

[0591] The PCB electrical connector may be provided with one or more orifices 2366g to assist in mounting the PCB connector to the elbow body and / or to reduce infiltration of liquids into the PCB. In the illustrated form, the PCB is provided with two sets of orifices; a relatively large orifice near the narrow end of the PCB adjacent thermistor 2366d, and five smaller orifices positioned closer to the wider end of the PCB having connector 2366c. There are also two smaller orifices positioned between the larger orifice and the smaller orifices. However, this configuration may be varied.

[0592] Two thermistors 2366d are surface mounted at the front of the PCB connector and embedded in the body of the removable elbow. They are located approximately Fig.72 The location shown is 2366d, which is immediately adjacent to the gas flow channel 2364. The plastic covering these thermistors may be thinned to enhance temperature measurement, which may cause the inner curvature of the elbow to change slightly from the inner curvature shown.

[0593] The PCB connector 2366 can be mounted to the elbow body in any suitable manner. In one example, when a surface mounted thermistor 2366d is used in the PCB connector, a single shot overmolding can be used to manufacture the elbow on the PCB connector to simplify manufacturing. The single shot overmolding can also wrap the elongated pin connector 2368 in the chimney portion 2368a. The holes in the PCB can allow the overmolding material to flow through the PCB, thereby reducing or preventing deflection of the PCB that might otherwise occur due to molding pressure.

[0594] Instead of a thermistor, a digital temperature sensor can be used.

[0595] The support portion 2374 provides protection for the PCB. Together with an optional seal (if desired or required), the support portion can be used to reduce the infiltration of liquids into the PCB by plugging the connection between the PCB connector and the main control board. The support portion 2374 helps fill the narrow slot that receives the PCB when the PCB is connected to the elbow retainer. Therefore, if liquid were to drip / splash into the connection area, the support portion abuts the retainer plastic surrounding the narrow slot and reduces the possibility that liquid could reach the PCB connector inside. If the support portion is not present, there is a higher chance that liquid can enter through the gap between the PCB and the retainer slot when the PCB and retainer are connected.

[0596] This also helps keep water away from the electrical connectors and / or control board within the elbow retainer.

[0597] The seal can be positioned on additional plastic of the support portion 2374 around the portion of the PCB connector / support portion that presses against the elbow retainer slot when inserted, or around the electrical connector within the slot to help seal between the PCB connector and the connector of the retainer.

[0598] A combination of seals may be used.

[0599] Combined with the non-horizontal angle of the PCB connector in use, these features help drain liquid away from the PCB connector. The plastic surrounds the sides and upper portion of the PCB so that there is no connection between the PCB and the elbow where liquid can seep in. The support portion 2374 also provides protection for the thin wall section at the base of portion 2368a, and the plastic of the support portion encapsulates the PCB connector. It also provides a flat base to aid alignment during insertion of the PCB connector into the elbow holder.

[0600] The PCB connector may be plasma treated or coated with a conformal coating to facilitate bonding between the PCB and the overmolded elbow.

[0601] The removable elbow 2342 will be provided with suitable seals. For example, a T-seal may be provided on the manifold gas inlet port 2340 to seal between that port and the liquid chamber gas outlet port 308, and an O-ring seal or other seal may be provided on the patient outlet port 2344. T-seals may provide symmetrical seals that are easier to manufacture. T-seals may deflect over a wide range of heights (where the seal is contacted by the insertion / removal portion) in both the insertion and removal directions, making T-seals more versatile than O-ring seals.

[0602] Fig.137 An exemplary T-seal 2342T is shown in place on the manifold gas inlet port 2340 of the removable elbow 2342. The T-seal 2342T is received in an annular recess 2340R adjacent the outer end of the manifold gas inlet port 2340. Fig.138 As shown, the T-seal has a relatively wide annular base or body 2342T1 that is sized and configured to be received within the annular recess of the elbow 2342. The body 2342T1 defines a recess 2342T2 that fits over the annular body portion in the annular recess of the elbow 2342. The radial thickness of the body 2342T1 can be sized to be slightly thinner than the radial thickness of the recess.

[0603] The annular sealing protrusion 2342T3 protrudes radially outward from the body 2342T1 and exceeds the periphery of the manifold gas inlet port 2340 to seal against the inner surface of the liquid chamber gas outlet port 308. The annular sealing protrusion 2342T3 includes a relatively narrow resilient annular rib 2342T4 extending radially outward from the body and includes a wider small ball end or annular head 2342T5 having a bulbous cross-sectional shape to provide a seal against the inner surface of the liquid chamber gas outlet port 308.

[0604] The pom pom end 2342T5 provides a smooth / continuous sealing surface and advantageously reduces jamming or folding of the seal when it changes its deflected direction. The pom pom end also provides resistance to blow-over due to gas pressure in the circuit. If there is any flash on the pom pom end after manufacturing, the effect of this flash on the effective seal will be reduced because when the T-seal is deflected, the flash position will not be on the contact surface of the liquid chamber gas outlet port 308. The T-seal can be molded in the axial direction so that the flash will not affect the seal. The pom pom end 2342T5 can have a non-sticky surface finish to prevent the pom pom end from bonding to the surface against which it is sealed.

[0605] The following references Fig.139 Selected exemplary dimensions and parameters for a T-seal 2342T for use on a manifold gas inlet port 2340 of a removable elbow are outlined, which have been found to improve positioning and sealing between a liquid chamber and the removable elbow. The exemplary dimensions and parameters are selected for the specific embodiments described, but different values ​​or combinations of dimensions and parameters may be used for different embodiments, applications, and / or materials.

[0606] Base Width 2342T1': 2.3mm - 6mm, e.g. 6mm - It is generally preferred to maximize the base width for a particular application in order to minimize seal base lift. The base width may be optimized for seal stability. The base width will be selected to be thick enough to prevent the base from rocking or lifting in use, which could compromise the seal.

[0607] Base thickness 2342T1": 0.5mm-0.9mm, for example 0.9mm - is selected to balance between minimizing base lift and allowing room for the T-seal to deflect into during assembly. Excessive base thickness may result in a compression fit between the base 2342T1 and the pompom end 2342T5 during assembly. If the base is too thick, the deflection of the T may be restricted and result in a compression seal with the base rather than a deflection seal. This may cause the shape to remain deformed over time, which may result in increased forces to make the seal and may cause failure over time. A thick base will allow for greater T deflection because the base is less likely to rock or lift when the T is deflected.

[0608] Stretchability: e.g. 10% - This configuration is chosen to allow the T-seal 2342T to stretch over the recess 2342R of the manifold gas inlet port 2340. If the seal is overstretched, it will have increased stress, which may cause tearing; and the height of the seal may be reduced, which may cause sealing problems. If the seal is not stretched enough, it may not hold onto the part very well. The stretchability depends on the base thickness, and any suitable range may be chosen to optimize the seal.

[0609] T-section / annular rib thickness 2342T4': 0.35mm-0.7mm, for example 0.7mm - having a relatively thin thickness reduces the stiffness of the seal and helps prevent the seal base from lifting. The thicker the T, the thicker the base needs to be in order to prevent the base from lifting or shaking during use. Other materials can be used and different results will be achieved.

[0610] Pom-pom tip diameter 2342T5': 0.6mm-0.9mm, e.g. 0.9mm - This size was chosen as a combination of maximum resistance to "blow-open" while still providing acceptable user insertion force and avoiding a compression fit against the seal base 2342T1 during assembly. Blow-opening may occur if gas can force the pom-pom tip past the sealing position and out of contact with the sealing surface. This "pom-pom" geometry provides a smooth sealing surface and reduces sticking or folding of the seal as it changes the direction in which it is deflected.

[0611] Shore A Hardness: For example, 60 Shore A - In testing of O-rings, this hardness was found to provide the best trade-off between a softer material that is "sticky" and causes the seal to extrude from its recess during insertion, and a harder material that is too plastic and tends to tear during assembly. For a given material (silicone), 60 Shore A provides a smooth insertion feel. This material also has a higher elongation at break and tear resistance when compared to an equivalent 70 Shore A grade. The non-sticky surface finish will inhibit the seal from sticking to the liquid chamber port over time. The Shore hardness is specific to material selection, so it should be understood that different Shore hardnesses will be suitable for different materials, such as, for example, nitrile rubber, PTFE, EPDM rubber, fluorocarbon. Depending on the desired properties, different Shore hardnesses may also be suitable.

[0612] Stretchability, non-stickiness, and toughness are desirable material properties for T-seals.

[0613] By inserting the base 2342T1 of the T-shaped seal into the recess 2340R of the manifold gas outlet port 2340 of the removable elbow 2342, during use, gas flow is prevented from reaching under the seal and lifting the base 2342T1 of the seal away from the elbow. The ridges provided by the end walls at either end of the recess minimize the possibility of lifting or damage to the base of the seal when the liquid chamber is assembled with the removable elbow, thereby helping to correctly position the seal and prevent the seal from moving. The T-shape of the seal provides good resistance to leakage.

[0614] The T-seal 2342T may be removable from the elbow 2342 to enable replacement of the seal when required.

[0615] In an alternative configuration, the seal may be overmolded onto the removable elbow 2342 or other suitable component. By overmolding the seal onto the component, greater leeway is provided for varying the dimensions discussed above. For example, the base width 2342T1' may be greatly reduced. The T-seal may no longer rest within the recess 2340R in the removable elbow 2342, meaning that sealing may occur closer to the outer end of the manifold gas outlet port 2340 without requiring the manifold gas inlet port 2340 of the elbow to be pushed that far into the liquid chamber gas outlet port 308; and / or the base 2342T1 of the seal will not be lifted during insertion / removal or due to flow beneath the seal.

[0616] Fig.140 and 141 An alternative configuration T-seal 2342T' is shown in position on the gas inlet port 2340 of a modified removable elbow 2342'. Unless otherwise described below, features and functionality are as described above, and like reference numerals indicate like parts.

[0617] The difference of this configuration is that the T-shaped seal 2342T' has an asymmetric shape, with one side of the base 2342T1 being narrower than the other side of the base 2342T1. In the configuration shown, the width of the base 2342T1 on the side of the seal adjacent to the outer end of the inlet port 2340 is shorter than the width of the base 2342T1 on the side where the seal is positioned farther from the outer end of the inlet port. In other respects, these dimensions and parameters can be the same as described above. When the recess 2340R is set in the inlet port, the recess is a single-sided recess. The recess leads to the outer end of the inlet port 2340, and the inner edge of the recess 2340R forms a shoulder against the edge of the T-shaped seal 2342T'. Overmolding the T-seal onto the inlet port 2340 means that the base 2342T1 of the T-seal 2342T' does not lift away from the inlet port 2340 when the outlet port 2340 is inserted into or removed from the liquid chamber gas outlet port 308. Alternatively, the recess 2340R may not be provided in the inlet port, and the T-seal may be overmolded directly onto the exterior of the port.

[0618] Fig.142 and 143 An alternative configuration seal 2342T" is shown in place on the gas inlet port 2340 of a modified removable elbow 2342". Unless otherwise described below, features and functionality are as described above, and like reference numerals indicate like parts.

[0619] This seal 2342T" is an adapted T-seal similar to an L-seal and having an overall L-shaped configuration, wherein the annular base 2342T1 of the seal extends only from one side of a radially extending annular rib 2342T3. In the configuration shown, the base 2342T1 extends from the rib 2342T3 only in a direction away from the edge of the inlet port 2340. With this configuration, sealing can occur just at the outer edge of the inlet port 2340. In other respects, the dimensions and parameters can be the same as described above. When the recess 2340R is set in the inlet port, the recess is a single-sided recess. The recess leads to the edge of the inlet port 2340, and the inner edge of the recess 2340 forms a shoulder against the edge of the T-seal 2342T". Overmolding the seal 2342T" onto the inlet port 2340 means that the base 2342T1 of the seal 2342T" does not lift away from the inlet port 2340 when the outlet port 2340 is inserted into or removed from the liquid chamber gas outlet port 308. Alternatively, the recess 2340R may not be provided in the inlet port and the T-seal may be overmolded directly onto the exterior of the port.

[0620] The liquid chamber gas outlet port 308 and / or the gas inlet port 2340 may be provided with one or more alignment features in order to limit eccentricity between the two ports and thereby reduce the load on the seal. Fig.144 An example is shown where the alignment feature includes a mechanical counterweight located in the gas inlet port 2340. In the form shown, the mechanical counterweight is provided by an internal shoulder 2340RS of the seal recess 2340R that acts to locate and align the ports during insertion so that the seal only has to seal the ports, rather than aligning the ports or accommodating significant loads from the ports. The mechanical counterweight may be located either in front of or behind the sealing surface of the seal and may have any suitable form.

