Patient interface

Abstract

A nasal interface (100) comprising an interface body (110) comprising a gases flow channel (125), a first nasal delivery element (111), a second nasal delivery element (112), and a first gases port (121) in the interface body (110). The first nasal delivery element (111) and second nasal delivery element (112) being a non-sealing nasal delivery element. A bias flow vent (340) for enabling exhaled gases to be expelled out of the interface body (110). Wherein the nasal interface (100) is configured to create an asymmetric flow of gases at a patient's nasal airways.

Description

PATIENT INTERFACE

[0001] This application claims priority from United States Provisional Application No. 63 / 686581 filed on 23 August 2024, entitled 'Patient Interface', and from United States Provisional Application No. 63 / 782682 filed on 3 April 2025, entitled 'Patient Interface', the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to a patient interface with a nasal interface for delivering respiratory gases to patient airways.BACKGROUND

[0003] Respiratory gases can be provided to a patient. The respiratory gases are delivered through a patient interface. The patient interface may take numerous forms, for instance, where masks are used, these can be a mask over the nose and mouth, a mask exclusively for the nose or a mask exclusively for the mouth, or a combination of nose and mouth masks. Separate nasal and oral masks can also be used together. Rather than having a mask that surrounds an airway, an interface may be used such as nasal or oral cannula. These too may be combined with the various masks.

[0004] When using a nasal interface of a patient interface, the respiratory gases may be delivered using nasal delivery elements. A nasal delivery element is inserted into the nose of a patient to deliver the required therapy. Pairs of nasal delivery elements may be used, one for each naris. Some nasal delivery elements may be required to seal or semi-seal at the nose, or may not be required to seal at the nose, to deliver the therapy.

[0005] Non-sealing patient interfaces have benefits such as preventing barotrauma effects (e.g., tissue damage to the airways and / or lungs due to differences in pressure relative to standard atmospheric pressure). There is a desire to provide improvements in patient interfaces.SUMMARY

[0006] A respiratory interface and respiratory therapy system are disclosed that use nasal flow, e.g. through nasal delivery elements, in a nasal interface of a patient interface to deliver respiratory gases to a patient. This delivery may be via asymmetrical flow. Asymmetrical flow provides the patient with increased dead space clearance in the upper airways. Noise can also be reduced due to a decrease in peak expiratory pressure.

[0007] In accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a nasal interface is disclosed, the nasal interface comprising: an interface body comprising a gases flow channel, a first nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a first naris of the patient, a second nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a second naris of the patient, wherein at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is a non-sealing nasal delivery element, a gases inlet port in the interface body and in fluid communication with the gases flow channel, the gases inlet port for receiving incoming respiratory gases from a gases supply conduit and enabling the incoming respiratory gases to be delivered into the interface body, and a bias flow vent for enabling exhaled gases to be expelled out of the interface body, the bias flow vent positioned downstream of the first nasal delivery element, wherein the nasal interface is configured to create an asymmetric flow of gases at a patient's nasal airways.

[0008] In accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a nasal interface is disclosed, the nasal interface comprising: an interface body comprising a gases flow channel, a first nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a first naris of the patient, a second nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a second naris of the patient, wherein at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is a non-sealing nasal delivery element, a gases inlet port in the interface body and in fluid communication with the gases flow channel, the gases inlet port for receiving incoming respiratory gases from a gases supply conduit and enabling the incoming respiratory gases to be delivered into the interface body, wherein the nasal interface is configured to create an asymmetric flow of gases at a patient's nasal airways.

[0009] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a bias flow vent for enabling exhaled gases to be expelled out of the interface body.

[0010] In some configurations, the bias flow vent positioned downstream of the first nasal delivery element.

[0011] In some configurations, the at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is the non-sealing nasal delivery element and is configured to not form a seal with the respective naris of the patient in use.

[0012] In some configurations, the at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is exclusive of sealing with the respective naris of the patient.

[0013] In some configurations, the gases inlet port comprises two or a plurality of gases inlet ports.

[0014] In some configurations, the bias flow vent is downstream of the second nasal delivery element.

[0015] In some configurations, the bias flow vent is more proximal the second nasal delivery element.

[0016] In some configurations, the bias flow vent is between the first and second nasal delivery elements.

[0017] In some configurations, the at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element wherein the gases inlet port points substantially toward or is substantially directed toward the first nasal delivery element.

[0018] In some configurations, the gases inlet is arranged to direct a larger proportion of the incoming respiratory gases towards the first nasal delivery element than the second nasal delivery element.

[0019] In some configurations, the nasal interface is configured to create an asymmetric flow of gases and net pressure.

[0020] In some configurations, the gases inlet port is proximal to the first nasal delivery element and distal from the second nasal delivery element to create or contribute to the asymmetric flow.

[0021] In some configurations, the nasal interface is configured to receive the incoming respiratory gases from the gases inlet port and to provide, from the incoming respiratory gases, a first flow stream of gases configured to be substantially provided to the first naris of the patient in use and a second flow stream of gases configured to be substantially provided to the second naris of the patient in use, and is configured to direct more of the incoming respiratory gases to the first flow stream of gases than to the second flow stream of gases to create or contribute to the asymmetric flow.

[0022] In some configurations, the nasal interface is configured to receive the incoming respiratory gases from the gases inlet port and to provide, from the incoming respiratory gases, a first flow stream of gases configured to be substantially provided to the first nasal delivery element and a second flow stream of gases configured to be substantially provided to the second nasal delivery element, and is configured to directmore of the incoming respiratory gases to the first flow stream of gases than to the second flow stream of gases to create or contribute to the asymmetric flow.

[0023] In some configurations, wherein the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element lie substantially in a plane of the interface body that is transverse to a first midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar with the sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

[0024] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element are symmetrical about the midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar with the sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

[0025] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element are each substantially straight.

[0026] In some configurations, one of the nasal delivery elements is larger than the other of the nasal delivery elements.

[0027] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element is larger than the second nasal delivery element.

[0028] In some configurations, the cross section of the internal flow area of the larger nasal delivery element is greater than that of the other nasal delivery element.

[0029] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a pair of side arms that extend in opposed laterally outward directions.

[0030] In some configurations the pair of side arms are configured to be moveable to follow the contours of the face.

[0031] In some configurations, the side arms are formed of a flexible material.

[0032] In some configurations, the side arms comprise an attachment button configured to selectively connect to a corresponding button hole.

[0033] In some configurations, a headgear comprises the button hole for connection to the attachment button.

[0034] In some configurations, a headgear strap or headgear connecting portion part of the headgear comprises the button hole for connection to the attachment button.

[0035] In some configurations, the attachment button is radially pivotable about the axis of the button hole.

[0036] In some configurations, each side arm comprises either a ball portion or a socket portion of a ball and socket joint configured to moveably connect to a corresponding ball or socket portion on a headgear connecting portion for connecting to a portion of a headgear.

[0037] In some configurations, the ball portion comprises at least one protrusion to limit the range of articulation between the ball portion and the socket portion.

[0038] In some configurations, at least one side arm comprises a buckle.

[0039] In some configurations, the buckle is formed as a figure of eight.

[0040] In some configurations, the bias flow vent comprises an aperture or an aperture and a diffuser.

[0041] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprising at least one baffle extending along the gases flow channel from a region corresponding generally to the first gases port toward a region corresponding generally to the bias flow vent.

[0042] In some configurations, the at least one baffle is arranged such that when respiratory gases are delivered into the interface body through the gases inlet port, they pass along the baffle to the first nasal delivery element and along the baffle to the second nasal delivery element, and such that exhaled gases substantially pass along the baffle to the bias flow vent.

[0043] In some configurations, there are a plurality of the spaced apart baffles extending along the gases flow channel.

[0044] In some configurations, the at least one baffle extend across the interface body, a frame portion, or both an interface body and a frame portion of the nasal interface.

[0045] In some configurations, at least one of the nasal delivery elements has a tapering wall portion.

[0046] In some configurations, the tapering wall portion in a region proximal to the gases flow channel is thicker than the tapering wall portion in a region proximal to a gases outlet of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0047] In some configurations, a base of at least one of the nasal delivery elements has an angled portion.

[0048] In some configurations, the base has a frustoconical shape.

[0049] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a connector coupled to, or defining, the gases inlet port.

[0050] In some configurations, the connector comprises a gases delivery portion to couple to, or defining, the gases inlet port of the interface body, and a gases receipt portion configured to receive incoming respiratory gases from the gases supply conduit and to deliver the incoming respiratory gases to the gases delivery portion.

[0051] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a gases delivery elbow coupled to, or defining, the gases inlet port.

[0052] In some configurations, the gases delivery elbow comprises a gases delivery portion extending in a first direction to couple to, or defining, the gases inlet port of the interface body, and a gases receipt portion extending in a second direction and configured to receive incoming respiratory gases from the gases supply conduit and to deliver the incoming respiratory gases to the gases delivery portion, and wherein the first direction is transverse to the second direction.

[0053] In some configurations, the second direction is a laterally outward direction.

[0054] In some configurations, the elbow may be configured to redirect the gases flow by more than 30 degrees, by more than 60 degrees or by approximately 90 degrees.

[0055] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element comprises a first gases outlet, wherein the first gases outlet defines a first axis corresponding to a direction of gases flow through the first gases outlet, and wherein the gases inlet port defines a second axis corresponding to a direction of gases flow through the gases inlet, and wherein the first axis and second axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 90 degrees relative to each other.

[0056] In some configurations, the first axis and second axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 60 degrees relative to each other.

[0057] In some configurations, the first axis and second axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 45 degrees relative to each other.

[0058] In some configurations, the first axis and second axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 30 degrees relative to each other.

[0059] In some configurations, the first axis and second axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 15 degrees relative to each other.

[0060] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element comprises a first gases outlet, wherein the first gases outlet defines a first axis corresponding to a direction of gases flow through the first gases outlet, and wherein the gases inlet port defines an inlet axis corresponding to a direction of gases flow through the gases inlet, and wherein the first axis and inlet axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 90 degrees relative to each other. The first axis and the inlet axis may be aligned with each other. Accordingly, an angle between the first axis and the inlet axis may be 0 degrees.

[0061] In some configurations, the first axis and inlet axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 60 degrees relative to each other.

[0062] In some configurations, the first axis and inlet axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 45 degrees relative to each other.

[0063] In some configurations, the first axis and inlet axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 30 degrees relative to each other.

[0064] In some configurations, the first axis and inlet axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 15 degrees relative to each other.

[0065] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a conduit retainer to couple the gases supply conduit to a headgear of the nasal interface.

[0066] In some configurations, the conduit retainer comprises an annular portion to moveably receive the gases supply conduit.

[0067] In some configurations, the conduit retainer is positioned laterally outward of the elbow and on a headgear strap adjacent to a coupling of the headgear strap with a side arm of the interface body.

[0068] In some configurations, the conduit retainer is positioned laterally outward of the elbow and on a side arm adjacent to a coupling of a headgear strap with the side arm of the interface body.

[0069] In some configurations, the conduit retainer is positioned laterally outward of the connector and on a headgear strap adjacent to a coupling of the headgear strap with a side arm of the interface body.

[0070] In some configurations, the conduit retainer is positioned laterally outward of the connector and on a side arm adjacent to a coupling of a headgear strap with the side arm of the interface body.

[0071] In some configurations, the annular portion of the conduit retainer is C- shaped.

[0072] In some configurations, the conduit retainer comprises a pair of inwardly facing arms forming a channel for a strap or arm to pass therethrough.

[0073] In some configurations, the pair of inwardly facing arms maintain a space or gap in-between them.

[0074] In some configurations, the interface body comprises an external gases channel in an exterior of the interface body and adjacent at least one of the nasal delivery elements and configured to enable a flow of gases through the external gases channel.

[0075] In some configurations, the external gases channel extends along at least part of the main body portion.

[0076] In some configurations, the external gases channel extends from at or adjacent a base of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements, away from the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0077] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a frame portion, and wherein the interface body comprises the main body portion.

[0078] In some configurations, one of the nasal delivery elements is larger than the other of the nasal delivery elements, and wherein the external gases channel is adjacent a smaller one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0079] In some configurations, the external gases channel extends along at least part of the main body portion and along at least part of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0080] In some configurations, the external gases channel extends to a tip of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements that comprises a gases outlet.

[0081] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a plurality of the external gases channels adjacent the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0082] In some configurations, at least one of the external gases channels is adjacent each of the nasal delivery elements.

[0083] In some configurations, a plurality of the external gases channels is adjacent each of the nasal delivery elements.

[0084] In some configurations, the external gases channel has an expanding or bifurcated configuration in region distal from the at least one of the nasal delivery elements, to enable gases flow away from the frame.

[0085] In some configurations, the interface body comprises an external cutout in an exterior of the interface body and adjacent at least one of the nasal delivery elements and configured to enable a flow of gases through the external cutout.

[0086] In some configurations, the external cutout extends from or adjacently from at least one of the nasal delivery elements along part of a main body portion of the interface body to a lateral edge of the interface body.

[0087] In some configurations, the external cutout extends around or adjacently around a base of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements, and away from the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0088] In some configurations, the external cutout is a recess in the main body portion of the interface body.

[0089] In some configurations, walls of the recess are formed at a substantially transverse angle relative to the surface of the main body portion.

[0090] In some configurations, walls of the recess are formed at an angle between about 35 and 60 degrees relative to the surface of the main body portion.

[0091] In some configurations, the external cutout comprises parallel sides extending between the lateral edge to an arc extending around the base of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0092] In some configurations, the arc of the external cutout shares a central axis with the at least one nasal delivery element.

[0093] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a second external cutout extending from or adjacently from the other one of the nasal delivery elements along part of a main body portion of the interface body to the opposing lateral edge of the interface body.

[0094] In some configurations, the first and second external cutouts are symmetrical about a midline plane through the interface body, wherein the midline plane is parallel to a sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

[0095] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a frame portion and a cushion portion, the cushion portion comprising an opening for receiving at least a portion of a frame for supporting the nasal interface, wherein the frame portion and cushion portion are inter-engageable.

[0096] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises the inlet gases port, and wherein the cushion portion comprises the first delivery element and the second delivery element.

[0097] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a bias flow vent for enabling exhaled gases to be expelled out of the interface body, wherein the frame portion comprises the bias flow vent.

[0098] In some configurations, the frame portion extends between the inlet gases port and the bias flow vent and forming at least part of an outer surface of the interface body.

[0099] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises a groove arranged around at least a portion of its periphery, at least a portion of an edge of the opening of the cushion portion receivable in the groove.

[0100] In some configurations, a surface of the frame portion encompassed by its periphery is substantially planar.

[0101] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises enlarged lateral portions relative to a substantially narrowed central portion of the frame portion.

[0102] In some configurations, the frame member tapers toward the enlarged lateral portions from a substantially laterally central position of the frame portion.

[0103] In some configurations, the surface of the frame portion has a substantially hour-glass shaped outline.

[0104] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises narrowed lateral portions relative to a substantially enlarged laterally central portion of the frame portion.

[0105] In some configurations, the frame member tapers toward the narrowed lateral portions from a substantially laterally central position of the frame portion.

[0106] In some configurations, the frame member comprises a substantially straight upper edge and a substantially curved lower edge.

[0107] In some configurations, the surface of the frame portion has a substantially elongated circle segment shaped outline.

[0108] In some configurations, the frame member comprises substantially straight upper and lower edges.

[0109] In some configurations, the surface of the frame portion has a substantially stadium-shaped outline.

[0110] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises a first side arm and a second side arm connected at its respective lateral edges.

[0111] In some configurations, the frame portion, first side arm and second side arm are formed as a unitary member.

[0112] In some configurations, the interface body is symmetrical about a second midline plane of the interface body that is transverse to a first midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar to a sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

[0113] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises an external cutout in an exterior of the cushion portion and adjacent at least one of the nasal delivery elements and configured to enable a flow of gases through the external cutout.

[0114] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a pair of side arms that extend in opposed laterally outward directions, wherein the pair of side arms are configured to hinged ly articulate to follow the contours of the face.

[0115] In some configurations, the side arms are formed of a flexible material.

[0116] In some configurations, each side arm comprises at least one living hinge comprising an area or line of thinned material relative to the remaining material of the side arm, the thinned material being more flexible relative to the remaining material of the side arm and the side arm configured to hingedly articulate at the living hinge.

[0117] In some configurations, the living hinge comprises two intersecting lines of thinned material forming an X-shape on the side arm, the living hinge configured to hinged ly articulate along the lines of the X-shape.

[0118] In some configurations, the living hinge comprises at least one line of thinned material extending substantially vertically across the side arm, the living hinge configured to hingedly articulate along the at least one line.

[0119] In some configurations, the living hinge further comprises a further line of thinned material extending substantially vertically across the side arm, the one line is separated from the further line and the living hinge configured to hingedly articulate along the one line and / or further line.

[0120] In some configurations, the living hinge comprises an area of thinned material, the area of thinner material formed of two opposing triangular shapes with their respective apices meeting at the vertical midpoint of the side arm, the living hinge configured to hingedly articulate along any line passing through the thinned material.

[0121] In some configurations, the living hinge is formed on the patient facing side of the side arms of when in use.

[0122] In some configurations, the living hinge is configured hingedly articulate along the hinge direction with a maximum angle of 90 degrees relative to the side arm.

[0123] In some configurations, the interface body is symmetrical about a second midline plane of the interface body that is transverse to a first midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar to a sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

[0124] In some configurations, the interface body comprises at least one cheek pad positioned on straps or arms connected to lateral portions of the interface body and configured to be positioned on a patient's cheek when in use.

[0125] In some configurations, side arms or headgear arms comprise cheek pads.

[0126] In some configurations, the cheek pads are formed of a flexible material to allow the cheek pads to conform to a patient's cheek.

[0127] In some configurations, the cheek pad has a bulbous or oval shape extending in a patient direction from the strap or arm.

[0128] In some configurations, the cheek pad is formed having a substantially tubular body with a lateral channel extending therethrough.

[0129] In some configurations, the cheek pad is formed as a hollow body.

[0130] In some configurations, the cheek pad comprises a pad opening configured to inter-engage with a hooking connection formed on the strap or arm for securing the cheek pad to the strap or arm.

[0131] In some configurations, the hooking connection comprises slot openings for securing at least one strap.

[0132] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a pair of side arms that extend in opposed laterally outward directions, wherein the pair of side arms comprise buckles at their distal ends for connecting to straps.

[0133] In some configurations, the nasal interface is configured to be supported on a patient's head via headgear, the headgear comprising a securing member positionable at a rear of a patient's head, the securing member configured to extend around a portion of a circumference of the patient's head and configured to be secured in the hair of a patient in the manner of a comb.

[0134] In some configurations, the securing member comprises a plurality of substantially vertically arranged struts, the channels between the struts configured to receive a patient's hair.

[0135] In some configurations, adjacent struts are connected by loops at opposing vertical ends of the struts forming a substantially S- or Z-shaped sinusoidal pattern.

[0136] In some configurations, the securing member comprises secondary loops arranged between the adjacent struts vertically separated from the loops.

[0137] In some configurations, the loops comprise webbing.

[0138] In some configurations, the struts have a uniform length.

[0139] In some configurations, the length of the struts reduces from a mid-point of the securing member to each end (lateral end) of the securing member.

[0140] In some configurations, the securing member is flexible to allow a circumferential expansion.

[0141] In some configurations, the securing member comprises buckles at each of its circumferential ends.

[0142] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element comprises a first gases outlet, wherein the first gases outlet defines a first axis corresponding to a direction of gases flow through the first gases outlet, and wherein the gases inlet port defines an inlet axis corresponding to a direction of gases flow through the gases inlet, and wherein the first axis and inlet axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 90 degrees relative to each other. The first axis and the inlet axis may be aligned witheach other. Accordingly, an angle between the first axis and the inlet axis may be 0 degrees.

[0143] In some configurations, the first axis and inlet axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 60 degrees relative to each other.

[0144] In some configurations, the first axis and inlet axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 45 degrees relative to each other.

[0145] In some configurations, the first axis and inlet axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 30 degrees relative to each other.

[0146] In some configurations, the first axis and inlet axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 15 degrees relative to each other.

[0147] In some configurations, the second nasal delivery element comprises a second gases outlet, wherein the second gases outlet defines a second axis corresponding to a direction of gases flow through the second gases outlet. The first axis, the second axis and the inlet axis may all lie within the plane of the interface body that is transverse to the first midline plane.

[0148] In some configurations, the first axis and the second axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 90 degrees relative to each other, optionally less than 60 degrees, 45 degrees, 30 degrees or 15 degrees relative to each other.

[0149] In some configurations, the bias flow vent defines an outlet axis corresponding to a direction of gases flow through the bias flow vent. The second axis and the outlet axis may be aligned with each other. Accordingly, an angle between the second axis and the outlet axis may be 0 degrees. The outlet axis and the second axis may be at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 90 degrees relative to each other, optionally less than 60 degrees, 45 degrees, 30 degrees or 15 degrees relative to each other.

[0150] In some configurations, the gases inlet port and the bias flow vent are provided on opposite sides of the midline plane. The gases inlet port and the bias flow vent may be symmetrical about the midline plane.

[0151] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a first side at which the first and second nasal delivery elements are provided and an opposite second side at which the inlet port as well as the bias flow vent are provided. The first side may be oriented towards the face of the user during use of the nasal interface and the second side may be oriented away from the face of the user during use of the nasal interface. The interface body as a whole may be curved, wherein a radial inner surface may form the first side and a radial outer surface may form the second side.

[0152] In accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a nasal interface is disclosed, the nasal interface comprising : an interface body comprising a gases flow channel, a first nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a first naris of the patient, a second nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a second naris of the patient, wherein at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is a non-sealing nasal delivery element, a gases inlet port in the interface body and in fluid communication with the gases flow channel, the gases inlet port for receiving incoming respiratory gases from a gases supply conduit and enabling the incoming respiratory gases to be delivered into the interface body, wherein the gases inlet port is arranged to direct the incoming respiratory gases towards the first nasal delivery element, and wherein the nasal interface is configured to create an asymmetric flow of gases at a patient's nasal airways.

[0153] In some configurations, the at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is the non-sealing nasal delivery element and is configured to not form a seal with the respective naris of the patient in use.

[0154] In some configurations, the gases inlet port points substantially toward the first nasal delivery element.

[0155] In some configurations, the gases inlet port is substantially directed toward the first nasal delivery element.

[0156] In some configurations, the at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is exclusive of sealing with the respective naris of the patient.

[0157] In some configurations, the gases inlet is arranged to direct a larger proportion of the incoming respiratory gases towards the first nasal delivery element than the second nasal delivery element.

[0158] In some configurations, the gases inlet port comprises two or a plurality of gases inlet ports.

[0159] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element comprises a first gases outlet, wherein the first gases outlet defines a first axis corresponding to a direction of gases flow through the first gases outlet, and wherein the gases inlet port defines a second axis corresponding to a direction of gases flow through the gases inlet, and wherein the first axis and second axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 90 degrees relative to each other.

[0160] In some configurations, the first axis and second axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 60 degrees relative to each other.

[0161] In some configurations, the first axis and second axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 45 degrees relative to each other.

[0162] In some configurations, the first axis and second axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 30 degrees relative to each other.

[0163] In some configurations, the first axis and second axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 15 degrees relative to each other.

[0164] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element comprises a first gases outlet, wherein the first gases outlet defines a first axis corresponding to a direction of gases flow through the first gases outlet, and wherein the gases inlet port defines an inlet axis corresponding to a direction of gases flow through the gases inlet, and wherein the first axis and inlet axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 90 degrees relative to each other. The first axis and the inlet axis may be aligned with each other. Accordingly, an angle between the first axis and the inlet axis may be 0 degrees.

[0165] In some configurations, the first axis and inlet axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 60 degrees relative to each other.

[0166] In some configurations, the first axis and inlet axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 45 degrees relative to each other.

[0167] In some configurations, the first axis and inlet axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 30 degrees relative to each other.

[0168] In some configurations, the first axis and inlet axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 15 degrees relative to each other.

[0169] In some configurations, the gases inlet port is proximal to the first nasal delivery element and distal from the second nasal delivery element to create or contribute to the asymmetric flow.

[0170] In some configurations, the nasal interface is configured to create an asymmetric flow of gases and net pressure.

[0171] In some configurations, the nasal interface is configured to receive the incoming respiratory gases from the gases inlet port and to provide, from the incoming respiratory gases, a first flow stream of gases configured to be substantially provided to the first naris of the patient in use and a second flow stream of gases configured to be substantially provided to the second naris of the patient in use, and is configured to directmore of the incoming respiratory gases to the first flow stream of gases than to the second flow stream of gases to create or contribute to the asymmetric flow.

[0172] In some configurations, the nasal interface is configured to receive the incoming respiratory gases from the gases inlet port and to provide, from the incoming respiratory gases, a first flow stream of gases configured to be substantially provided to the first nasal delivery element and a second flow stream of gases configured to be substantially provided to the second nasal delivery element, and is configured to direct more of the incoming respiratory gases to the first flow stream of gases than to the second flow stream of gases to create or contribute to the asymmetric flow.

[0173] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element lie substantially in a plane of the interface body that is transverse to a first midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar with the sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

[0174] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element are symmetrical about the midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar with the sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

[0175] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element are each substantially straight.

[0176] In some configurations, the one of the nasal delivery elements is larger than the other of the nasal delivery elements.

[0177] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element is larger than the second nasal delivery element.

[0178] In some configurations, the cross section of the internal flow area of the larger nasal delivery element is greater than that of the other nasal delivery element.

[0179] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a pair of side arms that extend in opposed laterally outward directions.

[0180] In some configurations the pair of side arms are configured to be moveable to follow the contours of the face.

[0181] In some configurations, the side arms are formed of a flexible material.

[0182] In some configurations, the side arms comprise an attachment button configured to selectively connect to a corresponding button hole.

[0183] In some configurations, a headgear comprises the button hole for connection to the attachment button.

[0184] In some configurations, a headgear strap or headgear connecting portion part of the headgear comprises the button hole for connection to the attachment button.

[0185] In some configurations, the attachment button is radially pivotable about the axis of the button hole.

[0186] In some configurations, each side arm comprises either a ball portion or a socket portion of a ball and socket joint configured to moveably connect to a corresponding ball or socket portion on a headgear connecting portion for connecting a headgear end portion of a headgear.

[0187] In some configurations, the ball portion comprises at least one protrusion to limit the range of articulation between the ball portion and the socket portion.

[0188] In some configurations, at least one side arm comprises a buckle.

[0189] In some configurations, the buckle is formed as a figure of eight.

[0190] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a bias flow vent for enabling exhaled gases to be expelled out of the interface body.

[0191] In some configurations, the bias flow vent positioned downstream of the first nasal delivery element.

[0192] In some configurations, the bias flow vent is downstream of the second nasal delivery element.

[0193] In some configurations, the bias flow vent is more proximal the second nasal delivery element.

[0194] In some configurations, the bias flow vent is between the first and second nasal delivery elements.

[0195] In some configurations, the bias flow vent comprises an aperture or an aperture and a diffuser.

[0196] In some configurations, at least one baffle extending along the gases flow channel from a region corresponding generally to the first gases port toward a region corresponding generally to the bias flow vent.

[0197] In some configurations, the at least one baffle is arranged such that when respiratory gases are delivered into the interface body through the gases inlet port, they pass along the baffle to the first nasal delivery element and along the baffle to the second nasal delivery element, and such that exhaled gases substantially pass along the baffle to the bias flow vent.

[0198] In some configurations, there are a plurality of the spaced apart baffles extending along the gases flow channel.

[0199] In some configurations, the at least one baffle extends across the interface body, a frame portion, or both the interface body and a frame portion of the nasal interface.

[0200] In some configurations, at least one of the nasal delivery elements has a tapering wall portion wherein the tapering wall portion in a region proximal to the gases flow channel is thicker than the tapering wall portion in a region proximal to a gases outlet of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0201] In some configurations, a base of at least one of the nasal delivery elements has an angled portion.

[0202] In some configurations, the base has a frustoconical shape.

[0203] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprising a connector coupled to, or defining, the gases inlet port.

[0204] In some configurations, the connector comprises a gases delivery portion to couple to, or defining, the gases inlet port of the interface body, and a gases receipt portion configured to receive incoming respiratory gases from the gases supply conduit and to deliver the incoming respiratory gases to the gases delivery portion.

[0205] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a gases delivery elbow coupled to, or defining, the gases inlet portion.

[0206] In some configurations, the gases delivery elbow comprises a gases delivery portion extending in a first direction to couple to, or defining, the gases inlet port of the interface body, and a gases receipt portion extending in a second direction and configured to receive the incoming respiratory gases from the gases supply conduit and to deliver the incoming respiratory gases to the gases delivery portion, and wherein the first direction is transverse to the second direction.

[0207] In some configurations, wherein the second direction is a laterally outward direction.

[0208] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a cap configured to at least partly cover the bias flow vent in use.

[0209] In some configurations, the cap is configured to substantially cover the bias flow vent in use.

[0210] In some configurations, the at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is the non-sealing nasal delivery element and is configured to not form a seal with the respective naris of the patient in use.

[0211] In some configurations, the at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is exclusive of sealing with the respective naris of the patient.

[0212] In some configurations, the cap comprises at least one opening to enable gases flow from the bias flow vent through the cap.

[0213] In some configurations, the cap comprises an annular configuration comprising a peripheral frame surrounding the opening.

[0214] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a frame portion, and wherein the bias flow vent is located in the frame portion.

[0215] In some configurations, the cap is tethered to the frame portion.

[0216] In some configurations, the cap is removably attached to the frame.

[0217] In some configurations, the interface body comprises an external gases channel in an exterior of the interface body and adjacent at least one of the nasal delivery elements and configured to enable a flow of gases through the external gases channel.

[0218] In some configurations, the external gases channel extends along at least part of the main body portion.

[0219] In some configurations, the external gases channel extends from at or adjacent a base of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements, away from the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0220] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a frame portion, and wherein the interface body comprises the main body portion.

[0221] In some configurations, one of the nasal delivery elements is larger than the other of the nasal delivery elements, and wherein the external gases channel is adjacent a smaller one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0222] In some configurations, the external gases channel extends along at least part of the main body portion and along at least part of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0223] In some configurations, the external gases channel extends to a tip of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements that comprises a gases outlet.

[0224] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a plurality of the external gases channels adjacent the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0225] In some configurations, at least one of the external gases channels adjacent each of the nasal delivery elements.

[0226] In some configurations, a plurality of the external gases channels adjacent each of the nasal delivery elements.

[0227] In some configurations, the external gases channel has an expanding or bifurcated configuration in region distal from the at least one of the nasal delivery elements, to enable gases flow away from the frame.

[0228] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a conduit retainer to couple the gases supply conduit to a headgear of the nasal interface.

[0229] In some configurations, the conduit retainer comprises an annular portion to moveably receive the gases supply conduit.

[0230] In some configurations, the conduit retainer is positioned laterally outward of the elbow and on a headgear strap adjacent to a coupling of the headgear strap with a side arm of the interface body.

