Valve unit for respiratory support system

Abstract

A valve unit (10) for a respiratory support system is provided for a fluid supply chamber (20) of a respiratory support system (100) that provides a humidified respiratory gas. The valve unit comprises a first port (11) and a second port (12) and a fluid passage (14) formed therebetween. The valve unit further comprises a valve (13) arranged in the fluid passage (14) for controlling the flow of fluid between the first port (11) and the second port (12). The valve is arranged to seal an inner surface (21) of the fluid supply chamber (20) close to the first port (11) and an outer surface (22) of the fluid supply chamber (20) close to the second port (12) when the valve unit (10) is connected to the fluid supply chamber (20).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to respiratory support systems. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to accessories for use with respiratory support systems that provide humidified breathing gases to a user. Background Art

[0002] Some conventional respiratory support systems include a humidification chamber that can be connected to an auxiliary fluid supply chamber. The humidification chamber contains water for humidifying the airflow passing through the humidification chamber. Sometimes the amount of water that the humidification chamber can hold is insufficient for an entire treatment session, so the water may run out before the treatment session is complete. By connecting an auxiliary fluid supply chamber (e.g., a water bottle) to the humidification chamber, running out of water can be prevented.

[0003] Some traditional auxiliary fluid supply chambers include a spike port that allows water to be released from the auxiliary fluid supply chamber after being engaged with the spike port. The humidification chamber may have a permanently attached pipe with a spike connector at the other end. In order to obtain the fluid of the auxiliary fluid supply chamber, it is necessary to insert the spike connector into the spike port of the auxiliary fluid supply chamber. The spike port generally includes a membrane that needs to be pierced to allow water to flow from the fluid supply chamber to the humidification chamber. However, piercing the membrane may be associated with the risk of damaging the spike port, which may therefore cause undesirable leakage.

[0004] Therefore, a fluid supply chamber solution that can overcome the problems of the prior art or provide the public with a useful choice would be advantageous. Utility Model Content

[0005] The present disclosure relates to a valve unit (hereinafter also referred to as a "bottle tip port") and an associated fluid supply chamber to allow fluid to flow from the fluid supply chamber to a humidification chamber of a respiratory support system and overcomes problems or provides the public with a beneficial choice.

[0006] In a first embodiment, a valve unit may be provided for a fluid supply chamber of a respiratory support system, the respiratory support system providing humidified respiratory gas, the valve unit comprising: a first port and a second port, and a fluid channel formed therebetween; a valve arranged in the fluid channel for controlling the flow rate of fluid between the first port and the second port; a first sealing member having a first sealing surface, the first sealing surface being arranged to seal an inner surface of the fluid supply chamber near the first port when the valve unit is connected to the fluid supply chamber; and a second sealing member having a second sealing surface, the second sealing surface being arranged to seal an outer surface of the fluid supply chamber near the second port when the valve unit is connected to the fluid supply chamber.

[0007] In at least one example with reference to the first aspect, at least one of the first sealing member, the second sealing member, the valve and / or the valve unit is reversibly or elastically deformable so that the valve unit is under tension when connected to the fluid supply chamber.

[0008] In at least one example referring to the first scheme, in a non-connected rest state, the first sealing surface and the second sealing surface are arranged at a closest distance from each other that is smaller than a closest distance between the first sealing surface and the second sealing surface when the valve unit is connected to the fluid supply chamber.

[0009] In at least one example referring to the first aspect, the valve in the rest state is closed to prevent fluid from entering the first port and flowing therethrough to the second port.

[0010] In at least one example referring to the first aspect, the valve in the engaged state opens to allow fluid entering the first port to flow therethrough to the second port.

[0011] In at least one example referring to the first aspect, the valve reaches its engaged state when a prong connector inserted into the fluid passage engages the valve.

[0012] In at least one example with reference to the first aspect, the valve is a one-way valve or a check valve.

[0013] In at least one example referring to the first aspect, the valve is a duckbill valve arranged to open when a pointed connector inserted into the fluid passage engages the duckbill valve.

[0014] In at least one example referring to the first aspect, the valve unit has a tubular or cylindrical cross-sectional shape.

[0015] In at least one example referring to the first aspect, the first sealing member forms a flange and / or the second sealing member forms a flange.

[0016] In at least one example referring to the first aspect, the first sealing member has a first material or structural feature and the second sealing member has a second material or structural feature, wherein the first material or structural feature and the second material or structural feature are selected to allow reversible deformation.

[0017] In at least one example referring to the first aspect, the first material characteristic and the second material characteristic are related to at least one of elastic modulus and yield strength.

[0018] In at least one example referring to the first aspect, the first material characteristic and the second material characteristic are the same.

[0019] In at least one example referring to the first aspect, the first structural feature and / or the second structural feature is related to thickness.

[0020] In at least one example referring to the first aspect, the valve unit is made of an elastomeric material.

[0021] In at least one example referring to the first aspect, the first sealing surface is not integrally formed with the fluid supply chamber or is removable from the fluid supply chamber.

[0022] In at least one example referring to the first aspect, the first sealing surface is formed integrally with the fluid supply chamber.

[0023] In at least one example with reference to the first scheme, the valve unit includes a body extending between the first port and the second port, wherein the body is made of a material that can be reversibly or elastically deformed to allow a closest distance between the first sealing surface and the second sealing surface to increase from a closest distance in a non-connected state to a closest distance when the valve unit is connected to the fluid supply chamber, so that when the valve unit is connected to the fluid supply chamber, the valve unit is in a tensioned state.

[0024] In at least one example with reference to the first scheme, the valve also includes: a first flexible baffle member having a first baffle sealing surface extending between its two corresponding lateral ends, and a second flexible baffle member having a second sealing surface extending between its two corresponding lateral ends, wherein the first baffle sealing surface and the second sealing surface are arranged to: engage with each other to form a seal to close the valve in a rest state, and disengage from each other to open the valve in an engaged state, thereby allowing fluid to flow through the valve, wherein each lateral terminal end of the first baffle sealing surface and the second baffle sealing surface is connected to the inner wall of the valve unit.

[0025] In at least one example referring to the first aspect, each lateral terminal end of the first baffle sealing surface is integrally formed with a corresponding lateral terminal end of the second baffle sealing surface.

[0026] In at least one example with reference to the first aspect, when the prong connector has been inserted into the fluid passage to engage the valve, the first and second flapper sealing surfaces in engagement engage at least a portion of an outer surface of the prong connector.

[0027] In at least one example referring to the first aspect, the inner wall forms a portion of the fluid channel.

[0028] In at least one example referring to the first aspect, the inner wall has a higher structural integrity than the first flexible baffle member and / or the second flexible baffle member.

[0029] In at least one example referring to the first aspect, the inner wall has a greater hardness, thickness, and / or rigidity than the first flexible barrier member and / or the second flexible barrier member.

[0030] In at least one example referring to the first aspect, each lateral terminal end of the first baffle sealing surface and the second baffle sealing surface is formed integrally with the inner wall of the valve unit.

[0031] In at least one example with reference to the first scheme, the fluid channel is formed by an inner wall of the valve unit and extends along the longitudinal center axis of the valve unit, and the fluid channel includes: a first section of the inner wall close to the second port, which has a first cross-section; a second section of the inner wall, which extends from an end of the first section along the longitudinal axis and has a second cross-section larger than the first cross-section, wherein the first section of the inner wall is arranged to engage the pointed connector when the pointed connector is inserted into the fluid channel to engage the valve.

[0032] In at least one example referring to the first aspect, the valve is disposed between the first port and the second section.

[0033] In at least one example referring to the first aspect, the second cross-section gradually increases along the longitudinal axis toward the first port.

[0034] In at least one example referring to the first aspect, the first segment or the second segment extends symmetrically around the longitudinal center axis.

[0035] In at least one example referring to the first aspect, the first section is made of a reversibly or elastically deformable material such that the first section is placed under tension when the prong connector is inserted into the fluid passage to engage the valve.

[0036] In at least one example referring to the first aspect, when the prong connector is inserted into the fluid passage to engage the valve, the first section forms a seal with a corresponding outer section of the prong connector.

[0037] In at least one example referring to the first aspect, when the prong connector is inserted into the fluid passage to engage the valve, the first section forms an interference fit with the entire periphery of the prong connector.

[0038] In at least one example referring to the first scheme, the fluid channel is formed along the longitudinal center axis of the valve unit, and wherein the valve is arranged longitudinally in the fluid channel between the first port and the second port for controlling the flow rate of the fluid between the first port and the second port.

[0039] In at least one example with reference to the first aspect, the valve is arranged in the fluid passage along the longitudinal central axis between a first point of the longitudinal central axis and the second port, wherein the first point is related to a point of the longitudinal central axis that intersects a plane including the first sealing surface.

[0040] In at least one example with reference to the first scheme, the valve is arranged in the fluid channel along the longitudinal center axis between a first point of the longitudinal center axis and the second port, wherein the first point is defined by a point of the longitudinal axis intersecting a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal center axis, and the plane intersecting a point of the first sealing surface closest to the second port.

[0041] In a second embodiment, a valve unit can be provided for a fluid supply chamber of a respiratory support system, the respiratory support system providing humidified respiratory gas, the valve unit comprising: a first port and a second port, and a fluid channel formed therebetween; a valve arranged in the fluid channel for controlling the flow of fluid between the first port and the second port; the valve comprising: a first flexible baffle member having a first baffle sealing surface extending between its two corresponding lateral ends, a second flexible baffle member having a second sealing surface extending between its two corresponding lateral ends, wherein the first baffle sealing surface and the second sealing surface are arranged to: engage with each other to form a seal, thereby closing the valve in a rest state, and disengage from each other to open the valve in an engaged state, thereby allowing fluid to flow through the valve, wherein each lateral terminal end of the first baffle sealing surface and the second baffle sealing surface is connected to the inner wall of the valve unit.

[0042] In at least one example referring to the second aspect, each lateral terminal end of the first baffle sealing surface is integrally formed with a corresponding lateral terminal end of the second baffle sealing surface.

[0043] In at least one example with reference to the second aspect, when a prong connector has been inserted into the fluid passage to engage the valve, the first and second flapper sealing surfaces in engagement engage at least a portion of an outer surface of the prong connector.

[0044] In at least one example referring to the second aspect, the inner wall forms a portion of the fluid channel.

[0045] In at least one example referring to the second aspect, the inner wall has a higher structural integrity than the first flexible baffle member and / or the second flexible baffle member.

[0046] In at least one example referring to the second aspect, the inner wall has a greater hardness, thickness, and / or rigidity than the first flexible baffle member and / or the second flexible baffle member.

[0047] In at least one example referring to the second aspect, each lateral terminal end of the first baffle sealing surface and the second baffle sealing surface is formed integrally with the inner wall of the valve unit.

[0048] In at least one example with reference to the second scheme, the valve unit includes: a first sealing member having a first sealing surface, the first sealing surface being arranged to seal an inner surface of the fluid supply chamber near the first port when the valve unit is connected to the fluid supply chamber; and a second sealing member having a second sealing surface, the second sealing surface being arranged to seal an outer surface of the fluid supply chamber near the second port when the valve unit is connected to the fluid supply chamber.