[0621] Utilizing a flexible T-seal or L-seal provides a good seal without requiring high forces to couple the liquid chamber to the removable elbow. An effective seal can be maintained over time, where other types of seals such as O-ring seals may creep or weaken the seal over time and require a compression fit.

[0622] Depending on the configuration of the device, the gas flow tube 1342, 2342, 2342', 2342" is not in the form of an elbow, but can have any other suitable configuration. For example, the gas flow tube can be a substantially linear or non-linear configuration, with the manifold gas inlet port and the patient outlet port located at the end of the tube. The inlet port and the outlet port will typically be offset from each other. The direction of insertion and removal of the gas flow tube into the retainer (e.g., forward and rearward) can be at a certain angle to the longitudinal axis 1340A, 2340A so that the elbow can be connected in the desired orientation to the liquid chamber. The retainer can be modified as needed depending on the configuration of the gas flow tube.

[0623] 7. Motor and / or Sensor Module - Alternative Configuration

[0624] Figures 78 to 100 An alternative configuration removable motor and / or sensor module or subassembly 1400 that can be used as a flow generator in the flow therapy device described herein is shown. Unless otherwise described below, this subassembly has the same Figures 16 to 22f The features and functionality of the sub-assemblies are described herein, and like reference numerals indicate like parts by incrementing each reference numeral by 1000.

[0625] As discussed above, the motor and / or sensor module or subassembly 1400 has been designed as a separate and sealed component. Any broken seal will cause gas (such as oxygen) to leak into the atmosphere rather than into the electronics of the device. The module 1400 is positioned slightly off-center in the device so that the module fits the filter and oxygen manifold; and the module is positioned close to the air / oxygen inlet arrangement 350 of the device. The module 1400 is constructed to be replaceable so that if a sensor fails, the entire module can be replaced. The module can only house the electronics related to sensing.

[0626] The motor and / or sensor module 1400 comprises three main components arranged in a stack: a base 1403 of the subassembly 1400 on which the motor 1402 with the impeller forming the blower is positioned, an outlet airflow path and sensing layer 1420 positioned above the base 1403, and a cover layer 1440. The cover layer 1440 and the outlet airflow path and sensing layer 1420 will typically be assembled together in use to form the sensing layer. The gas is substantially as described above with reference to Figures 16 to 22f The depicted movement is through the module 1400. The opening formed between the blower 1402 and the outlet gas flow path and sensing layer 1420 provides gas inlet into the module and enables the temperature of the inflowing gas to be measured.

[0627] The base 1403 includes an area 1403A for receiving the gas blower motor 1402. The area 1403A can be concave. The diameter of the concave area is selected to correspond to the shape of the bottom side of the body 1408 of the motor 1402. The area 1403A guides the airflow to the blower. In combination with the shape of the concave area, the ribs on the bottom side of the base 1403 give the area hardness and reduce noise. In an alternative configuration, the area 1403A can be a different shape, such as a non-concave shape.

[0628] like Fig.79 As shown, the base 1403 includes a plurality of flexible mounting members 1411. These flexible mounting members act as vibration isolation structures. The engaging plate 1411A is held by the upper housing of the motor / blower body 1408 and provides a slot into which these mounting members can slide. Any suitable number of flexible mounting members 1411 can be provided. The upper ends of these mounting members are received in complementary receiving portions (such as cups) in the outlet airflow path and the body 1422 of the sensing layer 1420.

[0629] like Figures 78-82, 84, 85 and 88, the base 1403 and the body 1422 of the outlet airflow path and the sensing layer 1420 are provided with complementary fixing features 1405, 1425 to fix the body 1422 to the base 1403. The base 1403 includes a plurality of vertical clamps 1405 positioned at spaced positions around the periphery of the base. The upper ends of these clamps include heads 1405A, which are tapered toward their upper ends. These heads are provided with depressions or cutouts to provide a substantially uniform cross-sectional area in the plastic, thereby enabling the plastic to cool rapidly.

[0630] The body 1422 includes a corresponding plurality of receiver members 1425 located at spaced locations around the perimeter of the body. The receiver members include apertures 1425A toward their lower ends that are sized and configured to receive the tapered heads 1405A of the clamps. The body 1422 can be secured to the base 1403 by moving the body and base toward each other so that the clamp heads 1405A are received in the apertures 1425A. The body can be separated from the base by moving the heads 1405A laterally so that they clear the apertures 1425A and then moving the body away from the base.

[0631] The clamps 1405 and receiver members 1425 may be positioned at or near the outer edges of the base 1403 and the outer edges of the body 1422. Suitably there will be at least two clamps and receiver members, but there may be three or more. In the illustrated form, the clamps 1405 are positioned on opposite sides of the base 1403 and the receiver members 1425 are positioned on opposite sides of the body 1422. The clamps may alternatively be part of the body 1422 and the receiver members part of the base 1403, or there may be a combination of clamps and receiver members mounted in the base 1403 and the body 1422.

[0632] The clamp 1405 and receiver member 1425 are constructed to be strong enough to enable the removable motor and / or sensor module or subassembly 1400 to be removed from the housing as a single piece, but do not need to bear the load when assembled. These clamps and receiver members can be used as the only method of securing the base and the body, or they can be used in combination with other fasteners (such as screws, etc.). Alternatively, different securing methods can be used.

[0633] The base 1403 and the body 1422 include a plurality of vertically extending wall members 1407, 1427. These wall members are complementary to each other, and when the base 1403 is fixed to the body 1422, the upper end of the lower wall member 1407 engages with the lower end of the upper wall member 1427 to prevent the body 1422 from shaking relative to the base 1403. There will be at least two wall members located at spaced positions around the body and the base, but there may be three or more wall members. These wall members may be arranged on either side of these clamps to help these clamps engage more firmly, thereby providing a more stable assembly that is less likely to shake. The length and / or shape of these wall members may vary. The orifice 1427A is positioned in one of these wall members or between two of these wall members to receive a temperature sensor for determining the temperature of the inflowing gas. Alternatively, the temperature sensor may be positioned elsewhere.

[0634] The base 1403 and / or body 1422 also include a plurality of locating pins 1412 to guide the base and body together during coupling. Suitably there will be at least two locating pins 1412 to provide rotational and vertical positioning, but there may be three or more pins 1412.

[0635] The perimeter 1403B of the base 1403 is provided with a recess that receives a soft seal (such as an O-ring seal) 1403C. The seal 1403C seals the module 1400 against the housing of the device and prevents entrainment of atmosphere that may bypass the filter. Specifically, the seal 1403C seals between the base 1403 and the perimeter wall of the recess 250 of the housing of the device. The seal 1403C also provides a force between the module 1400 and the housing of the device that must be overcome in order to remove the module 1400 from the housing.

[0636] like Fig.83 As shown, the bottom side of the base 1403 is scalloped and provided with a plurality of reinforcing ribs 1403D to provide structural strength and stability. These ribs are shown in a radial arrangement, but may be in any suitable configuration. One edge of the perimeter 1403B ( Fig.83 The lower edge (shown) is substantially linear to accommodate the shape of the oxygen inlet manifold in the device. Multiple sides of the peripheral edge may be tapered to aid tooling. Orifices 1403E are provided in the raised portion of the base 1403 to enable the use of fasteners (such as, for example, screws) to fasten the module 1400 to the housing of the device.

[0637] Once the gases enter the module 1400 via the inlet area, the gases move to the blower inlet, which is positioned below the blower 1402 in the concave portion 1403A of the base 1403. The gases entering the module can act to cool the motor. The gases then move through the blower 1402 and leave via the blower gas outlet port 1406. The gases leaving the blower gas outlet port 1406 enter the coupling tube or ferrule 1409, which couples the blower gas outlet port 1406 to the gas inlet port 1430 of the outlet gas flow path and the sensing layer 1420. The ferrule has a gas inlet port 1409A coupled to the blower outlet port 1406, an arcuate body portion 1409B that guides the gases upward away from the gas inlet port 1409A, and a gas outlet port 1409C that delivers the gases to the gas inlet port 1430 of the outlet gas flow path and the sensing layer 1420. The arcuate body portion of the cuff directs the gas through an approximately 90 degree angular change from the blower outlet port 1406 to the gas inlet port 1430, but across a short horizontal distance while minimizing pressure drop. In one configuration, the maximum pressure drop between the blower outlet port 1406 and the middle of the gas flow paths 1426, 1446 is 2.5 cm H 2 The maximum value of O.

[0638] It should be understood that the ferrule can be configured to direct the gas through different angles depending on the desired configuration. The inlet 1409A and outlet port 1409C of the ferrule 1409 will seal to the blower outlet port 1406 and the gas inlet port 1430 using a suitable sealing arrangement (e.g., a soft seal, such as an O-ring seal).

[0639] The cuff 1409 is configured to minimize the pressure drop of the gas passing through the cuff and isolate the blower vibration from the housing of the unit under strict space constraints. The cuff is made of a soft flexible material and has a localized area that acts as a diaphragm and acts as a vibration isolator. Some areas of the cuff can be thinned to provide isolation, thereby preventing any vibration from being transmitted to the structural parts or minimizing it. This can be achieved by molding thinner sections into the cuff. Additionally or alternatively, a telescopic tube can be provided in the cuff to assist in isolating the vibration from the housing of the unit while allowing the module 1400 to move more in the housing.

[0640] The base 1403 includes an upwardly protruding upright hoop support member 1407A located at or near the periphery of the base. The hoop support member 1407A has an inwardly concave shape when viewed from a top plan view and is configured to receive and support the periphery of the hoop 1409. As shown in FIG. Fig.82As shown, the gas outlet port 1409C end of the ferrule includes an enlarged diameter that rests on the upper end of the ferrule support member 1407A. The ferrule support member 1407A holds the flexible ferrule 1409 in a desired position and helps prevent the ferrule from being blown off from the inlet 1430 under the pressurized flow. The flexibility of the middle part of the ferrule can be greater than either end of the ferrule. The ferrule can be made of a low compression deformation material that reduces creep and allows the neck of the ferrule to stretch and stretch on the port and hold it firmly in place. The ferrule can be provided with one or more grab tabs to facilitate the assembly process. The grab tab can be arranged on any suitable area of ​​the ferrule. However, the grab tab will generally be positioned so as not to hinder / interfere with the airflow in the area where air and / or oxygen or other gases enter the motor and / or sensor module 1400. In one example, the grab tab can be positioned near the upper edge of the ferrule. In another example, the grab tab may be located elsewhere on the ferrule.

[0641] As an alternative to grab tabs, the edges of the ferrule may be beveled to assist in placing the ferrule in place.

[0642] The gas flow path and sensing layer 1420 includes a gas flow path with one or more sensors, the gas flow path being arranged to deliver gas to an outlet port of the housing.

[0643] The body 1422 of the airflow path and sensing layer 1420 defines a lower portion 1426 of the sensing and airflow path. The cover layer 1440 has a body 1442 that defines an upper portion 1446 of the sensing and airflow path, wherein the shapes of the lower portion 1426 and the upper portion 1446 substantially correspond to each other. Thus, although Fig.84 and 85 An upper portion 1446 of the sensing and airflow path is schematically shown, but will only exist if the cover layer 1440 is coupled to the body 1442, as shown in FIG. Figures 93 to 95 The overlay shown will be clearly seen.

[0644] like Fig.88 and 89 As shown, the sensing and airflow path includes arcuate elongated airflow portions 1428, 1448. Recesses 1433, 1453, 1434, 1454 may be provided adjacent opposite ends of the arcuate elongated portions of the sensing and airflow path.

[0645] In the illustrated form, the arcuate elongated gas flow portions 1428, 1448 are curved. In the illustrated form, the arcuate elongated gas flow portions have a length of about 85 mm. In the illustrated form, the ends of the gas flow path are more curved (i.e., have a smaller radius) than the middle portion, which is still arcuate but more linear. The gas flow path is curved to minimize the pressure drop of the gases as they travel along the gas flow path, but to guide the gases through the module, which requires the gases to make several sharp turns. The bend helps to smooth the sharp turns as the gases move through the module. The gases enter the arcuate gas flow path shortly after / as they leave the cuff 1409.

[0646] The middle portion 1428A, 1448A of the airflow path has a smaller diameter than the portions on either end of these middle portions. Therefore, the airflow path tapers slightly inwardly and then widens again to accelerate the flow passing through the flow path.

[0647] The airflow outlet port 1452 extends vertically through the body 1442 of the cover layer 1440 and is positioned at or adjacent to the end of the arcuate elongated airflow portion 1428 , 1448 opposite the inlet port 1430 .

