Breathing assistance apparatus

Abstract

To provide an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas that has one or more features that assist with the use, functioning, or configuration of the apparatus or improves the safety of the apparatus, or that will at least provide the public or a medical professional with a useful choice.SOLUTION: An apparatus for delivering a flow of gas, has a housing 2302' with a recess, and an outlet port 3210' for a flow of gas. The recess is defined by at least one wall 3256, 3262 that is substantially continuous, gas impermeable, and unbroken, other than a gas flow passage from the recess to the outlet port of the housing.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 151

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to flow therapy devices for delivering gas to a patient. [Background technology]

[0002] Respiratory assistance devices are used to deliver a flow of gas to a user or patient in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, healthcare facilities, home care or domestic environments. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] Applicant has determined that there is a possibility of fire or explosion if gas, such as high concentration oxygen, comes into contact with electrical and / or electronic components of a respiratory assistance device.

[0004] The applicant has also determined that it may be difficult to insert and / or retain and / or remove the liquid chamber within the chamber compartment of the respiratory assistance device, particularly for users with limited mobility. Complete or accurate insertion and / or retention may be necessary to ensure that an adequate seal is obtained and maintained between the liquid chamber and other components forming part of the gas flow path.

[0005] The applicant has also determined that it can be difficult to maintain components clean and / or sterile when they are secured within the housing of the respiratory assistance device.

[0006] It is therefore desirable to provide an apparatus for delivering a gas flow that isolates the gas flow from electrical and / or electronic components.

[0007] Additionally or alternatively, it may be desirable to provide a device for delivering a flow of gas that has one or more features that aid in inserting and / or retaining and / or removing a liquid chamber within the chamber compartment.

[0008] Additionally or alternatively, it may be desirable to provide a device for delivering a flow of gas that has one or more removable parts that aid in the use, function or configuration of the device.

[0009] It is an object of one or more of the disclosed embodiments to provide a device for delivering a flow of gas that has one or more features that aid in the use, function or configuration of the device, or that improve the safety of the device, or that at least provide a useful choice to the public or medical professionals. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] Thus, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the apparatus comprising: A housing, a recess for a motor and / or a sensor module; an outlet port for gas flow; a removable elbow for gas flow; a housing comprising: A humidifier comprising: A heater and a chamber section for receiving a liquid chamber; a lever and / or detent to aid in the insertion and / or retention of the liquid chamber in and / or removal from the chamber compartment; A humidifier comprising: An apparatus comprising:

[0011] In some configurations, the device comprises a liquid chamber received within the chamber compartment, the liquid chamber comprising an inlet port connectable to the outlet port and an outlet port connectable to the removable elbow, In some configurations, at least one of the ports comprises one or more flexible fingers configured to provide a push-fit engagement between it and a port to which it is connectable.

[0012] In some configurations, the device comprises a user interface.

[0013] In some configurations, the chamber compartment is formed within the housing.

[0014] Furthermore, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the apparatus comprising: a housing having a recess; an outlet port for gas flow; Equipped with The recess is defined by at least one wall that is substantially continuous, gas impermeable and uninterrupted other than the gas flow path from the housing recess to the exit port.

[0015] In some configurations, the recess comprises a recess opening in an outer wall of the housing, the recess extending into the housing from said recess opening. In some configurations, the recess opening is at the bottom of the housing. Alternatively, the recess opening can be at a different portion of the housing, such as at the side, front or top of the housing. In some configurations, the recess opening is at the top of the housing.

[0016] In some configurations, the recess is for receiving a motor and / or a sensor module.

[0017] In some configurations, the device includes a motor and / or sensor module disposed within the recess.

[0018] In some configurations, the device is configured such that gas enters the housing through the recess and exits the housing through the outlet port. In some configurations, the gas is delivered by a gas passageway from the inlet to the housing to the outlet port. In some configurations, the gas passageway is provided by the motor and / or the sensor module.

[0019] In some configurations, the motor and / or sensor module includes a base, a sensing layer, and a cover layer assembled together to form a subassembly housing. In some configurations, the subassembly housing has a shape complementary to a shape of the recess.

[0020] In some configurations, the motor and / or sensor module includes a motor having an impeller, the motor disposed to deliver gas to the outlet port of the housing. In some configurations, the motor is disposed in a base of the subassembly.

[0021] In some configurations, the base is configured to close the recess opening when the subassembly is disposed in the recess.

[0022] In some configurations, the subassembly is maintained in place in the recess by fasteners, clips or quick release mechanisms.

[0023] In some configurations, the sensing layer includes a gas flow path having one or more sensors. In some configurations, the gas flow path is arranged to deliver gas to an outlet port of the housing. In some configurations, the gas is or includes oxygen. In some configurations, the gas includes a mixture of oxygen and ambient air.

[0024] In some configurations, the gas flow passage includes an elongated gas flow section.

[0025] In some configurations, the gas flow passage has a tangential inlet portion located at or adjacent to the inlet end of the elongated gas flow portion.

[0026] In some configurations, the motor and / or sensor module includes a gas flow path having a serpentine arrangement.

[0027] In some configurations, the housing includes electrical and / or electronic components and the recess is configured to isolate the electrical and / or electronic components from gas flow through or from the motor and / or sensor module. In some configurations, the gas flow path is provided by a gas flow tube, the gas flow tube extending through an outer tube that is integrally formed with a portion of the housing.

[0028] In some configurations, the device is configured such that if a leak occurs in any of the seals in the motor and / or sensor module, oxygen will leak into the ambient environment rather than into the electrical and / or electronic components.

[0029] In some configurations, a seal is provided between a portion of the motor and / or sensor module and a wall of the recess to seal the module relative to the housing. In some configurations, the seal comprises a soft seal, such as an O-ring. In some configurations, the seal is provided between a base of the motor and / or sensor module and a wall of the recess. In some configurations, the base supports a motor with an impeller.

[0030] In some configurations, the motor and / or sensor module are removable from the recess. In some alternative configurations, the motor and / or sensor module may not be removable from the recess.

[0031] In some configurations, the motor and / or sensor module includes a motor having an impeller and a gas exit port, the gas exit port being coupled to an inlet port of an adjacent component by a flexible cuff. In some configurations, the motor and / or sensor module includes a cuff support member configured to support the cuff. In some configurations, the cuff support member includes an upstanding cuff support member having an inwardly concave shape and configured to receive and support a periphery of the cuff. In some configurations, the gas exit port end of the cuff has an enlarged diameter that rests on an upper end of the cuff support member.

[0032] In some configurations, a gas that is or includes oxygen flows through the gas flow passage and / or the outlet port. In some configurations, the gas is isolated from the electrical and / or electronic components within the housing. In some configurations, the gas includes a mixture of oxygen and ambient air.

[0033] Further, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a motor and / or sensor module for use in the device is disclosed, the motor and / or sensor module having the features described above.

[0034] Furthermore, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the apparatus comprising: A humidifier comprising: A heater and a chamber section for receiving a liquid chamber; a lever to assist in inserting and / or retaining the liquid chamber in and / or removing it from the chamber compartment; A humidifier comprising: Equipped with.

[0035] In some configurations, the lever is configured to facilitate one of inserting, retaining, and removing the liquid chamber. In some embodiments, the lever is configured to facilitate two of inserting, retaining, and removing the liquid chamber. In some configurations, the lever is configured to facilitate all three of inserting, retaining, and removing the liquid chamber.

[0036] Different configurations may be configured to aid in one, two or all of inserting, retaining or removing the liquid chamber within the chamber compartment.

[0037] In some configurations, the chamber section includes opposing guide mechanisms that help guide the liquid chamber into position in the chamber section, hi some configurations, the opposing guide mechanisms include opposing guide rails that are positioned to interact with outwardly facing annular flanges of the liquid chamber.

[0038] In some configurations, the lever is configured to allow the liquid chamber to be inserted or removed from the chamber compartment when the lever is in a first position, and to inhibit or prevent removal of the liquid chamber from the chamber compartment when the lever is in a second position.

[0039] In some configurations, the lever comprises at least one liquid chamber engagement mechanism that engages a portion of the liquid chamber and engages the liquid chamber with the chamber compartment when the lever moves towards the second position. In some configurations, the device comprises two liquid chamber engagement mechanisms, the liquid chamber engagement mechanisms comprising inward protrusions.

[0040] In some configurations, the device includes a push-in engagement mechanism that holds the handle in the second position.

[0041] In some configurations, the lever includes a handle portion that allows the device to be transported when the lever is in the raised position.

[0042] In some configurations, the lever is pivotally connected to the housing of the device, hi some embodiments, only one side of the lever is pivotally connected to the housing.

[0043] In some configurations, the lever is pivotally and translatably connected to a housing of the device, hi some configurations, the device includes a lever retainer secured to a portion of the housing, the lever retainer and the portion of the housing together providing pivotal and translational movement of the lever relative to the housing.

[0044] In some configurations, the lever is configured to move relative to the housing with a varying radius of travel.

[0045] In some configurations, the lever includes a first pivot configured to move along the first pivot hole, and the lever includes a second pivot configured to move along the second pivot hole.

[0046] In some configurations, the first pivot hole is oriented in a substantially up-down direction relative to the housing. In some configurations, the first pivot hole is substantially straight.

[0047] In some configurations, the second pivot hole is oriented substantially in the front-to-rear direction of the device, hi some configurations, the second pivot hole is arcuate.

[0048] In some configurations, the device includes an engagement mechanism that holds the second pivot at or adjacent the rear end of the second pivot hole so as to hold the lever in a raised position.

[0049] In some configurations, the lever is configured to aid in removal of the liquid chamber from the chamber compartment.

[0050] Furthermore, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the apparatus comprising: A humidifier comprising: A heater and a chamber compartment for a liquid chamber; and the device comprises at least one detent to aid in the insertion and / or retention of the liquid chamber within the chamber compartment.

[0051] In some configurations, the device includes only one detent. In some configurations, the device includes two or more detents.

[0052] In some configurations, the chamber compartment includes opposing guide mechanisms that help guide the liquid chamber into position in the chamber compartment.

[0053] In some configurations, a detent is provided adjacent one of the guide mechanisms. In some configurations, two detents are provided adjacent each guide mechanism.

[0054] In some configurations, one of the guide mechanisms is provided with a detent. In some configurations, each guide mechanism is provided with two detents.

[0055] In some configurations, the guide mechanism includes opposing guide rails that are positioned to interact with outwardly facing annular flanges of the liquid chamber, and the detent includes an enlarged recess in one or both of the guide rails. In some configurations, one or both of the guide rails includes an inwardly facing ridge. In some configurations, the inwardly facing ridge is sufficiently resilient to deform as the liquid chamber is inserted between and / or removed from the guide rails.

[0056] In some configurations, one or both of the guide features includes a protrusion and the liquid chamber includes a recess that receives the protrusion.

[0057] Furthermore, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the apparatus comprising: Housing and a removable gas flow tube defining a gas flow path for the flow of gas; a removable retention cover configured such that when the removable cover is removed from the housing, the removable gas flow tube can be removed from the housing, and when the removable retention cover is connected to the housing, the removable gas flow tube cannot be removed from the housing; Equipped with.

[0058] In some configurations, the housing includes a retaining portion that receives the removable gas flow tube, and the removable retaining cover is configured such that when the removable cover is removed from the housing, the removable gas flow tube can be removed from the retaining portion, and when the removable retaining cover is connected to the housing, the removable gas flow tube cannot be removed from the retaining portion.

[0059] In some configurations, two separate actions are required to remove the removable gas flow tube from the retention portion. In some configurations, the removable retention cover is removable from the housing by moving the removable cover in a first direction, and the removable gas flow tube is removable from the retention portion by moving the removable gas flow tube in a second direction that is substantially transverse to the first direction for at least a portion of the movement. In some configurations, the removable gas flow tube comprises a gas port that mates with an outlet port of a liquid chamber that is positioned to be received in the chamber section of the housing, and the second direction corresponds to a direction of removal of the liquid chamber from the chamber section.

[0060] In some configurations, the removable gas flow tube comprises an electrical connector that is coupled to one or more sensor and / or power connectors of the removable gas flow tube. In some configurations, the electrical connector comprises a male connector portion that protrudes from a portion of the gas flow tube and the housing comprises a complementary female connector that receives the male connector when the gas flow tube is connected to the housing. In some configurations, the housing comprises a male connector portion and the removable gas flow tube comprises a complementary female connector that receives the male connector when the gas flow tube is connected to the housing.

[0061] In some configurations, the removable gas flow tube includes a port having an axis, and the electrical connector is oriented at an angle of about -15 degrees to about +30 degrees relative to the axis, in some configurations about 0 degrees to about +30 degrees relative to the axis, in some configurations about 0 degrees to about +15 degrees relative to the axis, and in some configurations about +15 degrees relative to the axis. In some configurations, the electrical connector is arranged to be oriented at a non-horizontal angle when in use. In some configurations, the electrical connector is oriented at a non-parallel and non-coaxial angle relative to the axis. In some configurations, the electrical connector is oriented at an angle of about -5 degrees to about -15 degrees relative to the axis, or about +5 degrees to about +30 degrees relative to the axis. In some configurations, the electrical connector is oriented at an angle of about +5 degrees to about +30 degrees relative to the axis, in some configurations about +5 degrees to about +15 degrees relative to the axis, and in some configurations about 15 degrees relative to the axis.

[0062] In some configurations, the electrical connector of the removable gas flow tube is coupled to one or more sensors that determine the temperature of the gas flowing through the gas flow tube.

[0063] In some configurations, the electrical connector of the removable gas flow tube is coupled to a power connector of the removable gas flow tube, the power connector is for coupling to and providing power to a heater wire of the patient breathing conduit, and the removable gas flow tube is configured to provide air and electrical connection to the patient conduit in a single operation when the patient breathing conduit is connected to the removable gas flow tube.

[0064] In some configurations, the removable gas flow tube includes a removable elbow.

[0065] Furthermore, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the apparatus comprising: a housing having an upper chassis and a lower chassis; a gas flow path defined within the housing between the upper chassis and the lower chassis; an electrical component within the housing; a continuous uninterrupted wall within the housing adapted to pneumatically isolate the electrical components from the gas flow path; Equipped with.

[0066] In some configurations, a gas that is or includes oxygen flows through the gas flow path. In some configurations, the gas is isolated from the electrical components. In some configurations, the gas includes a mixture of oxygen and ambient air.

[0067] In some configurations, the apparatus includes a motor having an impeller that delivers gas through the gas flow passage, the motor being pneumatically isolated from the electrical components. In some configurations, the wall, alone or in combination with one or more additional continuous unbroken walls, defines a recess that is pneumatically isolated from the electrical components, and the motor is disposed within the recess.

[0068] In some configurations, the motor is removable from the recess.

[0069] In some configurations, the pressure is relatively low upstream of the motor impeller and relatively high downstream of the motor impeller, and the motor includes electrical connections in the lower pressure region that are located upstream of the motor impeller.

[0070] In some configurations, the electrical component includes a printed circuit board.

[0071] Furthermore, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the apparatus comprising: A housing and a lever, only one side of the lever being movably connected to the housing. Equipped with.

[0072] In some configurations, the device includes a heater and a chamber compartment that receives the liquid chamber.

[0073] In some configurations, a fluid tube can be routed through a space between the lever and the housing when the lever is in the raised position.

[0074] In some configurations, the one side of the lever is pivotally connected to the housing.

[0075] In some configurations, when the lever is in a closed position, the lever surrounds a portion of the chamber section.

[0076] In some configurations, the one side of the lever is pivotally and translatably connected to the housing.

[0077] In some configurations, when the lever is in the closed position, a portion of the lever protrudes above the floor of the chamber compartment sufficiently to prevent the liquid chamber from being removed from the chamber compartment.

[0078] In some configurations, the one side of the lever is pivotally and translatably connected to the housing.

[0079] In some configurations, the device includes a lever retainer secured to a portion of the housing, the lever retainer and the portion of the housing providing for pivotal and translational movement of the lever relative to the housing.

[0080] In some configurations, the lever is configured to move relative to the housing with a varying radius of travel.

[0081] In some configurations, the lever includes a first pivot configured to move along the first pivot hole, and the lever includes a second pivot configured to move along the second pivot hole.

[0082] In some configurations, the first pivot hole is oriented in a substantially up-down direction relative to the housing. In some configurations, the first pivot hole is substantially straight.

[0083] In some configurations, the second pivot hole is oriented substantially in the front-to-rear direction of the device, hi some configurations, the second pivot hole is arcuate.

[0084] In some configurations, the device includes an engagement mechanism that holds the second pivot at or adjacent the rear end of the second pivot hole so as to hold the lever in a raised position.

[0085] In some configurations, the lever comprises an arm on said one side of the lever, the arm pivotally or pivotally and translatably connected to the housing, hi some configurations, the lever comprises a cross member connected to said arm.

[0086] In some configurations, when the lever is in the raised position, there is a space between the housing and the cross member opposite the arm of the lever.

[0087] In some configurations, the distal end of the lever is positioned such that when the lever is in the fully raised position, it is positioned generally above the center of mass of the device.

[0088] In some configurations, the lever includes one or more features that guide the liquid tube into the liquid chamber.

[0089] In some configurations, the lever is configured to assist in inserting and / or retaining and / or removing the liquid chamber within the chamber compartment.

[0090] In some configurations, the lever is gas injection molded.

[0091] In some configurations, the lever includes an external seal.

[0092] In some configurations, one face of the lever abuts a face of the housing throughout the movement of the lever from its fully lowered position to its fully raised position.

[0093] In some configurations, the lever and / or the housing include one or more magnets that hold the lever in the fully lowered and / or fully raised positions.

[0094] Furthermore, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the apparatus comprising: a housing having a recess in an outer wall; a connector mechanism disposed within the recess, the connector mechanism including one or more ports, the ports being at a non-parallel and non-perpendicular angle between 0 degrees and 90 degrees relative to the vertical axis; Equipped with.

[0095] That is, the port faces at least partially downward so that the insertion angle of the plug into the connector is at least partially upward.

[0096] In some configurations, the ports are at an angle between about 5 degrees and about 30 degrees relative to the vertical axis. In some configurations, the ports are at an angle between about 10 degrees and about 20 degrees relative to the vertical axis. In some configurations, the ports are at an angle between about 15 degrees relative to the vertical axis.

[0097] In some configurations, the walls of the recess are angled relative to the vertical at the insertion angle of the port.

[0098] In some configurations, the one or more ports include a communications port. In some configurations, the one or more ports include a USB port.

[0099] In some configurations, the or each port is provided with a lip.

[0100] In some configurations, the device includes a sharp edge or liquid deflector along the upper edge of the recess to encourage liquid to fall off the sharp edge / liquid deflector rather than proceed into the recess.

[0101] Furthermore, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the apparatus comprising: Housing and a removable gas flow tube for flow of gas, the removable gas flow tube including a port having an axis and an electrical connector that mates with a complementary connector when the gas flow tube is connected to the housing, the electrical connector being oriented at an angle of about -15 degrees to about +30 degrees relative to the axis; Equipped with.

[0102] In some configurations, the electrical connector is oriented at an angle between about 0 degrees and about +30 degrees relative to the axis, in some configurations, between about 0 degrees and about +15 degrees relative to the axis, and in some configurations, at about +15 degrees relative to the axis.

[0103] In some configurations, the electrical connector is arranged so that, in use, it is oriented at a non-horizontal angle.

[0104] In some configurations, the electrical connector is oriented at a non-parallel and non-coaxial angle relative to the axis. In some configurations, the electrical connector is oriented at an angle of about -5 degrees to about -15 degrees relative to the axis, or about +5 degrees to about +30 degrees relative to the axis. In some configurations, the electrical connector is oriented at an angle of about +5 degrees to about +30 degrees relative to the axis, in some configurations about +5 degrees to about +15 degrees relative to the axis, and in some configurations about 15 degrees relative to the axis.

[0105] In some configurations, the removable gas flow tube includes a removable elbow.

[0106] Furthermore, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the apparatus comprising: Housing and a removable gas flow tube for flow of gas, the removable gas flow tube having an electrical connector that mates with a complementary connector when the gas flow tube is connected to the housing, the body of the removable gas flow tube being overmolded onto the electrical connector; Equipped with.

[0107] In some configurations, the removable gas flow tube includes a power connector embedded in a portion of the overmolded gas flow tube body. In some configurations, the power connector includes an upwardly projecting pin connector for coupling to and providing power to a heater wire of the patient breathing conduit. In some configurations, the pin connector extends substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the gas exit port of the elbow.

[0108] In some configurations, the electrical connector includes a PCB electrical connector.

[0109] In some configurations, the removable gas flow tube includes a removable elbow.

[0110] Furthermore, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the apparatus comprising: Housing and a removable gas flow tube for flow of gas, the removable gas flow tube defining a gas flow passage and including an internal pool region in communication with the gas flow passage to allow for pooling of liquid; Equipped with.

[0111] In some configurations, the pool region is provided by an enlarged region in the gas flow passage.

[0112] In some configurations, the enlarged region is a recess in a horizontal portion of the gas flow passage.

[0113] In some configurations, the gas flow tube includes a temperature sensor located adjacent the pool region, the temperature sensor positioned to determine a temperature that is typical of the gas flow path and / or characteristic of the gas.

[0114] In some configurations, the temperature sensor is used to estimate the humidity of the gas.

[0115] In some configurations, the removable gas flow tube includes a removable elbow, hi some configurations, the pool area is provided at an interface of the first and second ports of the elbow.

[0116] Furthermore, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the apparatus comprising: Housing and a removable gas flow tube defining a gas flow path for the flow of gas, the removable gas flow tube including a PCB electrical connector that mates with a complementary connector when the gas flow tube is connected to the housing; Equipped with.

[0117] In some configurations, a first end of the removable gas flow tube comprises a gas port that mates with an exit gas port of the liquid chamber, and a second end of the removable gas flow tube is configured to connect to a patient breathing conduit.

[0118] In some configurations, the PCB electrical connector portion includes multiple connector portions at one end that engage complementary conductors of a female connector. Alternatively, in some configurations, the removable gas flow tube includes a female connector that receives a complementary male connector.

[0119] In some configurations, the removable gas flow tube includes one or more electrical connectors that couple to and provide power to the heater wires of the patient breathing conduit, hi some configurations, the electrical connectors are in electrical communication with a connector portion of the PCB electrical connector.

[0120] In some configurations, the PCB electrical connector includes one or more surface mounted temperature sensors. The one or more temperature sensors may be, for example, one or more thermocouples, one or more digital temperature sensors, or one or more thermistors. In some configurations, the one or more temperature sensors are in electrical communication with a connector portion of the PCB electrical connector. In some configurations, the one or more temperature sensors are embedded in the body of the gas flow tube.

[0121] In some configurations, the removable gas flow tube comprises a device configured to provide functions including one or more of identification, calibration functions, or information capture. In some configurations, the device is configured to provide information including one or more of tracking data, how much the removable gas flow tube has been used, when the removable gas flow tube was first used, determining the removable gas flow tube life (e.g., based on date of manufacture), how many times the removable gas flow tube has been used, determining and logging the connection / disconnection of the removable gas flow tube, determining whether disinfection has occurred, how many times the removable gas flow tube has been disinfected, time of use since last disinfection, when the removable gas flow tube should be disinfected, power level, unique ID, calibration, when the removable gas flow tube should be replaced. In some configurations, the removable gas flow tube can have a specified service life stored in the device, for example, up to five years from manufacture. In some configurations, the removable gas flow tube can store in the device a specified maximum number of disinfection cycles before the removable tube should be replaced. For example, the maximum number of sterilization cycles may be a specified number of sterilization cycles / week for a specified number of weeks. For example, for a removable gas flow tube with a maximum service life of 1 year, the maximum number of sterilization cycles may be 52 cycles, i.e., 1 cycle / week for 1 year. As another example, for a removable gas flow tube / elbow with a maximum service life of 5 years, the maximum number of sterilization cycles may be 260 cycles, i.e., 1 cycle / week for 5 years.