[0049] In at least one example with reference to the second aspect, at least one of the first sealing member, the second sealing member, the valve and / or the valve unit is reversibly or elastically deformable so that the valve unit is under tension when connected to the fluid supply chamber.

[0050] In at least one example referring to the second scheme, in a non-connected rest state, the first sealing surface and the second sealing surface are arranged at a closest distance from each other that is smaller than a closest distance between the first sealing surface and the second sealing surface when the valve unit is connected to the fluid supply chamber.

[0051] In at least one example referring to the second aspect, the valve in the rest state is closed to prevent fluid from entering the first port and flowing therethrough to the second port.

[0052] In at least one example referring to the second aspect, the valve in the engaged state is open to allow fluid entering the first port to flow therethrough to the second port.

[0053] In at least one example referring to the second aspect, the valve reaches its engaged state when a prong connector inserted into the fluid passage engages the valve.

[0054] In at least one example with reference to the second aspect, the valve is a one-way valve or a check valve.

[0055] In at least one example referring to the second aspect, the valve is a duckbill valve arranged to open when a pointed connector inserted into the fluid passage engages the duckbill valve.

[0056] In at least one example referring to the second aspect, the valve unit has a tubular or cylindrical cross-sectional shape.

[0057] In at least one example referring to the second aspect, the first sealing member forms a flange and / or the second sealing member forms a flange.

[0058] In at least one example referring to the second aspect, the first sealing member has a first material or structural feature and the second sealing member has a second material or structural feature, wherein the first material or structural feature and the second material or structural feature are selected to allow reversible deformation.

[0059] In at least one example referring to the second aspect, the first material characteristic and the second material characteristic are related to at least one of elastic modulus and yield strength.

[0060] In at least one example referring to the second aspect, the first material characteristic and the second material characteristic are the same.

[0061] In at least one example referring to the second aspect, the first structural feature and / or the second structural feature is related to thickness.

[0062] In at least one example referring to the second aspect, the valve unit is made of an elastomeric material.

[0063] In at least one example referring to the second aspect, the first sealing surface is not integrally formed with the fluid supply chamber or is detachable from the fluid supply chamber.

[0064] In at least one example referring to the second aspect, the first sealing surface is formed integrally with the fluid supply chamber.

[0065] In at least one example with reference to the second scheme, the valve unit also includes a body extending between the first port and the second port, wherein the body is made of a material that can be reversibly or elastically deformed to allow a closest distance between the first sealing surface and the second sealing surface to increase from a closest distance in a non-connected state to a closest distance when the valve unit is connected to the fluid supply chamber, so that when the valve unit is connected to the fluid supply chamber, the valve unit is in a tensioned state.

[0066] In at least one example referring to the second aspect, the body includes an inner wall.

[0067] In at least one example with reference to the second scheme, the fluid channel is formed by the inner wall and extends along the longitudinal center axis of the valve unit, and the fluid channel includes: a first section of the inner wall close to the second port, which has a first cross-section, and a second section of the inner wall, which extends from the end of the first section along the longitudinal axis and has a second cross-section larger than the first cross-section, wherein the first section of the inner wall is arranged to engage the pointed connector when the pointed connector is inserted into the fluid channel to engage the valve.

[0068] In at least one example referring to the second aspect, the valve is disposed between the first port and the second section.

[0069] In at least one example referring to the second aspect, the second cross-section gradually increases along the longitudinal axis toward the first port.

[0070] In at least one example with reference to the second aspect, the first segment or the second segment extends symmetrically around the longitudinal center axis.

[0071] In at least one example with reference to the second aspect, the first section is made of a reversibly or elastically deformable material such that the first section is placed under tension when the prong connector is inserted into the fluid passage to engage the valve.

[0072] In at least one example referring to the second aspect, when the prong connector is inserted into the fluid passage to engage the valve, the first section forms a seal with a corresponding outer section of the prong connector.

[0073] In at least one example referring to the second aspect, when the prong connector is inserted into the fluid passage to engage the valve, the first section forms an interference fit with the entire periphery of the prong connector.

[0074] In at least one example with reference to the second scheme, the fluid channel is formed along the longitudinal center axis of the valve unit, and wherein the valve is arranged longitudinally in the fluid channel between the first port and the second port for controlling the flow rate of the fluid between the first port and the second port.

[0075] In at least one example with reference to the second aspect, the valve is arranged in the fluid passage along the longitudinal central axis between a first point of the longitudinal central axis and the second port, wherein the first point is related to a point of the longitudinal central axis that intersects a plane including the first sealing surface.

[0076] In at least one example with reference to the second scheme, the valve is arranged in the fluid channel along the longitudinal center axis between a first point of the longitudinal center axis and the second port, wherein the first point is defined by a point of the longitudinal axis intersecting a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal center axis, and the plane intersecting a point of the first sealing surface closest to the second port.

[0077] In a third embodiment, a valve unit can be provided for a fluid supply chamber of a respiratory support system, the respiratory support system providing humidified respiratory gas, the valve unit comprising: a first port and a second port, and a fluid channel formed therebetween; a valve arranged in the fluid channel for controlling the flow rate of fluid between the first port and the second port; wherein the fluid channel is formed by the inner wall of the valve unit and extends along the longitudinal center axis of the valve unit, and the fluid channel comprises: a first section of the inner wall close to the second port, having a first cross-section, a second section of the inner wall extending from an end of the first section along the longitudinal axis and having a second cross-section larger than the first cross-section, wherein the first section of the inner wall is arranged to engage the tip connector when the tip connector is inserted into the fluid channel to engage the valve.

[0078] In at least one example referring to the third aspect, the valve is disposed between the first port and the second section.

[0079] In at least one example referring to the third aspect, the second cross-section gradually increases along the longitudinal axis toward the first port.

[0080] In at least one example with reference to the third aspect, the first segment or the second segment extends symmetrically around the longitudinal center axis.

[0081] In at least one example with reference to the third aspect, the first section is made of a reversibly or elastically deformable material such that the first section is placed under tension when the prong connector is inserted into the fluid passage to engage the valve.

[0082] In at least one example referring to the third aspect, when the prong connector is inserted into the fluid passage to engage the valve, the first section forms a seal with a corresponding outer section of the prong connector.

[0083] In at least one example with reference to the third aspect, when the prong connector is inserted into the fluid passage to engage the valve, the first section forms an interference fit with the entire periphery of the prong connector.

[0084] In at least one example with reference to the third scheme, the valve unit includes: a first sealing member having a first sealing surface, the first sealing surface being arranged to seal an inner surface of the fluid supply chamber near the first port when the valve unit is connected to the fluid supply chamber; and a second sealing member having a second sealing surface, the second sealing surface being arranged to seal an outer surface of the fluid supply chamber near the second port when the valve unit is connected to the fluid supply chamber.

[0085] In at least one example with reference to the third aspect, at least one of the first sealing member, the second sealing member, the valve and / or the valve unit is reversibly or elastically deformable so that the valve unit is under tension when connected to the fluid supply chamber.

[0086] In at least one example with reference to the third scheme, in a non-connected rest state, the first sealing surface and the second sealing surface are arranged at a closest distance from each other that is smaller than a closest distance between the first sealing surface and the second sealing surface when the valve unit is connected to the fluid supply chamber.

[0087] In at least one example referring to the third aspect, the valve in the rest state is closed to prevent fluid from entering the first port and flowing therethrough to the second port.

[0088] In at least one example referring to the third aspect, the valve in the engaged state opens to allow fluid entering the first port to flow therethrough to the second port.

[0089] In at least one example referring to the third aspect, the valve reaches its engaged state when a prong connector inserted into the fluid passage engages the valve.

[0090] In at least one example with reference to the third aspect, the valve is a one-way valve or a check valve.

[0091] In at least one example referring to the third aspect, the valve is a duckbill valve arranged to open when a pointed connector inserted into the fluid passage engages the duckbill valve.

[0092] In at least one example referring to the third aspect, the valve unit has a tubular or cylindrical cross-sectional shape.

[0093] In at least one example referring to the third aspect, the first sealing member forms a flange and / or the second sealing member forms a flange.

[0094] In at least one example with reference to the third aspect, the first sealing member has a first material or structural feature and the second sealing member has a second material or structural feature, wherein the first material or structural feature and the second material or structural feature are selected to allow reversible deformation.

[0095] In at least one example referring to the third aspect, the first material characteristic and the second material characteristic are related to at least one of elastic modulus and yield strength.

[0096] In at least one example referring to the third aspect, the first material characteristic and the second material characteristic are the same.

[0097] In at least one example referring to the third aspect, the first structural feature and / or the second structural feature is related to thickness.

[0098] In at least one example referring to the third aspect, the valve unit is made of an elastomeric material.

[0099] In at least one example referring to the third aspect, the first sealing surface is not integrally formed with the fluid supply chamber or is detachable from the fluid supply chamber.

[0100] In at least one example referring to the third aspect, the first sealing surface is formed integrally with the fluid supply chamber.

[0101] In at least one example with reference to the third embodiment, the valve unit further includes a body extending between the first port and the second port, wherein the body is made of a material that can be reversibly or elastically deformed to allow a closest distance between the first sealing surface and the second sealing surface to increase from a closest distance in a non-connected state to a closest distance when the valve unit is connected to the fluid supply chamber, so that when the valve unit is connected to the fluid supply chamber, the valve unit is in a tensioned state.

[0102] In at least one example referring to the third aspect, the body includes an inner wall.

[0103] In at least one example with reference to the third scheme, the valve also includes: a first flexible baffle member having a first baffle sealing surface extending between its two corresponding lateral ends, and a second flexible baffle member having a second sealing surface extending between its two corresponding lateral ends, wherein the first baffle sealing surface and the second sealing surface are arranged to: engage with each other to form a seal, thereby closing the valve in a rest state, and disengage from each other to open the valve in an engaged state, thereby allowing fluid to flow through the valve, wherein each lateral terminal end of the first baffle sealing surface and the second baffle sealing surface is connected to the inner wall of the valve unit.

[0104] In at least one example referring to the third aspect, each lateral terminal end of the first baffle sealing surface is integrally formed with a corresponding lateral terminal end of the second baffle sealing surface.

[0105] In at least one example with reference to the third aspect, when the pointed connector has been inserted into the fluid passage to engage the valve, the first and second flapper sealing surfaces in engagement engage at least a portion of an outer surface of the pointed connector.

[0106] In at least one example referring to the third aspect, the inner wall forms a portion of the fluid passage.

[0107] In at least one example referring to the third aspect, the inner wall has a higher structural integrity than the first flexible baffle member and / or the second flexible baffle member.

[0108] In at least one example with reference to the third aspect, the inner wall has a greater hardness, thickness, and / or rigidity than the first flexible baffle member and / or the second flexible baffle member.

[0109] In at least one example referring to the third aspect, each lateral terminal end of the first baffle sealing surface and the second baffle sealing surface is formed integrally with the inner wall of the valve unit.

