Filter and adapter

Abstract

Filters and adapters for respiratory assistance devices are disclosed. An adapter is connectable to a flow generator and a humidification chamber of a humidifier, the adapter configured to connect to an outlet of the flow generator and an inlet of the humidification chamber. A filter is connectable to the adapter and has a filter housing and a filter media, the filter media located within the filter housing between a filter inlet and a filter outlet for filtering gas as it passes through the filter media.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a filter and / or adapter, and more specifically, but not exclusively, to a filter and / or adapter connected to a humidification chamber and a flow generator. Background Technology

[0002] Breathing assist devices are used in various environments, including hospitals, medical facilities, nursing homes, and homes, to deliver airflow to users or patients. These devices can utilize airflow to deliver supplemental oxygen or other gases, and / or deliver heated and humidified gases. Breathing assist devices allow for the regulation and control of airflow characteristics, including flow rate, pressure, and gas concentration.

[0003] One object of the present invention is to provide an improved filter and / or adapter to address or improve one or more disadvantages or limitations associated with the prior art, or at least to provide a useful option for the public. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 782,994, filed April 3, 2025; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 783,003, filed April 3, 2025; and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 875,226, filed September 3, 2025, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0005] In a first aspect, this disclosure provides a filter and adapter for a respiratory assist device, comprising: An adapter, capable of connecting to a flow generator configured to generate airflow and a humidification chamber of a humidifier, the adapter providing at least a portion of the gas flow path between the flow generator outlet and the humidification chamber inlet. The adapter includes a gas inlet configured to connect to the outlet of the flow generator, and a gas outlet configured to connect to the inlet of the humidification chamber. A filter includes a filter housing and a filter medium. The filter housing includes a filter inlet and a filter outlet, and the filter medium is located within the filter housing, between the filter inlet and the filter outlet, to filter gas as it flows through the filter medium. The adapter further includes an adapter filter outlet and an adapter filter inlet, the adapter filter outlet being configured to connect to the filter inlet and the adapter filter inlet being configured to connect to the filter outlet, the adapter providing: a) a gas flow path between the adapter's gas inlet and the adapter's adapter filter outlet and b) a gas flow path between the adapter's gas outlet and the adapter's adapter filter inlet.

[0006] The gas flow path between the outlet of the flow generator and the inlet of the humidification chamber can be defined by the following: the gas flow path from the flow generator to the filter is defined by the adapter, the gas flow path through the filter is defined by the filter housing, and the gas flow path from the filter to the humidification chamber is defined by the adapter.

[0007] The adapter filter outlet and / or the adapter filter inlet of the adapter may be vertically oriented.

[0008] The filter can be configured to be vertically connected to the adapter.

[0009] The connection between the adapter filter outlet and the filter inlet of the adapter can be one or more of the following: Friction fit, Sliding connection, Overcompensation.

[0010] The adapter filter outlet or the filter inlet of the adapter may include a seal configured to seal the connection between the adapter filter outlet and the filter inlet.

[0011] The connection between the adapter filter inlet and the filter outlet can be one or more of the following: Friction fit, Sliding connection, Overcompensation.

[0012] The adapter filter inlet or the filter outlet of the adapter may include a seal configured to seal the connection between the adapter filter inlet and the filter outlet.

[0013] The filter media of the filter can be configured to reduce and / or prevent any contaminants and / or water and / or aerosols or other particulate matter from passing through the filter.

[0014] The adapter filter outlet of the adapter and / or the filter outlet may include anti-misconnection features to prevent connection between the adapter filter outlet and the filter outlet.

[0015] The adapter filter inlet of the adapter and / or the filter inlet may include anti-misconnection features to prevent connection between the adapter filter inlet and the filter inlet.

[0016] The anti-misconnection feature can be one or more of the following: groove, protrusion, bonding feature and / or different diameters.

[0017] The filter may not require the correct flow direction.

[0018] The filter may have the correct flow direction, and one or both of the filter and the adapter include anti-misconnection features to allow the filter and the adapter to be connected only in the correct flow direction.

[0019] The downstream surface of the filter medium is coated with a hydrophobic material.

[0020] The adapter can be connected to and disconnected from the flow generator and the humidification chamber.

[0021] The adapter may also provide at least a portion of the flow path between the humidification chamber outlet and the component.

[0022] The component can be a device outlet port or a conduit.

[0023] The adapter may include a humidifying gas inlet configured to be connected to the outlet of the humidification chamber and a humidifying gas outlet configured to be connected to the component.

[0024] The adapter can be formed as a single component.

[0025] The upper surface of the filter inlet and / or filter outlet may include one or more gripping features.

[0026] The filter housing may include one or more gripping features.

[0027] In a second aspect, this disclosure may provide a filter and adapter for a respiratory assist device, comprising: An adapter is available for connection to a flow generator configured to generate airflow and a humidification chamber of a humidifier, the humidification chamber being in fluid communication with the flow generator. The adapter provides at least a portion of the gas flow path between the flow generator outlet and the humidification chamber inlet. The adapter is configured to connect to the flow generator outlet and the humidification chamber inlet. A filter, comprising a filter housing and a filter medium, wherein the filter medium is located within the filter housing between a filter inlet and a filter outlet, for filtering gas as it passes through the filter medium. The gas flow path between the outlet of the flow generator and the inlet of the humidification chamber is defined by the following: the gas flow path from the flow generator to the filter is defined by the adapter; the gas flow path through the filter is defined by the filter housing; and the gas flow path from the filter to the humidification chamber is defined by the adapter.

[0028] In a third aspect, this disclosure may provide an adapter for connecting a filter to a flow generator and a humidification chamber, the adapter being capable of connecting to the humidification chamber of the flow generator and the humidifier, the adapter comprising: A gas inlet configured to connect to the outlet of the flow generator, a gas outlet configured to connect to the inlet of the humidification chamber, an adapter filter outlet configured to connect to the filter inlet, and an adapter filter inlet configured to connect to the filter outlet. The adapter is configured to provide: a) a gas flow path between the gas inlet of the adapter and the adapter filter outlet of the adapter and b) a gas flow path between the gas outlet of the adapter and the adapter filter inlet of the adapter.

[0029] The adapter may also include one or more alignment features configured to engage with corresponding features of the flow generator.

[0030] The corresponding feature may be located on the cover of the flow generator.

[0031] The one or more alignment features can be configured to help properly align the adapter (and the humidification chamber, if the humidification chamber is connected to the adapter) in one or more of the following directions: lateral (left or right), upward, and / or downward.

[0032] The one or more alignment features may be located at or near the gas inlet of the adapter, and the alignment features are configured to engage with corresponding features on the flow generator shroud.

[0033] One or more alignment features of the adapter may include at least one protrusion having at least one bevel, and the corresponding feature of the flow generator is a groove having a corresponding bevel.

[0034] The protrusion can be V-shaped, and the groove can be a corresponding V-shape.

[0035] One or more alignment features of the adapter may include grooves, and the corresponding feature of the shield is a protrusion.

[0036] One or more alignment features of the adapter may be located on the upper surface of the gas flow path between the gas inlet of the adapter and the outlet of the adapter filter.

[0037] One or more alignment features of the adapter may include channels or ribs configured to engage with corresponding ribs or channels of the flow generator housing to help the user align the adapter with the flow generator during connection and disconnection.

[0038] The channels and ribs can help maintain alignment between the flow generator outlet and the adapter's gas inlet during the process of connecting the adapter's gas inlet to the flow generator outlet and / or connecting the humidified gas outlet to the assembly.

[0039] The one or more alignment features may be located between the gas inlet and the humidified gas outlet.

[0040] The adapter may include a handle configured to allow the adapter to be detached from the flow generator.

[0041] The handle can extend from the vertical portion of the gas flow path between the gas inlet of the adapter and the outlet of the adapter filter.

[0042] The handle can extend in a direction perpendicular to the vertical portion.

[0043] The handle can extend in a generally horizontal direction.

[0044] The handle can extend in a direction generally perpendicular to the disassembly direction in which the adapter is removed from the flow generator.

[0045] The handle allows the user to apply force in the disassembly direction.

[0046] The disassembly direction can be away from the outlet of the flow generator.

[0047] The adapter may include tabs located on the gas flow path between the adapter's gas outlet and the adapter filter inlet.

[0048] The tab can extend along a direction perpendicular to the gas flow path between the gas outlet of the adapter and the filter inlet of the adapter.

[0049] The tab can be located at, above, or below, the horizontal portion of the gas flow path between the gas outlet of the adapter and the inlet of the adapter filter.

[0050] The lower surface of the tab may include one or more gripping features.

[0051] The gripping feature may be one or more of the following: ribs, textures, protrusions, fan-shaped portions and / or openings.

[0052] The tabs can extend in a generally horizontal direction.

[0053] The tab can extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the disassembly direction in which the adapter is removed from the humidification chamber.

[0054] The tab allows the user to apply force in the disassembly direction.

[0055] The disassembly direction can be away from the humidification chamber.

[0056] The adapter may include a cutout located on the horizontal portion of the gas flow path between the gas inlet of the adapter and the adapter filter outlet of the adapter.

[0057] The surface of the cut may include one or more gripping features.

[0058] The gripping feature may be one or more of the following: ribs, textures, protrusions, fan-shaped portions and / or openings.

[0059] The adapter may also provide at least a portion of the flow path between the humidification chamber outlet and the component, and wherein the adapter includes a humidification gas inlet configured to be connected to the humidification chamber outlet and a humidification gas outlet configured to be connected to the component.

[0060] The upper surface of the gas flow path between the humidifier gas inlet and the humidified gas outlet may include one or more gripping features.

[0061] The gripping feature may be one or more of the following: ribs, textures, protrusions, fan-shaped portions and / or openings.

[0062] The adapter may include an atomizer port configured to introduce atomized particles into a gas flow path between the humidification chamber outlet and the component.

[0063] The atomizer port may include at least one gripping feature on at least a portion of its circumference.

[0064] The atomizer port may extend in one or more of the following directions: away from the filter, or at an angle to the horizontal and / or vertical plane.

[0065] In a fourth aspect, this disclosure may provide a filter and adapter for a respiratory assist device, comprising: An adapter, capable of connecting to a flow generator configured to generate airflow and a humidification chamber of a humidifier, the adapter providing at least a portion of the gas flow path between the flow generator outlet and the humidification chamber inlet. The adapter includes a gas inlet configured to connect to the outlet of the flow generator, and a gas outlet configured to connect to the inlet of the humidification chamber. The adapter also includes a filter housing configured to receive at least a portion of a filter, the filter being inserted into an opening in the filter housing, the filter housing having an adapter filter outlet configured to be connected to a filter inlet, and an adapter filter inlet configured to be connected to the filter outlet. When the filter is inserted into the filter housing, a flow path is formed between the adapter filter outlet and the filter inlet, and between the adapter filter inlet and the filter outlet. The filter includes a filter frame and a filter medium, which is supported by the filter frame between the filter inlet and the filter outlet, and is used to filter gas as it passes through the filter medium. The adapter provides: a) a gas flow path between the gas inlet of the adapter and the outlet of the adapter filter and b) a gas flow path between the gas outlet of the adapter and the inlet of the adapter filter.

[0066] The filter can be configured to be sealed to the filter housing of the adapter, thereby allowing gas to flow from the filter inlet through the filter medium to the filter outlet.

[0067] The filter housing can be cylindrical.

[0068] The filter may be cylindrical.

[0069] The adapter or filter may include an end cap configured to hold the filter within a filter housing.

[0070] The adapter and / or end cap may include one or more fixing features configured to secure the end cap to the adapter.

[0071] The end cap can be configured to cover the opening of the filter housing.

[0072] The end cap can be configured to seal the opening of the filter housing.

[0073] The opening of the end cap or filter housing may include an O-ring configured to form a seal between the end cap and the filter housing.

[0074] The adapter filter outlet of the adapter can be configured to direct airflow to the central axis of the filter housing.

[0075] When the filter is inserted into the filter housing, the filter inlet can direct airflow to the central axis of the filter, and the airflow can be configured to flow radially from the central axis of the filter module and through the filter medium.

[0076] The filter outlet can pass through the filter medium and reach the peripheral flow path defined by the filter medium and the inner wall of the filter housing.

[0077] The filter outlet passes through one or more openings in the filter frame and reaches the peripheral flow path defined by the filter frame and the inner wall of the filter housing.

[0078] The airflow can be configured to flow along the peripheral flow path toward the adapter filter inlet of the adapter.

[0079] The adapter filter inlet of the adapter can be disposed through the side of the filter housing.

[0080] The adapter filter inlet is located through the rear of the filter housing.

[0081] The adapter can be connected to or disconnected from the flow generator and the humidification chamber.

[0082] The adapter may also provide at least a portion of the flow path between the humidification chamber outlet and the component.

[0083] The component may be a device outlet port or a conduit.

[0084] The adapter may include a humidifying gas inlet configured to be connected to the outlet of the humidification chamber, and a humidifying gas outlet configured to be connected to the component.

[0085] The adapter can be configured as a single component.

[0086] In a fifth aspect, this disclosure provides a filter and adapter for a respiratory assist device, comprising: An adapter, which connects to a flow generator and a humidification chamber, provides a first flow path between the flow generator outlet and the filter, and a second flow path between the filter and the humidification chamber inlet. A filter comprising a filter frame and a filter medium, the filter including a filter inlet and a filter outlet, the filter medium being located between the filter inlet and the filter outlet for filtering gas as it passes through the filter medium.

[0087] In a sixth aspect, this disclosure provides a filter and adapter for a respiratory assist device, comprising: An adapter, capable of connecting to a flow generator configured to generate airflow and a humidification chamber of a humidifier, the adapter providing at least a portion of the gas flow path between the flow generator outlet and the humidification chamber inlet. The adapter includes a gas inlet configured to connect to the outlet of the flow generator, and a gas outlet configured to connect to the inlet of the humidification chamber. The adapter also includes an adapter filter outlet configured to be connected to a filter inlet and an adapter filter inlet configured to be connected to the filter outlet, wherein the adapter filter inlet surrounds the adapter filter outlet, or the adapter filter outlet surrounds the adapter filter inlet. The filter includes a filter housing, a filter media frame, and a filter media. The filter media is supported by the filter media frame between the filter inlet and the filter outlet for filtering gas as it passes through. The filter media frame includes the filter inlet, and the filter housing includes the filter outlet. in: a) The adapter filter inlet of the adapter surrounds the adapter filter outlet of the adapter, and the filter outlet of the filter surrounds the filter inlet of the filter, or b) The adapter filter outlet of the adapter outlet surrounds the adapter filter inlet of the adapter, and the filter inlet of the filter surrounds the filter outlet of the filter, and The adapter provides: a) a gas flow path between the gas inlet of the adapter and the outlet of the adapter filter and b) a gas flow path between the gas outlet of the adapter and the inlet of the adapter filter.

[0088] The adapter filter outlet and adapter filter inlet can be arranged coaxially.

[0089] The filter inlet and filter outlet can be arranged coaxially.

[0090] The gas flow path between the gas inlet of the adapter and the outlet of the adapter filter can extend within at least a portion of the gas flow path between the gas outlet of the adapter and the inlet of the adapter filter.

[0091] The filter media frame can be located inside the filter housing.

[0092] The filter inlet and filter outlet can be located at the rear of the filter.

[0093] The filter inlet can be configured to guide airflow through the filter medium, wherein, after passing through the filter medium, the airflow is guided to a peripheral flow path defined by the outer wall of the filter medium frame and the inner wall of the filter housing.

[0094] The end cap can be configured to guide the airflow from the filter media frame into the peripheral flow path.

[0095] The peripheral flow path can be set around part or the entire periphery of the filter media frame.

[0096] The peripheral flow path can extend from the front of the filter housing to the filter outlet.

[0097] The filter outlet and / or adapter filter inlet may include a seal configured to form a seal between the filter outlet and the adapter filter inlet of the adapter.

[0098] In a seventh aspect, this disclosure may provide a filter and adapter for a respiratory assist device, comprising: The adapter provides the gas flow path between the flow generator and the filter, and between the filter and the humidification chamber. The adapter also includes a filter housing configured to accommodate at least a portion of the filter, the filter being inserted into an opening in the filter housing, the filter inlet being pneumatically connected to a flow generator via the adapter, and the filter outlet being pneumatically connected to a humidification chamber via the adapter. The filter includes a filter frame and a filter medium, which is supported by the filter frame between the filter inlet and the filter outlet for filtering gas as it passes through the filter medium.

[0099] In an eighth aspect, this disclosure may provide an adapter for a respiratory assist device, the adapter comprising: The humidification chamber section is configured to connect to and be in fluid communication with the humidification chamber. The flow generator section is configured to connect to and be in fluid communication with the flow generator. The filter section is configured to connect to and be in fluid communication with the filter. An outlet portion, configured to be in fluid communication with an outlet, said outlet being configured to be in fluid communication with a conduit and / or component, and The gas flow path is provided by an adapter and / or one or more conduits, the gas flow path being from the flow generator through the flow generator section to the filter section, from the filter section through the filter to the humidification chamber section, from the humidification chamber through the humidification chamber to the outlet section, and from the outlet section to the conduit.

[0100] The atomizer port may be configured to be in fluid communication with one or more of the following: a filter section located downstream of the filter, a humidification chamber section (optionally located downstream of the humidification chamber), an outlet section, or a conduit or assembly of an adapter connected downstream of the humidification chamber.

[0101] The filter portion may include a first port and a second port, wherein the first port of the filter portion of the adapter is configured to be connected to a first port of the filter, and the second port of the filter portion of the adapter is configured to be connected to a second port of the filter, wherein the connection of these ports provides fluid communication between the filter portion and the filter.

[0102] The first and second ports of the filter section can extend in an upward direction.

[0103] The filter can be configured to be connected to and disconnected from the filter section of the adapter.

[0104] The humidification chamber portion may include a first port and a second port, wherein the first port of the humidification chamber portion of the adapter is configured to connect to a first port of the humidification chamber, and the second port of the humidification chamber portion of the adapter is configured to connect to a second port of the humidification chamber, wherein the connection of these ports provides fluid communication between the humidification chamber portion and the humidification chamber.

[0105] The filter section and / or the filter connected to the filter section may be located upstream of the outlet section.

[0106] The atomizer port of the outlet section can be configured to extend at an angle to the horizontal direction.

[0107] The filter may include a filter medium.

[0108] The filter medium may include one or more of glass fiber, polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyamide (nylon), and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE).

[0109] The filter medium can be a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter medium.

[0110] At least a portion of the gas flow path defined by the various parts of the adapter may be formed by the peripheral wall.

[0111] A conduit is provided between the filter section and the filter, optionally located between the first port of the adapter and the first port of the filter and / or between the second port of the adapter and the second port of the filter.

[0112] In a ninth aspect, this disclosure may provide a filter and adapter for a respiratory assist device, comprising: An adapter, capable of connecting to a flow generator configured to generate airflow and a humidification chamber of a humidifier, the adapter providing at least a portion of the gas flow path between the flow generator outlet and the humidification chamber inlet. The adapter includes a gas inlet configured to connect to the outlet of the flow generator, and a gas outlet configured to connect to the inlet of the humidification chamber. A filter includes a filter housing and a filter medium. The filter housing includes a filter inlet and a filter outlet. The filter medium is located within the filter housing, between the filter inlet and the filter outlet, for filtering gas as it passes through the filter medium. The adapter further includes an adapter filter outlet configured to be connected to the filter inlet, and an adapter filter inlet configured to be connected to the filter outlet, the adapter providing: a) a gas flow path between the gas inlet of the adapter and the adapter filter outlet of the adapter and b) a gas flow path between the gas outlet of the adapter and the adapter filter inlet of the adapter.

[0113] In a tenth aspect, this disclosure may provide a filter and adapter for a respiratory assist device, comprising: An adapter is available for connection to a flow generator configured to generate airflow and a humidification chamber of a humidifier, the humidification chamber being in fluid communication with the flow generator. The adapter provides at least a portion of the gas flow path between the flow generator outlet and the humidification chamber inlet. The adapter is configured to connect to the flow generator outlet and the humidification chamber inlet. A filter, comprising a filter housing and a filter medium, wherein the filter medium is located within the filter housing between a filter inlet and a filter outlet, for filtering gas as it passes through the filter medium. The gas flow path between the outlet of the flow generator and the inlet of the humidification chamber is defined by the following parts: the gas flow path from the flow generator to the filter is defined by the adapter, the gas flow path through the filter is defined by the filter housing, and the gas flow path from the filter to the humidification chamber is defined by the adapter.

[0114] In an eleventh aspect, this disclosure may provide an adapter for connecting a filter to a flow generator and a humidification chamber, the adapter being connectable to the humidification chamber of the flow generator and the humidifier, the adapter comprising: A gas inlet is configured to be connected to a flow generator outlet; a gas outlet is configured to be connected to a humidification chamber inlet; an adapter filter outlet is configured to be connected to a filter inlet; and an adapter filter inlet is configured to be connected to a filter outlet. The adapter is configured to provide: a) a gas flow path between the adapter's gas inlet and the adapter's adapter filter outlet and b) a gas flow path between the adapter's gas outlet and the adapter's adapter filter inlet.

[0115] In a twelfth aspect, this disclosure may provide a filter and adapter for a respiratory assist device, comprising: An adapter, capable of connecting to a flow generator configured to generate airflow and a humidification chamber of a humidifier, the adapter providing at least a portion of the gas flow path between the flow generator outlet and the humidification chamber inlet. The adapter includes a gas inlet configured to connect to the outlet of the flow generator, and a gas outlet configured to connect to the inlet of the humidification chamber. A filter includes a filter housing and a filter medium. The filter housing includes a filter inlet and a filter outlet, and the filter medium is located within the filter housing, between the filter inlet and the filter outlet, for filtering gas as it passes through the filter medium. The adapter further includes an adapter filter outlet configured to be connected to the filter inlet (optionally via a conduit) and an adapter filter inlet configured to be connected to the filter outlet (optionally via a conduit), the adapter providing: a) a gas flow path between the adapter's gas inlet and the adapter's adapter filter outlet and b) a gas flow path between the adapter's gas outlet and the adapter's adapter filter inlet.

[0116] In a thirteenth aspect, this disclosure may provide a filter and adapter for a respiratory assist device, comprising: An adapter is provided that can be connected to a flow generator configured to generate airflow and a humidification chamber of a humidifier, the humidification chamber being in fluid communication with the flow generator. The adapter provides at least a portion of the gas flow path between the flow generator outlet and the humidification chamber inlet. The adapter is configured to connect to the flow generator outlet and the humidification chamber inlet. A filter, comprising a filter housing and a filter medium, wherein the filter medium is located within the filter housing between a filter inlet and a filter outlet, for filtering gas as it passes through the filter medium. The gas flow path between the flow generator outlet and the humidification chamber inlet is defined by the following: the gas flow path from the flow generator to the filter is defined by an adapter and / or conduit; the gas flow path through the filter is defined by the filter housing; and the gas flow path from the filter to the humidification chamber is defined by an adapter and / or conduit.

[0117] In a fourteenth aspect, this disclosure may provide an adapter for connecting a filter to a flow generator and a humidification chamber, the adapter being connectable to the humidification chamber of the flow generator and the humidifier, the adapter comprising: A gas inlet configured to connect to the outlet of the flow generator, a gas outlet configured to connect to the inlet of the humidification chamber, an adapter filter outlet configured to connect to the filter inlet (optionally via a conduit), and an adapter filter inlet configured to connect to the filter outlet (optionally via a conduit). The adapter is configured to provide: a) a gas flow path between the gas inlet of the adapter and the outlet of the adapter filter and b) a gas flow path between the gas outlet of the adapter and the inlet of the adapter filter.

[0118] The diameter of the humidifier gas inlet and / or the gas outlet of the adapter 126 may be about 20 mm to about 30 mm, or about 24 mm to about 27 mm, or about 22 mm to about 24 mm, or about 22 mm to about 23 mm, or about 22.5 mm, or about 22.6 mm, or about 22.7 mm, or about 22.8 mm.

[0119] The distance between the center of the gas inlet and the center of the gas outlet of the humidifier can be approximately 40 mm to approximately 60 mm, or approximately 45 mm to approximately 55 mm, or approximately 50 mm to approximately 55 mm, or approximately 52 mm to approximately 53 mm, or approximately 52.6 mm, or approximately 52.7 mm, or approximately 52.8 mm, or approximately 52.9 mm.

[0120] In a fifteenth aspect, this disclosure may provide a method for switching a respiratory therapy system, the respiratory therapy system including a respiratory assist device, the method switching between flow-based respiratory therapy and pressure-based respiratory therapy by selecting one of flow-based respiratory therapy and pressure-based respiratory therapy on a user interface, wherein the respiratory therapy system includes an adapter and / or filter as described in any of the preceding claims, and the configuration of the adapter and / or filter remains unchanged when switching between flow-based respiratory therapy and pressure-based respiratory therapy.