[0122] In some configurations, the device may include one or more of a microprocessor, a memory, or a microprocessor with an embedded memory. In some configurations, the device is an EEPROM. In some configurations, the device may be a flash memory or some other type of memory. In some configurations, the device may be configured to store functional data or to communicate functional data to a controller of the apparatus via a connector portion or via a suitable wireless transmission protocol such as, for example, WI-FI, Bluetooth, or GSM.

[0123] In some configurations, the ports of the removable gas flow tube include a T-seal or an L-seal. In some configurations, the ports of the removable gas flow tube include an O-ring.

[0124] In some configurations, the electronic circuitry of the removable gas flow tube is sealed from ingress of liquids and / or gases. In some configurations, the electronic circuitry is sealed by potting.

[0125] In some configurations, the removable gas flow tube includes a removable elbow. In some configurations, the temperature sensor is disposed adjacent an interface of the first and second ports of the elbow.

[0126] Furthermore, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the apparatus comprising: a motor and / or sensor module comprising a motor having an impeller and a gas outlet port, an outlet gas flow path and a sensing layer, the sensing layer having a sensing and gas flow path, the sensing and gas flow path comprising a gas inlet port and a gas outlet port for receiving gas from the gas outlet port; Equipped with The pressure drop coefficient from the gas outlet port to the gas flow passage and the gas outlet port of the detection layer is approximately 5 mPa (Lmin -1 ) -2 ~Approx. 50mPa(Lmin -1 ) -2 It is.

[0127] In some configurations, the pressure drop coefficient is approximately 10 mPa (Lmin -1 ) -2 ~Approx. 20mPa(Lmin -1 ) -2 In some configurations, the pressure drop coefficient is about 15 mPa (Lmin -1 ) -2 It is.

[0128] In some configurations, the gas outlet port is coupled to the gas inlet port by a flexible cuff. In some configurations, the motor and / or sensor module comprises a cuff support member configured to support the cuff. In some configurations, the cuff support member comprises an upstanding cuff support member having an inwardly concave shape and configured to receive and support a periphery of the cuff. In some configurations, the gas outlet port end of the cuff has an enlarged diameter that rests on an upper end of the cuff support member.

[0129] In some configurations, the motor and / or sensor module are removable from the recess. In some alternative configurations, the motor and / or sensor module may not be removable from the recess.

[0130] Further, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a motor and / or sensor module for use in the device is disclosed, the motor and / or sensor module having the features described above.

[0131] Furthermore, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the apparatus comprising: A shroud for receiving an electrical component, the shroud being configured to at least partially enclose and protect the electrical component and to support the electrical component but allow movement of the electrical component in at least one dimension within the shroud. Equipped with.

[0132] In some configurations, the shroud is configured to permit movement of the electrical components in one dimension, hi some configurations, the shroud is configured to permit movement of the electrical components in a first substantially horizontal dimension or in a second substantially horizontal dimension.

[0133] In some configurations, the shroud is configured to permit movement of the electrical components in two dimensions: In some configurations, the shroud is configured to permit movement of the electrical components in a first substantially horizontal dimension and in a second substantially horizontal dimension.

[0134] In some configurations, the shroud is configured to permit movement of the electrical components in three dimensions: in a first substantially horizontal dimension, in a second substantially horizontal dimension, and in a substantially vertical dimension.

[0135] In some configurations, the shroud is configured to permit limited movement of the electrical components in at least one dimension, the limited movement being sufficient to accommodate allowable misalignment of the components.

[0136] In some configurations, the electrical component is an electrical connector.

[0137] In some configurations, the shroud is provided to the device that delivers the flow of gas. In some configurations, the shroud is provided to the motor and / or sensor module.

[0138] Furthermore, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the apparatus comprising: Housing and a heater within the housing; a chamber compartment within the housing for receiving a liquid chamber; a lever movably connected to the housing, the lever encircling a portion of the chamber section when in a closed position; Equipped with.

[0139] In some configurations, when the lever is in the closed position, a portion of the lever protrudes above the floor of the chamber compartment sufficiently to prevent the liquid chamber from being removed from the chamber compartment.

[0140] In some configurations, only one side of the lever is movably connected to the housing.

[0141] In some configurations, the lever is pivotally connected to the housing.

[0142] Furthermore, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the apparatus comprising: a gas flow tube for flow of gas, the gas flow tube being configured to couple from a flow generator to a gas outlet, the fitting to the gas outlet being within an outer tube that allows for exhaust of gas to the surrounding environment but is pneumatically isolated from the electrical components by a continuous unbroken wall; Equipped with.

[0143] In some configurations, the flow generator includes a motor having an impeller, the motor being pneumatically isolated from the electrical components by a continuous, unbroken wall.

[0144] In some configurations, the wall, alone or in combination with one or more additional continuous unbroken walls, defines a recess that is pneumatically isolated from the electrical components and the motor is disposed within the recess.

[0145] In some configurations, the pressure is relatively low upstream of the motor impeller and relatively high downstream of the motor impeller, and the motor includes electrical connections in the lower pressure region that are located upstream of the motor impeller.

[0146] In some configurations, the joint between the gas flow tube and the gas outlet in the conduit comprises at least one seal between the gas flow tube, the gas outlet, and / or the outer tube. In some configurations, the at least one seal allows for lateral movement of the gas outlet within the outer tube. The seal can include, for example, a face seal between the gas outlet and the gas flow tube. In some configurations, the at least one seal allows for both lateral and axial movement of the gas outlet within the outer tube. The seal can include, for example, a bellows seal. Thus, depending on the configuration, the seal can include, for example, an O-ring, a T-seal, an L-seal, a face seal, or foam.

[0147] Furthermore, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the apparatus comprising: A housing having an upper chassis and a lower chassis and a substantially continuous tongue and groove arrangement between the upper chassis and the lower chassis. Equipped with.

[0148] In some configurations, the upper chassis includes left and right side walls and the lower chassis includes left and right side walls, with a tongue and groove mechanism provided between the left and right side walls of the upper and lower chassis.

[0149] In some configurations, the device includes a chamber compartment that receives the liquid chamber, and the tongue and groove feature is provided between the upper and lower chassis around substantially the entire periphery of the chamber compartment.

[0150] In some configurations, the device includes at least one rabbet with a chamfered edge. In some configurations, the device includes at least one rabbet feature with a space between a portion of the rabbet and a portion of the groove.

[0151] Furthermore, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the apparatus comprising: Housing and a mount for attaching the device to a stand or rod; a protrusion configured to tilt the device towards the stand or rod when the device is attached to the stand or rod; Equipped with.

[0152] In some configurations, the mount comprises a tongue and the projection is provided on the tongue.

[0153] In some configurations, the protrusion is configured to tilt the device towards the stand at a suitable angle, such as, for example, 1°-15°, or 1°-10°, or 1°-7°, or 1°-5°, or 1°-2°.

[0154] Furthermore, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the apparatus comprising: Housing and a mount for attaching the device to a stand or rod, the mount being integrally formed with a portion of the housing; Equipped with.

[0155] Furthermore, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the apparatus comprising: Housing and a gas flow tube defining a gas flow path for the flow of gas, the gas flow tube including a T-seal or L-seal that serves to seal a port of the gas flow tube to another component; Equipped with.

[0156] Furthermore, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the apparatus comprising: Housing and a recess in the housing for receiving the motor and / or sensor module; a component that provides a function to the device and is securable to the housing, the component comprising a retention mechanism arranged to extend under a base of the motor and / or sensor module to maintain the motor and / or sensor module in place within the recess of the housing; Equipped with.

[0157] In some configurations, the component includes a battery securable to the housing. In some configurations, the battery includes a base flange or other protruding feature arranged to extend below a base of the motor and / or sensor module. In some configurations, the component includes distinct functional components.

[0158] Furthermore, in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the apparatus comprising: Housing and an electrical connector comprising a power receiving socket within a housing arranged to receive a plug of a power cord by movement of the plug in a first direction, the socket comprising a retaining portion configured to maintain the plug in engagement with the socket by movement in a second direction substantially transverse to the first direction; Equipped with.

[0159] In some configurations, the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction, hi some configurations, the first direction is vertical and the second direction is horizontal.

[0160] Features from one or more embodiments may be combined with features from one or more other embodiments, and further, two or more embodiments may be used together during the process of providing respiratory assistance to a patient.

[0161] As used herein, the term "comprising" means "consisting at least in part of." When interpreting each statement in this specification that contains the term "comprising," there may be features present other than those preceding the term. Related terms such as "comprise" and "comprises" should be interpreted in the same manner.

[0162] It is to be understood that alternative embodiments may include any or all combinations of two or more of the parts, elements or features illustrated, described or referred to herein.

[0163] The invention can also be broadly stated to consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or shown in the specification of this application, individually or collectively, and in any or all combinations of any two or more of said parts, elements or features.

[0164] Those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains will encounter many modifications of the structure and widely different embodiments and applications of the present invention without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims. The disclosures and descriptions herein are merely illustrative and are not intended to be limiting in any sense. In this specification, when a specific integral having a known equivalent in the art to which the present invention pertains is mentioned, such known equivalent is deemed to be incorporated into this specification as if it were individually set forth.

[0165] Specific embodiments and modifications thereof will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the detailed description herein, which refers to the following figures. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0166] [Figure 1] 1 shows in schematic form a respiratory support device in the form of a flow therapy device; [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a front view of the flow therapy device with the humidifier chamber in place and the handle / lever raised. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a top view corresponding to FIG. 2. [Figure 4] FIG. 3 is a right side view corresponding to FIG. 2. [Diagram 5] FIG. 3 is a left side view corresponding to FIG. 2. [Figure 6] FIG. 3 is a rear view corresponding to FIG. 2. [Figure 7] FIG. 3 is a front left perspective view corresponding to FIG. 2. [Figure 8] FIG. 3 is a front right perspective view corresponding to FIG. 2. [Figure 9] FIG. 3 is a bottom view corresponding to FIG. 2. [Figure 10] 1 shows a first configuration of the air and oxygen inlet mechanism of the flow therapy device. [Figure 11] 1 illustrates a second configuration of the air and oxygen inlet mechanism of the flow therapy device. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view showing further details of the air and oxygen inlet arrangement of FIG. [Figure 13]FIG. 12 is another cross-sectional view showing further details of the air and oxygen inlet mechanism of FIG. [Figure 14] FIG. 12 is a longitudinal section showing further details of the air and oxygen inlet arrangement of FIG. [Figure 15] FIG. 1 is an exploded view of upper and lower chassis components of the main housing of the flow treatment device. [Figure 16] FIG. 13 is a front left perspective view of the lower chassis of the main housing showing the housing that receives the motor and / or sensor module subassembly. [Figure 17a] FIG. 13 is a first bottom perspective view of the main housing of the flow treatment device showing a recess within the housing for a motor and / or sensor module subassembly. [Figure 17b] FIG. 13 is a second bottom perspective view of the main housing of the flow treatment device showing recesses for the motor and / or sensor module subassembly. [Figure 18] FIG. 1 is an exploded rear perspective view illustrating gas flow paths through the flow treatment device, generally indicated by arrows. [Figure 19] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the motor and / or sensor subassembly, the underside of the main housing, and the fixed elbow of the flow treatment device. [Figure 20] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of components of a motor and / or sensor subassembly with the gas flow path through the subassembly indicated generally by arrows. [Figure 21] FIG. 13 is a bottom view of the cover and sensing PCB of the motor and / or sensor subassembly showing the location of the sensors. [Figure 22a] FIG. 13 is a rear perspective view of a flow therapy device cut adjacent the rear edge of the device showing the arrangement of portions of the main housing that provide recesses to receive the motor and / or sensor subassembly. [Figure 22b] FIG. 22b is a view similar to FIG. 22a but cut closer to the front of the device. [Figure 22c] A view similar to FIG. 22b but cut closer to the front of the device. [Fig. 22d]A view similar to FIG. 22c but cut closer to the front of the device. [Figure 22e] A view similar to FIG. 22d but cut closer to the front of the device. [Fig. 22f] A view similar to FIG. 22e but cut closer to the front of the device. [Figure 23] FIG. 13 is a front left perspective view of a fluid chamber used in a flow treatment device. [Figure 24] FIG. 1 is a front left perspective view of some of the components of the flow treatment device. [Diagram 25] FIG. 25 is a view similar to FIG. 24, but showing the removable elbow retaining cover removed from the main housing. [Figure 26a] FIG. 26 is a top perspective view of the removable elbow retaining cover of FIG. 25. [Figure 26b] FIG. 26 is a bottom perspective view of the removable elbow retaining cover of FIG. 25. [Figure 27] FIG. 13 is a top perspective view of the removable elbow as it is installed in the main housing. [Figure 28] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a removable elbow. [Figure 29] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a removable elbow showing electrical components and gas flow paths. [Diagram 30] FIG. 13 is an exploded view showing the removable elbow separated from the electrical connector of the main housing. [Diagram 31] 1 illustrates an exemplary electrical connector for use within the main housing. [Diagram 32] FIG. 32 is an exploded view of the connector guard of the electrical connector of FIGS. 30 and 31. [Diagram 33] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a flow therapy device showing the humidifier compartment in a first configuration receiving a humidifier chamber with the handle / lever in a raised position. [Diagram 34] FIG. 34 is a view similar to FIG. 33, but showing the humidifier chamber partially positioned within the humidifier compartment and positioned by guide rails. [Diagram 35]FIG. 35 is similar to FIG. 34, but with the handle / lever partially lowered to further move the humidifier chamber into engagement with the humidifier section. [Diagram 36] 36 is a view similar to FIG. 35 with the handle / lever further down. [Figure 37] 37 is a view similar to FIG. 36 with the handle / lever almost fully lowered. [Figure 38] 38 is a view similar to FIG. 37 with the handle / lever fully lowered and engaged with the retention mechanism. [Figure 39] A front top perspective view of a flow therapy device showing the humidifier compartment in a second configuration to receive a humidification chamber, having an alternative configuration of guide rails with detents to position the chamber within the humidifier compartment, and a handle / lever configured to aid in removal of the liquid chamber from the chamber compartment. [Diagram 40] FIG. 13 is a front top perspective view of the left guide rail and detent; [Diagram 41] FIG. 13 is a front top perspective view of the right guide rail and detent; [Diagram 42] FIG. 13 is a top perspective view of a retention mechanism that engages the handle / lever in a lowered or closed position. [Diagram 43] FIG. 43 is a front top perspective view of the left side of the device of FIGS. 39-42, showing the humidifier chamber engaged with the detent. [Diagram 44] FIG. 44 is a front top perspective view of the device of FIGS. 39-43, showing the handle / lever of an alternative configuration in a raised position. [Diagram 45] FIG. 45 is a front top perspective view of the device of FIG. 44 showing the handle / lever in the lowered or closed position. [Figure 46] FIG. 45 is a front top perspective view of the left side of the device of FIG. 44 showing the handle / lever details. [Figure 47] FIG. 45 is a front top perspective view of the left side of the device of FIG. 44 showing an exemplary pivot detail of the handle / lever. [Figure 48] FIG. 13 is a front top perspective view showing details of the handle / lever pivot. [Figure 49]FIG. 45 is a front top perspective view of the left side of the device of FIG. 44 with the handle / lever in the raised position. [Figure 50] FIG. 45 is a front, top perspective view of the device of FIG. 44 showing the chamber disposed within the humidifier compartment and with the handle / lever in the raised position. [Figure 51] 45 shows a chamber located beneath the guide rails in the apparatus of FIG. 44. [Figure 52] FIG. 45 is a front top perspective view of the device of FIG. 44 with the chamber positioned directly below the guide rail and the handle / lever in the fully lowered or closed position. [Figure 53] FIG. 13 is a user interface display of the flow treatment device of any one of the preceding figures. [Figure 54] FIG. 54 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the user interface display of FIG. 53 showing the button configuration. [Figure 55] FIG. 13 is a front top perspective view of a flow treatment device showing an alternative handle / lever configuration with the handle / lever in the lowered or closed position. [Figure 56] FIG. 56 corresponds to FIG. 55, but with the handle / lever in a partially raised position. [Figure 57] FIG. 56 corresponds to FIG. 55, but with the handle in the fully raised or open position and the liquid chamber disposed within the chamber compartment. [Figure 58] FIG. 1 is a right side view of the flow therapy device with the handle / lever in a partially raised position and the fluid chamber disposed within the chamber compartment. [Figure 59] FIG. 56 corresponds to FIG. 55, but shows the liquid chamber disposed within the chamber compartment. [Figure 60] 60 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the flow treatment device of FIGS. 55-59 showing the pivot attachment of the handle / lever to the main housing when the handle / lever is in the down or closed position. [Figure 61] FIG. 61 corresponds to FIG. 60 but with the handle / lever in a partially raised position. [Figure 62] FIG. 61 corresponds to FIG. 60 but with the handle / lever in the fully raised or open position. [Figure 63] FIG. 62 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the handle / lever in the position of FIG. 61. [Figure 64] 64 corresponds to FIG. 63 but with the handle / lever in the fully raised or open position of FIG. 62. [Figure 65] FIG. 13 is a diagram of a motor used in the motor and / or sensor module subassembly of FIGS. 19-21 or 78-101. [Figure 66] FIG. 13 is a side perspective view of an alternative removable elbow for use in a flow therapy device, the elbow being shown removed from the main housing. [Figure 67] FIG. 67 is a front / side perspective view of the removable elbow of FIG. [Figure 68] FIG. 67 is a rear underside perspective view of the removable elbow of FIG. [Figure 69] FIG. 67 is a partial cross-sectional view of the removable elbow of FIG. 66. [Figure 70] FIG. 67 is a top perspective view of the PCB electrical connector of the removable elbow of FIG. [Figure 71] FIG. 71 is a top plan view of the PCB electrical connector of FIG. [Figure 72] FIG. 13 is a side perspective view of another alternative removable elbow for use in a flow treatment device, the elbow being shown removed from the main housing. [Figure 73] FIG. 73 is a rear underside perspective view of the removable elbow of FIG. 72. [Figure 74] FIG. 73 is a front / side perspective view of the removable elbow of FIG. 72. [Figure 75] FIG. 73 is a top plan view of the PCB electrical connector of the removable elbow of FIG. [Figure 76] FIG. 73 is a partial front top perspective view of a carrier for a display and user interface module, the carrier being part of the main housing of one of the flow treatment devices, the elbow receiver being configured to receive the removable elbow of FIG. 66 or FIG. 72. [Figure 77] FIG. 77 is a front top perspective view of the carrier and elbow receiver of FIG. 76; [Figure 78] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a motor and / or sensor subassembly for use in a flow therapy device. [Figure 79] FIG. 79 is a perspective view of the base of the motor and / or sensor subassembly of FIG. [Figure 80] FIG. 80 is another perspective view of the base of the motor and / or sensor subassembly of FIG. 79. [Figure 81] FIG. 81 is a top perspective view of the base of FIGS. 79 and 80 assembled with the motor / blower unit. [Figure 82] FIG. 82 is another top perspective view of the base and motor / blower unit of FIG. 81. [Figure 83] FIG. 79 is a bottom view of the base of the motor and / or sensor subassembly of FIG. [Figure 84] FIG. 79 is a perspective view of the motor and / or sensor subassembly of FIG. 78, with a portion of the cover layer not shown, showing the coupling tube or cuff. [Figure 85] FIG. 79 is a perspective view of the mid-section of the motor and / or sensor subassembly of FIG. 78, showing generally the top of the gas flow path from the cover layer. [Figure 86] FIG. 86 is a top view of a portion of the mid-section of FIG. [Figure 87] FIG. 87 is a top perspective view of the portion of FIG. 86. [Figure 88] FIG. 79 is a top perspective view of the outlet gas flow passage and sensing layer of the motor and / or sensor subassembly of FIG. 78, which forms the lower portion of the gas flow passage. [Figure 89] FIG. 79 is a bottom perspective view of the cover layer of the motor and / or sensor subassembly of FIG. 78, forming the upper portion of the gas flow path. [Figure 90] FIG. 79 is a rear top perspective view of the mid-section of the motor and / or sensor subassembly of FIG. 78 with the PCB in place, showing generally the top of the gas flow paths from the cover layer. [Figure 91] FIG. 79 is a rear top perspective view of the mid-section of the motor and / or sensor subassembly of FIG. 78 without the PCB in place. [Figure 92] FIG. 79 is a bottom perspective view of the outlet gas flow path and sensing layer of the motor and / or sensor subassembly of FIG. 78. [Figure 93] FIG. 79 is a top view of the cover layer of the motor and sensor subassembly of FIG. [Figure 94] FIG. 93 is a top perspective view of the cover layer of FIG. 92. [Figure 95] FIG. 94 is a bottom view of the cover layer of FIG. 93. [Figure 96] FIG. 79 is a schematic diagram of a sealing mechanism between a gas exit port of the motor and / or sensor subassembly of FIG. 78 and a portion of the housing of the flow treatment device of FIG. 1. [Figure 97] 79 illustrates a gas flow path through the motor and / or sensor subassembly of FIG. 78. [Figure 98] FIG. 79 is another top perspective view of the motor and / or sensor subassembly of FIG. [Figure 99] FIG. 79 is a schematic diagram of a sealing mechanism for the PCB of the motor and / or sensor subassembly of FIG. [Figure 100] FIG. 79 is a top perspective view of the PCB of the motor and / or sensor subassembly of FIG. [Figure 101] FIG. 13 is a front top perspective view of a flow treatment device showing an alternative handle / lever mechanism with the handle / lever in the lowered or closed position. [Figure 102] FIG. 102 is an exploded front top perspective view of some of the components of the device of FIG. [Figure 103] FIG. 102 is an exploded bottom perspective view of some of the components of the device of FIG. 101. [Figure 104] FIG. 102 is an exploded top perspective view of some of the components of the device of FIG. [Figure 105] FIG. 102 is a left side view of some of the components of the handle / lever mechanism of the device of FIG. [Fig. 106] FIG. 106 is a left side view similar to FIG. 105 but showing the path of movement of the handle / lever pivot; [Figure 107]FIG. 102 is a top perspective view showing the handle / lever of the device of FIG. 101. [Figure 108] FIG. 102 is a left side view of the portion of the device of FIG. 101 with the handle / lever in a substantially lowered or closed position. [Fig. 109] 109 is a view corresponding to FIG. 108, but with the handle / lever in a partially raised position. [Figure 110] A corresponding view to FIG. 108, but with the handle / lever in a further raised position. [Figure 111] FIG. 109 corresponds to FIG. 108, but with the handle / lever in the fully raised position. [Figure 112] FIG. 102 is a detailed view of a portion of the handle / lever mechanism of FIG. 101 showing details of the step feature in the pivot hole for the front pivot of the handle / lever mechanism. [Figure 113] 102 is a plot showing the path of travel of the distal end of the handle / lever mechanism of the device of FIG. 101. [Fig. 114] 113 shows a second pivot hole of an alternative arrangement to that of FIGS. 106 and 108-112. FIG. [Figure 115] FIG. 102 is a left-hand cross-sectional view showing details of the handle / lever mechanism of the device of FIG. 101, with the handle / lever in a partially raised position. [Fig. 116] A view corresponding to FIG. 115 with the handle / lever in the fully raised position. [Figure 117] FIG. 102 is a left front top perspective view of the device of FIG. 101 showing the handle / lever in a partially raised position. [Fig. 118] FIG. 102 is a front top perspective view showing the housing, elbow mechanism and removable retaining cover of the device of FIG. 101. [Figure 119] FIG. 119 is a front underside view showing details of the removable retaining cover of FIG. 118. [Figure 120] FIG. 102 is a right front top perspective view showing the housing and alternative removable retaining cover of the device of FIG. 101, with the retaining cover removed from the housing. [Figure 121] FIG. 121 is similar to FIG. 120, but showing the retaining cover engaged with the housing. [Figure 122] FIG. 102 is a top perspective view of an electrical connector arrangement of the device of FIG. 101. [Figure 123] FIG. 123 is another top perspective view of the electrical connector arrangement of FIG. 122. [Figure 124] FIG. 123 is a bottom perspective view of the electrical connector arrangement of FIG. 122. [Fig. 125] FIG. 123 is a top perspective view of the electrical connector arrangement of FIG. 122, showing a step of coupling the power cord to a socket. [Fig. 126] FIG. 102 is a perspective view of a portion of the interior of the device of FIG. 101, showing the power harness guide. [Figure 127] FIG. 127 is a perspective view of the power harness guide of FIG. 126. [Figure 128] 128 is a perspective view of the power harness guide from the opposite side to FIG. 127. [Figure 129] FIG. 102 is a bottom rear perspective view of the area of ​​the housing of the device of FIG. 101 that receives the power cord. [Fig. 130] FIG. 130 is a top front perspective view from the inside of the housing, showing the area of ​​the housing corresponding to the area of ​​FIG. 129. [Fig. 131] FIG. 102 is a side cross-sectional view through a USB connector arrangement of the device of FIG. [Fig. 132] 131. FIG. 132 is a rear perspective view of the device of FIG. 101, showing the battery pack and USB connector mechanism of FIG. [Fig. 133] FIG. 102 is a side perspective view of the device of FIG. 101, showing an integral mount for attaching the device to a rod or stand. [Fig. 134] FIG. 102 is a schematic side perspective view of the device of FIG. 101 mounted on a rod or stand. [Fig. 135] FIG. 102 is a perspective view of a PCB connector of the device of FIG. 101, the connector having an overmolded collar. [Fig. 136] 135 is a front top perspective view of the lower chassis of the device of FIG. 101, showing an exemplary arrangement of the PCB connector of FIG. 135. [Fig. 137] FIG. 73 is a side view of the removable elbow of FIG. 72 with a T-seal in place on the elbow. [Fig. 138] FIG. 138 is a cross-sectional view of the T-seal shown in FIG. 137 when not in place over an elbow. [Figure 139] FIG. 139 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the T-seal of FIGS. 137 and 138 showing exemplary dimensions. [Fig. 140] 13A-13C are perspective views of an alternative configuration removable elbow and an alternative configuration T-seal for use in a flow treatment device. [Fig. 141] FIG. 141 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the removable elbow and T-seal of FIG. 140. [Fig. 142] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an alternative configuration of a removable elbow and adapted T-seal similar to an L-seal for use in a flow therapy device. [Fig. 143] FIG. 143 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the removable elbow and seal of FIG. 142. [Fig. 144] 13 shows the inlet port of the removable elbow coupled to the outlet port of the liquid chamber, illustrating the mechanical standoff mechanism. [Fig. 145] 102 is a rear underside perspective view of an alternative configuration of the lower chassis of the flow treatment device of FIG. 101 in the area where the electrical connector is located. FIG. [Fig. 146] FIG. 146 is a bottom perspective view of the retainer of the electrical connector of FIG. 145; [Fig. 147] FIG. 147 is a top view of the holder of FIG. 146. [Fig. 148] FIG. 13 is a front top perspective view of an alternative inlet elbow configuration for use in a flow treatment device. [Figure 149] FIG. 149 is a rear underside perspective view of the inlet elbow of FIG. [Fig. 150] FIG. 150 is a front perspective view of the inlet elbow of FIGS. 148 and 149, showing the one-way valve. [Fig. 151] FIG. 102 is a front top perspective view of an alternative lower chassis of the flow treatment device of FIG. 101 showing a tongue and / or groove feature. [Fig. 152] FIG. 152 is another front top perspective view of the lower chassis of FIG. 151 , showing the tongue and / or groove feature. [Fig. 153]FIG. 102 is a rear underside perspective view of an alternative upper chassis of the flow treatment device of FIG. 101 showing the tongue and / or groove feature. [Fig. 154] FIG. 154 is a front underside perspective view of the upper chassis of FIG. 153, showing the tongue and / or groove feature. [Fig. 155] 155 is a side partial cross-sectional view of the flow treatment device of FIG. 101 with the upper and lower chassis of FIGS. 151-154 showing the location of the tongue and groove mechanism. FIG. [Fig. 156] FIG. 11 is a view of detail D156 showing the tongue and groove mechanism in the area of ​​the battery. [Fig. 157] FIG. 14 is a view of detail D157 showing the tongue and groove mechanism. [Fig. 158] FIG. 11 is a view of detail D158 showing the tongue and groove mechanism. [Fig. 159] FIG. 14 is a view of detail D159 showing the tongue and groove mechanism. [Fig. 160] FIG. 16 is a detail D160 of the tongue and groove mechanism in the area of ​​the communication connector mechanism. [Fig. 161] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of one configuration of a tongue and groove mechanism for use in a flow treatment device. [Fig. 162] 13 is a schematic diagram of another configuration of a tongue and groove mechanism for use in a flow treatment device. FIG. [Fig. 163] FIG. 102 is a rear view of the device of FIG. 101 showing the larger battery in place on the rear of the device. [Fig. 164] FIG. 164 is a bottom rear perspective view of the device with the battery shown in FIG. 163 showing the overlap between the base flange of the battery and the motor and / or sensor module. [Fig. 165] FIG. 13 is a side perspective view of an alternative removable elbow for use in a flow treatment device. [Fig. 166] FIG. 166 is a bottom view of the removable elbow of FIG. [Fig. 167] FIG. 167 is a top perspective view of the PCB electrical connector of the removable elbow of FIG. 166; [Fig. 168] FIG. 168 is a plan view of the PCB electrical connector of FIG. 167; [Fig. 169]FIG. 166 is a partially transparent top perspective view of the removable elbow of FIG. 165 showing some details of the PCB electrical connector. [Fig. 170] FIG. 166 is a partially transparent top perspective view of the removable elbow of FIG. 165 showing alternative details of the PCB electrical connector. [Fig. 171] FIG. 166 is a partially transparent top perspective view of the removable elbow of FIG. 165 showing alternative details of the PCB electrical connector. [Fig. 172] FIG. 166 is a partially transparent top perspective view of the removable elbow of FIG. 165 showing alternative details of the PCB electrical connector. [Fig. 173] 1 is a top perspective view of a carrier for a display and user interface module, the carrier being part of the main housing of one of the flow treatment devices. [Fig. 174] FIG. 174 is a bottom perspective view of the carrier of FIG. 173; [Fig. 175] FIG. 175 is a bottom perspective view of a removable retaining cover for use with the carrier of FIGS. 173 and 174; [Fig. 176] 176 is a perspective view of a flexible tether connecting the removable retaining cover of FIG. 175 to the carrier of FIGS. 173 and 174. FIG. [Fig. 177] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a motor and / or sensor subassembly for use in a flow therapy device. [Fig. 178] FIG. 13 is a top perspective view of the base of the motor and / or sensor assembly. [Fig. 179] FIG. 13 is a top perspective view of the base and mid-section of the motor and / or sensor subassembly. [Fig. 180] FIG. 13 is a bottom view of the mid-section of the motor and / or sensor subassembly. [Fig. 181] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a mid-section of the motor and / or sensor subassembly. [Fig. 182] FIG. 13 is a top perspective view of the cover layer of the motor and / or sensor subassembly. [Fig. 183]FIG. 13 is a partial exploded view of some of the components of the motor and / or sensor subassembly. [Fig. 184] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a patient breathing conduit arrangement utilizing a T-seal or an L-seal. [Fig. 185] 185 shows the inside of the connector of the patient breathing conduit system of FIG. 184. [Fig. 186] FIG. 186 is a partial perspective view of the connector of the patient breathing conduit arrangement of FIGS. 184 and 185. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0167] 1.Overview A flow therapy device 10 is shown in Figure 1. Generally, the device 10 comprises a main housing 100 that houses a flow generator 11 in the form of a motor / impeller arrangement, an optional humidifier 12, a controller 13, and a user I / O interface 14 (e.g., including a display and input devices such as buttons, a touch screen, etc.). The controller 13 is configured or programmed to control the components of the device, such as operating the flow generator 11 to generate a flow of gas (gas stream) for delivery to a patient, operating the humidifier 12 (if present) to humidify and / or heat the generated gas stream, receive user input from the user interface 14 for reconfiguration and / or user-defined operation of the device 10, and output information to a user (e.g., on a display). The user may be a patient, a medical professional, or another person interested in using the device.