[0110] In at least one example with reference to the third scheme, the fluid channel is formed along the longitudinal center axis of the valve unit, and wherein the valve is arranged longitudinally in the fluid channel between the first port and the second port for controlling the flow rate of the fluid between the first port and the second port.

[0111] In at least one example with reference to the third aspect, the valve is arranged in the fluid passage along the longitudinal central axis between a first point of the longitudinal central axis and the second port, wherein the first point is related to a point of the longitudinal central axis that intersects a plane including the first sealing surface.

[0112] In at least one example with reference to the third scheme, the valve is arranged in the fluid channel along the longitudinal center axis between a first point of the longitudinal center axis and the second port, wherein the first point is defined by a point of the longitudinal axis intersecting a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal center axis, and the plane intersecting a point of the first sealing surface closest to the second port.

[0113] In a fourth embodiment, a component of a respiratory support system for providing humidified breathing gas may be provided, comprising: a valve unit as disclosed herein, and at least one of: a fluid supply chamber for connecting to the valve unit; a tip connector; a supply tube, arranged at a first end thereof to be connected to the tip connector; a humidification chamber for connecting to a second end of the supply tube; a humidifier comprising the humidification chamber for connecting to the second end of the supply tube; a gas source; a patient interface for connecting to the gas source or the humidifier via a gas supply tube; and a gas supply tube for connecting between the gas source and / or the humidifier and / or the humidification chamber and the patient interface.

[0114] In at least one example with reference to the fourth aspect, the humidification chamber includes an inlet for receiving fluid from the supply tube, and one or more floats for maintaining a liquid level in the humidification chamber when the supply tube holding the fluid is connected to the inlet.

[0115] In at least one example referring to the fourth aspect, the supply tube may be releasably or permanently attached to the inlet of the humidification chamber.

[0116] In at least one example referring to the fourth aspect, the prong connector can be releasably or permanently attached to the first end of the supply tube.

[0117] In a fifth embodiment, a fluid supply chamber assembly of a respiratory support system for providing humidified respiratory gas may be provided, comprising a valve unit as disclosed herein, and a fluid supply chamber arranged to hold a volume of fluid therein and having a fluid access port, wherein the valve unit is connected to the fluid access port. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0118] Some embodiments will now be described by way of example with reference to the following drawings, in which:

[0119] Figure 1 The figure shows a prior art breathing assistance system;

[0120] Figures 2 to 7 The figure shows a corresponding perspective view of a valve unit according to an embodiment;

[0121] Figures 8 to 11 The diagram shows Figures 2 to 7 A corresponding cross-sectional view of the valve unit;

[0122] Fig.12a and Figure 12b The diagram shows Figures 2 to 11 two corresponding different states of the valve unit;

[0123] Figures 13 to 15 The figure shows a corresponding perspective view of a fluid supply chamber according to an embodiment;

[0124] Fig.16 The diagram shows Figures 13 to 15 A cross-sectional view of a fluid supply chamber;

[0125] Fig.17 FIG. 1 shows a cross-sectional view of a fluid access port for receiving a fluid supply chamber of a valve unit according to an embodiment;

[0126] Fig.18 The diagram includes Figures 13 to 17 The fluid supply chamber and the fluid receiving port are connected to the Figure 2 to Figure 12b A rear perspective view of a fluid supply chamber assembly of a valve unit;

[0127] Fig.19 The diagram shows Fig.18 An enlarged portion of the attached valve unit is shown in a connected state;

[0128] Fig. 20 The diagram shows Figure 18 to Figure 19 A cross-sectional view of a fluid supply chamber assembly;

[0129] Fig.21 The diagram shows Fig. 20 An enlarged portion of the embodiment of the present invention shows that the valve unit is in an intermediate stage when connected to the fluid access port of the fluid supply chamber;

[0130] Fig. 22 The diagram shows Fig. 20 , showing an enlarged portion of the valve unit in its connected state in the fluid access port of the fluid supply chamber;

[0131] Fig.23 and Fig.24 Figures illustrate corresponding cross-sectional views of a fluid supply chamber assembly according to an embodiment;

[0132] Fig.25 Figure shows a perspective view of a fluid supply chamber assembly showing the valve unit in its connected and / or installed state in a fluid access port of the fluid supply chamber;

[0133] Fig.26 FIG. 1 shows a cross-sectional view of a fluid supply chamber assembly when receiving a pointed connector according to an embodiment;

[0134] Fig. 27 and Fig.28 The diagram shows Fig.26 , showing the valve unit when connected and / or mounted to the fluid supply chamber and the pointed connector is positioned for insertion into the valve unit;

[0135] Fig.29Figure shows a cross-sectional view of the fluid supply chamber assembly when the pointed connector has been fully inserted into the valve unit;

[0136] Fig.30 The diagram shows Fig.29 A magnified image of

[0137] Fig.31 and Fig.32 A corresponding perspective view of a valve unit according to an embodiment is shown when the pointed connector has reached its fully inserted state; and

[0138] Fig.33 The diagram illustrates components according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0139] Figure 1 The diagram shows an example respiratory support system 500, which includes an auxiliary fluid supply chamber 501 connected to a humidification chamber 505. The humidification chamber 505 contains a fluid, such as water, for humidifying the airflow flowing through the humidification chamber 505. The humidification chamber 505 is connected to a gas source 506, for example, a flow generator. The humidified air leaving the humidification chamber 505 is delivered to a patient interface 508 via a gas supply tube 507. Sometimes the amount of water that the humidification chamber 505 can hold is not enough for the entire treatment session, so the water may run out before the end of the treatment session. This problem can be solved by connecting an auxiliary fluid supply chamber 501 (such as a water bottle) to the humidification chamber 505. The humidification chamber 505 may include a float system with more than one float in response to the liquid level in the humidification chamber 505. The float system may include a valve located at the water inlet of the humidification chamber. The valve can be controlled based on the float position. The valve opens when the water level is below the threshold level, and closes when the water level is above the threshold level. The relative position of the float in the humidification chamber will dictate when fluid (e.g., water) from the auxiliary fluid supply chamber can flow into the humidification chamber. Such a float system can maintain a continuous amount of fluid in the humidification chamber as long as there is fluid in the auxiliary fluid supply chamber.

[0140] The auxiliary fluid supply chamber is usually not permanently attached to the humidification chamber because, for example, the user may need to separate the auxiliary chamber from the breathing apparatus to refill it. Figure 1 As shown, the humidification chamber 505 has a permanently attached tube 504 having a pointed connector 503 at the other end. Figure 1As shown, in order to obtain the fluid of the auxiliary fluid supply chamber, the pointed connector 503 needs to be inserted into the ready-made pointed port 502 connected to the auxiliary fluid supply chamber 501. In order to insert the pointed connector 503, the user (such as a patient) needs to pierce the membrane on the pointed port 502 with the tip of the pointed connector 503. However, since many users of respiratory devices are physically impaired, it may be difficult to correctly pierce the pointed port membrane, which in turn may cause damage to the pointed port and accidental leakage.

[0141] The present disclosure relates to a valve unit (hereinafter also referred to as a "bottle tip port") and an associated fluid supply chamber. The valve unit is configured to enable fluid to flow from the fluid supply chamber to a humidification chamber of a respiratory support system.

[0142] Figure 2 to Figure 12b The figures show various views of a valve unit 10 according to a first embodiment. The valve unit 10 is arranged to be connected to a respiratory support system (such as Figures 13 to 17 ) of the fluid supply chamber 20.

[0143] The valve unit 10 has an elongated body 18, and includes a first port 11 and a second port 12 formed in the body 18. The first port 11 and the second port 12 are configured to allow fluid to enter the elongated body 18.

[0144] A fluid channel 14 is formed between the first port 11 and the second port 12 , allowing a fluid to flow into and out of the first port 11 and / or the second port 12 , and between the second port 12 and the first port 11 .

[0145] The valve unit 10 further includes a valve 13 disposed in the fluid channel 14 for controlling the flow rate of the fluid between the first port 11 and the second port 12 .

[0146] As will be further explained below, fluid may flow through the valve when the valve is open, such as via a prong connector engaging the valve in an engaged state, and such flow is prevented when the valve is closed or in a disengaged state.

[0147] The valve unit 10 includes a first sealing member 15 near the first port 11, the first sealing member 15 having a first sealing surface 151. The valve unit also includes a second sealing member 16 near the second port, the second sealing member having a second sealing surface 161. The first sealing member 15 and the second sealing member 16 may be arranged such that the first sealing surface 151 and the second sealing surface 161 substantially face each other.

[0148] The first sealing member 15 and / or the second sealing member 16 may respectively form a flange adapted to seal the surface of the fluid supply chamber 20. The first sealing member 15 and / or the second sealing member 16 may respectively be a circumferential flange around the first port 11 and the second port 12.

[0149] Figures 18 to 30 The diagram shows the connection to Figures 13 to 17 The fluid supply chamber 20 Figure 2 to Figure 12b Various views of the valve unit 10 .

[0150] The fluid supply chamber may include a hard or rigid body, for example formed of a hard plastic material. Alternatively, the fluid supply chamber may include a flexible body, such as a flexible bag, as described with reference to Fig.33 The valve unit disclosed herein can be incorporated into any fluid supply chamber. The first sealing member 15 , more specifically the first sealing surface 151 of the first sealing member 15 , is arranged to seal the inner surface 21 of the fluid supply chamber 20 when the valve unit 10 is connected to the fluid supply chamber 20 .

[0151] The second sealing member 16 , more specifically the second sealing surface 161 of the second sealing member 16 , is arranged to seal the outer surface 22 of the fluid supply chamber 20 adjacent to the second port 12 when the valve unit 10 is connected to the fluid supply chamber 20 .

[0152] At least one of the first sealing member 15, the second sealing member 16, the valve 13 and / or the elongated body 18 of the valve unit 10 is reversibly or elastically deformable.

[0153] When the valve unit 10 is connected to the fluid supply chamber 20 , the first sealing member 15 seals an inner surface 21 of the fluid supply chamber 20 , and the second sealing member 16 seals an outer surface 22 of the fluid supply chamber 20 .

[0154] The reversible or elastic deformation of at least one of the first sealing member 15, the second sealing member 16, the valve 13 and / or the slender body 18 of the valve unit 10 allows the valve unit 10 to remain in a taut state along its extended length or at least a majority of its extended length when connected to the fluid supply chamber 20.

[0155] This tensioned state along the extended length or at least a large part of the extended length of the valve unit 10 results in a watertight or substantially watertight seal between at least the first sealing member 15 and the inner surface 21 of the fluid supply chamber 20 .

[0156] In addition, when the valve unit 10 is connected to the fluid supply chamber 20, the seal between the first sealing member 15 and the inner surface 21 of the fluid supply chamber 20 means that the valve unit 10 is tightly held in the fluid supply chamber 20. In order to remove or disconnect the valve unit 10 from the fluid supply chamber 20, a considerable pulling force along the length of the valve unit is required. Therefore, once the valve unit is connected to the fluid supply chamber, it is not easy to disconnect, and this reduces the risk of accidentally removing the valve unit 10 from the fluid supply chamber 20.