[0648] The sensing and airflow path has a curved shape. The airflow enters at the inlet port 1430, flows along the curved sensing and airflow path, and leaves from the opposite side of the sensing and airflow path at the outlet port 1452. In some configurations, the inlet and the outlet can be positioned in vertical opposite directions, and the airflow can enter the path in the vertical upward direction, then bend to the horizontal direction, and then bend again to the vertical upward direction. In some configurations, the sensing and airflow path does not have a sharp turn. In some configurations, the sensing and airflow path has a curved end with a straighter middle section. In some configurations, the sensing and airflow path maintains a consistent cross-sectional shape over the entire length of the flow path. In some configurations, the sensing and airflow path tapers slightly inward from the first end of the sensing and airflow path, and widens again toward the second end of the sensing and airflow path, which can accelerate the flow. In some configurations, the surface of the sensing and airflow path is lined with a surface modifier / lubricant to reduce the friction in the sensing and airflow path. The curved flow path shape can reduce the pressure drop of the gas flow.Several different flow path configurations can be used.

[0649] The sensing and airflow paths 1426, 1446 have a total distance between opposite ends of the arcuate elongated airflow portions 1428, 1448 (between the closest portions of the recesses 1433, 1453, 1434, 1454) of between about 10 mm and about 1000 mm, between about 40 mm and about 200 mm, between about 50 mm and about 150 mm, between about 70 mm and about 120 mm, between about 80 mm and 100 mm, or between any of the above values, or about 95 mm.

[0650] The sensing and gas flow paths 1426, 1446 can have a diameter greater than about 2 mm and less than about 100 mm, between about 5 mm and about 50 mm, between about 10 and about 30 mm, between about 15 and about 25 mm, between any of the above values, or about 16 mm. Reducing the diameter of the flow path will increase the gas velocity to exceed the useful velocity at high flow rates and will cause a pressure drop. Increasing the diameter of the flow path will take up more space in the system. Therefore, an optimal balance can be obtained based on the ranges described above. Equivalent ranges can be used with devices having different flow patterns.

[0651] Slots 1422C are provided in body 1422 to pass wires from blower 1402 to sensing printed circuit board (PCB) 1456. At least a portion of the PCB overlaps the airflow path through the airflow path and sensing layer 1420. PCB 1456 is sandwiched between airflow path sensing layer 1420 and cover layer 1440. The temperature sensor will be positioned on the portion of the PCB that is within / overlapping the airflow path. Fig.100 As shown, PCB 1456 includes a recess 1457 having an arcuate portion 1457A that is shaped complementary to the curvature of the outer edges of the arcuate elongated airflow portions 1428, 1448. A protruding portion 1456A of the PCB carries the electronics of the PCB and is configured to be positioned outside of the flow path.

[0652] like Fig.88 and 89 As shown, the upper side of the body 1422 of the layer 1420 is provided with a groove 1423 for receiving a soft seal (such as an O-ring) 1423A to seal against the bottom side of the PCB 1456. The lower side of the body 1442 of the cover layer 1440 is provided with a groove 1443 for receiving a soft seal (such as an O-ring) 1443A to seal against the upper side of the PCB 1456. The grooves 1423, 1443 are advantageously provided with inwardly directed protrusions 1423B, 1443B (at Fig.99 ) to assist in maintaining the O-ring seals in their proper position in these grooves.

[0653] Soft seals 1423A, 1443A seal the high pressure areas of the module because the gas passing through the airflow path has been pressurized by the blower. Seals 1423A, 1443A prevent gas from escaping and moving toward the electronics of the device. These soft seals can alternatively be co-molded onto bodies 1422 and 1442, where the soft layer is co-molded onto these bodies.

[0654] like Fig.92 As shown, the lower surface of the body 1422 is provided with a plurality of reinforcing ribs 1422B in any suitable configuration to reduce warping.

[0655] As discussed above with respect to these configurations, the electronics of the device are positioned in a low pressure area of ​​the housing, thereby creating a tortuous path that reduces the likelihood of liquid or oxygen infiltration into the electronics. The portion 1456A of the PCB including the electronics is positioned "outside" the O-ring. The portion of the PCB 1456 including the sensor is located inside the flow path and is sealed off from the outside by the O-rings 1423A, 1443A pressing tightly against the PCB 1456. Thus, liquid or oxygen infiltration can be at least substantially prevented.

[0656] The cover layer 1440 may be coupled to the airflow path and sensing layer 1420 using fasteners, such as screws. These fasteners clamp the two parts together, providing a compressive force to seal the soft seals 1423A, 1443A against the PCB board 1456. Any suitable number of apertures 1422A, 1442A ( Fig.88 and 89 ) to receive the screw. A gasket may be used on the underside of the screw. To minimize the chance of leakage around the screw to a low pressure area (which could affect performance), a ridge may be added to the boss on which the head of the screw will sit once inserted. Alternatively, once the screw has been inserted, an adhesive or filler may be used to seal any possible openings. Alternatively, the cover layer 1440 may include a clamp or adhesive feature to couple with the airflow path and sensing layer 1420 when force is applied, thereby sealing between these layers.

[0657] like Fig.93 and 94 As shown, the upper surface of the cover layer 1440 is provided with a plurality of reinforcing ribs 1442B in any suitable configuration to reduce warping. The cover layer 1440 is provided with a protruding portion 1441A, which covers the protruding portion 1456A of the PCB to protect the electronic components of the PCB. The cover layer 1440 also has a protruding portion 1441B to cover and protect the electrical connection to the PCB.

[0658] The cover 1440 is provided with a shield 1441C located on the raised portion 1441A for receiving electrical components of the PCB 1456 such as an edge card / connector. The edge card / connector can be directly connected to the PCB 1456 or can be connected by wires. The edge card / connector can be used to electrically couple the blower motor to the electronics of the host device. The shield is Figures 93-95 1441C and is configured to at least partially surround and protect electrical components, the shield can be configured to support the electrical components but enable the electrical components to move in the shield in at least one dimension. In the illustrated form, the upper portion of the shield 1441C is open.

[0659] The shield 1441C includes an elongated body having a long dimension 1441D and a short dimension 1441E. Slots 1441F are provided near each end of the body to receive the ends of the edge card / PCB. The sides of the body are provided by two resilient supports 1441G that support the opposite sides of the edge card / connector.

[0660] In some configurations, shield 1441C is configured to enable edge card / connector movement in one dimension. For example, shield 1441C may be configured to enable edge card / connector movement laterally (in the short dimension 1441E of the shield) due to resilient supports 1441G; or may be configured to enable edge card / connector movement in the long dimension 1441D of the shield if the length of the edge card / connector is shorter than the distance between the ends of slots 1441F. The PCB / edge card may alternatively be the same length as the long distance 1441D between the slots, and therefore have less freedom of movement.

[0661] In some configurations, shield 1441C is configured to enable electrical components to move in two dimensions. For example, the shield can be configured to enable edge card / connector movement laterally (in the short dimension 1441E of the shield) due to resilient supports 1441G; and can be configured to enable edge card / connector movement in the long dimension 1441D of the shield if the length of the edge card / connector is shorter than the distance between the ends of the slots 1441F. The PCB / edge card can alternatively be the same length as the long distance 1441D between the slots, and therefore have less freedom of movement.

[0662] In the present application, the shield does not allow the edge card / connector to move vertically. In an alternative configuration, the shield 1441C is configured to enable the electrical components to move in three dimensions. For example, the shield can be configured to enable the edge card / connector to move laterally (in the short dimension 1441E of the shield) due to the elastic supports 1441G; can be configured to enable the edge card / connector to move in the long dimension 1441D of the shield if the length of the edge card / connector is shorter than the distance between the ends of the slots 1441F; and can be configured to enable the edge card / connector to move vertically. The PCB / edge card can alternatively be the same length as the long distance 1441D between the slots, and therefore have less freedom of movement.

[0663] The shield can be configured to allow limited movement of the edge card / connector in at least one dimension sufficient to accommodate tolerance misalignments in the components.

[0664] Once the gases have passed through the gas flow path and the sensing layer 1420, they exit the module 1400 via the gas flow outlet port 1452 coupled to the gas flow inlet elbow 324. A soft seal (such as an O-ring seal) 1452A may be provided for sealing the gas flow outlet port 1452 of the module 1400. Fig.96 As shown, the soft seal 1452A is sealed against the inner wall of the outer downward extension tube or conduit 133 of the shell, or another part of the shell. A soft seal (such as an O-ring seal) 324A can be provided for sealing between the elbow 324 and the inner wall of the downward extension tube 133 of the shell, or another part of the shell. These soft seals act to keep the module 1400 sealed and reduce the possibility of pressurized air flowing into the shell of the device. These soft seals can be arranged in annular grooves in the airflow outlet port 1452 and the airflow inlet elbow 324. Alternatively, one or both of these components can be provided with an outwardly oriented shoulder to provide a docking surface for these soft seals. For example, the seal 1452A can be docked on the top of the shoulder 1452B on the airflow outlet port 1452, and the soft seal 324A can be docked under the shoulder 324B on the airflow inlet elbow 324, such as Fig.96 shown.

[0665] In another configuration, a different type of seal may be provided to seal between the airflow outlet port 1452, the airflow inlet elbow 324, and / or the outer extension tube / housing 133. For example, instead of using an O-ring, a face seal, foam, or bellows seal may be used that will allow some relative movement of these components in a direction transverse to the direction of airflow through these components without damaging the seal. The seal that enables this movement will not over-constrain the module 1400 when it is in place in the lower chassis, but will achieve a seal between the upper surface of the airflow outlet port 1452 and the bottom surface of the inlet elbow 324 while enabling some lateral movement between the airflow outlet port 1452 and the inlet elbow 324 of the module 1400. If a bellows seal is used to seal between the airflow outlet port 1452 and the inlet elbow 324, the bellows seal will enable both some lateral movement and some axial movement between the airflow outlet port 1452 and the inlet elbow 324 of the module 1400.

[0666] The connection between the airflow outlet port 1452 and the airflow inlet elbow 324 is formed outside of the motor and / or sensor module 1400 so that any leakage that occurs due to this connection will be directed outside the housing of the device. Because the lower chassis extends upward around the inlet elbow 324 and is formed as a single, integral part including the walls and top plate that define the recess 250 and the airflow tube 264, in the event of a leak, the gas will follow the path of least resistance, with the gas collecting outside the leak area and exiting to the atmosphere via the outside of the inlet elbow 324. It is highly unlikely that the gas will flow into the housing and reach the electronics of the device via a tortuous path.

[0667] The PCB and other components of module 1400 may be provided with projections and recesses or depressions as shown in the various figures to aid in mounting these components or to provide projections and recesses for other adjacent components.

[0668] Once the gas has entered the module, the overall flow of gas through the module 1400 is determined by Fig.97 If the pressure drop is assumed to be of the form P = kQ 2 , where Q is the flow rate, unit is L min -1 , P is the pressure in Pa, and k is the pressure drop coefficient, then the pressure drop coefficient from the blower outlet port 1406 to the airflow outlet port 1452 of the module will be about 5 mPa (L min -1 ) -2 About 50mPa(L min -1 ) -2 In one configuration, at about 10 mPa (L min -1 ) -2About 20mPa(L min -1 ) -2 and in one configuration, about 15 mPa (L min -1 ) -2 Equivalently, at 100 L min -1 In one configuration, the pressure drop will be between about 50 Pa and about 500 Pa, in one configuration, between about 100 Pa and about 200 Pa, and in another configuration, about 150 Pa. The inlet to the module / blower may add a small pressure drop, but this small reduction may be negligible.

[0669] It should be understood that module 1400 may have any of the alternative configurations described above for module 400 .

[0670] 8. Alternative configurations

[0671] Figures 101 to 179 The features of the alternative configuration flow therapy device 3010' are shown. The flow therapy device 3010' can have any of the features and / or functionality described herein with respect to other configurations, but for simplicity, these features are not repeated here. In general, similar values ​​are used to indicate each reference value by adding 3000. Figures 2 to 54 Or similar portions of the configurations of 55 to 64. Similarly, the features and / or functionality of this alternative configuration device 3010' can be used with other devices described herein.

[0672] Figures 101 to 117 Detail of a handle arrangement of a flow therapy device 3010' is shown, wherein the handle arrangement has an alternative configuration handle / lever 4500. For features shown in these figures, like values ​​are indicated by adding 3000 to each reference value. Figures 55 to 64 Similar parts of .

[0673] Similar to Figures 55 to 64 In the illustrated form, the handle / lever 4500 is a single-sided configuration. That is, only one side of the handle / lever 4500 is movably connected to the main housing of the flow therapy device 3010', while the other side of the handle / lever 4500 is not pivotally connected to the main housing. In the illustrated form, the left side of the handle / lever 4500 is pivotally connected relative to the main housing. However, in an alternative configuration, only the right side may be pivotally connected to the main housing. This configuration is different from Figures 55 to 64 The configuration of is different in that the handle is pivotally and translationally connected to the main housing so that the handle moves on a path having a varying radius relative to the main housing. The handle / bar 4500 and main housing are modified from those described above to provide a pivotal and translational connection.