[0121] In a sixteenth aspect, this disclosure may provide a method of providing one or more respiratory therapies to a patient, the method comprising: being equipped with a flow generator, a humidifier, an adapter, a filter connected to the adapter, a supply catheter, and a patient interface connected to the supply catheter, the patient interface being configured to provide the patient with flow-based respiratory therapy and pressure-based respiratory therapy, and allowing a user to select between flow-based and pressure-based respiratory therapy on a user interface, and to switch between flow-based and pressure-based respiratory therapy based on the selection.

[0122] The flow-based treatment can be a high-flow treatment.

[0123] The pressure-based treatment can be: continuous positive airway pressure or bilevel ventilation.

[0124] In a seventeenth aspect, this disclosure may provide a respiratory therapy system, comprising: A flow generator, which is configured to produce airflow. A humidifier configured to humidify the airflow, the humidifier including a humidification chamber, An adapter and / or a filter, wherein the adapter and / or filter is defined by any of the foregoing aspects.

[0125] The flow generator and / or the humidifier can be configured to operate in multiple treatment modes.

[0126] The various treatment modalities may include flow-based respiratory therapy and pressure-based respiratory therapy.

[0127] The flow generator and / or the humidifier can switch between the multiple treatment modes without replacing the adapter and / or filter.

[0128] In an eleventh aspect, this disclosure may provide a conduit for breathing gases, the conduit comprising: A conduit comprising a wall defining a lumen configured to provide a gas passage for airflow, the conduit having one or more of the following: The pitch is approximately 4.2 mm to approximately 4.4 mm. The inner diameter is approximately 18mm to approximately 19mm. The length is approximately 1.7m to about 1.9m.

[0129] The conduit can be configured as an adapter to connect to the aforementioned aspects.

[0130] The wall of the tube may include a first elongated member and a second elongated member.

[0131] In an eighteenth aspect, this disclosure may provide a parts kit comprising one or more of the following: a humidification chamber, an adapter and / or filter of any of the foregoing aspects, and a conduit.

[0132] The catheter can be any of the catheters described above.

[0133] In the connected state, the flow resistance of the kit at a flow rate of 60 LPM is approximately 2 cmH2O to approximately 6 cmH2O, or approximately 3 cmH2O to approximately 5 cmH2O, or approximately 4 cmH2O to approximately 5 cmH2O, or approximately 3 cmH2O to approximately 5 cmH2O, or approximately 3 cmH2O, or approximately 4 cmH2O, or approximately 5 cmH2O.

[0134] In the connected state, the flow resistance of the kit at a flow rate of 150 LPM is approximately 5 cmH2O to approximately 22 cmH2O, or approximately 8 cmH2O to approximately 20 cmH2O, or approximately 10 cmH2O to approximately 18 cmH2O, or approximately 12 cmH2O to approximately 16 cmH2O, or approximately 12 cmH2O, or approximately 13 cmH2O, or approximately 14 cmH2O, or approximately 15 cmH2O.

[0135] As used in this specification, the term "axis" refers to an axis of rotation about which a line or a plane can be rotated to form a symmetrical shape. For example, rotating a line about an axis of rotation will form a curved surface, while rotating a plane about an axis of rotation will form a solid.

[0136] As used in this article, the term “and / or” means “and” or “or”, or both.

[0137] In this text, a noun followed by "(s)" indicates the plural and / or singular form of the noun.

[0138] For the purposes of this specification, the term "plastic" should be interpreted as a general term for a variety of synthetic or semi-synthetic polymeric products, typically composed of hydrocarbon-based polymers.

[0139] For the purposes of this specification, when method steps are described in sequence, that sequence does not necessarily mean that the steps must be performed in that chronological order, unless there is no other logical way to interpret the sequence.

[0140] As used in this specification and claims, the term "comprising" means "consisting of at least a portion of...". In interpreting each statement in this specification that includes the term "comprising", other features may also be present besides those introduced by the term. The related terms "comprising" and "having" should be interpreted in the same manner.

[0141] This invention can also be broadly understood to include all components, elements, and features mentioned or indicated in this specification, whether individually or collectively, and any or all combinations of any two or more of said components, elements, or features. Furthermore, if a known equivalent exists in the technical field to which this invention pertains for a particular component mentioned herein, such known equivalent should be considered incorporated herein as if listed separately.

[0142] For those skilled in the art, numerous variations in the construction, various embodiments, and applications of this invention will be apparent without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. The disclosures and descriptions herein are illustrative only and are not intended to constitute any limitation.

[0143] Other aspects of the invention will become apparent from the following description, which is given by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0144] Preferred embodiments of the invention will be described by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein: Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an exemplary respiratory therapy system is shown.

[0145] Figure 2 A block diagram of an exemplary control system is shown.

[0146] Figures 3 to 7 Various views of the respiratory assist device are shown.

[0147] Figure 8 An exemplary respiratory system, including a respiratory assist device, is illustrated schematically.

[0148] Figure 9 and Figure 10 An exemplary respiratory humidifier as a respiratory assist device is shown.

[0149] Figure 11 An exemplary surgical system is shown.

[0150] Figure 12 and Figure 13 The diagram shows views of the adapter, filter, and humidification chamber.

[0151] Figure 14 An exploded view of the adapter and filter is shown.

[0152] Figure 15 and Figure 16 A view of the adapter is shown.

[0153] Figure 17 and Figure 18 A view of the filter is shown.

[0154] Figure 19 A cross-section of the filter is shown.

[0155] Figure 20 The filter medium is shown.

[0156] Figure 21 An exploded view of the adapter and filter is shown.

[0157] Figure 22 The filter medium is shown.

[0158] Figures 23 to 26 The view shows the adapter and filter.

[0159] Figure 27The filter, adapter, and humidification chamber with a flow generator shield are shown.

[0160] Figure 28 The view shows the adapter and filter.

[0161] Figure 29 and Figure 30 A view of the adapter is shown.

[0162] Figure 31 It shows Figure 29 A cross-sectional view of the adapter.

[0163] Figure 32 and Figure 33 A view of the adapter is shown.

[0164] Figure 34 and Figure 35 A view of the adapter is shown.

[0165] Figure 36 The diagram shows views of the adapter, filter, and humidification chamber.

[0166] Figures 37 to 39 A view of the adapter is shown.

[0167] Figure 40 A view of the filter is shown.

[0168] Figure 41 and Figure 42 A cross-sectional view of the filter and adapter is shown.

[0169] Figure 43 and Figure 44 The view shows the filters and adapters.

[0170] Figure 45 A view of the adapter is shown.

[0171] Figure 46 and Figure 47 A view of the filter is shown.

[0172] Figure 48 A cross-section of the filter is shown.

[0173] Figures 49 to 51 A view of the filter is shown.

[0174] Figure 52 A cross-section of the filter is shown.

[0175] Figure 53 The filter medium is shown.

[0176] Figure 54 A schematic diagram of a device with a filter and an optional atomizer adapter is shown.

[0177] Figure 55 and Figure 56 The device is shown with a filter, conduit, and adapter.

[0178] Figure 57 and Figure 57A The adapter, filter, and conduit are shown, in which Figure 57A Optional atomizer adapters are shown.

[0179] Figure 58 An example of an adapter is shown.

[0180] Figure 59 and Figure 60 The patient-side connector is shown.

[0181] Figure 61 The device end connector is shown.

[0182] Figure 62 The cross-section of the tube is shown.

[0183] Figure 63 A view of the tube is shown.

[0184] Figure 64 and Figure 65 The cross-section of the tube is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0185] Although certain examples are described below, those skilled in the art will understand that the scope of this disclosure extends beyond the specific examples and / or uses disclosed herein and their obvious modifications and equivalents. Therefore, the scope of the disclosure herein should not be limited to any particular examples described below.

[0186] A respiratory support device (referred to herein as a device) can provide a user with a variety of different types of treatment. These treatments may include flow-based treatments (e.g., high-flow treatments) and pressure-based treatments (e.g., continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) and bilevel pressure treatments).

[0187] Flow-based therapy may also include one or more of the following: low-flow therapy, supplemental oxygen therapy.

[0188] Furthermore, in a clinical setting, this respiratory support device can be reused among multiple patients. During treatment, each patient may receive multiple different treatments. Therefore, the respiratory support device needs to be able to be safely reused for different patients and is suitable for multiple treatments or multiple treatment modalities for the same patient.

[0189] One approach is to sterilize the device when it is used on or transferred to a new patient. However, this can mean the device is unusable during sterilization, resulting in increased "downtime." In some cases, such as hospital emergency rooms, device downtime can lead to delays in the treatment of emergency patients, which is highly undesirable. Another approach is to prevent contamination of the device from the outset (e.g., by viruses, bacteria, etc.), thus eliminating the need for sterilization between each patient.

[0190] In some cases, patients may require multiple treatments. For example, a patient receiving high-flow therapy may need to transition to pressure therapy. In another case, a patient receiving pressure therapy may be ready to transition to flow therapy, so the clinician may switch them from pressure therapy to flow therapy.

[0191] Flow therapy via an unsealed patient interface can typically reduce the risk of patient "backflow" into the ventilator. In some examples, backflow and / or back pressure can be detected by sensors within the flow generator, for example, to determine system status such as tubing disconnection, blockage, etc.

[0192] Pressure therapy is typically administered through a largely sealed interface. In some examples, the backflow and / or back pressure generated by the patient can be detected by sensors within the flow generator and used to determine the patient's respiratory phase.

[0193] Recirculation can carry degradation products or pollutants.

[0194] One way to reduce internal contamination of the device is to install a one-way valve or check valve at the device outlet to prevent gases (such as a patient's exhaled air) from flowing into the device through the flow generator outlet. One-way valves can be used in flow therapy with unsealed patient interfaces. For example, when the patient interface is a nasal interface, the patient can exhale smoothly through the gap between the interface structure and the nostril wall, or exhale through the mouth. This means that the patient's exhaled air (which can carry contaminants) is likely to be expelled from the system. However, one-way valves may not be suitable for pressure-based therapy. In pressure-based therapy, the system is sealed, so exhaled air can only flow in two directions: either into the atmosphere through any vent on the sealed interface, or back into the device through a flow path (such as a duct, humidification chamber, etc., which will be described in detail below). Furthermore, at certain stages of the patient's breathing (such as during exhalation), the airflow from the flow generator of the breathing assist device may be insufficient to keep the valve open, which can result in the inability to provide airflow and / or pressure to the patient. For example, the pressure level during expiration (such as positive airway pressure during the expiratory phase in bilevel pressure therapy) can have a low flow rate that is below the threshold for forced valve opening.

[0195] Another way to reduce the possibility of internal contamination of the device is to place a filter in the flow path between the patient interface and the supply conduit, which connects the device to the patient interface to deliver airflow from the device to the patient interface. Placing a filter between the patient interface and the supply conduit means that the filter can absorb water vapor from the humidifying airflow, which can cause the filter material to become wet. The filter media can be damaged by moisture and / or its filtration efficiency can decrease. In some cases, a damp filter media can accelerate bacterial growth.

[0196] The nebulizer can be provided as part of the system, for example, connected via a port on the humidification chamber, a port on the supply tubing, or a port on the respiratory assist device. This port can be configured to accommodate the nebulizer directly or via an adapter. In existing systems, the filter may be located between the patient interface and the supply tubing, meaning that a large amount of atomized particles from the nebulizer (added to the airflow before the filter) can be filtered out or blocked, preventing them from reaching the patient—this can affect drug delivery. Furthermore, it may be impossible to accurately estimate the dosage of medication delivered to the patient by the nebulizer because it is unclear how much medication is filtered out.

[0197] Furthermore, placing the filter between the patient interface and the supply catheter means that a larger filter can be placed closer to the patient. Adding a heavier component near the patient can cause inconvenience, discomfort, and / or lead to patient interface fit problems, such as exerting a downward drag force on the patient interface.

[0198] In some examples, the arrangement of the patient interface, filter, catheter connector, and / or nebulizer can cause forces applied to that component to be transmitted to the patient interface (e.g., if they are rigidly connected together). This can cause patient discomfort and / or poor sealing of the patient interface.

[0199] Finally, requiring a separate filter connection between the patient interface and the supply catheter can mean that it is easily overlooked and unintentionally not installed when the patient is using the device, or even installed incorrectly (for example, if the filter is designed to be installed in a certain direction, it may be installed in the opposite direction).

[0200] This disclosure provides a filter located between the device and the patient, specifically between the device and the humidification chamber. This filter helps prevent or reduce the possibility of contamination inside the device by blocking any contaminants from moving toward or entering the device. This filter can prevent or reduce the possibility of contamination inside the device without the need for a one-way valve or check valve. Therefore, the filter of this disclosure can successfully deliver low flow rates from the device to the patient, for example, it can achieve low flow rate delivery during the expiratory phase of bilevel pressure therapy. The filter of this disclosure also allows gas flow toward the device, for example, a reverse airflow generated during the expiratory phase of bilevel pressure therapy.

[0201] By placing the filter between the flow generator and the humidification chamber, the flow path between the filter media (the material that constitutes the filter and filters the gas flowing through it) and the patient can be adjusted according to the patient's specific needs, while reducing patient contamination of the device's flow path. As used herein, "device flow path" should be understood to include the flow path upstream of the flow generator outlet and located inside the device. When switching between different patients using a respiratory support device, the humidification chamber and any additional flow path components from the humidification chamber to the patient (e.g., supply tubing and patient interface) can be replaced without sterilizing the device.

[0202] Even if the user decides to disinfect the device between different patients, the presence of the filter reduces the risk of device contamination, and the disinfection process can be faster or completed in a simpler way.

[0203] As will be described in more detail below, the filter can be located upstream of the gas inlet of the humidification chamber (e.g., between the device and the humidification chamber—at which humidity is added to the airflow). Because the filter is upstream of where humidity is added to the airflow, this reduces the risk of humid gas interacting with the filter (e.g., water vapor being trapped and condensing, causing the filter to become wetted with liquid water). If the filter gradually becomes saturated with water and other solid or liquid particles (i.e., contaminants), its performance will deteriorate. Therefore, keeping the filter as dry as possible allows it to operate effectively for a longer period before needing replacement. Keeping the filter dry / drier also helps maintain its efficiency. Keeping the filter dry / drier also helps reduce the pressure drop across the filter, which can increase when the filter becomes wet. The efficiency of a filter can be related to the percentage of particles of a specific size it can trap. As described above, the filter also helps reduce or prevent water vapor from flowing back into the device, where it could otherwise condense into liquid water and damage internal components.

[0204] Placing a filter upstream of the nebulized particle source or before the nebulized particle introduction point (e.g., through a port on the humidification chamber, a port on the supply catheter, or a port on the device) can improve the delivery efficiency of the nebulized substance (e.g., a drug), or at least prevent it from being reduced by the filter. Therefore, the filter placement defined in this disclosure facilitates the delivery of nebulized particles to the patient, rather than their removal by the filter.

[0205] In addition, the filter disclosed herein can reduce the likelihood of contaminants present in the airflow from the device reaching the patient's airway.

[0206] The filter disclosed herein can be removed and replaced without disassembling the adapter 126 and / or the humidification chamber 120.

[0207] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an exemplary respiratory therapy system 1 is provided. This respiratory therapy system 1 may include at least a respiratory assist device 10, a supply catheter 20, and a patient interface 30. Other modules or components may also be included in the system. Hereinafter, a device including a flow generator 11 and a humidifier 12 will be referred to as a "respiratory assist device," and a system including a flow generator 11, a humidifier 12, a supply catheter 20, and a patient interface 30 will be referred to as a "respiratory therapy system," but these terms should not be considered limiting. In some cases, the respiratory therapy system 1 may not include the patient interface 30.

[0208] Now refer to Figure 1-7 Describe an exemplary respiratory assist device.

[0209] The respiratory assist device 10 can be configured or operated to provide respiratory therapy via the supply catheter 20 and the patient interface 30.

[0210] The respiratory therapy can be high-flow therapy (HFT). An exemplary patient interface is a nasal cannula with a non-sealed nasal plug, in which case the provided high-flow therapy (HFT) can be nasal high-flow therapy (NHF).

[0211] It should be understood that the components, methods, and processes described herein can be applied to other respiratory assist devices and / or other operating and / or treatment modes provided by such devices. For example, the respiratory assist device 10 can be additionally or alternatively configured or operated to provide pressure-based treatments, such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy and / or bilevel positive airway pressure (BAP) therapy. When providing such therapy, the patient interface used can be a sealed interface, such as a nasal pillow, nasal mask, subnasal mask, or full-face mask.

[0212] Gas flow path The respiratory assist device 10 can be an integrated device that houses multiple key components within a single housing; or it can be based on an arrangement of discrete components, in which the key components are separate but interconnected.

[0213] refer to Figure 1 The respiratory support device 10 includes at least a flow generator 11 and a humidifier 12. (Reference) Figure 3-7 In some configurations, the flow generator 11 and humidifier 12 are part of the integrated respiratory assist device 10, sharing a common housing 16. In other configurations, the respiratory assist device 10 can be a modular arrangement of discrete components, where the flow generator 11 and humidifier 12 are separate modules that can be connected together.

[0214] The breathing assist device 10 includes an inlet module 110 for supplying one or more gases, such as air, oxygen (O2), a mixture of air and oxygen, or a mixture of air and / or oxygen with one or more other supplementary gases, to a flow generator 11. The inlet module 110 may include one or more inlets for receiving (or inhaling) ambient air and / or pressurized air, oxygen, and / or other gas streams. For example, see reference... Figure 1 In some embodiments, the inlet module 110 may include an ambient air inlet 1101, a low-pressure gas inlet 1102, and / or a high-pressure gas inlet 1103. In other embodiments, more or fewer inlets may be provided. Some or all of the inlets may include connectors (e.g., ports, terminals, couplers, etc.) for establishing a fluid / pneumatic connection with the gas source. Depending on the specific context, the inlet module 110 may be considered as part of the flow generator 11, part of the breathing assist device 10, or it may be a separate modular component.

[0215] refer to Figure 1 One or more filters may be provided as part of the inlet module 110 at or immediately downstream of the ambient air inlet 1101, low-pressure gas inlet 1102, and / or high-pressure gas inlet 1103. A single filter 1106 may be provided at the inlet of the blower 1111 to filter particulate matter and pathogens carried therein before the incoming gas reaches the blower 1111. Alternatively, a separate filter may be provided at each inlet or air inlet 1101, 1102, 1103. In one exemplary embodiment, in addition to the filters 1106 downstream of the proportional valve 1105 and at one or more inlets of the blower 1111, a filter 1104 is also provided between the high-pressure gas inlet 1103 and the proportional valve 1105 or upstream of it.

[0216] Based on the above description and depending on the specific configuration (some components may be optional), the respiratory therapy system 1 may include a combination selected from the following components or modules: Flow generator 11 includes inlet module 110 and blower / sensor module 111. Inlet module 100 includes one or more gas source inlets and their respective connectors (if applicable), filter 1106, Check valve 112, Humidifier 12 for humidifying the gas flow, Supply catheter 20, and / or Patient interface 30.

[0217] The respiratory therapy system 1 and the respiratory assist device 10 will be described in more detail below.

[0218] Gas sources connected to inlet module 110 or the inlet of inlet module 110 may include: a wall-mounted (“pipe”) supply of supplemental gas (e.g., oxygen) or a mixture of gases, a tank for said supplemental gas, and / or a gas flow source, such as an oxygen generator. The aforementioned gas sources may provide the corresponding gas at low or high pressure and / or low or high flow rates. In some configurations, one or more gas sources may include shut-off valves and / or regulators or other flow or pressure control devices that can be manually adjusted by the user. For example, one of the gas sources may be a high-pressure gas cylinder connected to high-pressure gas inlet 1103 via a regulator and shut-off valve.

[0219] The flow generator 11 includes a blower / sensor module 111, which includes at least one blower 1111 for controlling the airflow delivered to the patient through the supply conduit 20 and the patient interface 30. The blower 1111 can be a centrifugal blower, including at least one motor and an impeller or fan driven by the motor. Other types of blowers, such as axial flow blowers, can also be used. The flow rate and / or pressure of the gas output from the flow generator 11 can be controlled by changing the output of the blower 1111, for example, by changing the speed of the motor driving the impeller or fan. The flow generator can be configured to provide a high-velocity gas flow. Examples of high-velocity flow will be provided later.

[0220] The blower / sensor module 111 may also include a sensor module 1112. (See reference) Figure 1 In some embodiments, the sensor module 1112 may be located "behind" or downstream of the blower 1111 (i.e., the inlet of the sensor module 1112 may be fluidly / pneumatically connected to the outlet of the blower 1111), but in other embodiments, it may be located upstream of the blower. The sensor module 1112 may be located before the humidifier 12.

[0221] One or more sensors (e.g., Hall effect sensors) can be used to measure the motor speed of a blower motor.

[0222] Compared to systems that place sensors upstream of the blower and / or mixer, placing sensors (e.g., flow rate, pressure, oxygen concentration, and / or other types of sensors in sensor module 1112) downstream of the blower 1111 can improve measurement accuracy, such as measuring the gas concentration fraction including oxygen concentration. Positioning these sensors further downstream in the flow path, after the gas flow has undergone more thorough mixing (and thus more homogeneity), can produce more consistent and / or repeatable measurement results.

[0223] In some embodiments of the respiratory assist device 10, a check valve (NRV) 112 may be located downstream of the blower 1111 or the blower / sensor module 111, but before the inlet of the flow generator outlet 113 and / or the humidification chamber 120. The check valve 112 may be located inside the flow generator outlet 113. The check valve 112 serves to prevent any gas, aerosol, and / or liquid from flowing back into the flow generator 11 through the humidifier 12. During respiratory therapy, a portion of the airflow exhaled by the patient may flow down the supply conduit 20, back into the humidifier 12, and may reach the flow generator or displace other gases that subsequently enter the humidifier and / or flow generator; these airflows may carry pathogens, thus contaminating the flow generator. Furthermore, these airflows may carry significant amounts of water vapor (especially if flowing back through the humidifier 12), which, if allowed, could damage the internal hardware of the flow generator over time. Therefore, a check valve may be included in the respiratory assist device.

[0224] Patient Interface Patient interface 30 can be an unsealed interface, such as a nasal cannula. The term "unsealed," when referring to a patient breathing interface, can be defined as an interface element that does not completely isolate the user's airway from the external environment. For example, in the context of nasal cannula intubation, an unsealed nasal cannula may ideally only obstruct 80% or less of the user's nostrils. Conversely, a sealed patient breathing interface can be a full-face or subnasal mask, or a nasal mask and nasal pillow, which completely isolates the patient's nostrils from the external environment; while an unsealed nasal cannula allows for some degree of gas flow between the external environment and the nasal cavity. Unsealed patient interfaces help prevent barotrauma effects (e.g., damage to the airway and / or lung tissue due to pressure differences relative to standard atmospheric pressure).

[0225] The patient breathing interface 30 may also be a tracheostomy interface or any other suitable type of patient interface, depending on the type of treatment provided and / or the patient's needs.

[0226] A humidifier 12 is positioned between the flow generator 11 and the device outlet 13 and / or supply conduit 20 to humidify the airflow output from the flow generator 11. Humidification is particularly important when providing high-flow-rate therapy (where high-velocity dry gas is delivered to the patient's airway) as it improves tolerability and comfort. Increasing the humidity of the gas to or near the natural level in a healthy patient's airway (e.g., a dew point of 37°C) helps maintain airway condition and reduces or prevents dryness or other effects that could lead to discomfort and adverse health consequences. In some configurations, the humidifier 12 may be optional, in which case the respiratory assist device 10 may provide the patient with unhumidified gas generated by the flow generator 11.

[0227] Humidifier 12 can be a heated humidifier, wherein the humidifier includes at least one heating element. Humidifier 12 can also be a heated bypass humidifier. A heated bypass humidifier typically includes at least a heating plate 121, a heating element 122 arranged and configured for heating the heating plate 121, and a humidification chamber 120 including a heat-conducting base that is in close contact with the heating plate 121 during use. The humidification chamber 120 will be at least partially filled with water during use; the heat-conducting base will transfer heat from the heating plate to the water, thereby causing controlled evaporation of the water to increase the humidity of the gas stream flowing through the chamber.

[0228] sensor Various sensors configured to detect or measure the characteristics of the respiratory therapy system 1 and / or airflow can be arranged in one or more locations within the system.