[0231] In some configurations, the conduit retainer is positioned laterally outward of the elbow and on a side arm adjacent to a coupling of a headgear strap with the side arm of the interface body.

[0232] In some configurations, the conduit retainer is positioned laterally outward of the connector and on a headgear strap adjacent to a coupling of the headgear strap with a side arm of the interface body.

[0233] In some configurations, the conduit retainer is positioned laterally outward of the connector and on a side arm adjacent to a coupling of a headgear strap with the side arm of the interface body.

[0234] In some configurations, the annular portion of the conduit retainer is C- shaped.

[0235] In some configurations, the conduit retainer comprises a pair of inwardly facing arms forming a channel for a strap or arm to pass therethrough.

[0236] some configurations, the pair of inwardly facing arms maintain a space or gap in-between them.

[0237] In some configurations, the interface body comprises an external cutout in an exterior of the interface body and adjacent at least one of the nasal delivery elements and configured to enable a flow of gases through the external cutout.

[0238] In some configurations, the external cutout extends from or adjacently from at least one of the nasal delivery elements along part of a main body portion of the interface body to a lateral edge of the interface body.

[0239] In some configurations, the external cutout extends around or adjacently around a base of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements, and away from the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0240] In some configurations, the external cutout is a recess in the main body portion of the interface body.

[0241] In some configurations, walls of the recess are formed at a substantially transverse angle relative to the surface of the main body portion.

[0242] In some configurations, walls of the recess are formed at an angle between about 35 and 60 degrees relative to the surface of the main body portion.

[0243] In some configurations, the external cutout comprises parallel sides extending between the lateral edge to an arc extending around the base of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0244] In some configurations, the arc of the external cutout shares a central axis with the at least one nasal delivery element.

[0245] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a second external cutout extending from or adjacently from the other one of the nasal delivery elements along part of a main body portion of the interface body to the opposing lateral edge of the interface body.

[0246] In some configurations, the first and second external cutouts are symmetrical about a midline plane through the interface body, wherein the midline plane is parallel to a sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

[0247] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a frame portion and a cushion portion, the cushion portion comprising an opening for receiving at least a portion of a frame for supporting the nasal interface, wherein the frame portion and cushion portion are inter-engageable.

[0248] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises the inlet gases port, and wherein the cushion portion comprises the first delivery element and the second delivery element.

[0249] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a bias flow vent for enabling exhaled gases to be expelled out of the interface body, wherein the frame portion comprises the bias flow vent.

[0250] In some configurations, the frame portion extends between the inlet gases port and the bias flow vent and forming at least part of an outer surface of the interface body.

[0251] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises a groove arranged around at least a portion of its periphery, at least a portion of an edge of the opening of the cushion portion receivable in the groove.

[0252] In some configurations, a surface of the frame portion encompassed by its periphery is substantially planar.

[0253] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises enlarged lateral portions relative to a substantially narrowed central portion of the frame portion.

[0254] In some configurations, the frame member tapers toward the enlarged lateral portions from a substantially laterally central position of the frame portion.

[0255] In some configurations, the surface of the frame portion has a substantially hour-glass shaped outline.

[0256] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises narrowed lateral portions relative to a substantially enlarged laterally central portion of the frame portion.

[0257] In some configurations, the frame member tapers toward the narrowed lateral portions from a substantially laterally central position of the frame portion.

[0258] In some configurations, the frame member comprises a substantially straight upper edge and a substantially curved lower edge.

[0259] In some configurations, the surface of the frame portion has a substantially elongated circle segment shaped outline.

[0260] In some configurations, the frame member comprises substantially straight upper and lower edges.

[0261] In some configurations, the surface of the frame portion has a substantially stadium-shaped outline.

[0262] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises a first side arm and a second side arm connected at its respective lateral edges.

[0263] In some configurations, the frame portion, first side arm and second side arm are formed as a unitary member.

[0264] In some configurations, the interface body is symmetrical about a second midline plane of the interface body that is transverse to a first midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar to a sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

[0265] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises an external cutout in an exterior of the cushion portion and adjacent at least one of the nasal delivery elements and configured to enable a flow of gases through the external cutout.

[0266] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a pair of side arms that extend in opposed laterally outward directions, wherein the pair of side arms are configured to hinged ly articulate to follow the contours of the face.

[0267] In some configurations, the side arms are formed of a flexible material.

[0268] In some configurations, each side arm comprises at least one living hinge comprising an area or line of thinned material relative to the remaining material of the side arm, the thinned material being more flexible relative to the remaining material of the side arm and the side arm configured to hingedly articulate at the living hinge.

[0269] In some configurations, the living hinge comprises two intersecting lines of thinned material forming an X-shape on the side arm, the living hinge configured to hingedly articulate along the lines of the X-shape.

[0270] In some configurations, the living hinge comprises at least one line of thinned material extending substantially vertically across the side arm, the living hinge configured to hingedly articulate along the at least one line.

[0271] In some configurations, the living hinge further comprises a further line of thinned material extending substantially vertically across the side arm, the one line is separated from the further line and the living hinge configured to hingedly articulate along the one line and / or further line.

[0272] In some configurations, the living hinge comprises an area of thinned material, the area of thinner material formed of two opposing triangular shapes with their respective apices meeting at the vertical midpoint of the side arm, the living hinge configured to hingedly articulate along any line passing through the thinned material.

[0273] In some configurations, the living hinge is formed on the patient facing side of the side arms of when in use.

[0274] In some configurations, the living hinge is configured hingedly articulate along the hinge direction with a maximum angle of 90 degrees relative to the side arm.

[0275] In some configurations, the interface body is symmetrical about a second midline plane of the interface body that is transverse to a first midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar to a sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

[0276] In some configurations, the interface body comprises at least one cheek pad positioned on straps or arms connected to lateral portions of the interface body and configured to be positioned on a patient's cheek when in use.

[0277] In some configurations, side arms or headgear arms comprise cheek pads.

[0278] In some configurations, the cheek pads are formed of a flexible material to allow the cheek pads to conform to a patient's cheek.

[0279] In some configurations, the cheek pad has a bulbous or oval shape extending in a patient direction from the strap or arm.

[0280] In some configurations, the cheek pad is formed having a substantially tubular body with a lateral channel extending therethrough.

[0281] In some configurations, the cheek pad is formed as a hollow body.

[0282] In some configurations, the cheek pad comprises a pad opening configured to inter-engage with a hooking connection formed on the strap or arm for securing the cheek pad to the strap or arm.

[0283] In some configurations, the hooking connection comprises slot openings for securing at least one strap.

[0284] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a pair of side arms that extend in opposed laterally outward directions, wherein the pair of side arms comprise buckles at their distal ends for connecting to straps.

[0285] In some configurations, the nasal interface is configured to be supported on a patient's head via headgear, the headgear comprising a securing member positionable at a rear of a patient's head, the securing member configured to extend around a portion of a circumference of the patient's head and configured to be secured in the hair of a patient in the manner of a comb.

[0286] In some configurations, the securing member comprises a plurality of substantially vertically arranged struts, the channels between the struts configured to receive a patient's hair.

[0287] In some configurations, adjacent struts are connected by loops at opposing vertical ends of the struts forming a substantially S- or Z-shaped sinusoidal pattern.

[0288] In some configurations, the securing member comprises secondary loops arranged between the adjacent struts vertically separated from the loops.

[0289] In some configurations, the loops comprise webbing.

[0290] In some configurations, the struts have a uniform length.

[0291] In some configurations, the length of the struts reduces from a mid-point of the securing member to each end of the securing member.

[0292] In some configurations, the securing member is flexible to allow a circumferential (i.e. horizontal) expansion.

[0293] In some configurations, the securing member comprises buckles at each of its circumferential ends.

[0294] In accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a nasal interface is disclosed, the nasal interface comprising: an interface body comprising a gases flow channel, a first nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to delivergases to a first naris of the patient, a second nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a second naris of the patient, wherein at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is a non-sealing nasal delivery element, a gases inlet port in the interface body and in fluid communication with the gases flow channel, the gases inlet port for receiving incoming respiratory gases from a gases supply conduit and enabling the incoming respiratory gases to be delivered into the interface body, and a connector for coupling the gases supply conduit to the interface body and to enable the passage of the incoming respiratory gases from the gases supply conduit to the gases flow channel.

[0295] In some configurations, the connector is configured to reduce the turbulence of the flow of gases when entering the interface body.

[0296] In some configurations, the reduction in turbulence is compared to a nasal interface excluding a connector.

[0297] In accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a nasal interface is disclosed, the nasal interface comprising: an interface body comprising a gases flow channel, a first nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a first naris of the patient, a second nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a second naris of the patient, wherein at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is a non-sealing nasal delivery element, a gases inlet port in the interface body and in fluid communication with the gases flow channel, the gases inlet port for receiving incoming respiratory gases from a gases supply conduit and enabling the incoming respiratory gases to be delivered into the interface body, and an elbow for coupling the gases supply conduit to the interface body and to enable the passage of the incoming respiratory gases from the gases supply conduit to the gases flow channel.

[0298] In some configurations, the elbow is configured to reduce the turbulence of the flow of gases when entering the interface body.

[0299] In some configurations, the reduction in turbulence is compared to a nasal interface excluding the elbow.

[0300] In some configurations, the at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is the non-sealing nasal delivery element and is configured to not form a seal with the respective naris of the patient in use.

[0301] In some configurations, the at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is exclusive of sealing with the respective naris of the patient.

[0302] In some configurations, the gases inlet port comprises two or a plurality of gases inlet ports.

[0303] In some configurations, the elbow is coupled to or defines the gases inlet port.

[0304] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a frame portion.

[0305] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a frame portion and a cushion portion.

[0306] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises the gases inlet port, and wherein the interface body comprises the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element.

[0307] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises the gases inlet port, and wherein the cushion portion comprises the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element.

[0308] In some configurations, the elbow is integrally formed with the frame portion of the interface body.

[0309] In some configurations, the connector is integrally formed with the frame portion of the interface body.

[0310] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a conduit retainer to couple the gases supply conduit to a headgear of the nasal interface.

[0311] In some configurations, the conduit retainer comprises an annular portion to moveably receive the gases supply conduit.

[0312] In some configurations, the conduit retainer is positioned laterally outward of the elbow and on a headgear strap adjacent to a coupling of the headgear strap with a side arm of the interface body.

[0313] In some configurations, the conduit retainer is positioned laterally outward of the elbow and on a side arm adjacent to a coupling of a headgear strap with the side arm of the interface body.

[0314] In some configurations, the conduit retainer is positioned laterally outward of the connector and on a headgear strap adjacent to a coupling of the headgear strap with a side arm of the interface body.

[0315] In some configurations, the conduit retainer is positioned laterally outward of the connector and on a side arm adjacent to a coupling of a headgear strap with the side arm of the interface body.

[0316] In some configurations, the annular portion of the conduit retainer is C- shaped.

[0317] In some configurations, the conduit retainer comprises a pair of inwardly facing arms forming a channel for a strap or arm to pass therethrough.

[0318] some configurations, the pair of inwardly facing arms maintain a space or gap in-between them.

[0319] In some configurations, the nasal interface is configured to create an asymmetric flow of gases at a patient's nasal airways.

[0320] In some configurations, the nasal interface is configured to create an asymmetric flow of gases and net pressure.

[0321] In some configurations, the gases inlet port points substantially toward the first nasal delivery element.

[0322] In some configurations, the gases inlet port is substantially directed toward the first nasal delivery element.

[0323] In some configurations, the gases inlet port is arranged to direct a larger proportion of the incoming respiratory gases towards the first nasal delivery element than the second nasal delivery element.

[0324] In some configurations, the gases inlet port is proximal to the first nasal delivery element and distal from the second nasal delivery element to create or contribute to the asymmetric flow.

[0325] In some configurations, the nasal interface is configured to receive the incoming respiratory gases from the gases inlet port and to provide, from the incoming respiratory gases, a first flow stream of gases configured to be substantially provided to the first naris of the patient in use and a second flow stream of gases configured to be substantially provided to the second naris of the patient in use, and is configured to direct more of the incoming respiratory gases to the first flow stream of gases than to the second flow stream of gases to create or contribute to the asymmetric flow.

[0326] In some configurations, the nasal interface is configured to receive the incoming respiratory gases from the gases inlet port and to provide, from the incoming respiratory gases, a first flow stream of gases configured to be substantially provided to the first nasal delivery element and a second flow stream of gases configured to be substantially provided to the second nasal delivery element, and is configured to directmore of the incoming respiratory gases to the first flow stream of gases than to the second flow stream of gases to create or contribute to the asymmetric flow.

[0327] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element lie in a plane of the interface body that is transverse to a first midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar with the sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

[0328] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element are symmetrical about the midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar with the sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

[0329] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element are each substantially straight.

[0330] In some configurations, one of the nasal delivery elements is larger than the other of the nasal delivery elements.

[0331] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element is larger than the second nasal delivery element.

[0332] In some configurations, the cross section of the internal flow area of the larger nasal delivery element is greater than that of the other nasal delivery element.

[0333] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a pair of side arms that extend in opposed laterally outward directions.

[0334] In some configurations the pair of side arms are configured to be moveable to follow the contours of the face.

[0335] In some configurations, the side arms are formed of a flexible material.

[0336] In some configurations, the side arms comprise an attachment button configured to selectively connect to a corresponding button hole.

[0337] In some configurations, a headgear comprises the button hole for connection to the attachment button.

[0338] In some configurations, a headgear strap or headgear connecting portion part of the headgear comprises the button hole for connection to the attachment button.

[0339] In some configurations, the attachment button is radially pivotable about the axis of the button hole.

[0340] In some configurations, each side arm comprises either a ball portion or a socket portion of a ball and socket joint configured to moveably connect to a corresponding ball or socket portion on a headgear connecting portion for connecting a headgear end portion of a headgear.

[0341] In some configurations, the ball portion comprises at least one protrusion to limit the range of articulation between the ball portion and the socket portion.

[0342] In some configurations, at least one side arm comprises a buckle.

[0343] In some configurations, the buckle is formed as a figure of eight.

[0344] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprising a bias flow vent for enabling exhaled gases to be expelled out of the interface body.

[0345] In some configurations, the bias flow vent positioned downstream of the first nasal delivery element.

[0346] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprising at least one baffle extending along the gases flow channel from a region corresponding generally to the first gases port toward a region corresponding generally to the bias flow vent.

[0347] In some configurations, the at least one baffle is arranged such that when respiratory gases are delivered into the interface body through the gases inlet port, they pass along the baffle to the first nasal delivery element and along the baffle to the second nasal delivery element, and such that exhaled gases substantially pass along the baffle to the bias flow vent.

[0348] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprising a plurality of the spaced apart baffles extending along the gases flow channel.

[0349] In some configurations, the at least one baffle extends across the interface body, a frame portion, or both the interface body and a frame portion of the nasal interface.

[0350] In some configurations, at least one of the nasal delivery elements has a tapering wall portion wherein the tapering wall portion in a region proximal to the gases flow channel is thicker than the tapering wall portion in a region proximal to a gases outlet of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0351] In some configurations, a base of at least one of the nasal delivery elements has an angled portion.

[0352] In some configurations, the base has a frustoconical shape.

[0353] In some configurations, the connector comprises a gases delivery portion to couple to, or defining, the gases inlet port of the interface body, and a gases receipt portion configured to receive incoming respiratory gases from the gases supply conduit and to deliver the incoming respiratory gases to the gases delivery portion.

[0354] In some configurations, the gases delivery elbow comprises a gases delivery portion extending in a first direction to couple to, or defining, the gases inlet portion of the interface body, and a gases receipt portion extending in a second direction andconfigured to receive the incoming respiratory gases from the gases supply conduit and deliver the incoming respiratory gases to the gases delivery portion, and wherein the first direction is transverse to the second direction.

[0355] In some configurations, the second direction is a laterally outward direction.

[0356] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element comprises a first gases outlet, wherein the first gases outlet defines a first axis corresponding to a direction of gases flow through the first gases outlet, and wherein the gases inlet port defines a second axis corresponding to a direction of gases flow through the gases inlet, and wherein the first axis and second axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 90 degrees relative to each other.

[0357] In some configurations, the first axis and second axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 60 degrees relative to each other.

[0358] In some configurations, the first axis and second axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 45 degrees relative to each other.

[0359] In some configurations, the first axis and second axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 30 degrees relative to each other.

[0360] In some configurations, the first axis and second axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 15 degrees relative to each other.

[0361] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a cap configured to at least partly cover the bias flow vent in use.

[0362] In some configurations, the cap is configured to substantially cover the bias flow vent in use.

[0363] In some configurations, the at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is the non-sealing nasal delivery element and is configured to not form a seal with the respective naris of the patient in use.

[0364] In some configurations, the at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is exclusive of sealing with the respective naris of the patient.

[0365] In some configurations, the cap comprises at least one opening to enable gases flow from the bias flow vent through the cap.

[0366] In some configurations, the cap comprises an annular configuration comprising a peripheral frame surrounding the opening.

[0367] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a frame portion, and wherein the bias flow vent is located in the frame portion.

[0368] In some configurations, the cap is tethered to the frame portion.

[0369] In some configurations, the cap is removably attached to the frame.

[0370] In some configurations, the interface body comprises an external gases channel in an exterior of the interface body and adjacent at least one of the nasal delivery elements and configured to enable a flow of gases through the external gases channel.

[0371] In some configurations, the external gases channel extends along at least part of the main body portion.

[0372] In some configurations, the external gases channel extends from at or adjacent a base of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements, away from the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0373] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a frame portion, and wherein the interface body comprises the main body portion.

[0374] In some configurations, one of the nasal delivery elements is larger than the other of the nasal delivery elements, and wherein the external gases channel is adjacent a smaller one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0375] In some configurations, the external gases channel extends along at least part of the main body portion and along at least part of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0376] In some configurations, the external gases channel extends to a tip of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements that comprises a gases outlet.

[0377] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a plurality of the external gases channels adjacent the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0378] In some configurations, at least one of the external gases channels is adjacent each of the nasal delivery elements.

[0379] In some configurations, a plurality of the external gases channels is adjacent each of the nasal delivery elements.

[0380] In some configurations, the external gases channel has an expanding or bifurcated configuration in region distal from the at least one of the nasal delivery elements, to enable gases flow away from the frame.

[0381] In some configurations, the interface body comprises an external cutout in an exterior of the interface body and adjacent at least one of the nasal delivery elements and configured to enable a flow of gases through the external cutout.

[0382] In some configurations, the external cutout extends from or adjacently from at least one of the nasal delivery elements along part of a main body portion of the interface body to a lateral edge of the interface body.

[0383] In some configurations, the external cutout extends around or adjacently around a base of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements, and away from the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0384] In some configurations, the external cutout is a recess in the main body portion of the interface body.

[0385] In some configurations, walls of the recess are formed at a substantially transverse angle relative to the surface of the main body portion.

[0386] In some configurations, walls of the recess are formed at an angle between about 35 and 60 degrees relative to the surface of the main body portion.

[0387] In some configurations, the external cutout comprises parallel sides extending between the lateral edge to an arc extending around the base of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0388] In some configurations, the arc of the external cutout shares a central axis with the at least one nasal delivery element.

[0389] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a second external cutout extending from or adjacently from the other one of the nasal delivery elements along part of a main body portion of the interface body to the opposing lateral edge of the interface body.

[0390] In some configurations, the first and second external cutouts are symmetrical about a midline plane through the interface body, wherein the midline plane is parallel to a sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

[0391] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a frame portion and a cushion portion, the cushion portion comprising an opening for receiving at least a portion of a frame for supporting the nasal interface, wherein the frame portion and cushion portion are inter-engageable.

[0392] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises the inlet gases port, and wherein the cushion portion comprises the first delivery element and the second delivery element.

[0393] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a bias flow vent for enabling exhaled gases to be expelled out of the interface body, wherein the frame portion comprises the bias flow vent.

[0394] In some configurations, the frame portion extends between the inlet gases port and the bias flow vent and forming at least part of an outer surface of the interface body.

[0395] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises a groove arranged around at least a portion of its periphery, at least a portion of an edge of the opening of the cushion portion receivable in the groove.

[0396] In some configurations, a surface of the frame portion encompassed by its periphery is substantially planar.

[0397] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises enlarged lateral portions relative to a substantially narrowed central portion of the frame portion.

[0398] In some configurations, the frame member tapers toward the enlarged lateral portions from a substantially laterally central position of the frame portion.

[0399] In some configurations, the surface of the frame portion has a substantially hour-glass shaped outline.

[0400] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises narrowed lateral portions relative to a substantially enlarged laterally central portion of the frame portion.

[0401] In some configurations, the frame member tapers toward the narrowed lateral portions from a substantially laterally central position of the frame portion.

[0402] In some configurations, the frame member comprises a substantially straight upper edge and a substantially curved lower edge.

[0403] In some configurations, the surface of the frame portion has a substantially elongated circle segment shaped outline.

[0404] In some configurations, the frame member comprises substantially straight upper and lower edges.

[0405] In some configurations, the surface of the frame portion has a substantially stadium-shaped outline.

[0406] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises a first side arm and a second side arm connected at its respective lateral edges.

[0407] In some configurations, the frame portion, first side arm and second side arm are formed as a unitary member.

[0408] In some configurations, the interface body is symmetrical about a second midline plane of the interface body that is transverse to a first midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar to a sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

[0409] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises an external cutout in an exterior of the cushion portion and adjacent at least one of the nasal delivery elements and configured to enable a flow of gases through the external cutout.

[0410] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a pair of side arms that extend in opposed laterally outward directions, wherein the pair of side arms are configured to hinged ly articulate to follow the contours of the face.

[0411] In some configurations, the side arms are formed of a flexible material.

[0412] In some configurations, each side arm comprises at least one living hinge comprising an area or line of thinned material relative to the remaining material of the side arm, the thinned material being more flexible relative to the remaining material of the side arm and the side arm configured to hingedly articulate at the living hinge.

[0413] In some configurations, the living hinge comprises two intersecting lines of thinned material forming an X-shape on the side arm, the living hinge configured to hingedly articulate along the lines of the X-shape.

[0414] In some configurations, the living hinge comprises at least one line of thinned material extending substantially vertically across the side arm, the living hinge configured to hingedly articulate along the at least one line.

[0415] In some configurations, the living hinge further comprises a further line of thinned material extending substantially vertically across the side arm, the one line is separated from the further line and the living hinge configured to hingedly articulate along the one line and / or further line.

[0416] In some configurations, the living hinge comprises an area of thinned material, the area of thinner material formed of two opposing triangular shapes with their respective apices meeting at the vertical midpoint of the side arm, the living hinge configured to hingedly articulate along any line passing through the thinned material.

[0417] In some configurations, the living hinge is formed on the patient facing side of the side arms of when in use.

[0418] In some configurations, the living hinge is configured hingedly articulate along the hinge direction with a maximum angle of 90 degrees relative to the side arm.

[0419] In some configurations, the interface body is symmetrical about a second midline plane of the interface body that is transverse to a first midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar to a sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

[0420] In some configurations, the interface body comprises at least one cheek pad positioned on straps or arms connected to lateral portions of the interface body and configured to be positioned on a patient's cheek when in use.

[0421] In some configurations, side arms or headgear arms comprise cheek pads.

[0422] In some configurations, the cheek pads are formed of a flexible material to allow the cheek pads to conform to a patient's cheek.

[0423] In some configurations, the cheek pad has a bulbous or oval shape extending in a patient direction from the strap or arm.

[0424] In some configurations, the cheek pad is formed having a substantially tubular body with a lateral channel extending therethrough.

[0425] In some configurations, the cheek pad is formed as a hollow body.

[0426] In some configurations, the cheek pad comprises a pad opening configured to inter-engage with a hooking connection formed on the strap or arm for securing the cheek pad to the strap or arm.

[0427] In some configurations, the hooking connection comprises slot openings for securing at least one strap.

[0428] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a pair of side arms that extend in opposed laterally outward directions, wherein the pair of side arms comprise buckles at their distal ends for connecting to straps.

[0429] In some configurations, the nasal interface is configured to be supported on a patient's head via headgear, the headgear comprising a securing member positionable at a rear of a patient's head, the securing member configured to extend around a portion of a circumference of the patient's head and configured to be secured in the hair of a patient in the manner of a comb.

[0430] In some configurations, the securing member comprises a plurality of substantially vertically arranged struts, the channels between the struts configured to receive a patient's hair.

[0431] In some configurations, adjacent struts are connected by loops at opposing vertical ends of the struts forming a substantially S- or Z-shaped sinusoidal pattern.

[0432] In some configurations, the securing member comprises secondary loops arranged between the adjacent struts vertically separated from the loops.

[0433] In some configurations, the loops comprise webbing.

[0434] In some configurations, the struts have a uniform length.

[0435] In some configurations, the length of the struts reduces from a mid-point of the securing member to each end of the securing member.

[0436] In some configurations, the securing member is flexible to allow a circumferential expansion.

[0437] In some configurations, the securing member comprises buckles at each of its circumferential ends.

[0438] In accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a nasal interface is disclosed, the nasal interface comprising: an interface body comprising a gases flow channel, a first nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a first naris of the patient, a second nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a second naris of the patient, wherein at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is a non-sealing nasal delivery element, a gases inlet port in the interface body and in fluid communication with the gases flow channel, the gases inlet port for receiving incoming respiratory gases from a gases supply conduit and enabling the incoming respiratory gases to be delivered into the interface body, wherein the interface body comprises a pair of side arms that extend in opposed laterally outward directions.

[0439] In some configurations the pair of side arms are configured to be moveable to follow the contours of the face.

[0440] In some configurations, the side arms are formed of a flexible material.

[0441] In some configurations, the side arms comprise an attachment button configured to selectively connect to a corresponding button hole.

[0442] In some configurations, a headgear comprises the button hole for connection to the attachment button.

[0443] In some configurations, a headgear strap or headgear connecting portion part of the headgear comprises the button hole for connection to the attachment button.

[0444] In some configurations, the attachment button is radially pivotable about the axis of the button hole.

[0445] In some configurations, each side arm comprises a headgear connection feature to movably connect to either a ball portion or a socket portion of a ball and socket joint configured to moveably connect to respective connectors on first and second ends of a headgear.

[0446] In some configurations, the ball portion comprises at least one protrusion to limit the range of articulation between the ball portion and the socket portion.

[0447] In some configurations, at least one side arm comprises a buckle.

[0448] In some configurations, the buckle is formed as a figure of eight.

[0449] In some configurations, the at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is the non-sealing nasal delivery element and is configured to not form a seal with the respective naris of the patient in use.

[0450] In some configurations, the at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is exclusive of sealing with the respective naris of the patient.

[0451] In some configurations, a first one of the side arms comprises either a ball portion or a socket portion of the ball and socket joint configured to moveably connect to a corresponding ball or socket portion on the respective headgear connecting portion.

[0452] In some configurations, a second one of the side arms comprises either a ball portion or a socket portion of the ball and socket joint configured to moveably connect to a corresponding ball or socket portion on the respective headgear connecting portion.

[0453] In some configurations, the ball and socket joint is a pivot point that the headgear connecting portion pivots about in any direction with a maximum pivot angle of 90 degrees relative to the side arm.

[0454] In some configurations, the at least one protrusion limits the maximum pivot angle to 45 degrees relative to the side arm.

[0455] In some configurations, each headgear connection feature is moveably connectable to either of the connectors on the first and second ends of the headgear.

[0456] In some configurations, the gases inlet port comprises two or a plurality of gases inlet ports.

[0457] In some configurations, the gases inlet port points substantially toward the first nasal delivery element.

[0458] In some configurations, the gases inlet port is substantially directed toward the first nasal delivery element.

[0459] In some configurations, the gases inlet is arranged to direct a larger proportion of the incoming respiratory gases towards the first nasal delivery element than the second nasal delivery element.

[0460] In some configurations, the gases inlet port is proximal to the first nasal delivery element and distal from the second nasal delivery element to create or contribute to the asymmetric flow.

[0461] In some configurations, the nasal interface is configured to receive the incoming respiratory gases from the gases inlet port and to provide, from the incoming respiratory gases, a first flow stream of gases configured to be substantially provided to the first naris of the patient in use and a second flow stream of gases configured to be substantially provided to the second naris of the patient in use, and is configured to direct more of the incoming respiratory gases to the first flow stream of gases than to the second flow stream of gases to create or contribute to the asymmetric flow.

[0462] In some configurations, the nasal interface is configured to receive the incoming respiratory gases from the gases inlet port and to provide, from the incoming respiratory gases, a first flow stream of gases configured to be substantially provided to the first nasal delivery element and a second flow stream of gases configured to be substantially provided to the second nasal delivery element, and is configured to direct more of the incoming respiratory gases to the first flow stream of gases than to the second flow stream of gases to create or contribute to the asymmetric flow.

[0463] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element lie substantially in a plane of the interface body that is transverse to a first midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar with the sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

[0464] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element are symmetrical about the midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar with the sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

[0465] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element are each substantially straight.

[0466] In some configurations, one of the nasal delivery elements is larger than the other of the nasal delivery elements.

[0467] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element is larger than the second nasal delivery element.

[0468] In some configurations, the cross section of the internal flow area of the larger nasal delivery element is greater than that of the other nasal delivery element.

[0469] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprising a bias flow vent for enabling exhaled gases to be expelled out of the interface body.

[0470] In some configurations, the bias flow vent positioned downstream of the first nasal delivery element.

[0471] In some configurations, the bias flow vent comprises an aperture or an aperture and a diffuser.

[0472] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprising at least one baffle extending along the gases flow channel from a region corresponding generally to the first gases port toward a region corresponding generally to the bias flow vent.

[0473] In some configurations, the at least one baffle is arranged such that when respiratory gases are delivered into the interface body through the gases inlet port, they pass along the baffle to the first nasal delivery element and along the baffle to the secondnasal delivery element, and such that exhaled gases substantially pass along the baffle to the bias flow vent.

[0474] In some configurations, the interface comprises a plurality of the spaced apart baffles extending along the gases flow channel.

[0475] In some configurations, the at least one baffle extends across the interface body, a frame portion, or both an interface body and a frame portion of the nasal interface.

[0476] In some configurations, at least one of the nasal delivery elements has a tapering wall portion.

[0477] In some configurations, the tapering wall portion in a region proximal to the gases flow channel is thicker than the tapering wall portion in a region proximal to a gases outlet of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0478] In some configurations, a base of at least one of the nasal delivery elements has an angled portion.

[0479] In some configurations, the base has a frustoconical shape.

[0480] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a gases delivery connector coupled to, or defining, the gases inlet port.

[0481] In some configurations, the connector comprises a gases delivery portion to couple to, or defining, the gases inlet port of the interface body, and a gases receipt portion configured to receive incoming respiratory gases from the gases supply conduit and to deliver the incoming respiratory gases to the gases delivery portion.

[0482] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises an elbow coupled to, or defining, the gases inlet port.

[0483] In some configurations, the gases delivery elbow comprises a gases delivery portion extending in a first direction to couple to, or defining, the gases inlet port of the interface body, and a gases receipt portion extending in a second direction and configured to receive incoming respiratory gases from the gases supply conduit and to deliver the incoming respiratory gases to the gases delivery portion, and wherein the first direction is transverse to the second direction.