[0674] The handle / lever 4500 has a left side arm 4502 that is pivotally and translationally attached relative to the left inner side wall 3112' of the upper chassis 3102'. The left side arm 4502 is configured to be in a position to move when the handle 4500 is in a Fig.101 The handle / lever further includes a right side member 4504, which is shorter than the left side arm 4502 and is not pivotally attached to the right inner side wall 3118' of the upper chassis 3102'. The right side member 4504 is configured to be substantially flush with the interconnecting wall 3114' when the handle 4502 is in the lowered or closed position. Fig.101 The main housing is provided with a recess to enable the left side arm 4502 and the right side member 4504 to be substantially flush with these interconnecting walls. In the illustrated form, the left side member 4502 is longer than the right side member 4504, so that the spacer member 3120" is mounted to the upper chassis 3102' and sits substantially flush with the interconnecting wall 3120' and the right side member 4504 when the handle 4500 is in the lowered or closed position. The spacer member 3120" may carry a label or other indicia having information representing the device and / or its user.

[0675] The terminal portion of the handle has a crossbar handle portion 4506 that interconnects the front end of the left arm 4502 and the front end of the right member 4504 and forms an engagement area for gripping by the user's fingers. Fig.111 When in the lifted position shown, the crossbar 4506 can act as a carrying handle for the device 3010'. In the illustrated configuration, when the handle is in the fully lifted position, the crossbar 4506 is positioned to be generally above and generally aligned with the center of gravity of the device (including the liquid chamber). In one configuration, the crossbar 4506 can be positioned to be substantially directly above and substantially aligned with the center of gravity of the device. In, for example, Fig.55 The liquid chamber 300' shown in the figure can be inserted into or removed from the chamber base 3108' when the handle / lever 4500 is raised. When the handle / lever 4500 is in the lowered position, the handle / lever inhibits or prevents the liquid chamber 300' from being removed from the chamber base 3108'.

[0676] The handle / bar 4500 could terminate at the right side of the crossbar 4506, rather than having a right side member 4504. However, having the member 4504 oriented rearwardly is preferred because it reduces the likelihood of the device 3010' falling when it is being carried.

[0677] exist Fig.101In the closed or fully lowered position of the handle / rod 4500 shown, the crossbar 4506 is positioned in the recess 3242' located at the front of the main housing and surrounds a portion of the chamber base. The main housing can be formed to have an upper chassis portion 3102' and a lower chassis portion 3202', and the recess 3242' will be formed in the appropriate chassis portion. In the shown form, the two chassis portions have corresponding recesses. The handle / rod 4500 and / or the recess 3242' can have a forced engagement feature (such as one of those described above) to force the handle / rod 4500 to engage in a lowered or closed position. When the handle / rod 4500 is in a lowered or closed position, a portion of the crossbar 4506 protrudes sufficiently above the bottom plate of the chamber base 3108' and above the flange 310' of the liquid chamber 300' so that it prevents the liquid chamber 300' from sliding forward and being removed from the liquid chamber base 3108'. The liquid chamber base 3108' includes guides 3144, 3146 to prevent the liquid chamber 300' from being vertically lifted and removed from the liquid chamber base 3108' when the handle / lever 4500 is in the lowered or closed position.

[0678] The guide rails 3144, 3146 may have a curved shape and / or an upwardly inclined front portion 3144a ( Fig.102 ), so as to assist in making the liquid chamber 300' easy to enter the liquid chamber base 3108'. Alternatively or additionally, guide rails 3144, 3146 can be oriented to be not parallel to the base of the chamber base 3108', and therefore not parallel to the heating plate. Specifically, these guide rails can be oriented so that the major part of the length of these guide rails is oriented so that the front of the major part is positioned farther from the base of the liquid chamber 3108' compared with the rear of the major part. In other words, the front of the major part is higher than the rear of the major part, so that when the liquid chamber is inserted into the chamber base 3108', the base of the liquid chamber 300' is guided to be more closely engaged with the heating plate. This can replace or supplement the leading edge portion 3144a of the upward tilt of these guide rails. Because these guide rails guide the user when the liquid chamber 300' is inserted into the liquid chamber base 3108', these guide rails contribute to the usability of the device.

[0679] Figures 102 to 114Details of the pivot arrangement of the handle / lever 4500 are shown. The rear portion of the left side arm 4502 is connected to the pivot arm 4502d. The pivot arm 4502d includes a front arcuate portion 4502e that extends downward and rearward from the left side arm 4502 when the handle is in the lowered or closed position. The rear portion of the front arcuate portion 4502e is connected to the body portion 4502f, and the linear portion extends upward and forward from the rear portion when the handle is in the lowered or closed position. The body portion 4502f has a tapered configuration, wherein the base of the body portion is relatively small and the upper terminal portion of the body portion is relatively large. The body portion 4502f is relatively large so as to provide additional mass to help stabilize the handle in the raised position and reduce the side-to-side movement of the handle in this position.

[0680] A majority of the pivot arm 4502d is spaced apart from the body portion 4502f. The upper end of the body portion 4502f includes two pivot protrusions: a rear, outwardly directed, first pivot protrusion 4502b' and a front, inwardly directed, pivot protrusion 4502b".

[0681] The rear pivot protrusion 4502b' is received in the first pivot cavity 4502c'. The first pivot cavity 4502c' includes a slot or channel and is a substantially vertically extending pivot cavity. The first pivot cavity is generally straight so that the rear pivot protrusion 4502b' follows a substantially linear path LP when the handle is moved between the lowered position and the raised position. The rear pivot protrusion 4502b' is configured to be retained in the first pivot cavity 4502c', but is free to move substantially along the length of the pivot cavity.

[0682] The front pivot protrusion 4502b" is received in a second pivot cavity 4502c". The second pivot cavity includes a narrow slot or channel and is a relatively horizontal pivot cavity extending substantially in the front-to-back direction of the device. The second pivot cavity 4502c" is generally arcuate so that when the handle is moved between the lowered position and the raised position, the front pivot protrusion 4502b" follows a substantially arcuate path AP. In the illustrated form, the second pivot cavity 4502c" substantially follows the curvature of the left interconnecting wall 3114' and has a convex curvature relative to a position above the pivot cavity. The front pivot protrusion 4502b" is configured to be retained in the second pivot cavity 4502c", but to be free to move substantially along the length of the pivot cavity.

[0683] exist Fig.106 In the form shown, the upper end of the first pivot cavity 4502c' is positioned higher than in the side view where the two pivot cavities overlap (by Fig.106The position indicated by X is called the origin.

[0684] The rear pivot protrusion 4502b' and the front pivot protrusion 4502b" may include pins that are received in corresponding apertures in the body portion 4502f of the handle. Alternatively, the pivot protrusions may be integrally formed with the body portion 4502f.

[0685] The device includes Fig.102 , 103 and 104. The handle holder 4498 includes a substantially hollow body having an upper edge 4498a substantially corresponding in shape to the bottom side of the interconnecting wall 3114'. However, the handle holder 4498 protrudes forward further than the front edge of the interconnecting wall 3114' so that the aperture 4498b in the handle holder 4498 is positioned in front of the interconnecting wall 3114'. The shape of the aperture 4498 substantially corresponds to the shape of the front arcuate portion 4502e of the pivot arm. The aperture 4498b is sized so as to be only slightly larger than the size of the front arcuate portion 4502e of the pivot arm so that when the handle is lifted, there is no space for foreign objects to enter the aperture. The handle 4500 is positioned relative to the aperture 4498b. Fig.115 , 116 and 117.

[0686] The handle holder 4498 includes a base wall that leads to a liquid drain channel 4498c that extends along the side of the housing. The liquid drain channel 4498c can communicate with a cavity in the base of the main housing (e.g., Fig.115 and 116 4498c) so that any liquid that enters the handle mechanism can be discharged through the liquid discharge channel 4498c and exit through the base of the main housing. The handle holder provides a diffusion-based mechanism to remove liquid / gas. Additionally, the holes in the chassis portions for receiving the handle holder / handle are small and independent and spaced apart from the gas source to reduce the possibility of gas leaking into the housing of the device. Orifices do not have to be punched into the walls of the chassis portions for receiving the handle pivots.

[0687] The handle retainer 4498 seals between the upper chassis 3102' and the lower chassis 3202' in the area of ​​the handle retainer. In alternative configurations, the handle retainer 4498 can seal against the upper chassis 3102' and / or the handle 4500 to prevent liquid / gas from entering the housing or the handle retainer. For example, a face seal, a convoluted path seal, and / or a tongue and groove arrangement can be provided.

[0688] like Fig.104 As shown, the interior portion of the left side wall of the handle retainer 4498 includes a channel that forms the base 4498d' of the first pivot cavity 4502c'. Fig.103 As shown, the bottom side 4498d" of the outer wall portion of the upper chassis portion 3102' forms an upper edge of the first pivot cavity 4502c'.

[0689] like Fig.104 As shown, the inner portion of the right side wall of the handle holder includes a lug 4498e' forming the base of the second pivot cavity 4502c". Fig.103 As shown, the bottom side 4498e" of the inner wall portion of the upper chassis portion 3102' forms an upper edge of the second pivot cavity 4502c".

[0690] In order to mount the handle 4500 to the device, the handle 4500 is positioned in the handle retainer 4498 such that the second pivot protrusion 4502b" is positioned on the lug 4498e' and such that the first pivot protrusion 4502b' is positioned in the channel 4498d'. The handle and the handle retainer can then be moved to engage with the upper chassis portion 3102' such that the aperture 4498f' in the handle retainer is aligned with the aperture 4498f" in the upper chassis portion 3102', and fasteners (such as screws, etc.) are used to fasten the components together. Thus, when the handle retainer 4498 is secured to the upper chassis portion, the handle retainer becomes part of the main housing of the device.

[0691] The movement of the pivot protrusions 4502b', 4502b" and the handle 4500 can be divided into several stages. These stages are Figures 108 to 112 is shown in Fig.113 The diagram is shown in Figure 2. Fig.113 , the movement path of the terminal end 4506 of the handle relative to the device housing is shown by the curve TEP. The path has a changing movement radius of the terminal end of the handle from the fully lowered position to the fully raised position. In the form shown, the path is generally elliptical; that is, the path follows the shape of a portion of an ellipse. In the form shown, the path corresponds to slightly more than one quarter of the ellipse. Radial lines represent transition points from one stage to another, or indicate the beginning and end of a stage relative to the position of the end of the handle.

[0692] Fig.108The handle is shown as it has moved away from the fully lowered position. During this first movement phase P1, the second pivot protrusion 4502b" remains located at the front terminal end of the second pivot cavity 4502c". The first pivot protrusion 4502b' is caused to translate downward toward the origin X. This forces the end 4506 of the handle forward and upward away from the lowered / closed position. Because the first pivot protrusion 4502b' is initially positioned above the origin X, the initial movement of the terminal end of the handle 4500 is out of the housing and away from the housing, so that the handle does not collide with the housing at either end.

[0693] Fig.109 The handle is shown as having moved further away from the closed position. During this second movement stage P2, the first pivot protrusion 4502b' has further translated downward in the first pivot cavity 4502c' relative to the housing toward the lower terminal end of the first pivot cavity 4502c'. The second pivot protrusion 4502b" has begun to translate backward along the second pivot cavity 4502c". This results in a relatively steep upward and backward movement of the terminal end 4506 of the handle relative to the housing.

[0694] Fig.110 The handle is shown as having moved further away from the closed position. During this third movement stage P3, the first pivot protrusion 4502b' has reached the lower terminal end of the first pivot cavity 4502c'. The second pivot protrusion 4502b" has further translated backward in the second pivot cavity 4502c" to pass through the origin X. This results in a relatively flat upward and rearward movement of the terminal end 4506 of the handle relative to the housing.

[0695] like Fig.111 As shown, during the third movement stage P3, after passing the origin X, the second pivot protrusion 4502b" has reached the engagement feature 4502ef located at the rear end of the second pivot cavity 4502c" or adjacent to the rear end. The purpose of the engagement feature 4502ef is to keep the second pivot protrusion 4502b" in a position located at the rear end of the second pivot cavity 4502c" or adjacent to the rear end.

[0696] Fig.112The engagement feature 4502ef is shown in greater detail. In the illustrated form, the engagement feature includes a step 4502ef' located in the base of the second pivot cavity 4502c", followed by an area of ​​reduced depth 4502ef". When the handle 4500 reaches its fully raised position, the second pivot protrusion 4502b" moves over the step 4502ef' and engages with the area of ​​reduced depth 4502ef". Although the second pivot protrusion can move substantially freely over most of the length of the second pivot cavity 4502c", the second pivot protrusion 4502b" fits tightly within the area of ​​reduced depth 4502ef". This arrangement biases the handle into a fully raised position in which the user can carry the device without fear of the handle moving from the fully raised position. When the user has finished transporting the device, a force can be applied to the handle in a forward direction of the device to move the second pivot protrusion 4502b" out of the area of ​​reduced depth 4502ef".