[0229] In an exemplary embodiment of the respiratory therapy system 1, at least the following sensors may be provided: Sensor 1107 (e.g., pressure, flow, temperature and / or humidity (relative and / or absolute) sensor) at ambient air inlet 1101. A sensor 1108 (e.g., a pressure sensor and / or a flow sensor) is located at or downstream of the high-pressure gas inlet 1103. Sensor 1109 (e.g., pressure sensor and / or flow sensor) downstream of proportional valve 1105. The sensor 1113 at the blower 1111 may be located near the stator winding of the motor driving the blower (e.g., a temperature sensor and / or a motor speed sensor). A sensor 123 (e.g., a temperature sensor) is located at or near the heating element 122 or the heating plate 121. Sensor 130 (e.g., temperature sensor) downstream of device outlet 13. Sensor 21 (e.g., temperature sensor) is supplied to the patient end of catheter 20. Sensors 1107, 1108, 1109, 1113, 123, 130 and / or 21 may include multiple sensors. These multiple sensors may be part of a single package, stand-alone discrete sensors, or a combination of integrated sensor modules and discrete components.

[0230] Additional sensors may be incorporated into or incorporated into sensor module 1112. Sensor module 1112 may be configured and arranged to measure characteristics of the gas flow from blower 1111 through flow generator outlet 113 and beyond. For example, the sensor module may include one or more sensors for detecting gas flow velocity, oxygen concentration fraction (FdO2), pressure, temperature, and / or humidity.

[0231] In addition to the sensors described above, various other sensors can be incorporated into the respiratory therapy system 1. These sensors can be configured to detect, measure, and / or determine flow rate, pressure, temperature, humidity (e.g., relative and / or absolute humidity), oxygen concentration / fraction, and / or motor speed. Other sensors can be positioned throughout the system and / or on, near, or around the patient—for example, a pulse oximeter sensor can be attached to the patient and connected to the controller 14 via a pulse oximeter. Alternatively, or additionally, sensors capable of deriving the aforementioned parameters can also be used.

[0232] controller As described above, some or all of the sensors listed above can be electrically and / or communicatively connected to controller 14. The connection can be direct or indirect—for example, via signal conditioning circuitry, drive circuitry, another controller, and / or other types of circuitry. The connection can be wired or wireless.

[0233] Controller 14 may be a microprocessor, microcontroller, programmable logic device (e.g., CPLD or FPGA), digital signal processor (DSP), application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or other suitable form of device, and is not necessarily implemented in a single monolithic integrated circuit (IC), but may include additional discrete electrical and / or electronic components. Controller 14 may include a single device or multiple devices and components. For example, controller 14 may include multiple microprocessors or microcontrollers. In general, those skilled in the art will understand that various types of devices and components can be employed as controllers (such as controller 14) or used in controllers.

[0234] The controller may include programming instructions for detecting input conditions and controlling output conditions. These programming instructions may be stored in the memory of the controller 14 or in memory associated with the controller 14. The programming instructions may correspond to the methods, procedures, and functions described herein. The programming instructions may be executed by one or more processors of the controller 14. The programming instructions may be implemented using C, C++, Java, or any other suitable programming language or a combination thereof. Some or all of the programming instructions may be implemented using dedicated circuitry, such as ASICs and FPGAs.

[0235] In some configurations, the outputs of at least some or all of the aforementioned sensors are sent to controller 14 to assist in controlling the respiratory system 1 and its constituent components or modules (e.g., blower 1111, heating element 122, supply tubing 20, display and input / output (I / O) 142, and other modules). Controller 14 may be connected to at least one or more of the following components: proportional valve 1105, blower 1111, humidifier heating element 122, and / or heated breathing tubing of supply tubing 20. In some configurations, controller 14 controls at least these and other parts of the respiratory system 1, as described herein. The term "control" as used herein may refer to direct control of components (i.e., signals output by controller 14) or control via signal conditioning circuitry, driver / drive circuitry (e.g., MOSFET gate driver or motor driver).

[0236] In some examples, the controller may operate blower 1111 and / or proportional valve 1105 to provide a gas flow at a desired rate. The controller 14 may also receive user input from the user interface portion of the display and input / output 142. User input may include target flow rate, pressure, oxygen concentration (i.e., FdO2 (delivered oxygen concentration) or FiO2 (inhaled oxygen concentration)), treatment mode (high-flow therapy, continuous positive airway pressure, etc.), alarm thresholds, and / or other parameters. The user may be a patient, healthcare professional, or other personnel.

[0237] The controller 14 can output information to a display and input / output peripherals 142. The display and input / output peripherals 142 can display warnings and / or other alarms. The display and input / output peripherals 142 can be configured to display the characteristics of the sensed gas in real time or otherwise. The controller 14 can also receive user input through a user interface portion of the display and input / output peripherals 142. The user interface may include virtual and / or physical buttons and / or knobs. The user interface may include a touchscreen.

[0238] Wireless communication The respiratory assist device 10 may include one or more communication modules 141 capable of communicating data with one or more external devices or servers via a data or communication link or data network, whether wired, wireless, or a combination of both. For example, in one configuration, the respiratory assist device 10 may include a wireless data transmitter, receiver, and / or transceiver, enabling the controller 14 to wirelessly send and receive data signals with external devices (including sensors (e.g., sensors attached to the patient), patient monitoring systems, mobile phones, or other devices) and / or remote servers. In one example, one or more communication modules 141 may include cellular (e.g., 3G, 4G, and / or 5G), Bluetooth, and / or Wi-Fi modules. One or more communication modules 141 may include a single module configured to communicate using cellular, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi technologies and protocols.

[0239] control system Figure 2 A block diagram 300 of an example control system 310 is shown (this control system may be implemented on, by, or at least partially on or by controller 14 (and any other controllers or circuits described herein)). This system is capable of detecting patient and / or system conditions and controlling the operation of respiratory therapy system 1 (including any gas source). Control system 310 may determine and generate output control signals 322-326 based on one or more received inputs 311-321. Inputs 311-321 may correspond to sensor measurements and / or user inputs automatically received by controller 14. Control system 310 may receive, but is not limited to: pressure sensor input 311, temperature sensor input 312, flow rate sensor input 313, motor speed sensor input 314, gas fraction / concentration sensor input 315, humidity sensor input 316, pulse oximetry sensor input 317 (e.g., blood oxygen saturation and / or heart rate), stored or user parameter inputs 318, duty cycle or pulse width modulation input 319, voltage input 320, and current input 321.

[0240] Respiratory Assist Device Housing refer to Figures 3 to 7 The breathing assist device 10 may include a main housing 16. The housing 16 may accommodate an inlet module 110, a blower / sensor module 111, and the heating plate 121 and heating element 122 of the humidifier 12. A controller 14, a communication module 141, a display and input / output 142, and peripheral ports 143 may also be disposed inside or on top of the main housing 16. As described above, in some embodiments, the humidifier 12 may be a separate module with its own housing and therefore not included within the main housing 16 of the breathing assist device 10.

[0241] The main housing 16 includes an upper main housing chassis 161 and a lower main housing chassis 162. The upper main housing chassis 161 has peripheral sidewalls 1611. These peripheral sidewalls define a humidifier or humidification chamber slot, compartment, or docking seat 1612 for accommodating a removable humidification chamber 120. The removable humidification chamber 120 contains a suitable liquid, such as water, for humidifying gases that can be delivered to a patient. The bottom portion of the humidification chamber docking seat 1613 (not shown) may have a recess for accommodating a heating device, such as a heating plate 121 or other suitable heating device, to heat the liquid within the humidification chamber 120 during humidification.

[0242] The respiratory assist device 10 includes a configuration that enables a blower to deliver air, oxygen (or other alternative assist gas), or a suitable mixture thereof, to a humidification chamber 120 for delivery to a patient. This configuration may include an air inlet 1101 located on a peripheral sidewall 1611 of the lower chassis 162 of the housing 16. Alternatively, the air inlet 1101 may be located on a bottom sidewall 1615 of the housing 16.

[0243] A filter may be disposed within the main housing, adjacent to air inlet 1101 and in communication with blower 1111, to deliver filtered air and / or oxygen to blower 1111 via an inlet port on motor / sensor module 111. The filter housing may include filter 1106 configured to remove particulate matter (e.g., dust) and / or pathogens (e.g., viruses or bacteria) from the gas stream. The device 10 may include a separate oxygen inlet port 1103 located near one side or rear of housing 16 for receiving oxygen from an oxygen source (e.g., an oxygen cylinder or tubular oxygen source). This oxygen inlet port 1103 may be in fluid communication with valve 1105. Valve 1105 is preferably a solenoid valve capable of electronically controlling the amount of oxygen added to the airflow supplied to humidification chamber 120.

[0244] refer to Figure 3-5 The device outlet port 13 may include a detachably connected L-shaped elbow 131. This detachable elbow 131 may include a patient outlet port 1311 for connecting the supply catheter 20 to deliver airflow to the patient interface. The inlet of the detachable elbow 131 may extend at least generally along the longitudinal axis 60, while the outlet of the detachable elbow 131 (i.e., the patient outlet port 1311) may extend at least generally along the vertical axis 62. In other words, the patient outlet port 1311 may extend upward from the upper chassis 161 of the main housing 16 of the respiratory assist device 10.

[0245] The flow generator outlet port 113, the gas inlet and gas outlet ports 124, 125 (or the inlet and outlet ports of the adapter 126) of the humidifier 12, the device outlet port 13, and the patient outlet port 1311 may each be equipped with soft seals, such as O-ring seals or T-seals, to provide a sealed gas passage between the flow generator 11, the humidification chamber 120, and the supply catheter 20.

[0246] The main housing upper chassis 161 may include a protective cover portion 1614 (hereinafter referred to as the "protective cover"). Reference Figure 3-4 The cover 1614 can protrude outward from the chassis 161 on the main housing so as to at least partially cover the flow generator outlet 113 and the inlet of the elbow 131.

[0247] The main housing chassis 161 may further include the aforementioned display and input / output 142. The display and input / output 142 may include a user interface, which may include a display screen and input devices such as mechanical buttons or knobs, a touchscreen (e.g., a touch-sensitive LCD or LED screen), a combination of a touchscreen and mechanical buttons or knobs, or similar devices. In one configuration, the user interface of the display and input / output 142 may include a separate display screen and / or touchscreen, which is not permanently integrated into the respiratory assist device housing 16 but can communicate with the device via wired or wireless means. The respiratory assist device 10 may include docking elements for securing the separate display screen.

[0248] refer to Figure 3-5 The breathing assist device 10 may include at least a display screen 1420, which may be part of a display and input / output 142 (i.e., it may be the aforementioned display screen or touchscreen). Reference Figure 3-5 The display screen 1420 may protrude from the housing 16, for example, at an angle. The angle of the display screen relative to the plane defined by the surface of the chassis 161 on the main housing can help improve the user's visibility of the screen and / or ease of use. For example, an angled display screen is easier to view from a distance compared to a completely flat screen disposed within the chassis 161 on the main housing.

[0249] humidify Continue to refer to Figure 1 One end of the supply catheter 20 may be connected to the device outlet 13 formed on or as part of the housing 16 of the respiratory assist device 10, and the other end is connected to the patient interface 30, such as an unsealed interface (e.g., an unsealed nasal cannula).

[0250] As previously described, the gas flow generated by the flow generator 11 can be humidified before being delivered to the patient via the supply conduit 20 and the patient breathing interface 30. The controller 14 can control the flow generator 11 to generate a gas flow with a desired flow rate, and / or control one or more valves (e.g., proportional valve 1105) to control the mixing of air and oxygen and / or other supplementary gases by the blower 1111. The controller 14 can control the heating element 122 (if present) inside or associated with the humidifier 12 to heat the gas flow to a desired temperature, thereby achieving the temperature and / or humidity level required for delivery to the patient. The supply conduit 20 can be a heated conduit, comprising one or more conductors (i.e., heating elements) embedded within the conduit wall, through which an electric current can be passed to heat the internal passages of the conduit. Alternatively, the heating element can be attached to the inner surface of the supply conduit 20 or even suspended inside the conduit. The power supplied to the heating element can be controlled by the controller 14.

[0251] The humidifier 12 of the device is configured to increase the humidity of the gas flow by introducing water vapor into the gas flowing through the humidification chamber 120. Various humidifier configurations are possible. In one configuration, the humidifier 12 may include a removable humidification chamber 120 configured to contain one or more liquids. For example, the humidifier 12 may be configured to allow the humidification chamber 120 to be partially or completely removed or disconnected from the flow path and / or the breathing aid 10. The humidification chamber can be removed for refilling, cleaning, replacement, and / or maintenance. (Refer to at least...) Figure 3-5 In one configuration, the humidification chamber may be accommodated and held by the docking seat, compartment or slot 1612 of the breathing assist device 10, or otherwise connected to or inside the housing 16 of the breathing assist device 10.

[0252] Continue to refer to at least Figure 3-5 The humidifier 12's humidification chamber 120 includes at least one gas inlet 124 and one gas outlet 125 to allow connection to the gas flow path of the breathing assist device 10, optionally via a gas adapter 126 connecting the flow generator outlet 113 to the humidifier gas inlet 121, and the humidifier gas outlet 124 to the device outlet 13. For example, airflow from the outlet 113 of the flow generator 11 enters the humidification chamber through its gas inlet and exits the humidification chamber through its gas outlet after being heated and / or humidified.

[0253] The humidification chamber 120 can be configured to contain a volume of liquid, typically water. During operation, the liquid in the humidification chamber is controllably heated by one or more heaters (e.g., heating plate 121) or heating elements (e.g., heating element 122 of heating plate 121) associated with the humidifier 12 to generate water vapor, thereby increasing the humidity of the gas flowing through the humidification chamber 120.

[0254] In one configuration, humidifier 12 is a heated bypass humidifier. In another configuration, the humidifier can be a non-heated (i.e., cold) bypass humidifier. In yet another configuration, the humidifier can be a non-bypass humidifier.

[0255] In some configurations, such as Figure 3 and Figure 10 As shown, the humidification chamber 120 can be inserted into the device and engages with one or more tracks 132 upon insertion. The tracks 132 facilitate guiding the humidification chamber 120 into the device 10 and also serve as guides when removing the humidification chamber 120 from the device 10. In some examples, the tracks are configured to engage with the base 801 of the humidification chamber 120.

[0256] High-flow therapy The respiratory assist device 10 can be a high-flow therapeutic device. High-flow therapeutic, as discussed herein, should be understood in its usual, general sense, as understood by those skilled in the art, typically refers to the delivery of a target flow rate of humidified respiratory gas through an intentionally unsealed or non-sealed patient interface, the flow rate of which is generally designed to meet or exceed the user's inspiratory needs. High-flow therapeutic is typically provided at a sufficiently high desired flow rate to meet or exceed the patient's inspiratory needs. Ideally, the flow rate provided should be sufficient to prevent the patient from entraining ambient gases during inhalation. Typical patient interfaces for high-flow therapeutic include, but are not limited to, unsealed nasal cannulas or endotracheal patient interfaces. Typical flow rates for adults are typically, but not limited to, from about 15 liters per minute to about 60 liters per minute or higher. Typical flow rates for pediatric users (such as newborns, infants, and children) are typically, but not limited to, from about 1 liter per minute per kilogram of user body weight to about 3 liters per minute per kilogram of user body weight or higher.

[0257] High-flow therapy may also selectively involve delivering a mixture of gases, including supplemental oxygen and / or therapeutic drugs.

[0258] High-flow therapy is commonly referred to by names such as high-flow nasal cannula (NHF), humidified high-flow nasal cannula (HHFNC), high-flow nasal oxygen therapy (HFNO), high-flow therapy (HFT), or high-flow tracheal cannula (THF). For example, in some configurations, for adult patients, "high-flow therapy" can refer to delivering gas to the patient at a flow rate greater than or equal to about 10 liters per minute (10 L / min), such as between about 10 L / min and about 100 L / min, or between about 15 L / min and about 95 L / min, or between about 20 L / min and about 90 L / min, or between about 25 L / min and about 85 L / min, or between about 30 L / min and about 80 L / min, or between about 35 L / min and about 75 L / min, or between about 40 L / min and about 70 L / min, or between about 45 L / min and about 65 L / min, or between about 50 L / min and about 60 L / min.

[0259] In some configurations, for neonatal, infant, or pediatric patients, "high-flow therapy" can refer to delivering gas to the patient at a flow rate greater than 1 L / min, for example, between about 1 L / min and about 25 L / min, or between about 2 L / min and about 25 L / min, or between about 2 L / min and about 5 L / min, or between about 5 L / min and about 25 L / min, or between about 5 L / min and about 10 L / min, or between about 10 L / min and about 25 L / min, or between about 10 L / min and about 20 L / min, or between about 10 L / min and about 15 L / min, or between about 20 L / min and about 25 L / min. High-flow therapy devices for adult, neonatal, infant, or pediatric patients can deliver gas to the patient at a flow rate between about 1 L / min and about 100 L / min, or at any of the above subranges.

[0260] High-flow-rate therapy effectively meets or exceeds a patient's inspiratory needs, improving oxygenation and / or reducing the work of breathing. Furthermore, it creates a flushing effect in the nasopharynx, flushing the anatomical dead space of the upper airway with a high-velocity gas flow. This flushing effect creates a reserve of fresh gas for each breath while minimizing the re-inhalation of carbon dioxide, nitrogen, etc. High-flow-rate therapy can also prolong the patient's expiratory time by providing pressure during expiration. This, in turn, reduces the patient's respiratory rate.

[0261] Non-invasive ventilation therapy The respiratory support device 10 may additionally or alternatively be a non-invasive ventilation therapy (NIV) device. Non-invasive ventilation therapy may include one or more of the following: continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), bilevel positive airway pressure, and bubble-type continuous positive airway pressure. The non-invasive ventilation therapy device may be configured to provide two positive pressure levels synchronized with breathing, i.e., increasing pressure during inspiration to provide respiratory support (IPAP) and decreasing pressure during expiration to reduce patient-perceived resistance (EPAP). In some examples, non-invasive ventilation therapy may include nasal intermittent positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV), synchronized nasal intermittent positive pressure ventilation (SNIPPV), neuromodulated non-invasive ventilation-assisted ventilation (NIV-NAVA) therapy, high-frequency oscillatory ventilation (HFOV) therapy, volume-restricted pressure control therapy, volume-controlled ventilation therapy, and / or resuscitation therapy.

[0262] Humidifier Figure 8 An example respiratory system 1, including a respiratory assist device 10, is shown schematically.

[0263] The respiratory assist device includes a flow generator 11 (e.g., a ventilator or blower) and a humidifier 12. In other examples, the respiratory assist device includes only the humidifier 12, or only the flow generator 11. It is understood that the respiratory assist device (e.g., as part of a respiratory system) may be configured to provide a form of respiratory therapy, such as high-flow therapy, or continuous, variable, or bilevel positive airway pressure ventilation, or another form of respiratory therapy.

[0264] The flow generator 11 can be connected to a gas source to receive airflow, or it can draw airflow from the surrounding environment. The airflow is then delivered from the flow generator 11 through a conduit 157 to a humidifier 12, which humidifies the gas. The flow generator 11 can be, for example, a ventilator or a blower. The flow generator 11 can be separate from the humidifier 12 (e.g., located in an optional interconnected separate housing), or it can be integrated with the humidifier 12 into a single housing.

[0265] The humidifier 12 is connected via port 111 to one end 109 of a supply catheter 20 (e.g., a supply tubing). The supply catheter 20 is connected to the patient 101 via a patient interface 30, optionally using a Y-connector 114. An optional expiratory catheter, such as expiratory catheter 117, is also connected to the patient interface 30 via the Y-connector 114. This expiratory catheter 117 is configured to expel exhaled air from the patient 101. Figure 8As shown, the expiratory tubing 117 delivers exhaled air from the patient 101 back to the flow generator 11. In another example, the supply tubing 20 can be directly connected to the patient interface 30 without the need for the Y-connector 114. In such embodiments, exhaled air can be directly released into the ambient environment without the need for an expiratory tubing.

[0266] The supply catheter 20 may include conductive elements, such as a heater and / or sensor element 145. Similarly, the exhalation catheter 117 may optionally include a heater and / or sensor element 147.

[0267] In addition, the Y-connector 114 and the patient interface 30 may optionally include heaters and / or sensor elements. As will be described in detail below, the heaters and / or sensor elements 145, 147 may be wires.

[0268] like Figure 8 In the illustrated respiratory system example, dry or relatively dry gas enters the flow generator 11 through a vent 119 (e.g., ambient air inlet 1101 described above). A blower 1111 draws in air or other gases through the vent 119, thereby generating an airflow into the flow generator 105. The blower 1111 may be, for example, a variable-speed fan, with an electronic controller 136 controlling the fan speed. In some embodiments, the electronic controller 136 may also be controlled by a second electronic controller 127, or vice versa.

[0269] The humidifier 12 may include a humidification chamber 120 containing a metered amount of water 134 or other suitable humidifying fluid. The humidification chamber 120 may be detachable from the humidifier 12. The humidification chamber 120 may include a highly thermally conductive base (e.g., an aluminum or steel base) that contacts or is associated with a heating plate 121 on the humidifier 12. Examples in this disclosure describe the heating plate as a heater of the humidifier and the heating wire as a heater of a conduit.

[0270] The humidifier 12 may also include an electronic control device. For example, in Figure 8 In this device, the humidifier 12 includes an electronic, analog, or digital controller 127. The controller 127 may be a microprocessor-based controller that executes computer software instructions stored in associated memory. Based on humidity, temperature, or other feedback values ​​provided through a user interface 133 and / or integrated sensors, the controller 127 can determine heat, flow rate, pressure, and / or other variables to deliver humidified gas to the patient (also known as the user) according to target operating parameters. The user interface 133 may be one or more hardware buttons and / or a display or touchscreen display. The respiratory assist device (e.g., the humidifier 12) may provide audio and / or visual feedback to the user.

[0271] Bidirectional arrow 128 indicates a communication connection between flow generator 11 and humidifier 12. This communication connection 128 enables information transmission between humidifier 12 and flow generator 11. Alternatively, the provided communication connection 128 may allow the transmission of one or more control signals. For example, the provided communication connection 128 may be located between humidifier controller 127 and flow generator controller 136. In some examples, the communication connection may be bidirectional, but in other examples, it may be unidirectional (from flow generator to humidifier, or from humidifier to flow generator). The communication connection may be wired or wireless.

[0272] Patient interface 30 can be a patient interface as described in more detail above.

[0273] Temperature sensor 135 may be embedded in or connected to the supply catheter 103 near the Y-connector 114, or directly connected to the Y-connector 114 or patient interface 30. Temperature sensor 135 monitors the airflow temperature near or at the patient interface 30. This temperature sensor may be a colorimetric sensor as described in more detail below.

[0274] Heated leads can be used to regulate the temperature of the patient interface 30, Y-connector 114, and / or supply catheter 20 to maintain the gas flow temperature above the saturation temperature (i.e., the dew point temperature of the gas flow), thereby reducing the possibility of unnecessary condensation and / or delivering gas at a temperature suitable for the patient. Figure 8 As shown, exhaled air can be selectively returned from the patient interface 30 to the flow generator 11 via the exhalation tube 117.

[0275] In some examples, the resistance of the heating wire may be from about 15 ohms to about 30 ohms, or from about 18 ohms to about 25 ohms, from about 20 ohms to about 24 ohms, or from about 20.5 ohms to about 23.5 ohms. The resistance of the heating wire can be measured at a nominal temperature (e.g., 19 degrees Celsius).

[0276] The power density of the supply conduit 20 may be about 5 watts / meter to about 80 watts / meter, or about 5 watts / meter to about 60 watts / meter, or about 10 watts / meter to about 50 watts / meter, or about 20 watts / meter to about 40 watts / meter, or about 30 watts / meter to about 40 watts / meter, or about 35 watts / meter to about 40 watts / meter.

[0277] Figure 8 The respiratory system 1 can also provide the patient with supplemental oxygen (O2) or a gas with an oxygen (O2) fraction higher than that of atmospheric air through ports 149 (e.g., low-pressure gas inlet 1102 and / or high-pressure gas inlet 1103). Figure 8The respiratory system 1 can receive oxygen from a remote source, and / or receive oxygen by mixing atmospheric air with input oxygen from the remote source. The mixing of atmospheric air with input oxygen can be achieved by a Venturi element or similar inlet structure located in the flow generator 11 or humidifier 12.

[0278] Figure 9 and Figure 10 An exemplary respiratory humidifier as a respiratory assistance device is shown. It can be understood that... Figure 9 and Figure 10 Humidifier and Figure 8 The humidifier 12 in the system shown is similar.