[0484] In some configurations, the second direction is a laterally outward direction.

[0485] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a single inlet comprising the gases inlet port.

[0486] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element comprises a first gases outlet, wherein the first gases outlet defines a first axis corresponding to a direction of gases flow through the first gases outlet, and wherein the gases inlet port defines a second axis corresponding to a direction of gases flow through the gases inlet, and whereinthe first axis and second axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 90 degrees relative to each other.

[0487] In some configurations, the first axis and second axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 60 degrees relative to each other.

[0488] In some configurations, the first axis and second axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 45 degrees relative to each other.

[0489] In some configurations, the first axis and second axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 30 degrees relative to each other.

[0490] In some configurations, the first axis and second axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 15 degrees relative to each other.

[0491] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element comprises a first gases outlet, wherein the first gases outlet defines a first axis corresponding to a direction of gases flow through the first gases outlet, and wherein the gases inlet port defines an inlet axis corresponding to a direction of gases flow through the gases inlet, and wherein the first axis and inlet axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 90 degrees relative to each other. The first axis and the inlet axis may be aligned with each other. Accordingly, an angle between the first axis and the inlet axis may be 0 degrees.

[0492] In some configurations, the first axis and inlet axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 60 degrees relative to each other.

[0493] In some configurations, the first axis and inlet axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 45 degrees relative to each other.

[0494] In some configurations, the first axis and inlet axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 30 degrees relative to each other.

[0495] In some configurations, the first axis and inlet axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 15 degrees relative to each other.

[0496] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a conduit retainer to couple the gases supply conduit to a headgear of the nasal interface.

[0497] In some configurations, the conduit retainer comprises an annular portion to moveably receive the gases supply conduit.

[0498] In some configurations, the conduit retainer is positioned laterally outward of the elbow and on a headgear strap adjacent to a coupling of the headgear strap with a side arm of the interface body.

[0499] In some configurations, the conduit retainer is positioned laterally outward of the elbow and on a side arm adjacent to a coupling of a headgear strap with the side arm of the interface body.

[0500] In some configurations, the conduit retainer is positioned laterally outward of the connector and on a headgear strap adjacent to a coupling of the headgear strap with a side arm of the interface body.

[0501] In some configurations, the conduit retainer is positioned laterally outward of the connector and on a side arm adjacent to a coupling of a headgear strap with the side arm of the interface body.

[0502] In some configurations, the annular portion of the conduit retainer is C- shaped.

[0503] In some configurations, the conduit retainer comprises a pair of inwardly facing arms forming a channel for a strap or arm to pass therethrough.

[0504] some configurations, the pair of inwardly facing arms maintain a space or gap in-between them.

[0505] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a cap configured to at least partly cover the bias flow vent in use.

[0506] In some configurations, the cap is configured to substantially cover the bias flow vent in use.

[0507] In some configurations, the at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is the non-sealing nasal delivery element and is configured to not form a seal with the respective naris of the patient in use.

[0508] In some configurations, the at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is exclusive of sealing with the respective naris of the patient.

[0509] In some configurations, the cap comprises at least one opening to enable gases flow from the bias flow vent through the cap.

[0510] In some configurations, the cap comprises an annular configuration comprising a peripheral frame surrounding the opening.

[0511] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a frame portion, and wherein the bias flow vent is located in the frame portion.

[0512] In some configurations, the cap is tethered to the frame portion.

[0513] In some configurations, the cap is removably attached to the frame.

[0514] In some configurations, the interface body comprises an external gases channel in an exterior of the interface body and adjacent at least one of the nasal delivery elements and configured to enable a flow of gases through the external gases channel.

[0515] In some configurations, the external gases channel extends along at least part of the main body portion.

[0516] In some configurations, the external gases channel extends from at or adjacent a base of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements, away from the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0517] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a frame portion, and wherein the interface body comprises the main body portion.

[0518] In some configurations, one of the nasal delivery elements is larger than the other of the nasal delivery elements, and wherein the external gases channel is adjacent a smaller one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0519] In some configurations, the external gases channel extends along at least part of the main body portion and along at least part of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0520] In some configurations, the external gases channel extends to a tip of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements that comprises a gases outlet.

[0521] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a plurality of the external gases channels adjacent the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0522] In some configurations, at least one of the external gases channels is adjacent each of the nasal delivery elements.

[0523] In some configurations, a plurality of the external gases channels is adjacent each of the nasal delivery elements.

[0524] In some configurations, the external gases channel has an expanding or bifurcated configuration in region distal from the at least one of the nasal delivery elements, to enable gases flow away from the frame.

[0525] In some configurations, the interface body comprises an external cutout in an exterior of the interface body and adjacent at least one of the nasal delivery elements and configured to enable a flow of gases through the external cutout.

[0526] In some configurations, the external cutout extends from or adjacently from at least one of the nasal delivery elements along part of a main body portion of the interface body to a lateral edge of the interface body.

[0527] In some configurations, the external cutout extends around or adjacently around a base of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements, and away from the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0528] In some configurations, the external cutout is a recess in the main body portion of the interface body.

[0529] In some configurations, walls of the recess are formed at a substantially transverse angle relative to the surface of the main body portion.

[0530] In some configurations, walls of the recess are formed at an angle between about 35 and 60 degrees relative to the surface of the main body portion.

[0531] In some configurations, the external cutout comprises parallel sides extending between the lateral edge to an arc extending around the base of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0532] In some configurations, the arc of the external cutout shares a central axis with the at least one nasal delivery element.

[0533] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a second external cutout extending from or adjacently from the other one of the nasal delivery elements along part of a main body portion of the interface body to the opposing lateral edge of the interface body.

[0534] In some configurations, the first and second external cutouts are symmetrical about a midline plane through the interface body, wherein the midline plane is parallel to a sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

[0535] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a frame portion and a cushion portion, the cushion portion comprising an opening for receiving at least a portion of a frame for supporting the nasal interface, wherein the frame portion and cushion portion are inter-engageable.

[0536] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises the inlet gases port, and wherein the cushion portion comprises the first delivery element and the second delivery element.

[0537] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a bias flow vent for enabling exhaled gases to be expelled out of the interface body, wherein the frame portion comprises the bias flow vent.

[0538] In some configurations, the frame portion extends between the inlet gases port and the bias flow vent and forming at least part of an outer surface of the interface body.

[0539] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises a groove arranged around at least a portion of its periphery, at least a portion of an edge of the opening of the cushion portion receivable in the groove.

[0540] In some configurations, a surface of the frame portion encompassed by its periphery is substantially planar.

[0541] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises enlarged lateral portions relative to a substantially narrowed central portion of the frame portion.

[0542] In some configurations, the frame member tapers toward the enlarged lateral portions from a substantially laterally central position of the frame portion.

[0543] In some configurations, the surface of the frame portion has a substantially hour-glass shaped outline.

[0544] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises narrowed lateral portions relative to a substantially enlarged laterally central portion of the frame portion.

[0545] In some configurations, the frame member tapers toward the narrowed lateral portions from a substantially laterally central position of the frame portion.

[0546] In some configurations, the frame member comprises a substantially straight upper edge and a substantially curved lower edge.

[0547] In some configurations, the surface of the frame portion has a substantially elongated circle segment shaped outline.

[0548] In some configurations, the frame member comprises substantially straight upper and lower edges.

[0549] In some configurations, the surface of the frame portion has a substantially stadium-shaped outline.

[0550] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises a first side arm and a second side arm connected at its respective lateral edges.

[0551] In some configurations, the frame portion, first side arm and second side arm are formed as a unitary member.

[0552] In some configurations, the interface body is symmetrical about a second midline plane of the interface body that is transverse to a first midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar to a sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

[0553] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises an external cutout in an exterior of the cushion portion and adjacent at least one of the nasal delivery elements and configured to enable a flow of gases through the external cutout.

[0554] In some configurations, the interface body comprises at least one cheek pad positioned on straps or arms connected to lateral portions of the interface body and configured to be positioned on a patient's cheek when in use.

[0555] In some configurations, side arms or headgear arms comprise cheek pads.

[0556] In some configurations, the cheek pads are formed of a flexible material to allow the cheek pads to conform to a patient's cheek.

[0557] In some configurations, the cheek pad has a bulbous or oval shape extending in a patient direction from the strap or arm.

[0558] In some configurations, the cheek pad is formed having a substantially tubular body with a lateral channel extending therethrough.

[0559] In some configurations, the cheek pad is formed as a hollow body.

[0560] In some configurations, the cheek pad comprises a pad opening configured to inter-engage with a hooking connection formed on the strap or arm for securing the cheek pad to the strap or arm.

[0561] In some configurations, the hooking connection comprises slot openings for securing at least one strap.

[0562] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a pair of side arms that extend in opposed laterally outward directions, wherein the pair of side arms comprise buckles at their distal ends for connecting to straps.

[0563] In some configurations, the nasal interface is configured to be supported on a patient's head via headgear, the headgear comprising a securing member positionable at a rear of a patient's head, the securing member configured to extend around a portion of a circumference of the patient's head and configured to be secured in the hair of a patient in the manner of a comb.

[0564] In some configurations, the securing member comprises a plurality of substantially vertically arranged struts, the channels between the struts configured to receive a patient's hair.

[0565] In some configurations, adjacent struts are connected by loops at opposing vertical ends of the struts forming a substantially S- or Z-shaped sinusoidal pattern.

[0566] In some configurations, the securing member comprises secondary loops arranged between the adjacent struts vertically separated from the loops.

[0567] In some configurations, the loops comprise webbing.

[0568] In some configurations, the struts have a uniform length.

[0569] In some configurations, the length of the struts reduces from a mid-point of the securing member to each end of the securing member.

[0570] In some configurations, the securing member is flexible to allow a circumferential expansion.

[0571] In some configurations, the securing member comprises buckles at each of its circumferential ends.

[0572] In accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a patient interface is disclosed, the patient interface comprising: a nasal interface (as described herein) and a pair of the headgear connecting portions each moveably connected to one of the side arms, a first one of the side arms comprising either the ball or socket portion and a first headgear connecting portion comprising the corresponding socket or ball portion, and a second one of the side arms comprising either the ball or socket portion and a second headgear connecting portion comprising the corresponding socket or ball portion.

[0573] In some configurations, the patient interface comprises a headgear comprising the headgear connecting portions.

[0574] In some configurations, the patient interface comprises flexible cheek contacting portions.

[0575] In some configurations, the headgear is symmetric about a midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar with the sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

[0576] In accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a method of changing the configuration or direction of a gases inlet of a nasal interface (as described herein) is disclosed, the method comprising rotating the ball portion within the socket portion of the ball and socket joint, such that nasal interface goes from a first configuration where the gases inlet is on a left side of the nasal interface to a second configuration where gases inlet is on a right side of the nasal interface, wherein rotating the ball portion in the socket portion causes the change from first configuration to second configuration.

[0577] In accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a nasal interface is disclosed, the nasal interface comprising: an interface body comprising a gases flow channel, a first nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a first naris of the patient, a second nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a second naris of the patient, a gases inlet port in the interface body and in fluid communication with the gases flow channel, the gases inlet port for receiving incoming respiratory gases from a gasessupply conduit and enabling the incoming respiratory gases to be delivered into the interface body, a bias flow vent for enabling exhaled gases to be expelled out of the interface body, the bias flow vent positioned downstream of the first nasal delivery element, and a cap configured to at least partly cover the bias flow vent in use.

[0578] In some configurations, at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is a non-sealing nasal delivery element.

[0579] In some configurations, the cap is configured to substantially cover the bias flow vent in use.

[0580] In some configurations, the at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is the non-sealing nasal delivery element and is configured to not form a seal with the respective naris of the patient in use.

[0581] In some configurations, the at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is exclusive of sealing with the respective naris of the patient.

[0582] In some configurations, the cap comprises at least one opening to enable gases flow from the bias flow vent through the cap.

[0583] In some configurations, the cap comprises an annular configuration comprising a peripheral frame surrounding the opening.

[0584] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a frame portion, and wherein the bias flow vent is located in the frame portion.

[0585] In some configurations, the cap is tethered to the frame portion.

[0586] In some configurations, the cap is removably attached to the frame.

[0587] In some configurations, the nasal interface is configured to create an asymmetric flow of gases at a patient's nasal airways.

[0588] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a pair of side arms that extend in opposed laterally outward directions.

[0589] In some configurations the pair of side arms are configured to be moveable to follow the contours of the face.

[0590] In some configurations, the side arms are formed of a flexible material.

[0591] In some configurations, the side arms comprise an attachment button configured to selectively connect to a corresponding button hole.

[0592] In some configurations, a headgear comprises the button hole for connection to the attachment button.

[0593] In some configurations, a headgear strap or headgear connecting portion part of the headgear comprises the button hole for connection to the attachment button.

[0594] In some configurations, the attachment button is radially pivotable about the axis of the button hole.

[0595] In some configurations, each side arm comprises a headgear connection feature to movably connect to either a ball portion or a socket portion of a ball and socket joint configured to moveably connect to respective connectors on first and second ends of a headgear.

[0596] In some configurations, a first one of the side arms comprises either a ball portion or a socket portion of the ball and socket joint configured to moveably connect to a corresponding ball or socket portion on the respective headgear connecting portion.

[0597] In some configurations, a second one of the side arms comprises either a ball portion or a socket portion of the ball and socket joint configured to moveably connect to a corresponding ball or socket portion on the respective headgear connecting portion.

[0598] In some configurations, the ball and socket joint is a pivot point that the headgear connecting portion pivots about in any direction with a maximum pivot angle of 90 degrees relative to the side arm.

[0599] In some configurations, the ball portion comprises at least one protrusion to limit the range of articulation between the ball portion and the socket portion.

[0600] In some configurations, the at least one protrusion limits the maximum pivot angle to 45 degrees relative to the side arm.

[0601] In some configurations, at least one side arm comprises a buckle.

[0602] In some configurations, the buckle is formed as a figure of eight.

[0603] In some configurations, each headgear connection feature is moveably connectable to either of the connectors on the first and second ends of the headgear.

[0604] In some configurations, the gases inlet port comprises two or a plurality of gases inlet ports.

[0605] In some configurations, the gases inlet port points substantially toward the first nasal delivery element.

[0606] In some configurations, the gases inlet port is substantially directed toward the first nasal delivery element.

[0607] In some configurations, the gases inlet is arranged to direct a larger proportion of the incoming respiratory gases towards the first nasal delivery element than the second nasal delivery element.

[0608] In some configurations, the gases inlet port is proximal to the first nasal delivery element and distal from the second nasal delivery element to create or contribute to the asymmetric flow.

[0609] In some configurations, the nasal interface is configured to receive the incoming respiratory gases from the gases inlet port and to provide, from the incoming respiratory gases, a first flow stream of gases configured to be substantially provided to the first naris of the patient in use and a second flow stream of gases configured to be substantially provided to the second naris of the patient in use, and is configured to direct more of the incoming respiratory gases to the first flow stream of gases than to the second flow stream of gases to create or contribute to the asymmetric flow.

[0610] In some configurations, the nasal interface is configured to receive the incoming respiratory gases from the gases inlet port and to provide, from the incoming respiratory gases, a first flow stream of gases configured to be substantially provided to the first nasal delivery element and a second flow stream of gases configured to be substantially provided to the second nasal delivery element, and is configured to direct more of the incoming respiratory gases to the first flow stream of gases than to the second flow stream of gases to create or contribute to the asymmetric flow.

[0611] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element lie substantially in a plane of the interface body that is transverse to a first midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar with the sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

[0612] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element are symmetrical about the midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar with the sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

[0613] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element are each substantially straight.

[0614] In some configurations, one of the nasal delivery elements is larger than the other of the nasal delivery elements.

[0615] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element is larger than the second nasal delivery element.

[0616] In some configurations, the cross section of the internal flow area of the larger nasal delivery element is greater than that of the other nasal delivery element.

[0617] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprising a bias flow vent for enabling exhaled gases to be expelled out of the interface body.

[0618] In some configurations, the bias flow vent positioned downstream of the first nasal delivery element.

[0619] In some configurations, the bias flow vent comprises an aperture or an aperture and a diffuser.

[0620] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprising at least one baffle extending along the gases flow channel from a region corresponding generally to the first gases port toward a region corresponding generally to the bias flow vent.

[0621] In some configurations, the at least one baffle is arranged such that when respiratory gases are delivered into the interface body through the gases inlet port, they pass along the baffle to the first nasal delivery element and along the baffle to the second nasal delivery element, and such that exhaled gases substantially pass along the baffle to the bias flow vent.

[0622] In some configurations, the interface comprises a plurality of the spaced apart baffles extending along the gases flow channel.

[0623] In some configurations, the at least one baffle extends across the interface body, a frame portion, or both an interface body and a frame portion of the nasal interface.

[0624] In some configurations, at least one of the nasal delivery elements has a tapering wall portion.

[0625] In some configurations, the tapering wall portion in a region proximal to the gases flow channel is thicker than the tapering wall portion in a region proximal to a gases outlet of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0626] In some configurations, a base of at least one of the nasal delivery elements has an angled portion.

[0627] In some configurations, the base has a frustoconical shape.

[0628] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a gases delivery connector coupled to, or defining, the gases inlet port.

[0629] In some configurations, the connector comprises a gases delivery portion to couple to, or defining, the gases inlet port of the interface body, and a gases receipt portion configured to receive incoming respiratory gases from the gases supply conduit and to deliver the incoming respiratory gases to the gases delivery portion.

[0630] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises an elbow coupled to, or defining, the gases inlet port.

[0631] In some configurations, the gases delivery elbow comprises a gases delivery portion extending in a first direction to couple to, or defining, the gases inlet port of the interface body, and a gases receipt portion extending in a second direction and configured to receive incoming respiratory gases from the gases supply conduit and to deliver theincoming respiratory gases to the gases delivery portion, and wherein the first direction is transverse to the second direction.

[0632] In some configurations, the second direction is a laterally outward direction.

[0633] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a single inlet comprising the gases inlet port.

[0634] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element comprises a first gases outlet, wherein the first gases outlet defines a first axis corresponding to a direction of gases flow through the first gases outlet, and wherein the gases inlet port defines a second axis corresponding to a direction of gases flow through the gases inlet, and wherein the first axis and second axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 90 degrees relative to each other.

[0635] In some configurations, the first axis and second axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 60 degrees relative to each other.

[0636] In some configurations, the first axis and second axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 45 degrees relative to each other.

[0637] In some configurations, the first axis and second axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 30 degrees relative to each other.

[0638] In some configurations, the first axis and second axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 15 degrees relative to each other.

[0639] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element comprises a first gases outlet, wherein the first gases outlet defines a first axis corresponding to a direction of gases flow through the first gases outlet, and wherein the gases inlet port defines an inlet axis corresponding to a direction of gases flow through the gases inlet, and wherein the first axis and inlet axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 90 degrees relative to each other. The first axis and the inlet axis may be aligned with each other. Accordingly, an angle between the first axis and the inlet axis may be 0 degrees.

[0640] In some configurations, the first axis and inlet axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 60 degrees relative to each other.

[0641] In some configurations, the first axis and inlet axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 45 degrees relative to each other.

[0642] In some configurations, the first axis and inlet axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 30 degrees relative to each other.

[0643] In some configurations, the first axis and inlet axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 15 degrees relative to each other.

[0644] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a conduit retainer to couple the gases supply conduit to a headgear of the nasal interface.

[0645] In some configurations, the conduit retainer comprises an annular portion to moveably receive the gases supply conduit.

[0646] In some configurations, the conduit retainer is positioned laterally outward of the elbow and on a headgear strap adjacent to a coupling of the headgear strap with a side arm of the interface body.

[0647] In some configurations, the conduit retainer is positioned laterally outward of the elbow and on a side arm adjacent to a coupling of a headgear strap with the side arm of the interface body.

[0648] In some configurations, the conduit retainer is positioned laterally outward of the connector and on a headgear strap adjacent to a coupling of the headgear strap with a side arm of the interface body.

[0649] In some configurations, the conduit retainer is positioned laterally outward of the connector and on a side arm adjacent to a coupling of a headgear strap with the side arm of the interface body.

[0650] In some configurations, the annular portion of the conduit retainer is C- shaped.

[0651] In some configurations, the conduit retainer comprises a pair of inwardly facing arms forming a channel for a strap or arm to pass therethrough.

[0652] some configurations, the pair of inwardly facing arms maintain a space or gap in-between them.

[0653] In some configurations, the interface body comprises an external cutout in an exterior of the interface body and adjacent at least one of the nasal delivery elements and configured to enable a flow of gases through the external cutout.

[0654] In some configurations, the external cutout extends from or adjacently from at least one of the nasal delivery elements along part of a main body portion of the interface body to a lateral edge of the interface body.

[0655] In some configurations, the external cutout extends around or adjacently around a base of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements, and away from the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0656] In some configurations, the external cutout is a recess in the main body portion of the interface body.

[0657] In some configurations, walls of the recess are formed at a substantially transverse angle relative to the surface of the main body portion.

[0658] In some configurations, walls of the recess are formed at an angle between about 35 and 60 degrees relative to the surface of the main body portion.

[0659] In some configurations, the external cutout comprises parallel sides extending between the lateral edge to an arc extending around the base of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0660] In some configurations, the arc of the external cutout shares a central axis with the at least one nasal delivery element.

[0661] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a second external cutout extending from or adjacently from the other one of the nasal delivery elements along part of a main body portion of the interface body to the opposing lateral edge of the interface body.

[0662] In some configurations, the first and second external cutouts are symmetrical about a midline plane through the interface body, wherein the midline plane is parallel to a sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

[0663] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a frame portion and a cushion portion, the cushion portion comprising an opening for receiving at least a portion of a frame for supporting the nasal interface, wherein the frame portion and cushion portion are inter-engageable.

[0664] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises the inlet gases port, and wherein the cushion portion comprises the first delivery element and the second delivery element.

[0665] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a bias flow vent for enabling exhaled gases to be expelled out of the interface body, wherein the frame portion comprises the bias flow vent.

[0666] In some configurations, the frame portion extends between the inlet gases port and the bias flow vent and forming at least part of an outer surface of the interface body.

[0667] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises a groove arranged around at least a portion of its periphery, at least a portion of an edge of the opening of the cushion portion receivable in the groove.

[0668] In some configurations, a surface of the frame portion encompassed by its periphery is substantially planar.

[0669] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises enlarged lateral portions relative to a substantially narrowed central portion of the frame portion.

[0670] In some configurations, the frame member tapers toward the enlarged lateral portions from a substantially laterally central position of the frame portion.

[0671] In some configurations, the surface of the frame portion has a substantially hour-glass shaped outline.

[0672] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises narrowed lateral portions relative to a substantially enlarged laterally central portion of the frame portion.

[0673] In some configurations, the frame member tapers toward the narrowed lateral portions from a substantially laterally central position of the frame portion.

[0674] In some configurations, the frame member comprises a substantially straight upper edge and a substantially curved lower edge.

[0675] In some configurations, the surface of the frame portion has a substantially elongated circle segment shaped outline.

[0676] In some configurations, the frame member comprises substantially straight upper and lower edges.

[0677] In some configurations, the surface of the frame portion has a substantially stadium-shaped outline.

[0678] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises a first side arm and a second side arm connected at its respective lateral edges.

[0679] In some configurations, the frame portion, first side arm and second side arm are formed as a unitary member.

[0680] In some configurations, the interface body is symmetrical about a second midline plane of the interface body that is transverse to a first midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar to a sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

[0681] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises an external cutout in an exterior of the cushion portion and adjacent at least one of the nasal delivery elements and configured to enable a flow of gases through the external cutout.

[0682] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a pair of side arms that extend in opposed laterally outward directions, wherein the pair of side arms are configured to hinged ly articulate to follow the contours of the face.

[0683] In some configurations, the side arms are formed of a flexible material.

[0684] In some configurations, each side arm comprises at least one living hinge comprising an area or line of thinned material relative to the remaining material of the side arm, the thinned material being more flexible relative to the remaining material of the side arm and the side arm configured to hingedly articulate at the living hinge.

[0685] In some configurations, the living hinge comprises two intersecting lines of thinned material forming an X-shape on the side arm, the living hinge configured to hinged ly articulate along the lines of the X-shape.

[0686] In some configurations, the living hinge comprises at least one line of thinned material extending substantially vertically across the side arm, the living hinge configured to hingedly articulate along the at least one line.

[0687] In some configurations, the living hinge further comprises a further line of thinned material extending substantially vertically across the side arm, the one line is separated from the further line and the living hinge configured to hingedly articulate along the one line and / or further line.

[0688] In some configurations, the living hinge comprises an area of thinned material, the area of thinner material formed of two opposing triangular shapes with their respective apices meeting at the vertical midpoint of the side arm, the living hinge configured to hingedly articulate along any line passing through the thinned material.

[0689] In some configurations, the living hinge is formed on the patient facing side of the side arms of when in use.

[0690] In some configurations, the living hinge is configured hingedly articulate along the hinge direction with a maximum angle of 90 degrees relative to the side arm.

[0691] In some configurations, the interface body is symmetrical about a second midline plane of the interface body that is transverse to a first midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar to a sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

[0692] In some configurations, the interface body comprises at least one cheek pad positioned on straps or arms connected to lateral portions of the interface body and configured to be positioned on a patient's cheek when in use.

[0693] In some configurations, side arms or headgear arms comprise cheek pads.

[0694] In some configurations, the cheek pads are formed of a flexible material to allow the cheek pads to conform to a patient's cheek.

[0695] In some configurations, the cheek pad has a bulbous or oval shape extending in a patient direction from the strap or arm.

[0696] In some configurations, the cheek pad is formed having a substantially tubular body with a lateral channel extending therethrough.

[0697] In some configurations, the cheek pad is formed as a hollow body.

[0698] In some configurations, the cheek pad comprises a pad opening configured to inter-engage with a hooking connection formed on the strap or arm for securing the cheek pad to the strap or arm.

[0699] In some configurations, the hooking connection comprises slot openings for securing at least one strap.

[0700] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a pair of side arms that extend in opposed laterally outward directions, wherein the pair of side arms comprise buckles at their distal ends for connecting to straps.

[0701] In some configurations, the nasal interface is configured to be supported on a patient's head via headgear, the headgear comprising a securing member positionable at a rear of a patient's head, the securing member configured to extend around a portion of a circumference of the patient's head and configured to be secured in the hair of a patient in the manner of a comb.

[0702] In some configurations, the securing member comprises a plurality of substantially vertically arranged struts, the channels between the struts configured to receive a patient's hair.

[0703] In some configurations, adjacent struts are connected by loops at opposing vertical ends of the struts forming a substantially S- or Z-shaped sinusoidal pattern.

[0704] In some configurations, the securing member comprises secondary loops arranged between the adjacent struts vertically separated from the loops.

[0705] In some configurations, the loops comprise webbing.

[0706] In some configurations, the struts have a uniform length.

[0707] In some configurations, the length of the struts reduces from a mid-point of the securing member to each end of the securing member.

[0708] In some configurations, the securing member is flexible to allow a circumferential expansion.

[0709] In some configurations, the securing member comprises buckles at each of its circumferential ends.

[0710] In accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a nasal interface is disclosed, the nasal interface comprising: an interface body comprising a gases flow channel in a main body portion of the interface body, a first nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a first naris of the patient, a second nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a second naris of the patient, wherein at least one of the first nasaldelivery element and the second nasal delivery element is a non-sealing nasal delivery element, and a gases inlet port in the interface body and in fluid communication with the gases flow channel, the gases inlet port for receiving incoming respiratory gases from a gases supply conduit and enabling the incoming respiratory gases to be delivered into the interface body, wherein the interface body comprises an external gases channel in an exterior of the interface body and adjacent at least one of the nasal delivery elements and configured to enable a flow of gases through the external gases channel.

[0711] In some configurations, the external gases channel extends along at least part of the main body portion.

[0712] In some configurations, the external gases channel extends from at or adjacent a base of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements, away from the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0713] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a frame portion, and wherein the interface body comprises the main body portion.

[0714] In some configurations, one of the nasal delivery elements is larger than the other of the nasal delivery elements, and wherein the external gases channel is adjacent a smaller one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0715] In some configurations, the external gases channel extends along at least part of the main body portion and along at least part of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0716] In some configurations, the external gases channel extends to a tip of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements that comprises a gases outlet.

[0717] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a plurality of the external gases channels adjacent the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0718] In some configurations, at least one of the external gases channels is adjacent each of the nasal delivery elements.

[0719] In some configurations, a plurality of the external gases channels is adjacent each of the nasal delivery elements.

[0720] In some configurations, the external gases channel has an expanding or bifurcated configuration in region distal from the at least one of the nasal delivery elements, to enable gases flow away from the frame.

[0721] In some configurations, the at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is the non-sealing nasal delivery element and is configured to not form a seal with the respective naris of the patient in use.

[0722] In some configurations, the at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is exclusive of sealing with the respective naris of the patient.

[0723] In some configurations, the gases inlet port comprises two or a plurality of gases inlet ports.

[0724] In some configurations, the bias flow vent is downstream of the second nasal delivery element.

[0725] In some configurations, the bias flow vent is more proximal the second nasal delivery element.

[0726] In some configurations, the bias flow vent is between the first and second nasal delivery elements.

[0727] In some configurations, the at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element wherein the gases inlet port points substantially toward the first nasal delivery element.

[0728] In some configurations, the gases inlet port is substantially directed toward the first nasal delivery element.

[0729] In some configurations, the gases inlet is arranged to direct a larger proportion of the incoming respiratory gases towards the first nasal delivery element than the second nasal delivery element.

[0730] In some configurations, the nasal interface is configured to create an asymmetric flow of gases and net pressure.

[0731] In some configurations, the gases inlet port is proximal to the first nasal delivery element and distal from the second nasal delivery element to create or contribute to the asymmetric flow.

[0732] In some configurations, the nasal interface is configured to receive the incoming respiratory gases from the gases inlet port and to provide, from the incoming respiratory gases, a first flow stream of gases configured to be substantially provided to the first naris of the patient in use and a second flow stream of gases configured to be substantially provided to the second naris of the patient in use, and is configured to direct more of the incoming respiratory gases to the first flow stream of gases than to the second flow stream of gases to create or contribute to the asymmetric flow.

[0733] In some configurations, the nasal interface is configured to receive the incoming respiratory gases from the gases inlet port and to provide, from the incoming respiratory gases, a first flow stream of gases configured to be substantially provided to the first nasal delivery element and a second flow stream of gases configured to besubstantially provided to the second nasal delivery element, and is configured to direct more of the incoming respiratory gases to the first flow stream of gases than to the second flow stream of gases to create or contribute to the asymmetric flow.

[0734] In some configurations, wherein the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element lie substantially in a plane of the interface body that is transverse to a first midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar with the sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

[0735] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element are symmetrical about the midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar with the sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

[0736] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element are each substantially straight.

[0737] In some configurations, one of the nasal delivery elements is larger than the other of the nasal delivery elements.

[0738] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element is larger than the second nasal delivery element.