[0168] A patient breathing conduit 16 is coupled to a gas flow output 344 in the housing 100 of the flow treatment device 10, which is coupled to a patient interface 17, such as a nasal cannula with a manifold 19 and nasal prongs 18. Additionally or alternatively, the patient breathing conduit 16 may be coupled to a face mask. Additionally or alternatively, the patient breathing conduit may be coupled to a nasal pillow mask and / or a nasal mask and / or a tracheotomy interface, or any other suitable type of patient interface. The gas flow, which may be humidified, generated by the flow treatment device 10 is delivered to the patient through the cannula 17 via the patient breathing conduit 16. The patient breathing conduit 16 may have a heater wire 16a that heats the gas flow passing through it to the patient. The heater wire 16a is controlled by the controller 13. The patient breathing conduit 16 and / or the patient interface 17 may be considered part of the flow treatment device 10, or alternatively, as peripheral devices thereof. Together, the flow treatment device 10, the respiratory conduit 16 and the patient interface 17 form a flow treatment system.

[0169] The overall operation of the flow therapy respiratory device 10 will be known to those skilled in the art and need not be described in detail here. However, in general, the controller 13 controls the flow generator 11 to generate a gas flow at a desired flow rate, controls one or more valves to control the mixture of air and oxygen or other alternative gases, and controls the humidifier 12 (if present) to humidify and / or heat the gas flow to an appropriate level. The gas flow is directed through a patient breathing conduit 16 and a cannula 17 to exit into the patient's body. The controller 13 may also control the heating element of the humidifier 12 and / or the heating element 16a of the patient breathing conduit 16 to heat the gas to a desired temperature that achieves a desired level of therapy and / or comfort to the patient. The controller 13 may be programmed with a suitable target temperature for the gas flow, or the controller 13 may determine a suitable target temperature for the gas flow.

[0170] Operational sensors 3a, 3b, 3c, 20, 25, such as flow, temperature, humidity and / or pressure sensors, may be located at various locations on the flow therapy device 10 and / or the patient breathing conduit 16 and / or cannula 17. Output from the sensors may be received by the controller 13, which may assist the controller 13 in operating the flow therapy device 10 to provide optimal therapy. In some configurations, providing optimal therapy includes meeting the patient's respiratory needs. The device 10 may have a transmitter and / or receiver 15 to enable the controller 13 to receive signals from the sensors 8 and / or control various components of the flow therapy device 10, including but not limited to the flow generator 11, the humidifier 12 and the heater wires 16a, or ancillary or peripheral devices associated with the flow therapy device 10. Additionally or alternatively, the transmitter and / or receiver 15 may send data to a remote server or allow remote control of the device 10.

[0171] The flow therapy device 10 can be any suitable type of device, but in some configurations can deliver high gas flow or high flow therapy (e.g., air, oxygen, other mixed gases, or some combination thereof) to a patient to assist breathing and / or treat respiratory disorders. In some configurations, the gas is or includes oxygen. In some configurations, the gas includes a mixture of oxygen and ambient air. As used in this disclosure, "high flow therapy" refers to the delivery of gas to a patient at a flow rate greater than or equal to about ten liters per minute (10 LPM). In some configurations, "high flow therapy" refers to the delivery of gas to a patient at a flow rate of about 10 LPM to about 100 LPM, or about 15 LPM to about 95 LPM, or about 20 LPM to about 90 LPM, or about 25 LPM to about 85 LPM, or about 30 LPM to about 80 LPM, or about 35 LPM to about 75 LPM, or about 40 LPM to about 70 LPM, or about 45 LPM to about 65 LPM, or about 50 LPM to about 60 LPM. The gas delivered can include a percentage of oxygen. In some configurations, the percentage of oxygen in the delivered gas can be about 20% to about 100%, or about 30% to about 100%, or about 40% to about 100%, or about 50% to about 100%, or about 60% to about 100%, or about 70% to about 100%, or about 80% to about 100%, or about 90% to about 100%, or about 100%, or 100%.

[0172] High-flow therapy has been found to be effective in meeting or exceeding a patient's respiratory demand, increasing a patient's oxygen delivery, and / or reducing the effort of breathing. Additionally, high-flow therapy can create a flushing effect in the nasopharynx, whereby the anatomical dead space of the upper airway is flushed by the incoming high flow gas stream. This creates a reservoir of fresh gas available with every breath, while minimizing rebreathing of carbon dioxide, nitrogen, etc.

[0173] The patient interface may be a non-sealing interface that prevents barotrauma (e.g., tissue damage to the lungs or other organs of the respiratory system due to pressure differences relative to atmospheric pressure). The patient interface may be a nasal cannula with a manifold and nasal prongs, and / or a face mask, and / or a nasal pillows mask, and / or a nasal mask, and / or a tracheostomy interface, or any other suitable type of patient interface.

[0174] As shown in FIGS. 2-54 and described below, the flow treatment device 10 has a variety of features that aid in the function, use and / or construction of the device 10.

[0175] 2. Overview including description of main housing 2-18, the flow treatment device 10 includes a main housing 100. The main housing 100 has a main housing upper chassis 102 and a main housing lower chassis 202.

[0176] The main housing upper chassis 102 has a peripheral wall arrangement 106. The peripheral wall arrangement defines a humidifier or liquid chamber compartment 108 that receives a removable liquid chamber 300. The removable liquid chamber 300 contains a suitable liquid, such as water, for humidifying the gases delivered to the patient.

[0177] In the illustrated form, the perimeter wall arrangement 106 of the main housing top chassis 102 comprises a substantially vertical left outer wall 110 oriented in the fore-aft direction of the main housing 100, a substantially vertical left inner wall 112 oriented in the fore-aft direction of the main housing 100, and an interconnecting wall 114 extending between and interconnecting upper ends of the left inner wall 112 and the left outer wall 110. The main housing top chassis 102 further comprises a substantially vertical right outer wall 116 oriented in the fore-aft direction of the main housing 100, a substantially vertical right inner wall 118 oriented in the fore-aft direction of the main housing 100, and an interconnecting wall 120 extending between and interconnecting upper ends of the right inner wall 118 and the right outer wall 116. The interconnecting walls 114, 120 are angled toward the respective outer edges of the main housing 100, but may alternatively be substantially horizontal or angled inwardly.

[0178] The main housing top chassis 102 further includes a substantially vertical rear exterior wall 122. The top of the main housing top chassis 102 includes a forward angled face 124. Face 124 has a recess 126 for receiving a display and user interface module 14, shown in more detail in Figures 53 and 54. An interconnecting wall 128 extends between and interconnects the upper end of the rear exterior wall 122 and the rear edge of face 124.

[0179] A substantially vertical wall portion 130 extends downwardly from the front end of the face 124. A substantially horizontal wall portion 132 extends forwardly from the lower end of the wall portion 130 forming a ledge. A substantially vertical wall portion 134 extends downwardly from the front end of the wall portion 132 and terminates in a substantially horizontal floor portion 136 of the liquid chamber compartment 108. The left inner wall 112, the right inner wall 118, the wall portion 134 and the floor portion 136 together define the liquid chamber compartment 108. The floor portion 136 of the liquid chamber compartment 108 has a recess 138 that receives a heater mechanism, such as a heater plate 140 or other suitable heating element that heats the liquid in the liquid chamber 300 used during the humidification process.

[0180] The floor portion 136 of the liquid chamber compartment 108 terminates short of the leading edges of the left and right inner walls 112, 118 to form a downwardly extending lip 142. The lip 142 forms part of a recess that receives a handle portion 506 of a lever 500 that is used to aid in the insertion of the liquid chamber 300, as will be described further below. The liquid chamber compartment 108 further includes opposed guide mechanisms in the form of left and right horizontally extending guide rails 144, 146 that extend from the left and right inner walls 112, 118 towards the center of the compartment 108 to help guide the liquid chamber 300 into position in the compartment 108, as will be described in more detail below.

[0181] The main housing lower chassis 202 is attachable to the upper chassis 102 by either suitable fasteners or an integrated attachment mechanism, such as, for example, clips. The main housing lower chassis 202 comprises a substantially vertical left outer wall 210 oriented in the fore-aft direction of the main housing 100 and continuous with the left outer wall 110 of the upper chassis 102, and a substantially vertical right outer wall 216 oriented in the fore-aft direction of the main housing 100 and continuous with the right outer wall 116 of the upper chassis 102. The main housing lower chassis 202 further comprises a substantially vertical rear outer wall 222 continuous with the rear outer wall 122 of the upper chassis 102.

[0182] The lower housing chassis 202 has a lip 242 that is contiguous with the lip 142 of the upper housing chassis 102 and that also forms part of a recess that receives the handle portion 506 of the lever 500. The lower lip 242 includes a forwardly facing projection 243 that acts as a retainer for the handle portion 506 of the lever 500.

[0183] The underside of the lower housing chassis 202 comprises a bottom wall 230. Each of the interconnecting walls 214, 220, 228 extends between and interconnects the substantially vertical walls 210, 216, 222 and the bottom wall 230. The bottom wall 230 comprises a grill 232 with a number of openings that allow for liquid drainage in the event of a leak from the liquid chamber 300 (e.g., from a spilled liquid). The bottom wall 230 further comprises an elongated front-to-rear oriented slot 234. The slot 234 further allows for liquid drainage in the event of a leak from the liquid chamber 300 without the liquid entering the electronics housing. In the illustrated configuration, the heater plate 140 is not supported by an outer portion of the bottom wall 230, so the slot 234 can be wide and elongated relative to the grill 232 opening to maximize liquid drainage.

[0184] As shown in Figures 17a-22f, the lower chassis 202 has a motor recess 250 for receiving a removable motor and / or sensor module 400, which is shown in Figures 19-21 and described in further detail below. A recess opening 251 is provided adjacent the rear edge of the bottom wall 230 for receiving the removable motor / sensor module 400, which is shown in Figures 19 and 21 and Figures 22b-22f and described in further detail below. A continuous, gas impermeable, uninterrupted peripheral wall 252 is integrally formed with the bottom wall 230 of the lower chassis 202 and extends upwardly from the periphery of the opening 251. A rear portion 254 of the peripheral wall 252 has a first height and a front portion 256 of the peripheral wall 252 has a second height that is greater than the first height. The rear portion 254 of the peripheral wall 252 terminates in a substantially horizontal step 258, which further terminates in an upper auxiliary rear portion 260 of the peripheral wall 252. The forward portion 256 and the upper auxiliary rear portion 260 terminate in a ceiling 262. All of the walls and ceiling 262 are continuous, gas impermeable and uninterrupted, except for the gas flow passages. As can be seen most clearly in FIG. 22f, the tubes 264 which form the gas flow passages are integrally formed with the ceiling 262, and the ceiling surrounds and extends outwardly from the tubes 264. Thus, the entire motor recess 250 is gas impermeable and uninterrupted, except for the gas flow passages.

[0185] As shown in FIG. 22f, the tube 264 that defines the gas flow path extends upward through a lower outer extension tube or conduit 133 that is integrally formed with the ledge 132 in the upper housing chassis 102. The tube 264 extends at least to the ledge 132 and may extend vertically higher than the ledge 132. A soft seal, such as an O-ring seal (not shown), is located between the exterior of the gas flow tube 264 and the interior of the lower outer extension tube 133 to provide a seal between the components when assembled. In other configurations, the gas flow tube 264 and the lower extension tube 133 may be configured to be attached to one another via an interference fit or press fit arrangement and still provide a seal between the components when assembled. Still other configurations are contemplated, including but not limited to latch / catch type fittings and bayonet type fittings between the gas flow tube 264 and the lower extension tube 133. The tube 264 terminates just below the cover 150, which will be described in more detail below.

[0186] With this configuration, if there is any leakage of gas from the motor or the gas flow path leading to the motor through any seal, the gas will be exhausted to the surrounding environment rather than entering the interior of the main housing housing the control board and other electrical components as described below. The electrical components and electronic circuit boards in the housing are pneumatically isolated from the gas flow. The only way gas could leak into the portion of the main housing 100 housing the electronic circuit board and other electrical components would be if there was a physical crack in the housing 100 or another physical component. The pressure in the motor and / or the motor of the sensor module 400 upstream of the impeller may be lower than the pressure in the portion of the main housing 100 housing the electrical / electronic components, which also helps any gas leakage to be exhausted to the surrounding environment.

[0187] There is a pressure drop in the gas flow as it moves through the system due to the formation of gas turbulence and due to friction (eg, as the gas moves along the walls that define the gas passageways).

[0188] If there is a break (e.g., a crack) in the housing defining the motor and / or sensor module 400, leakage (to the surrounding environment) at the break will result in a greater reduction in pressure downstream (e.g., of gas in the portion of the main housing 100 that houses the electrical / electronic components), thereby reducing the probability or severity of leakage to the electrical / electronic components if further damage occurs downstream.

[0189] In the motor and / or sensor module 400, pressure is lower before / upstream of the motor impeller and pressure is higher after / downstream of the motor impeller. An electrical connection is made to the motor upstream of the motor impeller in the area of ​​lower pressure. If there is a break in the housing near the electrical connection, air will be sucked into the low pressure side.

[0190] In an alternative configuration, the motor recess, including elements 252, 254, 256, 258, 260, 264, can be formed separately from the lower chassis 202. The motor assembly, including the recess, can be insertable into the recess opening 251 and attachable to the lower chassis 202. When the motor assembly and recess are inserted into the lower chassis 202, the gas flow path tube 264 extends through the downward extension tube 133 and is sealed by a soft seal.

[0191] In the illustrated form, the recess 250 comprises a recess opening in the bottom wall of the housing. Alternatively, the recess opening can be in a different portion of the housing, such as the side, front or top of the housing.

[0192] The described configuration provides a chamber shaped to receive a removable motor and / or sensor module 400, as described below with reference to Figures 19 and 20. The inner walls of the recess 250 (including but not limited to a portion of the peripheral wall 252) may be provided with guides and / or mounting features to aid in positioning and / or mounting the module 400 in the recess 250. The removable motor and / or sensor module 400 is a flow generator and includes a motor 402 with an impeller that operates as a blower to deliver gas through the liquid chamber 300 to the patient interface 17. It will be appreciated that the shape of the chamber may vary depending on the shape of the motor / sensor module 400. However, the chamber is provided with continuous, gas-impermeable, unbroken walls and ceiling to isolate the gas flow from the electrical and electronic components within the main housing 100.