[0279] Figure 9 and Figure 10 The humidifier shown includes a heater base 151 with a heating plate 121, a user interface 154 and a controller 127; a removable and replaceable humidification chamber 129; and a removable and / or replaceable cylinder 155. Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the supply conduit 20 can be connected to the cylinder 155 via connector 161. The humidification chamber 129 is housed in the heater base 151, and when housed in the heater base 151, the humidification chamber 129 is in thermal contact with the heating plate 121. In some examples, the cylinder 155 may also be integrated with or permanently connected to the heater base, rather than being removable and replaceable.

[0280] The cylinder 155 houses electronic components and one or more sensors 158 configured to detect one or more properties of the gas flowing through the humidification chamber 153 during use. The sensors may be mounted on probes protruding from the cylinder 155, which pass through holes in the inlet or outlet of the humidification chamber 153 during use. The cylinder 155 also includes a connector that forms an electrical connection with the heater base 151 for data communication (e.g., serial data communication) with a controller.

[0281] In use, the inlet of catheter 157 receives an airflow from a gas source pneumatically connected to the inlet of humidification chamber 129, while the supply catheter 20, including connector 161, is electrically connected to cylinder 155 and pneumatically connected to the outlet of humidification chamber 153 to deliver humidified airflow to the patient. Connector 161 forms a releasable and lockable connection with humidification chamber 129 and / or cylinder 155 and may include a release button 163.

[0282] The electrical connection between the cylinder and the conduit 20 allows for the transmission of sensing signals between the sensor and the device in the conduit, and / or the establishment of a connection between the device and the heater of the conduit 20.

[0283] Surgical System See Figure 11 An example of a surgical system 600 is shown. The surgical system 600 can be configured to supply blown air into a patient's body cavity, for example, for laparoscopic or open surgery.

[0284] The surgical system 600 may include one or more components. One or more components may be part of a catheter system. One or more components may be any combination of, for example, one or more catheters 602, 606, 616, 622, a blow-in gas filter (e.g., an exhaust filter 618), or a patient interface 608.

[0285] In some examples, the blown gas can be carbon dioxide. In some examples, the blown gas can be air. In some examples, the blown gas can be a mixture of gases. In some examples, a drug can be added to the blown gas.

[0286] Blown gas can be pressurized to pressures above atmospheric pressure. This gas can create a workspace within the patient's body (such as the abdominal or peritoneal cavity) to allow surgeons or surgical teams to perform procedures. Surgical procedures may involve cauterization, which generates surgical smoke within the workspace.

[0287] Surgical system 600 may include one or more of the following: gas source 502, blower supply conduit 602, blower 604, blower gas filter (not shown), humidifier supply conduit 504, surgical instruments (humidifier 506 in this example), delivery conduit 606, patient interface 608, and smoke extraction system 610. In other examples, the surgical system may include a recirculation system (not shown), for example, to replace smoke extraction system 610.

[0288] In some examples, the surgical instrument includes an insufflator 604 and a humidifier 506. In other examples, the surgical instrument includes only the humidifier 506, or only the insufflator 604.

[0289] For example, gas source 502 could be a wall-mounted gas source 612 or a compressed gas cylinder 614. In other examples, the blower could be configured to pressurize ambient air.

[0290] The patient interface 608 can be a surgical cannula or other surgical access device.

[0291] One or more blow-in gas filters may be provided between the blow-in device 604 and the patient interface 608. A blow-in gas filter may also be provided between the blow-in device 604 and the humidifier 506, for example, between the outlet of the blow-in device 604 and the inlet of the humidifier supply tubing. Alternatively or supplementarily, a blow-in gas filter may also be provided between the humidifier 106 and the patient interface 608, for example, between the outlet of the humidifier 106 and the inlet of the delivery tubing 606.

[0292] An adapter (not shown) may be provided at the outlet of the blower 604, for example, between the blower 604 and the blow-in gas filter or humidifier supply conduit 504.

[0293] In other examples, such as surgical airflow systems configured for open surgery, the airflow gas filter or humidifier supply conduit 504 may be directly connected to the gas outlet port of the carbon dioxide supply stand. The patient interface 608 may be a surgical diffuser or other surgical access device.

[0294] Surgical instrument 506 may be a humidifier. Surgical instrument 506 may include one or more of the following as described above with respect to example respiratory system 1: humidification chamber, chamber heater, humidifier controller, and user interface.

[0295] The delivery conduit 606 may otherwise be similar to the supply conduit 20 of the respiratory system 1. For example, the delivery conduit 606 may be provided with a heater, such as a heating wire. In some examples, the delivery conduit 606 may be corrugated. In other examples, the delivery conduit may be formed of at least one member spirally wound around the lumen of the delivery conduit.

[0296] The smoke extraction system 610 may include an exhaust duct 616 and an exhaust filter 618.

[0297] The smoke extraction system 610 may be configured to connect to a vacuum source 620 (e.g., a wall-mounted gas source). In some examples, the smoke extraction system 610 may include a further exhaust conduit 622. The further exhaust conduit 622 may be configured to connect between the exhaust filter 618 and the vacuum source 620. In some examples, the further exhaust conduit 622 may be constructed substantially the same as the exhaust conduit 616. In some examples, the further exhaust conduit 622 may have the same length as the exhaust conduit 616. In other examples, the further exhaust conduit 622 may be constructed differently from the exhaust conduit 616. In some examples, the further exhaust conduit 622 may differ from the exhaust conduit 616 in one or more aspects of length, diameter, and material.

[0298] In the illustrated surgical system 600, the humidifier supply conduit 504, humidification chamber 120, delivery conduit 606, exhaust conduit 616, exhaust filter 618, and further exhaust conduit 622 collectively constitute a blow-through circuit. More specifically, this particular configuration forms a dual-tube blow-through circuit 624. The humidifier supply conduit 504, humidification chamber 120, and delivery conduit 606 can be considered as inlet branches constituting the dual-tube blow-through circuit 624. The smoke extraction system 610 (e.g., exhaust conduit 616, exhaust filter 618, and further exhaust conduit 622) can be considered as outlet branches constituting the dual-tube blow-through circuit 624.

[0299] Figure 11 The endoscope 626 and the laparoscopic monitor 628 are also shown.

[0300] In use, the blown gas is supplied by a gas source 502 and delivered to the blower 604 via a blower supply conduit 602. The blower 604 controls the pressure of the blown gas. The blower 604 supplies the blown gas to the inlet of the surgical instrument 506 via a humidifier supply conduit 504. The blown gas is heated and humidified by the surgical instrument 506. Subsequently, the heated and humidified blown gas is delivered to the patient interface 608 via a delivery conduit 606 and then enters the patient's body cavity.

[0301] In some examples, the pressure of the insufflator 604 can be set between approximately 5 mmHg and 20 mmHg, depending on the patient's size and the required inflation volume. The flow rate of the insufflator 604 can be set between approximately 1 liter / minute and 12 liters / minute, depending on the requirements of the specific procedure.

[0302] Inhaled gas and surgical fumes (if present) may flow from the patient's body cavity into the patient interface 608 and through the exhaust conduit 616 to the exhaust filter 618. In some examples, inhaled gas and surgical fumes (if present) may flow from the patient's body cavity into a dedicated exhaust sleeve (not shown) and through the exhaust conduit 616 to the exhaust filter 618. That is, the patient interface 608 is not necessarily connected to the exhaust conduit 616.

[0303] The exhaust filter 618 may include a filter medium. This filter medium traps contaminants in the blown gas or surgical fumes. These contaminants may include one or more of particulate matter, odors, and gaseous hydrocarbons. In some examples, the filtered gas downstream of the exhaust filter 618 is almost 100% carbon dioxide. In some examples, the exhaust filter removes 99.999% of particles, cells, and viruses. In some examples, the exhaust filter has a trapping capacity of up to 0.02 micrometers. The filtered gas can be released into ambient air. It can be remotely emitted, away from patients and the surgical team.

[0304] In some examples, surgical instrument 506 may be configured to humidify the blown-in gas to or near saturation, i.e., 100% relative humidity. Since the patient's body cavity is already moist and humid, the amount of moisture lost during the blown-in process is minimal; if the gas has not yet reached its saturation point upon entry, it can achieve complete saturation within the body cavity.

[0305] In other examples, the surgical air-blowing system may omit the humidifier 506 and supply the patient with relatively dry air, such as air with a relative humidity below about 90%, about 80%, or about 70%. The relatively dry air is humidified as it passes through the patient's body cavity, absorbing moisture from the relatively warm and humid environment above the organs within the cavity.

[0306] In some examples, the smoke extraction system 610 does not include one or more of a heating wire and a water collection tank. However, in some examples, at least one of the exhaust duct 616 and the further exhaust duct 622 may be equipped with a heating wire.

[0307] Figure 12 and Figure 13 An example of a humidification chamber 120 with adapter 126 and filter 200 is shown. Adapter 126 and / or filter 200 can be added to any of the systems and / or devices described above.

[0308] Adapter 126 is used to connect the flow generator 11 and the humidification chamber 120. Adapter 126 also provides a connection interface with the filter 200.

[0309] In some examples, adapter 126 is configured to connect directly to a flow generator or via a conduit (such as humidifier supply conduit 504 or conduit 157).

[0310] The adapter 126 can be connected to and disconnected from the flow generator 11 and the humidification chamber 120.

[0311] Adapter 126 provides a portion of the gas flow path between flow generator outlet 113 and humidification chamber 120. For example, adapter 126 defines a gas flow path from flow generator outlet 113 to filter 200, and then from filter 200 to humidification chamber 120.

[0312] The gas flow path may be formed by a peripheral wall. The cross-section of the gas flow path may be approximately circular, and / or have one or more composite shapes.

[0313] It should be understood that the walls of the adapter that constitute the gas flow path can be shared by multiple gas flow paths.

[0314] like Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, adapter 126 includes: a gas inlet 220 configured to be connected to flow generator outlet 113; an adapter filter outlet 221 configured to be connected to filter inlet 210; an adapter filter inlet 222 configured to be connected to filter outlet 211; and a gas outlet 223 configured to be connected to humidification chamber 120.

[0315] Adapter 126 provides a gas flow path between gas inlet 220 and adapter filter outlet 221, for example Figure 13 and Figure 16 As indicated by the middle arrow 230. It should be understood that gas can flow bidirectionally within this gas flow path (depending on the type of treatment provided by the device and the patient's breathing pattern). For example, as... Figure 12 As shown, the gas flow path extends away from the flow generator beyond the humidifier inlet, causing the adapter filter outlet 221 to be located further away from the flow generator than the humidifier inlet. This arrangement achieves a spacing between the connection points of the filter 200 (i.e., adapter filter outlet 221 and adapter filter inlet 222) to facilitate the installation of the filter 200. This spacing allows for the connection of a larger filter 200 with a larger filter medium 202 (i.e., a filter medium 202 with a larger surface area). A larger filter medium 202 reduces the pressure drop across the filter medium 202.

[0316] like Figure 14 As shown, the gas flow path between the gas inlet 220 and the adapter filter outlet 221 extends horizontally from the gas inlet 220 to a horizontal portion 260, and then extends vertically toward the adapter filter outlet 221 to a vertical portion 269.

[0317] In some examples, such as Figure 14 As shown, the horizontal portion 260 may include a cut 263. This cut 263 allows the horizontal portion 260 of the gas flow path to be positioned between the adapter filter inlet 222 and the gas outlet 223, as detailed below.

[0318] The filter 200, which will be described in detail below, includes a filter inlet 210 configured to connect to an adapter filter outlet 221 of the adapter 126. The filter 200 also includes a filter outlet 211 configured to connect to an adapter filter inlet 222 of the adapter 126 (e.g., as shown below). Figure 12-15 (As shown).

[0319] like Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, adapter 126 includes a gas outlet 223 configured to connect to a humidification chamber inlet 140 of humidification chamber 120.

[0320] Adapter 126 provides a gas flow path between adapter filter inlet 222 and gas outlet 223, for example... Figure 13 and Figure 15 As indicated by the middle arrow 231. It should be understood that the gas can flow in either direction within this gas flow path (depending on the type of treatment provided by the device and the patient's breathing).

[0321] When using the terms inlet and outlet, these inlets and outlets can be, for example, openings and / or ports.

[0322] like Figure 14 As shown, the gas flow path between the adapter filter inlet 222 and the gas outlet 223 extends generally vertically from the adapter filter inlet 222 to the gas outlet 223. The gas flow path between the adapter filter inlet 222 and the gas outlet 223 may include a horizontal portion 400 located between the adapter filter inlet 222 and the gas outlet 223. Providing the horizontal portion 400 allows the adapter filter inlet 222 to be offset relative to the gas outlet 223 (e.g., towards the outside of the humidification chamber 120). The horizontal portion 400 may be located between two vertical portions, such as... Figure 14 As shown, or located at the end of the vertical section.

[0323] In some examples, the adapter filter inlet 222 and the gas outlet 223 may extend horizontally from the adapter filter inlet 222 to the gas outlet 223.

[0324] The adapter 126 may be designed such that a single adapter simultaneously defines the two gas flow paths indicated by arrows 230 and 231.

[0325] In other embodiments, a separate adapter may be provided for each gas flow path. For example, a first adapter may define a gas flow path from the device to the filter. A second adapter may define a gas flow path from the filter to the humidification chamber. A third adapter may define a flow path from the humidification chamber 120 to the outlet 273.

[0326] In some examples, one or more gas flow paths between the device, the filter, and the humidification chamber 120 may be provided by a pipe (i.e., a conduit including a pipe).

[0327] In some examples, the gas flow path from the device to the filter is provided by tubing. In some examples, the gas flow path from the filter to the humidification chamber is provided by tubing. In some examples, the gas flow path from the humidification chamber to the nebulizer port (or nebulizer adapter), or to the supply catheter or patient interface, is provided by tubing.

[0328] In some examples, at least a portion of the gas flow path from the device to the filter may be defined by a tube (as part of a conduit). This tube may be flexible or rigid. In some examples, the gas flow path from the device to the filter is defined by the tube and adapter 126.

[0329] The outlet of the first adapter (e.g., adapter filter outlet 221) may be configured to be in fluid communication with the filter 200. In some examples, the outlet of the first adapter (e.g., adapter filter outlet 221) may extend in a generally horizontal direction, and optionally, in a forward direction.

[0330] The outlet of the first adapter can be directly connected to the first adapter, or connected via a pipe.

[0331] In some examples, at least a portion of the gas flow path from filter 200 to humidification chamber 120 is defined by a tube (as part of a conduit). This tube can be flexible or rigid. The flexible tube can be breathable.

[0332] The second adapter can be connected to the filter at its inlet (e.g., adapter filter inlet 222). The second adapter can be permanently connected to the filter, or it can be detachable and connectable.

[0333] The outlet of the second adapter (e.g., gas outlet 223) can be configured to be in fluid communication with the humidification chamber.

[0334] In some examples, the gas flow path from the humidification chamber 120 to the patient interface may be defined by a tube. This tube may be flexible or rigid. For example, the tube may be directly connected to the humidification chamber 120.

[0335] The inlet of the third adapter (e.g., humidifying gas inlet 270) may be in fluid communication with the humidification chamber 120. The outlet may be in fluid communication with the patient interface. For example, the outlet 273 of the third adapter may be in fluid communication with the supply catheter 20.

[0336] In some examples, the atomizer can be configured to be mounted between the second adapter and the humidification chamber 120. For example, the second adapter may include an atomizer port configured to be in fluid communication with the atomizer. This port may provide a tapered connection to the atomizer.

[0337] In some examples, the third adapter may include an atomizer port.

[0338] In some examples, such as Figure 58 As shown, the first adapter 1505 can define a gas flow path from the device to the filter 200 (i.e., between the gas inlet 220 of the adapter 126 and the adapter filter outlet 221) and a gas flow path from the filter 200 to the humidification chamber 120 (i.e., between the adapter filter inlet 222 and the gas outlet 223), while the second adapter 1506 can define a flow path from the humidification chamber 120 to the outlet 273 (i.e., between the humidified gas inlet 270 and the outlet 273).

[0339] like Figure 58 As shown, the first adapter 1505 includes alignment feature 290. The first adapter 1505 also includes an adapter retainer 1507. The adapter retainer 1507 is configured to receive and secure the second adapter 1506. The second adapter 1506 is detachable from the adapter retainer 1507.

[0340] The adapter retainer 1507 may include one or more alignment features. These alignment features are used to ensure alignment between the second adapter 1506 and the adapter retainer 1507 when the second adapter 1506 is received by the adapter retainer 1507. These alignment features may include one or more protrusions on the second adapter 1506 and one or more corresponding recesses on the adapter retainer 1507. Alternatively, the alignment features may include one or more protrusions on the adapter retainer 1507 and one or more corresponding recesses on the second adapter 1506.

[0341] In some examples, the second adapter 1506 and / or the adapter retainer 1507 may be provided with one or more retaining features. These retaining features help to secure the second adapter 1506 when it is received by the adapter retainer 1507. In some examples, these alignment features may also function as retaining features.

[0342] Alignment features may include a cutout 1508 on the adapter holder 1507 for receiving the atomizer port 272. When the second adapter 1506 is received by the adapter holder 1507, the cutout 1508 may receive a portion of the atomizer port 272.

[0343] The second adapter 1506 may also include a stop feature 1509. This stop feature 1509 prevents the second adapter 1506 from being over-inserted into the adapter retainer 1507. Figure 58 In the example, the stop feature 1509 is a flange. The adapter retainer 1507 may include a corresponding surface for engaging with the stop surface.

[0344] The adapter retainer 1507 may have one or more cutouts around its base to prevent the adapter retainer 1507 from forming a seal with the humidification chamber 120.

[0345] When the adapter is connected to the flow generator 11, the humidification chamber 120 and the filter 200, a gas flow path is formed between the flow generator outlet 113 and the adapter filter outlet 221 defined by the adapter. This path passes through the filter 200 between the filter inlet 210 and the filter outlet 211, and through the adapter 126 between the adapter filter inlet 222 and the gas outlet 223.

[0346] If the filter 200 is disconnected from the adapter 126 during device operation, the adapter 126 can discharge any airflow from the patient through the adapter filter inlet 222, and any airflow from the device can be discharged through the adapter filter outlet 221. This can be beneficial to patient safety because without the filter 200 present in the system, the device would not be able to maintain fluid communication with the patient.

[0347] The diameter of the gas inlet 220 of the adapter 126 may be about 20 mm to about 30 mm, or about 24 mm to about 27 mm, or about 25 mm to about 26 mm, or about 25.4 mm to about 25.8 mm, or about 25.4 mm, or about 25.5 mm, or about 25.6 mm, or about 25.7 mm.

[0348] Figure 13 An example showing the filter 200, adapter 126, and humidification chamber 120 connected together is provided. Figure 14 An example is shown where filter 200 is disconnected from adapter 126. Figure 21 Another example of filter 200 being disconnected from adapter 126 is shown. As described in more detail above, filter 200 is configured to connect to and disconnect from adapter 126, wherein filter inlet 210 is connected to adapter filter outlet 221 of adapter 126, and filter outlet 211 is connected to adapter filter inlet 222 of adapter 126. Filter 200 along... Figure 14 and Figure 21 The orientation shown (i.e., vertical when adapter 126 and humidification chamber 120 are mounted on the device) is connected to adapter 126.

[0349] Filter 200 includes a filter housing 201 and a filter medium 202, wherein the filter medium 202 is located between a filter inlet 210 and a filter outlet 211. Figure 19 As shown in the cross-sectional view of the filter 200, the filter housing may include a first housing portion 205 and a second housing portion 206. The first housing portion 205 and the second housing portion 206 may be permanently connected or detachably connected. Figure 19 In the example shown, the first housing portion 205 includes a recess 233 configured to engage with an edge 234 of the second housing portion 206. In other examples, for example... Figure 28 As shown, one or more snap-fit ​​features 601 may be provided to permanently or detachably connect the first housing portion 205 and the second housing portion 206.

[0350] The filter media in filter 200 can reduce and / or prevent any contaminants and / or water and / or aerosols or other particulate matter from passing through the filter.

[0351] In some examples, the first housing portion 205 is secured to the second housing portion 206 by adhesive and / or ultrasonic welding and / or one or more mechanical fastening features.

[0352] The first housing portion 205 includes a filter outlet 211, and the second housing portion 206 includes a filter inlet 210.

[0353] like Figure 19 As shown, the filter medium 202 is fixed between the first housing portion 205 and the second housing portion 206. Figure 19 In the example, the second housing portion 206 and / or the first housing portion 205 include a reservoir into which the filter medium 202 can be inserted. The filter medium 202 may be fixed (e.g., by one or more mechanical fastening features or adhesive) or not fixed to the second housing portion 206. The filter medium 202 may form a seal with the second housing portion 206 and / or the first housing portion 205 to prevent gas from passing through the filter 200 without the filter medium.

[0354] In some examples, the filter media housing 201 includes a filter media retaining member that extends across the filter media housing 201 and engages with the surface of the filter media 202 and / or structural elements of the filter media 202 (as described in more detail below). In some examples, one or more of the first housing portion 205 and / or the second housing portion 206 may include the filter media retaining member. The filter media retaining member helps to support the filter media 202, for example, it can prevent the filter media from sagging, and in the case of a pleated filter, it helps to maintain the proper folding of the pleats.

[0355] Filter inlet 210 may be defined by a wall 216 extending into filter housing 201. A gap may be provided between filter medium 202 and wall 216 to allow the surface of filter medium 202 to contact the gas flow. Similarly, filter outlet 211 may be defined by a wall 215 extending into filter housing 201. A gap may be provided between filter medium 202 and wall 215 to allow the surface of filter medium 202 to contact the gas flow. In other examples, filter inlet 210 and / or filter outlet 211 may open into the interior of filter housing 201 (e.g., without walls 215 and / or 216). In some examples, the distance by which walls 215 and / or 216 extend into the filter housing may be even shorter.

[0356] In some examples, O-rings or other seals may be provided to seal between the filter inlet 210 and the adapter filter outlet 221 and / or between the filter outlet 211 and the adapter filter inlet 222, for example, Figure 21 As shown.

[0357] like Figure 21 As shown, filter outlet 211 is formed as part of first housing portion 205, while filter inlet 210 is formed as part of second housing portion 206. Filter outlet 211 and filter inlet 210 extend into elbows.

[0358] As described above, when providing pressure-based therapy (e.g., bilevel pressure therapy), the filter media 202 helps prevent contamination of the respiratory assist device 10. In pressure-based therapy, the patient exhales into the patient interface 30, and the exhaled air flows down the supply conduit 20 towards the humidification chamber 120 and the flow generator 11. This exhaled air may contain contaminants, and the filter media 202 prevents these contaminants from passing upstream of the filter media 202.

[0359] Furthermore, filter media 202 helps prevent contamination in treatments delivered at lower flow rates (e.g., high-flow nasal oxygen therapy or continuous positive airway pressure in children, or low-flow oxygen therapy in adults). When treatment is delivered at higher flow rates, the airflow can help clear any exhaled gas from the gas flow path (e.g., including the humidification chamber 120, supply catheter 20, and patient interface 30). At lower flow rates, this flushing effect can be weaker, and therefore may not completely remove all exhaled gas. This exhaled gas may contain contaminants, and filter media 202 can prevent these contaminants from passing upstream of filter media 202.

[0360] The filter medium 202 also prevents any water (or other humidifying liquid) from flowing back upstream of the filter medium 202 (e.g., towards the flow generator). This not only helps prevent contaminants from spreading upstream, but also prevents water from damaging the device, while reducing potential sensing problems that may arise from the interaction of water with the various sensors in the device.

[0361] When selecting filter media 202, its flow resistance should be minimized. By minimizing the flow resistance of filter media 202, its pressure drop can also be reduced to a minimum. Filter media 202 can be defined by various parameters, such as filter media surface area, number of filter media layers, and / or filter material. When selecting filter media parameters, the flow resistance of filter media 202 should be minimized. Minimizing flow resistance can minimize the pressure drop of filter media 202, and / or keep the pressure drop of filter media 202 below a specific threshold, and / or enable filter media 202 to achieve a specific target pressure drop value or target range. For example, the target pressure drop or pressure drop range can depend on the flow rate.

[0362] The filter medium 202 may be a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter (e.g., the filter medium may be a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter medium).

[0363] In some examples, the filter medium 202 can be pleated or non-pleated.

[0364] In some examples, the filter medium 202 may be made of an electrostatic filter material. In some examples, the filter medium 202 may be a woven or nonwoven material.

[0365] The filter media can be made of polypropylene and / or wool.

[0366] In some examples, the filter media may be made of glass fiber and / or polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) membrane.

[0367] In some examples, the filter media may be made of polyamide.