[0739] In some configurations, the cross section of the internal flow area of the larger nasal delivery element is greater than that of the other nasal delivery element.

[0740] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a pair of side arms that extend in opposed laterally outward directions.

[0741] In some configurations the pair of side arms are configured to be moveable to follow the contours of the face.

[0742] In some configurations, the side arms are formed of a flexible material.

[0743] In some configurations, the side arms comprise an attachment button configured to selectively connect to a corresponding button hole.

[0744] In some configurations, a headgear comprises the button hole for connection to the attachment button.

[0745] In some configurations, a headgear strap or headgear connecting portion part of the headgear comprises the button hole for connection to the attachment button.

[0746] In some configurations, the attachment button is radially pivotable about the axis of the button hole.

[0747] In some configurations, each side arm comprises either a ball portion or a socket portion of a ball and socket joint configured to moveably connect to a correspondingball or socket portion on a headgear connecting portion for connecting to a portion of a headgear.

[0748] In some configurations, the ball portion comprises at least one protrusion to limit the range of articulation between the ball portion and the socket portion.

[0749] In some configurations, at least one side arm comprises a buckle.

[0750] In some configurations, the buckle is formed as a figure of eight.

[0751] In some configurations, the bias flow vent comprises an aperture or an aperture and a diffuser.

[0752] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprising at least one baffle extending along the gases flow channel from a region corresponding generally to the first gases port toward a region corresponding generally to the bias flow vent.

[0753] In some configurations, the at least one baffle is arranged such that when respiratory gases are delivered into the interface body through the gases inlet port, they pass along the baffle to the first nasal delivery element and along the baffle to the second nasal delivery element, and such that exhaled gases substantially pass along the baffle to the bias flow vent.

[0754] In some configurations, there are a plurality of the spaced apart baffles extending along the gases flow channel.

[0755] In some configurations, the at least one baffle extend across the interface body, a frame portion, or both an interface body and a frame portion of the nasal interface.

[0756] In some configurations, at least one of the nasal delivery elements has a tapering wall portion.

[0757] In some configurations, the tapering wall portion in a region proximal to the gases flow channel is thicker than the tapering wall portion in a region proximal to a gases outlet of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0758] In some configurations, a base of at least one of the nasal delivery elements has an angled portion.

[0759] In some configurations, the base has a frustoconical shape.

[0760] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a connector coupled to, or defining, the gases inlet port.

[0761] In some configurations, the connector comprises a gases delivery portion to couple to, or defining, the gases inlet port of the interface body, and a gases receipt portion configured to receive incoming respiratory gases from the gases supply conduit and to deliver the incoming respiratory gases to the gases delivery portion.

[0762] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a gases delivery elbow coupled to, or defining, the gases inlet port.

[0763] In some configurations, the gases delivery elbow comprises a gases delivery portion extending in a first direction to couple to, or defining, the gases inlet port of the interface body, and a gases receipt portion extending in a second direction and configured to receive incoming respiratory gases from the gases supply conduit and to deliver the incoming respiratory gases to the gases delivery portion, and wherein the first direction is transverse to the second direction.

[0764] In some configurations, the second direction is a laterally outward direction.

[0765] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element comprises a first gases outlet, wherein the first gases outlet defines a first axis corresponding to a direction of gases flow through the first gases outlet, and wherein the gases inlet port defines a second axis corresponding to a direction of gases flow through the gases inlet, and wherein the first axis and second axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 90 degrees relative to each other.

[0766] In some configurations, the first axis and second axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 60 degrees relative to each other.

[0767] In some configurations, the first axis and second axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 45 degrees relative to each other.

[0768] In some configurations, the first axis and second axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 30 degrees relative to each other.

[0769] In some configurations, the first axis and second axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 15 degrees relative to each other.

[0770] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element comprises a first gases outlet, wherein the first gases outlet defines a first axis corresponding to a direction of gases flow through the first gases outlet, and wherein the gases inlet port defines an inlet axis corresponding to a direction of gases flow through the gases inlet, and wherein the first axis and inlet axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 90 degrees relative to each other. The first axis and the inlet axis may be aligned with each other. Accordingly, an angle between the first axis and the inlet axis may be 0 degrees.

[0771] In some configurations, the first axis and inlet axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 60 degrees relative to each other.

[0772] In some configurations, the first axis and inlet axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 45 degrees relative to each other.

[0773] In some configurations, the first axis and inlet axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 30 degrees relative to each other.

[0774] In some configurations, the first axis and inlet axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 15 degrees relative to each other.

[0775] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a conduit retainer to couple the gases supply conduit to a headgear of the nasal interface.

[0776] In some configurations, the conduit retainer comprises an annular portion to moveably receive the gases supply conduit.

[0777] In some configurations, the conduit retainer is positioned laterally outward of the elbow and on a headgear strap adjacent to a coupling of the headgear strap with a side arm of the interface body.

[0778] In some configurations, the conduit retainer is positioned laterally outward of the elbow and on a side arm adjacent to a coupling of a headgear strap with the side arm of the interface body.

[0779] In some configurations, the conduit retainer is positioned laterally outward of the connector and on a headgear strap adjacent to a coupling of the headgear strap with a side arm of the interface body.

[0780] In some configurations, the conduit retainer is positioned laterally outward of the connector and on a side arm adjacent to a coupling of a headgear strap with the side arm of the interface body.

[0781] In some configurations, the annular portion of the conduit retainer is C- shaped.

[0782] In some configurations, the conduit retainer comprises a pair of inwardly facing arms forming a channel for a strap or arm to pass therethrough.

[0783] some configurations, the pair of inwardly facing arms maintain a space or gap in-between them.

[0784] In some configurations, the interface body comprises an external cutout in an exterior of the interface body and adjacent at least one of the nasal delivery elements and configured to enable a flow of gases through the external cutout.

[0785] In some configurations, the external cutout extends from or adjacently from at least one of the nasal delivery elements along part of a main body portion of the interface body to a lateral edge of the interface body.

[0786] In some configurations, the external cutout extends around or adjacently around a base of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements, and away from the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0787] In some configurations, the external cutout is a recess in the main body portion of the interface body.

[0788] In some configurations, walls of the recess are formed at a substantially transverse angle relative to the surface of the main body portion.

[0789] In some configurations, walls of the recess are formed at an angle between about 35 and 60 degrees relative to the surface of the main body portion.

[0790] In some configurations, the external cutout comprises parallel sides extending between the lateral edge to an arc extending around the base of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0791] In some configurations, the arc of the external cutout shares a central axis with the at least one nasal delivery element.

[0792] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a second external cutout extending from or adjacently from the other one of the nasal delivery elements along part of a main body portion of the interface body to the opposing lateral edge of the interface body.

[0793] In some configurations, the first and second external cutouts are symmetrical about a midline plane through the interface body, wherein the midline plane is parallel to a sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

[0794] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a frame portion and a cushion portion, the cushion portion comprising an opening for receiving at least a portion of a frame for supporting the nasal interface, wherein the frame portion and cushion portion are inter-engageable.

[0795] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises the inlet gases port, and wherein the cushion portion comprises the first delivery element and the second delivery element.

[0796] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a bias flow vent for enabling exhaled gases to be expelled out of the interface body, wherein the frame portion comprises the bias flow vent.

[0797] In some configurations, the frame portion extends between the inlet gases port and the bias flow vent and forming at least part of an outer surface of the interface body.

[0798] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises a groove arranged around at least a portion of its periphery, at least a portion of an edge of the opening of the cushion portion receivable in the groove.

[0799] In some configurations, a surface of the frame portion encompassed by its periphery is substantially planar.

[0800] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises enlarged lateral portions relative to a substantially narrowed central portion of the frame portion.

[0801] In some configurations, the frame member tapers toward the enlarged lateral portions from a substantially laterally central position of the frame portion.

[0802] In some configurations, the surface of the frame portion has a substantially hour-glass shaped outline.

[0803] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises narrowed lateral portions relative to a substantially enlarged laterally central portion of the frame portion.

[0804] In some configurations, the frame member tapers toward the narrowed lateral portions from a substantially laterally central position of the frame portion.

[0805] In some configurations, the frame member comprises a substantially straight upper edge and a substantially curved lower edge.

[0806] In some configurations, the surface of the frame portion has a substantially elongated circle segment shaped outline.

[0807] In some configurations, the frame member comprises substantially straight upper and lower edges.

[0808] In some configurations, the surface of the frame portion has a substantially stadium-shaped outline.

[0809] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises a first side arm and a second side arm connected at its respective lateral edges.

[0810] In some configurations, the frame portion, first side arm and second side arm are formed as a unitary member.

[0811] In some configurations, the interface body is symmetrical about a second midline plane of the interface body that is transverse to a first midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar to a sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

[0812] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises an external cutout in an exterior of the cushion portion and adjacent at least one of the nasal delivery elements and configured to enable a flow of gases through the external cutout.

[0813] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a pair of side arms that extend in opposed laterally outward directions, wherein the pair of side arms are configured to hinged ly articulate to follow the contours of the face.

[0814] In some configurations, the side arms are formed of a flexible material.

[0815] In some configurations, each side arm comprises at least one living hinge comprising an area or line of thinned material relative to the remaining material of the side arm, the thinned material being more flexible relative to the remaining material of the side arm and the side arm configured to hingedly articulate at the living hinge.

[0816] In some configurations, the living hinge comprises two intersecting lines of thinned material forming an X-shape on the side arm, the living hinge configured to hingedly articulate along the lines of the X-shape.

[0817] In some configurations, the living hinge comprises at least one line of thinned material extending substantially vertically across the side arm, the living hinge configured to hingedly articulate along the at least one line.

[0818] In some configurations, the living hinge further comprises a further line of thinned material extending substantially vertically across the side arm, the one line is separated from the further line and the living hinge configured to hingedly articulate along the one line and / or further line.

[0819] In some configurations, the living hinge comprises an area of thinned material, the area of thinner material formed of two opposing triangular shapes with their respective apices meeting at the vertical midpoint of the side arm, the living hinge configured to hingedly articulate along any line passing through the thinned material.

[0820] In some configurations, the living hinge is formed on the patient facing side of the side arms of when in use.

[0821] In some configurations, the living hinge is configured hingedly articulate along the hinge direction with a maximum angle of 90 degrees relative to the side arm.

[0822] In some configurations, the interface body is symmetrical about a second midline plane of the interface body that is transverse to a first midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar to a sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

[0823] In some configurations, the interface body comprises at least one cheek pad positioned on straps or arms connected to lateral portions of the interface body and configured to be positioned on a patient's cheek when in use.

[0824] In some configurations, side arms or headgear arms comprise cheek pads.

[0825] In some configurations, the cheek pads are formed of a flexible material to allow the cheek pads to conform to a patient's cheek.

[0826] In some configurations, the cheek pad has a bulbous or oval shape extending in a patient direction from the strap or arm.

[0827] In some configurations, the cheek pad is formed having a substantially tubular body with a lateral channel extending therethrough.

[0828] In some configurations, the cheek pad is formed as a hollow body.

[0829] In some configurations, the cheek pad comprises a pad opening configured to inter-engage with a hooking connection formed on the strap or arm for securing the cheek pad to the strap or arm.

[0830] In some configurations, the hooking connection comprises slot openings for securing at least one strap.

[0831] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a pair of side arms that extend in opposed laterally outward directions, wherein the pair of side arms comprise buckles at their distal ends for connecting to straps.

[0832] In some configurations, the nasal interface is configured to be supported on a patient's head via headgear, the headgear comprising a securing member positionable at a rear of a patient's head, the securing member configured to extend around a portion of a circumference of the patient's head and configured to be secured in the hair of a patient in the manner of a comb.

[0833] In some configurations, the securing member comprises a plurality of substantially vertically arranged struts, the channels between the struts configured to receive a patient's hair.

[0834] In some configurations, adjacent struts are connected by loops at opposing vertical ends of the struts forming a substantially S- or Z-shaped sinusoidal pattern.

[0835] In some configurations, the securing member comprises secondary loops arranged between the adjacent struts vertically separated from the loops.

[0836] In some configurations, the loops comprise webbing.

[0837] In some configurations, the struts have a uniform length.

[0838] In some configurations, the length of the struts reduces from a mid-point of the securing member to each end of the securing member.

[0839] In some configurations, the securing member is flexible to allow a circumferential expansion.

[0840] In some configurations, the securing member comprises buckles at each of its circumferential ends.

[0841] In accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a nasal interface is disclosed, the nasal interface comprising: an interface body comprising a gases flow channel, a first nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to delivergases to a first naris of the patient, a second nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a second naris of the patient, wherein at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is a non-sealing nasal delivery element, and a gases inlet port in the interface body and in fluid communication with the gases flow channel, the gases inlet port for receiving incoming respiratory gases from a gases supply conduit and enabling the incoming respiratory gases to be delivered into the interface body, wherein the interface body is symmetrical about a second midline plane of the interface body that is transverse to a first midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar to a sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use, wherein the interface body comprises a pair of side arms that extend in opposed laterally outward directions, to provide an articulating connection of the headgear with the nasal interface.

[0842] In some configurations, each side arm comprises a headgear connection feature to movably connect to either a ball portion or a socket portion of a ball and socket joint configured to moveably connect to respective connectors on first and second ends of a headgear.

[0843] In some configurations, the headgear connection feature on a first one of the side arms comprises either a ball portion or a socket portion of a ball and socket joint configured to moveably connect to a corresponding ball or socket portion on the headgear connecting portion for connecting the headgear end portion of a headgear, and wherein a second one of the side arms comprises either a ball portion or a socket portion of a ball and socket joint configured to moveably connect to a corresponding ball or socket portion on a headgear connecting portion for connecting a headgear end portion of a headgear.

[0844] In some configurations, each headgear connection feature is moveably connectable to either of the connectors on the first and second ends of the headgear.

[0845] In some configurations, the ball and socket joint is a pivot point that the headgear connecting portion pivots about in any direction with a maximum pivot angle of 90 degrees relative to the side arm.

[0846] In some configurations, the ball portion comprises at least one protrusion to limit the range of articulation between the ball portion and the socket portion.

[0847] In some configurations, the at least one protrusion limits the maximum pivot angle to 45 degrees relative to the side arm.

[0848] In some configurations, at least one side arm comprises a buckle.

[0849] In some configurations, the buckle is formed as a figure of eight.

[0850] In some configurations, the first and second nasal delivery elements are non-sealing.

[0851] In some configurations, the at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is the non-sealing nasal delivery element and is configured to not form a seal with the respective naris of the patient in use.

[0852] In some configurations, the at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is exclusive of sealing with the respective naris of the patient.

[0853] In some configurations, the bias flow vent is downstream of the second nasal delivery element.

[0854] In some configurations, the bias flow vent is more proximal the second nasal delivery element.

[0855] In some configurations, the bias flow vent is between the first and second nasal delivery elements.

[0856] In some configurations, the gases inlet port comprises two or a plurality of gases inlet ports.

[0857] In some configurations, the at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element wherein the gases inlet port points substantially toward the first nasal delivery element.

[0858] In some configurations, the gases inlet port is substantially directed toward the first nasal delivery element.

[0859] In some configurations, the gases inlet is arranged to direct a larger proportion of the incoming respiratory gases towards the first nasal delivery element than the second nasal delivery element.

[0860] In some configurations, the nasal interface is configured to create an asymmetric flow of gases and net pressure.

[0861] In some configurations, the gases inlet port is proximal to the first nasal delivery element and distal from the second nasal delivery element to create or contribute to the asymmetric flow.

[0862] In some configurations, the nasal interface is configured to receive the incoming respiratory gases from the gases inlet port and to provide, from the incoming respiratory gases, a first flow stream of gases configured to be substantially provided to the first naris of the patient in use and a second flow stream of gases configured to be substantially provided to the second naris of the patient in use, and is configured to directmore of the incoming respiratory gases to the first flow stream of gases than to the second flow stream of gases to create or contribute to the asymmetric flow.

[0863] In some configurations, the nasal interface is configured to receive the incoming respiratory gases from the gases inlet port and to provide, from the incoming respiratory gases, a first flow stream of gases configured to be substantially provided to the first nasal delivery element and a second flow stream of gases configured to be substantially provided to the second nasal delivery element, and is configured to direct more of the incoming respiratory gases to the first flow stream of gases than to the second flow stream of gases to create or contribute to the asymmetric flow.

[0864] In some configurations, wherein the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element lie substantially in a plane of the interface body that is transverse to a first midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar with the sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

[0865] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element are symmetrical about the midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar with the sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

[0866] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element are each substantially straight.

[0867] In some configurations, one of the nasal delivery elements is larger than the other of the nasal delivery elements.

[0868] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element is larger than the second nasal delivery element.

[0869] In some configurations, the cross section of the internal flow area of the larger nasal delivery element is greater than that of the other nasal delivery element.

[0870] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a pair of side arms that extend in opposed laterally outward directions.

[0871] In some configurations the pair of side arms are configured to be moveable to follow the contours of the face.

[0872] In some configurations, the side arms are formed of a flexible material.

[0873] In some configurations, the side arms comprise an attachment button configured to selectively connect to a corresponding button hole.

[0874] In some configurations, a head gear strap comprises the button hole for connection to the attachment button.

[0875] In some configurations, the attachment button is radially pivotable about the axis of the button hole.

[0876] In some configurations, each side arm comprises either a ball portion or a socket portion of a ball and socket joint configured to moveably connect to a corresponding ball or socket portion on a headgear connecting portion for connecting to a portion of a headgear.

[0877] In some configurations, the bias flow vent comprises an aperture or an aperture and a diffuser.

[0878] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprising at least one baffle extending along the gases flow channel from a region corresponding generally to the first gases port toward a region corresponding generally to the bias flow vent.

[0879] In some configurations, the at least one baffle is arranged such that when respiratory gases are delivered into the interface body through the gases inlet port, they pass along the baffle to the first nasal delivery element and along the baffle to the second nasal delivery element, and such that exhaled gases substantially pass along the baffle to the bias flow vent.

[0880] In some configurations, there are a plurality of the spaced apart baffles extending along the gases flow channel.

[0881] In some configurations, the at least one baffle extend across the interface body, a frame portion, or both an interface body and a frame portion of the nasal interface.

[0882] In some configurations, at least one of the nasal delivery elements has a tapering wall portion.

[0883] In some configurations, the tapering wall portion in a region proximal to the gases flow channel is thicker than the tapering wall portion in a region proximal to a gases outlet of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0884] In some configurations, a base of at least one of the nasal delivery elements has an angled portion.

[0885] In some configurations, the base has a frustoconical shape.

[0886] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a connector coupled to, or defining, the gases inlet port.

[0887] In some configurations, the connector comprises a gases delivery portion to couple to, or defining, the gases inlet port of the interface body, and a gases receipt portion configured to receive incoming respiratory gases from the gases supply conduit and to deliver the incoming respiratory gases to the gases delivery portion.

[0888] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a gases delivery elbow coupled to, or defining, the gases inlet port.

[0889] In some configurations, the gases delivery elbow comprises a gases delivery portion extending in a first direction to couple to, or defining, the gases inlet port of the interface body, and a gases receipt portion extending in a second direction and configured to receive incoming respiratory gases from the gases supply conduit and to deliver the incoming respiratory gases to the gases delivery portion, and wherein the first direction is transverse to the second direction.

[0890] In some configurations, the second direction is a laterally outward direction.

[0891] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element comprises a first gases outlet, wherein the first gases outlet defines a first axis corresponding to a direction of gases flow through the first gases outlet, and wherein the gases inlet port defines a second axis corresponding to a direction of gases flow through the gases inlet, and wherein the first axis and second axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 90 degrees relative to each other.

[0892] In some configurations, the first axis and second axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 60 degrees relative to each other.

[0893] In some configurations, the first axis and second axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 45 degrees relative to each other.

[0894] In some configurations, the first axis and second axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 30 degrees relative to each other.

[0895] In some configurations, the first axis and second axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 15 degrees relative to each other.

[0896] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element comprises a first gases outlet, wherein the first gases outlet defines a first axis corresponding to a direction of gases flow through the first gases outlet, and wherein the gases inlet port defines an inlet axis corresponding to a direction of gases flow through the gases inlet, and wherein the first axis and inlet axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 90 degrees relative to each other. The first axis and the inlet axis may be aligned with each other. Accordingly, an angle between the first axis and the inlet axis may be 0 degrees.

[0897] In some configurations, the first axis and inlet axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 60 degrees relative to each other.

[0898] In some configurations, the first axis and inlet axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 45 degrees relative to each other.

[0899] In some configurations, the first axis and inlet axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 30 degrees relative to each other.

[0900] In some configurations, the first axis and inlet axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 15 degrees relative to each other.

[0901] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a conduit retainer to couple the gases supply conduit to a headgear of the nasal interface.

[0902] In some configurations, the conduit retainer comprises an annular portion to moveably receive the gases supply conduit.

[0903] In some configurations, the conduit retainer is positioned laterally outward of the elbow and on a headgear strap adjacent to a coupling of the headgear strap with a side arm of the interface body.

[0904] In some configurations, the conduit retainer is positioned laterally outward of the elbow and on a side arm adjacent to a coupling of a headgear strap with the side arm of the interface body.

[0905] In some configurations, the conduit retainer is positioned laterally outward of the connector and on a headgear strap adjacent to a coupling of the headgear strap with a side arm of the interface body.

[0906] In some configurations, the conduit retainer is positioned laterally outward of the connector and on a side arm adjacent to a coupling of a headgear strap with the side arm of the interface body.

[0907] In some configurations, the annular portion of the conduit retainer is C- shaped.

[0908] In some configurations, the conduit retainer comprises a pair of inwardly facing arms forming a channel for a strap or arm to pass therethrough.

[0909] some configurations, the pair of inwardly facing arms maintain a space or gap in-between them.

[0910] In some configurations, the interface body comprises an external gases channel in an exterior of the interface body and adjacent at least one of the nasal delivery elements and configured to enable a flow of gases through the external gases channel.

[0911] In some configurations, the external gases channel extends along at least part of the main body portion.

[0912] In some configurations, the external gases channel extends from at or adjacent a base of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements, away from the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0913] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a frame portion, and wherein the interface body comprises the main body portion.

[0914] In some configurations, one of the nasal delivery elements is larger than the other of the nasal delivery elements, and wherein the external gases channel is adjacent a smaller one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0915] In some configurations, the the external gases channel extends along at least part of the main body portion and along at least part of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0916] In some configurations, the external gases channel extends to a tip of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements that comprises a gases outlet.

[0917] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a plurality of the external gases channels is adjacent the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0918] In some configurations, at least one of the external gases channels is adjacent each of the nasal delivery elements.

[0919] In some configurations, a plurality of the external gases channels adjacent each of the nasal delivery elements.

[0920] In some configurations, the external gases channel comprises an expanding or bifurcated configuration in region distal from the at least one of the nasal delivery elements, to enable gases flow away from the frame.

[0921] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a frame portion and a cushion portion, the cushion portion comprising an opening for receiving at least a portion of a frame for supporting the nasal interface, wherein the frame portion and cushion portion are inter-engageable.

[0922] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises the inlet gases port, and wherein the cushion portion comprises the first delivery element and the second delivery element.

[0923] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a bias flow vent for enabling exhaled gases to be expelled out of the interface body, wherein the frame portion comprises the bias flow vent.

[0924] In some configurations, the frame portion extends between the inlet gases port and the bias flow vent and forming at least part of an outer surface of the interface body.

[0925] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises a groove arranged around at least a portion of its periphery, at least a portion of an edge of the opening of the cushion portion receivable in the groove.

[0926] In some configurations, a surface of the frame portion encompassed by its periphery is substantially planar.

[0927] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises enlarged lateral portions relative to a substantially narrowed central portion of the frame portion.

[0928] In some configurations, the frame member tapers toward the enlarged lateral portions from a substantially laterally central position of the frame portion.

[0929] In some configurations, the surface of the frame portion has a substantially hour-glass shaped outline.

[0930] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises narrowed lateral portions relative to a substantially enlarged laterally central portion of the frame portion.

[0931] In some configurations, the frame member tapers toward the narrowed lateral portions from a substantially laterally central position of the frame portion.

[0932] In some configurations, the frame member comprises a substantially straight upper edge and a substantially curved lower edge.

[0933] In some configurations, the surface of the frame portion has a substantially elongated circle segment shaped outline.

[0934] In some configurations, the frame member comprises substantially straight upper and lower edges.

[0935] In some configurations, the surface of the frame portion has a substantially stadium-shaped outline.

[0936] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises a first side arm and a second side arm connected at its respective lateral edges.

[0937] In some configurations, the frame portion, first side arm and second side arm are formed as a unitary member.

[0938] In some configurations, the interface body is symmetrical about a second midline plane of the interface body that is transverse to a first midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar to a sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

[0939] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises an external cutout in an exterior of the cushion portion and adjacent at least one of the nasal delivery elements and configured to enable a flow of gases through the external cutout.

[0940] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a pair of side arms that extend in opposed laterally outward directions, wherein the pair of side arms are configured to hinged ly articulate to follow the contours of the face.

[0941] In some configurations, the side arms are formed of a flexible material.

[0942] In some configurations, each side arm comprises at least one living hinge comprising an area or line of thinned material relative to the remaining material of the side arm, the thinned material being more flexible relative to the remaining material of the side arm and the side arm configured to hingedly articulate at the living hinge.

[0943] In some configurations, the living hinge comprises two intersecting lines of thinned material forming an X-shape on the side arm, the living hinge configured to hingedly articulate along the lines of the X-shape.

[0944] In some configurations, the living hinge comprises at least one line of thinned material extending substantially vertically across the side arm, the living hinge configured to hingedly articulate along the at least one line.

[0945] In some configurations, the living hinge further comprises a further line of thinned material extending substantially vertically across the side arm, the one line is separated from the further line and the living hinge configured to hingedly articulate along the one line and / or further line.

[0946] In some configurations, the living hinge comprises an area of thinned material, the area of thinner material formed of two opposing triangular shapes with their respective apices meeting at the vertical midpoint of the side arm, the living hinge configured to hingedly articulate along any line passing through the thinned material.

[0947] In some configurations, the living hinge is formed on the patient facing side of the side arms of when in use.

[0948] In some configurations, the living hinge is configured hingedly articulate along the hinge direction with a maximum angle of 90 degrees relative to the side arm.

[0949] In some configurations, the interface body is symmetrical about a second midline plane of the interface body that is transverse to a first midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar to a sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

[0950] In some configurations, the interface body comprises at least one cheek pad positioned on straps or arms connected to lateral portions of the interface body and configured to be positioned on a patient's cheek when in use.

[0951] In some configurations, side arms or headgear arms comprise cheek pads.

[0952] In some configurations, the cheek pads are formed of a flexible material to allow the cheek pads to conform to a patient's cheek.

[0953] In some configurations, the cheek pad has a bulbous or oval shape extending in a patient direction from the strap or arm.

[0954] In some configurations, the cheek pad is formed having a substantially tubular body with a lateral channel extending therethrough.

[0955] In some configurations, the cheek pad is formed as a hollow body.

[0956] In some configurations, the cheek pad comprises a pad opening configured to inter-engage with a hooking connection formed on the strap or arm for securing the cheek pad to the strap or arm.

[0957] In some configurations, the hooking connection comprises slot openings for securing at least one strap.

[0958] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a pair of side arms that extend in opposed laterally outward directions, wherein the pair of side arms comprise buckles at their distal ends for connecting to straps.

[0959] In some configurations, the nasal interface is configured to be supported on a patient's head via headgear, the headgear comprising a securing member positionable at a rear of a patient's head, the securing member configured to extend around a portion of a circumference of the patient's head and configured to be secured in the hair of a patient in the manner of a comb.

[0960] In some configurations, the securing member comprises a plurality of substantially vertically arranged struts, the channels between the struts configured to receive a patient's hair.

[0961] In some configurations, adjacent struts are connected by loops at opposing vertical ends of the struts forming a substantially S- or Z-shaped sinusoidal pattern.

[0962] In some configurations, the securing member comprises secondary loops arranged between the adjacent struts vertically separated from the loops.

[0963] In some configurations, the loops comprise webbing.

[0964] In some configurations, the struts have a uniform length.

[0965] In some configurations, the length of the struts reduces from a mid-point of the securing member to each end of the securing member.

[0966] In some configurations, the securing member is flexible to allow a circumferential expansion.

[0967] In some configurations, the securing member comprises buckles at each of its circumferential ends.

[0968] In accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a nasal interface is disclosed, the nasal interface comprising: an interface body comprising a gases flow channel in a main body portion of the interface body, a first nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gasesflow channel and configured to deliver gases to a first naris of the patient, a second nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a second naris of the patient, wherein at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is a non-sealing nasal delivery element, and a gases inlet port in the interface body and in fluid communication with the gases flow channel, the gases inlet port for receiving incoming respiratory gases from a gases supply conduit and enabling the incoming respiratory gases to be delivered into the interface body, wherein the interface body comprises an external cutout in an exterior of the interface body and adjacent at least one of the nasal delivery elements and configured to enable a flow of gases through the external cutout.

[0969] In some configurations, the external cutout extends from or adjacently from at least one of the nasal delivery elements along part of a main body portion of the interface body to a lateral edge of the interface body.

[0970] In some configurations, the external cutout extends around or adjacently around a base of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements, and away from the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0971] In some configurations, the external cutout is a recess in the main body portion of the interface body.

[0972] In some configurations, walls of the recess are formed at a substantially transverse angle relative to the surface of the main body portion.

[0973] In some configurations, walls of the recess are formed at an angle between about 35 and 60 degrees relative to the surface of the main body portion.

[0974] In some configurations, the external cutout comprises parallel sides extending between the lateral edge to an arc extending around the base of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

[0975] In some configurations, the arc of the external cutout shares a central axis with the at least one nasal delivery element.

[0976] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a second external cutout extending from or adjacently from the other one of the nasal delivery elements along part of a main body portion of the interface body to the opposing lateral edge of the interface body.

[0977] In some configurations, the first and second external cutouts are symmetrical about a midline plane through the interface body, wherein the midline plane is parallel to a sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

[0978] In some configurations, wherein the interface body comprises a frame portion and a cushion portion, the cushion portion comprising an opening for receiving at least a portion of a frame for supporting the nasal interface, wherein the frame portion and cushion portion are inter-engageable.

[0979] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises the inlet gases port, and wherein the cushion portion comprises the first delivery element and the second delivery element.

[0980] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a bias flow vent for enabling exhaled gases to be expelled out of the interface body, wherein the frame portion comprises the bias flow vent.

[0981] In some configurations, the frame portion extends between the inlet gases port and the bias flow vent and forming at least part of an outer surface of the interface body.

[0982] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises a groove arranged around at least a portion of its periphery, at least a portion of an edge of the opening of the cushion portion receivable in the groove.

[0983] In some configurations, a surface of the frame portion encompassed by its periphery is substantially planar.

[0984] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises enlarged lateral portions relative to a substantially narrowed central portion of the frame portion.

[0985] In some configurations, the frame member tapers toward the enlarged lateral portions from a substantially laterally central position of the frame portion.