[0697] An exemplary engagement feature 4502ef is described above, and other features may be used. For example, a spring-loaded retainer may be provided to engage the handle in the fully raised position. Additionally or alternatively, the handle may be provided with an actuator, such as a user-actuated button, to enable a user to force the first pivot protrusion away from the engagement feature and / or release the spring-loaded retainer. As another example, in addition to or in lieu of holding the handle in the fully raised position, an engagement feature (such as any of those described) may be used to hold the handle in the fully lowered position.

[0698] The handle 4500 is designed so that when the handle is in the fully lifted position and is used to carry the device 3010', the handle is generally positioned above the center of gravity of the device (including the liquid chamber containing the liquid). This reduces the swing of the device when the device is carried, thereby making the device easier to carry and reducing the possibility that the liquid will enter the device from the liquid chamber. The device can be configured so that the lifted handle is located at or generally located above the center of mass when the filled liquid chamber is inserted. The device is heaviest in the case of having a filled liquid chamber, and that is, the heaviest when the liquid is most likely to overflow back into the device. Alternatively, the device can be configured so that the lifted handle is located at or generally located above the center of mass when the device is partially filled with a liquid chamber (e.g., like a half-full liquid chamber) is inserted.

[0699] Depending on whether the fully raised handle is located directly above or close to the center of mass of the device, the base of the device can sit substantially flat when the device is carried, or alternatively, can be slightly tilted when the device is carried. The force provided by the user to grasp the device does not deviate significantly from the center of mass. This also means that the liquid in the liquid chamber 300' remains substantially horizontal, thereby reducing the risk of liquid flowing into the air flow path. The generally elliptical movement path of the handle 4500 enables the handle to move from the fully lowered position to a fully raised position that is generally located above the center of mass and generally aligned with the center of mass. Additionally, the movement path is such that at least in the half-raised position ( Fig.117 ) and fully raised position ( Fig.116 ), there is a substantially consistent spacing between the handle and the upper portion of the housing so as to minimize pinch points between the handle and the housing.

[0700] The handle is designed so that the pivot protrusions 4502b', 4502b" do not carry the device load when the handle is in the fully lowered position or in the fully raised position. When the handle is in the fully lowered position, the load is carried by the front wall 4498g of the handle holder, which engages against the lower edge of the front arcuate portion 4502e of the handle. When the handle is in the fully raised position, the load is carried by the upper edge 3114a' of the interconnecting wall 3114', which engages against the opposite edge of the front arcuate portion 4502e of the handle. Additionally or alternatively, when the handle is in the fully raised position, the load can be carried by the bottom side of the interconnecting wall 3114', which contacts the upper surface of the body portion 4502f of the handle, which is in contact with the upper surface of the handle body portion 4502f. Fig.116 14'. The handle arrangement is configured to carry the entire device load, including the liquid chamber 300' containing the liquid. The handle may include honeycomb or rib features or fiber reinforcements to strengthen and reinforce the handle. The handle may be made of a suitable hard and strong material. For example, the material may be a plastic material, such as polycarbonate.

[0701] When the handle is in the fully raised position, the second pivot protrusion 4502b" is located at the upper rear end of the second pivot cavity 4502c". The handle is held in this position due to the angle of the second pivot cavity 4502c". When the handle is in the fully raised position, the second pivot protrusion 4502b" will attempt to move upward, and the top wall of the second pivot cavity 4502c" will interact with the chassis of the device. In order to move the handle to the lowered position, the handle is moved horizontally and downward to release the handle from its fully raised position.

[0702] This required movement is emphasized by the shape and position of the area of ​​reduced depth 4502ef". Alternatively, the area of ​​reduced depth may not be provided. As another alternative, the required movement may be emphasized by further raising portion 4502ef" relative to an adjacent portion of the second pivot cavity 4502c". Such that the upper and lower walls of portion 4502ef" are positioned higher than the corresponding upper and lower walls of the adjacent portion of the second pivot cavity. Fig.114 This configuration is shown. Rather than providing a step, portion 4502ef' forms a ramp between rear portion 4502ef" and an adjacent portion of second pivot cavity 4502c". Although Fig.114 While not shown, the first pivot cavity 4502c' will be appreciated that it will be provided.

[0703] In the illustrated form, the first pivot protrusion 4502b' and the first pivot cavity 4502c' are positioned toward the outer portion of the device, and the second pivot protrusion 4502b" and the second pivot cavity 4502c" are positioned toward the center of the device. In an alternative configuration, these sides can be reversed. By having these pivot protrusions and pivots on opposite sides of the handle, the handle mechanism is less likely to be constrained during movement of the handle 4500, particularly at the intersection of the first pivot cavity 4502c' and the second pivot cavity 4502c" (adjacent step 4502ef'). Alternatively, the pivot protrusions 4502b', 4502b" and pivot cavities 4502c', 4502c" can be arranged on one side of the device (either toward the center or toward the outside), providing a more rounded edge at the intersection between the first pivot cavity and the second pivot cavity to reduce the possibility of binding.

[0704] Throughout the movement of the handle 4500 from the fully lowered position to the fully raised position, the surface of the handle rests against the surface of the handle holder 4498 to support the handle and prevent it from swinging. For example, throughout this movement, the left side of the body portion 4502f of the handle may rest against the left side wall of the handle holder. Alternatively, throughout this movement, the right side of the handle 4502e, 4502f may rest against the right side wall of the handle holder. These surfaces resting against each other are load-bearing and remain load-bearing throughout the movement of the handle.

[0705] The body portion 4502e and the arcuate portion 4502f are wide to cope with the bending moment of the single-sided handle. The length of the base of the handle (between and extending beyond the pivot protrusions 4502b', 4502b") can be made as long as possible to reduce the swing of the handle.

[0706] like Fig.101As shown, when the handle 4500 is in the fully lowered position, the handle is flush with the upper portion of the housing. That is, a substantially continuous surface is formed around the upper side, front and rear of the upper chassis 3102' (including the handle 4500) of the housing.

[0707] When an upward / downward force is applied to the handle 4500 so as to lower the handle from the fully raised position, the force is applied to the handle retainer 4498 via the handle rather than being applied directly to the upper chassis or lower chassis. The force is not carried by the pivot protrusions in the pivot cavities.

[0708] In some configurations, the main housing and / or handle 4500 may be provided with one or more magnets to hold the handle in a fully lowered and / or fully raised position. For example, the handle may include a magnet and the housing may include a magnet or a conductive component attracted by a magnet, or vice versa. Fig.103 A depression 4506' is shown in the bottom side of the handle 4500 located on or near the crossbar 4506, and Fig.104 Corresponding recesses 4506" are shown in the upper chassis portion 3102' of the housing. Each recess may include a suitable magnet or conductive component. The device may include one or more sensors (such as Hall Effect sensors) to determine whether the handle is in the lowered position or in the raised position.

[0709] The magnets can provide a tactile and / or audible indication that the handle is engaged in the fully raised and / or lowered position. When magnets are used, the liquid supply tube to the chamber is less likely to be compressed and stop the flow of liquid as might be the case with a mechanical latch (with which the liquid supply tube could potentially be caught between the handle and the main housing and the water flow cut off and / or the tube damaged). Magnets also have the benefit of reduced wear compared to mechanical engagement features.

[0710] The single side handle / bar 4500 enables the tube connecting the fluid bag to the fluid chamber 300' to be fed through the space between the right side member 4504 of the handle / bar 4500 and the main housing when the handle / bar 4500 is in the raised position.

[0711] Instead of the pivot cavities 4502c' 4502c" being disposed between the upper chassis portion of the shell and the handle retainer 4498, these pivot cavities may alternatively be disposed in the upper chassis portion 3102' or between the upper chassis portion 3102' and the lower chassis portion 3202' of the shell, and the handle retainer 4498 is not used.

[0712] The upper portion of the main housing includes a forwardly inclined surface 3124'. The surface 3124' is configured to receive the display and user interface module 14. Fig.101 , 102 As shown in Figures 104 and 104, the surface 3124' has elongated discharge channels 3124a', 3124a". These channels are arranged on the outside of the corresponding upright walls 3124b', 3124b". The walls 3124b', 3124b" are connected at their rear ends by a rear transverse upright wall arrangement 3124c, and at their front ends by a front transverse upright wall arrangement 3124d. The front transverse upright wall arrangement 3124d has an arc shape corresponding to the curvature of the wall 3134'. The upright walls 3124b', 3124b", 3124c, 3124d form a continuous wall and are configured so that any liquid that falls on the top of the device is discharged toward the base of the chamber base 3108' and leaves the base of the device through the orifice, rather than entering the area of ​​the device having an airflow path or electrical or electronic components. An adhesive may be provided between display 14 and surface 3124' to minimize liquid penetration.

[0713] This configuration is also suitable for use with a fluid chamber 300' that is filled from a flexible fluid bag, as described with respect to Figures 55 to 64 The configuration discussed.

[0714] The handle / bar 4500 may include one or more features, such as, for example Fig.52 Orifices 502a, 504a are shown for directing a liquid tube from above into the liquid chamber. The tube will be coupled to the liquid chamber. The liquid chamber may include a float valve that controls the flow of liquid from the tube into the liquid chamber.

[0715] The handle / lever 4500 will be provided with one or more features to assist in inserting, retaining and / or removing the liquid chamber 300' into the chamber base 3108'. These features may be any one or more of those described with respect to the above configurations.

[0716] By providing a handle / rod 4500 that assists in inserting and / or retaining the liquid chamber in and / or removing it from the chamber base, the user can easily ensure that the liquid chamber 300' is fully inserted in the chamber base 3108', while still being able to easily remove the liquid chamber from the chamber base when desired. This is particularly advantageous for users with limited mobility. The handle / rod also avoids the use of a separate finger sleeve. The chamber base may have a ratchet to assist in inserting and / or retaining the liquid chamber in the chamber base, such as those described above with respect to other configurations. These details will enable the user to easily ensure that the liquid chamber is fully inserted into the chamber base. It may be required to be fully or correctly inserted and / or retained in order to ensure a satisfactory seal between the liquid chamber and other components that form part of the airflow path. Because the handle / lever surrounds a portion of the chamber base when the handle / lever is in the closed or fully lowered position, a large space is formed between the crossbar of the handle / lever and the housing of the device when the handle / lever is in the fully raised position, including a large opening located at the front of the chamber base and surrounding the liquid chamber, thereby allowing the liquid chamber to be easily inserted into and removed from the chamber base because the user's fingers can easily be inserted between the housing wall and the liquid chamber.

[0717] The handle / lever 4500 may be configured so that when the handle / lever is in the raised position, the liquid chamber 300' may be inserted into the chamber base 3108'. When the handle / lever 4500 is in the lowered position, the handle / lever will act as a chamber protective cover to both prevent the liquid chamber 300' from being removed from the chamber base 3108' and prevent a user from touching the heating plate in the base of the liquid chamber.

[0718] Removal of the liquid chamber 300' from the chamber base 3108' is a two-step procedure. First, the user lifts the handle 4500 to the fully raised position. Second, the user removes the liquid chamber 300' from the chamber base 3108'. Each of these steps can be done with a single hand, and the force required to perform each of these steps is low. This makes the device particularly suitable for use at home by users who are physically unwell.

[0719] Figures 118 to 119 An alternative configuration removable retaining cap 4150a is shown for holding the removable airflow tube or elbow 1342 in place in the device. Figures 66 to 77 The removable airflow tube or elbow configuration may have any other suitable configuration, such as Figures 25 to 33 configuration.

[0720] Similar to Figures 25 to 26bIn the configuration of the embodiment, the elbow 1342 can be removed from the elbow holder 2160 when the removable retaining cover 4150a is removed from the upper chassis 3102'. When the removable retaining cover 4150a is connected to the upper chassis 3102, the elbow 1342 cannot be removed from the elbow holder 2160.

[0721] The retaining cover 4150a includes an upper top plate portion 4151 having a curved configuration and two substantially vertical side wall portions 4152. The top plate portion 4151 includes a recess 4153 for receiving the patient outlet port of the removable elbow 1342.

[0722] The retaining cover 4150a is configured so that it can only be removed from the upper chassis 3102' of the housing by moving it in a direction transverse to the removal and insertion direction of the elbow 1342. To this end, each side wall portion includes at least one guide recess 4156a located at its base. In the illustrated form, two spaced apart guide recesses 4156a are provided at the base of each side wall portion 4152. These guide recesses are shown as being square or rectangular, but can be any suitable shape. The forwardly inclined surface 3124' of the upper chassis 3102' includes complementary guide protrusions 3125a sized and configured to engage with these guide recesses 4156a.