[0157] Fig.12a and Figure 12b The diagram shows Figures 2 to 11 Two corresponding different states of the valve unit.

[0158] like Fig.12a As shown, the valve unit 10 is in a non-connected rest state. In this non-connected rest state, the first sealing surface 151 and the second sealing surface 161 are arranged at a distance L1 from each other.

[0159] As described above, when the valve unit 10 is connected to the fluid supply chamber 20, the valve unit 10 is maintained in a tensioned state. Figure 12b As shown, the valve unit 10 is in a connected state. In this connected state, the first sealing surface 151 and the second sealing surface 161 are arranged at a distance L2 from each other.

[0160] As shown, the distance L1 when the valve unit 10 is in the non-connected rest state is smaller than the distance L2 between the first sealing surface 151 and the second sealing surface 161 when the valve unit 10 is connected to the fluid supply chamber 20 in the connected state.

[0161] The increased distance between the first sealing surface 151 and the second sealing surface 161 in the connected state is achieved by reversible or elastic deformation of at least one of the first sealing member 15 , the second sealing member 16 , the valve 13 and / or the elongated body 18 of the valve unit 10 .

[0162] The distance L2 in the connected state is greater than the distance L1 when the valve unit 10 is in the unconnected rest state. The difference between L1 and L2 may be between about 0.1 mm and about 10 mm. More preferably, the difference between L1 and L2 is between about 0.1 mm and 1.0 mm, and more preferably about 0.5 mm.

[0163] In the illustrated embodiment, a valve 13 is arranged in the fluid passage 14 for controlling the flow of fluid between the first port 11 and the second port 12 .

[0164] According to some embodiments, the valve 13 may be a one-way valve or a check valve. In such embodiments, when the valve 13 is in a disengaged state, the valve 13 is arranged to allow fluid under pressure to flow through the valve in only one direction. In addition, when the valve 13 is in an engaged state, the valve 13 may be arranged to allow fluid to flow through the valve in both directions (as will be further explained below).

[0165] For example, in some embodiments, in the disengaged state, the fluid under pressure at the second port 12 can be used to force open the valve to allow the pressurized fluid to flow between the second port 12 and the first port 11, for example, to allow the fluid supply chamber to be refilled with fluid. The pressure required to force open the valve may need to meet a threshold pressure. Alternatively, or in addition, a separate port can be provided for the fluid supply chamber to allow the fluid supply chamber to be refilled.

[0166] Furthermore, in the disengaged state, the fluid is prevented from flowing from the first port 11 to the second port 12. When the valve unit is connected to the fluid supply chamber and is in the disengaged state, such a configuration allows preventing the fluid from being accidentally released from the fluid supply chamber because the fluid is prevented from passing through the valve 13 in a direction from the first port 11 toward the second port 12.

[0167] As described above, the valve unit 10 is configured to be connected to the fluid supply chamber 20, whereby when the valve unit 10 is connected to the fluid supply chamber 20, the first sealing member 15 is arranged to seal the inner surface 21 of the fluid supply chamber 20 near the first port 11, and the second sealing member 16 is arranged to seal the outer surface 22 of the fluid supply chamber 20 near the second port 12.

[0168] Thus, when the valve unit 10 is connected to the fluid supply chamber 20, the valve 13 is arranged in the fluid passage 14 between the first port 11 and the second port 12 and positioned so that fluid is prevented from flowing from the first port 11 to the second port 12 when the valve 13 is in its disengaged state.

[0169] In further such embodiments, the valve 13 may be a non-return or one-way valve in the form of a duckbill valve arranged such that, when in a closed position associated with the disengaged state, fluid flow between the first port 11 and the second port 12 is prevented.

[0170] The valve 13 is arranged to open when the prong connector is inserted into the fluid passage 14 and engages the valve 13. Thus, in the engaged state, the valve 13 is open and allows fluid to flow through the valve 13 via the hollow prong connector.

[0171] Since the valve unit 10 is usually arranged at the lowermost end of the fluid supply chamber 20, when in its engaged state, the fluid from the fluid supply chamber 20 is allowed to flow through the valve between the first port 11 and the second port 12 under the influence of gravity. Therefore, in some embodiments, when the valve unit is in its engaged state, it can be said that gravity affects the direction of travel of the fluid through the valve unit.

[0172] As reference Figure 26 to Figure 28 As shown, the valve unit 10 is in a disengaged state when the valve 13 is not engaged with the prong connector 30. In the disengaged state, the valve 13 is closed and prevents any fluid from entering the first port 11 and flowing through it through the fluid passage 14 to the second port 12.

[0173] As reference Figure 29 to Figure 32 As shown, when the pointed connector 30 is inserted into the second port 12 through the fluid passage 14, the valve 13 reaches its engaged state. The body 34 of the pointed connector 30 thereby engages the valve 13. When the valve 13 engages the body 34 of the pointed connector 30 and the valve unit 10 is in the engaged state, the valve 13 opens and allows fluid entering the first port 11 to flow therethrough toward the second port 12. Fluid from the fluid supply chamber 20 can flow into the fluid passage 32 of the pointed connector and toward a catheter that can be attached to the distal end 36 of the pointed connector 30.

[0174] As described above, the valve unit 10 is arranged to be connected to the fluid supply chamber 20 of the respiratory support system, such as with reference to Figures 13 to 17 The valve unit is configured to be inserted into and held in the fluid access port 25 of the fluid supply chamber. The fluid access port 25 may form an outlet / inlet of the fluid supply chamber 20.

[0175] The fluid access port 25 may have an inner shape that conforms to the outer shape of the valve unit 10 so as to form a seal, an interference fit, or a friction fit with the valve unit 10 when connected to the fluid supply chamber.

[0176] Fig.21 The diagram shows Fig. 20, showing the valve unit in an intermediate stage when connected to the fluid access port of the fluid supply chamber. In this intermediate stage, the valve unit has been inserted into the fluid access port 25, and the first sealing surface 151 has just engaged the inner surface 21 of the fluid supply chamber 20. The other end of the valve unit including the second port 12 and the second sealing surface 161 are pressed into the fluid access cavity 20 to a certain extent. For example, the second port 12 can be pressed into the fluid access port 25 by pushing the valve unit into the fluid access port 25 with the help of a finger or other suitable tool, thereby allowing the first sealing member 15 to leave the fluid access port 25 in the fluid supply chamber to allow the first sealing surface 151 to engage the inner surface 21 of the fluid supply chamber. In the recessed state, the second sealing surface 161 engages the outer surface 22 of the fluid supply chamber, while the second sealing member deviates from its rest state configuration. Once the first sealing surface 151 has engaged the inner surface 21 of the fluid supply chamber, the valve unit can be released, whereby it returns to Fig. 22 When the valve unit 10 is released, that is, when the load or force applied to the valve unit during insertion into the fluid access port 25 is removed, the closest distance between the first sealing member 151 and the second sealing member 161 increases from L1 to L2, as shown in FIG. Fig.12a and Figure 12b This places the valve unit under tension and the tension acts to pull the first sealing surface 151 towards the second sealing surface 161, thereby forcing the first sealing surface 151 against the inner surface 21 and the second sealing surface 161 against the outer surface 22, thereby forming a seal.

[0177] In some embodiments, first sealing surface 151 is not integrally formed with fluid supply chamber 20 or is detachable. In an alternative embodiment, first sealing surface 151 is integrally formed with fluid supply chamber 20.

[0178] The shape of the valve unit 10 is configured to substantially correspond to the shape of the fluid access port 25 of the fluid supply chamber 20. In the illustrated embodiment, the elongated body 18 of the valve unit 10 has a circular, tubular, or cylindrical cross-sectional shape. The tubular or cylindrical cross-sectional shape of the elongated body 18 corresponds to the tubular or cylindrical cross-sectional shape of the fluid access port 25 of the fluid supply chamber 20. In alternative embodiments, the elongated body 18 of the valve unit 10 may have a different cross-sectional shape and may take the form of a square or other regular polygon, or any other shape suitable for fitting in a fluid access port.

[0179] The shape of the valve unit 10 substantially corresponds to the shape of the fluid access port 25 of the fluid supply chamber 20, and a seal can be provided between the exterior of the elongated body 18 of the valve unit 10 and the inner wall of the fluid access port 25 of the fluid supply chamber 20. The seal can be watertight, so that the contact between the exterior of the elongated body 18 of the valve unit 10 and the inner wall of the fluid access port 25 of the fluid supply chamber 20 prevents the fluid from the fluid supply chamber from leaving the fluid supply chamber.

[0180] The portion of the elongated body 18 between the first sealing surface 151 and the second sealing surface 161 may have a variable cross-sectional shape. Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown in the side view of the valve unit 10 , the cross-sectional shape of a portion of the elongated body 18 is larger toward the second sealing member 16 and smaller toward the first sealing member 15 .

[0181] According to some embodiments, the variable cross-sectional shape tapers gradually from the second port 12 toward the first port 11. Figure 5 It is observed that the cross-sectional shape of the body 18 of the valve unit 10 is conical, with reference to two imaginary lines respectively parallel to the longitudinal axis LA of the valve unit.

[0182] The different cross-sectional shapes shown in this embodiment may allow the valve unit 10 to be easily inserted into the fluid supply chamber 20 when connected. In alternative embodiments, the cross-sectional shape of the portion of the elongated body 18 between the first sealing surface 151 and the second sealing surface 161 may be uniform.

[0183] The body 18 of the valve unit 10 is formed of a reversibly or elastically deformable material, such as an elastomeric material. The body 18 of the valve unit 10 is formed of an elastomeric material, allowing reversible deformation of the first sealing member 15 relative to the second sealing member 16. This reversible deformation of the first sealing member 15 relative to the second sealing member 16 allows the valve unit 10 to remain in a taut state when connected to the fluid supply chamber 20 as described above.

[0184] In some embodiments, the body 18 of the valve unit 10 is formed of two or more different elastomeric materials, for example, the first sealing member 15 can be formed of a first elastomeric material, and the second sealing member 16 can be formed of a second material. The second material can be elastomeric in nature, however, it can be a more rigid material instead.

[0185] In some embodiments, the valve unit 10, the body 18, the first sealing member 15, the second sealing member 16 and / or the valve 13 can be made of silicone, thermosetting rubber (HCR), liquid silicone rubber (LSR) or thermoplastic elastomer material (TPE, such as Thermolast or Santoprene), or any other suitable material.

[0186] When the body 18 of the valve unit 10 is formed of more than one material, the first sealing member 15 can have a first material or structural feature, and the second sealing member 16 can have a second material or structural feature. In such an embodiment, the first material or structural feature and the second material or structural feature are selected to allow reversible deformation of the first sealing member 15 relative to the second sealing member 16. In some embodiments, the first material feature and the second material feature are the same.

[0187] In these embodiments, the first material characteristic and the second material characteristic may be related to the elastic modulus of the sealing component and / or the yield stress of the sealing component.