[0986] In some configurations, the surface of the frame portion has a substantially hour-glass shaped outline.

[0987] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises narrowed lateral portions relative to a substantially enlarged laterally central portion of the frame portion.

[0988] In some configurations, the frame member tapers toward the narrowed lateral portions from a substantially laterally central position of the frame portion.

[0989] In some configurations, the frame member comprises a substantially straight upper edge and a substantially curved lower edge.

[0990] In some configurations, the surface of the frame portion has a substantially elongated circle segment shaped outline.

[0991] In some configurations, the frame member comprises substantially straight upper and lower edges.

[0992] In some configurations, the surface of the frame portion has a substantially stadium-shaped outline.

[0993] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises a first side arm and a second side arm connected at its respective lateral edges.

[0994] In some configurations, the frame portion, first side arm and second side arm are formed as a unitary member.

[0995] In some configurations, the interface body is symmetrical about a second midline plane of the interface body that is transverse to a first midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar to a sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

[0996] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises an external cutout in an exterior of the cushion portion and adjacent at least one of the nasal delivery elements and configured to enable a flow of gases through the external cutout.

[0997] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a pair of side arms that extend in opposed laterally outward directions, wherein the pair of side arms are configured to hinged ly articulate to follow the contours of the face.

[0998] In some configurations, the side arms are formed of a flexible material.

[0999] In some configurations, the side arms comprise an attachment button configured to selectively connect to a corresponding button hole.

[1000] In some configurations, a headgear comprises the button hole for connection to the attachment button.

[1001] In some configurations, a headgear strap or headgear connecting portion part of the headgear comprises the button hole for connection to the attachment button.

[1002] In some configurations, the attachment button is radially pivotable about the axis of the button hole.

[1003] In some configurations, each side arm comprises at least one living hinge comprising an area or line of thinned material relative to the remaining material of the side arm, the thinned material being more flexible relative to the remaining material of the side arm and the side arm configured to hingedly articulate at the living hinge.

[1004] In some configurations, the living hinge comprises two intersecting lines of thinned material forming an X-shape on the side arm, the living hinge configured to hingedly articulate along the lines of the X-shape.

[1005] In some configurations, the living hinge comprises at least one line of thinned material extending substantially vertically across the side arm, the living hinge configured to hingedly articulate along the at least one line.

[1006] In some configurations, the living hinge further comprises a further line of thinned material extending substantially vertically across the side arm, the one line is separated from the further line and the living hinge configured to hingedly articulate along the one line and / or further line.

[1007] In some configurations, the living hinge comprises an area of thinned material, the area of thinner material formed of two opposing triangular shapes with their respective apices meeting at the vertical midpoint of the side arm, the living hinge configured to hingedly articulate along any line passing through the thinned material.

[1008] In some configurations, the living hinge is formed on the patient facing side of the side arms of when in use.

[1009] In some configurations, the living hinge is configured hingedly articulate along the hinge direction with a maximum angle of 90 degrees relative to the side arm.

[1010] In some configurations, the interface body is symmetrical about a second midline plane of the interface body that is transverse to a first midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar to a sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

[1011] In some configurations, the interface body comprises at least one cheek pad positioned on straps or arms connected to lateral portions of the interface body and configured to be positioned on a patient's cheek when in use.

[1012] In some configurations, side arms or headgear arms comprise cheek pads.

[1013] In some configurations, the cheek pads are formed of a flexible material to allow the cheek pads to conform to a patient's cheek.

[1014] In some configurations, the cheek pad has a bulbous or oval shape extending in a patient direction from the strap or arm.

[1015] In some configurations, the cheek pad is formed having a substantially tubular body with a lateral channel extending therethrough.

[1016] In some configurations, the cheek pad is formed as a hollow body.

[1017] In some configurations, the cheek pad comprises a pad opening configured to inter-engage with a hooking connection formed on the strap or arm for securing the cheek pad to the strap or arm.

[1018] In some configurations, the hooking connection comprises slot openings for securing at least one strap.

[1019] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a pair of side arms that extend in opposed laterally outward directions, wherein the pair of side arms comprise buckles at their distal ends for connecting to straps.

[1020] In some configurations, the nasal interface is configured to be supported on a patient's head via headgear, the headgear comprising a securing member positionable at a rear of a patient's head, the securing member configured to extend around a portion of a circumference of the patient's head and configured to be secured in the hair of a patient in the manner of a comb.

[1021] In some configurations, the securing member comprises a plurality of substantially vertically arranged struts, the channels between the struts configured to receive a patient's hair.

[1022] In some configurations, adjacent struts are connected by loops at opposing vertical ends of the struts forming a substantially S- or Z-shaped sinusoidal pattern.

[1023] In some configurations, the securing member comprises secondary loops arranged between the adjacent struts vertically separated from the loops.

[1024] In some configurations, the loops comprise webbing.

[1025] In some configurations, the struts have a uniform length.

[1026] In some configurations, the length of the struts reduces from a mid-point of the securing member to each end of the securing member.

[1027] In some configurations, the securing member is flexible to allow a circumferential expansion.

[1028] In some configurations, the securing member comprises buckles at each of its circumferential ends.

[1029] In some configurations, the nasal interface is configured to create an asymmetric flow of gases at a patient's nasal airways.

[1030] In accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a nasal interface is disclosed, the nasal interface comprising: an interface body comprising a gases flow channel in a main body portion of the interface body, a first nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a first naris of the patient, a second nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a second naris of the patient, wherein at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is a non-sealing nasal delivery element, and a gases inlet port in the interface body and in fluid communication with the gases flow channel, the gases inlet port for receiving incoming respiratory gases from a gases supply conduit and enabling the incoming respiratory gases to be delivered into the interface body, wherein the interface body comprises a frame portion and a cushion portion, the cushion portion comprising an opening for receiving at least a portion of aframe for supporting the nasal interface, wherein the frame portion and cushion portion are inter-engageable.

[1031] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises the inlet gases port, and wherein the cushion portion comprises the first delivery element and the second delivery element.

[1032] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a bias flow vent for enabling exhaled gases to be expelled out of the interface body, wherein the frame portion comprises the bias flow vent.

[1033] In some configurations, the frame portion extends between the inlet gases port and the bias flow vent and forming at least part of an outer surface of the interface body.

[1034] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises a groove arranged around at least a portion of its periphery, at least a portion of an edge of the opening of the cushion portion receivable in the groove.

[1035] In some configurations, a surface of the frame portion encompassed by its periphery is substantially planar.

[1036] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises enlarged lateral portions relative to a substantially narrowed central portion of the frame portion.

[1037] In some configurations, the frame member tapers toward the enlarged lateral portions from a substantially laterally central position of the frame portion.

[1038] In some configurations, the surface of the frame portion has a substantially hour-glass shaped outline.

[1039] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises narrowed lateral portions relative to a substantially enlarged laterally central portion of the frame portion.

[1040] In some configurations, the frame member tapers toward the narrowed lateral portions from a substantially laterally central position of the frame portion.

[1041] In some configurations, the frame member comprises a substantially straight upper edge and a substantially curved lower edge.

[1042] In some configurations, the surface of the frame portion has a substantially elongated circle segment shaped outline.

[1043] In some configurations, the frame member comprises substantially straight upper and lower edges.

[1044] In some configurations, the surface of the frame portion has a substantially stadium-shaped outline.

[1045] In some configurations, the frame portion comprises a first side arm and a second side arm connected at its respective lateral edges.

[1046] In some configurations, the frame portion, first side arm and second side arm are formed as a unitary member.

[1047] In some configurations, the interface body is symmetrical about a second midline plane of the interface body that is transverse to a first midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar to a sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

[1048] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises an external cutout in an exterior of the cushion portion and adjacent at least one of the nasal delivery elements and configured to enable a flow of gases through the external cutout.

[1049] In some configurations, the interface body comprises an external cutout in an exterior of the interface body and adjacent at least one of the nasal delivery elements and configured to enable a flow of gases through the external cutout.

[1050] In some configurations, the external cutout extends from or adjacently from at least one of the nasal delivery elements along part of a main body portion of the interface body to a lateral edge of the interface body.

[1051] In some configurations, the external cutout extends around or adjacently around a base of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements, and away from the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

[1052] In some configurations, the external cutout is a recess in the main body portion of the interface body.

[1053] In some configurations, walls of the recess are formed at a substantially transverse angle relative to the surface of the main body portion.

[1054] In some configurations, walls of the recess are formed at an angle between about 35 and 60 degrees relative to the surface of the main body portion.

[1055] In some configurations, the external cutout comprises parallel sides extending between the lateral edge to an arc extending around the base of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

[1056] In some configurations, the arc of the external cutout shares a central axis with the at least one nasal delivery element.

[1057] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a second external cutout extending from or adjacently from the other one of the nasal delivery elements along part of a main body portion of the interface body to the opposing lateral edge of the interface body.

[1058] In some configurations, the first and second external cutouts are symmetrical about a midline plane through the interface body, wherein the midline plane is parallel to a sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

[1059] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a pair of side arms that extend in opposed laterally outward directions, wherein the pair of side arms are configured to hinged ly articulate to follow the contours of the face.

[1060] In some configurations, the side arms are formed of a flexible material.

[1061] In some configurations, each side arm comprises at least one living hinge comprising an area or line of thinned material relative to the remaining material of the side arm, the thinned material being more flexible relative to the remaining material of the side arm and the side arm configured to hingedly articulate at the living hinge.

[1062] In some configurations, the living hinge comprises two intersecting lines of thinned material forming an X-shape on the side arm, the living hinge configured to hingedly articulate along the lines of the X-shape.

[1063] In some configurations, the living hinge comprises at least one line of thinned material extending substantially vertically across the side arm, the living hinge configured to hingedly articulate along the at least one line.

[1064] In some configurations, the living hinge further comprises a further line of thinned material extending substantially vertically across the side arm, the one line is separated from the further line and the living hinge configured to hingedly articulate along the one line and / or further line.

[1065] In some configurations, the living hinge comprises an area of thinned material, the area of thinner material formed of two opposing triangular shapes with their respective apices meeting at the vertical midpoint of the side arm, the living hinge configured to hingedly articulate along any line passing through the thinned material.

[1066] In some configurations, the living hinge is formed on the patient facing side of the side arms of when in use.

[1067] In some configurations, the living hinge is configured hingedly articulate along the hinge direction with a maximum angle of 90 degrees relative to the side arm.

[1068] In some configurations, the interface body is symmetrical about a second midline plane of the interface body that is transverse to a first midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar to a sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

[1069] In some configurations, the interface body comprises at least one cheek pad positioned on straps or arms connected to lateral portions of the interface body and configured to be positioned on a patient's cheek when in use.

[1070] In some configurations, side arms or headgear arms comprise cheek pads.

[1071] In some configurations, the cheek pads are formed of a flexible material to allow the cheek pads to conform to a patient's cheek.

[1072] In some configurations, the cheek pad has a bulbous or oval shape extending in a patient direction from the strap or arm.

[1073] In some configurations, the cheek pad is formed having a substantially tubular body with a lateral channel extending therethrough.

[1074] In some configurations, the cheek pad is formed as a hollow body.

[1075] In some configurations, the cheek pad comprises a pad opening configured to inter-engage with a hooking connection formed on the strap or arm for securing the cheek pad to the strap or arm.

[1076] In some configurations, the hooking connection comprises slot openings for securing at least one strap.

[1077] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a pair of side arms that extend in opposed laterally outward directions, wherein the pair of side arms comprise buckles at their distal ends for connecting to straps.

[1078] In some configurations, the nasal interface is configured to be supported on a patient's head via headgear, the headgear comprising a securing member positionable at a rear of a patient's head, the securing member configured to extend around a portion of a circumference of the patient's head and configured to be secured in the hair of a patient in the manner of a comb.

[1079] In some configurations, the securing member comprises a plurality of substantially vertically arranged struts, the channels between the struts configured to receive a patient's hair.

[1080] In some configurations, adjacent struts are connected by loops at opposing vertical ends of the struts forming a substantially S- or Z-shaped sinusoidal pattern.

[1081] In some configurations, the securing member comprises secondary loops arranged between the adjacent struts vertically separated from the loops.

[1082] In some configurations, the loops comprise webbing.

[1083] In some configurations, the struts have a uniform length.

[1084] In some configurations, the length of the struts reduces from a mid-point of the securing member to each end of the securing member.

[1085] In some configurations, the securing member is flexible to allow a circumferential expansion.

[1086] In some configurations, the securing member comprises buckles at each of its circumferential ends.

[1087] In some configurations, the nasal interface is configured to create an asymmetric flow of gases at a patient's nasal airways.

[1088] In accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a nasal interface is disclosed, the nasal interface comprising: an interface body comprising a gases flow channel in a main body portion of the interface body, a first nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a first naris of the patient, a second nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a second naris of the patient, wherein at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is a non-sealing nasal delivery element, and a gases inlet port in the interface body and in fluid communication with the gases flow channel, the gases inlet port for receiving incoming respiratory gases from a gases supply conduit and enabling the incoming respiratory gases to be delivered into the interface body, wherein the interface body comprises a pair of side arms that extend in opposed laterally outward directions, wherein the pair of side arms are configured to hinged ly articulate to follow the contours of the face.

[1089] In some configurations, the side arms are formed of a flexible material.

[1090] In some configurations, the side arms comprise an attachment button configured to selectively connect to a corresponding button hole.

[1091] In some configurations, a headgear comprises the button hole for connection to the attachment button.

[1092] In some configurations, a headgear strap or headgear connecting portion part of the headgear comprises the button hole for connection to the attachment button.

[1093] In some configurations, the attachment button is radially pivotable about the axis of the button hole.

[1094] In some configurations, each side arm comprises at least one living hinge comprising an area or line of thinned material relative to the remaining material of the side arm, the thinned material being more flexible relative to the remaining material of the side arm and the side arm configured to hingedly articulate at the living hinge.

[1095] In some configurations, the living hinge comprises two intersecting lines of thinned material forming an X-shape on the side arm, the living hinge configured to hinged ly articulate along the lines of the X-shape.

[1096] In some configurations, the living hinge comprises at least one line of thinned material extending substantially vertically across the side arm, the living hinge configured to hingedly articulate along the at least one line.

[1097] In some configurations, the living hinge further comprises a further line of thinned material extending substantially vertically across the side arm, the one line is separated from the further line and the living hinge configured to hingedly articulate along the one line and / or further line.

[1098] In some configurations, the living hinge comprises an area of thinned material, the area of thinner material formed of two opposing triangular shapes with their respective apices meeting at the vertical midpoint of the side arm, the living hinge configured to hingedly articulate along any line passing through the thinned material.

[1099] In some configurations, the living hinge is formed on the patient facing side of the side arms of when in use.

[1100] In some configurations, the living hinge is configured hingedly articulate along the hinge direction with a maximum angle of 90 degrees relative to the side arm.[HOI] In some configurations, the interface body is symmetrical about a second midline plane of the interface body that is transverse to a first midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar to a sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

[1102] In some configurations, the interface body comprises at least one cheek pad positioned on straps or arms connected to lateral portions of the interface body and configured to be positioned on a patient's cheek when in use.

[1103] In some configurations, side arms or headgear arms comprise cheek pads.

[1104] In some configurations, the cheek pads are formed of a flexible material to allow the cheek pads to conform to a patient's cheek.

[1105] In some configurations, the cheek pad has a bulbous or oval shape extending in a patient direction from the strap or arm.

[1106] In some configurations, the cheek pad is formed having a substantially tubular body with a lateral channel extending therethrough.

[1107] In some configurations, the cheek pad is formed as a hollow body.

[1108] In some configurations, the cheek pad comprises a pad opening configured to inter-engage with a hooking connection formed on the strap or arm for securing the cheek pad to the strap or arm.

[1109] In some configurations, the hooking connection comprises slot openings for securing at least one strap.

[1110] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a pair of side arms that extend in opposed laterally outward directions, wherein the pair of side arms comprise buckles at their distal ends for connecting to straps.

[1111] In some configurations, the nasal interface is configured to be supported on a patient's head via headgear, the headgear comprising a securing member positionable at a rear of a patient's head, the securing member configured to extend around a portion of a circumference of the patient's head and configured to be secured in the hair of a patient in the manner of a comb.

[1112] In some configurations, the securing member comprises a plurality of substantially vertically arranged struts, the channels between the struts configured to receive a patient's hair.

[1113] In some configurations, adjacent struts are connected by loops at opposing vertical ends of the struts forming a substantially S- or Z-shaped sinusoidal pattern.

[1114] In some configurations, the securing member comprises secondary loops arranged between the adjacent struts vertically separated from the loops.

[1115] In some configurations, the loops comprise webbing.

[1116] In some configurations, the struts have a uniform length.

[1117] In some configurations, the length of the struts reduces from a mid-point of the securing member to each end of the securing member.

[1118] In some configurations, the securing member is flexible to allow a circumferential expansion.

[1119] In some configurations, the securing member comprises buckles at each of its circumferential ends.

[1120] In some configurations, the nasal interface is configured to create an asymmetric flow of gases at a patient's nasal airways.

[1121] In accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a method of changing the configuration or direction of a gases inlet of a nasal interface (as described herein) is disclosed, the method comprising articulating the hinge of the living hinge, such that nasal interface goes from a first configuration where the gases inlet is on a left side of the nasal interface to a secondconfiguration where gases inlet is on a right side of the nasal interface, wherein articulating the hinge the change from first configuration to second configuration.

[1122] In accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a nasal interface is disclosed, the nasal interface comprising: an interface body comprising a gases flow channel in a main body portion of the interface body, a first nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a first naris of the patient, a second nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a second naris of the patient, wherein at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is a non-sealing nasal delivery element, and a gases inlet port in the interface body and in fluid communication with the gases flow channel, the gases inlet port for receiving incoming respiratory gases from a gases supply conduit and enabling the incoming respiratory gases to be delivered into the interface body, wherein the interface body comprises at least one cheek pad positioned on straps or arms connected to lateral portions of the interface body and configured to be positioned on a patient's cheek when in use.

[1123] In some configurations, side arms or headgear comprise cheek pads.

[1124] In some configurations, the cheek pads are formed of a flexible material to allow the cheek pads to conform to a patient's cheek.

[1125] In some configurations, the cheek pad has a bulbous or oval shape extending in a patient direction from the strap or arm.

[1126] In some configurations, the cheek pad is formed having a substantially tubular body with a lateral channel extending therethrough.

[1127] In some configurations, the cheek pad is formed as a hollow body.

[1128] In some configurations, the cheek pad comprises a pad opening configured to inter-engage with a hooking connection formed on the strap or arm for securing the cheek pad to the strap or arm.

[1129] In some configurations, the hooking connection comprises slot openings for securing at least one strap.

[1130] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a pair of side arms that extend in opposed laterally outward directions, wherein the pair of side arms comprise buckles at their distal ends for connecting to straps.

[1131] In some configurations, the nasal interface is configured to be supported on a patient's head via headgear, the headgear comprising a securing member positionable at a rear of a patient's head, the securing member configured to extend around a portionof a circumference of the patient's head and configured to be secured in the hair of a patient in the manner of a comb.

[1132] In some configurations, the securing member comprises a plurality of substantially vertically arranged struts, the channels between the struts configured to receive a patient's hair.

[1133] In some configurations, adjacent struts are connected by loops at opposing vertical ends of the struts forming a substantially S- or Z-shaped sinusoidal pattern.

[1134] In some configurations, the securing member comprises secondary loops arranged between the adjacent struts vertically separated from the loops.

[1135] In some configurations, the loops comprise webbing.

[1136] In some configurations, the struts have a uniform length.

[1137] In some configurations, the length of the struts reduces from a mid-point of the securing member to each end of the securing member.

[1138] In some configurations, the securing member is flexible to allow a circumferential expansion.

[1139] In some configurations, the securing member comprises buckles at each of its circumferential ends.

[1140] In some configurations, the nasal interface is configured to create an asymmetric flow of gases at a patient's nasal airways.

[1141] In accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a nasal interface is disclosed, the nasal interface comprising: an interface body comprising a gases flow channel in a main body portion of the interface body, a first nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a first naris of the patient, a second nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a second naris of the patient, wherein at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is a non-sealing nasal delivery element, and a gases inlet port in the interface body and in fluid communication with the gases flow channel, the gases inlet port for receiving incoming respiratory gases from a gases supply conduit and enabling the incoming respiratory gases to be delivered into the interface body, wherein the interface body comprises a pair of side arms that extend in opposed laterally outward directions, wherein the pair of side arms comprise buckles at their distal ends for connecting to straps.

[1142] In accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a nasal interface is disclosed, the nasal interfacecomprising: an interface body comprising a gases flow channel in a main body portion of the interface body, a first nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a first naris of the patient, a second nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a second naris of the patient, wherein at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is a non-sealing nasal delivery element, and a gases inlet port in the interface body and in fluid communication with the gases flow channel, the gases inlet port for receiving incoming respiratory gases from a gases supply conduit and enabling the incoming respiratory gases to be delivered into the interface body, wherein nasal interface is configured to be supported on a patient's head via headgear, the headgear comprising a securing member positionable at a rear of a patient's head, the securing member configured to extend around a portion of a circumference of the patient's head and configured to be secured in the hair of a patient in the manner of a comb.

[1143] In some configurations, the securing member comprises a plurality of substantially vertically arranged struts, the channels between the struts configured to receive a patient's hair.

[1144] In some configurations, adjacent struts are connected by loops at opposing vertical ends of the struts forming a substantially S- or Z-shaped sinusoidal pattern.

[1145] In some configurations, the securing member comprises secondary loops arranged between the adjacent struts vertically separated from the loops.

[1146] In some configurations, the loops comprise webbing.

[1147] In some configurations, the struts have a uniform length.

[1148] In some configurations, the length of the struts reduces from a mid-point of the securing member to each end of the securing member.

[1149] In some configurations, the securing member is flexible to allow a circumferential expansion.

[1150] In some configurations, the securing member comprises buckles at each of its circumferential ends.

[1151] In some configurations, the nasal interface is configured to create an asymmetric flow of gases at a patient's nasal airways.

[1152] In accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a method of changing the configuration or direction of a gases inlet of a nasal interface outlined above or herein is disclosed, the method comprising: the method comprising rotating the ball portion within the socket portion ofthe ball and socket joint, such that nasal interface goes from a first configuration where the gases inlet is on a left side of the nasal interface to a second configuration where gases inlet is on a right side of the nasal interface, wherein rotating the ball portion in the socket portion causes the change from first configuration to second configuration.

[1153] In accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a headgear is disclosed, the headgear comprising : a securing member positionable at a rear of a patient's head, the securing member configured to extend around a portion of a circumference of the patient's head and configured to be secured in the hair of a patient in the manner of a comb.

[1154] In some configurations, the securing member comprises a plurality of substantially vertically arranged struts, the channels between the struts configured to receive the patient's hair.

[1155] In some configurations, adjacent struts are connected by loops at opposing vertical ends of the struts forming a substantially S- or Z-shaped sinusoidal pattern.

[1156] In some configurations, the securing member comprises secondary loops arranged between the adjacent struts vertically separated from the loops.

[1157] In some configurations, the loops comprise webbing.

[1158] In some configurations, the struts have a uniform length.

[1159] In some configurations, the length of the struts reduces from a mid-point of the securing member to each end of the securing member.

[1160] In some configurations, the securing member is flexible to allow a circumferential expansion.

[1161] In some configurations, the securing member comprises buckles at each of its circumferential ends.

[1162] In accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a patient interface is disclosed, the patient interface comprising : a headgear according to any of the configurations above; and a nasal interface for delivering respiratory gases to a patient, wherein the headgear is configured to support the nasal interface on a patient's head.

[1163] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises an interface body comprising a gases flow channel in a main body portion of the interface body, a first nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a first naris of the patient, a second nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a second naris of the patient.

[1164] In some configurations, at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is a non-sealing nasal delivery element.

[1165] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a gases inlet port in the interface body and in fluid communication with the gases flow channel, the gases inlet port for receiving incoming respiratory gases from a gases supply conduit and enabling the incoming respiratory gases to be delivered into the interface body.

[1166] In some configurations, the nasal interface is configured to create an asymmetric flow of gases at a patient's nasal airways.

[1167] In some configurations, the gases inlet port is arranged to direct a larger proportion of the incoming respiratory gases towards the first nasal delivery element than the second nasal delivery element to create or contribute to an asymmetric flow, wherein the gases inlet port is optionally substantially directed toward the first nasal delivery element and / or proximal to the first nasal delivery element and distal from the second nasal delivery element.

[1168] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element lie substantially in a plane of the interface body that is transverse, optionally orthogonal, to a first midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar with the sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use, the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element optionally being symmetrical about said midline plane of the interface body.

[1169] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a first side at which the first and second nasal delivery elements are provided and an opposite second side at which the inlet port as well as the bias flow vent are provided, the interface body as a whole optionally being curved and having a radial inner surface forming the first side and a radial outer surface forming the second side.

[1170] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element is larger than the second nasal delivery element, optionally the cross section of the internal flow area of the larger nasal delivery element being greater than that of the other nasal delivery element.

[1171] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises at least one baffle extending along the gases flow channel from a region corresponding generally to the gases inlet port toward a region corresponding generally to the bias flow vent, wherein the at least one baffle is optionally arranged such that when respiratory gases are delivered into the interface body through the gases inlet port, they pass along the baffle to the first nasal delivery element and along the baffle to the second nasal delivery element, and such that exhaled gases substantially pass along the baffle to the bias flow vent.

[1172] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a connector for coupling the gases supply conduit to the interface body to enable the passage of the incoming respiratory gases from the gases supply conduit to the gases flow channel, the connector being coupled to or defining the gases inlet port, wherein the connector optionally is an elbow, which is optionally configured to redirect the gas flow by more than 30 degrees, more than 60 degrees or by approximately 90 degrees.

[1173] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a pair of side arms that extend in opposed laterally outward directions, wherein optionally, the pair of side arms are configured to be moveable to follow the contours of the face, optionally, the side arms being formed of a flexible material, optionally, wherein each side arm comprises either a ball portion or a socket portion of a ball and socket joint configured to moveably connect to a corresponding ball or socket portion on a headgear.

[1174] In accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a nasal interface is disclosed, the nasal interface comprising: an interface body comprising a gases flow channel, a first nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a first naris of the patient, a second nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a second naris of the patient, wherein at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is a non-sealing nasal delivery element, a gases inlet port in the interface body and in fluid communication with the gases flow channel, the gases inlet port for receiving incoming respiratory gases from a gases supply conduit and enabling the incoming respiratory gases to be delivered into the interface body, and a bias flow vent for enabling exhaled gases to be expelled out of the interface body, wherein the nasal interface is configured to create an asymmetric flow of gases at a patient's nasal airways.

[1175] In some configurations, the gases inlet port is arranged to direct a larger proportion of the incoming respiratory gases towards the first nasal delivery element than the second nasal delivery element to create or contribute to the asymmetric flow, wherein the gases inlet port is optionally substantially directed toward the first nasal delivery element and / or proximal to the first nasal delivery element and distal from the second nasal delivery element.

[1176] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element comprises a first gases outlet, wherein the first gases outlet defines a first axis corresponding to a direction of gases flow through the first gases outlet, and wherein the gases inlet port defines an inlet axis corresponding to a direction of gases flow through the gases inlet, and whereinthe first axis and the inlet axis are aligned with each other or at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 90 degrees relative to each other, optionally less than 60 degrees, 45 degrees, 30 degrees or 15 degrees relative to each other.

[1177] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element lie substantially in a plane of the interface body that is transverse, optionally orthogonal, to a first midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar with the sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use, the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element optionally being symmetrical about said midline plane of the interface body.

[1178] In some configurations, the second nasal delivery element comprises a second gases outlet, wherein the second gases outlet defines a second axis corresponding to a direction of gases flow through the second gases outlet, wherein the first axis, the second axis and the inlet axis all lie within the plane of the interface body that is transverse to said first midline plane.

[1179] In some configurations, the first axis and the second axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 90 degrees relative to each other, optionally less than 60 degrees, 45 degrees, 30 degrees or 15 degrees relative to each other.

[1180] In some configurations, the bias flow vent defines an outlet axis corresponding to a direction of gases flow through the bias flow vent, wherein the second axis and the outlet axis are aligned with each other or at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 90 degrees relative to each other, optionally less than 60 degrees, 45 degrees, 30 degrees or 15 degrees relative to each other.

[1181] In some configurations, the gases inlet port and the bias flow vent are provided on opposite sides of said midline plane, the gases inlet port and the bias flow vent optionally being symmetrical about said midline plane.

[1182] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a first side at which the first and second nasal delivery elements are provided and an opposite second side at which the inlet port as well as the bias flow vent are provided, the interface body as a whole optionally being curved and having a radial inner surface forming the first side and a radial outer surface forming the second side.

[1183] In some configurations, the first nasal delivery element is larger than the second nasal delivery element, optionally the cross section of the internal flow area of the larger nasal delivery element being greater than that of the other nasal delivery element.

[1184] In some configurations, the bias flow vent comprises an aperture or an aperture and a diffuser.

[1185] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises at least one baffle extending along the gases flow channel from a region corresponding generally to the gases inlet port toward a region corresponding generally to the bias flow vent, wherein the at least one baffle is optionally arranged such that when respiratory gases are delivered into the interface body through the gases inlet port, they pass along the baffle to the first nasal delivery element and along the baffle to the second nasal delivery element, and such that exhaled gases substantially pass along the baffle to the bias flow vent.

[1186] In some configurations, the nasal interface comprises a connector for coupling the gases supply conduit to the interface body to enable the passage of the incoming respiratory gases from the gases supply conduit to the gases flow channel, the connector being coupled to or defining the gases inlet port, wherein the connector optionally is an elbow, which is optionally configured to redirect the gas flow by more than 30 degrees, more than 60 degrees or by approximately 90 degrees.

[1187] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a pair of side arms that extend in opposed laterally outward directions, wherein optionally, the pair of side arms are configured to be moveable to follow the contours of the face, optionally, the side arms being formed of a flexible material, optionally, wherein each side arm comprises either a ball portion or a socket portion of a ball and socket joint configured to moveably connect to a corresponding ball or socket portion on a headgear.

[1188] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a pair of side arms that extend in opposed laterally outward directions, wherein the pair of side arms are configured to hinged ly articulate to follow the contours of the face, and optionally wherein each side arm comprises at least one living hinge comprising an area or line of thinned material relative to the remaining material of the side arm, the thinned material being more flexible relative to the remaining material of the side arm and the side arm configured to hingedly articulate at the living hinge.

[1189] In some configurations, the interface body comprises a frame portion and a cushion portion, the cushion portion comprising an opening for receiving at least a portion of a frame for supporting the nasal interface, wherein the frame portion and cushion portion are inter-engageable, and optionally wherein the frame portion comprises a groove arranged around at least a portion of its periphery, at least a portion of an edge of the opening of the cushion portion receivable in the groove, and which optionally a surface of the frame portion encompassed by its periphery is substantially planar.