[0193] 23, the removable liquid chamber 300 includes an outer housing 302 defining a liquid reservoir, a liquid chamber gas inlet port 306 in fluid communication with the liquid reservoir, and a liquid chamber gas outlet port 308 in fluid communication with the liquid reservoir. A baffle 304 is provided inside the liquid reservoir to define a flow path for gas through the liquid chamber 300. A lower edge of the liquid chamber 300 includes an outwardly facing annular flange 310 that interacts with guide rails 144, 146 in the chamber section 108 to position and retain the liquid chamber 300 within the chamber section 108. The flange 310 extends outwardly from a base of a peripheral wall 312 of the liquid chamber 300. The bottom wall of the liquid chamber 300 is thermally conductive and adapted to rest on a heater plate 140 to heat the liquid within the liquid chamber 300.

[0194] The device 10 includes a connection manifold arrangement 320 for fluidly coupling the liquid chamber 300 to the device 10. The liquid chamber 300 can be fluidly coupled to the device 10 from a position at the front of the housing 100 in a direction toward the rear of the housing 100 with a linear sliding movement of the liquid chamber 300 in a rearward direction into the chamber compartment 108. The connection manifold arrangement 320 includes a manifold gas outlet port 322 in fluid communication with the gas flow path from the motor / impeller unit 402 through a fixed L-shaped elbow 324. As shown in FIG. 22f, a lower portion 325 of the elbow 324, which forms the gas inlet port of the elbow, extends downwardly into the interior of the gas flow tube 264, preferably to a position below the lower end of the gas flow tube 264. A soft seal, such as an O-ring seal, is provided between the exterior of the lower portion 325 and the interior of the gas flow tube 264 to seal between these parts.

[0195] The connection manifold arrangement 320 further comprises a manifold gas inlet port 340 (humidified gas return) that is incorporated into a removable elbow 342. The removable elbow 342 is L-shaped and further comprises a patient outlet port 344 that couples to the patient respiratory conduit 16 for delivering gas to the patient interface 17. The manifold gas outlet port 322, the manifold gas inlet port 340 and the patient outlet port 344 each provide a sealed gas passageway between the apparatus 10, the fluid chamber 300 and the patient respiratory conduit 16.

[0196] The liquid chamber gas inlet port 306 is complementary to the connecting manifold gas outlet port 322, and the liquid chamber gas outlet port 308 is complementary to the connecting manifold gas inlet port 340. The axes of the ports are preferably parallel to allow the liquid chamber 300 to be inserted into the chamber compartment 108 in a linear motion.

[0197] The device 10 has an air and oxygen (or alternative supplemental gas) inlet in fluid communication with the motor 402 to enable the motor 402 to deliver air, oxygen or a suitable mixture thereof to the liquid chamber 300 and thereby to the patient. In some configurations, the gas includes a mixture of oxygen and ambient air. As shown in FIG. 10, the device 10 can have a combined air / oxygen (or alternative supplemental gas) inlet mechanism 350. The mechanism includes a combined air / oxygen port 352 into the housing 100, a filter 354, and a cover 356 having a laterally extending oxygen tube 358 in fluid communication with an oxygen source. The port 352 is fluidly coupled with the motor 402. For example, the port 352 can be coupled to the motor and / or sensor module 400 via a gas flow path between the port 352 and an inlet opening or port of the motor and / or sensor module 400 (leading to the motor). The mechanism may be of the type described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0345615, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0198] Alternatively, the device 10 can have the arrangement shown in Figs. 11-14 that allows the motor 402 to deliver air, oxygen (or alternative auxiliary gas) or a suitable mixture thereof to the liquid chamber 300 and thereby to the patient. This arrangement comprises an air inlet 356' in the rear wall 222 of the lower chassis 202 of the housing 100. The air inlet 356' comprises a rigid plate with a suitable grill arrangement of openings and / or slots. Sound deadening foam can be provided adjacent to the plate on the inside of the plate. An air filter box 354' is disposed inside the main housing 100 adjacent to the air inlet 356', which comprises an air outlet port 360 to deliver filtered air to the motor 402 via the air inlet port 404 of the motor and / or sensor module 400. The air filter box 354' can comprise a filter configured to remove particles (e.g., dust) and / or pathogens (e.g., viruses or bacteria) from the gas flow. A soft seal, such as an O-ring seal, is provided between the air outlet port 360 and the air inlet port 404 to provide a seal between those components. The device 10 includes a separate oxygen inlet port 358' located at the rear end of the housing 100 adjacent one side thereof for receiving oxygen from an oxygen source, such as a tank or source of tubed oxygen. The oxygen inlet port 358' is in fluid communication with a proportional oxygen valve 362. The oxygen valve 362 is preferably a solenoid valve that allows control of the amount of oxygen added to the gas stream delivered to the liquid chamber 300. It should be understood that in an alternative configuration, the oxygen port 358' and the proportional oxygen valve 362 can be used with other supplemental gases to control the addition of other supplemental gases to the gas stream. The other supplemental gases can include any one or more of a number of gases useful for gas therapy, including but not limited to heliox and nitric oxide.

[0199] As shown in Figures 13-16 and 22b-22f, the lower housing chassis 202 supports a suitable electronic circuit board 272, such as a printed circuit board. The electronic circuit board is disposed adjacent each of the outer side walls 210, 216 of the lower housing chassis 202. The electronic circuit board 272 includes or is in electrical communication with suitable electrical or electronic components, such as, but not limited to, microprocessors, capacitors, resistors, diodes, operational amplifiers, comparators, and switches. Sensors may be used. Components of the electronic circuit board 272, such as, but not limited to, one or more microprocessors, act as the controller 13 of the device.

[0200] One or both of the electronic circuit boards 272 are in electrical communication with the electrical components of the device 10, including the display unit and user interface 14, the motor 402, the oxygen valve 362 and the heater plate 140, to operate the motor 402 to provide the desired flow rate of gas, to operate the humidifier 12 to humidify and heat the gas stream to an appropriate level, and to supply an appropriate amount of oxygen (or, in an alternative configuration, a larger amount of an alternative auxiliary gas) to the gas stream.

[0201] The electronic circuit board 272 is in electrical communication with a connector mechanism 274 protruding from the rear wall 122 of the upper housing chassis 102. The connector mechanism 274 may be coupled to a nurse call, pulse oximetry port, and / or other suitable accessories. The electronic circuit board 272 is also in electrical communication with an electrical connector 276, which is also provided on the rear wall 122 of the upper housing chassis 102 to provide mains or battery power to the components of the device 10. The electronic circuit board 272 is also in electrical communication with an electrical connector 278 for a removable elbow 342, the purpose of which will be described in more detail below.

[0202] As discussed above, operational sensors, such as flow, temperature, humidity and / or pressure sensors, may be located at various locations on the flow therapy device 10 and / or the patient breathing conduit 16 and / or cannula 17. The electronic circuit board 272 is in electrical communication with those sensors. Output from the sensors is received by the controller 13 and may assist the controller 13 in operating the flow therapy device 10 to provide optimal therapy, such as meeting inspiration demand.

[0203] As outlined above, the electronic circuit board 272 and other electrical and electronic components are pneumatically isolated from the gas flow path, thereby reducing or avoiding any risk of fire or explosion that may occur in the absence of that isolation.

[0204] Various aspects of the device will now be described in more detail.

[0205] 3. Motor and / or sensor modules 19-22f show in more detail the removable motor and / or sensor module or subassembly 400. As mentioned above, the lower chassis 202 includes a recess 250 that receives the motor and / or sensor module 400.

[0206] In the configuration shown in Figures 19-21, the motor and / or sensor module 400 comprises a stacked arrangement of three main components: a base 403 of the subassembly 400 (on which the motor 402 is disposed), an outlet gas flow path and sensing layer 420 disposed above the base 403, and a cover layer 440. The base 403, sensing layer 420 and cover layer 440 collectively form a subassembly housing, which has a shape complementary to that of the recess 250 such that the subassembly 400 can be received within the recess 250. The base 403 is configured to close the recess opening 251 when the subassembly 400 is disposed within the recess 250. The subassembly 400 can be maintained in place within the recess in any suitable manner, such as, for example, by fasteners, clips or a quick release mechanism.

[0207] The sensing layer includes a gas flow passage containing one or more sensors, the gas flow passage being positioned to deliver gas to an outlet port of the housing.

[0208] The motor 402 has a body 408 that defines an impeller chamber that houses an impeller. The motor 402 may be any suitable gas blower motor, such as a motor and impeller assembly of the type described in published PCT application WO 2013 / 009193 and shown, for example, in FIG. 65, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0209] A plurality of vibration isolation structures 412 are located at spaced locations around the periphery of the body 408. The vibration isolation structures 412 are configured to absorb vibrations caused by the movement of the impeller or other components of the motor during operation. Absorbing the vibrations can reduce rattling of the motor 402 inside the subassembly housing, thereby reducing noise emitted by the motor 402. Absorbing the vibrations can also reduce material fatigue in the various components of the subassembly 400. The vibration isolation structures 412 can be constructed from a silicone material. In other configurations, other elastomeric materials can be used, including but not limited to acrylic and polyurethane resins. In the illustrated form, the vibration isolation structures 412 comprise upstanding plastic posts with an elastomeric cylindrical sleeve disposed over the posts. The vibration isolation structures are attached to the body 408 and are received in recesses in the base and sensor layer. Alternatively, the arrangement can be reversed. In another alternative, the base and sensor layer can each be provided with a mounting post, with the posts mating or connecting to one another in the elastomeric sleeve. In other configurations, the vibration isolation structure 412 can be in a different form. For example, in an alternative configuration, the vibration isolation structure 412 can comprise one or more overmolded features on the body 408. In yet another alternative configuration, the vibration isolation structure 412 can comprise one or more springs, elastic structures (e.g., nipples, protrusions, blocks, sheets, etc.) or foam structures (e.g., encapsulation, a "ring"-like attachment around the periphery of the body 408, etc.) attached to one or more sides of the body 408. In yet other configurations, the inner walls of the base 403 and / or the sensing layer 420 can comprise a vibration isolation structure that vibrationally isolates the body 408.

[0210] A gas outlet 406 is in fluid communication with the outlet gas flow passage and the gas inlet of a sensing layer 420 layered over the motor. The layer 420 includes a body 422 with a number of mounting legs 425 that can be inserted into a number of mounting slots (not shown) in the base 403 to secure the body 422 to the base 403. In other configurations, other structures or arrangements can be used to secure the body 422 to the base 403, including but not limited to fasteners, clips, or quick release mechanisms. In one configuration, the body 422 defines a gas flow passage that couples the gas outlet 406 to the gas flow passage and the gas inlet of the sensing layer 420. Alternative configurations, such as but not limited to a coupling tube, can be used to couple the gas outlet 406 to its gas inlet.

[0211] The body 422 defines a lower portion 426 of the sensing and gas flow path. The cover layer 440 has a body 442 that defines an upper portion 446 of the sensing and gas flow path, the shapes of the upper portion 426 and the lower portion 446 substantially corresponding to one another.

[0212] As shown in Figures 20 and 21, the gas flow path includes a straight, elongated gas flow section 428, 448. The inlet is in fluid communication with a tangential inlet section 430, 450 of the gas flow path, which is located at or adjacent the inlet end of the straight, elongated section 428, 448 of the gas flow path. Recesses 433, 453 and 434, 454 may be provided at both ends of the straight, elongated section of the gas flow path.

[0213] A gas flow outlet port 452 extends vertically through the body 442 of the cover layer 440 and is located at or adjacent to the opposite outlet end of the straight elongated portions 428, 448 of the gas flow passage. As shown, for example, in Figs. 22d and 22e, the gas outlet port 452 is in fluid communication with an upper portion of the motor recess 250, which is in fluid communication with the gas flow passage. Again, the wall 252 and ceiling 262 configuration of the recess 250 ensures that if there is a gas leak from the motor / sensor module 400, it will be vented to the surrounding environment rather than entering the portion of the main housing 100 that contains most of the electronics and controls. The recess 250 can include a spacer, such as a protrusion protruding downward from the ceiling 262 as shown in Fig. 17b, to maintain a suitable spacing for the gas flow from the gas outlet port 452 and the ceiling of the recess 262.

[0214] 20, it can be seen that at least a portion of the gas flow path through and out of the motor and / or sensing module 400 has a serpentine or winding configuration. For example, the direction of gas flow travel through the elongated portions 428, 448 is generally opposite to the direction of gas flow travel from the gas exit port 452 to the inlet of the gas flow path through the elbow 324.

[0215] As shown in FIG. 21 , the cover layer 440 includes a sensing printed circuit board (PCB) 456. The cover layer 440 can also include one or more temperature sensors, such as thermistors, located on the elongated portions 428, 448 of the gas flow path. One sensor can measure the gas temperature and the other sensor can act as a redundant temperature sensor. Alternatively, one of the thermistors can be used as a reference flow sensor (e.g., via use as a constant temperature thermistor) and the measured temperature can be used to determine the gas flow rate through the portions 428, 448 of the gas flow path. The one or more temperature sensors can be located on a portion of the sensing PCB 456 that faces the gas flow. The sensing PCB 456 can further include other sensors, including but not limited to pressure sensors, humidity sensors, and dew point sensors.

[0216] One or both of the electronic circuit boards 272 are in electrical communication with or coupled to the sensors to process information received from the sensors and to operate the device 10 based on the information received from the sensors.

[0217] The sensing layer 420 and the cover layer 440 include complementary positioning features 438, 458 for precisely positioning the layers relative to one another. In the illustrated form, the positioning features include a protrusion 438 and a complementary recess 458, although other features may be provided. The base 403, sensing layer 420 and cover layer 440 (and optionally the motor 402) may be fastened together using fasteners (e.g., screws) that extend through openings in the components of the subassembly 400. Alternatively, a different fastening mechanism may be used. For example, the layers 403, 420, 440 may be glued or fused together.

[0218] The cover layer 440 has a vertical wall grid arrangement on its upper surface to minimize water ingress in the event of water leakage from the fixed elbow 324. The grid arrangement can thus help prevent water that enters the subassembly 400 (e.g., due to an accidental tilt of the filled liquid chamber 300 within the chamber section 108) from entering the gas outlet port 452 and interfering with the electrical components of the subassembly 400. In an alternative configuration, the upper surface of the cover layer 440 can define a water sump having a bottom wall that is lower than the upper portion of the gas outlet port 452 to receive water.

[0219] In an alternative configuration, the motor / impeller unit may be located remotely from the apparatus 10. In that configuration, the module received in the recess 250 may simply include a gas flow path and various sensors to deliver gas to the fixed elbow 324 and thereby to the liquid chamber 300. In an alternative configuration, the module received in the recess 250 may include only a motor and gas flow path, but no sensors.

[0220] In another alternative configuration, the motor and / or sensor module 400 may not be removable from the recess 250, but instead may be permanently mounted therein. In that configuration, the benefits of gas isolation from the electrical / electronic components are still provided.

[0221] A removable motor and / or sensor module allows the module to be cleaned and / or replaced if it is somehow defective. Removable modules allow for smaller flow paths and reduced distances. This reduces resistance to the flow since the flow does not have to travel as far.

[0222] The flow paths are compact and have reduced bends / sharp turns, which reduces flow separation and reduces resistance to flow.

[0223] The motor and flow path arrangement provides another layer of isolation for the wall arrangement.

[0224] By having a modular motor and / or sensor module, the various parts of the module can be disassembled if necessary for cleaning and / or repair.

[0225] Advantageously, there are no leak paths in the motor and / or sensor module, which may be possible leak points, but a leak in that area would allow oxygen to be exhausted into the surrounding environment or into the liquid chamber.

[0226] 4. Removable gas flow tube or elbow As mentioned above, the device 10 includes a removable gas flow tube in the form of a removable elbow 342 which receives humidified gas from the fluid chamber 300 and directs the humidified gas through the patient respiratory conduit 16 towards the patient interface 17. The elbow 342 and associated features will now be described with reference to Figures 24-32. The benefit of having a removable tube is that parts in contact with possible condensation can be removed for cleaning, disinfection and / or sterilization.

[0227] The removable elbow 342 is substantially L-shaped and has a manifold gas inlet port 340 (humidified gas return) and a patient outlet port 344 that mates with the patient respiratory conduit 16 for delivering gases to the patient interface 17. As shown in FIG. 29 , the elbow 342 includes a gas flow path 364 that extends through the elbow from the inlet port 340 to the outlet port 344.

[0228] The upper chassis 102 includes an elbow retainer 160 extending forward from the wall 130. The retainer 160 includes a base wall 161 and two spaced apart upright side walls 162. Inwardly directed flanges 163 extend from the upper ends of the side walls 162 toward one another with a spacing between the flanges 163 large enough to allow the patient outlet port 344 to extend upwardly therebetween. As shown in FIGS. 28, 30 and 32, the body of the elbow 342 includes an elongated rib 365 extending laterally outward from either side thereof. The rib 365 and the flanges 163 are advantageously both substantially horizontally oriented. The rib 365 and the flanges 163 are sized and configured to allow the elbow 342 to be moved rearwardly in a horizontal direction, thereby engaging the elbow retainer 160. However, once elbow 342 is engaged with elbow retainer 160, elbow 342 can only be removed by moving it forward in the horizontal direction. Elbow 342 cannot be lifted upwardly away from elbow retainer 160 because rib 365 and flange 163 prevent that movement.

[0229] The upper housing chassis 102 includes a removable retaining cover 150 as shown in Figures 25-26b. When the removable retaining cover 150 is removed from the upper chassis 102, the elbow 342 can be removed from the elbow retaining portion 160. When the removable retaining cover 150 is connected to the upper chassis 102, the elbow 342 cannot be removed from the elbow retaining portion 160.

[0230] The retaining cover 150 is generally L-shaped in cross section, having an upper ceiling portion 151 and a substantially vertical wall portion 152 extending downwardly from a front edge thereof. The ceiling portion 151 includes a recess 153 for receiving the patient outlet port 344 of the removable elbow 342. The wall portion 152 includes two recesses 154, 155, one for receiving the manifold gas outlet port 322 and one for receiving the manifold gas inlet port 340 (humidified gas return).

[0231] The retaining cover 150 is configured such that it can be removed from the upper chassis 102 of the housing 100 only by moving the elbow 342 in a direction at least partially substantially transverse to the removal and insertion direction. To that end, each side of the retaining cover 150 includes a retention feature 156 that cooperates with a complementary retention feature 170 extending inwardly from the inner walls 112, 118 of the upper chassis 102. In the illustrated form, the retention feature 156 of the cover 150 includes an elongated recess that extends substantially vertically, and the retention feature 170 of the upper chassis 102 includes an elongated slat that extends substantially vertically. Alternatively, the configuration can be reversed such that the cover 150 includes the slats and the upper chassis 102 includes the recesses. Alternatively, one of the components can have multiple projections other than slats. Preferably, the slats and recesses are tapered such that the upper ends of the recesses and slats are narrower than their lower ends to allow for a push-fit engagement of the cover 150 and upper chassis 102 .

[0232] With the cover 150 in place on the housing 100 and the elbow 342 in place on the elbow retainer 160, attempts to pull the elbow 342 forward will be unsuccessful due to the engagement between the retention features 156, 170 between the retaining cover 150 and the upper chassis 102. The cover 150 must be lifted upward relative to the housing 100 so that the retention features 156, 170 pass one another, at which point the cover 150 can be removed and the elbow 342 can be separated from the elbow retainer 160. After cleaning the removable elbow 342, the elbow 342 can be re-engaged with the elbow retainer 160 and the cover 150 can be moved downward relative to the housing 100 to re-engage the housing 100 and retain the elbow 342 in place on the housing 100.

[0233] This arrangement requires two separate actions to remove the elbow 342 from the housing 100, moving the cover 150 in a first direction to release it from the housing 100, and then moving the elbow 342 in a second direction transverse to the first direction to remove it from the elbow retainer 160. As a result, a user is less likely to accidentally disconnect the elbow 342, but this arrangement allows the elbow 342 to be easily disconnected and reconnected without fasteners or large forces, which is particularly beneficial for users with limited mobility. This arrangement is also beneficial when the direction of connection and disconnection of the liquid chamber 300 with the main housing 100 (and ports) corresponds to the direction of connection and disconnection of the elbow 342 and the housing 100. The described arrangement prevents accidental removal of the removable elbow 342 when the liquid chamber 300 is removed from the chamber compartment 108.

[0234] Although the direction of movement of the retaining cover 150 is shown as being perpendicular to the direction of movement of the elbow 342, the same result can be achieved with a smaller relative angle between the two movements, where the movements are at least substantially transverse to one another for at least a portion of the movement. Additionally, it will be understood that the first direction of movement of the retaining cover 150 need not necessarily be perpendicular. For example, the retaining cover 150 may be removable from the main housing 100 and reconnectable to the main housing 100 by moving it in a lateral or sideways direction.

[0235] An electrical connector 366 projects from the rear of the elbow 342 in a direction opposite to that of the gas inlet port 340. The electrical connector 366 is preferably a printed circuit board that projects outwardly from the elbow and forms a male connector adapted to be received in the female electrical connector 278 of the upper chassis 102. The electrical connector 366 is advantageously a male connector portion to avoid space constraints at the elbow 342 and for electrical safety to prevent overcurrent. Alternatively, the electrical connector 366 can be or comprise a female connector that receives a complementary male connector. The electrical connector 366 is configured to electrically communicate with the electrical connector 276 provided in the rear wall 122 of the upper housing chassis 102 to receive mains or battery power from the same source as the electrical connector 276. In an alternative configuration, the electrical connector 366 can be connected to a separate mains or battery power source.

[0236] The connector 366 is coupled to one or more temperature sensors that determine the temperature of the gas flowing through the gas inlet port 340. In one configuration, the temperature sensor may include a thermistor 367 coupled to the electrical connector 366. In an alternative configuration, at least a portion of the removable elbow 342 may be made of a material transparent to infrared wavelengths (e.g., clear polycarbonate) and the temperature sensor 367 may include an infrared temperature sensor. This may allow for a reduced number of wires and more accurate sensing. In some alternative configurations, if a portion of the removable elbow 342 is made of a material transparent to infrared wavelengths, the infrared temperature sensor 367 may instead be located elsewhere in the wall of the elbow 342 or may be located in a portion of the housing 100 proximal to the elbow 342. In an alternative configuration, a digital temperature sensor may be used instead of the thermistor.

[0237] In one configuration, the electrical connector 366 is also coupled to a power connector comprising a pin connector or inductive power connector 368 to mate with and provide power to the heater wires 3c in the patient breathing conduit. The connector 368 is in the form of a chimney. The connector 368 extends upwardly adjacent the gas outlet 344 and is positioned above the top of the retaining cover 150 and is configured such that when the patient breathing conduit 16 is pneumatically coupled to the gas outlet, the heater wires 3c are electrically coupled to the connector 368 in the same single motion.

[0238] The elbow includes a recess 370 in a portion of the gas outlet 344 that engages a complementary protrusion on a sliding locking collar connected to the heated patient interface tube 16 .

[0239] The electrical connector 366 is electrically coupled to one or both of the electronic circuit boards 272 via a female electrical connector 278 and a cable 279 that is connected to one of the electronic circuit boards by a removable connector 280. This enables the electronic circuit board 272 to provide power to the sensors and electrical connector 366 of the removable elbow 342 and to receive and process data from the sensors.

[0240] A connector guard 278a (FIG. 32) may be provided and fastened to the female connector 278 to minimize the chance of bending the connector pins, to prevent a user's fingers from touching the live portions of the connector 278, and to help maintain the female connector in place.