[0188] In some embodiments, the first structural feature and the second structural feature may be related to the thickness of the respective sealing members 15 , 16 .

[0189] Now refer to Fig.10 and Fig.11 The valve 13 of the valve unit 10 further includes a first flexible baffle member 131 and a second flexible baffle member 132. The first flexible baffle member 131 has a first baffle sealing surface 131a extending between its two corresponding side ends 1311, 1312. The second flexible baffle member 132 has a second baffle sealing surface 132a extending between its two corresponding side ends 1321, 1322.

[0190] The first flapper sealing surface 131a and the second flapper sealing surface 132a are arranged to engage with each other to form a seal, thereby closing the valve 13 in the rest state. When closed, the valve 13 prevents fluid from flowing from the first port 11 to the second port 12. The seal of the first flapper sealing surface 131a and the second flapper sealing surface 132a prevents any fluid from entering between the sealing surfaces.

[0191] When the tip connector is inserted into the second port 12 and is about to engage with the valve 13 through the fluid passage 14, the first flapper sealing surface 131a and the second flapper sealing surface 132a are disengaged from each other to open the valve 13 in the engaged state. When the valve 13 is engaged with the body of the tip connector and the valve unit 10 is in the engaged state, the valve 13 is opened and allows the fluid entering the first port 11 to flow therethrough toward the second port 12. The fluid from the fluid supply chamber 20 can flow into the fluid passage 32 of the tip connector and flow to the catheter that can be attached to the distal end 36 of the tip connector 30.

[0192] The body 18 of the valve unit 10 has a fluid passage 14 extending therethrough, the fluid passage 14 extending between the first port 11 and the second port 12. The fluid passage 14 is defined by an inner wall 17 of the body of the valve unit 10. The inner wall 17 may form a portion of the fluid passage 14. Each lateral terminal end of the first baffle sealing surface 131a and the second baffle sealing surface 132a is integrally formed with or otherwise coupled to the inner wall 17 of the valve unit 10. The first baffle sealing surface 131a and the second baffle sealing surface 132a may be integrally formed with the inner wall 17 of the valve unit 10 such that the lateral terminal ends form a continuous sealing portion with the inner wall 17.

[0193] In addition, each lateral terminal end 1311, 1312 of the first baffle sealing surface 131a may be formed integrally with the corresponding lateral terminal end 1321, 1322 of the second baffle sealing surface 132a. Thus, the corresponding lateral terminal ends of the first and second baffle sealing surfaces may be formed integrally with each other and with the inner wall 17 of the valve unit body 18. For example, at the connection with the inner wall 17 of the body 18 of the valve unit 10, the lateral terminal end 1311 of the first baffle sealing surface 131a may be formed integrally with the lateral terminal end 1321 where the two lateral terminal ends of the second baffle sealing surface 132a meet.

[0194] When the pointed connector is inserted into the second port 12 and passes through the fluid passage 14 and engages with the valve 13, the first baffle sealing surface 131a and the second baffle sealing surface 132a engage at least a portion of the outer surface of the pointed connector. The first baffle sealing surface 131a and the second baffle sealing surface 132a preferably substantially engage a portion of the outer surface of the pointed connector. In this manner, a seal can be formed between the first and second baffle sealing surfaces and a portion of the outer surface of the pointed connector. This seal is preferably a watertight seal that prevents fluid from the fluid supply chamber from leaving the fluid supply chamber between the exterior of the pointed connector and the first and second baffle sealing surfaces when the valve 13 is in an engaged state.

[0195] The valve 13 of the valve unit 10 may be formed of an elastomeric material. The elastomeric material may be the same elastomeric material as the body 18 of the valve member 10. Therefore, the first flexible baffle member 131, the second flexible baffle member 132 and the inner wall 17 of the valve unit 10 may be formed of the same material. The first flexible baffle member 131 and the second flexible baffle member 132 may be integrally formed with each other and integrally formed with the inner wall 17 of the valve unit 10 at the lateral end ends.

[0196] The elastomeric material forming the valve 13 of the valve unit 10 allows reversible deformation of the first flexible flap member 131 and the second flexible flap member 132. Such reversible deformation of the first flexible flap member 131 and the second flexible flap member 132 allows the flexible flap member of the valve 13 to engage and disengage with the pointed connector, and allows the valve 13 to switch between the rest state and the engaged state as described above.

[0197] In some embodiments, the inner wall 17 of the valve unit 10 can have a higher structural integrity than the first flexible baffle member 131 and / or the second flexible baffle member 132. The higher structural integrity of the inner wall 17 can refer to a greater hardness and / or thickness and / or stiffness than the first flexible baffle member and / or the second flexible baffle member.

[0198] Since each lateral terminal end of the first baffle sealing surface 131a and the second baffle sealing surface 132a is integrally formed with the inner wall 17 of the valve unit 10, the higher structural integrity of the inner wall 17 than the flexible baffle member provides high tear resistance by making it more difficult to propagate cracks at the terminal end of the baffle sealing surface where the lateral end meets the inner wall 17, compared to if the lateral end is not attached to the inner wall 17.

[0199] This higher tear resistance allows the valve 13, and specifically the flexible flapper members 131, 132, to continuously transition between a rest state and an engaged state when the prong connector is inserted into the fluid passageway via the second port 12. This higher tear resistance of the inner wall 17 prevents the flapper sealing surfaces 131a, 132a of the valve 13 from tearing or fatigue at the terminal ends of the flapper sealing surfaces (where the lateral ends meet the inner wall 17).

[0200] Reference Fig. 9 The fluid channel 14 of the valve unit is formed by an inner wall 17 of a body 18 of the valve unit 10 and extends along a longitudinal center axis LA of the valve unit 10 .

[0201] The fluid passage 14 includes a first section 141 of an inner wall 17 having a first cross-section CS1 proximate the second port 12. The first section 141 of the fluid passage 14 may form the second port 12. The portion of the inner wall 17 defined by the first section 141 is arranged to engage the exterior of the body of the pointed connector when the pointed connector is inserted into the fluid passage 14 to engage the valve 13.

[0202] The fluid channel 14 also includes a second section 142 of the inner wall 17 extending from the end of the first section 141 along the longitudinal axis LA and having a second cross-section. The second cross-section can gradually increase along the longitudinal axis LA toward the first port 11. After gradually increasing along the longitudinal axis toward the first port 11, the second cross-section 142 can reach a uniform cross-section, as shown by CS2. The second section 142 can be represented by the maximum shelf cross-section of CS2. In an alternative embodiment, instead of gradually increasing the cross-section after the first section 141 toward the first port 11, there can be a sharp increase in the cross-section of the second section 142.

[0203] As shown, the second cross-section is larger than the first cross-section CS1. The first section 141 and the second section 142 may extend symmetrically about the longitudinal center axis.

[0204] Reference Fig.28 The pointed connector 30 has an outer surface and a width W or diameter defined between a first outer surface edge 38a and a second outer surface edge 38b. The width W or diameter substantially corresponds to the first cross-section CS1 of the first portion 141 of the fluid channel 14.

[0205] Since the width W of the pointed connector is substantially equal to the first cross-section CS1 of the first portion 141 of the fluid channel 14, when the pointed connector 30 is inserted into the fluid channel 14 via the second port 12 to engage the valve 13, the first section 141 of the fluid channel 14 is suitable for forming a seal with the corresponding outer section of the pointed connector 30.

[0206] As previously discussed with respect to the body 18 of the valve unit 10, the first section 141 of the fluid passage 14 may also be formed of a reversibly or elastically deformable material. Thus, the reversible or elastic deformability of the first section 141 of the fluid passage 14 allows the first section 141 to be in a peripherally tightened state when the pointed connector is inserted into the fluid passage 14 via the second port 12 to engage the valve 13.

[0207] The reversible or elastic deformability of the first section 141 and the substantial equality between the width W of the pointed connector and the first cross-section CS1 of the first portion 141 of the fluid channel 14 allow an interference fit between the periphery of the first portion 141 and the periphery of the outer surface of the pointed connector 30 when the pointed connector 30 is inserted into the fluid channel 14 to engage the valve 13.

[0208] The portion of the inner wall 17 defined by the first section 141 is arranged to engage with the exterior of the body of the pointed connector when the pointed connector is inserted into the fluid passage 14 to engage the valve 13. This means that when the pointed connector is inserted into the fluid passage 14 via the second port 12, a seal is formed between the outer surface of the pointed connector and the first section 141 of the valve unit 10. Thus, a seal is already formed before the pointed connector engages the valve 13. Thus, when the pointed connector engages the valve 13, a sealing ring is already present. Thus, during insertion of the pointed connector, any fluid that may leak through the valve as it opens when engaged with the pointed connector is prevented from leaking out of the second port 12 because the fluid is contained within the second section 142 of the fluid passage 14.

[0209] The diameter of the fluid passage 14 increases along the longitudinal axis LA from the first section 141, which is configured to seal against the outer surface of the prong connector. Therefore, the resistance to the prong connector being inserted or pushed into the valve unit 10 via the second port 12 is substantially constant as compared to the insertion into the prong port. Since the resistance to the prong connector being inserted or pushed into the valve unit 10 is substantially constant, a user inserting or pushing the prong connector into the valve unit 10 is less likely to stop pushing before the prong reaches its fully inserted position to engage the valve 13.

[0210] Refer again Fig. 9 , the valve 13 is arranged along the longitudinal axis LA between the first port 11 and the second section 142. Therefore, the valve 13 is thereby arranged to be positioned downstream of the first port 11 along the fluid passage 14. Therefore, the positioning of the valve 13 within the fluid passage 14 allows the fluid contained at or toward the fluid outlet of the fluid supply chamber to enter the first port 11 and thereby flow toward the fluid passage of the tip connector.

[0211] See also Fig. 22 The fluid channel 14 of the valve unit 10 is formed along the longitudinal center axis A of the valve unit 10 . The valve 13 is longitudinally arranged in the fluid channel 14 between the first port 11 and the second port 12 for controlling the flow rate of the fluid between the first port 11 and the second port 12 .

[0212] The valve 13 is arranged in the fluid passage 14 along the longitudinal central axis A between a first point of the longitudinal central axis A and the second port 12 , wherein the first point is related to a point of the longitudinal central axis that intersects a plane P1 including the first sealing surface 151 .

[0213] Alternatively, the valve 13 is arranged in the fluid channel 14 along the longitudinal center axis between a first point of the longitudinal center axis and the second port 12, wherein the first point is defined by the point where the longitudinal axis intersects a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal center axis, and the plane intersects the point where the first sealing surface 151 is closest to the second port.

[0214] The present disclosure also relates to a component 100 for a respiratory support system that provides humidified respiratory gas. The component includes a valve unit 10 according to any of the above embodiments, and at least one of the following: a fluid supply chamber 20 for connecting to the valve unit 10; a tip connector 30; a supply tube 40 having a first end arranged to be connected to the tip connector 30; a humidification chamber 50 for connecting to a second end of the supply tube 40; a humidifier 60 including a humidification chamber 50 for connecting to a second end of the supply tube 40; a gas source 70; a patient interface 80 connected to the gas source 70 or the humidifier 60 via a gas supply tube 90; and a gas supply tube 90 for connecting between the gas source 70 and / or the humidifier 60 and / or the humidification chamber 50 and the patient interface 80.