[1190] In some configurations, the interface body comprises at least one cheek pad positioned on straps or arms connected to lateral portions of the interface body andconfigured to be positioned on a patient's cheek when in use and optionally the cheek pads are formed of a flexible material to allow the cheek pads to conform to a patient's cheek, and which optionally comprises a pad opening configured to inter-engage with a hooking connection formed on the strap or arm for securing the cheek pad to the strap or arm.

[1191] In some configurations, the interface body comprises an external cutout in an exterior of the interface body and adjacent at least one of the nasal delivery elements and configured to enable a flow of gases through the external cutout, and optionally wherein the external cutout is a recess in the main body portion of the interface body, and which optionally walls of the recess are formed at a substantially transverse angle relative to the surface of the main body portion.

[1192] In some configurations, nasal interface is configured to be supported on a patient's head via headgear, the headgear comprising a securing member positionable at a rear of a patient's head, the securing member configured to extend around a portion of a circumference of the patient's head and configured to be secured in the hair of a patient in the manner of a comb, and optionally comprising a plurality of substantially vertically arranged struts, and which adjacent struts optionally are connected by loops at opposing vertical ends of the struts forming a substantially S- or Z-shaped sinusoidal pattern.

[1193] In some configurations, the headgear comprises a securing member positionable at a rear of a patient's head, the securing member configured to extend around a portion of a circumference of the patient's head and configured to be secured in the hair of a patient in the manner of a comb, and optionally comprising a plurality of substantially vertically arranged struts, and which adjacent struts optionally are connected by loops at opposing vertical ends of the struts forming a substantially S- or Z-shaped sinusoidal pattern.

[1194] In accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a patient interface is disclosed, the patient interface comprising: a headgear according to any configuration above and a nasal interface according to any configuration above, wherein the headgear is configured to support the nasal interface on a patient's head.

[1195] In accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a patient interface is disclosed, the patient interface: a nasal interface according to any configuration above and a headgear comprising first and second ends with ball or socket portions that are configured to connect to the ball or socket portions on the side arms.

[1196] In accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a respiratory therapy apparatus is disclosed, the respiratory therapy apparatus comprising : a controller; an ambient air inlet; a gases outlet; and a nasal interface according to any configuration above or a patient interface according to configuration above.

[1197] In accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a patient interface is disclosed, the patient interface comprising: a nasal interface outlined above or herein is disclosed and a headgear comprising first and second ends with connectors that are configured to connect to the headgear connection features on the side arms.

[1198] In accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a respiratory therapy apparatus is disclosed, the respiratory therapy apparatus comprising : a controller; an ambient air inlet; a gases outlet; and a nasal interface outlined above or herein is disclosed.

[1199] In some configurations, the apparatus comprises a blood oxygen saturation sensor; an oxygen inlet; and a valve in fluid communication with the oxygen inlet to control a flow of oxygen through the oxygen inlet; wherein the controller is configured to control the valve based on at least one measurement of oxygen saturation from the blood oxygen saturation sensor.

[1200] Features from one or more embodiments or configurations may be combined with features of one or more other embodiments or configurations. Additionally, more than one embodiment or configuration may be used together in a respiratory support system during a process of respiratory support of a patient.

[1201] As used herein a feature referred to as "a" feature means a singular and / or plurality and / or at least one of said feature.

[1202] As used herein the term "(s)" following a noun means the plural and / or singular form of that noun.

[1203] As used herein the term "and / or" means "and" or "or", or where the context allows both.

[1204] The term "comprising" as used in this specification means "consisting at least in part of". When interpreting each statement in this specification that includes the term "comprising", features other than that or those prefaced by the term may also be present. Related terms such as "comprise" and "comprises" are to be interpreted in the same manner.

[1205] It is intended that reference to a range of numbers disclosed herein (for example, 1 to 10) also incorporates reference to all rational numbers within that range (for example, 1, 1.1, 2, 3, 3.9, 4, 5, 6, 6.5, 7, 8, 9 and 10) and also any range of rational numbers within that range (for example, 2 to 8, 1.5 to 5.5 and 3.1 to 4.7) and, therefore, all sub-ranges of all ranges expressly disclosed herein are hereby expressly disclosed. These are only examples of what is specifically intended and all possible combinations of numerical values between the lowest value and the highest value enumerated are to be considered to be expressly stated in this application in a similar manner.

[1206] This disclosure may also be said broadly to consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the specification of the application, individually or collectively, and any or all combinations of any two or more said parts, elements or features, and where specific integers are mentioned herein which have known equivalents in the art to which this disclosure relates, such known equivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as if individually set forth.

[1207] The disclosure consists in the foregoing and also envisages constructions of which the following gives examples only.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[1208] Specific embodiments and modifications thereof will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the detailed description herein having reference to the figures that follow, of which:

[1209] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary configuration patient interface of the present disclosure comprising a nasal interface.

[1210] Figure 2 shows an elevated front perspective view of the nasal interface of Figure 1.

[1211] Figure 3 shows a top perspective view of the nasal interface of Figure 1.

[1212] Figure 4 shows a rear perspective view (i.e. from the patient direction) of the nasal interface of Figure 1.

[1213] Figure 5 shows a top section perspective view of the nasal interface of Figure 1.

[1214] Figure 6 shows a top section perspective view of the nasal interface of Figure 1 with flow annotations.

[1215] Figure 7 shows an enhanced top section perspective view of the nasal interface of Figure 1.

[1216] Figure 8 shows a top perspective view of an exemplary configuration of a nasal interface of the present disclosure which may be the nasal interface of or for use with any of the features of the figures herein.

[1217] Figure 9 shows a rear perspective view of an interface body of an arrangement of the nasal interface of the present disclosure which may be the nasal interface of or for use with any of the features of the figures herein.

[1218] Figure 10 shows a top perspective view of the interface body of Figure 9.

[1219] Figure 11 shows a rear perspective view of the interface body of the nasal interface the present disclosure which may be the nasal interface of or for use with any of the features of the figures herein.

[1220] Figure 12 shows a top perspective view of the interface body of Figure 11.

[1221] Figure 13 shows a front perspective view (i.e. toward the patient) of the nasal interface of Figure 1 or may be a nasal interface of or for use with any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1222] Figure 14 shows a front perspective view of an exemplary configuration of a patient interface having a nasal interface of the present disclosure which may be the nasal interface of or for use with any of the features of the figures herein.

[1223] Figure 15 shows a front perspective view of a frame of the nasal interface of Figure 1 or may be a frame of a nasal interface of or for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1224] Figure 16 shows a rear perspective view of the frame of Figure 15.

[1225] Figure 17 shows a rear perspective view of an exemplary configuration of a nasal interface of the present disclosure which may be the nasal interface of or for use with any of the features of the figures herein and having the frame of Figures 15 or 16.

[1226] Figure 18 shows a front section perspective view of the nasal interface of Figure 1 or may be a nasal interface of or for use with any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1227] Figure 19 shows a front perspective detailed view the side arm of the nasal interface such as shown in Figures 14 to 17, or for use with any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1228] Figure 20 shows a front perspective detailed view the side arm of Figure 19.

[1229] Figure 21 shows a side perspective detailed view the side arm of Figure 19.

[1230] Figure 22 shows a side perspective detailed view the side arm of Figure 19.

[1231] Figure 23 shows a side perspective detailed view the side arm of Figure 19.

[1232] Figure 24 shows a top plan detailed view the side arm of Figure 19.

[1233] Figure 25 shows a top section perspective view of an alternative side arm of the nasal interface of Figure 1 or for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1234] Figure 26 shows a bottom angled transparent perspective view of the side arm of the nasal interface of Figure 25.

[1235] Figure 27 shows a top perspective view of the side arm of the nasal interface of Figure 25.

[1236] Figure 28 shows a rear transparent perspective view of the side arm of the nasal interface of Figure 25.

[1237] Figure 29 shows a top perspective view of the nasal interface of Figure 1, which may also be the nasal interface of or used with any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1238] Figure 30 shows an exemplary configuration of an alternative arrangement of a patient interface of the present disclosure which may be for use with any of the features of the figures herein.

[1239] Figure 31 shows rear perspective view of the nasal interface of the patient interface of Figure 30.

[1240] Figure 32 shows a front perspective view of the nasal interface of Figure 1 with a cap or for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1241] Figure 33 shows top perspective section view of the nasal interface of Figure 32.

[1242] Figure 34 shows a top perspective view of the nasal interface of Figure 1 with a cap or for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1243] Figure 35 shows top perspective section view of the nasal interface of Figure 34.

[1244] Figure 36 shows a rear perspective view of the nasal interface of Figure 1 with channels or for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1245] Figure 37 shows a rear perspective view of the nasal interface of Figure 1 with channels or for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1246] Figure 38 shows a rear perspective view of the nasal interface of Figure 1 with channels or for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1247] Figure 39 shows a front perspective view of the nasal interface of Figure 1 with channels or for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1248] Figure 40 shows a top section view of the nasal interface of Figure 1 with channels or for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1249] Figure 41 shows a rear perspective view of the nasal interface of Figure 1 with channels or for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1250] Figure 42 shows a rear perspective view of the nasal interface of Figure 1 with channels or for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1251] Figure 43 shows a rear perspective view of the nasal interface of Figure 1 with channels or for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1252] Figure 44 shows a top perspective view of the nasal interface of Figure 1 with channels or for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1253] Figure 45 shows a bottom perspective view of the nasal interface of Figure 1 with channels or for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1254] Figure 46 shows a top perspective view of the nasal interface of Figure 1 with channels or for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1255] Figure 47 shows a rear view of the nasal interface of Figure 1 with external cutouts or for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1256] Figure 48 shows a top view of the nasal interface of Figure 47.

[1257] Figure 49 shows a rear view of the nasal interface of Figure 1 with alternative external cutouts or for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1258] Figure 50 shows a rear perspective view of the nasal interface of Figure 1 with alternative external cutouts or for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1259] Figure 51 shows a rear perspective view of the nasal interface of Figure 50 with a single external cutout.

[1260] Figure 52 shows a rear perspective view of the nasal interface of Figure 1 with alternative external cutouts or for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1261] Figure 53 shows a rear perspective view of the nasal interface of Figure 1 with channels or for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1262] Figure 54 shows a rear perspective view of the nasal interface of Figure 1 with channels or for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1263] Figure 55 shows a rear perspective view of the nasal interface of Figure 1 with channels or for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1264] Figure 56 shows a top perspective view of the nasal interface of Figure 1 with a cutout or for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1265] Figure 57 shows a rear perspective view of the nasal interface of Figure 56.

[1266] Figure 58 shows a top perspective view of the nasal interface of Figure 1 with a tube or for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1267] Figure 59 shows a front perspective view of the nasal interface of Figure 1 with a tube or for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1268] Figure 60 shows a side cross-sectional view of an exemplary configuration of a nasal interface of the present disclosure which may be the nasal interface of or for use with any of the features of the figures herein.

[1269] Figure 61 shows a top perspective view of the nasal interface of Figure 60.

[1270] Figure 62 shows a cross-sectional view of the nasal interface of Figure 61 .

[1271] Figure 63 shows a side cross-sectional view of the nasal interface of Figure62 in use.

[1272] Figure 64 shows a rear perspective view of an exemplary configuration of a nasal interface of the present disclosure which may be the nasal interface of or for use with any of the features of the figures herein.

[1273] Figure 65 shows a top perspective view of the nasal interface of Figure 64.

[1274] Figure 66 shows a side cross-sectional view of the nasal interface of Figure 64.

[1275] Figure 67 shows a rear perspective view of an exemplary configuration of a nasal interface of the present disclosure with a raised portion which may be the nasal interface of or for use with any of the features of the figures herein.

[1276] Figure 68 shows a rear perspective view of an exemplary configuration of a nasal interface of of the present disclosure with a recessed portion or for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1277] Figure 69 shows a top cross-sectional view of the nasal interface of Figure 68.

[1278] Figure 70 shows a top perspective view of an exemplary configuration of a nasal interface of the present disclosure or for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1279] Figure 71 shows a rear perspective view of the nasal interface of Figure 70.

[1280] Figure 72 shows a bottom perspective view of an exemplary configuration of a nasal interface of the present disclosure or for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1281] Figure 73 shows a rear perspective view of the nasal interface of Figure 72.

[1282] Figure 74 shows a side perspective view of an exemplary configuration of a nasal interface of the present disclosure or for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1283] Figure 75 shows a top cross-sectional view of an exemplary configuration of a nasal interface of the present disclosure or for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1284] Figure 76 shows a bottom perspective view of an exemplary configuration of a nasal interface of the present disclosure or for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1285] Figure 77 shows a front view of an exemplary configuration of a nasal interface of the present disclosure with an alternative configuration for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1286] Figure 78 shows a top plan view of a frame of Figure 77.

[1287] Figure 79 shows a front perspective view of a frame of Figure 77.

[1288] Figure 80 shows a front perspective view of an exemplary configuration of a nasal interface of the present disclosure with an alternative configuration for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1289] Figure 81 shows a top rear perspective view of a frame of Figure 80.

[1290] Figure 82 shows a rear perspective view of the interface body of Figure 80.

[1291] Figure 83 shows a side sectional view of the interface body of Figure 80.

[1292] Figure 84 shows a front view of an exemplary configuration of a nasal interface of the present disclosure with an alternative configuration for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1293] Figure 85 shows a side sectional view of an exemplary configuration of a nasal interface of the present disclosure with an alternative configuration for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1294] Figure 86 shows a rear perspective view of the interface body of Figure 85.

[1295] Figure 87 shows a bottom cross-sectional view of an exemplary configuration of a nasal interface of the present disclosure with an alternative configuration for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1296] Figure 88 shows a rear perspective view of the nasal interface of Figure 87.

[1297] Figure 89 shows a front perspective view of the nasal interface of Figure 87.

[1298] Figure 90 shows a side cross-sectional view of an exemplary configuration of a nasal interface of the present disclosure with an alternative configuration for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1299] Figure 91 shows a rear perspective view of the nasal interface of Figure 90.

[1300] Figure 92 shows a front perspective view of an exemplary configuration of a nasal interface of the present disclosure with a living hinge for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1301] Figure 93 shows a detailed rear view of a configuration of a living hinge of Figure 92.

[1302] Figure 94 shows a detailed rear view of a configuration of a living hinge of Figure 92.

[1303] Figure 95 shows a detailed rear view of a configuration of a living hinge of Figure 92.

[1304] Figure 96 shows a top view of a configuration of the nasal interface of Figure 92.

[1305] Figure 97 shows a top perspective view of a configuration of a living hinge of Figure 92.

[1306] Figure 98 shows a perspective view of a headgear connecting portion for use with the nasal interface of Figure 1 or for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1307] Figure 99 shows a detailed perspective view of the headgear connecting portion of Figure 98 connected to a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1308] Figure 100 shows a perspective view of an alternative headgear connecting portion to that of Figure 98 and Figure 99 comprising a tube retainer.

[1309] Figure 101 shows a top view of the nasal interface of the present disclosure comprising attachment buttons for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1310] Figure 102 shows a front perspective detailed view of a configuration of the attachment button of Figure 101 engaging with a button hole of a headgear.

[1311] Figure 103 shows a side perspective view of a configuration of the attachment button of Figure 101 engaging with a button hole of a headgear.

[1312] Figure 104 shows a bottom perspective view of an exemplary configuration of a nasal interface of the present disclosure with an alternative configuration for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1313] Figure 105 shows a top perspective view of t an exemplary configuration of a nasal interface of the present disclosure with an alternative configuration for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1314] Figure 106 shows a top perspective view of an exemplary configuration of a nasal interface of the present disclosure with an alternative configuration for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1315] Figure 107 shows a top view of an exemplary configuration of a nasal interface of the present disclosure including cheek pads for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1316] Figure 108 shows a detailed top perspective view of the cheek pads of Figure 107.

[1317] Figure 109 shows a side schematic view of an alternative cheek pad to Figure 107.

[1318] Figure 110 shows a side schematic view of an alternative cheek pad to Figure 107 with a hooking portion.

[1319] Figure 111 shows a side schematic view of an alternative cheek pad to Figure 107.

[1320] Figure 112 shows a top perspective view of an alternative hooking portion to Figure 110.

[1321] Figure 113 shows a top perspective view of an alternative hooking portion to Figure 110.

[1322] Figure 114 shows a front view of an exemplary configuration of a nasal interface of the present disclosure with an alternative configuration for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1323] Figure 115 shows a top perspective view of an exemplary configuration of a patient interface of the present disclosure comprising a nasal interface and including a securing member for use with a patient interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1324] Figure 116 shows a front view of the securing member of Figure 115.

[1325] Figure 117 shows a front view of an alternative securing member of Figure115.

[1326] Figure 118 shows a front view of an alternative securing member of Figure 115.

[1327] Figure 119 shows a front view of an alternative securing member of Figure 115.

[1328] Figure 120 shows a front view of an alternative securing member of Figure 115.

[1329] Figure 121 shows a top perspective view of the patient interface including the securing member of Figure 120.

[1330] Figure 122 shows a front view of an alternative securing member of Figure 115.

[1331] Figure 123 shows a front view of buckles for use with the patient interface of Figure 1 or for use with a patient interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1332] Figure 124 shows a front perspective view of an exemplary configuration of a nasal interface of the present disclosure including a recess for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1333] Figure 125 shows a front perspective view of the nasal interface of Figure 124 including a cap for the recess.

[1334] Figure 126 shows a front perspective view of an exemplary configuration of a nasal interface of the present disclosure with an alternative configuration for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1335] Figure 127 shows a bottom cross-sectional view of the nasal interface of Figure 126.

[1336] Figure 128 shows a partial front perspective view of an exemplary configuration of a nasal interface of the present disclosure with an alternative configuration for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1337] Figure 129 shows a front perspective view of an exemplary configuration of a nasal interface of the present disclosure with an alternative configuration for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1338] Figure 130 shows a front perspective view of the nasal interface of Figure 129.

[1339] Figure 131 shows a front perspective view of a tube retainer for use with the nasal interface of Figure 1 or for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1340] Figure 132 shows a front cross-sectional view of an exemplary configuration of a nasal interface of the present disclosure including a structural support for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1341] Figure 133 shows a front cross-sectional view of an exemplary configuration of a nasal interface of the present disclosure including a structural support for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein..

[1342] Figure 134 shows a lower front cross-sectional view of an exemplary configuration of a nasal interface of the present disclosure including a structural support for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein..

[1343] Figure 135 shows a front perspective view of an exemplary configuration of a nasal interface of the present disclosure including lateral protrusions for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1344] Figure 136 shows a rear perspective view of an exemplary configuration of a nasal interface of the present disclosure including lateral notches and tabs for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1345] Figure 137 shows a top perspective sectional view of an exemplary configuration of a nasal interface of the present disclosure including a polarised groove for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1346] Figure 138 shows a top perspective sectional view of an exemplary configuration of a nasal interface of the present disclosure including a polarised groove for use with a nasal interface of any of the features of the other figures herein.

[1347] Figure 139 shows a front view of an interface body of the nasal interfaces of Figures 137 and 138.

[1348] Figure 140 shows schematically a respiratory therapy system configured to provide a respiratory therapy to a patient.

[1349] Figure 141 shows a block diagram of a control system interacting with and / or providing control and direction to components of a respiratory therapy system.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[1350] Patient interfaces are used for delivering respiratory gases to airways of a patient. The patient interfaces of the present disclosure comprise a nasal interface that delivers a flow of gases to a patient. In some arrangements, nasal delivery elements, such as nasal prongs, are inserted into the nose of a patient to deliver the required gases. The nasal delivery elements of the present disclosure are non-sealing at the nose to deliver the respiratory gases. A non-sealing nasal delivery element allows for some movement of respiratory gases between the respective nasal passageway and the outside environment, along an exterior of the nasal delivery element. In some arrangements, the non-sealing nasal delivery element is substantially spaced from the internal skin of the naris or has minimal contact with the naris. The non-sealing nasal interface may also be exclusive of sealing with the respective naris of the patient in use. A nasal interface with non-sealing nasal delivery elements reduces the pressure difference in the patient's respiratory tract and lungs relative to standard atmospheric pressure. This can prevent tissue damage to the airways and / or lungs due to pressure differences. A non-sealing interface may also be more comfortable to a patient. Further a non-sealing interface may be used where a patient is being moved to self-breathing after high-flow therapy, for instance. The nonsealing nasal interface is such that there is no occlusion or, in some arrangements, partial occlusion of the nares by the nasal delivery elements. In some arrangements, at least one of the nasal delivery elements may partly occlude the nasal passage through the naris, but will still allow the flow of gases between the respective nasal passageway and the outside environment, along an exterior of the nasal delivery element.

[1351] Disclosed is a system to deliver gases to a patient through a nasal interface.

[1352] In some arrangements, an asymmetric flow of respiratory gases is provided to the patient. That is, a differential gases flow at the first and second nasal delivery elements. This allows an asymmetrical or asymmetric flow to be delivered through the nasal interface to both nares. Asymmetrical flow as described herein refers to a flow that differs within the nasal interface or within the nose. In this way, a different flow may bedelivered by each nasal delivery element. An asymmetrical flow also includes substantially unidirectional flow or partial unidirectional flow.

[1353] A nasal interface that provides asymmetrical flow may improve clearance of dead space in the upper airways, e.g. by flushing out CO2 built up in the airways at the end of expiration.

[1354] Total unidirectional flow is where all flow enters one naris by a nasal delivery element and exiting via the other naris via a nasal delivery element or venting to the atmosphere. Partial unidirectional flow is where flow enters the nose via both nares and leaves the nose from one naris, flow that enters the nose through one naris and leave the nose via both nares, or different proportions of flow that enter the nose through both nares and / or different proportions of flow that may leave the nose through both nares (and optionally the mouth). In non-sealing interfaces, the asymmetric flow with likely be partial unidirectional flow as inhalation or expiration includes atmospheric air. Partial unidirectional flow may provide improved clearance of anatomical dead space as the air is flushed from the upper airways. Partial unidirectional flow may be more comfortable than total unidirectional flow. The partially unidirectional flow may reduce turbulence in the patient's nasal cavity, which could also improve comfort. A reduction in turbulence can also reduce noise in the nasal cannula providing a quieter interface.

[1355] If there is a pressure differential between the first and second nasal delivery elements, during inspiration the first nasal delivery element will receive more gases flow from a gases inlet than the second nasal delivery element. During expiration, the second nostril associated with the second nasal delivery element will expel more gases flow than the first nostril associated with the first nasal delivery element. The pressure differential between the first and second nasal delivery elements can change depending on whether the patient's breathing cycle is in an inspiration phase or expiration phase.

[1356] The asymmetrical flow assessment may be applied over a suitable period. For example, the asymmetrical flow assessment may be applied over one breath cycle of the patient or alternatively over a different number of breath cycles of the patient.

[1357] Figure 1 shows an exemplary patient interface 1 that comprises a nasal interface 100 with nasal delivery elements comprising a first nasal delivery element 111 and a second nasal delivery element 112. The nasal interface 100 is shown in Figures 1 to 139 and the present description applies.

[1358] The nasal interface 100 provides a patient with a delivery of flow-controlled, optionally high humidity, gas flow to the patient's nasal cavity / nares. In some configurations, the nasal interface 100 is adapted to deliver a high flow of gases over a- I l l - wide flow range (e.g. about 8 Ipm, or higher depending on other therapy applications, perhaps such as 10 - 50 Ipm, 20 - 40 Ipm, or higher). The flow rates may be bias flows averaged over time. In some configurations, the nasal interface 100 is adapted to deliver a lower flow of gases. The flow is dependent on pressure so it can fluctuate depending on different breathing pressures and set pressures. Wherein set pressure(s) relates to the therapy and / or patient pressure(s) which are maintained by an ancillary respiratory therapy apparatus when used in conjunction with the nasal interface of the disclosure.

[1359] In some configurations, the nasal interface 100 can be used to provide asymmetric continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy. Pressure is created in the patient's airways and controlled, but there is also asymmetric or partial unidirectional flow in the patient's airways. This provides pressure therapy with flushing.

[1360] The nasal interface 100 comprises a face mount part or interface body 110 (or 110a) part including the pair of hollow nasal delivery elements 111 and 112, integrally moulded with or removably attached to a main body of the interface body 110. The nasal interface 100 comprises a gases manifold 120 part or frame 120 (or 120a) that comprises a gases inlet port 121 (or gases port 121 I gases inlet 121). The frame 120 may be removably attached or integrally moulded to a respiratory conduit 300.

[1361] The interface body 110 may be connectable to or engageable with the frame 120, or may be integrally formed or permanently engaged with the frame 120. The interface body 110 may refer to the interface body 110 including the frame 120 in some arrangements. The connecting or engaging of the interface body 110 with the frame 120 brings the first nasal delivery element 111 and the second nasal delivery element 112 into fluid communication with the gases inlet port 121 such that the first nasal delivery element111 is more proximal the gases inlet port 121 and the second nasal delivery 112 element is more distal the gases inlet port 121.

[1362] In Figure 1, the frame 120 is partially positioned within the interface body 110 and thus obscured.

[1363] The interface body 110 may be formed from a soft, flexible material such as silicone, thermoplastic elastomers, or other polymers known in the art. In some arrangements it may be referred to as a cushion. The nasal delivery elements 111 and112 may be supple and may be formed from a sufficiently thin layer of silicone or other suitable material to achieve this property. The interface body 110 and nasal delivery elements 111, 112 may, for example, be formed from an elastomeric material that is able to confirm to the geometry of a patient's nostril and / or cheek and provide an effective pneumatic seal.

[1364] The frame 120 may be formed from a relatively harder material such as Polycarbonate, a High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) or any other suitable plastics material known in the art. The interface body 110 provides a soft interfacing component to the patient for comfortably delivering the flow of gases through the nasal delivery elements 111 and 112, while the frame 120 fluidly couples the respiratory conduit 300 to the nasal delivery elements 111 and 112 of the interface body 110.

[1365] The nasal delivery elements 111 and 112 are substantially hollow.

[1366] In the arrangement of Figure 1, the first and second nasal delivery elements 111, 112 have a different shape and / or configuration from each other, i.e. may be asymmetrical. In some arrangements described herein, the first and second nasal delivery elements 111, 112 have the same shape and configuration as each other, i.e. may be symmetrical.

[1367] The interface body 110 is shaped to generally follow the contours of a patient's face around the upper lip area. The interface body 110 is moulded or pre-formed to be able to conform to and / or is pliable to adapt, accommodate and / or correspond with the contours of the user's face, in the region of the face where the nasal interface is to be located.

[1368] The interface body 110 comprises a base portion 118 from which the nasal delivery elements 111 and 112 extend. The base portion 118 is part of the main body of the interface body 110.

[1369] The base portion 118 is arranged to locate between a patient's face and the frame 120 in use. The base portion 118 may act as a cushion to avoid the frame 120 from touching the patient's face.

[1370] In the arrangement shown, the interface body 110 comprises two side arms 101, 102 that extend laterally from either side of the base portion 118 or the interface body 110.

[1371] In the arrangement shown in Figure 1, the side arms 101, 102 are integrally formed with the frame 120. One side arm 101 is formed as part of the frame 120 where the gases inlet port 121 is formed. Part of the frame 120 forms a feature that sits external to the interface body 120 and surrounds the gases inlet port 121 and extends laterally to form the side arm 101.

[1372] The other side arm 102 is formed as part of the frame 120 where the other gases port 122 is formed. Part of the frame 120 forms a feature that sits external to the interface body 120 and at the gases port 122 (and as described with reference to Figure2 below, forms or is the bias flow vent 340) and extends laterally to form the other side arm 102.

[1373] The side arms 101, 102 may alternatively be formed as part of the base portion 118 or interface body 110 but may alternatively be separate parts.

[1374] Whilst one arrangement of side arms 101, 102 is shown in Figure 1, other arrangements are described herein.

[1375] The nasal interface 100 comprises respective headgear connecting portions 1005, 1006. The headgear connecting portions 1005, 1006 are intermediary connectors between the headgear 200 and the side arms 101, 102. Therefore, in some arrangements, each headgear connecting portion 1005, 1006 connects at one end to the side arm 101, 102 and at its other end to the headgear 200.

[1376] In some configurations, the nasal delivery elements 111, 112 extend generally rearwardly from the frame interface body 110 or base portion 118.

[1377] Whilst a single feature may be shown in the figures, it will be appreciated that "at least one" of these features may be present. In some arrangements, at least one or a plurality of features may be present to provide the overall feature. In particular, whilst the gases inlet 121 is shown in the figures, a plurality of gases inlet ports 121 (and outlet ports 122) may be provided or a plurality of inlets forming a common inlet port 121 may be provided. Therefore, reference to "a" or "the" inlet port 121 is not intended to be limited to the singular and may be taken to be at least one inlet port 121. In some arrangements, two inlet gases ports 121 are provided.

[1378] The interface body 110 is generally tubular in shape comprising a gases port 121, 122 proximal at least one side thereof, and generally extending from a front of the nasal interface 100. At least one of the gases ports 121, 122 may be the gases inlet port 121 described herein. In some configurations, the gases port 121, 122 may optionally be positioned at either side thereof. At least one of the gases ports 121, 122 may be removably attachable to a respiratory conduit 300, such as via a threaded engagement but alternatively via a snap-fit or any other type of coupling known in the art. That enables the at least one of the gases ports 121, 122 to act as a gases inlet 121 for the interface body 110 and thereby for the nasal interface 100. Alternatively, in some configurations, the port 121, 122 may be fixedly coupled or integrally formed with a respiratory conduit 300.

[1379] Flow enters the nasal interface 100 through the gases port 111, 112 and travels through the interface body 110 in a direction that is transverse to the direction theflow is intended to travel into the first and second nasal delivery elements 111, 112. This forms the gases flow channel.

[1380] The gases inlet is in fluid communication with the respiratory conduit 300.

[1381] In some configurations, the respiratory conduit 300 has an internal diameter of between about 12 mm and about 23 mm, optionally more than about 12 mm and up to about 23 mm, optionally more than about 12 mm and up to about 22 mm, optionally more than about 12 mm and up to about 21 mm, optionally more than about12 mm and up to about 20 mm, optionally more than about 12 mm and up to about 19 mm, optionally more than about 12 mm and up to about 18 mm, optionally between about13 mm and about 17 mm, optionally between about 14 mm and about 16 mm, optionally about 12 mm, optionally about 13 mm, optionally about 14 mm, optionally about 15 mm, optionally about 16 mm, optionally about 17 mm, optionally about 18 mm, optionally about 19 mm, optionally about 20 mm, optionally about 21 mm, optionally about 22 mm, optionally about 23 mm, or optionally any value between any two of those values.

[1382] Referring to Figure 2, a detailed view of the nasal interface of Figure 1 is shown. The headgear connecting portions 1005, 1006 and headgear 200 are omitted for the explanation. Otherwise, the description provided in reference to Figure 1 applies for features with like reference signs.

[1383] The conduit 300 is connected to the gases inlet port 121 via a connector. The connector may be configured to reduce turbulent flow of gases passing through the conduit 300 into the gases inlet port 121.