[0241] The removable elbow 342 includes a retention feature 372 on or adjacent the gas inlet port 340 that positively engages the liquid chamber gas outlet port 308. The gas outlet port can have a feature (not shown) adapted to receive or interface with the retention feature 372, such as, for example, a lip and / or an O-ring seal. In the illustrated form, the retention feature 372 includes a plurality of resilient fingers on a portion of the inlet port 340 adjacent a recess that receives the O-ring seal. The resilient fingers are disposed at discrete locations on the periphery of the inlet port 340. In the illustrated configuration, there are four resilient fingers on the periphery of the inlet port 340 with uniform angular spacing between the fingers. Alternatively, two or more resilient fingers can be disposed at any suitable angular spacing.

[0242] The resilient fingers each include a relatively narrow portion 372a disposed toward the outer end of the gas inlet port 340 and an enlarged head 372b disposed further from the outer end of the gas inlet port 340. It can be seen from FIG. 28 that at least the enlarged head 372b projects laterally outward beyond the portion of the gas inlet port 340 adjacent the finger. The liquid chamber gas outlet port 308 has a cylindrical region with an inner diameter slightly larger than the outer diameter of the portion of the gas inlet port 340 adjacent the finger. When the gas inlet port 340 is inserted into the liquid chamber gas outlet port 308, an O-ring seal initially seals against the interior of the gas outlet port 308. With further insertion, the fingers 372 deform inwardly against the interior of the gas outlet port 308 until they pass a lip therein, at which point the fingers 372 move outwardly to positively engage the lip, minimizing the possibility of the liquid chamber 300 being accidentally removed. When the fluid chamber 300 is removed from the device 10, the chamber 300 must be moved outward with enough force to force the lips inward against the fingers 372.

[0243] The fingers 372 can provide sufficient resistance to movement of the liquid chamber 300 inwardly or outwardly. In some configurations, movement of the chamber 300 into and out of engagement with the housing 100 can be entirely manual, with the user directly pushing on the liquid chamber 300. In alternative configurations, a handle / lever mechanism can be provided on the device 10 to aid in engagement and / or disengagement of the liquid chamber 300 from the housing 100, as described below.

[0244] In the illustrated form, the manifold gas outlet port 322 is also shown to have resilient fingers 372. The engagement and operation of the resilient fingers 372 with the liquid chamber gas inlet port 306 will be the same as described above. In some configurations, both the manifold gas outlet port 322 and the manifold gas inlet port 340 will have resilient fingers. In other configurations, only one of the ports may have resilient fingers, as this may be sufficient to minimize the possibility of accidental separation of the liquid chamber 300.

[0245] In an alternative configuration, the ports of the housing 322, 340 can be larger than the ports 306, 308 of the liquid chamber 300, thereby allowing the ports 306, 308 to be received within the ports 322, 340. Again, soft seals such as O-ring seals are provided to seal between the ports. In that configuration, if resilient fingers are provided, they are provided on one or both of the ports 306, 308. Alternatively, the resilient fingers can be provided on one or both of the larger ports and can face inward to interact with the exterior surface of the smaller port. The device 10 can have any combination of these alternatives.

[0246] In alternative configurations, the resilient fingers may be replaced by a snap fit mechanism, a bayonet connection or other mechanism.

[0247] Depending on the configuration of the device, the gas flow tubes can have any other suitable configuration rather than being in the form of elbows. For example, the gas flow tubes can be in a substantially straight or non-straight configuration with a manifold gas inlet port 340 and a patient outlet port 344 at the end of the tube. The inlet and outlet ports are typically angled relative to one another. The direction (e.g., forward and backward) in which the gas flow tubes are inserted and removed from the retainer 160 is angled relative to the direction of movement of the retainer cover 150 as described above. The retainer 160 can be modified as needed depending on the configuration of the gas flow tubes.

[0248] 5. Humidifier / liquid chamber compartment The liquid chamber section 108 and handle / lever mechanism will now be described in more detail with reference to Figures 33-52.

[0249] As discussed, the liquid chamber compartment 108 includes opposing left and right guide rails 144, 146 that extend from the respective left and right interior walls 112, 118 toward the center of the compartment 108. The guide rails 144, 146 serve to guide the liquid chamber 300 into position within the compartment 108. The guide rails 144, 146 are parallel to the floor 136 of the liquid chamber 300 and / or to the top surface of the heater plate 140, allowing the flange 310 of the liquid chamber 300 to slide therebetween. Insertion of the liquid chamber 300 into the compartment 108 is shown in Figures 34-38.

[0250] The main housing 100 includes a handle / lever 500 to aid in inserting and / or retaining the liquid chamber 300 in and / or removing it from the chamber compartment 108. Various configurations can be configured to aid in one, two or all of inserting, retaining and / or removing the liquid chamber 300 from the chamber compartment 108. An example configuration will be described with reference to Figures 44 to 52.

[0251] The handle / lever 500 is pivotally mounted to the main housing 100 and is movable from a first raised or open position, e.g., as shown in FIG. 33, to a second lowered or closed position, e.g., as shown in FIG. 38. The handle / lever has a left arm 502 pivotally mounted to the left inner wall 112 of the upper chassis 102, a right arm 504 pivotally mounted to the right inner wall 118 of the upper chassis 102, and a cross-piece handle portion 506 interconnecting the free ends of the left arm 502 and the right arm 504 and forming an engagement area for a user's fingers to grasp. When the handle 500 is in the raised position, the cross-piece 506 can act as a carrying handle for the device 10. When the handle / lever 500 is raised, the liquid chamber 300 can be inserted or removed from the chamber compartment 108. When the handle / lever 500 is in the lowered position, it blocks or prevents removal of the liquid chamber 300 from the chamber compartment 108. Because the handle / lever surrounds a portion of the chamber compartment when the lever is in the closed or fully lowered position, when the handle / lever is in the fully raised position, a large space is created between the cross member of the handle / lever and the housing of the device, including a large opening in front of and around the chamber compartment, allowing a user's fingers to easily fit between the housing wall and the liquid chamber, allowing easy insertion and removal of the liquid chamber into and from the chamber compartment.

[0252] An example pivot mechanism for the handle / lever 500 is described below with reference to Figures 44 to 51. The pivot mechanism allows pivoting of the handle / lever 500 but prevents translational movement of the handle / lever.

[0253] The left and right arms 502, 504 of the handle / lever 500 include liquid chamber engagement features in the form of inwardly directed protrusions 510, 512. The spacing between the arms 502, 504 is sufficient to allow the widest portion of the body 302 of the liquid chamber 300 above the flange 310 to be received therebetween. However, the spacing between the protrusions 510, 512 is not sufficient to allow the widest portion of the body 302 of the liquid chamber 300 to be received therebetween.

[0254] In some configurations, the edges of the protrusions 510, 512 can be beveled, curved or angled so that they can more easily move with and push against the chamber 300.

[0255] In some configurations, the protrusions 510, 512 can be formed from or include a soft (or at least softer than the handle 500) resilient material or component to prevent damage to the chamber 300 that may occur if the handle 500 is closed on the chamber 300 with too much force.

[0256] To insert the liquid chamber 300 into the chamber section 108, initially, the handle / lever 500 is in the raised position, as shown in FIG. 33. As shown in FIG. 34, the liquid chamber 300 is partially inserted into the section 108 with its bottom surface resting on the heating plate 140 and its flange 310 positioned directly below the guide rails 144, 146. The chamber 300 is manually moved rearward within the housing a sufficient amount that the ports 322, 340, 306, 308 are at least partially engaged. For example, the O-ring seals between the ports 322, 340, 306, 308 may be engaged, but not the resilient fingers 372.

[0257] The handle / lever 500 can then be pivoted downwardly towards its lowered position, as shown in Figure 35. In this intermediate position, the projections 510, 512 engage the widest portion of the housing 302 of the liquid chamber 300. Further downward movement of the handle / lever 500 through the positions shown in Figures 36, 37 and 38 gradually moves the liquid chamber 300 rearwardly further into engagement with the ports 322, 340 of the device 10, until the resilient fingers 372 (if present) engage the lips of the ports 306, 308 of the liquid chamber 300.

[0258] In the closed or fully lowered position of the handle / lever 500 shown in FIG. 38, the cross member 506 sits in a recess in front of the lips 142, 242 at the front of the upper and lower chassis parts and surrounds a portion of the chamber section. A forward facing projection 243 of the lower chassis 202 sits in a complementary recess 507 in the cross member and acts as a positive engagement mechanism that positively engages the handle / lever 500 in the lowered position. With the handle / lever 500 in the lowered position, a portion of the cross member 506 projects above the floor of the chamber section 108 and above the flange 310 of the liquid chamber sufficiently to prevent the liquid chamber 300 from sliding towards and being removed from the liquid chamber section 108. The guide rails 144, 146 prevent the liquid chamber 300 from being lifted vertically and removed from the liquid chamber section 108.

[0259] The handle / lever cross member 506 is resilient so that it can flex sufficiently to allow the projection 243 to be inserted into or removed from the recess or opening 507 .

[0260] To remove the liquid chamber 300 from the chamber section 108, the steps shown in Figures 33-38 are reversed. When the handle / lever 500 is lifted a sufficient amount, the projections 510, 512 clear the liquid chamber 300, allowing the liquid chamber 300 to slide forward until the flanges 310 of the liquid chamber 300 clear the guide rails 144, 146 and the ports 322, 340, 306, 308 separate. The liquid chamber 300 can then be removed from the housing 100.

[0261] In an alternative configuration of the handle / lever 500, rather than having protrusions 510, 512, there may be only a single protrusion or other liquid chamber engagement mechanism. In another alternative configuration, a portion of the cross member 506 may be configured to press against the liquid chamber 300 and act as the liquid chamber engagement mechanism.

[0262] In an alternative configuration, the cross member 506 may not be of sufficient size to act as a carrying handle for the device when in the raised position.

[0263] The handle / lever 500 can be gas injection molded to have a smooth exterior to aid in cleaning the handle / lever. The handle / lever can have an external seal to seal between the handle / lever and the housing. The seal between the handle and the housing can be around an opening in the handle retainer (in the area of ​​element 4498 in FIG. 117) that the handle moves in and out as it moves up and down. A seal can be used to seal between the handle and the upper chassis.

[0264] 39-43 show an alternative guide rail configuration useful for inserting and / or retaining the liquid chamber 300 within the chamber section 108. In this configuration, the guide rails 144', 146' include detents 144a, 146a. The detents 144a, 146a typically include enlarged recesses having a size and configuration that substantially corresponds to the maximum dimension of the body 302 of the liquid chamber 300. The detents 144a, 146a correspond in position to the fully inserted position of the liquid chamber 300 in the chamber section 108 and the fully enlarged positions of the ports 322, 340, 306, 308.

[0265] The portions 144b, 146b of each guide rail 144', 146' located between the detents 144a, 146a and the front face of the chamber section 108 form inwardly directed ridges with a spacing therebetween that is less than the maximum dimension of the body 302 of the liquid chamber 300. At least the ridges 144b, 146b of the guide rails 144', 146' are sufficiently resilient such that when the liquid chamber 300 is inserted between the guide rails 144', 146' with its flange 310 directly beneath the guide rails 144', 146', they deform or flex outwardly (with respect to the main housing 100) until the chamber 300 fully engages within the detents 144a, 146a between the guide rails 144', 146', followed by the ridges 144b, 146b flexing back inwardly. Alternatively or additionally, the liquid chamber 300 may be somewhat resilient and may deform past the ridges 144b, 146b and "pop" back to its original shape when the liquid chamber is fully engaged within the detents 144a, 146a. Similarly, when the chamber 300 is removed from the detents 144a, 146a, the ridges 144b, 146b may deform or flex outward and / or the liquid chamber 300 may deform inward. The guide rails, and in particular the detents 144a, 146a and the ridges 144b, 146b, provide tactile feedback to the user so that the user can easily determine when the liquid chamber 300 is fully engaged within the chamber section 108. The detents 144a, 146a and the ridges 144b, 146b may be provided in addition to or instead of the resilient fingers of the port.

[0266] The heater plate 140 is resiliently mounted to a biasing device, such as a spring, that allows the heater plate to move downward to accommodate the liquid chamber within the chamber compartment, while still maintaining sufficient contact between the heater plate 140 and the base of the liquid chamber when the chamber is inserted into the chamber compartment.

[0267] A handle / lever mechanism in combination with guide rails positions and holds the liquid chamber in the correct position. The guide rails also allow the liquid chamber to be oriented or rotated to align its ports with the ports in the main housing.

[0268] The rear of the guide rails 144', 146 may have ridges as shown that allow for precise positioning of the liquid chamber 300 within the chamber compartment 108. However, rather than the guide rails defining the rearmost position of the liquid chamber 300 within the chamber compartment 108, the rearmost position of the liquid chamber 300 within the chamber compartment 108 may instead be defined by engagement of the ports 322, 340, 306, 308, or by engagement of a portion of the liquid chamber 300 with a portion of the housing 100, such as engagement of a rear portion of the flange 310 with a wall of the housing 100.

[0269] Rather than having a recess in the guide rail, the detent can be configured differently, for example the guide rail can include a protrusion and the liquid chamber has a recess that receives the protrusion when the liquid chamber is fully engaged within the chamber compartment.

[0270] In an alternative configuration, the detents can be provided adjacent to the guide rails rather than being integrated into them. For example, a protrusion or recess can be provided in a portion of the chamber compartment 108 of the main housing adjacent to the guide rails (e.g., above or below the guide rails), with the liquid chamber configured to engage the detents when inserted into the chamber compartment 108. The detents are aligned with and enable the direction of insertion and removal of the liquid chamber into and from the chamber compartment. For example, if the liquid chamber is positioned to be inserted vertically into the chamber compartment, the detents are configured accordingly.

[0271] In an alternative arrangement, only a single detent may be provided. For example, only one guide rail may have a recess and a ridge. Alternatively, only one guide rail may have a protrusion that is received in a recess in the liquid chamber. Alternatively, a single detent may be provided adjacent only one of the guide rails.

[0272] This configuration also differs from that described above in that a recess 243' is provided in the main housing rather than a protrusion 243 on the front face of the lower chassis 202. The cross member 506' of the handle / lever 500' may be provided with a hook or protrusion (not shown) that engages in the recess 243'.

[0273] This configuration also differs in that the left and right arms 502', 504' of the handle / lever 500' include openings 502a, 504a for guiding the liquid tubes from above into the liquid chamber 300, allowing the liquid chamber 300 to be refilled and / or emptied as required. The openings 502a, 504a are provided in bosses of the pushers 503, 505, described below, but could be provided elsewhere in the handle / lever 500'.

[0274] The handle / lever 500' also serves to separate the liquid chamber 300 from the chamber section 108. The handle / lever 500' includes a left pusher 503 and a right pusher 505 that serve to separate the liquid chamber 300 from the chamber section 108. The left pusher 503 is connected to and extends inwardly from the left arm 502' and the right pusher 505 is connected to and extends inwardly from the right arm 504' such that the pushers 503, 505 extend towards each other. As shown in FIG. 45, the pushers 503, 505 are positioned on the side arms 502', 504' such that when the handle / lever 500' is in its lowered or closed position, the pushers 503, 505 are located at the rear of the chamber section 108 adjacent the vertical wall portion 134.

[0275] The pushers 503, 505 each include a platform portion 503a, 505a that is substantially horizontal when the handle / lever 500' is in the lowered or closed position. Each pusher 503, 505 also includes at least one engagement member 503b, 503c, 505b, 505c that is arranged to engage the liquid chamber 300 and to push the liquid chamber 300 out of engagement with the detents 144a, 146a of the guide rails 144', 146' when the handle / lever 500' is lifted from the lowered or closed position. As shown in FIG. 45, the engagement members 503b, 503c, 505b, 505c extend vertically downward from the platform portion 503a, 505a when the handle / lever 500' is in the lowered or closed position.

[0276] In some configurations, the edges of the engagement members 503b, 503c, 505b, 505c can be chamfered, curved or angled so that they can more easily slide along and over the liquid chamber and push against the liquid chamber.

[0277] In some configurations, the engagement members 503b, 503c, 505b, 505c may be formed from or include (e.g., as an overmolded layer) a soft (or at least softer than the handle 500') resilient material or component to prevent damage to the liquid chamber 300 that may occur if the handle is moved with too much force.

[0278] Each internal engagement member 503b, 505b disposed toward the center of the liquid chamber 300 has a front / rear depth D1 that is less than the depth D2 of the external engagement members 503c, 505c disposed toward the side walls 112, 118 of the housing 100 (FIG. 49). Each internal engagement member 503b, 505b disposed toward the center of the liquid chamber 300 has a height H1 that is less than the height H2 of the external engagement members 503c, 503d disposed toward the side walls 112, 118 of the housing 100 (FIG. 49). Each engagement member 503b, 503c, 505b, 505c has an arcuate engagement surface 503b', 503c', 505b', 505c' that engages the liquid chamber 300 when the handle / lever 500' is lifted. The inner mating surfaces 503b', 505b' have a steeper, more vertical angle and a larger radius of curvature than the respective outer mating surfaces 503c', 505c'.

[0279] The outer engagement members 503c, 505c are arranged to engage the flange 310 of the liquid chamber 300, and the inner engagement members 503b, 505b are arranged to engage the housing 302 of the liquid chamber 300 when the handle / lever 500' is raised from its lowered / closed position, which pushes the liquid chamber 300 to disengage from the guide rail recesses 144a, 146a, overcoming the force of the guide rail ridges 144b, 146b, allowing the user to easily remove the liquid chamber 300 from the chamber compartment 108. Due to the shape, particularly the curvature, of the engagement members 503b, 503c, 505b, 505c, they do not impede the insertion of the liquid chamber 300 into the chamber compartment 108 when the handle / lever 500' is lowered from its raised / open position to insert the liquid chamber 300 into the chamber compartment 108.

[0280] An inner leading edge 503d, 505d of each pusher platform is provided as an arcuate surface having a curvature that at least generally corresponds to the curvature of the housing 302 of the liquid chamber 300. The edges 503d, 505d act as a back stop for the liquid chamber 300 when the handle / lever 500' is in the lowered / closed position.

[0281] In the illustrated form, each pusher 503, 505 has two engagement members 503b, 503c, 505b, 505c, although only a single engagement member could be provided for each pusher. Although the handle / lever 500' could have only a single pusher, two spaced apart pushers would more uniformly separate the liquid chamber 300 from the guide rails 144', 146'.

[0282] In this configuration, there are no inward protrusions that force the liquid chamber 300 to fully engage within the chamber compartment 108, although either or both of those protrusions or a liquid chamber engagement mechanism could be provided. Alternatively, as described above for the previous configuration, this handle / lever 500' could have features on its cross member 506 that engage the liquid chamber 300 within the chamber compartment 108 rather than having an inward protrusion.

[0283] Similarly, the handle 500' may be provided with features that aid in separating the fluid chamber 300 from the detents 144a, 146a.

[0284] It will be appreciated that the detents 144a, 146a may alternatively be used in a configuration with the handle / lever 500 described above.

[0285] 45-48 show details of a pivot mechanism of handle 500' that can also be used with handle 500. A rear portion of each side arm 502', 504' includes an inwardly directed pivot projection 502b, 504b that is received within a pivot hole 502c, 504c in ledge 132. Arms 502', 504' are captured laterally between ledge 132 and respective inner side walls 112, 118 such that the pivot cannot move laterally but arms 502', 504' can pivot about a horizontal pivot axis. Extending inwardly from interconnecting walls 114, 120 are ledge projections 114a, 120a to prevent the pivot from lifting vertically.

[0286] 53 and 54 show the display and user interface module 14 of the device 10. The module 14 includes a touch screen display 600 that provides a user of the device 10 with information regarding the status of the device 10, the status of the therapy being provided, the status of the patient, and / or the status of accessories or peripheral devices associated with the device 10. The display 600 may include one or more displays 602a, 602b, 602c, each of which provides information regarding a respective aspect of the therapy, such as gas temperature, oxygen concentration, gas flow rate, blood oxygen concentration (SpO2), and heart rate. Other displays may also be provided. The displays may also act as touch screen "buttons," where by pressing one of the displays, the user may change the settings of an aspect of the therapy of the device 10 and / or of an accessory or peripheral device associated with the device 10, causing the controller 13 to adjust the device 10 or the accessory or peripheral device to the new settings.

[0287] The touch screen 600 can be in electrical communication with an interface printed circuit board 604 , which is in electrical communication with one or both of the electronic circuit boards 272 .

[0288] The interface 14 may also have one or more physical buttons that allow a user to power on or off the device 10 or change settings. The top wall 124 is advantageously angled toward the front of the device 10, for example at a 10 degree angle relative to the horizontal. This allows ease of use of the interface from the front of the device 10.

[0289] A portion of the top wall 124 defines an integrally formed cavity 606 that includes an outer cylindrical portion 608, an inner cylindrical portion 610, and an annular wall 612 that extends between and interconnects the bottom edges of the two cylindrical wall portions 608, 610. The axial direction of the cylindrical portions 608, 610 corresponds to the opening and closing direction of an injection mold to allow the component to be injection molded.

[0290] A flexible button 614 is disposed adjacent the top of the outer cylindrical wall portion 608 and is substantially aligned with the top wall 124. The underside of the button 614 includes an elongated pusher 616 that extends through the inner cylindrical wall portion 610 and interacts with a microswitch 618 on the PCB 604. The outer cylindrical wall portion 608, the annular wall 612 and the inner cylindrical wall portion 610 form a continuous, unbroken, liquid impermeable arrangement that acts as a liquid reservoir to capture any liquid that may enter the button mechanism around the flexible button 614 and prevent the liquid from reaching the underlying PCB 604.

[0291] The interface 14 may have one, two or more buttons having this configuration, or alternatively, the interface 14 may simply be touch screen controlled and have no buttons.

[0292] 55-64 show an alternative configuration of the flow treatment device 10' showing an alternatively configured handle / lever 1500. The flow treatment device 10' has the features and functionality described in connection with the different configurations above, which features will not be repeated here for brevity. For the features shown, like numbers refer to like parts with the addition of a prime (') for most components and 1500 for the handle / lever.

[0293] This configuration differs from the configurations discussed above in that the handle / lever 1500 is a one-sided configuration. That is, only one side of the handle / lever 1500 is pivotally connected to the main housing of the flow treatment device 10', and there is no pivotal connection to the main housing on the other side of the handle / lever 1500. In the illustrated form, the left side of the handle / lever 1500 is pivotally connected to the main housing. However, in alternative configurations, only the right side can be pivotally connected to the main housing.

[0294] The handle / lever 1500 and main housing are modified from those described above to accommodate that attachment.

[0295] The handle / lever has a left arm 1502 pivotally attached to the left inner wall 112' of the upper chassis 102'. The left arm 1502 is configured to be substantially flush with the interconnecting wall 114' when the handle 1500 is in the lowered or closed position of FIG. 55. Rather than a right arm, the handle / lever further comprises a right member 1504 that is shorter than the left arm 1502 and is not pivotally attached to the right inner wall 118' of the upper chassis 102'. The right member 1504 is configured to be substantially flush with the interconnecting wall 120' when the handle 1500 is in the lowered or closed position of FIG. 55. The main housing is recessed so that the left arm 1502 and the right member 1504 can be substantially flush with the interconnecting walls. The right interconnecting wall 120' extends further toward the front of the device 10' than the left interconnecting wall 114' due to the shorter right member 1504.

[0296] A cross-piece handle portion 1506 interconnects the front ends of the left arm 1502 and the right member 1504 and forms an engagement area for grasping by the fingers of a user. When the handle 1500 is in a raised position, for example as shown in FIG. 57, the cross-piece 1506 can act as a carrying handle for the device 10'. When the handle / lever 1500 is raised, the liquid chamber 300' can be inserted into or removed from the chamber compartment 108'. When the handle / lever 1500 is in a lowered position, it blocks or prevents the liquid chamber 300' from being removed from the chamber compartment 108'.