[0215] The humidification chamber 50 may include an inlet 51 for receiving the fluid from the supply tube 40. The humidification chamber 50 may also include one or more floats 52 for maintaining the liquid level in the humidification chamber when the supply tube 40 holding the fluid is connected to the inlet 51.

[0216] The supply tube 40 may be releasably or permanently attached to the inlet 51 of the humidification chamber 50. The prong connector 30 is releasably or permanently attached to a first end of the supply tube 40.

[0217] project

[0218] Examples of the present disclosure will now be described in the following numbered items:

[0219] Item 1. A valve unit for a fluid supply chamber of a respiratory support system, the respiratory support system providing humidified respiratory gas, the valve unit comprising:

[0220] a first port and a second port, and a fluid passage formed therebetween;

[0221] a valve disposed in the fluid passage for controlling a flow rate of the fluid between the first port and the second port;

[0222] a first sealing member having a first sealing surface arranged to seal an inner surface of the fluid supply chamber adjacent to the first port when the valve unit is connected to the fluid supply chamber;

[0223] A second sealing member has a second sealing surface arranged to seal an outer surface of the fluid supply chamber adjacent to the second port when the valve unit is connected to the fluid supply chamber.

[0224] Item 2. A valve unit according to Item 1, wherein at least one of the first sealing member, the second sealing member, the valve and / or the valve unit is reversibly or elastically deformable so that the valve unit is under tension when connected to the fluid supply chamber.

[0225] Item 3. A valve unit according to Item 1 or 2, wherein, in a non-connected rest state, the first sealing surface and the second sealing surface are arranged at a closest distance to each other that is smaller than a closest distance between the first sealing surface and the second sealing surface when the valve unit is connected to the fluid supply chamber.

[0226] Item 4. The valve unit according to any one of Items 1 to 3, wherein the valve in the rest state is closed to prevent fluid from entering the first port to flow therethrough to the second port.

[0227] Item 5. The valve unit (10) according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the valve in the engaged state opens to allow fluid entering the first port to flow therethrough to the second port.

[0228] Item 6. The valve unit according to Item 4, wherein the valve reaches its engaged state when a pointed connector inserted into the fluid passage engages the valve.

[0229] Item 7. The valve unit according to any of the preceding items, wherein the valve is a one-way valve or a check valve.

[0230] Item 8. The valve unit according to any of the preceding items, wherein the valve is a duckbill valve arranged to open when a pointed connector inserted into the fluid passage engages the duckbill valve.

[0231] Item 9. The valve unit according to any of the preceding items, having a tubular or cylindrical cross-sectional shape.

[0232] Item 10. The valve unit according to any of the preceding items, wherein the first sealing member forms a flange and / or the second sealing member forms a flange.

[0233] Item 11. A valve unit according to any of the preceding items, wherein the first sealing member has a first material or structural feature and the second sealing member has a second material or structural feature, wherein the first material or structural feature and the second material or structural feature are selected to allow reversible deformation.

[0234] Item 12. The valve unit of Item 11, wherein the first material characteristic and the second material characteristic are related to at least one of elastic modulus and yield strength.

[0235] Item 13. The valve unit according to Item 11 or 12, wherein the first material characteristic and the second material characteristic are the same.

[0236] Item 14. The valve unit according to any one of Items 11 to 13, wherein the first structural feature and / or the second structural feature is related to thickness.

[0237] Item 15. The valve unit according to any of the preceding items, being made of an elastomeric material.

[0238] Item 16. The valve unit according to any of the preceding items, wherein the first sealing surface is not integrally formed with the fluid supply chamber or is removable from the fluid supply chamber.

[0239] Item 17. The valve unit according to any of the preceding items, wherein the first sealing surface is formed integrally with the fluid supply chamber.

[0240] Item 18. The valve unit according to Item 3 or any item subordinate thereto, further includes a body extending between the first port and the second port, wherein the body is made of a material that can be reversibly or elastically deformed to allow the closest distance between the first sealing surface and the second sealing surface to increase from the closest distance in a non-connected state to the closest distance when the valve unit is connected to the fluid supply chamber, so that when the valve unit is connected to the fluid supply chamber, the valve unit is in a tensioned state.

[0241] Item 19. The valve unit according to any of the preceding items, wherein the valve further comprises:

[0242] a first flexible flap member having a first flap sealing surface extending between two respective lateral ends thereof,

[0243] a second flexible flap member having a second sealing surface extending between two respective lateral ends thereof, wherein the first flap sealing surface and the second sealing surface are arranged as follows:

[0244] engage with each other to form a seal to close the valve in a rest state, and

[0245] disengage from each other to open the valve in an engaged state, thereby allowing fluid to flow through the valve,

[0246] Each lateral terminal end of the first baffle sealing surface and the second baffle sealing surface is connected to the inner wall of the valve unit.

[0247] Item 20. The valve unit of Item 19, wherein each lateral terminal end of the first baffle sealing surface is integrally formed with a corresponding lateral terminal end of the second baffle sealing surface.

[0248] Item 21. A valve unit according to Item 19 or 20, wherein when the pointed connector has been inserted into the fluid channel to engage the valve, the first baffle sealing surface and the second baffle sealing surface in an engaged state engage at least a portion of the outer surface of the pointed connector.

[0249] Item 22. The valve unit according to any one of Items 19 to 21, wherein the inner wall forms a part of the fluid channel.

[0250] Item 23. The valve unit of any one of Items 19 to 22, wherein the inner wall has a higher structural integrity than the first flexible baffle member and / or the second flexible baffle member.

[0251] Item 24. The valve unit of any one of Items 19 to 23, wherein the inner wall has a greater hardness, thickness, and / or rigidity than the first flexible baffle member and / or the second flexible baffle member.

[0252] Item 25. The valve unit of any one of Items 19 to 24, wherein each lateral terminal end of the first baffle sealing surface and the second baffle sealing surface is integrally formed with the inner wall of the valve unit.

[0253] Item 26. The valve unit according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the fluid channel is formed by an inner wall of the valve unit and extends along a longitudinal center axis of the valve unit, and the fluid channel comprises:

[0254] a first section of the inner wall close to the second port having a first cross section,

[0255] a second section of the inner wall extending from an end of the first section along the longitudinal axis and having a second cross-section that is larger than the first cross-section,

[0256] Wherein the first section of the inner wall is arranged to engage the prong connector when the prong connector is inserted into the fluid passage to engage the valve.

[0257] Item 27. The valve unit according to Item 26, wherein the valve is arranged between the first port and the second section.

[0258] Item 28. The valve unit according to Item 26 or 27, wherein the second cross section gradually increases along the longitudinal axis toward the first port.

[0259] Item 29. The valve unit according to any one of Items 26 to 28, wherein the first section or the second section extends symmetrically around the longitudinal center axis.

[0260] Item 30. A valve unit according to any one of Items 26 to 29, wherein the first section is made of a material that can be reversibly or elastically deformed so that the first section is under tension when the pointed connector is inserted into the fluid channel to engage the valve.

[0261] Item 31. The valve unit of any one of Items 26 to 30, wherein the first section forms a seal with a corresponding outer section of the pointed connector when the pointed connector is inserted into the fluid passage to engage the valve.

[0262] Item 32. The valve unit of any one of Items 26 to 31, wherein the first section forms an interference fit with the entire periphery of the pointed connector when the pointed connector is inserted into the fluid passage to engage the valve.

[0263] Item 33. A valve unit according to any of the preceding items, wherein the fluid channel is formed along the longitudinal center axis of the valve unit, and wherein the valve is longitudinally arranged in the fluid channel between the first port and the second port for controlling the flow rate of the fluid between the first port and the second port.

[0264] Item 34. A valve unit according to Item 32, wherein the valve is arranged in the fluid channel along the longitudinal center axis between a first point of the longitudinal center axis and the second port, wherein the first point is related to the point where the longitudinal center axis intersects with a plane including the first sealing surface.

[0265] Item 35. A valve unit according to Item 33 or 34, wherein the valve is arranged in the fluid channel along the longitudinal center axis between a first point of the longitudinal center axis and the second port, wherein the first point is defined by a point of the longitudinal axis intersecting with a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal center axis, and the plane intersects with a point of the first sealing surface closest to the second port.

[0266] Item 36. A valve unit for a fluid supply chamber of a respiratory support system, the respiratory support system providing humidified respiratory gas, the valve unit comprising:

[0267] a first port and a second port, and a fluid passage formed therebetween;

[0268] a valve arranged in the fluid channel for controlling the flow of the fluid between the first port and the second port; the valve comprises

[0269] a first flexible flap member having a first flap sealing surface extending between two respective lateral ends thereof,

[0270] a second flexible flap member having a second sealing surface extending between two respective lateral ends thereof, wherein the first flap sealing surface and the second sealing surface are arranged as follows:

[0271] engage with each other to form a seal, thereby closing the valve in the rest state, and

[0272] disengage from each other to open the valve in an engaged state, thereby allowing fluid to flow through the valve,

[0273] Each lateral terminal end of the first baffle sealing surface and the second baffle sealing surface is connected to the inner wall of the valve unit.

[0274] Item 37. The valve unit of Item 36, wherein each lateral terminal end of the first baffle sealing surface is integrally formed with a corresponding lateral terminal end of the second baffle sealing surface.

[0275] Item 38. A valve unit according to Item 36 or 37, wherein when a pointed connector has been inserted into the fluid passage to engage the valve, the first baffle sealing surface and the second baffle sealing surface in an engaged state engage at least a portion of an outer surface of the pointed connector.

[0276] Item 39. The valve unit according to any one of Items 36 to 38, wherein the inner wall forms a part of the fluid channel.

[0277] Item 40. The valve unit of any one of Items 36 to 39, wherein the inner wall has a higher structural integrity than the first flexible baffle member and / or the second flexible baffle member.

[0278] Item 41. A valve unit according to any one of Items 36 to 40, wherein the inner wall has a greater hardness, thickness and / or rigidity than the first flexible baffle member and / or the second flexible baffle member.

[0279] Item 42. The valve unit of any one of Items 36 to 41, wherein each lateral terminal end of the first baffle sealing surface and the second baffle sealing surface is integrally formed with the inner wall of the valve unit.

[0280] Item 43. The valve unit according to any one of Items 36 to 42, further comprising

[0281] a first sealing member having a first sealing surface arranged to seal an inner surface of the fluid supply chamber adjacent to the first port when the valve unit is connected to the fluid supply chamber;

[0282] A second sealing member has a second sealing surface arranged to seal an outer surface of the fluid supply chamber adjacent to the second port when the valve unit is connected to the fluid supply chamber.