[0368] In some examples, the density of the filter medium may be at least 300 grams per square meter (gsm).

[0369] In some examples, the density of the filter medium may be from about 50 gsm to about 400 gsm, or from about 60 gsm to about 300 gsm, or about 50 gsm, or about 60 gsm, or about 70 gsm, or about 150 gsm, or about 200 gsm, or about 250 gsm, or about 300 gsm.

[0370] In some examples, the filter medium 202 can be pleated, for example, as shown below. Figure 20 As shown, with the same space occupied by the filter media, pleated filters can have a lower pressure drop compared to non-pleated materials.

[0371] The filter medium 202 can be shaped to fit the housing of the filter housing. For example, as Figure 19 The filter housing 201 shown typically has a circular housing, therefore the filter medium 202 is also circular. In other examples, for example... Figure 21 As shown, the housing 201 of the filter is a rectangular cuboid, and as... Figure 22 As shown, the filter medium 202 is also a rectangular cuboid. The filter housing 201 may also match the shape of the housing and / or the filter medium 202, or it may be a different shape. In some examples, the filter housing 201 is typically a rectangular cuboid.

[0372] In some examples, the filter medium 202 may have structural elements that help maintain its shape. For example, in Figure 20 In this filter medium 202, a central axis structure 217 extends from one side of the filter medium 202 to the other, i.e., along the width direction of the filter medium 202. The filter medium 202 may also have an outer ring 218. The outer ring 218 extends along the periphery of the filter medium 202 (e.g., Figure 20Circumference or Figure 22 The outer ring 218 extends from one side to the other, along the width of the filter medium 202. The outer ring 218 also helps to seal the filter medium 202 within the filter housing 201, preventing gas flow from bypassing the filter medium 202 and instead directing it through it. These structural elements can be made of plastic (e.g., polycarbonate) and can be rigid. In some examples, the central shaft structure 217 can be formed by a line of glue.

[0373] A pleated structure allows for the use of thicker filter media (resulting in a higher overall filter media density). The reduced pressure drop caused by the pleated structure offsets the increased pressure drop caused by the increased media thickness.

[0374] In certain situations, pleated filter media can maintain their filtration efficiency for a longer period compared to non-pleated filter media. This is particularly true in humid environments, where pleated filter media retains its filtration efficiency for an extended period. This can be beneficial when certain humid gases can come into contact with the filter media (e.g., when a reverse airflow occurs through the filter media).

[0375] In some cases, pleated filter media can absorb more moisture before reaching saturation.

[0376] The surface area of ​​the filter medium 202 and / or the pressure drop of the filter medium 202 can be adjusted by selecting the height of the pleats and / or the pleat spacing.

[0377] In some examples, at least one surface of the filter medium 202 may be hydrophobic. The filter medium 202 itself may be hydrophobic, and / or the filter medium 202 may be coated with a hydrophobic material. The hydrophobicity of the filter medium 202 helps to extend its service life and prevent water from flowing back into the device. The surface of the filter medium 202 coated with a hydrophobic material may be an upstream surface, a downstream surface, or both.

[0378] As described above, adapter 126, filter 200, flow generator 11, and humidification chamber 120 are all provided with inlets and outlets. For example, these inlets and outlets may be configured as part of a port.

[0379] In some examples, the connection between the inlet and outlet can be one or more of friction fit, sliding fit, and / or interference fit.

[0380] In some examples, interconnected inlets and / or outlets may include seals. These seals may be, for example, O-rings or T-seals that extend around the circumference of the inlet or outlet and are configured to form a seal with the corresponding outlet or inlet of the connected component.

[0381] For example, the adapter filter outlet or filter inlet of the adapter may include a seal for sealing the connection between the adapter filter outlet and the filter inlet. In another example, the adapter filter inlet or filter outlet of the adapter includes a seal for sealing the connection between the adapter filter inlet and the filter outlet.

[0382] The terms "inlet" and "outlet" may or may not indicate the direction of airflow, because gas can flow bidirectionally in the gas flow path depending on the treatment needs.

[0383] Under normal airflow conditions (e.g., from the flow generator to the patient), the gas at the adapter filter inlet can be unfiltered, while the gas at the adapter filter outlet can be filtered. However, it should be understood that unfiltered gas can also pass through the adapter filter inlet due to backflow from the patient.

[0384] The outer surface of the flow generator outlet 113 can form a seal with the inner surface of the gas inlet 220 of the adapter 126. In other examples, the inner surface of the flow generator outlet 113 can form a seal with the outer surface of the gas inlet 220 of the adapter 126.

[0385] like Figure 14 As shown, the outer surface of adapter filter outlet 221 is configured to seal against the inner surface of filter inlet 210, and the outer surface of adapter filter inlet 222 is configured to connect with the inner surface of filter outlet 211. In other examples, the inner surface of adapter filter outlet 221 is configured to connect with the outer surface of filter inlet 210, and / or the inner surface of adapter filter inlet 222 is configured to connect with the outer surface of filter outlet 211.

[0386] The adapter's gas outlet 223 is configured to seal against the outer surface of the humidification chamber inlet 140. In other examples, the adapter's gas outlet 223 is configured to seal against the inner surface of the humidification chamber inlet 140.

[0387] like Figure 21 As shown, filter 200 has a seal 265 at filter outlet 211 and a seal 266 at filter inlet 210. Figure 21 In the example shown, the seal is an O-ring. Seal 265 is used to seal the connection between adapter inlet 222 and filter outlet 211, and seal 266 is used to seal the connection between adapter outlet 221 and filter inlet 210.

[0388] Similarly, Figure 21As shown, filter 200 is provided with flanges 267, 268, which helps to prevent filter outlet 211 from being over-inserted into adapter filter inlet 222, and / or filter inlet 210 from being over-inserted into adapter filter outlet 211.

[0389] Figures 23 to 25 Examples of grip features 255 and 256 on filter 200 are shown. Grip features 255 and 256 help the user connect or disconnect filter 200 from the adapter.

[0390] The gripping feature 255 may be provided on one or more of the housing 201, filter inlet 210 and / or filter outlet 211 of the filter 200.

[0391] like Figure 25 As shown, the upper surface of the filter inlet 210 and / or filter outlet 211 of filter 200 includes one or more gripping features 255. These gripping features help the user push the filter into the adapter, for example along... Figure 21 The connection direction is shown. The filter inlet 210 and filter outlet 211 of filter 200 can be formed by elbows, such as... Figure 25 As shown.

[0392] like Figures 23 to 25 As shown, one or more gripping features 256 may also be provided on the housing 201 of the filter 200. A pair of gripping features 256 may be provided, located on both sides of the filter 200 respectively.

[0393] These grip features 256 help the user remove the filter 200 from the adapter. The user can pull the filter 200 off the adapter by grasping the grip features 256 on the filter housing.

[0394] like Figures 23 to 25 As shown, gripping features 255 and 256 are multiple ribs located within the fan-shaped portion. In other examples, gripping features 255 and 256 can be one or more of the following: ribs, textures, protrusions, fan-shaped portions, and / or openings.

[0395] In some examples, one or both of filter 200 and / or adapter 126 may be provided with one or more anti-misconnection features that prevent filter 200 from being connected in reverse or only allow the filter and adapter to be connected in the correct flow direction. This is especially important when filter 200 can only be connected in one direction—for example, when it is necessary to ensure the correct flow direction, or when filter 200 should not be reconnected in reverse after being disconnected (to prevent contamination).

[0396] In some examples, the adapter filter outlet 221 and / or filter outlet 211 of the adapter 126 may be provided with anti-misconnection features to prevent connection between the adapter filter outlet 221 of the adapter and the filter outlet 211 of the filter 200.

[0397] In some examples, the adapter filter inlet 222 and / or filter inlet 210 of the adapter 126 may be provided with anti-misconnection features to prevent connection between the adapter filter outlet 221 of the adapter and the filter inlet 210 of the filter 200.

[0398] The anti-misconnection feature can be one or more of the following: a protrusion, a bonding feature, and / or different diameters of the inlet and / or outlet.

[0399] Figure 25 Examples of one or more anti-misconnection features 250, 251 are shown. Adapters and / or filters may include anti-misconnection features 250, 251, 251', 251''.

[0400] like Figure 25 As shown, the adapter's anti-misconnection feature 251 is located at or near the adapter filter inlet 222, for example, on the outer surface of the gas flow path 231 between the adapter filter inlet 222 and the gas outlet 223. Figure 25 In this example, the anti-misconnection feature 251 is in the form of a rib; however, as mentioned above, in other examples, the anti-misconnection feature may be another type of protrusion, or for example, a specific shape of the adapter filter inlet 222.

[0401] The anti-misconnection feature 251 (as a rib) extends toward the adapter filter inlet 222 in a direction parallel to the gas flow path 231 and / or in the connection direction between the filter and the adapter.

[0402] As mentioned above, the filter may also include one or more anti-misconnection features 251', 251''.

[0403] In one example, the filter may include a misconnection prevention feature as a recess 251' in the housing 201, which is configured to allow the filter to be connected to the adapter when the orientation is correct (i.e., when the filter outlet 211 is connected to the adapter filter inlet 222 and the adapter filter outlet 221 is connected to the filter inlet 210). The recess 251' allows the filter housing to avoid the misconnection prevention feature 251 of the adapter (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 25 (As shown). The groove 251' allows the filter 200 to be connected to the adapter 126 without causing the housing to come into contact with the anti-misconnection feature 251 of the adapter 126.

[0404] In other examples, the filter may additionally or alternatively include a protrusion 251'' as a misconnection prevention feature. This protrusion 251'' may extend from the filter housing 201. In the event of an attempt to incorrectly connect the filter, the protrusion 251'' may be designed to abut against the misconnection prevention feature 251 of the manifold.

[0405] The anti-misconnection features 250, 251, 251', and 251'' can prevent the connection between the filter 200 and the adapter 126 when the filter 200 is attempted to be connected incorrectly (i.e., when the filter outlet 211 is attempted to be connected to the adapter filter outlet 221 and the filter inlet 210 is attempted to be connected to the adapter filter inlet 222), and / or allow the connection when it is correctly aligned (i.e., the filter outlet 211 is connected to the adapter filter inlet 222 and the filter inlet 210 is connected to the adapter filter outlet 221).

[0406] Adapter 126 may also provide at least a portion of the flow path between the humidification chamber outlet and a component.

[0407] The component may be, for example, device outlet port 13, or a conduit (e.g., conduit 127, supply conduit 20, or delivery conduit 606).

[0408] like Figure 16 As shown, adapter 126 includes a humidifying gas inlet 270 configured to connect to the outlet of the humidification chamber, and a humidifying gas outlet 273 configured to connect to the inlet of the component. Adapter 126 provides a gas flow path between the humidifier gas inlet 270 and the humidifying gas outlet 273.

[0409] The diameter of the humidifier gas inlet 270 and / or gas outlet 273 of the adapter 126 may be about 20 mm to about 30 mm, or about 24 mm to about 27 mm, or about 22 mm to about 24 mm, or about 22 mm to about 23 mm, or about 22.5 mm, or about 22.6 mm, or about 22.7 mm, or about 22.8 mm.

[0410] The distance between the center of the humidifier gas inlet 270 and the center of the gas outlet 223 can be about 40 mm to about 60 mm, or about 45 mm to about 55 mm, or about 50 mm to about 55 mm, or about 52 mm to about 53 mm, or about 52.6 mm, or about 52.7 mm, or about 52.8 mm, or about 52.9 mm.

[0411] Adapter 126 also includes an atomizer port 272. Atomizer port 272 is configurable to receive an atomizer and / or a stream of atomized particles from an atomizer. In some examples, the atomizer outlet is inserted into atomizer port 272. In other examples, the atomizer outlet may be connected to atomizer port 272 via a connector and / or conduit or other adapter to deliver atomized particles to atomizer port 272.

[0412] In some examples, filter 200 is located downstream of the flow generator but upstream of both humidification chamber 120 and atomizer port 272. In other examples, humidification chamber 120 and atomizer port 272 are located between the component connected to adapter 126 and filter 200.

[0413] In some examples, the atomizer port 272 may be part of the adapter 126 and located between the adapter filter inlet 222 and the gas outlet 223, or between the humidified gas inlet 270 and the outlet 273.

[0414] Atomizer port 272 may extend in a direction away from filter 200 (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 24 (As shown). This provides more space for connecting the atomizer. In some examples, the atomizer port 272 may extend at an angle to the horizontal and / or vertical plane (e.g., at least as shown). Figure 32 and Figure 33 (As shown). In other examples, such as Figure 34 As shown, the atomizer port 272 extends laterally (to the right) (i.e. away from the central vertical plane of the adapter 126).

[0415] In some examples, the atomizer port may be tilted upward relative to the horizontal plane by about 1 degree to about 80 degrees, or about 10 degrees to about 70 degrees, or about 15 degrees to about 60 degrees.

[0416] In some examples, atomizer port 272 forms a conduit (or is connected to a conduit) that is connected to the atomizer.

[0417] The diameter of the atomizer port 272 may be approximately 20 mm to approximately 30 mm, or approximately 20 mm to approximately 25 mm, or approximately 21 mm to approximately 24 mm, or approximately 22 mm to approximately 23 mm, or approximately 22.3 mm, or approximately 22.4 mm, or approximately 22.5 mm, or approximately 22.6 mm.

[0418] In some examples, the atomizer port 272 is provided as part of an atomizer port adapter. This atomizer port adapter may include an inlet and an outlet, and includes the atomizer port 272. The atomizer port adapter may be connected, for example, between filter outlet 211 and adapter filter inlet 222, or between gas outlet 223 and humidification chamber inlet 140, or between humidification chamber outlet and humidified gas inlet 270, or between outlet 273 and a connected conduit (e.g., supply conduit 20).

[0419] One potential advantage of placing the atomizer port downstream of the humidification chamber 120 is that this arrangement means the atomized particles do not need to pass through the filter medium 202, as the filter medium could block the passage of atomized particles. Furthermore, any atomized particles that might flow back into the humidification chamber can be blocked by the filter medium 202, thus preventing them from entering the device 10.

[0420] The adapter 126 may provide only the flow path between the humidification chamber outlet and the component inlet 274, or it may include the aforementioned flow path (e.g., 230, 231) in a single adapter 126.

[0421] For example, such as Figure 24 , 27 As shown in Figure 28, adapter 126 includes one or more alignment features 260, 290 and / or one or more stop features 277, which are configured to mate with corresponding features of the flow generator. Alignment features 260, 290 are configured to assist in aligning the adapter (and the humidification chamber, if the humidification chamber is connected to adapter 126) with the flow generator when and / or during the connection process between adapter 126 and the flow generator.

[0422] One or more alignment features 260 and / or one or more stop features 277 may be associated with the gas inlet 220 and the humidified gas outlet 273, respectively. Alternatively, alignment feature 290 may be provided as part of adapter 126. For example, in Figure 27 An alignment feature 260 can be provided at or near the gas inlet 220 (this feature can also selectively function as a stop feature). Simultaneously, a stop feature 277 can be provided at or near the humidified gas outlet 273. Figure 28 In the middle, the stop feature 277 is provided at or near the gas inlet 220 and the humidified gas outlet 273.

[0423] Alignment features 260 and 290 can be configured to assist in aligning (e.g., rotational alignment and / or translational alignment) the adapter (and humidification chamber, if the humidification chamber is connected to the adapter 126) with the flow generator when the adapter is connected to the flow generator and / or during the connection process between the adapter 126 and the flow generator. Alignment features 260 and 290 can assist in correctly aligning the adapter (and humidification chamber, if the humidification chamber is connected to the adapter 126) in one or more directions in the horizontal and / or vertical planes.

[0424] The alignment feature can guide or maintain alignment between the adapter (and humidification chamber, if the humidification chamber is connected to the adapter 126) and the flow generator during the connection process.

[0425] Alignment features can also provide stop features (such as stop surfaces) to prevent adapter inlets and outlets from being over-inserted into the flow generator inlets and outlets, or to prevent flow generator inlets and outlets from being over-inserted into the adapter inlets and outlets.

[0426] In some examples, such as Figure 28 As shown, independent alignment features 260, 290 and stop feature 290 can be set.

[0427] The stop feature can also provide a visual indication to the user that the adapter 126 has been properly connected to the flow generator (e.g., it has been fully inserted and / or sealed).

[0428] The stop feature can be coupled to the corresponding stop feature of the flow generator. In some examples, the stop feature can also serve as an alignment feature.

[0429] Corresponding feature 262 may be located on the housing of the flow generator and / or on the shield 1614 of the flow generator (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 3 and Figure 5 (As shown).

[0430] like Figure 24 and Figure 27 As shown, the first alignment feature 260 is located at or near the gas inlet 220 of the adapter 126. This alignment feature 260 is configured to engage with a corresponding feature 262 on the flow generator shroud 1614. The alignment feature 260 is located on the upper surface of the gas flow path between the adapter gas inlet and the adapter filter outlet, but it is understood that the alignment feature 260 may also be additionally or alternatively located on the lower or side surface.

[0431] Alignment feature 260 includes at least one protrusion. The protrusion may have at least one bevel 261. The corresponding feature of the flow generator (e.g., shroud 1614) is a groove (or a correspondingly shaped location) having a corresponding bevel.

[0432] The ramp 261 of alignment feature 260 can be matched with the ramp of corresponding feature 262 of the flow generator (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 27 (As shown). For example, the protrusion can be V-shaped, and the groove can be a corresponding "V" shape (e.g., V-shaped notch, offset, etc.).

[0433] In other examples, the alignment feature 260 of the adapter may alternatively include a groove, while the corresponding feature of the flow generator (e.g., the shield 1614) may be a protrusion.

[0434] Alignment feature 260 also functions as a stop feature, for example, as... Figure 27 As shown, the engagement of alignment feature 260 and corresponding feature 262 prevents further movement toward the flow generator.

[0435] One or more alignment features of the adapter may be, for example, a second alignment feature 290. Alignment feature 290 may be provided as a supplement to or alternative to alignment feature 260. Figure 24 , 26 As shown in Figure 27, alignment feature 290 includes a channel. This channel is configured to engage with a corresponding rib 271 of the flow generator (e.g., rib 271 may be formed in the housing 1614). In other examples, the feature on adapter 126 may be a rib for engaging with a corresponding channel (or other groove) on the housing.

[0436] In some examples, the channels and / or ribs of the alignment feature 290 may have bevels. The bevels facilitate alignment of the adapter 126 (and the humidification chamber, if the humidification chamber is connected to the adapter) in the vertical direction (i.e., in the horizontal plane).

[0437] The ramp also helps to align the adapter 126 laterally (i.e., in the vertical plane) (as well as the humidification chamber if connected to the adapter).

[0438] When initially connecting adapter 126 to the flow generator, the user does not need to perfectly align adapter 126 in the horizontal and / or vertical planes (and if connected to the humidification chamber of the adapter), as the bevel helps guide the alignment of adapter 126. This is especially beneficial when the user is above, below, or to the side of the flow generator.

[0439] For example, when the adapter is connected to the flow generator, as the rib engages with the channel, the ramps of the channel and / or the rib cause the adapter 126 (and if connected to the humidification chamber of the adapter) to move to the correct alignment position (in the vertical direction).

[0440] In examples where rib 271 has a bevel, the bevel may be located at the bottom of rib 271 to engage with the contact surface of the channel. In some examples, the contact surface of the channel may also be inclined. In other examples, only the contact surface of the channel is inclined.

[0441] For a raised rib, the ramp can extend from the front of the raised rib (e.g., away from the shield) to the rear of the raised rib. The ramp can also extend downwards from the front of the raised rib.

[0442] For the channel (or other alignment features of the adapter), the ramp can extend from the rear of the channel (e.g., away from the gas inlet 220 and / or humidified gas outlet 273) toward the front of the channel. The ramp can extend downwards from the rear of the channel.

[0443] This alignment feature 290 helps maintain alignment between the flow generator outlet and the adapter gas inlet when connecting the gas inlet to the flow generator outlet and / or connecting the humidified gas outlet to a component.

[0444] like Figure 24 and Figure 26 As shown, alignment feature 290 is located between gas inlet 220 and humidified gas outlet 273.

[0445] In some examples, adapter 126 may include stop feature 277. Figure 27 An example stop feature 277 is shown, configured to engage with a corresponding stop feature of the flow generator (in this example, the stop feature is a surface of the elbow 131—not shown in the figure). As described above, this stop feature can provide visual and / or tactile indication that the adapter has been connected to the flow generator, and / or prevent over-insertion.

[0446] like Figure 24 , 26 As shown in Figures 27 and 28, adapter 126 may include a handle 280. The handle 280 is designed to facilitate the removal of the adapter (and, if connected to, the humidification chamber) from the flow generator.

[0447] Handle 280 provides a single position for the user to pull to detach the adapter (and, if connected to, the humidification chamber) from the flow generator without having to grip multiple parts of the adapter and / or the humidification chamber.

[0448] Handle 280 can also help connect adapter 126 to the flow generator by providing a push position for the user.

[0449] Handle 280 extends from a vertical portion 269 of gas flow path 230, located between gas inlet 220 and adapter filter outlet 221 of adapter 126. In some examples, handle 280 extends in a direction perpendicular to vertical portion 269 and / or generally horizontal. In some examples, handle 280 may extend from different locations on adapter 260 (e.g., on the gas flow path between humidifier gas inlet 290 and humidified gas outlet 273).

[0450] like Figure 27 As shown, the extension direction of the handle 280 is approximately perpendicular to the removal direction 281 in which the adapter 126 (and / or the humidification chamber 120) is removed from the flow generator. As Figure 27 As shown, disassembly direction 281 is the direction away from the flow generator outlet.

[0451] The handle 280 allows the user to apply force in the disassembly direction 281.

[0452] like Figure 23 and Figure 26 As shown, adapter 126 includes a tab 285 located on a gas flow path 231 between the adapter's gas outlet 223 and the adapter filter inlet 222. The tab 285 extends in a direction perpendicular to the gas flow path 231 between the adapter 126's gas outlet 223 and the adapter filter inlet 222.

[0453] In other examples, such as Figure 29 and Figure 30 As shown. In addition to or instead of the aforementioned tab 285, the tab 285 may be located on the gas flow path 230 and / or between the adapter filter inlet 222 and the adapter filter outlet 221 of the adapter 126.

[0454] The tab can be located at, above, or below, the horizontal portion 400 of the gas flow path 231 between the gas outlet 223 of adapter 126 and the adapter filter inlet 222 of adapter 126. For example... Figure 23 As shown, the tab 285 extends in a generally horizontal direction.

[0455] The tab 285 extends approximately perpendicular to the disassembly direction 288, which detaches the adapter 126 from the humidification chamber 120. The tab 285 allows the user to apply force along the disassembly direction 288, which is away from the humidification chamber.

[0456] In some examples, the user can also use the tab 285 to connect the adapter 126 to the humidification chamber 126.

[0457] The lower surface of the tab 285 includes one or more gripping features 286.

[0458] The gripping feature 286 is shown as a rib, but may also be any one or more of the following: rib, texture, protrusion, fan-shaped portion and / or orifice.

[0459] like Figure 14 , 25 As shown in Figures 2 and 26, adapter 126 may include a cutout 263 located on a horizontal portion of the gas flow path between the gas inlet of the adapter and the adapter filter outlet of the adapter.

[0460] The surface of the cut 263 includes one or more gripping features 264.

[0461] The gripping feature 264 is shown as one or more ribs, but the gripping feature 264 may also be one or more of the following: ribs, textures, protrusions, fan-shaped portions and / or orifices.

[0462] like Figure 24 As shown, the upper surface of the gas flow path between the humidifier gas inlet 270 and the humidified gas outlet 273 includes one or more gripping features 290.

[0463] like Figure 26 As shown, the gas flow path between the humidifier gas inlet 270 and the humidified gas outlet 273 includes a water pipe fixing clamp for fixing the water pipe.

[0464] The gripping feature 290 is shown as a plurality of ribs located within the fan-shaped portion, but the gripping feature 290 may also be one or more of the following: ribs, textures, protrusions, fan-shaped portions and / or openings.

[0465] Atomizer port 272 (as described above and in) Figure 16 and 24 (as shown) has at least one gripping feature 278 on at least a portion of its circumference.

[0466] Figure 29 and 30 Another example of adapter 126 is shown. In this example, humidifying gas outlet 273 extends upward to connect to a conduit (e.g., supply conduit 20).

[0467] One or more retaining features 603 are located at or near the humidifying gas outlet 273. The retaining feature 603 is configured to engage with a complementary feature of the conduit (e.g., a feature on the conduit connector) to secure the conduit to the adapter 126 after connection. Figures 29-31 As shown, in this example, retaining feature 603 is one or more grooves, but in other examples, retaining feature 306 can be one or more protrusions.