[0297] Rather than having a right side member 1504, the handle / lever 1500 can terminate on the right side of the cross member 1506. However, having a rearward facing member 1504 is preferred because it reduces the likelihood that the device 10' will be dropped while it is being transported.

[0298] In the closed or fully lowered position of the handle / lever 1500 shown in FIG. 55, the cross member 1506 sits in the recess 242' at the front of the main housing and surrounds a portion of the chamber compartment. Although no joints are shown in the figure, the main housing can be formed with an upper chassis part 102' and a lower chassis part 202', and the recess 242' is formed in the appropriate chassis part. The handle / lever 1500 and / or the recess 242' can have a positive engagement mechanism, such as one of those described above, to positively engage the handle / lever 1500 in the lowered or closed position. With the handle / lever 1500 in the lowered or closed position, a portion of the cross member 1506 protrudes above the floor of the chamber compartment 108' and above the flange 310' of the liquid chamber 300' sufficiently to prevent the liquid chamber 300' from sliding forward and being removed from the liquid chamber compartment 108'. Although not shown in this configuration, guide rails are provided to prevent the liquid chamber 300' from being vertically lifted and removed from the liquid chamber compartment 108' when the handle / lever 1500 is in the lowered or closed position. Because the handle / lever surrounds a portion of the chamber compartment when the lever is in the closed or fully lowered position, a large space is created between the cross member of the handle / lever and the housing of the device when the handle / lever is in the fully raised position, including a large opening in front of and around the chamber compartment, allowing a user's fingers to easily fit between the housing wall and the liquid chamber, allowing easy insertion and removal of the liquid chamber into and from the chamber compartment.

[0299] 55, 56 and 60-64 show details of the pivot mechanism of the handle / lever 1500. A rear portion of the left arm 1502 is connected to a pivot arm 1502d. The pivot arm includes a forward arcuate portion 1502e that extends downwardly and rearwardly from the left arm 1502 when the handle is in the lowered or closed position. A rear portion of the forward arcuate portion 1502e is connected to a straight portion 1502f that extends upwardly and forwardly therefrom when the handle is in the lowered or closed position. An upper end of the straight portion 1502f is coupled to an inwardly and / or outwardly directed pivot projection 1502b that is received in a pivot hole 1502c in a portion of the housing corresponding to the ledge projection 132' and / or in the left inner wall 112'. The arm 1502 is captured laterally between the ledge 132' and the inner wall 112' such that the pivot projection 1502b cannot move laterally, but the arm 1502 can pivot about a horizontal pivot axis.

[0300] As shown in Figures 56, 61 and 62, the left inner wall 112' is provided with a molded recess 112a' that receives the pivot arm 1502d. The recess 112a' allows the pivot arm 1502d to move through its range of motion from the position shown in Figure 60 to the position shown in Figure 62 without significantly intruding into the space within the liquid chamber compartment 108'.

[0301] The upper, forward portion of the main housing includes a platform 150'. The platform 150' may also include an opening and may be removable to act as a removable retaining cover for a removable elbow as described above for the configuration. An upper portion 151' of the platform forms a substantially continuous portion of the forward angled surface 124' and extends forwardly and downwardly therefrom. A leading edge 151a' of the upper portion 151' extends in a more horizontal or upward direction than the remainder of the upper portion 151'.

[0302] This configuration is suitable for use with a liquid chamber 300' that is filled from a flexible liquid bag. Hospitals and medical facilities typically have bag stands to support the liquid bag, but people do not usually have suitable bag stands in a home environment. This configuration allows the liquid bag to rest on top of the main housing, particularly on the platform 150'. The leading edge 151a' reduces the chance of the bag sliding forward off the housing. The one-sided handle / lever 1500 allows the handle / lever 1500 to be raised and lowered, while when the handle / lever 1500 is in the raised position, the liquid bag and / or a liquid tube that delivers liquid from the liquid bag to the liquid chamber 300 can be fed through the space between the right member 1504 of the handle / lever 1500 and the main housing. No long tubes need to be provided.

[0303] The handle / lever 1500 can include one or more features, such as openings 502a, 504a as shown in FIG. 52, to guide the liquid tube from above into the liquid chamber. The tube is coupled to the liquid chamber. The liquid chamber can include a float valve that controls the flow of liquid from the tube into the liquid chamber.

[0304] As shown in Figures 57-59, the leading edge 151a also preferably forms a recess that receives the rear upper edge of the liquid chamber 300' when fully engaged within the liquid chamber section 108'.

[0305] The handle / lever 1500 is provided with one or more features that aid in the insertion, retention and / or removal of the liquid chamber 300' from the chamber compartment 108'. Those features may be any one or more of the features described above in connection with the configurations.

[0306] By providing a handle / lever to aid in the insertion and / or retention of the liquid chamber in and / or removal from the chamber compartment, a user can easily ensure that the liquid chamber is fully inserted into the chamber, while still being able to easily remove the liquid chamber from the chamber compartment if desired. This is particularly advantageous for users with limited mobility. Similarly, by providing a detent to aid in the insertion and / or retention of the liquid chamber in the chamber compartment, a user can easily ensure that the liquid chamber is fully inserted into the chamber compartment. Full or accurate insertion and / or retention may be necessary to ensure that an adequate seal is obtained and maintained between the liquid chamber and other components that form part of the gas flow path.

[0307] 6. Removable Gas Flow Tubes or Elbows and Receptacles - Alternative Configurations Figures 66-71 and 72-75 respectively show two alternative gas flow tubes or elbows 1342 and 2342 that may be used in the flow treatment devices described herein. Unless otherwise noted below, gas flow tubes or elbows 1342 and 2342 have the features and functionality described above in connection with removable elbow 342, and like reference numerals refer to like parts with the increments of 1000 and 2000, respectively, added to each reference numeral.

[0308] The removable elbow 1342 of FIGS. 66-71 is provided with an internal pooling area 1371 in the gas flow path at the interface of the two arms of the substantially L-shape, i.e., the interface of the gas flow path of the manifold gas inlet port 1340 (humidified gas return) and the gas flow path of the patient outlet port 1344. As shown in FIG. 69, the pooling area 1371 is provided by an enlarged area in the gas flow path. The pooling area is positioned vertically lower than the adjacent base wall portion 1340a of the manifold gas inlet port, thereby allowing liquid to pool in the pooling area 1371 to a depth of the adjacent base wall portion 1340a. The pooling area 1371 allows the thermistor 1366d of the PCB connector 1366 (described below) to determine a temperature that is typical / gas characteristic of the gas flow path 1364. This can help determine the wet bulb temperature of the gas passing through the elbow 1342.

[0309] The body of the removable elbow is provided with an arcuate transition region 1372 which extends downwardly and away from the adjacent base wall portion 1340a at a relatively shallow angle. The arcuate transition region 1372 forms a forward portion of a pool region 1371. The aftmost portion of the transition region 1372 terminates at an upper end of a wall portion 1373 which extends downwardly and rearwardly at a second, relatively steeper angle. The wall portion 1373 forms the front wall of a support portion 1374 of the body. The upper interior of the support portion 1374 forms the rear portion of the pool region 1371, which extends upwardly and rearwardly from its interface with the transition region 1372.

[0310] A lower angled outer edge 1375 of support portion 1374 extends upwardly and rearwardly from the base of front wall 1373. Elbow support portion 1374 serves two purposes. The first purpose is to enable attachment of PCB electrical connector 1366 to removable elbow 1342, as described below. The second purpose is to provide a support surface to help align PCB connector 1366 during insertion of the removable elbow into place within the main housing of the device.

[0311] As can be seen most clearly in FIG. 69, the lower angled outer edge 1375 is oriented at a non-parallel and non-coaxial angle α relative to the longitudinal axis 1340A of the manifold gas inlet port 1340. The angle can be from about -15 degrees (downward) to about +30 degrees (upward) relative to the longitudinal axis 1340A. In one form, the angle is from about 0 degrees to about 30 degrees upward relative to the longitudinal axis 1340A. Advantageously, the upper limit is 30 degrees, since too much incline relative to the PCB electrical connector 1366 may cause the elbow to provide an undesirably shallow flow path through the elbow and prevent the provision of a useful pooling area. In one form, the angle is from about 0 degrees to about 15 degrees upward relative to the longitudinal axis 1340A. In one form, the angle is about 15 degrees upward relative to the longitudinal axis 1340A. Within these ranges, the angles can be non-parallel and non-coaxial with respect to the longitudinal axis, and can be oriented at least + / - 5 degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis 1340A. In alternative forms, the angles can be parallel or coaxial with respect to the longitudinal axis 1340A. The PCB electrical connector 1366 is attached to the support portion 1374 so as to be collinear with or parallel to the lower angled outer edge 1375. Thus, the PCB connector also advantageously extends upward and rearward at an angle of about -15 degrees to about +30 degrees, in one form about 0 degrees to about +30 degrees, in one form about 0 degrees to about +15 degrees, in one form about +15 degrees, with respect to the longitudinal axis 1340A. Again, within these ranges, the angles can be non-zero, for example at least + / - 5 degrees, with respect to the longitudinal axis. The base portion 1368b of the electrical connector portion can be aligned with the lower wall portion 1375. In this case, it can be seen that the interface of the PCB electrical connector with the elbow body is lower than that shown in FIG.

[0312] 76 and 77 show an upper main chassis / display and user interface carrier 2102 of an alternative configuration of the main housing that can be used with the flow treatment devices described above in combination with a removable elbow 1342 or 2342. Unless otherwise noted below, features and functions will be the same as those described above for the flow treatment devices and like reference numerals refer to like parts with 2000 added to each reference numeral.

[0313] The upper chassis / carrier 2102 includes an elbow retainer 2160 extending forward from the wall 2130. The retainer 2160 includes a base wall 2161 and two spaced apart upright side walls 2162. Inwardly facing flanges 2163 extend from the upper ends of the side walls 2162 toward one another with the spacing between the flanges 2163 being large enough to allow the patient outlet port 1344 to extend upwardly therebetween. An upright ridge 2163a is formed by a substantially vertical wall portion at the inner edge of each flange 2163. The flanges 2163 and ridges 2163a are arcuate to form a mouth that receives the patient outlet port 1344. The upright ridges are positioned to closely contact the periphery of the patient outlet port 1344 when the removable elbow is received within the retainer 2160. The rear portion 2164 of the retainer has a dimension smaller than the dimension of the patient exit port 1344 and is adapted to allow the power connector portion 1368a of the body to protrude upwardly therethrough.

[0314] The wall 2162, flange 2163 and ridge 2163a form a hood area that substantially matches the shape of the removable elbow 1342, 2342 when inserted into the elbow retainer. The hood area helps to hold the elbow in place, helps to reduce liquid ingress into the elbow or PCB connector, and encapsulates the PCB connector. The ridge 2163a further helps to direct liquid away from the connection between the PCB connector and connector 278.

[0315] To insert the elbow into the retainer 2160, the elbow is oriented so that the bottom wall portion 1375 of the support portion rests on the base wall 2161 of the retainer. The elbow is moved rearward so that the patient outlet port 1344 is located between the flanges, and the connector 1366 is inserted to extend through a slot in the retainer so that it can be inserted into the female connector 278 located in the upper chassis at the rear of the retainer 2160. The retainer is oriented at an angle corresponding to the angle α of the PCB connector so that the PCB connector is parallel to the base wall 2161. The orientation of the manifold gas inlet port 1340 relative to the PCB connector allows for a horizontal connection with the liquid chamber. Thus, the PCB connector can be inserted directly into the retainer 2160 without having to tilt or adjust the elbow to achieve. In an alternative configuration, the PCB connector and elbow retainer 2160 can be oriented at different angles, such as those described above in connection with the elbow.

[0316] Any liquid that may get into the main housing by having the PCB connector at a non-horizontal angle in use should be expelled from the connector. Again, a removable retaining cover 150 is used to help maintain the removable elbow in place within the housing, with the operation of the cover and the interaction of the elbow and liquid chamber being as described above. The hood provides a lower profile retaining portion 2160 than that shown in FIG. 30, and the hood is sized to receive only the lower portion of the elbow 1342 that houses the PCB connector, rather than the full height of the manifold gas inlet port.

[0317] In this configuration, the port 1344 is positioned closer to the fluid chamber than in the device of Figure 24, which means that the breathing conduit 16 does not obstruct the user display and user interface module as in the device of Figure 24. As a result, the elbow is shorter in length than the elbow of Figure 28.

[0318] 70 and 71 show details of the PCB electrical connector 1366 of the removable elbow 1342. The connector 1366 comprises a plastic substrate 1366a having a plurality of conductive tracks 1366b embedded therein. At one end of the PCB, the end that protrudes from the elbow, a plurality of conductive connector portions or pins 1366c are provided. The tracks are configured to engage complementary conductors of the female connector 278 to provide an electrical and / or communication coupling of the PCB connector to other components of the device. The connector portions 1366c and tracks 1366b may all be provided on one side of the PCB connector, or some may be provided on both sides of the PCB connector to reduce the risk of short circuits.

[0319] In the configuration shown in FIG. 71, four of the conductive connector portions 1366c are in electrical communication with a thermistor 1366d located at or adjacent to the opposite end of the PCB connector and embedded in the elbow body. The remaining two connector portions 1366c are in electrical communication with a fitting 1366e that receives the base of two substantially rigid upwardly projecting pin connectors 1368 to couple with and provide power to the heater wire 3c in the patient breathing conduit. As shown in FIG. 70, the pin connectors 1368 can be rigid members that extend at a non-perpendicular angle from the top of the PCB, the non-perpendicular angle corresponding to an angle α of the PCB connector relative to the longitudinal axis 1340A (FIG. 69). The pin connectors can be at any suitable angle, including perpendicular, to the PCB connector. The pin connectors advantageously extend substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the patient outlet port 1344.

[0320] Two thermistors 1366d are surface mounted on the front of the PCB connector and embedded in the body of the removable elbow. They are located close to the pool area 1371, approximately at the location 1366d shown in FIG. 69. By placing them close to the pool area, they can provide a more representative gas measurement. Digital temperature sensors can be used instead of the thermistors.

[0321] The PCB connector can be attached to the elbow body in any suitable manner. In one example, if a surface mount thermistor 1366d is used in the PCB connector, single shot overmolding can be used to manufacture the elbow over the PCB connector to simplify manufacturing. Single shot overmolding can also encase the elongated pin connector 1368 at the chimney portion 1368a. Holes 1366g in the PCB allow the overmolding material to flow through the PCB, thereby reducing or preventing deflection of the PCB connector that may otherwise occur due to molding pressure. The lower portion 1368b of the elbow body directly below the electrical connector portion below the PCB connector acts to cover the solder points at the base of the pin connector.

[0322] The shape of the pool area and surrounding elbow body is configured to remove as much mass as possible from around the thermistors to improve their performance. The pool area can also aid in gas flow through the removable elbow by inhibiting the gas from "sticking" too tightly to the inner walls.

[0323] Suitable seals are provided at the removable elbow 1342. For example, the manifold gas inlet port 1340 may be provided with a T-seal to seal between it and the liquid chamber gas outlet port 308, and the patient outlet port 1344 may be provided with an O-ring seal.

[0324] Similar to the elbow 1342 described above, the removable elbow 2342 is provided with a support portion 2374 which extends generally rearwardly from the elbow body at the base of the interface of the two arms of the substantially L-shape, i.e., substantially at the interface of the manifold gas inlet port 1340 and the patient outlet port 1344. The support portion comprises a body portion having a front wall 2373 and a lower angled outer edge 2375 extending rearwardly therefrom. The body portion is shaped and configured to receive the PCB electrical connector 2366.

[0325] A lower angled outer edge 2375 extends upwardly and rearwardly from the base of the front wall 2373. The elbow support portion 2374 serves two purposes. The first purpose is to provide mounting and support for the PCB electrical connector 2366 relative to the removable elbow 2342, as described below. The second purpose is to provide a support surface to aid in aligning the PCB connector during insertion of the removable elbow into place in the main housing of the device.

[0326] The support portion 2374 provides additional plastic around the PCB connector to encapsulate it. When the elbow 2342 is connected to the retainer 2160, the support portion 2374 interacts with the underside of the hood to reduce or prevent vertical movement and rotation of the elbow about axis 2340A.

[0327] As can be seen most clearly in FIG. 72, the lower angled outer edge 2375 is oriented at a non-parallel and non-coaxial angle α relative to the longitudinal axis 2340A of the manifold gas inlet portion 2340. The angle can be from about -15 degrees (downward) to about +30 degrees (upward) relative to the longitudinal axis 2340A. In one form, the angle is from about 0 degrees to about 30 degrees upward relative to the longitudinal axis 2340A. Advantageously, the upper limit is 30 degrees, since too much inclination relative to the PCB electrical connector 2366 may cause the elbow to provide an undesirably shallow flow path through the elbow and prevent the provision of a useful pool area. In one form, the angle is from about 0 degrees to about 15 degrees upward relative to the longitudinal axis 2340A. In one form, the angle is from about 15 degrees upward relative to the longitudinal axis 2340A. Within these ranges, the angles can be non-parallel and non-coaxial to the longitudinal axis and can be oriented at least + / - 5 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis 2340A. In alternative forms, the angles can be parallel or coaxial to the longitudinal axis 2340A. The PCB electrical connector 2366 is attached to the support portion 2374 so as to be parallel to the lower angled outer edge 2375. Thus, the PCB connector also advantageously extends upward and rearward at an angle of about -15 degrees to about +30 degrees, in one form about 0 degrees to about +30 degrees, in one form about 0 degrees to about +15 degrees, in one form about +15 degrees, relative to the longitudinal axis 2340A. Again, within these ranges, the angles can be non-zero, for example at least + / - 5 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis.

[0328] This allows the removable elbow 2342 to be inserted into the elbow retaining portion 2160 of the upper main chassis of FIGS. 76 and 77 in a similar manner as described above for elbow 1342.

[0329] The removable elbow 2342 in Figures 72-75 is shown without an interior pooled region, however, a pooled region may be provided as outlined for the elbow in Figures 66-71. In one configuration, a pooled region may be provided on the interior of the elbow 2342 without modifying the exterior shape of the elbow. By not including a pooled region, the interior surface of the elbow may be smoother (e.g., configured as shown in Figure 29). This may also allow for a more uniform wall thickness, which may strengthen the elbow.

[0330] FIG. 75 shows details of the PCB electrical connector 2366 of the removable elbow 2342. The connector 2366 comprises a plastic substrate 2366a in which a number of conductive tracks 2366b are embedded. A number of conductive connector portions or pins 2366c are provided at the end of the PCB, the end that protrudes from the elbow in use. The connector portions are configured to engage complementary conductors of the female connector 278 to provide electrical and / or communication coupling of the PCB to other components of the device. In the illustrated form, some of the connector portions 2366c are in electrical communication with thermistors 2366d located at or adjacent the opposite end of the PCB connector and embedded in the elbow body. Each thermistor has two tracks extending from the connector portion 2366c to the thermistor, the two tracks extending to the thermistor being located on opposite sides of the PCB to reduce the risk of shorting between the tracks. The two connector portions 2366c are in electrical communication with a fitting 2366e which receives two upwardly projecting substantially rigid pin connectors 2368 to couple to and provide power to the heater wires in the patient breathing conduit. Again, these tracks can be provided on both sides of the PCB to reduce the risk of short circuits. The pin connectors are configured and angled as shown in FIG. 70. Further connector portions 2366c can be used to provide power or provide communication coupling for other components.

[0331] Two of the tracks are coupled to device 2366f, which is configured to provide functionality that may include one or more of identification, calibration functions, and information capture, such as, for example, hours of use, power levels, and sanitization. For example, device 2366f can be configured to store and / or communicate usage / life information of a removable gas flow tube / elbow. Example information may include one or more of tracking data, how much the removable gas flow tube / elbow has been used, when the removable gas flow tube / elbow was first used, determining the removable gas flow tube / elbow lifespan (e.g., based on date of manufacture), how many times the removable gas flow tube / elbow has been used, determining and logging the connection / disconnection of the removable gas flow tube / elbow, determining if disinfection has occurred, how many times the removable gas flow tube / elbow has been disinfected, time of use since last disinfection, when the removable gas flow tube / elbow should be disinfected, power level, unique ID, calibration, when the removable gas flow tube / elbow should be replaced. The elbow may have a specified lifespan stored in the device 2366f, such as up to five years from manufacture, or a shorter period, such as a one year lifespan. In some configurations, the removable gas flow tube / elbow can store in the device 2366f a specified maximum number of disinfection cycles before the removable tube / elbow should be replaced. For example, the maximum number of disinfection cycles can be specified in number of disinfection cycles / week for a given number of weeks. For example, for a removable gas flow tube / elbow having a maximum usable life of one year, the maximum number of disinfection cycles can be 52 cycles, i.e., 1 cycle / week for one year. As another example, for a removable gas flow tube / elbow having a maximum usable life of five years, the maximum number of disinfection cycles can be 260 cycles, i.e., 1 cycle / week for five years.

[0332] The device 2366f may include, for example, one or more of a microprocessor, a memory, or a microprocessor with an embedded memory. In one form, the device 2366f is an EEPROM. In some configurations, the device 2366f may be a flash memory or some other type of memory. The device 2366f may be configured to store functional data or to communicate functional data to the controller 13 of the apparatus via a connector portion or via a suitable wireless transmission protocol, such as, for example, WI-FI, Bluetooth, or GSM.

[0333] The electronic circuitry of the removable elbow may be sealed against the ingress of liquids or gases by potting.

[0334] The PCB electrical connector may be provided with one or more openings 2366g to aid in attachment of the PCB connector to the elbow body and / or reduce liquid ingress into the PCB. In the illustrated form, the PCB is provided with two sets of openings: one relatively large opening near the narrow end of the PCB adjacent the thermistor tail 2366d, and five relatively smaller openings located closer to the wider end of the PCB with the connector 2366c. Two of the smaller openings are also located between the larger and smaller openings. However, this configuration may be modified.

[0335] Two thermistors 2366d are surface mounted on the front of the PCB connector and embedded in the body of the removable elbow. They are located approximately at location 2366d shown in FIG. 72, close to the gas flow passage 2364. The plastic covering the thermistors can be thinned to facilitate temperature measurement, which may result in slight variations in the internal curvature of the elbow from that shown.

[0336] The PCB connector 2366 can be attached to the elbow body in any suitable manner. In one example, if a surface mount thermistor 2366d is used in the PCB connector, the elbow can be manufactured in the PCB connector using a single shot overmolding to simplify manufacturing. The single shot overmolding can also encase the elongated pin connector 2368 at the chimney portion 2368a. The holes in the PCB allow the overmolding material to flow through the PCB to reduce or prevent PCB deflection that may otherwise occur due to molding pressure.

[0337] A digital temperature sensor can be used instead of the thermistor.

[0338] The support portion 2374 provides protection for the PCB. It can serve to reduce liquid ingress to the PCB by plugging the connection between the PCB connector and the main control board, along with an optional seal if desired or required. The support portion 2374 helps to fill the slot that receives the PCB when mated to the elbow retainer. Thus, if liquid drips / splashes into the mating area, the support portion abuts against the plastic of the retainer surrounding the slot, reducing the chance of liquid reaching the PCB connector inside. If the support portion was not present, there would be a higher chance that liquid could enter through the gap between the PCB and the retainer slot when the PCB and retainer are mated.