[0283] Item 44. A valve unit according to Item 43, wherein at least one of the first sealing member, the second sealing member, the valve and / or the valve unit is reversibly or elastically deformable so that the valve unit is under tension when connected to the fluid supply chamber.

[0284] Item 45. A valve unit according to Item 43 or 44, wherein, in a non-connected rest state, the first sealing surface and the second sealing surface are arranged at a closest distance to each other that is smaller than a closest distance between the first sealing surface and the second sealing surface when the valve unit is connected to the fluid supply chamber.

[0285] Item 46. The valve unit of item 36 or any item dependent therefrom, wherein the valve in the rest state is closed to prevent fluid from entering the first port to flow therethrough to the second port.

[0286] Item 47. The valve unit of item 36 or any item dependent therefrom, wherein the valve in the engaged state opens to allow fluid entering the first port to flow therethrough to the second port.

[0287] Item 48. The valve unit according to Item 47, wherein the valve reaches its engaged state when a pointed connector inserted into the fluid passage engages the valve.

[0288] Item 49. The valve unit according to any one of Items 36 to 48, wherein the valve is a one-way valve or a check valve.

[0289] Item 50. The valve unit according to any one of Items 36 to 49, wherein the valve is a duckbill valve arranged to open when a pointed connector inserted into the fluid passage engages the duckbill valve.

[0290] Item 51. The valve unit according to any one of Items 36 to 50, having a tubular or cylindrical cross-sectional shape.

[0291] Item 52. A valve unit according to item 43 or any item dependent therefrom, wherein the first sealing member forms a flange and / or the second sealing member forms a flange.

[0292] Item 53. A valve unit according to Item 43 or any item dependent therefrom, wherein the first sealing component has a first material or structural feature and the second sealing component has a second material or structural feature, wherein the first material or structural feature and the second material or structural feature are selected to allow reversible deformation.

[0293] Item 54. The valve unit of Item 53, wherein the first material characteristic and the second material characteristic are related to at least one of elastic modulus and yield strength.

[0294] Item 55. The valve unit of Item 53 or 54, wherein the first material characteristic and the second material characteristic are the same.

[0295] Item 56. The valve unit according to any one of Items 53 to 55, wherein the first structural feature and / or the second structural feature is related to thickness.

[0296] Item 57. The valve unit according to any one of items 36 to 56, made of an elastomeric material.

[0297] Item 58. A valve unit according to item 36 or any item dependent therefrom, wherein the first sealing surface is not formed integrally with the fluid supply chamber or is removable from the fluid supply chamber.

[0298] Item 59. A valve unit according to Item 36 or any item appended thereto, wherein the first sealing surface is formed integrally with the fluid supply chamber.

[0299] Item 60. A valve unit according to Item 45 or any item subordinate thereto, further comprising a body extending between the first port and the second port, wherein the body is made of a material that can be reversibly or elastically deformed to allow the closest distance between the first sealing surface and the second sealing surface to increase from the closest distance in a non-connected state to the closest distance when the valve unit is connected to the fluid supply chamber, so that when the valve unit is connected to the fluid supply chamber, the valve unit is in a tensioned state.

[0300] Item 61. A valve unit according to Item 60, wherein the body includes an inner wall.

[0301] Item 62. The valve unit according to item 36 or any item dependent therefrom, wherein the fluid channel is formed by the inner wall and extends along the longitudinal center axis of the valve unit, and the fluid channel comprises:

[0302] a first section of the inner wall close to the second port having a first cross section,

[0303] a second section of the inner wall extending from an end of the first section along the longitudinal axis and having a second cross-section that is larger than the first cross-section,

[0304] Wherein the first section of the inner wall is arranged to engage the prong connector when the prong connector is inserted into the fluid passage to engage the valve.

[0305] Item 63. The valve unit of Item 62, wherein the valve is arranged between the first port and the second section.

[0306] Item 64. The valve unit according to Item 62 or 63, wherein the second cross section gradually increases along the longitudinal axis toward the first port.

[0307] Item 65. A valve unit according to any one of Items 62 to 64, wherein the first section or the second section extends symmetrically around the longitudinal center axis.

[0308] Item 66. A valve unit according to any one of Items 62 to 65, wherein the first section is made of a material that can be reversibly or elastically deformed so that the first section is under tension when the pointed connector is inserted into the fluid channel to engage the valve.

[0309] Item 67. The valve unit of any one of Items 62 to 66, wherein the first section forms a seal with a corresponding outer section of the pointed connector when the pointed connector is inserted into the fluid passage to engage the valve.

[0310] Item 68. The valve unit of any one of Items 62 to 67, wherein the first section forms an interference fit with the entire periphery of the pointed connector when the pointed connector is inserted into the fluid passage to engage the valve.

[0311] Item 69. A valve unit according to any one of Items 36 to 68, wherein the fluid channel is formed along the longitudinal center axis of the valve unit, and wherein the valve is arranged longitudinally in the fluid channel between the first port and the second port for controlling the flow rate of the fluid between the first port and the second port.

[0312] Item 70. A valve unit according to Item 69 when subordinate to Item 36 or any item subordinate thereto, wherein the valve is arranged in the fluid channel along the longitudinal center axis between a first point of the longitudinal center axis and the second port, wherein the first point is related to the point of the longitudinal center axis where the plane including the first sealing surface intersects.

[0313] Item 71. A valve unit according to Item 69 when subordinate to Item 36 or any item subordinate thereto, wherein the valve is arranged in the fluid channel along the longitudinal center axis between a first point of the longitudinal center axis and the second port, wherein the first point is defined by a point of the longitudinal axis intersecting a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal center axis, and the plane intersecting with a point of the first sealing surface closest to the second port.

[0314] Item 72. A valve unit for a fluid supply chamber of a respiratory support system, the respiratory support system providing humidified respiratory gas, the valve unit comprising:

[0315] a first port and a second port, and a fluid passage formed therebetween;

[0316] a valve disposed in the fluid passage for controlling a flow rate of the fluid between the first port and the second port;

[0317] wherein the fluid channel is formed by the inner wall of the valve unit and extends along the longitudinal center axis of the valve unit, and the fluid channel comprises:

[0318] a first section of the inner wall close to the second port having a first cross section,

[0319] a second section of the inner wall extending from an end of the first section along the longitudinal axis and having a second cross-section that is larger than the first cross-section,

[0320] Wherein the first section of the inner wall is arranged to engage the prong connector when the prong connector is inserted into the fluid passage to engage the valve.

[0321] Item 73. The valve unit of Item 72, wherein the valve is arranged between the first port and the second section.

[0322] Item 74. The valve unit according to Item 72 or 73, wherein the second cross section gradually increases along the longitudinal axis toward the first port.

[0323] Item 75. A valve unit according to any one of Items 72 to 74, wherein the first section or the second section extends symmetrically around the longitudinal center axis.

[0324] Item 76. A valve unit according to any one of Items 72 to 75, wherein the first section is made of a material that can be reversibly or elastically deformed so that the first section is under tension when the pointed connector is inserted into the fluid channel to engage the valve.

[0325] Item 77. The valve unit of any one of Items 72 to 76, wherein the first section forms a seal with a corresponding outer section of the pointed connector when the pointed connector is inserted into the fluid passage to engage the valve.

[0326] Item 78. The valve unit of any one of Items 72 to 77, wherein the first section forms an interference fit with the entire periphery of the pointed connector when the pointed connector is inserted into the fluid passage to engage the valve.

[0327] Item 79. The valve unit according to any one of Items 72 to 78, further comprising

[0328] a first sealing member having a first sealing surface arranged to seal an inner surface of the fluid supply chamber adjacent to the first port when the valve unit is connected to the fluid supply chamber;

[0329] A second sealing member has a second sealing surface arranged to seal an outer surface of the fluid supply chamber adjacent to the second port when the valve unit is connected to the fluid supply chamber.

[0330] Item 80. A valve unit according to Item 79, wherein at least one of the first sealing member, the second sealing member, the valve and / or the valve unit is reversibly or elastically deformable so that the valve unit is under tension when connected to the fluid supply chamber.

[0331] Item 81. A valve unit according to Item 79 or 80, wherein, in a non-connected rest state, the first sealing surface and the second sealing surface are arranged at a closest distance to each other that is smaller than a closest distance between the first sealing surface and the second sealing surface when the valve unit is connected to the fluid supply chamber.

[0332] Item 82. The valve unit of item 79 or any item dependent therefrom, wherein the valve in the rest state is closed to prevent fluid entering the first port from flowing therethrough to the second port.

[0333] Item 83. The valve unit of any one of Items 72 to 79, wherein the valve in the engaged state opens to allow fluid entering the first port to flow therethrough to the second port.

[0334] Item 84. The valve unit of Item 83, wherein the valve reaches its engaged state when a pointed connector inserted into the fluid passage engages the valve.

[0335] Item 85. The valve unit according to any one of Items 72 to 84, wherein the valve is a one-way valve or a check valve.

[0336] Item 86. The valve unit according to any one of Items 72 to 85, wherein the valve is a duckbill valve arranged to open when a pointed connector inserted into the fluid passage engages the duckbill valve.

[0337] Item 87. The valve unit according to any one of Items 72 to 86, having a tubular or cylindrical cross-sectional shape.

[0338] Item 88. A valve unit according to item 79 or any item dependent therefrom, wherein the first sealing member forms a flange and / or the second sealing member forms a flange.

[0339] Item 89. A valve unit according to Item 79 or any item dependent therefrom, wherein the first sealing member has a first material or structural feature and the second sealing member has a second material or structural feature, wherein the first material or structural feature and the second material or structural feature are selected to allow reversible deformation.

[0340] Item 90. The valve unit of Item 89, wherein the first material characteristic and the second material characteristic are related to at least one of elastic modulus and yield strength.

[0341] Item 91. A valve unit according to Item 89 or 90, wherein the first material characteristic and the second material characteristic are the same.

[0342] Item 92. A valve unit according to any one of Items 89 to 91, wherein the first structural feature and / or the second structural feature is related to thickness.

[0343] Item 93. A valve unit according to any one of Items 72 to 92, made of an elastomeric material.

[0344] Item 94. A valve unit according to Item 79 or any item dependent therefrom, wherein the first sealing surface is not formed integrally with the fluid supply chamber or is removable from the fluid supply chamber.

[0345] Item 95. A valve unit according to Item 79 or any item appended thereto, wherein the first sealing surface is formed integrally with the fluid supply chamber.

[0346] Item 96. A valve unit according to Item 81 or any item subordinate thereto, further comprising a body extending between the first port and the second port, wherein the body is made of a material that can be reversibly or elastically deformed to allow a closest distance between the first sealing surface and the second sealing surface to increase from a closest distance in a non-connected state to a closest distance when the valve unit is connected to the fluid supply chamber, so that when the valve unit is connected to the fluid supply chamber, the valve unit is in a tensioned state.

[0347] Item 97. A valve unit according to Item 96, wherein the body includes an inner wall.