[0723] Each side wall portion of the removable retaining cover 4150a also has a guide projection 4156b positioned between the guide recesses 4156a. The forwardly inclined surface 3124' of the upper chassis 3102' includes complementary guide recesses 3125b sized and configured to engage with the guide projections 4156b. The guide projections 4156b of the removable retaining cover have enlarged portions or barbs 4156b' that engage under the lips of the guide recesses 3125b when the removable retaining cover is engaged with the housing of the device to provide positive engagement of the components.

[0724] The configuration of the guide recesses and guide projections is such that the removable retaining cover 4150a can be engaged and disengaged from the upper chassis 3102' only by substantially vertical movement of the removable retaining cover relative to the main chassis, which is transverse to the direction of insertion and removal of the removable elbow 1342 into and from the elbow holder 2160. Alternatively, the retaining cover can be configured to engage and disengage from the upper chassis by movement in a lateral direction, which is transverse to the direction of insertion and removal of the removable elbow into and from the elbow holder.

[0725] The upper portion of the airflow inlet elbow 324 is provided with an engagement feature 324a that engages with a complementary engagement feature 4156c on the bottom side of the removable retaining cover 4150a to assist in positioning the removable retaining cover in the proper position on the upper chassis. In the illustrated form, the engagement feature 324a comprises a cross-shaped protrusion and the engagement feature 4156c comprises a complementary cross-shaped depression. However, any suitable shape may be used.

[0726] If the cover 4150a is retained in place in the upper chassis 3102' and the elbow 1342 is in place in the elbow retainer 2160, attempts to pull the elbow 1342 forward will fail because of the engagement between the cover 4150 and the upper chassis 3102'. The electrical connection between the removable elbow 1342 and the elbow retainer 2160 and the associated electrical receiver will also provide some structural coupling between the removable elbow and the housing.

[0727] A flexible tether (not shown) such as a silicone wire may couple the retaining cap 4150a to the housing to minimize the possibility of loss of the retaining cap.

[0728] In an alternative configuration, the removable retaining cover can be arranged to slide over the upper chassis portion in substantially the same plane as the removable airflow tube or elbow 1342 is inserted into and removed from the elbow retainer 2160. Fig.120 and 121 An alternative removable retaining cover 4150b is shown having this configuration. The device may have Figures 66 to 77 The removable elbow 1342 configuration may have any other suitable configuration, such as Figures 25 to 33 configuration.

[0729] The retaining cover 4150b includes an upper top plate portion 4151 having a curved configuration and two substantially vertical side wall portions 4152. The top plate portion 4151 includes a recess 4153 for receiving the patient outlet port of the removable elbow 1342.

[0730] In this configuration, the upper chassis 3102' includes elongated guide recesses 3125a' in the form of channels extending substantially in the front-to-rear direction of the device. The side wall portions 4152 of the retaining cover 4150b have complementary protrusions 4152a in the form of elongated tracks that protrude outwardly from the side wall portions 4152 and are sized and configured to slidably engage with the guide recesses 3125a'. In another configuration, the recesses may be provided in the side wall portions 4152 and the tracks may be provided in the upper chassis 3102'. Alternatively, the tracks and recesses may be provided elsewhere. For example, the tracks may be provided on the base of the forwardly inclined surface 3124' and the recesses may be provided on the side wall portions 4152, or vice versa. Handle / lever 4500( Fig.120 and 121 4150b) is slightly tapered so that the retaining cover 4150b can be inserted / removed when the handle / rod 4500 is in the raised position.

[0731] To insert the removable elbow 1342 and retaining cover 4150b into the housing, the elbow can be inserted through the aperture 4153 in the retaining cover 4150b. The elbow 1342 and cover 4150b can then be slid into the main housing as a unit so that the elbow 1342 is received in the elbow retainer 2160 and the retaining cover 4150b engages the guide rails 3125a'. This allows for easier assembly of the elbow and retaining cover into the housing with a single degree of freedom of movement.

[0732] As discussed above, the PCB connector 1366 of the elbow 1342 can be oriented at a suitable non-parallel and non-coaxial angle relative to the longitudinal axis 1340A of the manifold gas inlet port 1340 of the removable elbow. The guide rails 3125a' and the PCB connector 1366 will lie on substantially the same plane so that the retaining cap 4150b and the elbow 1342 can be inserted together in one movement. The guide rails 3125a' and the PCB connector can function to guide the retaining cap and the elbow into successful engagement.

[0733] The difference between the insertion angles of elbow 1342 and retaining cover 4150b into the housing and the insertion angle of chamber 300' into chamber base 3108' means that removal of chamber 300' from chamber base 3108' will not result in removal of elbow 1342 or retaining cover 4150b from the upper chassis.

[0734] The retaining cap 4150b and / or the removable elbow 1342 can have one or more features to assist in retaining the removable elbow 1342 in engagement with the retaining cap. The features can assist in aligning the retaining cap 4150b and the elbow 1342 with each other so they are properly aligned for insertion into the device. The features can include, for example, protrusions and / or depressions, or an interference fit between the retaining cap 4150b and the elbow 1342.

[0735] The handle / bar 4500 may include features that prevent the removable retaining covers 4150a, 4150b from being removed from the device housing when the handle is in the fully lowered position, but enable the retaining covers 4150a, 4150b to be removed from the device housing when the handle is in the fully raised position. Alternatively, in some configurations, the retaining covers 4150a, 4150b may be inserted into or removed from the device housing when the handle 4500 is in any position.

[0736] Removable retaining covers 4150a, 4150b are shown as being substantially open at their front ends. The rear end of either retaining cover 4150a, 4150b can be arranged to provide a rearwardly directed exposed area spaced apart above the device display. The open front end and / or exposed area can be used as an additional handle to assist in carrying the device 3010'.

[0737] Figures 122 to 125 An electrical connector 3276 is shown in the bottom rear corner of the lower chassis 3202' of the main housing of the device 3010'. The electrical connector 3276 is arranged to provide mains power or battery power to those components of the device 3010', such as the electronic circuit board 272 and other electrical components.

[0738] The electrical connector 3276 includes a receiving socket 3276a arranged to receive a plug 3277 of a power cord. The receiving socket 3276a and other components of the electrical connector are oriented in the main housing so that the power cord can be inserted into the electrical connector 3276 in a plane coplanar or parallel to the base of the device (i.e., with the horizontal movement).

[0739] The electrical connector 3276 includes a retainer 3276b to maintain the power cord 3277 engaged with the socket 3276a. Fig.125As shown, the retainer 3276b includes a generally U-shaped body to receive the bottom side of the plug 3277 of the power cord. The inlet end 3276c of the retainer includes at least one upstand 3276c' that forms a protrusion to engage with a recess in the plug of the power cord. In the illustrated form, the retainer includes a pair of upstands that are configured and sized to receive the necked portion 3277a of the plug of the power cord. Once the plug 3277 of the power cord is inserted into the socket 3276a and the retainer 3276 engages with the plug, if the power cord is pulled, the protrusion 3276c' will prevent the plug of the power cord from being removed from the socket by engaging against the widened surface of the necked area 3277a adjacent to the power cord.

[0740] Fastener apertures 3276d are provided in the base of the retainer 3276a to enable the retainer to be attached to the lower chassis portion 3202' with suitable fasteners, such as screws.

[0741] Mounting feet 3276e extend from the bottom of the retainer to minimize the possibility of sliding on the supporting surface.

[0742] The retainer 3276b includes at least one protruding wing 3276f, and in the illustrated form, has two protruding wings. These protruding wings extend transversely to the insertion direction of the plug 3277 of the power cord into the electrical connector 3276. These wings 3276f interact with complementary recesses in the lower chassis to prevent the retainer 3276b from moving horizontally.

[0743] To plug the power cord into the device, in the horizontal insertion direction ( Fig.125 The plug 3277 of the power cord is inserted into the electrical connector 3276 in the direction 1). Once the plug of the power cord is inserted into the socket 3276a, the retainer 3276b is vertically inserted into the base of the lower chassis part 3202' in the insertion direction 2. The wings 3276f of the retainer are engaged in the recesses of the lower chassis, and the projections of the retainer are engaged with the necked portion 3277a of the power cord, so that the power cord cannot be removed from the electrical connector. The retainer is then fastened to the lower chassis using fasteners. In order to remove the power cord from the electrical connector, the process needs to be reversed.

[0744] Horizontal entry electrical connectors make it easier to keep the power cord in the device and hide most of the power plug when plugged in. Horizontal entry also positions the wires closer to the mains inlet and enables the electrical connector to occupy only a small space in the device.

[0745] Rather than being in a horizontal orientation, the described electrical connector 3276 features may be used in an angled orientation that is non-horizontal and non-vertical relative to the main housing of the device. The angled orientation may reduce the likelihood of liquid infiltration and may result in the power cord protruding less from the device, which is beneficial when the device is to be mounted on a pole. The power cord may have an angled plug held in place with similar retaining features to those described above.

[0746] In addition to the power cord holder 3276b described above, the device 3010′ may have Figures 126 to 130 A power harness guide 4276 is shown. The power harness guide 4276 will suitably be made of a plastic material and is used to locate electrical wires or a power harness connected to an interior portion of the receiving socket 3276a.

[0747] The power harness guide 4276 includes an inverted generally C-shaped base portion 4276a that defines a recess 4276a' that receives the body of the receiving socket 3276a. The base portion 4276a has a pair of inwardly oriented flanges 4276a", which receive the socket 3276a when the receiving socket 3276a is positioned in the base portion 4276a. The support arm 4276b extends from the base portion 4276a and has a generally L-shaped cross-section. The support arm 4276b has a generally linear portion 4276p' adjacent to the base portion and a generally arcuate portion 4276p' away from the base portion. A plurality of retainers 4276b' are disposed along the support arm 4276b to receive and retain wires or cables. Although two retainers are shown, any suitable number of retainers may be provided.

[0748] A channel 4276b" is positioned in a portion of the support arm 4276b distal from the base portion 4276a and enables a wire or cable to be routed out of the support arm 4276b and connected to a portion of the device to be powered, such as the PCB 272. The portion 4276tp of the arm adjacent the channel is tapered to provide a smooth surface for routing the wire or cable out of the support arm.

[0749] A locator / coupler 4276d is positioned at the end of the support arm 4276b opposite the base portion to locate and couple the power harness guide 4276 to the PCB 272. The generally linear portion 4276p' is oriented substantially parallel to the plane of the PCB 272 in use.

[0750] The power harness guide 4276 couples the wires or cables from the receiving socket 3276a to the PCB 272 to control the position of the wires or cables and to allow easy assembly of the device because the PCB 272 assembly can be inserted into the main housing in one movement.

[0751] Fig.129 and 130 Detail of the lower chassis 3202' is shown in the area where the electrical connector 3276 is located. The lower chassis 3202' defines an aperture 3800 through which a power cord plug 3277 can be inserted into the receiving socket 3276a. The outer base portion is provided with a curved cavity 3802 to receive the power cord plug 3277. Lateral recesses 3804 are provided on either side of the cavity 3802 to receive the protruding wings 3276f of the retainer 3276b. These recesses have threaded apertures to receive fasteners.

[0752] like Fig.130 As shown, the lower chassis is provided with a stand member 3806, which has a channel 3808 located at either end thereof. The stand member has a height slightly larger than the height of the receiving socket 3276a. These channels are complementary to the front flange 3276a' on the receiving socket 3276a, so that the receiving socket 3276a can be inserted into the stand member 3806 from above. The base rib 3810 is provided for engaging behind the front flange of the receiving socket 3276a, so as to prevent liquid from reaching the following of the receiving socket 3276a. The depression 3812 is arranged on either side of the rib 3810, so that liquid will drip from the bottom of the front flange 3276a', rather than being wicked into the main housing of the device under the flange. The channel 3814 is arranged between the curved cavity 3802 and the orifice 3800 in the lower chassis, so as to prevent liquid from bridging to the receiving socket 3276a from the cavity 3802.

[0753] Fig.146 and 147 An alternative retainer 3276b' is shown for use in the electrical connector 3276. Unless otherwise described below, the features and functionality are as described above, and like reference numerals indicate like parts. The shape of the retainer 3276b' has been modified to correspond to the shape of the housing of the lower chassis. The retainer 3286b' has two fastener apertures 3276d; one aperture on either side of the retainer. This provides a more symmetrical load across the retainer; however, a single aperture may alternatively be provided.