[0339] This is also useful in keeping water out of the electrical connectors and / or control board within the elbow holder.

[0340] The seal can be located in the additional plastic of the support portion 2374, around the portion of the PCB connector / support portion that presses against the elbow retainer slot when inserted, or around the electrical connector that is in the slot to help seal between the PCB connector and the retainer connector.

[0341] A combination of seals may be used.

[0342] These features combined with the non-horizontal angle of the PCB connector in use help draw liquids out of the PCB connector. The plastic surrounds the sides and top of the PCB so that there is no joint between the PCB and the elbow where liquid can get in. Support portion 2374 also provides protection for the thin walled portion at the base of portion 2368a, the plastic of the support portion encapsulating the PCB connector. It also provides a flat base to aid in alignment during insertion of the PCB connector into the elbow retainer.

[0343] The PCB connector can be plasma treated or coated with a conformal coating to aid in the bond between the PCB and the overmolded elbow.

[0344] A suitable seal is provided at the removable elbow 2342. For example, the manifold gas inlet port 2340 may be provided with a T-seal to seal between it and the liquid chamber gas outlet port 308, and the patient outlet port 2344 may be provided with an O-ring seal or other seal. A T-seal may provide a symmetrical seal that is easier to manufacture. A T-seal may deflect over a wide range of heights (where the insertion / removal parts contact the seal) in both the insertion and removal directions, making it more versatile than an O-seal.

[0345] FIG. 137 shows an exemplary T-seal 2342T in place in the manifold gas inlet port 2340 of the removable elbow 2342. The T-seal 2342T is received in an annular recess 2340R adjacent the outer end of the manifold gas inlet port 2340. As shown in FIG. 138, the T-seal has a relatively wide annular base or body 2342T1 sized and configured to be received in the annular recess of the elbow 2342. The body 2342T1 defines a recess 2342T2 that fits into the annular body portion of the annular recess of the elbow 2342. The radial thickness of the body 2342T1 can be sized to be slightly less than the radial thickness of the recess.

[0346] An annular sealing projection 2342T3 projects radially outward from the body 2342T1 and beyond the periphery of the manifold gas inlet port 2340 to seal against the inner surface of the liquid chamber gas outlet port 308. The annular sealing projection 2342T3 comprises a relatively narrow resilient annular rib 2342T4 extending radially outward from the body and a relatively wide bobble tip or annular head 2342T5 having a spherical cross-sectional shape to provide a seal against the inner surface of the liquid chamber gas outlet port 308.

[0347] The bead tip 2342T5 provides a smooth / continuous sealing surface, advantageously reducing clogging or snapping of the seal when changing deflection direction. The bead tip also provides resistance to blow-outs resulting from gas pressure in the circuit. If any burrs remain on the bead tip after manufacturing, the effect of this burr on effective sealing should be reduced since the burr location will no longer be at the contact surface of the liquid chamber gas exit port 308 when the T-seal is deflected. The T-seal can be axially molded so that the burr does not affect sealing. The bead tip 2342T5 can have a non-stick surface finish so that it does not stick to the surface it seals against.

[0348] 139, selected exemplary dimensions and parameters of a T-seal used in the manifold gas inlet port 2340 of the removable elbow 2342T that have been found to improve alignment and sealing between the liquid chamber and the removable elbow are outlined below. The exemplary dimensions and parameters have been selected for the specific embodiment being described, and different values ​​or combinations of dimensions and parameters may be used for different embodiments, applications and / or materials.

[0349] Base width 2342T1': 2.3mm~6mm, for example 6mm It is generally preferred to maximize the base width for a particular application to minimize lifting of the seal base. The base width can be optimized for seal stability. The base width is selected to be thick enough to prevent the base from rolling up or lifting during use, which could compromise the seal.

[0350] Base thickness 2342T'':0.5mm~0.9mm, for example 0.9mm It is selected as a balance between minimizing lift of the base and allowing space for the T seal to deflect when assembled. An excessively large base thickness may result in a compression fit between the base 2342T1 and the bead tip 2342T5 when assembled. If the base is too thick, the deflection of the T may be limited and may result in a compression seal with the base rather than a deflection seal. This may cause the shape to remain deformed over time, which may require more force to create a seal and may lead to failure over time. A thicker base allows more T deflection because the T is less likely to roll up or lift as it deflects.

[0351] Elasticity: for example 10% This configuration is selected to allow stretching of the T-seal 2342T over the recess 2342R of the manifold gas inlet port 2340. If the seal is overstretched it will have increased stress which may tear and may reduce the seal height which may lead to sealing problems. If the seal is not stretched enough it may not hold well on the part. The stretchability is determined by the thickness of the base and any suitable range may be selected to optimize the seal.

[0352] T section / annular rib thickness 2342T4'':0.35mm~0.7mm, e.g. 0.7mm Having a relatively high thickness reduces the stiffness of the seal and helps prevent lifting of the seal base. The thicker the T, the greater the thickness of the base that is needed to prevent the base from lifting or rolling up during use. Other materials can be used with different results.

[0353] Small ball tip diameter 2342T5': 0.6mm~0.9mm, for example 0.9mm This dimension was selected as a combination of maximum resistance to "blow-off" while still providing an acceptable user insertion force and avoiding a compression fit against the seal base 2342T1 when assembled. Blow-off occurs when gas can cause the bead tip to pass beyond the sealing position and lose contact with the sealing surface. This "bead" shape provides a smooth sealing surface and reduces jamming or folding as the seal changes direction of deflection.

[0354] Shore A hardness: for example 60 Shore A In testing of O-rings, it was found that this provided the best trade-off between a relatively soft material that was "sticky" and pushed the seal out of its recess upon insertion, and a relatively hard material that was very plastic and easily tore when assembled. 60 Shore A for a given material (silicone) provided a smooth insertion feel. This material also had higher breaking elongation and tear resistance when compared to an equivalent 70 Shore A grade. The non-stick surface finish inhibits the seal from sticking to the liquid chamber port over time. It will be appreciated that Shore hardness is material selection specific, so different Shore hardnesses will be suitable for different materials, e.g., nitrile, PTFE, EPDM, rubber, fluorocarbon, etc. Depending on the desired properties, different Shore hardnesses may also be suitable.

[0355] For a T-seal, stretchability, non-stickiness and toughness are desirable material properties.

[0356] Insertion of the base 2342T1 of the T-seal into the recess 2340R of the manifold gas outlet port 2340 of the removable elbow 2342 prevents gas flow from getting under the seal and lifting the base 2342T1 of the seal off the elbow during use. The ridges provided by the end walls at either end of the recess minimize the chance of the base of the seal lifting or being damaged when the liquid chamber is assembled with the removable elbow, and help to accurately position the seal and prevent seal migration. The T-shape of the seal provides excellent resistance to leakage.

[0357] The T-seal 2342T may be removable from the elbow 2342 so that the seal can be replaced if necessary.

[0358] In an alternative configuration, the seal can be overmolded onto the removable elbow 2342 or other suitable component. Overmolding the seal onto a component provides greater scope for modifying the dimensions discussed above. For example, the base width 2342T1' can be significantly reduced. The T-seal may not rest within the recess 2340R of the removable elbow 2342, meaning that the seal may occur closer to the outer end of the manifold gas outlet port 2340 without the elbow's manifold gas inlet port 2340 having to be pushed further into the liquid chamber gas outlet port 308 and / or the base 2342T1 of the seal is not lifted during insertion / removal or by flow underneath the seal.

[0359] 140 and 141 show an alternative configuration T-seal 2342T' in place at the gas inlet port 2340 of a modified removable elbow 2342'. Unless otherwise stated below, features and functions are as described above and like reference numerals refer to like parts.

[0360] This configuration differs in that the T-seal 2342T' has an asymmetric shape, with one side of the base 2342T1 being narrower than the other side of the base 2342T1. In the configuration shown, the width of the base 2342T1 on the side of the seal adjacent the outer end of the inlet port 2340 is less than the width of the base 2342T1 on the side of the seal located further away from the outer end of the inlet port. The dimensions and parameters may otherwise be the same as those described above. The inlet port is provided with a recess 2340R, which is a one-sided recess. The recess opens into the outer end of the inlet port 2340, and the inner edge of the recess 2340R forms a shoulder against the edge of the T-seal 2342T'. Overmolding the T-seal onto the inlet port 2340 means that the base 2342T1 of the T-seal 2342T' does not lift off the inlet port 2340 during removal or insertion of the outlet port 2340 into the liquid chamber gas outlet port 308. Alternatively, the inlet port may not be provided with a recess 2340R and the T-seal may be overmolded directly onto the exterior of the port.

[0361] 142 and 143 show an alternative configuration seal 2342T'' in place at the gas inlet port 2340 of a modified removable elbow 2342''. Unless otherwise stated below, features and functions are as described above and like reference numerals refer to like parts.

[0362] The seal 2342T'' is an adapted T-seal similar to an L-seal, having a generally L-shaped configuration, with the annular base 2342T1 of the seal extending from only one side of a radially extending annular rib 2342T3. In the configuration shown, the base 2342T1 extends only from the rib 2342T3 in a direction away from the edge of the inlet port 2340. This configuration allows sealing to occur exactly at the outer edge of the inlet port 2340. The dimensions and parameters can otherwise be the same as described above. The inlet port is provided with a recess 2340R, but it is a one-sided recess. The recess opens into the edge of the inlet port 2340, and the inner edge of the recess 2340R forms a shoulder against the edge of the T-seal 2342T''. Overmolding the T-seal 2342T″ onto the inlet port 2340 means that the base 2342T1 of the seal 2342T″ does not lift off the inlet port 2340 during removal or insertion of the outlet port 2340 into the liquid chamber gas outlet port 308. Alternatively, the inlet port may not be provided with a recess 2340R and the T-seal may be overmolded directly onto the exterior of the port.

[0363] The liquid chamber gas outlet port 308 and / or the gas inlet port 2340 can be provided with one or more alignment features to limit eccentricity between the two ports, thereby reducing the load on the seal. FIG. 144 shows an example where the alignment feature comprises a mechanical standoff located at the gas inlet port 2340. In the form shown, the mechanical standoff is provided by an internal shoulder 2340RS of the seal recess 2340R, which locates and aligns the port during insertion such that the seal only needs to seal rather than align the port or accommodate significant loads from the port. The mechanical standoff can be located in front of or behind the sealing face of the seal and can have any suitable form.

[0364] Utilizing a flexible T-seal or L-seal provides an excellent seal without the need for high forces to couple the liquid chamber to the removable elbow and can maintain an effective seal over time, whereas other types of seals, such as O-ring seals, can creep or reduce sealing over time and require a compression fit.

[0365] Rather than being in the form of an elbow, the gas flow tube 1342, 2342, 2342', 2342'' can have any other suitable configuration depending on the configuration of the device. For example, the gas flow tube can be in a substantially straight or non-straight form with a manifold gas inlet port and a patient outlet port at the end of the tube. The inlet and outlet ports are typically angled from one another. The direction of insertion and removal of the gas flow tube into and from the holder (e.g., forward and rearward) can be angled relative to the longitudinal axis 1340A, 2340A so that the elbow can form a connection in a desired orientation for coupling to the liquid chamber. Depending on the configuration of the gas flow tube, the holder can be modified as desired.

[0366] 7. Motor and / or Sensor Modules - Alternative Configurations Figures 78-100 show an alternative configuration of a removable motor and / or sensor module or subassembly 1400 that may be used as a flow generator in the flow treatment devices described herein. Unless otherwise noted below, the subassembly has the features and functionality described in connection with the subassembly of Figures 16-22f, and like reference numerals refer to like parts with the increment of 1000.

[0367] As mentioned above, the motor and / or sensor module or subassembly 1400 was designed as an individual and sealed component. Any seal that is broken would allow gases such as oxygen to leak into the surrounding environment rather than into the electronics of the device. The module 1400 is located slightly off-center within the device, thereby mounting the filter and oxygen manifold and being located in close proximity to the air / oxygen inlet mechanism 350 of the device. The module 1400 is configured to be replaceable, so that if a sensor fails, the entire module can be replaced. The module can contain only the electronics related to sensing.

[0368] The motor and / or sensor module 1400 comprises three main components: a base 1403 of the subassembly 1400 (on which is disposed a motor 1402 with an impeller forming a blower), an outlet gas flow path and sensing layer 1420 disposed above the base 1403, and a laminated arrangement of a cover layer 1440. The cover layer 1440 and the outlet gas flow path and sensing layer 1420 are typically assembled in use to form the sensing layer. Gas travels through the module 1400 substantially as described above with respect to Figures 16-22f. An opening formed between the blower 1402 and the outlet gas flow path and sensing layer 1420 provides a gas inlet into the module, allowing the temperature of the incoming gas to be measured.

[0369] The base 1403 includes an area 1403A that receives the gas blower motor 1402. The area 1403A may be concave. The diameter of the concave area is selected to match the shape of the underside of the body 1408 of the motor 1402. The area 1403A guides the gas flow to the blower. Ribs on the underside of the base 1403 provide stiffness to the area and combine with the shape of the concave area to reduce noise. In alternative configurations, the area 1403A may be a different shape, for example a non-concave shape.

[0370] As shown in FIG. 79, the base 1403 includes a number of flexible mounts 1411. The flexible mounts act as vibration isolation structures. An engagement plate 1411A is carried by the upper casing of the motor / blower body 1408 and provides slots through which the mounts can slide. Any suitable number of flexible mounts 1411 can be provided. The upper ends of the mounts are received in complementary receiving portions, such as cups, in the outlet gas flow passage and body 1422 of the sensing layer 1420.

[0371] As shown in Figures 78-82, 84, 85 and 88, the base 1403 and body 1422 of the outlet gas flow path and sensing layer 1420 are provided with complementary fastening mechanisms 1405, 1425 for fastening the body 1422 to the base 1403. The base 1403 includes a plurality of upstanding clips 1405 disposed at spaced locations around the periphery of the base. The upper ends of the clips include heads 1405A which are tapered towards their upper ends. The heads include recesses or cutouts which provide a substantially constant cross-sectional area for the plastic to allow it to cool quickly.

[0372] The body 1422 includes a corresponding plurality of receiving members 1425 at spaced locations around the periphery of the body. The receiving members include openings 1425A toward their lower ends that are sized and configured to receive the tapered head 1405A of the clip. The body 1422 can be secured to the base 1403 by moving the body and base toward one another such that the clip head 1405A is received in the opening 1425A. The body can be separated from the base by moving the head 1405A laterally past the opening 1425A and then moving the body away from the base.

[0373] The clips 1405 and receiving members 1425 can be located at or near the outer edges of the base 1403 and body 1422. Preferably, there are at least two clips and receiving members, although there can be three or more. In the illustrated form, the clips 1405 are located on either side of the base 1403 and the receiving members 1425 are located on either side of the body 1422. Alternatively, the clips can be part of the body 1422 and the receiving members can be part of the base 1403, or a combination of clips and receiving members can be attached to both the base 1403 and the body 1422.

[0374] The clip 1405 and receiving member 1425 are configured to be strong enough to allow the removable motor and / or sensor module or subassembly 1400 to be removed from the housing as a single piece, but do not need to support a load once assembled. The clip and receiving member may be used as the sole method of fastening the base and body, or may be used in combination with other fasteners, such as screws. Alternatively, a different fastening method may be used.

[0375] The base 1403 and body 1422 include a plurality of vertically extending wall members 1407, 1427. The wall members are complementary to one another, with an upper end of the lower wall member 1407 engaging a lower end of the upper wall member 1427 when the base 1403 is secured to the body 1422 to prevent the body 1422 from rocking relative to the base 1403. There are at least two wall members at spaced apart locations around the body and base, but there can be three or more wall members. Wall members can also be provided on either side of the clip to help the clip engage more securely, thereby providing a more stable assembly that is less likely to rock. The length and / or shape of the wall members can be varied. An opening 1427A is located in one of the wall members or between two of the wall members to receive a temperature sensor that determines the temperature of the incoming gas. Alternatively, the temperature sensor can be located elsewhere.

[0376] The base 1403 and / or body 1422 also include a number of locating pins 1412 that guide the base and body together during mating. Preferably, there are at least two locating pins 1412 to provide rotational and vertical positioning, although there can be three or more pins 1412.

[0377] The periphery 1403B of the base 1403 is recessed to receive a soft seal, such as an O-ring seal 1403C. The seal 1403C seals the module 1400 to the device housing and prevents trapping of ambient air that bypasses the filter. In particular, the seal 1403C seals between the base 1403 and the peripheral wall of the recess 250 in the device housing. The seal 1403C also provides a force between the module 1400 and the device housing that must be overcome to remove the module 1400 from the housing.

[0378] As shown in FIG. 83, the underside of the base 1403 is scalloped and includes a number of reinforcing ribs 1403D to provide structural strength and stability. The ribs are shown in a radial arrangement, but may be in any suitable configuration. One edge of the periphery 1403B (the bottom edge as shown in FIG. 83) is substantially straight to accommodate the shape of the oxygen inlet manifold of the device. The sides of the periphery may be tapered to aid in finishing with a tool. An opening 1403E is provided in the protruding portion of the base 1403 so that the module 1400 can be fastened to the housing of the device using fasteners such as screws.

[0379] Gas enters the module 1400 through the inlet region and travels to a blower inlet located below the blower 1402 in the recessed portion 1403A of the base 1403. Gas entering the module can act to cool the motor. The gas then travels through the blower 1402 and exits via a blower gas outlet port 1406. Gas exiting the blower gas outlet port 1406 enters a coupling tube or cuff 1409 that couples the blower gas outlet port 1406 to the outlet gas flow path and to a gas inlet port 1430 in the sensing layer 1420. The cuff has a gas inlet port 1409A that is coupled to the blower outlet port 1406, an arcuate body portion 1409B that directs gas upwardly and away from the gas inlet port 1409A, and a gas outlet port 1409C that delivers gas to the outlet gas flow path and to the gas inlet port 1430 in the sensing layer 1420. The arcuate body of the cuff directs gas through approximately a 90 degree angle change, but over a short horizontal distance, from the blower outlet port 1406 to the gas inlet port 1430 while minimizing pressure drop. In one configuration, the maximum pressure drop between the blower outlet port 1406 and the center of the gas flow paths 1426, 1446 is up to 2.5 cmH2O.

[0380] It will be appreciated that the cuff can be configured to direct gas through different angles depending on the configuration required. The inlet port 1409A and outlet port 1409C of the cuff 1409 are sealed to the blower outlet port 1406 and gas inlet port 1430 using a suitable sealing mechanism, for example soft seals such as O-ring seals.

[0381] The cuff 1409 is configured to minimize pressure drop of gas passing through it and isolate blower vibrations from the case of the unit in tight space constraints. The cuff is made of a soft flexible material and has localized areas that act as diaphragms and serve as vibration isolators. Some areas of the cuff can be thinned to provide isolation to prevent or minimize any vibrations from being transmitted to structural components. This can be accomplished by molding relatively thin sections into the cuff. Additionally or alternatively, the cuff can be provided with a concertina to help isolate vibrations from the case of the unit while allowing more movement of the module 1400 within the housing.

[0382] The base 1403 includes an upstanding cuff support member 1407A that projects upwardly at or adjacent the periphery of the base. The cuff support member 1407A has an inwardly concave shape when viewed in a top view and is configured to receive and support the periphery of the cuff 1409. As shown, for example, in FIG. 82, the gas exit port 1409C end of the cuff includes an enlarged diameter that rests on the upper end of the cuff support member 1407A. The cuff support member 1407A helps hold the flexible cuff 1409 in a desired position and prevents the cuff from blowing out of the inlet 1430 under pressure flow. The center of the cuff can be more flexible than either side of the cuff. The cuff can be made from a low compression set material that reduces creep and allows the neck of the cuff to stretch over and over the port to be held firmly in place. The cuff can be provided with one or more grab tabs to aid in the assembly process. The grab tab may be provided in any suitable area of ​​the cuff. However, the grab tab is generally positioned so as not to block / interfere with gas flow in the area where air and / or oxygen or other gases enter the motor and / or sensor module 1400. In one example, the grab tab may be located near the top edge of the cuff. In another example, the grab tab may be located elsewhere on the cuff.

[0383] As an alternative to grab tabs, the edges of the cuff can be chamfered to help hold the cuff in place.

[0384] The gas flow path and sensing layer 1420 includes a gas flow path having one or more sensors, the gas flow path positioned to deliver gas to an exit port of the housing.

[0385] The body 1422 of the gas flow path and sensing layer 1420 defines a lower portion 1426 of the sensing and gas flow path. The cover layer 1440 has a body 1442 that defines an upper portion 1446 of the sensing and gas flow path, the shapes of the upper portion 1426 and the lower portion 1446 substantially corresponding to one another. Thus, although Figures 84 and 85 show the upper portion 1446 of the sensing and gas flow path generally, it is only present when the cover layer 1440 is bonded to the body 1442, as will be apparent from the cover layer shown in Figures 93-95.

[0386] As shown in Figures 88 and 89, the sensing and gas flow passages include arcuate elongated gas flow portions 1428, 1448. Recesses 1433, 1453, 1434, 1454 may be provided adjacent both ends of the arcuate elongated portions of the sensing and gas flow passages.

[0387] In the illustrated configuration, the arcuate elongated gas flow sections 1428, 1448 are curved. In the illustrated configuration, the arcuate elongated gas flow sections have a length of about 85 mm. In the illustrated configuration, the ends of the gas flow passages are more arcuate (i.e., have a narrower radius) than the center, which is still arcuate but is more straight. The gas flow passages are curved to minimize the pressure drop of the gas as it travels along them and also to direct the gas through the module where the gas must make several sharp turns. The curvature helps smooth out the sharp turns as the gas travels through the module. Gas enters the arcuate gas flow passages immediately after / as it leaves the cuff 1409.

[0388] The middle portions 1428A, 1448A of the gas flow passages have a smaller diameter than the portions at either end of the middle portion, so the gas flow passages taper slightly inward before widening again, increasing the velocity of flow through the passages.

[0389] The gas flow outlet port 1452 extends vertically through the body 1442 of the cover layer 1440 and is located at or adjacent the end of the arcuate elongated gas flow portions 1428 , 1448 opposite the inlet port 1430 .

[0390] The sensing and gas flow paths have a curved shape. The gas flow enters the inlet port 1430, flows along the curved sensing and gas flow paths, and exits the opposite side of the sensing and gas flow paths at the outlet port 1452. In some configurations, the inlets and outlets can be arranged in vertically opposite directions, with the gas flow entering the flow path in a vertically upward direction, then turning horizontally, then turning vertically upward again. In some configurations, the sensing and gas flow paths do not have sharp turns. In some configurations, the sensing and gas flow paths have curved ends with a straighter middle section. In some configurations, the sensing and gas flow paths maintain a constant cross-sectional shape throughout the length of the flow path. In some configurations, the sensing and gas flow paths taper slightly inward from the first end of the sensing and gas flow paths and widen again to the second end of the sensing and gas flow paths, which can increase the velocity of the flow. In some configurations, the surfaces of the sensing and gas flow paths are lined with a surface modifier / lubricant to reduce friction within the sensing and gas flow paths. The curved flow path shape can reduce the pressure drop of the gas flow. A number of different flow path configurations can be used.

[0391] The detection and gas flow paths 1426, 1446 have a total distance between the ends of the arcuate elongated gas flow portions 1428, 1448 (between the adjacent portions of the recesses 1433, 1453, 1434, 1454) of about 10 mm to about 1000 mm, about 40 mm to about 200 mm, about 50 mm to about 150 mm, about 70 mm to about 120 mm, about 80 mm to about 100 mm, or between any of the values ​​mentioned above, or about 95 mm.