[0468] One or more retaining features 603 can enable a detachable connection between the adapter 126 and the conduit.

[0469] The electrical connection between the device and the conduit can be achieved by one or more wires and / or an electrical connector.

[0470] In some examples, when an electrical adapter is used and adapter 126 is directly connected to the conduit, an elbow may not be provided.

[0471] Figure 31 Showing Figure 29 The cross-section shows the gas flow path 231 between the adapter filter inlet 222 and the gas outlet 223. Within this gas flow path 231, as described in more detail above, the gas flow path 231 between the adapter filter inlet 222 and the gas outlet 223 may include a horizontal portion 400 between the adapter filter inlet 222 and the gas outlet 223.

[0472] The horizontal section 400 includes a ramp section 401. The ramp section 401 is configured to drain condensate back into the humidification chamber (via a gas outlet 223 connected to the humidification chamber). The ramp section 401 slopes downward toward the gas outlet 223 to guide water flow toward the gas outlet 223.

[0473] The peripheral wall of gas passage 231 (which may be shared with gas passage 230, for example as shown by reference numeral 402 in the figure) may also be inclined relative to the vertical plane, which ensures that any condensate flows downward toward gas outlet 223 (into the humidification chamber).

[0474] Figure 31 The diagram also shows a humidification chamber gas inlet 140, which engages with a gas outlet 223 of the adapter 126. The humidification chamber gas inlet 140 extends through the gas outlet 223 of the adapter 126 to the bottom of the ramp portion 140. This helps prevent condensate buildup on the top edge of the humidification chamber gas inlet 140. It also reduces condensate buildup between the humidification chamber gas inlet 140 and the ramp portion 140.

[0475] Figure 32 and Figure 33 Another example of an adapter is shown. In this example, the adapter includes a flange 605 that surrounds a gas flow path extending between a humidified gas inlet 270 and a humidified gas outlet 273. The flange 605 may assist when a user removes the conduit connected to the humidified gas outlet 273 and / or provide a mounting location for the electrical adapter, as described in more detail above.

[0476] In some examples, flange 605 extends to atomizer port 272.

[0477] Flange 605 also helps the user remove adapter 126 from humidification chamber 120.

[0478] In some examples, flange 605 may also include / form part of alignment feature 290.

[0479] In some examples, such as Figure 57 As shown, the handle 280 can extend to the flange 290.

[0480] Figure 34 Another example of adapter 126 is shown. In this example, humidifying gas outlet 273 extends toward the front of adapter 126 (e.g., away from the device when the adapter is connected to it). Humidifying gas outlet 273 is generally horizontal (optionally with a slight upward slope to allow condensate to flow back to humidification chamber 120).

[0481] In this example, the atomizer port 272 extends laterally (to the right) to avoid a conduit when connected to the humidified gas outlet 273. The atomizer port 272 also extends upward so that any condensate can flow back to the humidifier gas inlet 270 of the adapter 126.

[0482] Figure 34 An example reference coordinate system for adapter 126 is also shown (this coordinate system applies to other examples, but may need to be adjusted according to the directions shown). The up-down direction is shown as the vertical direction, the left-right direction as the horizontal and / or lateral direction, and the front-back direction as the vertical direction.

[0483] Figure 34 The retaining feature 603 includes a ramp-shaped protrusion configured to engage with a complementary feature of the catheter connector.

[0484] Figure 35 An example of adapter 126 is shown, which includes a humidification chamber section 703, a flow generator section 701, a filter section 702, and an outlet section 704.

[0485] The gas flow path starts from the flow generator, passes through the flow generator section 701 to the filter section 702, passes through the filter section 702 to the humidification chamber section 703 via the filter 200, passes through the humidification chamber 120 (where the gas is humidified) to the outlet section 704, and then passes through the outlet section 704 to the duct (or other components).

[0486] Humidification chamber section 703 is configured to be in fluid communication with humidification chamber 120. Humidification chamber section 703 includes a first port (gas outlet 223) for connecting to humidification chamber inlet 140 and a second port (humidifier gas inlet 270) for connecting to humidification chamber outlet. These port connections enable fluid communication between humidification chamber section 702 and humidification chamber 120.

[0487] The flow generator section 701 is configured to be in fluid communication with a flow generator. The flow generator section 701 includes a flow generator port for connecting to the flow generator outlet.

[0488] Filter section 702 is configured to be in fluid communication with filter 200. Filter section 702 includes a first port (adapter filter outlet 221) and a second port (adapter filter inlet 222). The first port of filter section 702 of adapter 126 is configured to connect to the first port (filter inlet 210) of filter 200. The second port of filter section 702 of adapter 126 is configured to connect to the second port (filter outlet 211) of filter 200. The connection of these ports enables fluid communication between filter section 702 and filter 200.

[0489] The first and second ports of filter section 702 extend upwards. In other examples, the ports may extend at least partially to the side and / or to the front of adapter 126.

[0490] As described in more detail above, filter 200 is configured to connect and disconnect with the filter portion of adapter 126.

[0491] The outlet portion 704 is configured to be in fluid communication with the atomizer port 272 and the outlet (humidified gas outlet 273), which is configured to be in fluid communication with the conduit and / or other components.

[0492] In other examples, atomizer port 272 is configured to be in fluid communication with filter section 702. Atomizer port 272 may be in fluid communication with filter section 702 at a location downstream of filter 200 (e.g., at or near the second port (filter outlet 211)).

[0493] In some examples, atomizer port 272 is configured to be in fluid communication with humidification chamber section 703. Atomizer port 272 may be in fluid communication with humidification chamber section 703 at a location downstream of humidification chamber (e.g., at or near the second port (humidifier gas inlet 270)).

[0494] In some examples, atomizer port 272 is configured to be in fluid communication with a conduit (e.g., supply conduit 20) or other components connected to adapter 126 downstream of the humidification chamber.

[0495] Figure 36 An example of a humidification chamber 120 with a connection adapter 126 is shown, and as follows: Figure 41 and Figure 42 As shown, filter 200 is inserted into filter housing 400.

[0496] Adapter 126 is used to connect flow generator 11 and humidification chamber 120. Adapter 126 can also be connected to filter 200 by inserting filter 200 into filter housing 400.

[0497] The filter housing 400 includes an opening 401 into which the filter 200 can be inserted. The filter 200 can be removed and replaced when needed, while the rest of the adapter 126 and even the humidification chamber 120 may not necessarily need to be replaced.

[0498] exist Figures 36 to 42 In the example, filter housing 400 is cylindrical, and filter 200 is also cylindrical. However, other shapes are also possible, and the shape of filter housing 400 does not have to match the shape of filter 200. For example, in some cases, filter media 202 and / or filter housing 400 may be rectangular cuboids.

[0499] The adapter 126 can be connected to and disconnected from the flow generator 11 and the humidification chamber 120.

[0500] Adapter 126 provides a portion of the gas flow path between flow generator outlet 113 and humidification chamber 120. For example, adapter 126 defines a gas flow path from flow generator outlet 113 to filter 200, and then from filter 200 to humidification chamber 120.

[0501] The gas flow path may be formed by a peripheral wall that is part of the adapter 126. The cross-section of the gas flow path may be generally circular, and / or the cross-section may be one or more composite shapes.

[0502] like Figure 12-41 As shown, adapter 126 includes a gas inlet 220 configured to connect to flow generator outlet 113; and an adapter filter outlet 221 leading to filter housing 400 and configured to be pneumatically connected to filter inlet 210 (e.g., as shown). Figure 41 and 42 As shown), the connection method can be a direct connection between the filter inlet 210 and the adapter filter outlet 221 (as shown). Figure 41 and 42 (as shown), or through a gas passage located between filter inlet 210 and adapter filter outlet 221.

[0503] Adapter 126 also includes an adapter filter inlet 222, which is configured to be pneumatically connected to the filter outlet 211, the connection being possible via a peripheral flow path 410 (e.g., Figure 40 As shown (and will be discussed in detail below), or through a direct connection between filter outlet 211 and adapter filter inlet 222. Figure 39 As shown, the adapter filter inlet 222 of the adapter 126 extends into the filter housing 400. The adapter filter inlet 222 can extend through one side of the filter housing 400. Figure 41 and Figure 42 In the example shown, filter outlet 211 is the outer surface of filter medium 202 (which will be discussed in detail below).

[0504] The adapter 126 also includes a gas outlet 223 configured to be connected to the humidification chamber 120.

[0505] Adapter 126 provides a gas flow path between gas inlet 220 and adapter filter outlet 221, for example, Figure 37 and Figure 42 As indicated by the middle arrow 230. It should be understood that the gas can flow in either direction within this gas flow path (depending on the type of treatment provided by the device and the patient's breathing). For example, as... Figure 42 As shown, the gas flow path extends along the direction from the flow generator toward the central axis of the filter housing 400. Figure 36-42 In the example shown, the central axis of the adapter filter outlet 221 is configured to be substantially aligned with the central axis of the filter housing 400. In other examples, the adapter filter outlet 221 may not be aligned with the central axis of the filter housing 400.

[0506] For example, such as Figure 37 and Figure 42 As shown, the gas flow path between the gas inlet 220 and the adapter filter outlet 221 can extend horizontally from the gas inlet 220 to the adapter filter outlet 221, and the gas inlet 220 and the adapter filter outlet 221 are offset from each other in the horizontal plane. For example, the adapter filter outlet 221 can be closer to the central axis of the filter housing 400 in the horizontal direction than the gas inlet 220.

[0507] like Figure 40 The filter 200, shown and described in more detail below, includes a filter inlet 210 configured to connect to an adapter filter outlet 221 of the adapter 126. The filter 200 also includes a filter outlet 211 configured for pneumatic connection to the adapter filter inlet 222 of the adapter 126 (e.g., as shown below). Figures 36-39(As shown). Filter outlet 211 may pass through filter media 202 or through an opening defined by the filter housing (as described in more detail below).

[0508] like Figure 41 and Figure 42 As shown, filter outlet 211 passes through filter medium 202 to reach peripheral flow path 410. Gas exits filter medium 202 along its outer surface, in this example, along its length (as indicated by the arrow in flow path 410). The gas then flows along peripheral flow path 410 to adapter filter inlet 222. A chamber may be provided at the rear of adapter 126 to guide peripheral flow path 410 to adapter filter inlet 222. In some examples, peripheral flow path 410 may extend around a portion of the periphery of filter medium 202, or around the entire periphery of filter medium 202. In some examples, an end-face flow path may be provided between the end cap and filter medium 202 or filter housing, which is pneumatically connected to peripheral flow path 410.

[0509] The peripheral flow path 410 may be defined by the filter medium 202 and the inner wall of the filter housing 400, for example, when the filter outlet is directly from the filter medium 202. In other examples, the peripheral flow path 410 may be defined by the filter housing and the inner wall of the filter housing 400, for example, when the filter outlet is from the filter housing.

[0510] like Figure 37 and Figure 38 As shown, adapter 126 includes a gas outlet 223 configured to connect to a humidification chamber inlet 140 of humidification chamber 120.

[0511] Adapter 126 provides a gas flow path between adapter filter inlet 222 and gas outlet 223, for example... Figure 37 and Figure 42 As indicated by the middle arrow 231. It should be understood that the gas can flow in either direction within this gas flow path (depending on the type of treatment provided by the device and the patient's breathing).

[0512] like Figure 37 As shown, the gas flow path between the adapter filter inlet 222 and the gas outlet 223 can extend horizontally outward from the adapter filter inlet 222, which leads to the filter housing 400, and then vertically upward to the gas outlet 223.

[0513] When the adapter is connected to the flow generator 11 and the humidification chamber 120, and the filter 200 is connected to the adapter 126, a gas flow path defined by the adapter is formed between the flow generator outlet 113 and the adapter filter outlet 221, a gas flow path defined by the filter 200 is formed between the filter inlet 210 and the filter outlet 211, and a gas flow path defined by the adapter 126 is formed between the adapter filter inlet 222 and the gas outlet 223.

[0514] like Figures 36-38 As shown in Figures 41–42, adapter 126 includes an end cap 404. The end cap 404 is configured to cover the opening 401 of filter housing 400.

[0515] End cap 404 can be configured to help retain filter 200 within filter housing 400. In some examples, such as Figure 41 and 42 As shown, end cap 404 may have ribs 405 extending from end cap into filter housing 400, these ribs being configured to engage with filter 200 (filter medium 202 in this example) to help retain filter 200 within filter housing and to press filter inlet 210 into engagement with adapter filter outlet 221 of adapter 126.

[0516] End cap 404 and / or adapter 126 may include one or more retaining features configured to secure end cap 404 to adapter 126. Retaining features may be, for example, recesses 408 and protrusions 409 (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 36 (As shown).

[0517] The opening 401 of the end cap 404 or filter housing 400 may also include an O-ring configured to form a seal between the end cap 404 and the filter housing 400. Figure 41 and 42 In the middle, an O-ring is provided between the end cap 404 and the adapter 126.

[0518] Figure 40 An example of a filter 200 is shown in the filter receiver 400 of the adapter 126. As described in more detail above, the filter 200 is configured to be inserted into the filter receiver 400 of the adapter 126, such as... Figure 41 and 42 As shown. Filter 200 can be removed and replaced as needed.

[0519] Filter 200 may include filter frame 407, such as Figures 40 to 42As shown. Filter frame 407 includes filter inlet 210, which is configured to connect to adapter filter outlet of adapter 126. Filter frame 407 may be connected to filter media 202 (e.g., by ultrasonic welding, one or more mechanical structures, and / or bonding). Filter media 202 may form a seal with filter frame 407 to prevent gas from passing through filter 200 without passing through filter media 202.

[0520] When filter 200 is inserted into filter housing 400, filter frame 407 engages with adapter 126.

[0521] In some examples, end cap 404 may form part of filter 200 and may be part of and / or attached to filter frame 407 and / or filter media 202. In some examples, rib 405 may be connected to filter media 202 (e.g., by ultrasonic welding, one or more mechanical structures, and / or adhesive). In other examples, one or more separate structural members (e.g., columns or supports) may extend between end cap 404 and filter frame 407.

[0522] In some examples, the filter frame 407 may extend at least partially along the length of the filter medium 202 toward the end cap 404; in other examples, the filter frame 407 may completely cover the filter medium 202.

[0523] Figure 43 Another example of adapter 126 with filter 500 is shown.

[0524] Adapter 126 can be connected to and disconnected from flow generator 11 and humidification chamber 120. Adapter 126 is configured to connect to filter 500.

[0525] Adapter 126 provides a portion of the gas flow path between flow generator outlet 113 and humidification chamber 120. For example, adapter 126 defines a gas flow path from flow generator outlet 113 to filter 500, and then from filter 500 to humidification chamber 120.

[0526] The gas flow path may be formed by a peripheral wall that is part of the adapter 126. The cross-section of the gas flow path may be generally circular, and / or the cross-section may be one or more composite shapes.

[0527] like Figures 43 to 45 As shown, adapter 126 includes a gas inlet 220 configured to be connected to flow generator outlet 113, an adapter filter outlet 221 configured to be connected to filter inlet 210, an adapter filter inlet 222 configured to be connected to filter outlet 211, and a gas outlet 223 configured to be connected to humidification chamber 120.

[0528] like Figure 45 As shown, adapter filter inlet 222 surrounds adapter filter outlet 221. In other examples, adapter filter outlet 221 may also surround adapter filter inlet 222. Figure 21 As shown, the adapter filter inlet 222 and the adapter filter outlet 221 are arranged coaxially.

[0529] Adapter 126 provides a gas flow path from gas inlet 220 to adapter filter outlet 221, for example Figure 45 As indicated by the middle arrow 230. It should be understood that the gas can flow in either direction within this gas flow path (depending on the type of treatment provided by the device and the patient's breathing).

[0530] For example, such as Figure 45 As shown, the gas flow path extends from the flow generator to beyond the humidifier inlet, causing the adapter filter outlet 221 to be located further away from the flow generator than the humidifier inlet. This provides a filter connection that maintains a distance from the humidifier inlet, allowing the filter to bypass the humidifier inlet (since the humidifier inlet can be a vertically projecting structure). Positioning the adapter filter outlet 221 and adapter filter inlet 222 away from the humidifier inlet facilitates the connection of a larger filter 500 with a larger filter medium 202. A larger filter medium 202 can have a smaller filter medium pressure drop.

[0531] For example, such as Figure 45 As shown, the gas flow path from gas inlet 220 to adapter filter outlet 221 can start from gas inlet 220 and extend in a generally horizontal direction toward adapter filter outlet 221, forming a horizontal section.

[0532] The filter 500, which will be described in more detail below, includes a filter inlet 210 configured to connect to an adapter filter outlet 221 of the adapter 126. The filter 500 also includes a filter outlet 211 configured to connect to an adapter filter inlet 222 of the adapter 126 (e.g., ...). Figures 46 to 48 (As shown).

[0533] like Figures 43 to 45 As shown, adapter 126 includes a gas outlet 223 configured to connect to a humidification chamber inlet 140 of humidification chamber 120.

[0534] Adapter 126 also provides a gas flow path between adapter filter inlet 222 and gas outlet 223, for example Figure 45As indicated by the middle arrow 231. It should be understood that the gas can flow in either direction within this gas flow path (depending on the type of treatment provided by the device and the patient's breathing). When the gas flows from the flow generator toward the patient, it enters the adapter filter inlet 222 (located around the adapter filter outlet 221) and is then directed to the gas outlet 223.

[0535] A portion of the gas flow path between the adapter filter inlet 222 and the gas outlet 223 may be located around the gas flow path between the adapter filter outlet 221 and the gas inlet 220. For example, a portion of the gas flow path between the adapter filter inlet 222 and the gas outlet 223 may be defined by the outer surface of the gas flow path between the adapter filter outlet 221 and the gas inlet 220.

[0536] The gas flow path 230 between the gas inlet 220 of adapter 126 and the adapter filter outlet 221 extends within at least a portion of the gas flow path between the gas outlet 223 of adapter 126 and the adapter filter inlet 222 of adapter 126.

[0537] Adapter 126 can be designed as a single adapter to simultaneously define the two gas flow paths indicated by arrows 230 and 231. In other embodiments, a separate adapter can be provided for each gas flow path.

[0538] When the adapter is connected to the flow generator 11, the humidification chamber 120 and the filter 500, a gas flow path defined by the adapter is formed between the flow generator outlet 113 and the adapter filter outlet 221. This gas flow path passes through the filter 500 between the filter inlet 210 and the filter outlet 211, and through the adapter 126 between the adapter filter inlet 222 and the gas outlet 223.

[0539] Figure 46 and Figure 47 The filter 500 is shown disconnected from adapter 126, and filter media 202 and end cap 511 are not installed. Figure 48 A cross-section of a filter 500 with filter media 202 and end caps 511 is shown.

[0540] Figures 49 to 51 Another embodiment of filter 500 is shown. Figure 49 The filter 500 with end cap 511 is shown. Figure 48 A cross-section of another embodiment of a filter 500 with filter media 202 and end caps 511 is shown.

[0541] Filter 500 includes a filter housing 501 and a filter media frame 510. The filter media frame 510 includes a filter housing 503 into which the filter media 202 is inserted, for example, as... Figure 48 As shown. The filter media frame 510 is configured to support the filter media 202 between the filter inlet 210 and the filter outlet 211 for filtering the gas as it passes through the filter media 202.

[0542] exist Figures 46 to 48 In the example, the filter housing 503 is cylindrical with a circular opening for receiving the cylindrical filter media 202. In this example, the filter housing 501 is also generally cylindrical, but it should be understood that other shapes are also possible.

[0543] exist Figures 49 to 52 In the example, the filter housing 503 is a rectangular cuboid with a rectangular opening for receiving the rectangular cuboid filter medium 202. In this example, the filter housing 501 is also approximately a rectangular cuboid, but it should be understood that other shapes are also possible.

[0544] The filter medium 202 can form a seal with the filter medium frame 510 to prevent gas from passing directly through the filter 500 without passing through the filter medium 202.

[0545] The filter media frame 510 includes a filter inlet 210, while the filter housing 501 includes a filter outlet 211.

[0546] exist Figures 46 to 48 as well as Figures 51 to 52 In the example shown, filter outlet 211 surrounds filter inlet 210. This is consistent with... Figure 43 The adapter 126 shown is configured such that the adapter filter inlet 222 (connected to the filter outlet 211) surrounds the adapter filter outlet 221 (connected to the filter inlet 210).

[0547] In other examples, filter inlet 210 surrounds filter outlet 211. This corresponds to another configuration of adapter 126, in which adapter filter outlet 221 (connected to filter inlet 210) surrounds adapter filter inlet 222 (connected to filter outlet 211).

[0548] The filter inlet 210 and the filter outlet 211 can be arranged coaxially.

[0549] like Figure 47 and Figure 51 As shown, the filter inlet 210 and filter outlet 211 can be located at the rear of the filter 500.

[0550] The filter media frame 510 is located inside the filter housing 501. The filter media frame 510 may include one or more ribs 550 extending outward from the filter media frame 510 toward the inner wall of the filter housing. The one or more ribs 550 engage with corresponding recesses in the filter housing 501. In some examples, the recesses may be formed by a pair of projecting guide rails 516, for example... Figure 50 and Figure 52 As shown.

[0551] One or more ribs 550 help position the filter media frame 510 within the filter housing 501 and / or prevent the filter media frame 510 from rotating relative to the filter housing 501. The one or more ribs 550 may be evenly spaced around the filter media frame 510. Figure 50 In the middle, ribs extend from each corner of the square opening of the filter housing 503.

[0552] In some examples, the filter housing 501 may include one or more ribs 550 that extend inward toward the filter media frame 510. In these examples, the filter media frame 510 includes corresponding grooves that engage with the one or more ribs.

[0553] In some examples, the filter media frame 510 and / or filter housing 501 may include multiple sets of ribs. For example, one set faces the front of the filter 500 (e.g., rib 550), and another set faces the rear of the filter 500 (e.g., rib 550). Figure 48 The convex rib 551 shown in the figure.

[0554] In some examples, the first set of protruding ribs may be part of the filter media frame 510, while the groove is part of the filter housing 501; meanwhile, the second set of protruding ribs may be part of the filter housing 501, while the groove is part of the filter media frame 510.

[0555] In other examples, the first set of protruding ribs may be part of the filter housing 501, while the groove is part of the filter media frame 510; meanwhile, the second set of protruding ribs may be part of the filter media frame 510, while the groove is part of the filter housing 501.

[0556] Positioning each set of ribs on the filter housing 501 and the filter media frame 510 respectively can help improve the fixation effect and minimize and / or reduce the rotation or other movement of the filter media frame 510 relative to the filter housing 501.

[0557] In some examples, the first set of ribs may be located in front of the second set of ribs.

[0558] like Figure 50As shown, the filter media frame 510 may include a crossbeam 520. The crossbeam 520 may extend across the filter inlet 210. The crossbeam 520 may reduce the likelihood of a user coming into contact with the filter media 202 when replacing the filter 500. It will be understood that in other examples, one or more crossbeams 520 may be provided, and in some examples, the crossbeams 520 may be arranged in a certain pattern.

[0559] Figure 43 , 48 Figures 49 and 52 show an end cap 511 of filter 500, configured to connect to filter housing 501. End cap 511 can be used to secure filter media 202 within filter housing 503. In some examples, for example... Figure 48 As shown, end cap 511 may have a central portion configured to engage with filter media 202. In other examples, end cap 511 may have ribs extending from end cap 511 into filter housing 503 and configured to engage with filter media 202 to help secure filter media 202 within filter housing 503.

[0560] The end cap 511 and / or filter housing 501 may include one or more securing features for securing the end cap 511 to the filter housing 501. These securing features may be, for example, grooves and protrusions.

[0561] End cap 511 is configured to cover the opening of filter housing 501.

[0562] The opening of the end cap 511 or filter housing 501 may include an O-ring for forming a seal between the end cap 511 and the filter housing 501. In some embodiments, the O-ring may also be provided on the end cap 511. The O-ring may be mounted on the edge of the end cap 511 or on the end face of the filter housing 501.

[0563] End cap 511 can be detachable and reconnectable to allow replacement of filter media 202 without necessarily requiring replacement of adapter 126 or other parts of filter 200.

[0564] like Figure 48 and 52 As shown, the gas flows along the gas flow path 505. The filter inlet 210 is used to guide the airflow through the filter medium 202. After passing through the filter medium 202, the airflow is guided to a peripheral flow path defined by the outer wall of the filter medium frame 510 and the inner wall of the filter housing 501.

[0565] like Figure 48 and 52 As shown, end cap 511 can be used to guide the gas flowing out of the filter media frame to the surrounding flow path.