[0754] Fig.145 An alternative configuration of the lower chassis 3202" is shown in the area where the electrical connector 3276 is located. Unless otherwise described below, the features and functionality are as described above with reference to Fig.129 and130 Described above, and like reference numerals indicate like parts. Cavity 3802 is shaped to receive a power cord plug and to receive retainer 3276b'. A drain orifice 3809 is provided through the base of lower chassis 3202" on the inside of retainer 3276b'. The drain orifice 3809 is positioned below the power cord plug when the power cord plug is inserted into the electrical connector. The drain orifice 3809 is configured to enable liquid to drain from the lower chassis to the outside of the housing if any liquid enters the lower chassis. The orifice forms an interruption in the wall to help prevent water from tracing from the inside of the housing to the outside, or vice versa.

[0755] Fig.131 and 132 Details of a communication connector arrangement 3274 in the upper portion of the rear wall of the lower chassis 3202' are shown. The connector arrangement 3274 is in electrical communication with the electronic circuit board 272.

[0756] In the illustrated form, the connector arrangement 3274 includes three USB ports. Although three ports are shown, any suitable number of ports may be used. The ports may be different types of communication ports.

[0757] The port can be positioned at any suitable angle relative to the vertical axis of the device. The insertion angle of the plug into the connector can be between 0 degrees and 90 degrees relative to the vertical axis. The angle can be non-horizontal to reduce the possibility of the inserted plug being hit, and can be non-horizontal and non-vertical to reduce the possibility of liquid infiltration; that is, the port can be at least partially downward so that the insertion angle of the plug into the connector is at least partially upward. Another benefit of the tilted USB connection is that the PCB can be larger. In the configuration shown, the plug is inserted into the connector at an angle perpendicular to the PCB, and thus the PCB can better use the space within the housing if the configuration is tilted. In one form, the port can be at an angle between about 5 degrees and about 30 degrees relative to the vertical axis. In one form, the port can be at an angle between about 10 degrees and about 20 degrees relative to the vertical axis. In one form, the angle is about 15 degrees relative to the vertical axis of the device to allow the USB plug to be at an angle of 90 degrees relative to the PCB 272 when inserted into the port. As Fig.132 As shown, the lower chassis portion may have a recess having walls 3274d that are inclined relative to the vertical at the insertion angle of the plug into the connector to provide support for the plug once it is inserted. A lip may be provided on each port to reduce the likelihood of water infiltration into the port.

[0758] like Fig.131As shown, each connector of the connector arrangement 3274 preferably has chamfered lead-in ribs 3274b positioned above and below the entrance of the USB port 3274a to assist in inserting the USB plug 3274c into the port 3274a. The lead-in ribs 3274b may be positioned above and below, and / or on either side of, the USB port.

[0759] The upper outer horizontal edge 3274e of the recess of the communication connector arrangement 3274 may include a sharp edge or liquid deflector to minimize the likelihood of liquid seeping into the connectors of the connector arrangement by encouraging liquid to drip from the sharp edge or liquid deflector rather than flow into the recess. For example, the sharp edge may be provided by an inwardly directed wall portion that extends toward or below the connectors and intersects the rear wall portion 3222 of the lower chassis at an acute angle (such as, for example, an orthogonal angle). Alternatively, the liquid deflector may be provided by extending the rear wall portion 3222 downwardly beyond the connectors, or by providing louvers or ramps suspended from the connectors to deflect liquid away from the connectors.

[0760] like Fig.132 As shown, device 3010' may have a battery 3222a to provide power to the device when there is a power outage. The battery may be replaceable.

[0761] In the form shown, the battery is coupled to the exterior of the back wall of the device. This provides a large surface area for cooling the battery and reduces the amount of heat entering the device from the battery. Additionally, this configuration reduces the effects of heating on the battery by heat generated by components of the device, especially when the battery is being charged. In an alternative configuration, the battery may be mounted inside the main housing.

[0762] The back wall may include recesses and / or electrical connectors for connection with battery terminals, the electrical connectors being in electrical communication with the PCB 272. A wall may be provided around the electrical connections to reduce liquid infiltration in this area.

[0763] like Fig.133 and 134 As shown, the device 3010' may have a mount 3700 for mounting the device to a stand or column 3701. This allows the device to be used in an elevated position so that it does not take up flat storage space on a bedside table.

[0764] The mounting member 3700 may be integrally formed with a portion of the main housing of the device. In the illustrated form, the mounting member 3700 is integrally formed with a left side wall 3210' of a lower chassis 3202' of the housing. The mounting member may alternatively be integrally formed with any other wall of the housing (such as a rear wall, a right side wall, or other wall).

[0765] The side of the device comprises a recess 3702. A downwardly projecting tongue 3704 has an upper end formed integrally with the wall and is positioned in the recess. The free lower end of the tongue 3704 is provided with a projecting protrusion 3706. The protrusion protrudes outwards a greater distance than the rest of the tongue.

[0766] When the device is mounted to a bracket using mounting member 3700, protrusion 3706 causes the device to lean toward the bracket, such as Fig.134 Schematically shown. Without the protrusion, the user may notice that the device is tilted away from the stand (due to the base of the device rocking inwardly toward the stand) and worry that the device is not securely held. Therefore, the protrusion 3706 positions the device so that it leans inwardly toward the stand, making the user less likely to worry about the connection between the stand and the device.

[0767] Regardless of the presence of the protrusion, the mounting body 3700 will be sufficient to allow the device 3010' to be securely held and have reasonable cushioning strength to hold the device under possible usage conditions (e.g., a user leaning on the device, the device being accidentally hit). The protrusion addresses visual appearance and user awareness of this condition.

[0768] The projection 3706 can be configured to cause the unit device to lean inwardly toward the bracket 3701 at any suitable angle. For example, the angle θ 1 It can be approximately 1-15°, or approximately 1-10°, or approximately 1-7°, or approximately 1-5°, or approximately 1-2°. Therefore θ 2 ≥0°.

[0769] The main housing of the device may be formed from any suitable material that will allow the integral formation of the mount 3700. For example, the housing may be formed from polycarbonate.

[0770] The integral mounting member 3700 has greater impact strength than an additional, screwed-in part. Strengthening of the mounting member 3700 may also be accomplished, for example, by changing the wall thickness, adding ribs, or changing the internal geometry.

[0771] The device can be composed of a C-clip 3707 (such as Figures 102 to 104 as well as Fig.1173704. The c-clip 3707 is mounted to a post or bracket. The c-clip 3707 has an arcuate recess 3707a configured to snap fit onto a suitable post or bracket 3701. One side of the c-clip includes an engagement area 3707b having two inwardly directed flanges configured to receive the tongue 3704. The protrusion 3706 on the bottom of the tongue can engage with the protrusion 3707c at the base of the engagement area 3707b. Fig.102 and 104 These features are shown.

[0772] To mount the device to a post or bracket 3701, a c-clip 3707 will be secured to the post or bracket at a suitable height by inserting the post or bracket into the arcuate recess 3707a. The device 3010' is then mounted to the c-clip 3707 and thus the post or bracket 3701 by inserting the tongue 3704 into the engagement area 3707b of the c-clip until the protrusions 3706, 3707c engage. The c-clip 3707 may have two engagement areas 3707b so that two devices 3010' can be supported by one c-clip. The devices 3010' may be lifted vertically relative to the c-clip 3707 to disengage them from the c-clip and the bracket or post.

[0773] Alternatively, the integral mount 3707 may be coupled to any complementary structure such that the device 3010' may be mounted to any suitable support such as, for example, a wall, shelf, or post.

[0774] Fig.135 and 136 An electrical connection arrangement 3722 is shown that may be used in device 3010'. Electrical connections will occur between the PCB and components of the device.

[0775] To make each electrical connection, a PCB 3722a is provided. A generally annular collar 3722b made of a suitable plastic material is then overmolded onto the PCB 3722a. Fig.135 As shown, the PCB will be provided with suitable apertures 3722c to enable the collar material to flow through the PCB during the overmolding process, thereby providing a strong connection between the collar 3722b and the PCB 3722a.

[0776] The collar 3722b and PCB 3722a assembly is then overmolded onto a portion of the main housing, such as a wall or floor of the main housing, to form a structural connection and seal between the PCB 3722a and the main housing of the device.

[0777] The collar can be formed of any suitable plastic material. In one example, the collar is formed of polycarbonate. The collar formed is substantially rigid, which means that unlike a soft collar that could potentially be pushed by a user, the PCB 3722a would need to be clawed out of the collar 3722b in order to be removed from the housing. The collar will provide a better seal than a soft collar that could be torn or damaged.

[0778] PCB 3722 may be plasma treated to facilitate bonding between overmolded collar 3722b and PCB 3722a. This may also assist in sealing against oxygen leakage into the area of ​​the housing housing electrical and / or electronic components.

[0779] The exposed portion of PCB 3722a will be connected to a suitable electrical connector.

[0780] Fig.136 Two exemplary locations of the PCB and collar assembly 3722, 3722' in the lower chassis 3202' of the device are shown. Alternative locations are possible.

[0781] Figures 148 to 150 An alternative configuration gas flow inlet elbow 1324 for delivering gas from the outlet port 1452 of the motor and / or sensor module 1400 to the liquid chamber gas inlet port 306 of the liquid chamber located in the flow therapy device is shown. Unless otherwise described below, the gas flow inlet elbow 1324 has the features and functionality described above for the elbow 324, and similar values ​​are indicated by adding 1000 to each value.

[0782] The inlet elbow 1324 includes a first body component 1324' and a second body component 1324". The first body component and the second body component are injection molded plastic components. The first body component includes a tube forming the manifold gas outlet port 1322 and a first interface portion 1324A.

[0783] The first interface portion 1324A is disposed at the base of the manifold gas outlet port 1322 and includes a stepped arrangement including an upper inclined section 1324A1 and a lower inclined section 1324A2 oriented at any suitable angle relative to the longitudinal axis 1322A of the gas flow outlet port, such as, for example, between 30 and 60 degrees, or 45 degrees. The first interface portion also includes a section 1324A3 extending forward from the base of the upper inclined section, a section 1324A4 extending upward from the top of the lower inclined section, and an inclined transition section 1324A5 located between sections 1324A3, 1324A4.

[0784] The second body member 1324" includes a second interface portion 1324A' located at the upper end of the airflow inlet port 1325. The second interface portion includes a stepped arrangement including an upper inclined section 1324A1' and a lower inclined section 1324A2' oriented at any suitable angle (such as, for example, between 30 and 60 degrees, or 45 degrees) relative to the longitudinal axis 1322A of the airflow outlet port. The second interface portion also includes a section 1324A3' extending forward from the base of the upper inclined section, a section 1324A4' extending forward from the base of the upper inclined section, and a section 1324A5' extending forward from the base of the upper inclined section. The top of the lower inclined section extends upwardly to the section 1324A4', and the inclined transition section 1324A5' between the sections 1324A3' and 1324A4'. The first interface portion and the second interface portion are complementary so that they can be paired together. A suitable soft seal (such as an O-ring seal) will be arranged between the first interface portion and the second interface portion. The first interface portion and the second interface portion can be fastened together by a fixture or a suitable fastener 1324F (such as a screw).

[0785] The first interface portion 1324A and the second interface portion 1324A' include recesses 1324R to receive fasteners or locate protrusions on the main housing of the device, thereby preventing the inlet elbow 1324 from rotating relative to the housing and / or preventing the elbow from being pulled out of the housing. The inlet elbow 1324 can be configured to be mounted to the upper chassis and / or lower chassis of the housing. Alternatively, the inlet elbow 1324 can be configured to be mounted to the forwardly inclined surface 124, 124', 3124' and / or the display carrier of the device.

[0786] A check valve 1326 is mounted inside the elbow 1324 at or adjacent to the intersection between the manifold gas outlet port 1322 tube and the gas flow inlet port 1325 tube. In the illustrated form, the check valve 1326 comprises a plate that is movably mounted in the elbow to enable gas to flow in the direction from the inlet port 1325 to the outlet port 1322, but not in the reverse direction. The check valve may be biased in a closed position in the absence of gas flow, or may be configured to close under pressure if gas attempts to flow in the direction of the outlet port 1322 to the inlet port 1325. The valve is configured to prevent liquid from flowing back through the elbow and into the housing.

[0787] The outlet port 1322 is provided with a recess 1322R to receive a T-seal or L-seal as described herein, and the inlet port 1325 is provided with a recess 1325R to receive a suitable soft seal such as an O-ring.

[0788] The smoother exterior shape of inlet elbow 1324 will likely make it easier to clean than inlet elbow 324 .

[0789] Fig.101 The device advantageously has a tongue and groove arrangement between components of the device in order to reduce the infiltration of water and oxygen into the unit. Figures 151 to 160 As shown, the device advantageously has a tongue and groove arrangement between the top of the rear outer wall 3222' of the lower chassis 3202' and the bottom of the rear outer wall 3122' of the upper chassis 3102', between the top of the left outer wall 3210' of the lower chassis and the bottom of the left outer wall 3110' of the upper chassis, between the top of the right outer wall 3216' of the lower chassis and the bottom of the right outer wall 3116 of the upper chassis, and between the top of the front lip 3242' of the lower chassis and the bottom of the front lip 3142 of the upper chassis.