[0348] Item 98. The valve unit according to any one of Items 72 to 97, wherein the valve further comprises:

[0349] a first flexible flap member having a first flap sealing surface extending between two respective lateral ends thereof,

[0350] a second flexible flap member having a second sealing surface extending between two respective lateral ends thereof, wherein the first flap sealing surface and the second sealing surface are arranged as follows:

[0351] engage with each other to form a seal, thereby closing the valve in the rest state, and

[0352] disengage from each other to open the valve in an engaged state, thereby allowing fluid to flow through the valve,

[0353] Each lateral terminal end of the first baffle sealing surface and the second baffle sealing surface is connected to the inner wall of the valve unit.

[0354] Item 99. The valve unit of Item 98, wherein each lateral terminal end of the first baffle sealing surface is integrally formed with a corresponding lateral terminal end of the second baffle sealing surface.

[0355] Item 100. A valve unit according to Item 98 or 99, wherein when the pointed connector has been inserted into the fluid channel to engage the valve, the first baffle sealing surface and the second baffle sealing surface in an engaged state engage at least a portion of the outer surface of the pointed connector.

[0356] Item 101. A valve unit according to any one of Items 72 to 100, wherein the inner wall forms a part of the fluid channel.

[0357] Item 102. A valve unit according to any one of Items 98 to 101, wherein the inner wall has a higher structural integrity than the first flexible baffle member and / or the second flexible baffle member.

[0358] Item 103. A valve unit according to any one of Items 98 to 102, wherein the inner wall has a greater hardness, thickness and / or rigidity than the first flexible baffle member and / or the second flexible baffle member.

[0359] Item 104. The valve unit of any one of Items 98 to 103, wherein each lateral terminal end of the first baffle sealing surface and the second baffle sealing surface is integrally formed with the inner wall of the valve unit.

[0360] Item 105. A valve unit according to any one of Items 72 to 104, wherein the fluid channel is formed along the longitudinal center axis of the valve unit, and wherein the valve is arranged longitudinally in the fluid channel between the first port and the second port for controlling the flow rate of the fluid between the first port and the second port.

[0361] Item 106. A valve unit according to Item 105 when subordinate to Item 79 or any item subordinate thereto, wherein the valve is arranged in the fluid channel along the longitudinal center axis between a first point of the longitudinal center axis and the second port, wherein the first point is related to the point where the longitudinal center axis intersects with a plane including the first sealing surface.

[0362] Item 107. A valve unit according to Item 105 when subordinate to Item 79 or any item subordinate thereto, wherein the valve is arranged in the fluid channel along the longitudinal center axis between a first point of the longitudinal center axis and the second port, wherein the first point is defined by a point of the longitudinal axis intersecting a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal center axis, and the plane intersecting the point of the first sealing surface closest to the second port.

[0363] Item 108. A component of a respiratory support system for providing humidified respiratory gases, comprising:

[0364] A valve unit according to any one of items 1 to 35, 35 to 71 or 72 to 107, and at least one of the following:

[0365] a fluid supply chamber for connection to the valve unit;

[0366] pointed connector;

[0367] a supply tube arranged at a first end thereof to be connected to the pointed connector;

[0368] a humidification chamber for connection to the second end of the supply tube;

[0369] a humidifier comprising said humidification chamber for connection to said second end of said supply tube; a gas source;

[0370] a patient interface for connecting to the gas source or the humidifier via a gas supply tube; and

[0371] A gas supply tube is used to connect between the gas source and / or the humidifier and / or the humidification chamber and the patient interface.

[0372] Item 109. The assembly of item 108, wherein the humidification chamber includes an inlet for receiving fluid from the supply tube, and

[0373] One or more floats are used to maintain the liquid level in the humidification chamber when the supply tube holding the fluid is connected to the inlet.

[0374] Item 110. The assembly of item 108 or 109, wherein the supply tube is releasably or permanently attached to the inlet of the humidification chamber.

[0375] Item 111. The assembly of any of Items 108 to 110, wherein the prong connector is releasably or permanently attached to the first end of the supply tube.

[0376] Item 112. A fluid supply chamber assembly for a respiratory support system for providing humidified respiratory gas, comprising:

[0377] A valve unit according to any one of items 1 to 35, 35 to 71 or 72 to 107, and

[0378] A fluid supply chamber is arranged to hold a certain volume of fluid therein and has a fluid access port, wherein the valve unit is connected to the fluid access port.

Claims

1. A valve unit for a fluid supply chamber of a respiratory support system, the respiratory support system providing humidified respiratory gas, the valve unit comprising: a first port and a second port, and a fluid passage formed therebetween; a valve disposed in the fluid passage for controlling a flow rate of the fluid between the first port and the second port; It is characterized in that the valve unit also includes: a first sealing member having a first sealing surface arranged to seal an inner surface of the fluid supply chamber adjacent to the first port when the valve unit is connected to the fluid supply chamber; A second sealing member has a second sealing surface arranged to seal an outer surface of the fluid supply chamber adjacent to the second port when the valve unit is connected to the fluid supply chamber.

2. The valve unit according to claim 1, characterized in that At least one of the first sealing member, the second sealing member, the valve and / or the valve unit is reversibly or elastically deformable such that the valve unit is placed under tension when connected to the fluid supply chamber.

3. The valve unit according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that In the non-connected rest state, the first sealing surface and the second sealing surface are arranged at a closest distance from each other that is smaller than a closest distance between the first sealing surface and the second sealing surface when the valve unit is connected to the fluid supply chamber.

4. The valve unit according to claim 1, characterized in that The valve in the rest state is closed to prevent fluid from entering the first port and flowing therethrough to the second port.

5. The valve unit according to claim 1, characterized in that The valve in the engaged state opens to allow fluid entering the first port to flow therethrough to the second port.

6. The valve unit according to claim 4, characterized in that The valve reaches its engaged state when a prong connector inserted into the fluid passage engages the valve.

7. The valve unit according to claim 1, characterized in that The valve is a one-way valve, a check valve or a duckbill valve arranged to open when a pointed connector inserted into the fluid passage engages the duckbill valve.

8. The valve unit according to claim 1, characterized in that Has a tubular or cylindrical cross-sectional shape.

9. The valve unit according to claim 1, characterized in that The first sealing member forms a flange and / or the second sealing member forms a flange.

10. The valve unit according to claim 1, characterized in that The first sealing member has a first material or structural feature and the second sealing member has a second material or structural feature, wherein the first material or structural feature and the second material or structural feature are selected to allow reversible deformation.

11. The valve unit according to claim 10, characterized in that The first material characteristic and the second material characteristic are related to at least one of elastic modulus and yield strength.

12. The valve unit according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that The first material characteristic and the second material characteristic are the same.

13. The valve unit according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that The first structural feature and / or the second structural feature is related to the thickness of the associated sealing member.

14. The valve unit according to claim 1, characterized in that Made of elastomeric material.

15. The valve unit according to claim 1, characterized in that The first sealing surface is not integrally formed with the fluid supply chamber or is removable from the fluid supply chamber.

16. The valve unit according to claim 1, characterized in that The first sealing surface is integrally formed with the fluid supply chamber.

17. The valve unit according to claim 3, characterized in that It also includes a body extending between the first port and the second port, wherein the body is made of a material that can be reversibly or elastically deformed to allow a closest distance between the first sealing surface and the second sealing surface to increase from a closest distance in a non-connected state to a closest distance when the valve unit is connected to the fluid supply chamber, so that when the valve unit is connected to the fluid supply chamber, the valve unit is in a tensioned state.

18. The valve unit according to claim 1, characterized in that The valve further comprises: a first flexible flap member having a first flap sealing surface extending between two respective lateral ends thereof, a second flexible flap member having a second sealing surface extending between two respective lateral ends thereof, wherein the first flap sealing surface and the second sealing surface are arranged as follows: engage with each other to form a seal to close the valve in a rest state, and Disengage from each other to open the valve in an engaged state to allow fluid to flow through the valve, wherein each lateral terminal end of the first flapper sealing surface and the second flapper sealing surface is coupled to an inner wall of the valve unit.

19. The valve unit according to claim 18, characterized in that Each lateral terminal end of the first baffle sealing surface is integrally formed with a corresponding lateral terminal end of the second baffle sealing surface.

20. The valve unit according to claim 18 or 19, characterized in that When the prong connector has been inserted into the fluid passage to engage the valve, the first and second flapper sealing surfaces in an engaged state engage at least a portion of an outer surface of the prong connector.

21. The valve unit according to claim 18 or 19, characterized in that The inner wall forms a portion of the fluid channel.

22. The valve unit according to claim 18 or 19, characterized in that The inner wall has a higher structural integrity than the first flexible baffle member and / or the second flexible baffle member.

23. The valve unit according to claim 18 or 19, characterized in that The inner wall has a greater hardness, thickness and / or rigidity than the first flexible baffle member and / or the second flexible baffle member.

24. The valve unit according to claim 18 or 19, characterized in that Each lateral terminal end of the first flapper sealing surface and the second flapper sealing surface is integrally formed with the inner wall of the valve unit.

25. The valve unit according to claim 1, characterized in that The fluid channel is formed by an inner wall of the valve unit and extends along a longitudinal center axis of the valve unit, and the fluid channel comprises: a first section of the inner wall close to the second port having a first cross section, a second section of the inner wall extending from an end of the first section along the longitudinal axis and having a second cross-section that is larger than the first cross-section, Wherein the first section of the inner wall is arranged to engage the prong connector when the prong connector is inserted into the fluid passage to engage the valve.

26. The valve unit according to claim 25, characterized in that The valve is disposed between the first port and the second section.

27. The valve unit according to claim 25 or 26, characterized in that The second cross-section gradually increases along the longitudinal axis toward the first port.

28. The valve unit according to claim 25 or 26, characterized in that The first section or the second section extends symmetrically around the longitudinal center axis.

29. The valve unit according to claim 25 or 26, characterized in that The first section is made of a reversibly or elastically deformable material such that the first section is placed under tension when the prong connector is inserted into the fluid passage to engage the valve.

30. The valve unit according to claim 25 or 26, characterized in that The first section forms a seal with a corresponding outer section of the prong connector when the prong connector is inserted into the fluid passage to engage the valve.

31. The valve unit according to claim 25 or 26, characterized in that The first section forms an interference fit with the entire periphery of the prong connector when the prong connector is inserted into the fluid passage to engage the valve.

32. The valve unit according to claim 1, characterized in that The fluid passage is formed along a longitudinal center axis of the valve unit, and wherein the valve is disposed in the fluid passage in the longitudinal direction between the first port and the second port for controlling a flow rate of the fluid between the first port and the second port.

33. The valve unit according to claim 32, characterized in that The valve is disposed in the fluid passage along the longitudinal central axis between a first point of the longitudinal central axis and the second port, wherein the first point is related to a point of the longitudinal central axis that intersects a plane including the first sealing surface.

34. A valve unit according to claim 32 or 33, characterised in that The valve is arranged in the fluid channel along the longitudinal central axis between a first point of the longitudinal central axis and the second port, wherein the first point is defined by the point of the longitudinal axis intersecting a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal central axis, and the plane intersecting the point of the first sealing surface closest to the second port.

Images