[0566] The peripheral flow path can be located in part or the entire periphery of the filter media frame 510.

[0567] The peripheral flow path can extend from the front of the filter housing 501 to the filter outlet 211.

[0568] like Figure 48 As shown, a seal 512 is provided to seal the gap between the adapter filter inlet 222 and the filter outlet 221 of the adapter 126. The seal 512 can be installed on the adapter 126 or the filter 500.

[0569] like Figure 52 As shown, a seal 512 is provided to seal the gap between the adapter filter outlet 221 and the filter inlet 210 of the adapter 126. The seal 512 can be installed on the adapter 126 or the filter 500.

[0570] It should be understood that adapter 126 may have the features of adapter 126 described above.

[0571] As described in more detail above, when pressure-based therapy (e.g., bilevel pressure therapy) is provided, filter media 202 helps prevent contamination of the respiratory assist device 10. In pressure-based therapy, the patient exhales through patient interface 30, and the exhaled air can flow down supply conduit 20 toward humidification chamber 120 and flow generator 11. These exhaled air may contain contaminants, and filter media 202 prevents these contaminants from passing upstream of filter media 202.

[0572] As described above, in some examples, the filter medium 202 may have structural elements that help maintain its shape.

[0573] like Figure 53 As shown, the filter medium 202 has three crossbeams 219 that extend across the filter medium 202. The crossbeams 219 help maintain the pleats of the filter medium 202 and help the filter medium 202 maintain its shape.

[0574] As described above, adapter 126, filter 200, flow generator 11, and humidification chamber 120 are all provided with inlets and outlets. For example, these inlets and outlets may be configured as part of a port.

[0575] In some examples, the connection between the inlet and outlet can be one or more of friction fit, sliding fit, and / or interference fit.

[0576] In some examples, interconnected inlets and / or outlets may include seals. These seals may be, for example, O-rings or T-seals that extend around the circumference of the inlet or outlet and are configured to form a seal with the corresponding outlet or inlet of the connected component.

[0577] For example, the adapter filter outlet or filter inlet of the adapter may include a seal for sealing the connection between the adapter filter outlet and the filter inlet. In another example, the adapter filter inlet or filter outlet of the adapter includes a seal for sealing the connection between the adapter filter inlet and the filter outlet.

[0578] The terms "inlet" and "outlet" may or may not indicate the direction of airflow, because gas can flow bidirectionally in the gas flow path depending on the treatment needs.

[0579] Under normal airflow conditions (e.g., from the flow generator to the patient), the gas at the adapter filter inlet can be unfiltered, while the gas at the adapter filter outlet can be filtered. However, it should be understood that unfiltered gas can also pass through the adapter filter inlet due to backflow from the patient.

[0580] It should be understood that throughout the specification, the terms “fluid” and “pneumatic” are used interchangeably to indicate at least the connection / communication of liquids and / or gases between components, and do not necessarily indicate that the liquids and / or gases are under pressure.

[0581] The outer surface of the flow generator outlet 113 can form a seal with the inner surface of the gas inlet 220 of the adapter 126. In other examples, the inner surface of the flow generator outlet 113 can form a seal with the outer surface of the gas inlet 220 of the adapter 126.

[0582] As described above, the adapter's gas outlet 223 is configured to form a seal with the outer surface of the humidification chamber inlet 140. In other examples, the adapter's gas outlet 223 is configured to form a seal with the inner surface of the humidification chamber inlet 140.

[0583] Adapter 126 may also provide at least a portion of the flow path between the humidification chamber outlet and a component.

[0584] This component may be, for example, device outlet port 13, or a conduit (e.g., conduit 127).

[0585] like Figure 43 As shown, adapter 126 includes a humidifying gas inlet 270 configured to be connected to the outlet of the humidification chamber, and a humidifying gas outlet 273 configured to be connected to the inlet of the component.

[0586] Adapter 126 also includes an atomizer port 272. As described above, atomizer port 272 is configurable to receive atomizer and / or atomized particles from an atomizer. In some examples, the atomizer outlet is inserted into atomizer port 272. In other examples, the atomizer outlet can be connected to atomizer port 272 via a connector and / or conduit to deliver atomized particles to atomizer port 272.

[0587] Understandable, such as Figures 36-39 The adapter shown may also include atomizer port 272.

[0588] The adapter 126 may provide only the flow path between the humidification chamber outlet and the component inlet 274, or it may include the aforementioned flow path (e.g., 230, 231) in a single adapter 126.

[0589] Figure 54 An example schematic diagram of a respiratory therapy system 1 is shown, which includes a flow generator 11, a humidifier 12 (although these may be provided as part of the same device), a filter 200, a humidification chamber 120, and a nebulizer port 1602.

[0590] The flow generator is connected to the filter 200 via conduit 1600. The filter 200 is connected to the humidification chamber 120 via conduit 1601.

[0591] The humidification chamber 120 is connected to the atomizer port 272 via a conduit 1602. In some examples, the atomizer port is provided by an atomizer port adapter or is part of the conduit 1602.

[0592] Nebulizer port 272 is connected to the patient via supply catheter 20. In some examples, catheters 1602 and 20 are the same catheter.

[0593] Figure 55 An example of an apparatus with a connected humidification chamber 120, adapter 126, and filter 200 is shown. Figure 55 In the example, adapter 126 is Figure 32 and Figure 33 Adapter 126 in the middle.

[0594] Figure 55 The image also shows one or more stop features and alignment features 290 that engage with the shield 1614, which are described in more detail above.

[0595] Figure 56 Showing Figure 55 An example of a device includes a humidification chamber 120, an adapter 126, and a filter 200, but the supply conduit 20 is connected to the adapter 126 (through the humidification gas outlet 273).

[0596] Figure 57 and Figure 57A An example of adapter 126 is shown. The filter inlet 210 of filter 200 is configured to connect to the filter outlet 221 of adapter 126. A conduit (not shown, but schematically represented as conduit 1500) is configured to connect between the filter outlet 211 of filter 200 and the adapter filter inlet 222. In other examples, the conduit is configured to connect between the filter inlet 210 and the filter outlet 211 of adapter 126.

[0597] exist Figure 57 and Figure 58 In the example, the gas flow path between the inlet 220 of adapter 12 and the outlet 221 of filter is essentially straight. There are no bends that help reduce flow resistance.

[0598] Furthermore, the flow path between the gas inlet 270 and the outlet 273 is essentially straight. The absence of any bends helps reduce flow resistance.

[0599] The inlet 1504 of the conduit 1500 can be configured to connect to the filter outlet 211, and the outlet 1503 of the conduit 1500 can be configured to connect to the adapter filter inlet 222.

[0600] The conduit 1500 may include a tube with a connector at each end. The connectors of the conduit may be configured to connect to corresponding connectors on the filter 200 and / or adapter 126. The connector may be a tapered connection. In some examples, the tube may be permanently connected to the filter and / or adapter, or formed as part of it.

[0601] In some examples, one or more connectors may be formed as part of the tube. In other embodiments, the connector may be an assembly that is connected to the tube.

[0602] The connection between filter 200 and adapter 126 can be... Figure 21 The same as described above.

[0603] The tube can be, for example, flexible or rigid. The flexible tube can be a breathable tube.

[0604] The catheter 1500 can be long enough for clinicians to make decisions about the routing of the tubing. The catheter 1500 can extend upwards and over the filter 200.

[0605] In some examples, conduit 1500 may extend upward from adapter filter inlet 222, allowing any condensate to flow back into the humidification chamber.

[0606] Figure 57The adapter 126 includes an atomizer port 272, but in other examples, an atomizer port may be absent, for example in... Figure 57A Instead, it provides an atomizer adapter port 272.

[0607] In some examples, an atomizer port adapter 1501 may be provided between the filter outlet 211 and the adapter filter inlet 222.

[0608] In some examples, the atomizer port adapter 1501 may be positioned between the conduit 1500 and the adapter filter inlet 222. For example, the atomizer port adapter 1501 may be connected to the outlet 1503 of the conduit 1500 and the adapter filter inlet 222.

[0609] In some examples, the atomizer port adapter 1501 may be positioned between the conduit 1500 and the filter outlet 211.

[0610] The atomizer port adapter may have an inlet and an outlet and includes an atomizer port 272.

[0611] In other examples, a nitric oxide port can be provided for supplying nitric oxide to the gas stream. The nitric oxide port can be located between conduit 1500 and adapter filter inlet 222. For example, the nitric oxide port can be connected to outlet 1503 of conduit 1500 and adapter filter inlet 222.

[0612] exist Figure 57 and Figure 57A In the example, filter 200 may include a filter inlet 210 and a filter outlet 211, which are arranged coaxially or parallel to the axis. This can reduce flow resistance through filter 200 because this design allows for fewer detours compared to situations where the flow path within filter 200 changes direction.

[0613] In addition, because the conduit 1500 has a large turning radius, the gas can gradually change direction along the length of the conduit 1500, which can also reduce flow resistance.

[0614] The catheter may include a tube having a lumen, the inner wall of which may be a smooth hole or a corrugated hole.

[0615] Figure 59 An example of a patient-end connector 2101 for a catheter (e.g., supply catheter 20) is shown. The patient-end connector 2101 is configured to connect to a patient interface at one end and to a tube at the other end.

[0616] In this example, the connection to the patient interface is a tapered fit. For example, the connection uses a 22mm tapered fit. However, it is understood that other types of connections, such as snap-fit ​​connections, can also be used.

[0617] The patient-end connector 2101 may include a connector body 2102. The patient-end connector 2101 may include a clamp 2103. The clamp 2103 can secure the catheter to the connector body 2102. The clamp 2103 can be secured to the connector body 2102 by an overmolding process.

[0618] The patient-end connector 2101 includes at least one sensor for measuring the properties of a gas flowing through the patient-end connector 2101 (e.g., a temperature sensor described in detail above).

[0619] The temperature sensor can be located on a printed circuit board (PCB) 2105 inside the connector body 2102.

[0620] Figure 60 A cross-section of the patient-end connector 2101 is shown.

[0621] PCB 2105 includes a PCB overlay molding that helps protect the PCB and promotes a seal between the PCB and the connector body 2102.

[0622] The electrical connection portion of PCB 2105 is designed to pass through an opening in connector body 2102. This electrical connection portion includes one or more electrical connection terminals for establishing an electrical connection between the conduit conductor and the PCB.

[0623] exist Figure 60 In the example shown, the electrical connection terminals are through-hole pads.

[0624] When the PCB 2105 is inserted into the connector body 2102 and the electrical connection portion passes through the opening in the connector body 2102, the PCB overmolding helps to form a seal with the opening in the connector body 2102. This seal helps prevent the accumulation of medication generated by the nebulizer between the PCB 2105 and the connector body 2102.

[0625] PCB overmolded components may not cover electrical connection terminals so that wires can be connected to these terminals.

[0626] The clamp 2103 of the patient-end connector 2101 helps to seal these electrical connections.

[0627] PCB 2105 also includes a diode 2106 connected in parallel with sensor 2107. When a first polarity voltage (through the conduit wire) is applied across diode 2106 and sensor 2107, the diode conducts, and most of the current flows through the lower-resistance diode path. When a second polarity voltage is applied across diode 2106 and sensor 2107, diode 2106 does not conduct, and current flows through the sensor. The device can then read the electrical characteristics of the sensor (e.g., its resistance if the sensor is a thermistor) via the conduit wire.

[0628] The resistance of this thermistor at 25 degrees Celsius is approximately 1 kΩ to 50 kΩ, or approximately 1 kΩ to 30 kΩ, or approximately 1 kΩ to 10 kΩ, or approximately 1 kΩ to 50 kΩ, or approximately 1 kΩ to 3 kΩ, or approximately 1 kΩ, or approximately 2 kΩ, or approximately 3 kΩ, or approximately 4 kΩ.

[0629] In some embodiments, sensor 2107 may be otherwise configured within the flow path. For example, sensor 2107 may protrude from the sidewall of connector body 2102. In other examples, sensor 2107 may be located within the wall of the connector. Sensor 2107 may be electrically connected to the wires of tube 1201.

[0630] In an alternative embodiment, diode 2106 may be provided as part of patient-side connector 2101. For example, diode 2106 may be disposed on, inside, or outside the wall of connector body 2102. Diode 2106 may be electrically connected to the wires of sensor 2107 and / or tube 1201.

[0631] The diodes and sensors can be spaced apart along the length of the connector, allowing gas to flow in the gap between the two components.

[0632] Figure 61 An example of a device-end connector 2201 for a conduit (e.g., supply conduit 20) is shown. The device-end connector 2201 is configured to connect to a device at one end and to a tube at the other end.

[0633] The device-side connector 2201 includes an inner body 2200 and an outer body 2400. The inner body 2200 and the outer body 2400 together define a gas passage. When the connector is connected to the respiratory therapy system 1 (e.g., to the adapter 126), a pneumatic connection is formed between the gas passage and the device.

[0634] The device end connector 2201 may be of the type described in WO2020035783A1, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0635] The device end connector 2201 also includes an electrical connector 2202. The electrical connector 2202 can be connected to the device via, for example, a detachable elbow or other electrical connector. Figure 61 In the example, the electrical connector 2202 is set as part of the outer body 2400.

[0636] Electrical connector 2202 includes at least one electrical contact. Figure 61 In one example, the electrical contact is one or more pins, but in other examples, the electrical contact can be one or more contact pads.

[0637] The at least one electrical contact may extend in a direction generally parallel to the gas passage defined by the inner body 2200 and the outer body 2400.

[0638] At least one electrical contact is connected to one or more wires in the tube.

[0639] The inner body 2200 and the outer body 2400 can form a sealing engagement when connected. The sealing mechanism may include a sealing protrusion on the outer surface of the inner body 2200 and a complementary sealing groove in the outer body 2400. In other examples, the sealing engagement can be formed by various seals, such as polymer seals, O-rings, dust seals, T-seals, etc.

[0640] The inner body 2200 can be an integral component molded as a single part.

[0641] The inner body 2200 includes a retaining mechanism. This retaining mechanism includes a lever movable relative to the inner body 2200 about a curved region. The lever has a retaining portion on one side of the curved region and an operating portion on the other side. The lever can be moved by pivoting relative to the inner body 2200.

[0642] A cover 2700 can be provided to cover the connector 2201 to surround the various components. The cover 2700 is made of an elastic material. The cover 700 is flexible and elastic.

[0643] Figure 62 A side plan view of a medical tube 1201 is shown. This medical tube 1201 may be a breathing tube, such as an inspiratory tube, or a supply tube 20.

[0644] The tube 1201 includes a wall that defines the lumen.

[0645] The cavity is configured to provide a gas passage for airflow.

[0646] The wall of the tube 1201 may include a first elongated member 1203 and a second elongated member 1205. In other examples, the wall of the tube 1201 may be formed of beads and tape or film. As will be described in more detail below, the beads and / or film may define the lumen of the tube. In other examples, the tube may have a wall formed from a single body (e.g., by extrusion molding).

[0647] "Component" is a broad term and should be understood in its common and customary meaning to those skilled in the art (i.e., not limited to a particular or custom meaning), and includes, but is not limited to, integral parts, integral components, and individual components. The first elongated component 1203 may have a hollow portion 1228, while the second elongated component 1205 may be a structural support or reinforcement for providing additional structural support to the hollow body.

[0648] Figure 63 Showing Figure 62 Longitudinal cross-sectional view of the top of the central tube 1201. Figure 63 The direction and Figure 62 The same. The first elongated member 1203 may have a hollow body shape. The first elongated member 1203 may form a plurality of hollow portions 1228 in its longitudinal section. A portion 1209 of the first elongated member 1203 may overlap an adjacent wound portion of the second elongated member 1205. A portion 1211 of the first elongated member 1203 may constitute at least a portion of the wall of the lumen 1207 (inner cavity). Adjacent hollow portions may be separated by a gap 1213. Figure 62 As shown, the second elongated member 1205 helps maintain the gap 1213 between adjacent hollow portions 1228.

[0649] As described in more detail below, Figure 62 The visible wires 1215 in the second elongated member are shown; however, it can be understood that if the second elongated member were opaque, these wires 1215 would be invisible.

[0650] The first elongated member 1203 and the second elongated member 1205 together form the cavity 1207.

[0651] In some embodiments, the lumen 1207 may have a smooth hole.

[0652] As used herein, the term "smooth orifice" broadly refers to a substantially smooth inner surface extending through the lumen of a medical tube. In some cases, the term "smooth orifice" may describe a tube that does not have significantly repetitive inner surface features (e.g., a tube with an inner surface that is not corrugated, wavy, ribbed, etc.).

[0653] In some cases, the term "smooth hole" can describe a tube in which the grooves (or cavities, recesses, depressions, etc.) inside the tube are minimized, reduced, or completely eliminated.

[0654] Those skilled in the art will understand that the inner surface of a tube made of multiple elongated components can have certain variations. Such minor manufacturing differences, even if they are recurring, are intended to be included within the scope of the term "substantially smooth hole".

[0655] Medical tubing with smooth orifices can minimize or completely prevent laminar gas flow through the channel or lumen defined by the orifice. Increasing the smoothness of the orifice reduces turbulence and creates a more parabolic wavefront on the inner wall of the lumen. Smooth-orifice tubing also avoids grooves where vapor or gas may stagnate, or where condensate and other liquids may accumulate, problems that can arise with corrugated tubing. Therefore, this facilitates the removal of vapors carried by the gas from the tubing and delivers them to the patient.

[0656] In some embodiments, medical tubing with a smooth orifice can enable the catheter to achieve lower flow resistance than a similarly sized catheter with a non-substantially smooth orifice (e.g., a corrugated orifice). Therefore, in some embodiments, the smooth-orifice medical tubing described herein can provide improved performance, efficiency, and / or flow rate compared to other medical tubing.

[0657] It should be understood that a tube with an internally smooth hole can have any external profile (i.e., the external profile of the tube does not necessarily have to be smooth).

[0658] The first elongated member 1203 may include a helically wound hollow body that at least partially forms an elongated tube, having a longitudinal axis LA-LA and a lumen 1207 extending along the longitudinal axis of the tube when the tube is in an extended configuration. The first elongated member 1203 may form a plurality of hollow portions in a longitudinal section. A portion 1211 of the first elongated member 1203 forms at least a portion of the inner wall of the lumen 1207. The first elongated member 1203 may be a tube. In some embodiments, the first elongated member 1203 is flexible. Flexibility refers to the property of being able to bend to withstand strain without permanent deformation or breakage.

[0659] Furthermore, the first elongated member 1203 can be transparent, or at least translucent or semi-opaque. A degree of light transmittance allows caregivers or users to inspect the lumen 1207 for blockages or contaminants, or to confirm the presence of condensation. A variety of plastics, including medical-grade plastics, are suitable for manufacturing the body of the first elongated member 1203. Suitable materials include polyolefin elastomers, polyether block amides, thermoplastic copolyester elastomers, EPDM-polypropylene blends, and thermoplastic polyurethanes.

[0660] In some embodiments, the first elongated member 1203 may be opaque.

[0661] The hollow main structure of the first slender member 1203 helps to enhance the thermal insulation performance of the inspiratory tube 1201. The thermally insulated conduit helps to prevent heat loss. This allows the inspiratory tube 1201 to deliver the gas generated by the humidifier 1107 to the patient with minimal energy consumption while maintaining its regulated state.

[0662] The second elongated member 1205 can also be helically wound. The second elongated member 1205 can be connected to the first elongated member 1203 between adjacent turns. The second elongated member 1205 can form at least a portion of the lumen 1207 of the elongated tube. The second elongated member 1205 can serve as a structural support for the first elongated member 1203. The bottom of the second elongated member 1205 (near the lumen 1207) is wider and the top is narrower.

[0663] The shape of the second slender member can typically be triangular (e.g., Figure 64 and Figure 60 (as shown), T-shaped, Y-shaped, or roughly triangular. However, any shape that conforms to the profile of the corresponding first elongated member 1203 is acceptable.

[0664] The second elongated member 1205 may be flexible to facilitate bending of the tube. In an exemplary embodiment, the second elongated member 1205 is less flexible than the first elongated member 1203. This can improve the structural support capacity of the second elongated member 1205 for the first elongated member 1203. The second elongated member 1205 may be solid or substantially solid.

[0665] A variety of polymers and plastics, including medical-grade plastics, are suitable for manufacturing the body of the second elongated member 1205. Suitable materials include polyolefin elastomers, polyether block amides, thermoplastic copolyester elastomers, EPDM-polypropylene blends, and thermoplastic polyurethanes. The first elongated member 1203 and the second elongated member 1205 can be made of the same material.

[0666] The second elongated member 1205 may encapsulate or accommodate one or more wires 1215. For example, the wires 1215 may be located inside the second elongated member 1205.

[0667] In an exemplary embodiment, the second elongated member 1205 may accommodate a wire 1215 for transmitting information from one or more sensors (not shown). The sensors may include any means configured to detect one or more conditions in the system. For example, sensors may include thermocouples or similar thermal sensors, flow sensors, humidity sensors, barometric pressure sensors, etc.

[0668] In some embodiments, wire 1215 may be a heater wire, serving as a heating element. Wire 1215 may be a resistance heater. In an exemplary embodiment, the second elongated member 1205 may accommodate wires of one or more heating elements. Wire 1215 may be used to generate heat through resistance. The heating element may reduce the cold surface on which condensate forms from the humid gas. The heating element may also be used to alter the temperature distribution of the gas in the lumen 1207 of the intake pipe 1201.

[0669] The diameter of the conductor may be from about 0.10 mm to about 0.3 mm, or from about 0.2 mm to about 0.25 mm, or from about 0.15 mm to about 0.23 mm, or about 0.22 mm or about 0.18 mm.

[0670] In an exemplary embodiment, two heating wires (e.g., two wires 1215) may be encapsulated within a second elongated member 1205. For example, the wires may be located on either side of a "T"-shaped vertical portion. In some embodiments, the second elongated member 1205 is Y-shaped or generally triangular. The heating wires (e.g., wires 1215) may comprise conductive materials, such as alloys of aluminum (Al) and / or copper (Cu), or conductive polymers. In some embodiments, the material forming the second elongated member 1205 is selected such that it does not react with the metal in the heating wires when the heating wires reach their operating temperature. The material forming the second elongated member 1205 may comprise a material with a sufficiently high melting point such that the elongated member 1205 retains its structural properties when the heating wires reach their operating temperature.

[0671] Heating wires 1215 may be spaced apart from the lumen 1207 to prevent these components from being exposed within the lumen 1207. At one end of the composite tube, paired components may form a connecting loop. Multiple wires may be arranged within the second elongated member 1205.

[0672] In some embodiments, the wire 1215 may include at least one heating wire, and optionally a pair of heating wires.

[0673] In some embodiments, wire 1215 may include at least one sensor wire, and optionally a pair of sensor wires.

[0674] Figure 64 and Figure 60 Example measurement results for the tube are shown. Figure 64 Cross-sections of the first elongated member 1203 and the second elongated member 1205 are shown, along with exemplary dimensions.

[0675] D1 is a measure (e.g., pitch) of the distance between adjacent turns of the second elongated member 1205. Figure 64In the example, this distance is the distance between the centers of adjacent loops of the second elongated member 1205. D1 can be about 4 mm to about 5 mm, or about 4.2 mm to about 4.4 mm, or about 4.3 mm to about 4.4 mm, or about 4.3 mm, or about 4.33 mm, or about 4.35 mm, or about 4.36 mm, or about 4.37 mm, or about 4.4 mm. D1 can be about 1 mm to about 10 mm. D1 can be about 1.5 mm to about 8 mm. D1 can be about 2 mm to about 7 mm, or about 2.5 mm to about 5 mm.

[0676] D2 is a measure of the height of the second slender member 1205. Figure 64 In the example, this distance is the distance between the base of the triangle forming part of the lumen 1207 and the vertex of the triangle away from the lumen 1207. D2 can be about 1 mm to about 3 mm, or about 1 mm to about 2 mm, or about 1.4 mm to about 1.6 mm, or about 1.4 mm, or about 1.5 mm, or about 1.6 mm, or about 1.7 mm. D2 can be about 0.1 mm to about 7 mm. D2 can be about 0.2 mm to about 5 mm, or about 0.5 mm to about 3 mm.

[0677] D3 is a measure of the thickness of the outer wall portion of the second slender member 1203. Figure 64 In the example, the thickness is the thickness of the wall of the second elongated member 1203 away from the lumen 1207. D3 can be about 0.1 mm to about 0.3 mm, or about 0.15 mm to about 0.25 mm, or about 0.18 mm to about 0.22 mm, or about 0.18 mm, or about 0.19 mm, or about 0.2 mm, or about 0.21 mm, or about 0.22 mm. D3 can be about 0.05 mm to about 1.5 mm, or about 0.1 mm to about 0.5 mm, or about 0.15 mm to about 0.3 mm. D3 can be about 0.17 mm to about 0.26 mm.