[1384] In some arrangements, the connector is a gases delivery elbow 351. The gases delivery elbow 351 forms an angled interface between the conduit 300 and the gases inlet port 121. Therefore, the gases delivery elbow 351 comprises a first end defining a gases delivery portion 352. The gases delivery portion 352 couples to the gases inlet port 121. In some arrangements, the gases delivery portion 352 defines the gases inlet port 121. At its opposing end, the gases delivery elbow 351 comprises a gases receipt portion 353. The gases receipt portion 353 is coupled to the conduit 300 and is configured to receive respiratory gases therethrough.

[1385] The gases delivery elbow 351 enables the directing of the conduit 300 or the directing of gases flowing from the conduit into the interface body 110.

[1386] The gases delivery portion 352 extends in a first direction, and the gases receipt portion 353 extends in a second direction. In the illustrated arrangement, the gases delivery elbow 351 forms an approximately right-angled bend. Therefore, in some arrangements, the first direction is approximately 90 degrees to the second direction. Thegases delivery elbow 351 directs the conduit 300 laterally from the side of the frame 120. This arrangement reduces conduit interference with the patient mouth to allow for functions such as talking, eating or drinking. The gases delivery elbow 351 may also contribute to reducing turbulent flow, this may be in part due to the angle formed.

[1387] The gases delivery elbow 351 may be formed as part of the frame 120, or may be formed as a separate part. The gases delivery elbow 351 may be removably or permanently connected to the frame 120 and / or conduit 300. The gases delivery elbow 351 may be formed to snap-in, or screw into the frame 120. The gases delivery elbow 351 may be swivelable to allow different orientations.

[1388] As shown, the nasal interface 100 comprises an interface body 110 comprising a gases flow channel (125, see Figure 6), a first nasal delivery element 111 in fluid communication with the gases flow channel 125 and configured to deliver gases to a first naris of the patient, a second nasal delivery element 112 in fluid communication with the gases flow channel 125 and configured to deliver gases to a second naris of the patient, a gases inlet port 121 in the interface body 110 and in fluid communication with the gases flow channel 125, the gases inlet port 110 for receiving incoming respiratory gases from a gases supply conduit 300 and enabling the incoming respiratory gases to be delivered into the interface body 110, wherein the nasal interface 110 is configured to create an asymmetric flow of gases at a patient's nasal airways. The nasal interface 100 optionally includes or comprises any of the features described herein with reference to Figures 1 to 139.

[1389] In some arrangements, at least one of the first nasal delivery element 111 and the second nasal delivery element 112 is a non-sealing nasal delivery element 111, 112.

[1390] Referring to Figure 2, the nasal interface 100 comprises a bias flow vent 340. The bias flow vent 340 is more proximal to the second nasal delivery element 112 and more distal to the first nasal delivery element 111. In some arrangements the bias flow vent 340 is approximately in a mirror position to the gases inlet port 121 (with a sagittal or parasagittal plane of symmetry).

[1391] The bias flow vent 340 enables gases to leave the interface body 110 through the bias flow vent 340. In some arrangements, the gases include expiratory gases expelled from the patient which pass through the first and second nasal delivery elements 111, 112.

[1392] The bias flow vent 340 is downstream from the first nasal delivery element 111. The upstream end of the interface body 110 corresponds to the position of the gasesinlet 121. The respiratory gases delivered to the interface body 110 passes the first delivery element 111 (where some gases are delivered therethrough) and the second gases delivery element 112 and to the bias flow vent 340. This forms the gases flow channel 125.

[1393] In some arrangements, the bias flow vent 340 may comprise apertures 342 where the apertures 342 are formed to allow an expiratory gas flow therethrough. In addition, in some arrangements, the bias flow vent 340 comprises a diffuser 341 to diffuse gases flowing through the bias flow vent 340. The diffuser may mitigate respiratory contaminants being released through the bias flow vent 340.

[1394] The bias flow vent 340 may be formed as part of the nasal interface 100, and in some arrangements as part of frame 120. The bias flow vent 340 is formed over the gases outlet port 122 as previously described herein. In some arrangements, the bias flow vent 340 is the gases outlet port 122. However, for purposes of explanation, the gases outlet port 122 is considered the region of the interface body 110 where gases pass to the bias flow vent 340. However, the bias flow vent 340 may be formed with or attached to the frame 120 such that the bias flow vent 340 is irremovably attached. This may result in there being no gases outlet port 122 in use.

[1395] In the arrangement of Figure 2, one side arm 102 is formed as part of the bias flow vent 340. Therefore, the bias flow vent 340 is part of the frame 120 that sits external to the interface body 120 and extends laterally to form the side arm 102.

[1396] A benefit of the bias flow vent 340 is to reduce noise by allowing the air to travel through this on expiration, reducing the noise generated at the nostril openings.

[1397] As described herein, the nasal delivery elements 111, 112 are non-sealing. This may be termed as expiratory air or gases may pass around the nasal delivery elements 111, 112 and not necessarily through the interface body 110. However, the bias flow vent 340 may provide a safety benefit to ensure that gases are able to escape from the interface body 110 in the case of high pressure created in the interface body (such as the nasal delivery elements 111, 112 being improperly positioned).

[1398] The bias flow vent 340 may also reduce expiratory pressure. The expiratory pressure may be altered by changing the flow permitted through the bias flow vent 340 by variation the area of the apertures 342 or diffuser 341.

[1399] Where a diffuser 341 is used, the diffuser 341 may comprise a diffuser material. The diffuser material may comprise any suitable material, such as one or more of non-woven fibrous material (including polymer fibres), open cell foam, sintered polymer. Other materials include: a combination of nylon mesh with diffuser material, thinplastic sheets with holes cut into it, foaming material, a RT020 electrostatic filter, a plastic porous material (like a woven or sintered nylon), woven mesh (Nylon, polyester and polypropylene, polyethylene) or a pleated filter. Although a filter material may be used in the diffuser 341, it may be beneficial to not use a filter material to reduce or avoid liquid build-up in the diffuser 341. In some configurations, the diffuser 341 may have an antimicrobial material to reduce bacteria in the exhaled air.

[1400] The aperture 342 and diffuser 341 may be combined.

[1401] Referring to Figure 3, a top view of the nasal interface of Figure 2 is shown.Referring to Figure 4, a view from the patient direction of the nasal interface 100 of Figure 2 is shown. As with Figure 2, the headgear connecting portions 1005, 1006 and headgear 200 are omitted for the explanation. Otherwise, the description provided in reference to Figure 1 and Figure 2 applies for features with like reference signs in Figures 3 and 4.

[1402] As described, the interface body 110 comprises the first delivery element 111 (or a first delivery element portion) in fluid communication with the gases flow channel (125 - see Figure 6). The first delivery element 111 is configured to substantially deliver gases to or from the first naris of the patient. The first delivery element 111 is non-sealing. This may result in the non-sealing first delivery element 111 allowing for some movement of respiratory gases between the outside of the first delivery element 111 and the nasal passageways.

[1403] The interface body 110 comprises the second delivery element 112 (or a second delivery element portion) in fluid communication with the gases flow channel. The second delivery element 112 is configured to substantially deliver gases to or from the second naris of the patient. The second delivery element 112 is non-sealing. This may result in the non-sealing second delivery element 112 allowing for some movement of respiratory gases between the outside of the first delivery element 112 and the nasal passageways.

[1404] Whilst the first delivery element 111 and second delivery element 112 are described with reference to the positioning in the figures, e.g., from left or from right, in some arrangements, the order is interchangeable and the description of said features are interchangeable.

[1405] Whilst the term 'deliver' or 'delivery' is used in the description of the first and second delivery elements 111, 112, it will be appreciated that the delivery is not limited to a particular direction of flow, i.e. to or from the naris and may be bidirectional.

[1406] Referring to Figure 3, the first delivery element 111 and the second delivery element 112 are different sizes. In particular, the first delivery element 111 is relativelylarger than the second delivery element 112. Referring to Figure 4, the relatively larger first delivery element 111 has a larger cross-sectional area than the cross-sectional area of the second delivery element 112. A flow of gases is directly related to the cross-sectional area. In some arrangements, the larger relative cross-sectional area of the first delivery element 111 encourages a larger proportion of the respiratory flow delivered to the interface body 110 from the conduit 300 to pass through the first delivery element 111. This larger flow contributes to an asymmetrical flow at the patient's nasal airways. The larger proportion maybe be more than 50% of the total flow. In some arrangements, the larger proportion may be more than 60% of the total flow. In some arrangements the larger proportion is more than 70% of the total flow.

[1407] First illustrated and labelled in Figure 4, the first nasal delivery element 111 comprises a first outlet 1111a (or first gases outlet 1111a). The first outlet 1111a is for allowing gases into and out of the interface body 110 via the first delivery element 111. The first outlet 1111a is at an end of the first delivery element 111. Likewise, the second nasal delivery element 112 comprises a second outlet 1112a. The second outlet 1112a for allowing gases into and out of the interface body 110 via the second delivery element 112. The second outlet 1112a is at an end of the second delivery element 112.

[1408] The first outlet 1111a has a larger diameter than the second outlet 1112a.

[1409] Whilst it is noted that as the nasal delivery elements 111, 112 are nonsealing such that a patient may drawn air from external to the nasal interface 100, as respiratory gases are delivered to the interface body 110, this promotes the inhalation of the delivered respiratory gases. Further, the asymmetric flow, such as due to the relatively larger cross-section of the first delivery element 111, is encouraged by the nasal interface 100.

[1410] Referring to Figure 5, a top-sectional view of the nasal interface of Figure 3 is shown. The headgear connecting portions 1005, 1006, headgear 200 and conduit 300 are omitted for the explanation. Otherwise, the description provided in reference to Figures 1 to 4 applies for features with like reference signs in Figure 5.

[1411] The inlet gases port 121 defines an inlet axis 167. Likewise, the gases delivery portion 352 defines the same axis. The inlet axis 167 corresponds to a gases flow direction through the inlet gases port 121 1 gases delivery portion 352. This inlet axis 167 is congruent with the first direction described above with reference to the gases delivery portion 352. This may result in the inlet axis 167 passing through the opening of the first gases port 121.

[1412] The first delivery element 111 defines a first axis which aligns with the inlet axis 167 in the present embodiment. Therefore, an angle between the inlet axis and the first axis may be 0 degrees. Accordingly, the first delivery element 111 sits along the same inlet axis 167. This may result in the first axis 167 passes through the opening of the first delivery element 111 in some arrangements. This may also be termed a co-axial arrangement.

[1413] In some configurations, such an arrangement may be beneficial as the gases flow from the inlet gases port 121 is primarily directed toward a first naris of the patient via the first delivery element 111. This may create or contribute to asymmetric flow in some arrangements.

[1414] In some alternative arrangements, the gases inlet port 121 is arranged to (at least substantially) direct the incoming respiratory gases towards the first nasal delivery element 111. Additionally, or alternatively, the gases flow from the inlet gases port 121 substantially points toward the first delivery element 111. Alternatively, or additionally, in some arrangements, the gases flow from the inlet gases port 121 is directed or arranged such that flow therethrough is directed substantially toward the first delivery element 111. In either or all arrangements, the gases flow from the inlet gases port 121 may be primarily directed toward a first naris of the patient via the first delivery element 111.

[1415] Such an arrangement may be additional or alternative to the co-axial arrangement of the first axis 167. The co-axial arrangement may (substantially) direct the incoming respiratory gases towards the first nasal delivery element 111.

[1416] Whilst the terms "substantially points" or "substantially directs" are used, other terms such as "substantially aims", "guides" or "is orientated towards" may be used to define the various arrangements. Where appropriate, in some arrangements, the term may mean there is a direct overlap with the outlet of the inlet gases port 121 and the opening of the first delivery element 111 (or bias flow vent 340 and second delivery element 112). Such an overlap may mean the perimeter of the inlet gases port 121 (or bias flow vent 340) overlaps with the perimeter of the opening of the first delivery element 111 (or second delivery element 112) when viewed along an axis line of either one. This definition may be applied to this feature throughout the description.

[1417] In some arrangements, the inlet gases port 121 and first delivery element 111 are not aligned on the same first axis 167. However, as described above, the inlet gases port 121 substantially points, directs or is arranged such that flow therethrough is directed substantially toward the first delivery element 111.

[1418] The first axis 167 is defined with reference to the first delivery element 111 or the first gases outlet 1111a. Therefore, this may also be termed as the first gases outlet 1111a defines a first axis 167.

[1419] In Figure 5, the outlet gases port 122 defines an outlet axis 168. As noted, outlet gases port 122 may not be present in use. Therefore, bias flow vent 340 defines the same axis 168. The outlet axis 168 corresponds to a gases flow direction through the bias flow vent 340.

[1420] The second delivery element 112 defines a second axis, which is aligned with the outlet axis 168 in the present embodiment. Therefore, the angle between the outlet axis 168 and the second axis may be 0 degrees. Accordingly, the second delivery element 112 sits along the same second axis 168. Therefore, the second axis 168 passes through the opening of the second delivery element 112. This may be termed co-axial as defined above.

[1421] Note that references to the first axis 167 and second axis 168 in this specification are to the aligned axis of the present embodiment.

[1422] In some alternative arrangements, as described with reference to the first nasal delivery element 111, the second delivery element 112 is arranged to direct flow therethrough toward the bias flow vent 340. This may be an alternative or additional arrangement to the co-axial arrangement.

[1423] In some configurations, such an arrangement may be beneficial as the gases flow from the second naris of a patient is primarily directed toward out of the interface body 110 through the bias flow vent 340.

[1424] As with the first axis 167, in some arrangements, the bias flow vent 340 and second delivery element 112 are not aligned on the same second axis 168. However, as described above with reference to the first axis 167, the second delivery element 112 substantially points, directs or is arranged such that flow therethrough is directed substantially toward the bias flow vent 340.

[1425] The second axis 168 is defined with reference to the second delivery element 112 or the second gases outlet 1112a. Therefore, this may be termed as, the second gases outlet 1112a defines a second axis 168.

[1426] In view of the above axis lines, it will be appreciated that if the first axis 167 and second axis 168 were parallel, then the first and second delivery elements 111, 112 must be aligned on the same plane as they are parallel with the first axis 167 and second axis 168 (assuming no stepped arrangement in the interface body 100, i.e. the planes are non-intersecting). In the arrangement shown in Figure 5, the first axis 167 andsecond axis 168 intersect. Therefore, first and second delivery elements 111, 112 are nonparallel and / or arranged on different or se...

Claims

1. CLAIMS:

1. A nasal interface comprising: an interface body comprising a gases flow channel, a first nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a first naris of the patient, a second nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a second naris of the patient, wherein at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is a non-sealing nasal delivery element, a gases inlet port in the interface body and in fluid communication with the gases flow channel, the gases inlet port for receiving incoming respiratory gases from a gases supply conduit and enabling the incoming respiratory gases to be delivered into the interface body, and a bias flow vent for enabling exhaled gases to be expelled out of the interface body, wherein the nasal interface is configured to create an asymmetric flow of gases at a patient's nasal airways.

2. The nasal interface according to claim 1, wherein the gases inlet port is substantially directed toward the first nasal delivery element.

3. The nasal interface according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the gases inlet port is arranged to direct a larger proportion of the incoming respiratory gases towards the first nasal delivery element than the second nasal delivery element.

4. The nasal interface according to any preceding claim, wherein the gases inlet port is proximal to the first nasal delivery element and distal from the second nasal delivery element to create or contribute to the asymmetric flow.

5. The nasal interface according to any preceding claim, wherein the nasal interface is configured to receive the incoming respiratory gases from the gases inlet port and to provide, from the incoming respiratory gases, a first flow stream of gases configured to be substantially provided to the first nasal delivery element and a second flow stream of gases configured to be substantially provided to the second nasal delivery element, andis configured to direct more of the incoming respiratory gases to the first flow stream of gases than to the second flow stream of gases to contribute to the asymmetric flow.

6. The nasal interface according to any preceding claim, wherein the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element lie substantially in a plane of the interface body that is transverse to a first midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar with the sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

7. The nasal interface according to any preceding claim, wherein the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element are symmetrical about the midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar with the sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

8. The nasal interface according to any preceding claim, wherein the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element are each substantially straight.

9. The nasal interface according to any preceding claim, wherein one of the nasal delivery elements is larger than the other of the nasal delivery elements.

10. The nasal interface according to claim 9, wherein the first nasal delivery element is larger than the second nasal delivery element.

11. The nasal interface according to claim 9 or claim 10, wherein the cross section of the internal flow area of the larger nasal delivery element is greater than that of the other nasal delivery element.

12. The nasal interface according to any preceding claim, wherein the interface body comprises a pair of side arms that extend in opposed laterally outward directions, optionally, the pair of side arms are configured to be moveable to follow the contours of the face, optionally, the side arms are formed of a flexible material, optionally, wherein each side arm comprises either a ball portion or a socket portion of a ball and socket joint configured to moveably connect to a corresponding ball or socket portion on a headgear connecting portion for connecting to a portion of a headgear.

13. The nasal interface according to any preceding claim, wherein the bias flow vent comprises an aperture or an aperture and a diffuser.

14. The nasal interface according to any preceding claim, the nasal interface comprising at least one baffle extending along the gases flow channel from a region corresponding generally to the inlet gases port toward a region corresponding generally to the bias flow vent.

15. The nasal interface according to claim 14, wherein the at least one baffle is arranged such that when respiratory gases are delivered into the interface body through the gases inlet port, they pass along the baffle to the first nasal delivery element and along the baffle to the second nasal delivery element, and such that exhaled gases substantially pass along the baffle to the bias flow vent.

16. The nasal interface according to claim 14 or claim 15, comprising a plurality of the spaced apart baffles extending along the gases flow channel.

17. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 14 to 16, wherein the at least one baffle extends across the interface body, a frame portion, or both an interface body and a frame portion of the nasal interface.

18. The nasal interface according to any preceding claim, wherein at least one of the nasal delivery elements has a tapering wall portion.

19. The nasal interface according to claim 18, wherein the tapering wall portion in a region proximal to the gases flow channel is thicker than the tapering wall portion in a region proximal to a gases outlet of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

20. The nasal interface according to claim 18 or claim 19, wherein a base of at least one of the nasal delivery elements has an angled portion.

21. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 18 to 20, wherein the base has a frustoconical shape.

22. The nasal interface according to any preceding claim, wherein the nasal interface comprises a gases delivery elbow coupled to, or defining, the gases inlet port.

23. The nasal interface according to claim 22, wherein the gases delivery elbow comprises a gases delivery portion extending in a first direction to couple to, or defining, the gases inlet port of the interface body, and a gases receipt portion extending in a second direction and configured to receive incoming respiratory gases from the gases supply conduit and to deliver the incoming respiratory gases to the gases delivery portion, and wherein the first direction is transverse to the second direction.

24. The nasal interface according to claim 22, wherein the second direction is a laterally outward direction.

25. A nasal interface comprising: an interface body comprising a gases flow channel, a first nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a first naris of the patient, a second nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a second naris of the patient, wherein at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is a non-sealing nasal delivery element, a gases inlet port in the interface body and in fluid communication with the gases flow channel, the gases inlet port for receiving incoming respiratory gases from a gases supply conduit and enabling the incoming respiratory gases to be delivered into the interface body, wherein the gases inlet port is arranged to direct the incoming respiratory gases towards the first nasal delivery element, and wherein the nasal interface is configured to create an asymmetric flow of gases at a patient's nasal airways.

26. The nasal interface according to claim 25, wherein the gases inlet is arranged to direct a larger proportion of the incoming respiratory gases towards the first nasal delivery element than the second nasal delivery element.

27. The nasal interface according to claim 25 or claims 26, wherein the first nasal delivery element comprises a first gases outlet, wherein the first gases outlet defines a first axis corresponding to a direction of gases flow through the first gases outlet, and wherein the gases inlet port defines an inlet axis corresponding to a direction of gases flow through the gases inlet, and wherein the first axis and inlet axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 90 degrees relative to each other.

28. The nasal interface according to claim 27, wherein the first axis and inlet axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 60 degrees relative to each other.

29. The nasal interface according to claim 27, wherein the first axis and inlet axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 45 degrees relative to each other.

30. The nasal interface according to claim 27, wherein the first axis and inlet axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 30 degrees relative to each other.

31. The nasal interface according to claim 27, wherein the first axis and inlet axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 15 degrees relative to each other.

32. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 25 to 31, wherein the gases inlet port is proximal to the first nasal delivery element and distal from the second nasal delivery element to contribute to the asymmetric flow.

33. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 25 to 32, wherein the nasal interface is configured to receive the incoming respiratory gases from the gases inlet port and to provide, from the incoming respiratory gases, a first flow stream of gases configured to be substantially provided to the first naris of the patient in use and a second flow stream of gases configured to be substantially provided to the second naris of the patient in use, and is configured to direct more of the incoming respiratory gases to the first flow stream of gases than to the second flow stream of gases to contribute to the asymmetric flow.

34. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 25 to 33, wherein the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element lie substantially in a plane of the interface body that is transverse to a first midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar with the sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

35. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 25 to 33, wherein the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element are symmetrical about the midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar with the sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

36. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 25 to 35, wherein the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element are each substantially straight.

37. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 25 to 36, wherein one of the nasal delivery elements is larger than the other of the nasal delivery elements.

38. The nasal interface according to claim 37, wherein the first nasal delivery element is larger than the second nasal delivery element.

39. The nasal interface according to claim 37 or claim 38, wherein the cross section of the internal flow area of the larger nasal delivery element is greater than that of the other nasal delivery element.

40. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 25 to 39, wherein the interface body comprises a pair of side arms that extend in opposed laterally outward directions, optionally, the pair of side arms are configured to be moveable to follow the contours of the face, optionally, the side arms are formed of a flexible material, optionally, wherein each side arm comprises either a ball portion or a socket portion of a ball and socket joint configured to moveably connect to a corresponding ball or socket portion on a headgear connecting portion for connecting a headgear end portion of a headgear.

41. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 25 to 40, the nasal interface comprising a bias flow vent for enabling exhaled gases to be expelled out of the interface body, the bias flow vent positioned downstream of the first nasal delivery element.

42. The nasal interface according to claim 41, wherein the bias flow vent comprises an aperture or an aperture and a diffuser.

43. The nasal interface according to claim 41 or claim 42, comprising at least one baffle extending along the gases flow channel from a region corresponding generally to the inlet gases port toward a region corresponding generally to the bias flow vent.

44. The nasal interface according to claim 43, wherein the at least one baffle is arranged such that when respiratory gases are delivered into the interface body through the gases inlet port, they pass along the baffle to the first nasal delivery element and along the baffle to the second nasal delivery element, and such that exhaled gases substantially pass along the baffle to the bias flow vent.

45. The nasal interface according to claim 43 or claim 44, wherein a plurality of the spaced apart baffles extending along the gases flow channel.

46. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 43 to 45, wherein the at least one baffle extends across the interface body, a frame portion, or both the interface body and a frame portion of the nasal interface.

47. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 25 to 46, wherein at least one of the nasal delivery elements has a tapering wall portion wherein the tapering wall portion in a region proximal to the gases flow channel is thicker than the tapering wall portion in a region proximal to a gases outlet of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

48. The nasal interface according to claim 47, wherein a base of at least one of the nasal delivery elements has an angled portion.

49. The nasal interface according to claim 47, wherein the base has a frustoconical shape.

50. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 25 to 49, the nasal interface comprising a gases delivery elbow coupled to, or defining, the gases inlet portion.

51. The nasal interface according to claim 50, wherein the gases delivery elbow comprises a gases delivery portion extending in a first direction to couple to, or defining, the gases inlet port of the interface body, and a gases receipt portion extending in a second direction and configured to receive the incoming respiratory gases from the gases supply conduit and to deliver the incoming respiratory gases to the gases delivery portion, and wherein the first direction is transverse to the second direction.

52. The nasal interface according to claim 51, wherein the second direction is a laterally outward direction.

53. A nasal interface comprising: an interface body comprising a gases flow channel, a first nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a first naris of the patient, a second nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a second naris of the patient, wherein at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is a non-sealing nasal delivery element, a gases inlet port in the interface body and in fluid communication with the gases flow channel, the gases inlet port for receiving incoming respiratory gases from a gases supply conduit and enabling the incoming respiratory gases to be delivered into the interface body, and a connector for coupling the gases supply conduit to the interface body and to enable the passage of the incoming respiratory gases from the gases supply conduit to the gases flow channel.

54. The nasal interface according to claim 53, wherein the connector is configured to reduce the turbulence of the flow of gases when entering the interface body.

55. The nasal interface according to claim 53 or claim 54, wherein the connector is coupled to or defines the gases inlet port.

56. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 53 to 55, wherein the interface body comprises a frame portion.

57. The nasal interface according to claim 56, wherein the frame portion comprises the gases inlet port, and wherein the interface body comprises the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element.

58. The nasal interface according to claim 56 or claim 57, wherein the connector is integrally formed with the frame portion of the interface body.

59. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 53 to 58, wherein the connector is an elbow.

60. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 53 to 59, the nasal interface comprising a conduit retainer to couple the gases supply conduit to a headgear of the nasal interface.

61. The nasal interface according to claim 60, wherein the conduit retainer comprises an annular portion to moveably receive the gases supply conduit.

62. The nasal interface according to claim 60 or claim 61, wherein the conduit retainer is positioned laterally outward of the elbow and on a side arm adjacent to a coupling of a headgear strap with the side arm of the interface body.

63. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 53 to 62, wherein the nasal interface is configured to create an asymmetric flow of gases at a patient's nasal airways.

64. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 53 to 63, wherein the gases inlet port is substantially directed toward the first nasal delivery element, and optionally wherein the gases inlet port is arranged to direct a larger proportion of the incoming respiratory gases towards the first nasal delivery element than the second nasal delivery element.

65. The nasal interface according to claim 63, wherein the gases inlet port is proximal to the first nasal delivery element and distal from the second nasal delivery element to contribute to the asymmetric flow.

66. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 53 to 65, wherein the nasal interface is configured to receive the incoming respiratory gases from the gases inlet port and to provide, from the incoming respiratory gases, a first flow stream of gases configured to be substantially provided to the first naris of the patient in use and a second flow stream of gases configured to be substantially provided to the second naris of the patient in use, and is configured to direct more of the incoming respiratory gases to the first flow stream of gases than to the second flow stream of gases to contribute to the asymmetric flow.

67. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 53 to 66, wherein the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element lie in a plane of the interface body that is transverse to a first midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar with the sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

68. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 53 to 67, wherein the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element are symmetrical about the midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar with the sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

69. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 53 to 68, wherein the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element are each substantially straight.

70. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 53 to 69, wherein one of the nasal delivery elements is larger than the other of the nasal delivery elements, optionally, wherein the first nasal delivery element is larger than the second nasal delivery element.

71. The nasal interface according to claim 70, wherein the cross section of the internal flow area of the larger nasal delivery element is greater than that of the other nasal delivery element.

12. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 53 to 71, wherein the interface body comprises a pair of side arms that extend in opposed laterally outward directions, optionally, the pair of side arms are configured to be moveable to follow the contours of the face, optionally, the side arms are formed of a flexible material, optionally, wherein each side arm comprises either a ball portion or a socket portion of a ball and socket joint configured to moveably connect to a corresponding ball or socket portion on a headgear connecting portion for connecting a headgear end portion of a headgear.

73. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 53 to 72, the nasal interface comprising a bias flow vent for enabling exhaled gases to be expelled out of the interface body, the bias flow vent positioned downstream of the first nasal delivery element.

74. The nasal interface according to claim 73, the nasal interface comprising at least one baffle extending along the gases flow channel from a region corresponding generally to the inlet gases port toward a region corresponding generally to the bias flow vent.

75. The nasal interface according to claim 74, wherein the at least one baffle is arranged such that when respiratory gases are delivered into the interface body through the gases inlet port, they pass along the baffle to the first nasal delivery element and along the baffle to the second nasal delivery element, and such that exhaled gases substantially pass along the baffle to the bias flow vent.

76. The nasal interface according to claim 73 or claim 74, the nasal interface comprising a plurality of the spaced apart baffles extending along the gases flow channel.

77. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 74 to 76, wherein the at least one baffle extends across the interface body, a frame portion, or both the interface body and a frame portion of the nasal interface.

78. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 53 to 77, wherein at least one of the nasal delivery elements has a tapering wall portion wherein the tapering wall portion in a region proximal to the gases flow channel is thicker than the tapering wall portion in a region proximal to a gases outlet of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

79. The nasal interface according to claim 78, wherein a base of at least one of the nasal delivery elements has an angled portion.

80. The nasal interface according to claim 78, wherein the base has a frustoconical shape.

81. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 53 to 80, wherein the retainer elbow comprises a gases delivery portion extending in a first direction to couple to, or defining, the gases inlet portion of the interface body, and a gases receipt portion extending in a second direction and configured to receive the incoming respiratory gases from the gases supply conduit and deliver the incoming respiratory gases to the gases delivery portion, and wherein the first direction is transverse to the second direction.

82. The nasal interface according to claim 81, wherein the second direction is a laterally outward direction.

83. A nasal interface comprising: an interface body comprising a gases flow channel, a first nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a first naris of the patient, a second nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a second naris of the patient, wherein at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is a non-sealing nasal delivery element, a gases inlet port in the interface body and in fluid communication with the gases flow channel, the gases inlet port for receiving incoming respiratory gases from a gases supply conduit and enabling the incoming respiratory gases to be delivered into the interface body, wherein the interface body comprises a pair of side arms that extend in opposed laterally outward directions, wherein the pair of side arms are configured to be moveable to follow the contours of the face.

84. The nasal interface according to claim 83, wherein the side arms are formed of a flexible material.

85. The nasal interface according to claim 83 or claim 84, wherein each side arm comprises a headgear connection feature to movably connect to either a ball portion or a socket portion of a ball and socket joint configured to moveably connect to respective connectors on first and second ends of a headgear.

86. The nasal interface according to claim 85, wherein a first one of the side arms comprises either a ball portion or a socket portion of the ball and socket joint configured to moveably connect to a corresponding ball or socket portion on the respective headgear connecting portion.

87. The nasal interface according to claim 85 or claim 86, wherein a second one of the side arms comprises either a ball portion or a socket portion of the ball and socket joint configured to moveably connect to a corresponding ball or socket portion on the respective headgear connecting portion.

88. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 85 to 87, wherein the ball and socket joint is a pivot point that the headgear connecting portion pivots about in any direction with a maximum pivot angle of 90 degrees relative to the side arm.

89. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 85 to 88, wherein each headgear connection feature is moveably connectable to either of the connectors on the first and second ends of the headgear.

90. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 83 to 89, wherein the gases inlet port is proximal to the first nasal delivery element and distal from the second nasal delivery element to contribute to the asymmetric flow.

91. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 83 to 90, wherein the nasal interface is configured to receive the incoming respiratory gases from the gases inlet port and to provide, from the incoming respiratory gases, a first flow stream of gases configured to be substantially provided to the first naris of the patient in use and a second flow stream of gases configured to be substantially provided to the second naris of the patient in use, and is configured to direct more of the incoming respiratory gases to the first flow stream of gases than to the second flow stream of gases to contribute to the asymmetric flow.

92. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 83 to 91, wherein the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element lie substantially in a plane of the interface body that is transverse to a first midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar with the sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

93. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 83 to 92, wherein the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element are symmetrical about the midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar with the sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

94. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 83 to 93, wherein the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element are each substantially straight.

95. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 83 to 94, wherein one of the nasal delivery elements is larger than the other of the nasal delivery elements.

96. The nasal interface according to claim 95, wherein the first nasal delivery element is larger than the second nasal delivery element.

97. The nasal interface according to claim 95 or claim 96, wherein the cross section of the internal flow area of the larger nasal delivery element is greater than that of the other nasal delivery element.

98. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 83 to 97, the nasal interface comprising a bias flow vent for enabling exhaled gases to be expelled out of the interface body, the bias flow vent positioned downstream of the first nasal delivery element.

99. The nasal interface according to claim 98, wherein the bias flow vent comprises an aperture or an aperture and a diffuser.

100. The nasal interface according to claim 98 or claim 99, the nasal interface comprising at least one baffle extending along the gases flow channel from a regioncorresponding generally to the inlet gases port toward a region corresponding generally to the bias flow vent.

101. The nasal interface according to claim 100, wherein the at least one baffle is arranged such that when respiratory gases are delivered into the interface body through the gases inlet port, they pass along the baffle to the first nasal delivery element and along the baffle to the second nasal delivery element, and such that exhaled gases substantially pass along the baffle to the bias flow vent.

102. The nasal interface according to claim 100 or claim 101, comprising a plurality of the spaced apart baffles extending along the gases flow channel.

103. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 100 to 102, wherein the at least one baffle extends across the interface body, a frame portion, or both an interface body and a frame portion of the nasal interface.

104. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 83 to 103, wherein at least one of the nasal delivery elements has a tapering wall portion.

105. The nasal interface according to claim 104, wherein the tapering wall portion in a region proximal to the gases flow channel is thicker than the tapering wall portion in a region proximal to a gases outlet of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

106. The nasal interface according to claim 104 or claim 105, wherein a base of at least one of the nasal delivery elements has an angled portion.

107. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 104 to 106, wherein the base has a frustoconical shape.

108. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 83 to 107, wherein the nasal interface comprises a gases delivery elbow coupled to, or defining, the gases inlet port.

109. The nasal interface according to claim 108, wherein the gases delivery elbow comprises a gases delivery portion extending in a first direction to couple to, or defining, the gases inlet port of the interface body, and a gases receipt portion extending in asecond direction and configured to receive incoming respiratory gases from the gases supply conduit and to deliver the incoming respiratory gases to the gases delivery portion, and wherein the first direction is transverse to the second direction.

110. The nasal interface according to claim 109, wherein the second direction is a laterally outward direction.

111. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 83 to 110, wherein the interface body comprises a single inlet comprising the gases inlet port.

112. A patient interface comprising the nasal interface of any one of claims 83 to 111 and a pair of the headgear connecting portions each moveably connected to one of the side arms, a first one of the side arms comprising either the ball or socket portion and a first headgear connecting portion comprising the corresponding socket or ball portion, and a second one of the side arms comprising either the ball or socket portion and a second headgear connecting portion comprising the corresponding socket or ball portion.

113. The patient interface according to claim 112, wherein the patient interface comprises a headgear comprising the headgear connecting portions.

114. The patient interface according to claim 112 or claim 113, wherein the patient interface comprises flexible cheek contacting portions.

115. The patient interface according to any one of claims 112 to 114, wherein the headgear is symmetric about a midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar with the sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

116. A method of changing the configuration or direction of a gases inlet of a nasal interface according to any one of claims 83 to 111, the method comprising rotating the ball portion within the socket portion of the ball and socket joint, such that nasal interface goes from a first configuration where the gases inlet is on a left side of the nasal interface to a second configuration where gases inlet is on a right side of the nasal interface, wherein rotating the ball portion in the socket portion causes the change from first configuration to second configuration.

117. A nasal interface comprising: an interface body comprising a gases flow channel, a first nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a first naris of the patient, a second nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a second naris of the patient, a gases inlet port in the interface body and in fluid communication with the gases flow channel, the gases inlet port for receiving incoming respiratory gases from a gases supply conduit and enabling the incoming respiratory gases to be delivered into the interface body, a bias flow vent for enabling exhaled gases to be expelled out of the interface body, the bias flow vent positioned downstream of the first nasal delivery element, and a cap configured to at least partly cover the bias flow vent in use.

118. The nasal interface according to claim 117, wherein at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is a non-sealing nasal delivery element.

119. The nasal interface according to claim 117 or claim 118, wherein the cap is configured to substantially cover the bias flow vent in use.

120. The nasal interface according to claim 119, wherein the cap comprises at least one opening to enable gases flow from the bias flow vent through the cap.

121. The nasal interface according to claim 120, wherein the cap comprises an annular configuration comprising a peripheral frame surrounding the opening.

122. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 119 to 121, wherein the interface body comprises a frame portion, and wherein the bias flow vent is located in the frame portion.

123. The nasal interface according to claim 120, wherein the cap is tethered to the frame portion.

124. The nasal interface according to claim 120, wherein the cap is removably attached to the frame.

125. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 117 to 124, wherein the nasal interface is configured to create an asymmetric flow of gases at a patient's nasal airways.

126. A nasal interface comprising: an interface body comprising a gases flow channel in a main body portion of the interface body, a first nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a first naris of the patient, a second nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a second naris of the patient, wherein at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is a non-sealing nasal delivery element, and a gases inlet port in the interface body and in fluid communication with the gases flow channel, the gases inlet port for receiving incoming respiratory gases from a gases supply conduit and enabling the incoming respiratory gases to be delivered into the interface body, wherein the interface body comprises an external gases channel in an exterior of the interface body and adjacent at least one of the nasal delivery elements and configured to enable a flow of gases through the external gases channel.

127. The nasal interface according to claim 126, wherein the external gases channel extends along at least part of the main body portion.

128. The nasal interface according to claim 126 or claim 127, wherein the external gases channel extends from at or adjacent a base of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements, away from the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

129. The nasal interface according to claim 127 or claim 128, wherein the interface body comprises a frame portion, and wherein the interface body comprises the main body portion.

130. The nasal interface according to claim 129, wherein one of the nasal delivery elements is larger than the other of the nasal delivery elements, and wherein the external gases channel is adjacent a smaller one of the nasal delivery elements.

131. The nasal interface according to claim 129 or claim 130, wherein the external gases channel extends along at least part of the main body portion and along at least part of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

132. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 129 to 131, wherein the external gases channel extends to a tip of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements that comprises a gases outlet.

133. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 129 to 132, comprising a plurality of the external gases channels adjacent the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

134. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 129 to 132, comprising at least one of the external gases channels is adjacent each of the nasal delivery elements.

135. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 129 to 134, comprising a plurality of the external gases channels are adjacent each of the nasal delivery elements.

136. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 129 to 135, wherein the external gases channel comprises an expanding or bifurcated configuration in region distal from the at least one of the nasal delivery elements, to enable gases flow away from the frame.

137. A nasal interface comprising: an interface body comprising a gases flow channel, a first nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a first naris of the patient, a second nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a second naris of the patient,wherein at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is a non-sealing nasal delivery element, and a gases inlet port in the interface body and in fluid communication with the gases flow channel, the gases inlet port for receiving incoming respiratory gases from a gases supply conduit and enabling the incoming respiratory gases to be delivered into the interface body, wherein the interface body is symmetrical about a second midline plane of the interface body that is transverse to a first midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar to a sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use, wherein the interface body comprises a pair of side arms that extend in opposed laterally outward directions, to provide an articulating connection of the headgear with the nasal interface.

138. The nasal interface according to claim 137, wherein each side arm comprises a headgear connection feature to movably connect to either a ball portion or a socket portion of a ball and socket joint configured to moveably connect to respective connectors on first and second ends of a headgear.

139. The nasal interface according to claim 138, wherein the headgear connection feature on a first one of the side arms comprises either a ball portion or a socket portion of a ball and socket joint configured to moveably connect to a corresponding ball or socket portion on the headgear connecting portion for connecting the headgear end portion of a headgear, and wherein a second one of the side arms comprises either a ball portion or a socket portion of a ball and socket joint configured to moveably connect to a corresponding ball or socket portion on a headgear connecting portion for connecting a headgear end portion of a headgear.

140. The nasal interface according to claim 138 or claim 139, wherein each headgear connection feature is moveably connectable to either of the connectors on the first and second ends of the headgear.

141. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 138 to 140, wherein the ball and socket joint is a pivot point that the headgear connecting portion pivots about in any direction with a maximum pivot angle of 90 degrees relative to the side arm.

142. A method of changing the configuration or direction of a gases inlet of a nasal interface according to any one of claims 138 to 141, the method comprising rotating the ball portion within the socket portion of the ball and socket joint, such that nasal interface goes from a first configuration where the gases inlet is on a left side of the nasal interface to a second configuration where gases inlet is on a right side of the nasal interface, wherein rotating the ball portion in the socket portion causes the change from first configuration to second configuration.

143. A patient interface comprising a nasal interface according to any one of 138 to 142, and a headgear comprising first and second ends with connectors that are configured to connect to the headgear connection features on the side arms.

144. A respiratory therapy system comprising : a respiratory therapy apparatus comprising : a controller; an ambient air inlet; a gases outlet; and a nasal interface according to any one of claims 1 to 111 or claims 117 to 141.

145. A respiratory therapy system according to claim 144, comprising : a blood oxygen saturation sensor; an oxygen inlet; and a valve in fluid communication with the oxygen inlet to control a flow of oxygen through the oxygen inlet; wherein the controller is configured to control the valve based on at least one measurement of oxygen saturation from the blood oxygen saturation sensor.

146. A nasal interface comprising : an interface body comprising a gases flow channel in a main body portion of the interface body, a first nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a first naris of the patient, a second nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a second naris of the patient, wherein at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is a non-sealing nasal delivery element, anda gases inlet port in the interface body and in fluid communication with the gases flow channel, the gases inlet port for receiving incoming respiratory gases from a gases supply conduit and enabling the incoming respiratory gases to be delivered into the interface body, wherein the interface body comprises an external cutout in an exterior of the interface body and adjacent at least one of the nasal delivery elements and configured to enable a flow of gases through the external cutout.

147. The nasal interface according to claim 146, wherein the external cutout extends from or adjacently from at least one of the nasal delivery elements along part of a main body portion of the interface body to a lateral edge of the interface body.

148. The nasal interface according to claim 146 or claim 147, wherein the external cutout extends around or adjacently around a base of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements, and away from the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

149. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 146 to 148, wherein the external cutout is a recess in the main body portion of the interface body.

150. The nasal interface according to claim 149, wherein walls of the recess are formed at a substantially transverse angle relative to the surface of the main body portion.

151. The nasal interface according to claim 149, wherein walls of the recess are formed at an angle between about 35 and 60 degrees relative to the surface of the main body portion.

152. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 146 to 151, wherein the external cutout comprises parallel sides extending between the lateral edge to an arc extending around the base of the at least one of the nasal delivery elements.

153. The nasal interface according to claim 152, wherein the arc of the external cutout shares a central axis with the at least one nasal delivery element.

154. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 146 to 153, comprising a second external cutout extending from or adjacently from the other one of the nasal delivery elements along part of a main body portion of the interface body to the opposing lateral edge of the interface body.

155. The nasal interface according to claim 154, wherein the first and second external cutouts are symmetrical about a midline plane through the interface body, wherein the midline plane is parallel to a sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

156. A nasal interface comprising: an interface body comprising a gases flow channel in a main body portion of the interface body, a first nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a first naris of the patient, a second nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a second naris of the patient, wherein at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is a non-sealing nasal delivery element, and a gases inlet port in the interface body and in fluid communication with the gases flow channel, the gases inlet port for receiving incoming respiratory gases from a gases supply conduit and enabling the incoming respiratory gases to be delivered into the interface body, wherein the interface body comprises a frame portion and a cushion portion, the cushion portion comprising an opening for receiving at least a portion of a frame for supporting the nasal interface, wherein the frame portion and cushion portion are inter-engageable.

157. The nasal interface according to claim 156, wherein the frame portion comprises the inlet gases port, and wherein the cushion portion comprises the first delivery element and the second delivery element.

158. The nasal interface according to claim 156 or claim 157, comprising a bias flow vent for enabling exhaled gases to be expelled out of the interface body, wherein the frame portion comprises the bias flow vent.

159. The nasal interface according to claim 158, wherein the frame portion extends between the inlet gases port and the bias flow vent and forming at least part of an outer surface of the interface body.

160. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 156 to 159, wherein the frame portion comprises a groove arranged around at least a portion of its periphery, at least a portion of an edge of the opening of the cushion portion receivable in the groove.

161. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 156 to 160, wherein a surface of the frame portion encompassed by its periphery is substantially planar.

162. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 156 to 161, wherein the frame portion comprises enlarged lateral portions relative to a substantially narrowed central portion of the frame portion.

163. The nasal interface according to claim 162, wherein the frame member tapers toward the enlarged lateral portions from a substantially laterally central position of the frame portion.

164. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 156 to 163, wherein the surface of the frame portion has a substantially hour-glass shaped outline.

165. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 156 to 161, wherein the frame portion comprises narrowed lateral portions relative to a substantially enlarged laterally central portion of the frame portion.

166. The nasal interface according to claim 165, wherein the frame member tapers toward the narrowed lateral portions from a substantially laterally central position of the frame portion.

167. The nasal interface according to claim 165 or claim 166, wherein the frame member comprises a substantially straight upper edge and a substantially curved lower edge.

168. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 165 to 167, wherein the surface of the frame portion has a substantially elongated circle segment shaped outline.

169. The nasal interface according to claim 165 or claim 166, wherein the frame member comprises substantially straight upper and lower edges.

170. The nasal interface according to claim 169, wherein the surface of the frame portion has a substantially stadium-shaped outline.

171. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 156 to 170, wherein the frame portion comprises a first side arm and a second side arm connected at its respective lateral edges.

172. The nasal interface according to claim 171, wherein frame portion, first side arm and second arm are formed as a unitary member.

173. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 156 to 172, wherein the interface body is symmetrical about a second midline plane of the interface body that is transverse to a first midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar to a sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

174. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 156 to 172, comprising an external cutout in an exterior of the cushion portion and adjacent at least one of the nasal delivery elements and configured to enable a flow of gases through the external cutout.

175. A nasal interface comprising: an interface body comprising a gases flow channel in a main body portion of the interface body, a first nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a first naris of the patient, a second nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a second naris of the patient, wherein at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is a non-sealing nasal delivery element, anda gases inlet port in the interface body and in fluid communication with the gases flow channel, the gases inlet port for receiving incoming respiratory gases from a gases supply conduit and enabling the incoming respiratory gases to be delivered into the interface body, wherein the interface body comprises a pair of side arms that extend in opposed laterally outward directions, wherein the pair of side arms are configured to hingedly articulate to follow the contours of the face.

176. The nasal interface according to claim 175, wherein the side arms are formed of a flexible material.

177. The nasal interface according to claim 175 or claim 176, wherein each side arm comprises at least one living hinge comprising an area or line of thinned material relative to the remaining material of the side arm, the thinned material being more flexible relative to the remaining material of the side arm and the side arm configured to hingedly articulate at the living hinge.

178. The nasal interface according to claim 177, wherein the living hinge comprises two intersecting lines of thinned material forming an X-shape on the side arm, the living hinge configured to hingedly articulate along the lines of the X-shape.

179. The nasal interface according to claim 177 or claim 178, wherein the living hinge comprises at least one line of thinned material extending substantially vertically across the side arm, the living hinge configured to hingedly articulate along the at least one line.

180. The nasal interface according to claim 179, wherein the living hinge further comprises a further line of thinned material extending substantially vertically across the side arm, the one line is separated from the further line and the living hinge configured to hingedly articulate along the one line and / or further line.

181. The nasal interface according to claim 177, wherein the living hinge comprises an area of thinned material, the area of thinner material formed of two opposing triangular shapes with their respective apices meeting at the vertical midpoint of the side arm, the living hinge configured to hingedly articulate along any line passing through the thinned material.

182. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 177 to 181, wherein the living hinge is formed on the patient facing side of the side arms of when in use.

183. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 177 to 182, wherein the living hinge is configured hingedly articulate along the hinge direction with a maximum angle of 90 degrees relative to the side arm.

184. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 175 to 183, wherein the interface body is symmetrical about a second midline plane of the interface body that is transverse to a first midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar to a sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use.

185. A nasal interface comprising: an interface body comprising a gases flow channel in a main body portion of the interface body, a first nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a first naris of the patient, a second nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a second naris of the patient, wherein at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is a non-sealing nasal delivery element, and a gases inlet port in the interface body and in fluid communication with the gases flow channel, the gases inlet port for receiving incoming respiratory gases from a gases supply conduit and enabling the incoming respiratory gases to be delivered into the interface body, wherein the interface body comprises at least one cheek pad positioned on straps or arms connected to lateral portions of the interface body and configured to be positioned on a patient's cheek when in use.

186. The nasal interface according to claim 185, wherein the cheek pads are formed of a flexible material to allow the cheek pads to conform to a patient's cheek.

187. The nasal interface according to claim 185 or claim 186, wherein the cheek pad has a bulbous or oval shape extending in a patient direction from the strap or arm.

188. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 185 to 187, wherein the cheek pad is formed having a substantially tubular body with a lateral channel extending therethrough.

189. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 185 to 187, wherein the cheek pad is formed as a hollow body.

190. The nasal interface according to claim 189, wherein the cheek pad comprises a pad opening configured to inter-engage with a hooking connection formed on the strap or arm for securing the cheek pad to the strap or arm.

191. The nasal interface according to claim 190, wherein the hooking connection comprises slot openings for securing at least one strap.

192. A nasal interface comprising: an interface body comprising a gases flow channel in a main body portion of the interface body, a first nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a first naris of the patient, a second nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a second naris of the patient, wherein at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is a non-sealing nasal delivery element, and a gases inlet port in the interface body and in fluid communication with the gases flow channel, the gases inlet port for receiving incoming respiratory gases from a gases supply conduit and enabling the incoming respiratory gases to be delivered into the interface body, wherein nasal interface is configured to be supported on a patient's head via headgear, the headgear comprising a securing member positionable at a rear of a patient's head, the securing member configured to extend around a portion of a circumference of the patient's head and configured to be secured in the hair of a patient in the manner of a comb.

193. The nasal interface according to claim 192, wherein the securing member comprises a plurality of substantially vertically arranged struts, the channels between the struts configured to receive a patient's hair.

194. The nasal interface according to claim 193, wherein adjacent struts are connected by loops at opposing vertical ends of the struts forming a substantially S- or Z-shaped sinusoidal pattern.

195. The nasal interface according to claim 194, wherein the securing member comprises secondary loops arranged between the adjacent struts vertically separated from the loops.

196. The nasal interface according to claim 194 or claim 195, wherein the loops comprise webbing.

197. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 193 to 196, wherein the struts have a uniform length.

198. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 193 to 196, wherein the length of the struts reduces from a mid-point of the securing member to each end of the securing member.

199. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 192 to 198, wherein the securing member is flexible to allow a circumferential expansion.

200. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 192 to 199, wherein the securing member comprises buckles at each of its circumferential ends.

201. A headgear for supporting a patient interface, the headgear comprising : a securing member positionable at a rear of a patient's head, the securing member configured to extend around a portion of a circumference of the patient's head and configured to be secured in the hair of a patient in the manner of a comb.

202. The headgear according to claim 201, wherein the securing member comprises a plurality of substantially vertically arranged struts, the channels between the struts configured to receive the patient's hair.

203. The headgear according to claim 202, wherein adjacent struts are connected by loops at opposing vertical ends of the struts forming a substantially S- or Z-shaped sinusoidal pattern.

204. The headgear according to claim 203, wherein the securing member comprises secondary loops arranged between the adjacent struts vertically separated from the loops.

205. The headgear according to claim 203 or claim 204, wherein the loops comprise webbing.

206. The headgear according to any one of claims 202 to 205, wherein the struts have a uniform length.

207. The headgear according to any one of claims 202 to 206, wherein the length of the struts reduces from a mid-point of the securing member to each end of the securing member.

208. The headgear according to any one of claims 201 to 207, wherein the securing member is flexible to allow a circumferential expansion.

209. The headgear according to any one of claims 201 to 208, wherein the securing member comprises buckles at each of its circumferential ends.

210. A patient interface comprising: a headgear according to any one of claims 201 to 209; and a nasal interface for delivering respiratory gases to a patient, wherein the headgear is configured to support the nasal interface on a patient's head.

211. The patient interface according to claim 210, wherein the nasal interface comprises an interface body comprising a gases flow channel in a main body portion of the interface body, a first nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a first naris of the patient, a second nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a second naris of the patient.

212. The patient interface according to claim 211, wherein at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is a non-sealing nasal delivery element.

213. The patient interface according to claim 211 or claim 212, wherein the nasal interface comprises a gases inlet port in the interface body and in fluid communication with the gases flow channel, the gases inlet port for receiving incoming respiratory gases from a gases supply conduit and enabling the incoming respiratory gases to be delivered into the interface body.

214. The patient interface according to any one of claims 210 to 213, wherein the nasal interface is configured to create an asymmetric flow of gases at a patient's nasal airways.

215. The patient interface according to claim 213, wherein the gases inlet port is arranged to direct a larger proportion of the incoming respiratory gases towards the first nasal delivery element than the second nasal delivery element to create or contribute to an asymmetric flow, wherein the gases inlet port is optionally substantially directed toward the first nasal delivery element and / or proximal to the first nasal delivery element and distal from the second nasal delivery element.

216. The patient interface according to claim 213 or claim 215, wherein the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element lie substantially in a plane of the interface body that is transverse, optionally orthogonal, to a first midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar with the sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use, the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element optionally being symmetrical about said midline plane of the interface body.

217. The patient interface according to claim 213 or any one of claims 215 to 216, wherein the interface body comprises a first side at which the first and second nasal delivery elements are provided and an opposite second side at which the inlet port as well as the bias flow vent are provided, the interface body as a whole optionally being curved and having a radial inner surface forming the first side and a radial outer surface forming the second side.

218. The patient interface according to claim 213 or any one of claims 215 to 217, wherein the first nasal delivery element is larger than the second nasal delivery element, optionally the cross section of the internal flow area of the larger nasal delivery element being greater than that of the other nasal delivery element.

219. The patient interface according to claim 213 or any one of claims 215 to 218, wherein the nasal interface comprises at least one baffle extending along the gases flow channel from a region corresponding generally to the gases inlet port toward a region corresponding generally to the bias flow vent, wherein the at least one baffle is optionally arranged such that when respiratory gases are delivered into the interface body through the gases inlet port, they pass along the baffle to the first nasal delivery element and along the baffle to the second nasal delivery element, and such that exhaled gases substantially pass along the baffle to the bias flow vent.

220. The patient interface according to claim 213 or any one of claims 215 to 219, wherein the nasal interface comprises a connector for coupling the gases supply conduit to the interface body to enable the passage of the incoming respiratory gases from the gases supply conduit to the gases flow channel, the connector being coupled to or defining the gases inlet port, wherein the connector optionally is an elbow, which is optionally configured to redirect the gas flow by more than 30 degrees, more than 60 degrees or by approximately 90 degrees.

221. The patient interface according to claim 213 or any one of claims 215 to 220, wherein the interface body comprises a pair of side arms that extend in opposed laterally outward directions, wherein optionally, the pair of side arms are configured to be moveable to follow the contours of the face, optionally, the side arms being formed of a flexible material, optionally, wherein each side arm comprises either a ball portion or a socket portion of a ball and socket joint configured to moveably connect to a corresponding ball or socket portion on a headgear.

222. A nasal interface comprising : an interface body comprising a gases flow channel, a first nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a first naris of the patient, a second nasal delivery element in fluid communication with the gases flow channel and configured to deliver gases to a second naris of the patient,wherein at least one of the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element is a non-sealing nasal delivery element, a gases inlet port in the interface body and in fluid communication with the gases flow channel, the gases inlet port for receiving incoming respiratory gases from a gases supply conduit and enabling the incoming respiratory gases to be delivered into the interface body, and a bias flow vent for enabling exhaled gases to be expelled out of the interface body, wherein the nasal interface is configured to create an asymmetric flow of gases at a patient's nasal airways.

223. The nasal interface according to claim 222, wherein the gases inlet port is arranged to direct a larger proportion of the incoming respiratory gases towards the first nasal delivery element than the second nasal delivery element to create or contribute to the asymmetric flow, wherein the gases inlet port is optionally substantially directed toward the first nasal delivery element and / or proximal to the first nasal delivery element and distal from the second nasal delivery element.

224. The nasal interface according to claim 223, wherein the first nasal delivery element comprises a first gases outlet, wherein the first gases outlet defines a first axis corresponding to a direction of gases flow through the first gases outlet, and wherein the gases inlet port defines an inlet axis corresponding to a direction of gases flow through the gases inlet, and wherein the first axis and the inlet axis are aligned with each other or at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 90 degrees relative to each other, optionally less than 60 degrees, 45 degrees, 30 degrees or 15 degrees relative to each other.

225. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 222 to 224, wherein the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element lie substantially in a plane of the interface body that is transverse, optionally orthogonal, to a first midline plane of the interface body that is arranged to be parallel to or coplanar with the sagittal plane of a patient when the nasal interface is in use, the first nasal delivery element and the second nasal delivery element optionally being symmetrical about said midline plane of the interface body.

226. The nasal interface according to claim 224 or claim 225, wherein the second nasal delivery element comprises a second gases outlet, wherein the second gases outlet defines a second axis corresponding to a direction of gases flow through the second gases outlet, wherein the first axis, the second axis and the inlet axis all lie within the plane of the interface body that is transverse to said first midline plane.

227. The nasal interface according to claim 226, wherein the first axis and the second axis are at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 90 degrees relative to each other, optionally less than 60 degrees, 45 degrees, 30 degrees or 15 degrees relative to each other.

228. The nasal interface according to claim 226 or claim 227, wherein the bias flow vent defines an outlet axis corresponding to a direction of gases flow through the bias flow vent, wherein the second axis and the outlet axis are aligned with each other or at an angle of between 0 degrees and up to but less than 90 degrees relative to each other, optionally less than 60 degrees, 45 degrees, 30 degrees or 15 degrees relative to each other.

229. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 225 to 228, wherein the gases inlet port and the bias flow vent are provided on opposite sides of said midline plane, the gases inlet port and the bias flow vent optionally being symmetrical about said midline plane.

230. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 222 to 229, wherein the interface body comprises a first side at which the first and second nasal delivery elements are provided and an opposite second side at which the inlet port as well as the bias flow vent are provided, the interface body as a whole optionally being curved and having a radial inner surface forming the first side and a radial outer surface forming the second side.

231. The nasal interface according to any one of claim 222 to 230, wherein the first nasal delivery element is larger than the second nasal delivery element, optionally the cross section of the internal flow area of the larger nasal delivery element being greater than that of the other nasal delivery element.

232. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 222 to 231, wherein the bias flow vent comprises an aperture or an aperture and a diffuser.

233. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 222 to 232, the nasal interface comprising at least one baffle extending along the gases flow channel from a region corresponding generally to the gases inlet port toward a region corresponding generally to the bias flow vent, wherein the at least one baffle is optionally arranged such that when respiratory gases are delivered into the interface body through the gases inlet port, they pass along the baffle to the first nasal delivery element and along the baffle to the second nasal delivery element, and such that exhaled gases substantially pass along the baffle to the bias flow vent.

234. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 222 to 233, the nasal interface comprising a connector for coupling the gases supply conduit to the interface body to enable the passage of the incoming respiratory gases from the gases supply conduit to the gases flow channel, the connector being coupled to or defining the gases inlet port, wherein the connector optionally is an elbow, which is optionally configured to redirect the gas flow by more than 30 degrees, more than 60 degrees or by approximately 90 degrees.

235. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 222 to 234, wherein the interface body comprises a pair of side arms that extend in opposed laterally outward directions, wherein optionally, the pair of side arms are configured to be moveable to follow the contours of the face, optionally, the side arms being formed of a flexible material, optionally, wherein each side arm comprises either a ball portion or a socket portion of a ball and socket joint configured to moveably connect to a corresponding ball or socket portion on a headgear.

236. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 222 to 234, wherein the interface body comprises a pair of side arms that extend in opposed laterally outward directions, wherein the pair of side arms are configured to hingedly articulate to follow the contours of the face, and optionally wherein each side arm comprises at least one living hinge comprising an area or line of thinned material relative to the remaining material of the side arm, the thinned material being more flexible relative to the remaining material of the side arm and the side arm configured to hingedly articulate at the living hinge.

237. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 222 to 236, wherein the interface body comprises a frame portion and a cushion portion, the cushion portion comprising an opening for receiving at least a portion of a frame for supporting the nasal interface, wherein the frame portion and cushion portion are inter-engageable, and optionally wherein the frame portion comprises a groove arranged around at least a portion of its periphery, at least a portion of an edge of the opening of the cushion portion receivable in the groove, and which optionally a surface of the frame portion encompassed by its periphery is substantially planar.

238. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 222 to 237, wherein the interface body comprises at least one cheek pad positioned on straps or arms connected to lateral portions of the interface body and configured to be positioned on a patient's cheek when in use and optionally the cheek pads are formed of a flexible material to allow the cheek pads to conform to a patient's cheek, and which optionally comprises a pad opening configured to inter-engage with a hooking connection formed on the strap or arm for securing the cheek pad to the strap or arm.

239. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 222 to 238, wherein the interface body comprises an external cutout in an exterior of the interface body and adjacent at least one of the nasal delivery elements and configured to enable a flow of gases through the external cutout, and optionally wherein the external cutout is a recess in the main body portion of the interface body, and which optionally walls of the recess are formed at a substantially transverse angle relative to the surface of the main body portion.

240. The nasal interface according to any one of claims 222 to 236, wherein the nasal interface is configured to be supported on a patient's head via headgear, the headgear comprising a securing member positionable at a rear of a patient's head, the securing member configured to extend around a portion of a circumference of the patient's head and configured to be secured in the hair of a patient in the manner of a comb, and optionally comprising a plurality of substantially vertically arranged struts, and which adjacent struts optionally are connected by loops at opposing vertical ends of the struts forming a substantially S- or Z-shaped sinusoidal pattern.

241. A headgear for supporting a nasal interface, the headgear comprising a securing member positionable at a rear of a patient's head, the securing member configured toextend around a portion of a circumference of the patient's head and configured to be secured in the hair of a patient in the manner of a comb, and optionally comprising a plurality of substantially vertically arranged struts, and which adjacent struts optionally are connected by loops at opposing vertical ends of the struts forming a substantially S- or Z-shaped sinusoidal pattern.

242. A patient interface comprising : a headgear according to claim 241; and a nasal interface according to any one of claims 222 to 239 wherein the headgear is configured to support the nasal interface on a patient's head.

243. A patient interface with a nasal interface according to claim 235 and a headgear comprising first and second ends with ball or socket portions that are configured to connect to the ball or socket portions on the side arms.

244. A respiratory therapy system comprising : a respiratory therapy apparatus comprising : a controller; an ambient air inlet; a gases outlet; and a nasal interface according to any one of claims 222 to 240 or a patient interface according to claim 242 or claim 243.

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