[0790] These tongue and groove arrangements provide a substantially continuous liquid / air flow proof connection around the periphery of the upper chassis portion 3102' and the lower chassis portion 3202'. In the illustrated form, the lower chassis 3202' is provided with grooves 3210G, 3222G, 3216G, 3242G, and the upper chassis 3102' is provided with complementary tongues 3110T, 3122T, 3116T, 3142T configured to be at least partially received in corresponding grooves when the upper chassis portion and the lower chassis portion are assembled together. The continuous connection advantageously extends along at least a majority of the front, sides, and rear of these chassis portions, as shown, including around any corners between these surfaces. Advantageously, a tongue and groove arrangement is also provided around the communication connection portion 3274, as will be described with reference to below Fig.160 described.

[0791] Fig.156 Details of the tongue-and-groove arrangement between the top of the rear outer wall 3222' of the lower chassis 3202' and the bottom of the rear outer wall 3122' of the upper chassis 3102' are shown. The top of the rear outer wall 3222' is provided with a groove 3222G, and the bottom of the rear outer wall 3122' is provided with a tongue 3122T sized and configured to be received in the groove. The bottom of the rear outer wall 3122' of the upper chassis 3102' may also be provided with a groove 3222G' to receive the tongue 3222aT of a battery, thereby mounting the battery to the housing.

[0792] The tops of the side walls 3210', 3216' of the lower chassis 3202' are also provided with grooves 3210G, 3216G, and the bottoms of the side walls 3110, 3116 of the upper chassis 3102' are provided with tongues 3110T, 3116T sized and configured to be received in these grooves.

[0793] like Fig.159As shown, the top of the front lip 3242' of the lower chassis is provided with a groove 3242G, and the front lip 3142' of the upper chassis is provided with a tongue 3142T sized and configured to be received in the groove 3242G.

[0794] A portion of the upper chassis 3102' located in the front of the floor portion 3136 of the chamber base (which defines a recess 3138 for receiving the heater arrangement) includes a downwardly oriented, laterally extending groove 3136G, and a bottom wall 3230 of the lower chassis 3202' includes an upwardly extending tongue 3230T sized and configured to be received in the groove 3136G.

[0795] The sides and rear of the heater arrangement receiving area also include a tongue and groove arrangement. Figures 151 to 154 As shown, the upper chassis 3102' includes a downwardly extending tongue 3136T extending around the sides and rear of the heater arrangement receiving area. The end of the tongue 3136T merges with the end of the groove 3136G. The lower chassis 3202' includes an upwardly oriented groove 3230G extending around the sides and rear of the heater arrangement receiving area. The end of the groove 3230G merges with the end of the tongue 3230T. Thus, there is a continuous tongue and groove arrangement around the substantially integrated perimeter of the chamber base.

[0796] Fig.158 An alternative configuration of a tongue and groove arrangement between the upper and lower chassis portions at the rear of the heater arrangement receiving area is shown. In this configuration, the lower chassis portion includes an upwardly extending tongue 3230T' and the upper chassis portion includes a downwardly oriented groove 3134G located in the base of the wall 3134, wherein the tongue 3230T' is sized and configured to be received in the groove 3134G.

[0797] In one configuration, the upper chassis portion and the lower chassis portion may have a downwardly projecting tongue and an upwardly projecting groove in the rear portion of the housing, and an upwardly projecting groove in the front portion of the housing (e.g., Fig.117 The configuration may be reversed, starting approximately in the area where the handle mechanism is connected to the upper chassis.

[0798] Fig.151 , 152160 shows the details of the tongue-and-groove arrangement between the communication coupling portion 3274 and the upper and lower chassis portions. The bottom of the rear outer wall portion 3122 of the upper chassis is provided with a tongue 3122T extending downward, and the top of the outer wall of the communication coupling portion 3274 includes an upwardly oriented groove 3274G sized and configured to receive the tongue 3122T. The top of the rear outer wall portion 3222 of the lower chassis is provided with a tongue 3222T extending upward, and the bottom of the outer wall of the communication coupling portion 3274 includes a downwardly oriented groove 3274G 'sized and configured to receive the tongue 3222T. Two surfaces (e.g., T2B and G2B) are configured to converge so that the upper and lower chassis are sealed together. Alternatively or in addition, other surfaces may be configured to converge. The inner wall of the groove 3274G' is advantageously shorter than the outer wall of the groove so as to enable the communication coupling portion to snap fit into place on the lower chassis. The tongue and groove arrangement preferably extends around the entire periphery of the communication coupling portion 3274. For example, the lower chassis portion may include a tongue 3222T sized and configured to be received in the groove 3274G' that extends along the base of the communication coupling portion 3274 and all the way to the side.

[0799] like Fig.157 As shown, a tongue and groove arrangement is also provided between the outer extension tube or conduit 3133 of the upper chassis 3102' and the airflow channel tube 3264 of the lower chassis 3202'. The outer wall portion of the airflow channel tube 3264 includes an upwardly oriented annular groove 3264G that is spaced from the upper end of the airflow channel tube 3264 and is positioned adjacent to the top plate 3262 of the motor and / or sensor subassembly recess 3250. The bottom edge of the extension tube 3133 of the upper chassis includes a downwardly extending annular tongue 3133T that is sized and configured to be received in the groove 3264G. Fig.157 It can be seen that the airflow channel tube 3264 extends upwardly through the extension tube 3133 at least to the upper edge of the extension tube, and in the illustrated form, extends beyond the upper edge of the extension tube and beyond the inclined surface 3124'.

[0800] Because the gas flow channel tube 3264 extends upward through the extension tube 3133 and extends around the inlet elbow 324, 1324, and is formed as a single continuous, uninterrupted, integral portion including the wall 3256 defining the recess 3250 and the top plate 3262, in the event of a leak, the gas will follow the path of least resistance, with the gas collecting outside the leak area and exiting to the atmosphere outside the inlet elbow 324, 1324. It is highly unlikely that the gas will flow into the housing and reach the electronics of the device via a tortuous path.

[0801] A tongue and groove arrangement is also provided between the upper edge of the filter housing 3354 in the lower chassis 3202' and the corresponding aperture 3354A in the upper chassis 3102'. The tongue and groove arrangement may extend around the entire periphery of the filter housing 3354 and aperture 3354A to prevent gas from leaking from the interior of the filter housing to the exterior of the filter housing and into the main housing of the device. One of the filter housing 3354 and the wall around the aperture 3354A will have a groove, while the other of the filter housing and the wall around the aperture will have a tongue sized and configured to be received in the groove.

[0802] Any one or more of these tongue and groove arrangements may have Fig.161 The configuration shown, wherein the groove G1 has a base G1B and substantially parallel side walls G1SW, and the tongue T1 has an end or edge T1E and substantially parallel side walls T1SW. Alternatively or additionally, any one or more of these tongue-and-groove arrangements may have Fig.162 Configuration shown, wherein groove G2 has base G2B, first side wall G2SW1 extending orthogonally from this base, and second side wall G2SW2, and this second side wall initially extends orthogonally from this base and then terminates at bevel G2C or inclined surface.This bevel helps to m...

Claims

1. An apparatus for delivering an airflow, comprising: a housing having a recess, and Outlet port for air flow, wherein the recess is defined by at least one wall that is substantially continuous, gas impermeable and uninterrupted except for a gas flow passage from the recess to an outlet port of the housing.

2. An apparatus for delivering an airflow, comprising: A housing and a lever, wherein only one side of the lever is movably connected to the housing.

3. An apparatus for delivering a gas flow, comprising: The housing comprises an upper chassis and a lower chassis, an air flow channel, the air flow channel being defined in the housing between the upper chassis and the lower chassis, electrical components located in the housing, and A continuous, uninterrupted wall located in the housing, the wall being adapted to pneumatically isolate the electrical components from the air flow passage.

4. An apparatus for delivering an airflow, the apparatus comprising: The housing comprises: Recesses for motor and / or sensor modules, an outlet port for airflow, and a removable elbow for airflow; and Humidifier, a humidifier has: Heater, a chamber base for receiving the liquid chamber, and A lever and / or a detent are provided to assist in inserting and / or retaining the liquid chamber in the chamber base and / or removing the liquid chamber from the chamber base.

5. An apparatus for delivering a gas flow, the apparatus comprising: Humidifier, a humidifier has: Heater, a chamber base for receiving the liquid chamber, and A rod member is used to assist in inserting and / or retaining the liquid chamber in the chamber base and / or removing it from the chamber base.

6. An apparatus for delivering a gas flow, the apparatus comprising: A humidifier, the humidifier having: Heater, and a chamber base for the liquid chamber; Therein, the device comprises at least one detent for assisting the insertion and / or retention of the liquid chamber in the chamber base.

7. An apparatus for delivering a gas flow, the apparatus comprising: housing, and a removable airflow tube defining an airflow passage for airflow, and A removable retaining cover is configured such that the removable airflow tube can be removed from the housing if the removable retaining cover is removed from the housing, and the removable airflow tube cannot be removed from the housing if the removable retaining cover is attached to the housing.

8. An apparatus for delivering a gas flow, the apparatus comprising: case; as well as Removable airflow tube for airflow, wherein the removable airflow tube comprises a port having an axis and an electrical connector for coupling to a complementary connector when the removable airflow tube is connected to the housing, Therein, the electrical connector is oriented at an angle between about -15 degrees and about +30 degrees relative to the axis.

9. An apparatus for delivering a gas flow, the apparatus comprising: case; as well as Removable airflow tube for airflow, wherein the removable airflow tube includes an electrical connector for coupling to a complementary connector when the removable airflow tube is connected to the housing, Therein, the body of the removable airflow tube is overmolded onto the electrical connector.

10. An apparatus for delivering a gas flow, the apparatus comprising: case; as well as Removable airflow tube for airflow, Therein, the removable airflow tube defines an airflow passage and includes an internal sump area that communicates with the airflow passage to allow for accumulation of liquid.

11. An apparatus for delivering a gas flow, the apparatus comprising: case; as well as a removable airflow tube defining an airflow passage for airflow, Wherein, the removable airflow tube includes a PCB electrical connector, which is used to be connected to a complementary connector when the airflow tube is connected to the housing.

12. An apparatus for delivering a gas flow, the apparatus comprising: a motor and / or sensor module including a motor having an impeller and a gas outlet port, and an outlet gas flow path and a sensing layer having a sensing and gas flow path including a gas flow inlet port for receiving gas from the gas outlet port and a gas flow outlet port; The pressure drop coefficient from the gas outlet port to the gas flow path and the gas flow outlet port of the sensing layer is about 5mPa (Lmin -1 ) -2 About 50mPa(L min -1 ) -2 between.

13. An apparatus for delivering a gas flow, the apparatus comprising: The shield is used to receive the electrical component, the shield is configured to at least partially surround and protect the electrical component, and the shield is configured to support the electrical component but enable the electrical component to move in at least one dimension within the shield.

14. An apparatus for delivering a gas flow, the apparatus comprising: case, Heater in the housing, a chamber base in the housing, the chamber base being adapted to receive the liquid chamber, and A lever is movably connected to the housing, wherein the lever surrounds a portion of the chamber base when the lever is in the closed position.

15. An apparatus for delivering a gas flow, the apparatus comprising: A housing includes an upper chassis and a lower chassis, and a substantially continuous tongue and groove arrangement between the upper chassis and the lower chassis.

16. An apparatus for delivering a gas flow, the apparatus comprising: case, Mounting hardware, which is used to mount the device on a bracket or support, and A projection configured to cause the device to lean toward a bracket or post when mounted thereto.

17. An apparatus for delivering a gas flow, the apparatus comprising: housing, and A mounting member is used to mount the device to a bracket or a support, wherein the mounting member is integrally formed with a portion of the housing.

18. An apparatus for delivering a gas flow, the apparatus comprising: housing, and An airflow tube defines an airflow passage for airflow, wherein the airflow tube includes a T-shaped seal or an L-shaped seal to assist in sealing an end of the airflow tube to another component.

19. An apparatus for delivering a gas flow, the apparatus comprising: case, a recess in the housing for receiving the motor and / or sensor module, and A component for providing functionality to the device and being fixable to the housing, wherein the component includes a retaining feature arranged to extend beneath the base of the motor and / or sensor module so as to maintain the motor and / or sensor module in a proper position in a recess in the housing.

20. An apparatus for delivering a gas flow, the apparatus comprising: case, An electrical connector includes a receiving socket located in a housing, the receiving socket being arranged to receive a plug of a power cord by moving the plug in a first direction, and the electrical connector includes a retainer so as to maintain the plug in engagement with the socket by moving the retainer in a second direction substantially transverse to the first direction.

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