[0678] D4 is a measure based on the tube diameter of the second slender member 1205. Figure 65 In the example, this distance is the external distance relative to the second elongated member 1205. D4 can be about 20 mm to about 23 mm, or about 20 mm to about 22 mm, or about 21 mm to about 22 mm, or about 21 mm, or about 21.7 mm, or about 22 mm. D4 can be about 5 mm to about 40 mm, or about 10 mm to about 30 mm, or about 15 mm to about 15 mm.

[0679] D5 is a measure based on the tube diameter of the first slender member 1203. Figure 65In the example, this distance is the external distance relative to the first elongated member 1203. D5 can be about 20 mm to about 24 mm, or about 20 mm to about 23 mm, or about 22 mm to about 23 mm, or about 22 mm, or about 22.5 mm, or about 22.6 mm, or about 22.7 mm, or about 22.8 mm, or about 23 mm. D5 can also be about 10 mm to about 50 mm, or about 15 mm to about 45 mm, or about 20 mm to about 35 mm. D6 is a measurement of the inner diameter of the pipe. D6 can be about 16 mm to about 20 mm, or about 17 mm to about 19 mm, or about 18 mm to about 19 mm, or about 18 mm, or about 18.2 mm, or about 18.25 mm, or about 18.3 mm, or about 18.5 mm, or about 19 mm.

[0680] The length of the pipe can be approximately 1.7 meters to approximately 1.9 meters, or approximately 1.8 meters to approximately 1.85 meters, or approximately 1.81 meters to approximately 1.83 meters, or approximately 1.81 meters, or approximately 1.82 meters, or approximately 1.83 meters, or approximately 1.84 meters. The length of the pipe can also be approximately 1 meter to approximately 10 meters. The length of the pipe can also be approximately 1.5 meters to approximately 8 meters.

[0681] A respiratory therapy system 1 is also disclosed. The respiratory therapy system 1 includes one or more of the following: a flow generator configured to generate airflow, and a humidifier configured to humidify the airflow, the humidifier including a humidification chamber.

[0682] The respiratory therapy system 1 may also include the adapter 126 and / or filter 200 as described above.

[0683] As described above, the flow generator and / or humidifier can be configured to operate in multiple treatment modes. These multiple treatment modes include at least flow-based respiratory therapy and pressure-based respiratory therapy.

[0684] Because adapter 126 and / or filter 200 are interchangeable in both treatments (as described in more detail above), the respiratory therapy device (i.e., the flow generator and / or humidifier) ​​can switch between multiple treatment modes without replacing adapter 126 and / or filter 200. This means that multiple modes can be provided using the same system without reconfiguration.

[0685] A method for switching a respiratory therapy system 1 between flow-based and pressure-based respiratory therapy is also disclosed. The method includes selecting either flow-based or pressure-based respiratory therapy on a user interface (e.g., user interfaces 133, 154). This user interface may be part of a respiratory assist device or located on another device.

[0686] The respiratory therapy system includes an adapter 126 and / or a filter 200 (as described above).

[0687] When switching between flow-based and pressure-based breathing therapy, the configuration of adapter 126 and / or filter 200 remains unchanged. This means that the same adapter 126 and / or filter 200 can be used for both flow-based and pressure-based breathing therapy without replacement.

[0688] A method for providing one or more respiratory therapies to a patient is also disclosed. The method includes configuring a flow generator 11, a humidifier 12, an adapter 126, a filter 200 connected to the adapter, a supply catheter 20, and a patient interface connected to the supply catheter 20.

[0689] The patient interface is configured to provide patients with flow-based and pressure-based respiratory therapy.

[0690] The method also includes allowing the user to select flow-based or pressure-based respiratory therapy on a user interface (e.g., user interfaces 133, 154). This user interface may be part of a respiratory assist device or located on another device.

[0691] Once selected, the respiratory therapy system can switch between flow-based and pressure-based respiratory therapy.

[0692] A parts kit is also disclosed, which includes one or more of the following components: a humidification chamber, an adapter and / or a filter, and a conduit (e.g., a supply conduit 20).

[0693] Once connected (e.g., all components of the kit are connected as described above), the kit may have flow resistance that allows for both pressure-based and flow-based treatments.

[0694] The flow resistance of the connected kit at a flow rate of 60 LPM can be approximately 2 cmH2O to approximately 6 cmH2O, or approximately 3 cmH2O to approximately 5 cmH2O, or approximately 4 cmH2O to approximately 5 cmH2O, or approximately 3 cmH2O to approximately 5 cmH2O, or approximately 3 cmH2O, or approximately 4 cmH2O, or approximately 5 cmH2O.

[0695] The flow resistance of the connected kit at a flow rate of 150 LPM can be approximately 5 cmH2O to approximately 22 cmH2O, or approximately 8 cmH2O to approximately 20 cmH2O, or approximately 10 cmH2O to approximately 18 cmH2O, or approximately 12 cmH2O to approximately 16 cmH2O, or approximately 12 cmH2O, or approximately 13 cmH2O, or approximately 14 cmH2O, or approximately 15 cmH2O.

[0696] In some examples, flow resistance can be measured when the conduit is in a straight direction.

Claims

1. A filter and adapter for a respiratory assist device, comprising: An adapter, capable of connecting to a flow generator configured to generate airflow and a humidification chamber of a humidifier, the adapter providing at least a portion of the gas flow path between the flow generator outlet and the humidification chamber inlet. The adapter includes a gas inlet configured to connect to the outlet of the flow generator, and a gas outlet configured to connect to the inlet of the humidification chamber. A filter includes a filter housing and a filter medium. The filter housing includes a filter inlet and a filter outlet, and the filter medium is located within the filter housing, between the filter inlet and the filter outlet, to filter gas as it flows through the filter medium. The adapter further includes an adapter filter outlet and an adapter filter inlet, the adapter filter outlet being configured to be connected to the filter inlet or via a conduit, and the adapter filter inlet being configured to be connected to the filter outlet or via a conduit. The adapter provides: a) a gas flow path between the adapter's gas inlet and the adapter's adapter filter outlet, and b) a gas flow path between the adapter's gas outlet and the adapter's adapter filter inlet.

2. The filter and adapter according to claim 1, wherein, The gas flow path between the outlet of the flow generator and the inlet of the humidification chamber is defined by the following: the gas flow path from the flow generator to the filter is defined by the adapter; the gas flow path through the filter is defined by the filter housing; and the gas flow path from the filter to the humidification chamber is defined by the adapter.

3. The filter and adapter according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The adapter filter outlet and / or the adapter filter inlet of the adapter are vertically oriented.

4. The filter and adapter according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The filter is configured to be vertically connected to the adapter.

5. The filter and adapter according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The connection between the adapter filter outlet and the filter inlet of the adapter can be one or more of the following: Friction fit, Sliding connection, Overcompensation.

6. The filter and adapter according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The adapter filter outlet or the filter inlet of the adapter includes a seal configured to seal the connection between the adapter filter outlet and the filter inlet.

7. The filter and adapter according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The connection between the adapter filter inlet and the filter outlet of the adapter can be one or more of the following: Friction fit, Sliding connection, Overcompensation.

8. The filter and adapter according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The adapter filter inlet or the filter outlet of the adapter includes a seal configured to seal the connection between the adapter filter inlet and the filter outlet.

9. The filter and adapter according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The filter media is configured to reduce and / or prevent any contaminants and / or water and / or aerosols or other particulate matter from passing through the filter.

10. The filter and adapter according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, The adapter filter outlet of the adapter and / or the filter outlet includes anti-misconnection features to prevent connection between the adapter filter outlet and the filter outlet.

11. The filter and adapter according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, The adapter filter inlet of the adapter and / or the filter inlet includes anti-misconnection features to prevent connection between the adapter filter inlet and the filter inlet.

12. The filter and adapter according to claim 11, wherein, The anti-misconnection feature is one or more of the following: groove, protrusion, bonding feature and / or different diameter.

13. The filter and adapter according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein, The filter does not require the correct flow direction.

14. The filter and adapter according to claim 13, wherein, The filter has the correct flow direction, and one or both of the filter and the adapter include anti-misconnection features to allow the filter and the adapter to be connected only in the correct flow direction.

15. The filter and adapter according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein, The downstream surface of the filter medium is coated with a hydrophobic material.

16. The filter and adapter according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein, The adapter can be connected to and disconnected from the flow generator and the humidification chamber.

17. The filter and adapter according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein, The adapter also provides at least a portion of the flow path between the humidification chamber outlet and the component.

18. The filter and adapter according to claim 17, wherein, The component is a device outlet port or a conduit.

19. The filter and adapter according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein, The adapter includes a humidifying gas inlet configured to connect to the outlet of the humidification chamber and a humidifying gas outlet configured to connect to the component.

20. The filter and adapter according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein, The adapter is formed as a single component.

21. The filter and adapter according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein, The upper surface of the filter inlet and / or filter outlet includes one or more gripping features.

22. The filter and adapter according to any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein, The filter housing includes one or more gripping features.

23. An adapter for connecting a filter to a flow generator and a humidification chamber, the adapter being connectable to the humidification chamber of the flow generator and the humidifier, the adapter comprising: A gas inlet configured to connect to the outlet of the flow generator, a gas outlet configured to connect to the inlet of the humidification chamber, an adapter filter outlet configured to connect to the filter inlet or to the filter inlet via a conduit, and an adapter filter inlet configured to connect to the filter outlet or to the filter outlet via a conduit. The adapter is configured to provide: a) a gas flow path between the gas inlet of the adapter and the adapter filter outlet of the adapter and b) a gas flow path between the gas outlet of the adapter and the adapter filter inlet of the adapter.

24. The adapter according to claim 23, wherein, The adapter also includes one or more alignment features configured to engage with corresponding features of the flow generator.

25. The adapter according to claim 24, wherein, The corresponding feature is located on the protective cover of the flow generator.

26. The adapter according to claim 24 or 25, wherein, The one or more alignment features are configured to help properly align the adapter (and the humidification chamber, if the humidification chamber is connected to the adapter) in one or more of the following directions: lateral (left or right), upward, and / or downward.

27. The adapter according to any one of claims 24 to 26, wherein, The one or more alignment features are located at or near the gas inlet of the adapter, and the alignment features are configured to engage with corresponding features on the flow generator shroud.

28. The adapter according to any one of claims 24 to 27, wherein, One or more alignment features of the adapter include at least one protrusion with at least one bevel, and the corresponding feature of the flow generator is a groove with a corresponding bevel.

29. The adapter according to claim 28, wherein, The protrusion is V-shaped, and the groove is a corresponding V-shape.

30. The adapter according to any one of claims 24 to 29, wherein, One or more alignment features of the adapter include grooves, and the corresponding feature of the shield is a protrusion.

31. The adapter according to any one of claims 24 to 30, wherein, One or more alignment features of the adapter are located on the upper surface of the gas flow path between the gas inlet of the adapter and the outlet of the adapter filter.

32. The adapter according to any one of claims 24 to 31, wherein, One or more alignment features of the adapter include channels or ribs configured to engage with corresponding ribs or channels of the flow generator housing to help the user align the adapter with the flow generator during connection and disconnection.

33. The adapter according to claim 32, wherein, The channels and ribs help maintain alignment between the flow generator outlet and the adapter's gas inlet during the process of connecting the adapter's gas inlet to the flow generator outlet and / or connecting the humidified gas outlet to the assembly.

34. The adapter according to any one of claims 24 to 33, wherein, The one or more alignment features are located between the gas inlet and the humidified gas outlet.

35. The adapter according to any one of claims 22 to 34, wherein, The adapter includes a handle configured to allow the adapter to be detached from the flow generator.

36. The adapter according to claim 35, wherein, The handle extends from the vertical portion of the gas flow path between the gas inlet of the adapter and the outlet of the adapter filter.

37. The adapter according to any one of claims 35 or 36, wherein, The handle extends in a direction perpendicular to the vertical portion.

38. The adapter according to any one of claims 35 to 37, wherein, The handle extends in a generally horizontal direction.

39. The adapter according to any one of claims 35 to 38, wherein, The handle extends in a direction generally perpendicular to the disassembly direction in which the adapter is removed from the flow generator.

40. The adapter according to any one of claims 35 to 39, wherein, The handle allows the user to apply force in the disassembly direction.

41. The adapter according to claim 40, wherein, The disassembly direction is away from the outlet of the flow generator.

42. The adapter according to any one of claims 23 to 41, wherein, The adapter includes a tab located on the gas flow path between the adapter's gas outlet and the adapter filter inlet.

43. The adapter according to claim 42, wherein, The protrusion extends along a direction perpendicular to the gas flow path between the gas outlet of the adapter and the filter inlet of the adapter.

44. The adapter according to claim 42 or 43, wherein, The tab is located at, above, or below, the horizontal portion of the gas flow path between the gas outlet of the adapter and the inlet of the adapter filter.

45. The adapter according to any one of claims 42 to 44, wherein, The lower surface of the tab includes one or more gripping features.

46. ​​The adapter according to claim 45, wherein, The gripping features are one or more of the following: ribs, textures, protrusions, fan-shaped portions and / or openings.

47. The adapter according to any one of claims 42 to 46, wherein, The tabs extend in a generally horizontal direction.

48. The adapter according to any one of claims 42 to 47, wherein, The tab extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the disassembly direction in which the adapter is removed from the humidification chamber.

49. The adapter according to any one of claims 42 to 48, wherein, The tab allows the user to apply force in the disassembly direction.

50. The adapter according to claim 50, wherein, The disassembly direction is away from the humidification chamber.

51. The adapter according to any one of claims 23 to 50, wherein, The adapter includes a cutout located on the horizontal portion of the gas flow path between the gas inlet of the adapter and the adapter filter outlet of the adapter.

52. The adapter according to claim 51, wherein, The surface of the cut includes one or more gripping features.

53. The adapter according to claim 51 or 52, wherein, The gripping features are one or more of the following: ribs, textures, protrusions, fan-shaped portions and / or openings.

54. The adapter according to any one of claims 23 to 53, wherein, The adapter also provides at least a portion of the flow path between the humidification chamber outlet and the component, and wherein the adapter includes a humidification gas inlet configured to be connected to the humidification chamber outlet and a humidification gas outlet configured to be connected to the component.

55. The adapter according to claim 54, wherein, The upper surface of the gas flow path between the humidifier gas inlet and the humidified gas outlet includes one or more gripping features.

56. The adapter according to claim 55, wherein, The gripping features are one or more of the following: ribs, textures, protrusions, fan-shaped portions and / or openings.

57. The adapter according to any one of claims 54 to 56, wherein, The adapter includes an atomizer port configured to introduce atomized particles into a gas flow path between the humidification chamber outlet and the component.

58. The adapter according to claim 57, wherein, The atomizer port includes at least one gripping feature on at least a portion of its circumference.

59. The adapter according to claim 57 or 58, wherein, The atomizer port extends in one or more of the following directions: away from the filter, or at an angle to the horizontal and / or vertical plane.

60. A filter and adapter for a respiratory assist device, comprising: An adapter, capable of connecting to a flow generator configured to generate airflow and a humidification chamber of a humidifier, the adapter providing at least a portion of the gas flow path between the flow generator outlet and the humidification chamber inlet. The adapter includes a gas inlet configured to connect to the outlet of the flow generator, and a gas outlet configured to connect to the inlet of the humidification chamber. The adapter also includes a filter housing configured to receive at least a portion of a filter, the filter being inserted into an opening in the filter housing, the filter housing having an adapter filter outlet configured to be connected to a filter inlet, and an adapter filter inlet configured to be connected to the filter outlet. When the filter is inserted into the filter housing, a flow path is formed between the adapter filter outlet and the filter inlet, and between the adapter filter inlet and the filter outlet. The filter includes a filter frame and a filter medium, which is supported by the filter frame between the filter inlet and the filter outlet, and is used to filter gas as it passes through the filter medium. The adapter provides: a) a gas flow path between the gas inlet of the adapter and the outlet of the adapter filter and b) a gas flow path between the gas outlet of the adapter and the inlet of the adapter filter.

61. A filter and adapter for a respiratory assist device, comprising: An adapter, which connects to a flow generator and a humidification chamber, provides a first flow path between the flow generator outlet and the filter, and a second flow path between the filter and the humidification chamber inlet. A filter comprising a filter frame and a filter medium, the filter including a filter inlet and a filter outlet, the filter medium being located between the filter inlet and the filter outlet for filtering gas as it passes through the filter medium.

62. A filter and adapter for a respiratory assist device, comprising: An adapter, capable of connecting to a flow generator configured to generate airflow and a humidification chamber of a humidifier, the adapter providing at least a portion of the gas flow path between the flow generator outlet and the humidification chamber inlet. The adapter includes a gas inlet configured to connect to the outlet of the flow generator, and a gas outlet configured to connect to the inlet of the humidification chamber. The adapter also includes an adapter filter outlet configured to be connected to a filter inlet and an adapter filter inlet configured to be connected to the filter outlet, wherein the adapter filter inlet surrounds the adapter filter outlet, or the adapter filter outlet surrounds the adapter filter inlet. The filter includes a filter housing, a filter media frame, and a filter media. The filter media is supported by the filter media frame between the filter inlet and the filter outlet for filtering gas as it passes through. The filter media frame includes the filter inlet, and the filter housing includes the filter outlet. in: c) The adapter filter inlet of the adapter surrounds the adapter filter outlet of the adapter, and the filter outlet of the filter surrounds the filter inlet of the filter, or d) The adapter filter outlet of the adapter outlet surrounds the adapter filter inlet of the adapter, and the filter inlet of the filter surrounds the filter outlet of the filter, and The adapter provides: a) a gas flow path between the gas inlet of the adapter and the outlet of the adapter filter and b) a gas flow path between the gas outlet of the adapter and the inlet of the adapter filter.

63. A filter and adapter for a respiratory assist device, comprising: The adapter provides the gas flow path between the flow generator and the filter, and between the filter and the humidification chamber. The adapter also includes a filter housing configured to accommodate at least a portion of the filter, the filter being inserted into an opening in the filter housing, the filter inlet being pneumatically connected to a flow generator via the adapter, and the filter outlet being pneumatically connected to a humidification chamber via the adapter. The filter includes a filter frame and a filter medium, which is supported by the filter frame between the filter inlet and the filter outlet for filtering gas as it passes through the filter medium.

64. An adapter for a respiratory assist device, the adapter comprising: The humidification chamber section is configured to connect to and be in fluid communication with the humidification chamber. The flow generator section is configured to connect to and be in fluid communication with the flow generator. The filter section is configured to connect to and be in fluid communication with the filter. An outlet portion, configured to be in fluid communication with an outlet, said outlet being configured to be in fluid communication with a conduit and / or component, and The gas flow path is provided by an adapter and / or one or more conduits, the gas flow path being from the flow generator through the flow generator section to the filter section, from the filter section through the filter to the humidification chamber section, from the humidification chamber through the humidification chamber to the outlet section, and from the outlet section to the conduit.

65. The adapter of claim 64, wherein the atomizer port is configured to be in fluid communication with one or more of the following: a filter portion located downstream of the filter, a humidification chamber portion (optionally located downstream of the humidification chamber), an outlet portion, or a conduit or assembly of the adapter connected downstream of the humidification chamber.

66. The adapter of claim 64 or 65, wherein the filter portion includes a first port and a second port, wherein the first port of the filter portion of the adapter is configured to be connected to a first port of the filter, and the second port of the filter portion of the adapter is configured to be connected to a second port of the filter, wherein the connection of these ports provides fluid communication between the filter portion and the filter.

67. The adapter of claim 66, wherein the first port and the second port of the filter portion extend in an upward direction.

68. The adapter according to any one of claims 64 to 67, wherein the filter is configured to be able to connect to and disconnect from a filter portion of the adapter.

69. The adapter according to any one of claims 64 to 68, wherein the humidification chamber portion includes a first port and a second port, wherein the first port of the humidification chamber portion of the adapter is configured to be connected to a first port of the humidification chamber, and the second port of the humidification chamber portion of the adapter is configured to be connected to a second port of the humidification chamber, wherein the connection of these ports provides fluid communication between the humidification chamber portion and the humidification chamber.

70. The adapter according to any one of claims 64 to 69, wherein the filter portion and / or the filter when connected to the filter portion is located upstream of the outlet portion.

71. The adapter according to any one of claims 64 to 70, wherein the atomizer port of the outlet portion is configured to extend at an angle to the horizontal direction.

72. The adapter according to any one of claims 64 to 71, wherein the filter comprises a filter medium.

73. The adapter according to claim 72, wherein the filter medium comprises one or more of glass fiber, polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyamide (nylon), and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE).

74. The adapter of claim 73, wherein the filter medium is a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter medium.

75. The adapter according to any one of claims 64 to 74, wherein at least a portion of the gas flow path defined by the various parts of the adapter is formed by a peripheral wall.

76. The adapter according to any one of claims 66 to 75, wherein a conduit is provided between the filter portion and the filter, optionally, the conduit being located between a first port of the adapter and a first port of the filter and / or between a second port of the adapter and a second port of the filter.

77. A method for switching a respiratory therapy system, the respiratory therapy system including a respiratory assist device, the method switching between flow-based respiratory therapy and pressure-based respiratory therapy by selecting one of flow-based respiratory therapy and pressure-based respiratory therapy on a user interface, wherein the respiratory therapy system includes an adapter and / or filter as described in any of the preceding claims, and the configuration of the adapter and / or filter remains unchanged when switching between flow-based respiratory therapy and pressure-based respiratory therapy.

78. A method of providing one or more respiratory therapies to a patient, the method comprising: Equipped with a flow generator, humidifier, adapter, filter connected to the adapter, supply catheter, and patient interface connected to the supply catheter, the patient interface is configured to provide the patient with flow-based and pressure-based respiratory therapy, and the user selects between flow-based and pressure-based respiratory therapy on a user interface, and switches between flow-based and pressure-based respiratory therapy according to the selection.

79. The method of claim 77 or 78, wherein the flow-based treatment is a high-flow treatment.

80. The method according to any one of claims 77 to 79, wherein the pressure-based treatment is: continuous positive airway pressure or bilevel ventilation.

81. A respiratory therapy system, comprising: A flow generator, which is configured to produce airflow. A humidifier configured to humidify the airflow, the humidifier including a humidification chamber, An adapter and / or a filter, wherein the adapter and / or filter is defined by any one of claims 1 to 76.

82. The respiratory therapy system of claim 81, wherein the flow generator and / or the humidifier is configured to operate in multiple treatment modes.

83. The respiratory therapy system of claim 82, wherein the multiple treatment modes include flow-based respiratory therapy and pressure-based respiratory therapy.

84. The respiratory therapy system of claim 82 or 83, wherein the flow generator and / or the humidifier are capable of switching between the multiple treatment modes without replacing the adapter and / or filter.

85. A catheter for breathing gases, the catheter comprising: A conduit comprising a wall defining a lumen configured to provide a gas passage for airflow, the conduit having one or more of the following: The pitch is approximately 4.2 mm to approximately 4.4 mm. The inner diameter is approximately 18mm to approximately 19mm. The length is approximately 1.7m to about 1.9m.

86. The catheter of claim 85, wherein the catheter is configured to be connected to the adapter of any one of claims 1 to 76.

87. The conduit according to claim 85 or 86, wherein the wall of the conduit comprises a first elongated member and a second elongated member.

88. A parts kit comprising one or more of the following: a humidification chamber, an adapter and / or filter according to any one of claims 1 to 76, and a conduit.

89. The parts kit according to claim 88, wherein the conduit is the conduit of any one of claims 85 to 87.

90. The component kit according to claim 89 or 90, wherein, in the connected state, the kit has a flow resistance of approximately 2 cmH2O to approximately 6 cmH2O, or approximately 3 cmH2O to approximately 5 cmH2O, or approximately 4 cmH2O to approximately 5 cmH2O, or approximately 3 cmH2O to approximately 5 cmH2O, or approximately 3 cmH2O, or approximately 4 cmH2O, or approximately 5 cmH2O.

91. The component kit according to any one of claims 88 to 90, wherein, in the connected state, the kit has a flow resistance of about 5 cmH2O to about 22 cmH2O, or about 8 cmH2O to about 20 cmH2O, or about 10 cmH2O to about 18 cmH2O, about 12 cmH2O to about 16 cmH2O, or about 12 cmH2O, or about 13 cmH2O, or about 14 cmH2O, or about 15 cmH2O at a flow rate of 150 LPM.

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