[0392] The sensing and gas flow paths 1426, 1446 can have diameters greater than about 2 mm and less than about 100 mm, between about 5 mm and about 50 mm, between about 10 mm and about 30 mm, between about 15 mm and about 25 mm, between any of the values ​​mentioned above, or about 16 mm. By reducing the diameter of the flow paths, gas velocities can increase at high flow rates beyond useful velocities, which can lead to pressure drops. By increasing the diameter of the flow paths, more space can be taken up in the system. Thus, an optimal balance can be obtained according to the ranges mentioned above. Equivalent ranges can be used by devices with different flow configurations.

[0393] A slot 1422C is provided in the body 1422 for passing wires from the blower 1402 to a sensing printed circuit board (PCB) 1456. At least a portion of the PCB overlaps the gas flow path and the gas flow path through the sensing layer 1420. The PCB 1456 is sandwiched between the gas flow path sensing layer 1420 and the cover layer 1440. A temperature sensor is located in the gas flow path or in a portion of the PCB that overlaps the gas flow path. As shown in FIG. 100, the PCB 1456 includes a recess 1457 having an arcuate portion 1457A that is shaped complementary to the curvature of the outer edges of the arcuate elongated gas flow portions 1428, 1448. The protruding portion 1456A of the PCB supports the electronic circuitry of the PCB and is configured to be located outside of the flow path.

[0394] As shown in Figures 88 and 89, the upper side of the body 1422 of the layer 1420 is provided with a groove 1423 to receive a soft seal such as an O-ring 1423A which seals against the underside of the PCB 1456. The underside of the body 1442 of the cover layer 1440 is provided with a groove 1443 to receive a soft seal such as an O-ring 1443A which seals against the upper side of the PCB 1456. The grooves 1423, 1443 are advantageously provided with inwardly directed projections 1423B, 1443B (more clearly shown in Figure 99) which help to maintain the O-ring seal in place within the groove.

[0395] The soft seals 1423A, 1443A seal off the high pressure areas of the module as the gas passing through the gas flow paths is pressurized by the blower. The seals 1423A, 1443A prevent gas from leaking and migrating towards the electronics of the device. The soft seals may alternatively be co-molded with the bodies 1422 and 1442, with a soft layer co-molded over a more rigid body.

[0396] As shown in FIG. 92, the underside of the body 1422 is provided with a plurality of reinforcing ribs 1422B of any suitable configuration to reduce distortion.

[0397] As described above with respect to the configuration, the electronic circuitry of the device is located in a low pressure area of ​​the housing to provide a tortuous path that reduces the possibility of liquid or oxygen ingress to the electronic circuitry. The portion of the PCB 1456A that comprises the electronic components is located "outside" the O-rings. The portion of the PCB 1456 that comprises the sensor is inside the flow path and is sealed from the outside by the O-rings 1423A, 1443A that press tightly against the PCB 1456. Thus, ingress of liquid or oxygen can be at least substantially prevented.

[0398] The cover layer 1440 can be coupled to the gas flow passage and sensing layer 1420 using fasteners such as screws. The fasteners sandwich and bond the two parts together, providing a compressive force that seals the soft seal 1423A, 1443A against the PCB substrate 1456. Any suitable number of openings 1422A, 1442A (FIGS. 88 and 89) can be provided to receive the screws. Washers can be used on the underside of the screws. A ridge can be added to the boss over which the inserted screw head sits to minimize the possibility of leakage into the low pressure area around the screw (which can affect performance). Alternatively, an adhesive or filler can be used to seal any possible openings once the screw is inserted. Alternatively, the cover layer 1440 can include a clip or adhesive mechanism that couples with the gas flow passage and sensing layer 1420 to seal between the layers when force is applied.

[0399] As shown in Figures 93 and 94, the top surface of the cover layer 1440 is provided with a plurality of reinforcing ribs 1442B of any suitable configuration to reduce distortion. The cover layer 1440 is provided with a protruding portion 1441A that covers the protruding portion 1456A of the PCB, protecting the electronic circuitry of the PCB. The cover layer 1440 also has a protective portion 1441B that covers and protects the electrical connections to the PCB.

[0400] The cover layer 1440 is provided with a shroud 1441C at the protruding portion 1441A to receive electrical components such as an edge card / connector of a PCB 1456. The edge card / connector may be directly connected to the PCB 1456 or may be connected by wires. The edge card / connector may be used to electrically couple the blower motor to the main device electronics. The shroud is most clearly shown in FIGS. 93-95 and is configured to at least partially enclose and protect the electrical components, and the shroud may be configured to support the electrical components but allow movement of the electrical components in at least one dimension within the shroud. In the illustrated form, the top of the shroud 1441C is open.

[0401] The shroud 1441C comprises an elongated body having a major dimension 1441D and a minor dimension 1441E. A slot 1441F is provided adjacent each end of the body to receive an end of an edge card / PCB. The sides of the body are provided by two resilient supports 1441G that support opposing faces of the edge card / connector.

[0402] In some configurations, the shroud 1441C is configured to allow movement of the edge card / connector in one dimension. For example, if the length of the edge card / connector is shorter than the distance between the ends of the slots 1441F, the shroud 1441C can be configured to allow movement of the edge card / connector laterally (in the short dimension 1441E of the shroud) with the resilient supports 1441G, or it can be configured to allow movement of the edge card / connector in the long dimension 1441D of the shroud. The PCB / edge card can alternatively be as long as the long distance 1441D between the slots and therefore cannot move as freely.

[0403] In some configurations, the shroud 1441C is configured to allow movement of electrical components in two dimensions. For example, if the length of the edge card / connector is shorter than the distance between the ends of the slots 1441F, the shroud can be configured to allow movement of the edge card / connector laterally (in the shorter dimension 1441E of the shroud) with resilient supports 1441G, and can be configured to allow movement of the edge card / connector in the longer dimension 1441D of the shroud. The PCB / edge card can alternatively be the same length as the longer distance 1441D between the slots and therefore cannot move as freely.

[0404] In this application, the shroud does not allow vertical movement of the edge card / connector. In an alternative configuration, the shroud 1441C is configured to allow movement of the electrical components in three dimensions. For example, if the length of the edge card / connector is shorter than the distance between the ends of the slots 1441F, the shroud can be configured to allow lateral movement of the edge card / connector (in the short dimension 1441E of the shroud) with the elastic supports 1441G, can be configured to allow movement of the edge card / connector in the long dimension 1441D of the shroud, and can be configured to allow vertical movement of the edge card / connector. The PCB / edge card can alternatively be as long as the long distance 1441D between the slots and therefore cannot move as freely.

[0405] The shroud can be configured to allow limited movement of the edge card / connector in at least one dimension, the limited movement being sufficient to accommodate allowable misalignment of the components.

[0406] Once the gas has passed through the gas flow path and the sensing layer 1420, it exits the module 1400 through a gas outlet port 1452 which couples with the gas inlet elbow 324. A soft seal, such as an O-ring seal 1452A, may be provided to seal the gas outlet port 1452 of the module 1400. As shown in FIG. 96, the soft seal 1452A seals against the inner wall of the lower outer extension tube or conduit 133 of the housing, or another part of the housing. A soft seal, such as an O-ring seal 324A, may be provided to seal between the elbow 324 and the inner wall of the lower extension tube 133 of the housing, or another part of the housing. The soft seal functions to keep the module 1400 sealed and to reduce the possibility of pressurized gas flowing into the housing of the device. The soft seal may be provided at the gas outlet port 1452 and an annular groove in the gas inlet elbow 324. Alternatively, one of both of the components can have an outwardly facing shoulder to provide a seating surface for the soft seal. For example, as shown in FIG. 96, the seal 1452A can be located on top of the shoulder 1452B of the gas flow outlet port 1452 and the soft seal 324A can be located under the shoulder 324B of the gas flow inlet elbow 324.

[0407] In alternative configurations, different types of seals can be provided to seal between the gas flow outlet port 1452, the gas flow inlet elbow 324, and / or the external extension tube / housing 133. For example, rather than using an O-ring, a face seal, foam or bellows seal can be used, which allows some relative movement of the components in a direction transverse to the direction of gas flow through the components without breaking the seal. A seal that allows that movement does not overly constrain the module 1400 when in place in the lower chassis, but allows some lateral movement between the gas flow outlet port 1452 and the inlet elbow 324 of the module 1400 while allowing a seal between the top surface of the gas flow outlet port 1452 and the bottom surface of the inlet elbow 324. When a bellows seal is used to seal between the gas flow outlet port 1452 and the inlet elbow 324, it allows both some lateral movement and some axial movement between the gas flow outlet port 1452 and the inlet elbow 324 of the module 1400.

[0408] The connection between the gas flow outlet port 1452 and the gas flow inlet elbow 324 is formed on the outside of the motor and / or sensor module 1400 so that any leakage occurring from this connection is directed outside the housing of the device. Because the lower chassis extends around the outside of the inlet elbow 324 and is formed as a single integral piece including the walls and ceiling defining the recess 250 and the gas flow tube 264, in the event of a leak, the gas will follow the path of least resistance, collect outside the leak area and exit to the ambient air via the outside of the inlet elbow 324. It is highly unlikely that gas will flow into the housing and into the electronics of the device via a tortuous path.

[0409] The PCB and other components of the module 1400 may be provided with reliefs or recesses as shown in the various figures to aid in mounting the components or to provide relief relative to other adjacent components.

[0410] As gas enters the module, the overall flow of gas through the module 1400 is represented by the arrows shown in Figure 97. The pressure drop, Q, is equal to Lmin -1 where P is the pressure in Pa and k is the pressure drop coefficient, the equation P=kQ 2 , the pressure drop coefficient from the blower outlet port 1406 to the gas flow outlet port 1452 of the module is approximately 5 mPa (Lmin -1 ) -2 ~Approx. 50mPa(Lmin -1 ) -2 , approximately 10 mPa (Lmin -1 ) -2 ~Approx. 20mPa(Lmin -1 ) -2 , approximately 15 mPa (Lmin -1 ) -2 Equivalently, 100Lmin -1 The pressure drop at the module / blower may be about 50 Pa to about 500 Pa, in one configuration about 100 Pa to about 200 Pa, and in another configuration about 150 Pa. The inlet to the module / blower may add a small pressure drop, but that small drop may be insignificant.

[0411] It will be appreciated that module 1400 may have any of the alternative configurations discussed above for module 400 .

[0412] 8.Alternative configuration 101-179 illustrate features of an alternative configuration of a flow treatment device 3010'. The flow treatment device 3010' may have any of the features and / or functionality described herein in connection with other configurations, which features will not be repeated here for brevity. Generally, like numerals are used to indicate like parts as in the configurations of FIGS. 2-54 or 55-64, with each reference numeral increased by 3000. Similarly, the features and / or functionality of the device 3010' of this alternative configuration may be used in other devices described herein.

[0413] Figures 101-117 show details of the handle mechanism of the flow treatment device 3010' having an alternative configuration of handle / lever 4500. For features shown in these figures, like numerals indicate like parts to Figures 55-64 with the increment of 3000 added to each reference numeral.

[0414] Similar to the configuration of Figures 55-64, the handle / lever 4500 is a one-sided configuration. That is, only one side of the handle / lever 4500 is movably connected to the main housing of the flow treatment device 3010', and there is no pivotal connection to the main housing on the other side of the handle / lever 4500. In the illustrated form, the left side of the handle / lever 4500 is pivotally connected to the main housing. However, in an alternative configuration, only the right side can be pivotally connected to the main housing. This configuration differs from the configuration of Figures 55-64 in that the handle is pivotally and translatably connected to the main housing, thereby causing the handle to move in a path having a varying radius relative to the main housing. The handle / lever 4500 and main housing are modified from those described above to provide for that pivotable and translatable connection.

[0415] The handle / lever 4500 has a left arm 4502 that is pivotally and translatably attached to the left inner wall 3112' of the upper chassis 3102'. The left arm 4502 is configured to be substantially flush with the interconnecting wall 3114' when the handle 4500 is in the lowered or closed position of FIG. 101. The handle / lever further comprises a right member 4504 that is shorter than the left arm 4502 and is not pivotally attached to the right inner wall 3118' of the upper chassis 3102' rather than a right arm. The right member 4504 is configured to be substantially flush with the interconnecting wall 3120' when the handle 4500 is in the lowered or closed position of FIG. 101. A recess is provided in the main housing that allows the left arm 4502 and the right member 4504 to be substantially flush with the interconnecting walls. In the illustrated form, the left member 4502 is longer than the right member 4504 so that it lies substantially flush with the interconnecting wall 3120' and the right member 4504 when the spacer member 3120'' is attached to the upper chassis 3102'' and the handle 4500 is in the lowered or closed position. The spacer member 3120'' can have a label or other indicia containing information identifying the device and / or its user.

[0416] The handle has a cross-piece handle portion 4506 that interconnects the front ends of the left arm 4502 and the right member 4504 and forms an engagement area for a user's fingers to grasp. When the handle 4500 is in a raised position, for example as shown in FIG. 111, the cross-piece 4506 can act as a carrying handle for the device 3010'. With the configuration shown, the cross-piece 4506 is positioned generally above and generally aligned with the center of gravity of the device (including the liquid chamber) when the handle is in a fully raised position. In one configuration, the cross-piece 4506 can be positioned substantially directly above and substantially aligned with the center of gravity of the device. When the handle / lever 4500 is raised, the liquid chamber 300' (e.g., as shown in FIG. 55) can be inserted or removed from the chamber compartment 3108'. When the handle / lever 4500 is in the lowered position, it inhibits or prevents removal of the chamber 300' from the chamber section 3108'.

[0417] Rather than having a right side member 4504, the handle / lever 4500 can terminate on the right side of the cross member 4506. However, having a rearward facing member 4504 is preferred as it reduces the likelihood that the device 3010' will be dropped while it is being supported.

[0418] In the closed or fully lowered position of the handle / lever 4500 shown in FIG. 101, the cross member 4506 sits in the recess 3242' at the front of the main housing and surrounds a portion of the chamber compartment. The main housing may be formed of an upper chassis portion 3102' and a lower chassis portion 3202', with the recess 3242' formed in the appropriate chassis portion. In the illustrated form, both chassis portions have corresponding recesses. The handle / lever 4500 and / or the recess 3242' may have a positive engagement mechanism, such as one of those described above, to positively engage the handle / lever 4500 in the lowered or closed position. With the handle / lever 4500 in the lowered or closed position, a portion of the cross member 4506 protrudes above the floor of the chamber compartment 3108' and above the flange 310' of the liquid chamber 300' sufficiently to prevent the liquid chamber 300' from sliding forward and being removed from the liquid chamber compartment 3108'. The liquid chamber compartment 3108' includes guide rails 3144, 3146 that prevent the liquid chamber 300' from being lifted and vertically removed from the liquid chamber compartment 3108' when the handle / lever 4500 is in the lowered or closed position.

[0419] The guide rails 3144, 3146 can have a curved shape and / or an upper angled leading portion 3144a to aid in entering the liquid chamber 300' into the liquid chamber compartment 3108'. Alternatively or additionally, the guide rails 3144, 3146 can be oriented to be non-parallel to the base of the chamber compartment 3108' and thereby to the heater plate. In particular, the guide rails can be oriented such that the main portion of the length of the guide rail is oriented such that the front of the main portion is disposed further from the base of the liquid chamber 3108' than the rear of the main portion. That is, the front of the main portion is higher than the rear of the main portion, thereby guiding the base of the liquid chamber 300' into closer engagement with the heater plate as the liquid chamber is inserted into the chamber compartment 3108'. This can be in lieu of or in addition to the upper angled leading portion 3144a of the guide rails. The guide rails aid in the usability of the device by guiding the user during insertion of the fluid chamber 300' into the fluid chamber compartment 3108'.

[0420] 102-114 show details of the pivot mechanism of the handle / lever 4500. A rear portion of the left arm 4502 is connected to a pivot arm 4502d. The pivot arm 4502d includes a forward arcuate portion 4502e that extends downward and rearward from the left arm 4502 when the handle is in the lowered or closed position. A rear portion of the forward arcuate portion 4502e is connected to a body portion 4502f that extends upward and forward therefrom when the handle is in the lowered or closed position. The body portion 4502f has a tapered configuration, with a base portion of the body portion being relatively small and an upper end portion of the body portion being relatively large. The body portion 4502f is relatively large to provide additional mass to help stabilize the handle in the raised position and reduce side-to-side movement of the handle in that position.

[0421] A space is provided between the majority of the pivot arm 4502d and the body portion 4502f. The upper end of the body portion 4502f includes two pivot projections, a rear outwardly facing first pivot projection 4502b' and a front inwardly facing first pivot projection 4502b''.

[0422] The rear pivot protrusion 4502b' is received in the first pivot hole 4502c'. The first pivot hole 4502c' is a substantially vertically extending pivot hole comprising a slot or channel. The first pivot hole is generally straight such that the rear pivot protrusion 4502b' follows a substantially linear path as the handle moves between the lowered and raised positions. The rear pivot protrusion 4502b' is retained within the first pivot hole 4502c' but is configured to move substantially freely along the length of the pivot hole.

[0423] The front pivot projection 4502b'' is received in the second pivot hole 4502''. The second pivot hole is a relatively horizontal pivot hole with a slot or channel and extending substantially in the front-to-rear direction of the device. The second pivot hole is generally arcuate such that the front pivot projection 4502b'' follows a substantially arcuate path AP as the handle moves between the lowered and raised positions. In the illustrated form, the second pivot projection 4502c'' substantially follows the curvature of the left interconnect wall 3114' and has a convex curvature relative to a position above the pivot hole. The front pivot projection 4502b'' is retained within the second pivot hole 4502c'' but is configured to move substantially freely along the length of the pivot hole.

[0424] In the configuration shown in FIG. 106, the top end of the first pivot hole 4502c' is located at a higher height than the corresponding portion of the second pivot hole 4502c'', and the two pivot holes overlap laterally (represented by X in FIG. 106). The position represented by X is referred to herein as the origin.

[0425] The rear pivot protrusion 4502b' and the front pivot protrusion 4502b'' may comprise pins that are received in corresponding openings in the body portion 4502f of the handle. Alternatively, the pivot protrusions may be integrally formed with the body portion 4502f.

[0426] The device comprises a handle retainer 4498, shown most clearly in Figures 102, 103 and 104. The handle retainer comprises a substantially hollow body having an upper edge 4498a that substantially corresponds in shape to the underside of the interconnecting wall 3114'. However, the handle retainer 4498 projects further forward than the front edge of the interconnecting wall 3114' such that an opening 4498b in the handle retainer 4498 is located in front of the interconnecting wall 3114'. The shape of the opening 4498 substantially corresponds to the shape of the forward arcuate portion 4502e of the pivot arm. The opening 4498b is sized such that it is only slightly larger than the size of the forward arcuate portion 4502e of the pivot arm, such that there is no space for foreign objects to enter the opening when the handle is raised. Figures 115, 116 and 117 show the positioning of the handle 4500 relative to its opening 4498b.

[0427] The handle retainer 4498 includes a base wall that opens into a liquid drainage channel 4498c that extends downward from the side of the housing. The liquid drainage channel 4498c can communicate with a cavity in the base of the main housing (as shown in Figs. 115 and 116) so that any liquid that enters the handle mechanism can drain through the liquid drainage channel 4498c and exit through the base of the main housing. The handle retainer provides a diffusion-based mechanism for removing liquid / gas. Additionally, the holes in the chassis part for receiving the handle retainer / handle are small and isolated, and spaced from the gas source to reduce the possibility of gas leakage into the case of the device. There is no need to punch an opening in the wall of the chassis part to receive the handle pivot.

[0428] The handle retainer 4498 seals between the upper chassis 3102' and the lower chassis 3202' in the area of ​​the handle retainer. In an alternative configuration, the handle retainer 4498 can seal against the upper chassis 3102' and / or the handle 4500 to prevent liquids / gas from entering the case or the handle retainer. For example, face seals, pivot path seals and / or tongue and groove mechanisms can be provided.

[0429] As shown in FIGURE 104, an inner portion of the left side wall of the handle retaining portion 4498 includes a channel that forms the base 4498d' of the first pivot hole 4502c'. As shown in FIGURE 103, an underside 4498d'' of the outer wall portion of the upper chassis portion 3102' forms the upper edge of the first pivot hole 4502c'.

[0430] As shown in FIG. 104, an inner portion of the right side wall of the handle holder includes a ledge 4498e' that forms the base of the second pivot hole 4502c". As shown in FIG. 103, an underside 4498e'' of the inner wall portion of the upper chassis portion 3102' forms the upper edge of the second pivot hole 4502c".

[0431] To attach the handle 4500 to the device, the handle 4500 is placed in the handle retaining part 4498 such that the second pivot projection 4502b'' is located on the ledge projection 4498e' and the first pivot projection 4502b' is located in the channel 4498d'. The handle and handle retaining part can then be moved into engagement with the upper chassis part 3102' such that the opening 4498f' in the handle retaining part aligns with the opening 4498f'' in the upper chassis part 3102', and fasteners such as screws are used to fasten the components together. Thus, when the handle retaining part 4498 is secured to the upper chassis part, it becomes part of the main housing of the device.

[0432] The movement of the pivot projections 4502b', 4502b'' and the handle 4500 can be divided into several stages. The stages are shown in Figs. 108-112 and graphically represented in Fig. 113. Referring to Fig. 113, the path of movement of the end portion 4506 of the handle relative to the device housing is shown by the curve TEP. The path has a varying radius of movement from the fully lowered position of the end portion of the handle to the fully raised position. In the illustrated form, the path is generally elliptical, i.e., it follows the shape of a portion of an ellipse. In the illustrated form, the path corresponds to slightly more than a quarter of an ellipse. The radial lines represent the general transition points from one stage to another, or indicate the start and end of the stages relative to the position of the end of the handle.

[0433] FIG. 108 shows the handle moved from the fully lowered position. During the first stage P1 of this movement, the second pivot projection 4502b'' remains at the distal forward end of the second pivot hole 4502c''. The first pivot projection 4502b' translates downwardly towards the origin X. This urges the end 4506 of the handle forward and upwardly away from the lowered / closed position. Because the first pivot projection 4502b' is initially located above the origin X, the initial movement of the distal portion of the handle 4500 is away from the housing such that the handle does not collide with the housing at either end.

[0434] 109 shows the handle moved further away from the closed position. During this second stage P2 of movement, the first pivot projection 4502b' translates further down within the first pivot hole 4502c' relative to the housing, toward the lower end of the first pivot hole 4502c'. The second pivot projection 4502b'' begins to translate rearwardly along the second pivot hole 4502c''. This results in a relatively steep upward and rearward movement of the distal end 4506 of the handle relative to the housing.

[0435] 110 shows the handle having moved further away from the closed position. During this third stage P3 of movement, the first pivot projection 4502b' has reached the lower end of the first pivot hole 4502c'. The second pivot projection 4502b'' has translated further rearwardly within the second pivot hole 4502c'' past the origin X. This results in a relatively flat upward and rearward movement of the distal end 4506 of the handle relative to the housing.

[0436] As shown in FIG. 111, during the third stage P3 of movement, the second pivot protrusion 4502b'' reaches the engagement feature 4502ef at or adjacent to the rear end of the second pivot hole 4502c'' after passing the origin X. The purpose of the engagement feature 4502ef is to hold the second pivot protrusion 4502b'' in place at or adjacent to the rear end of the second pivot hole 4502c''.

[0437] FIG. 112 shows the engagement mechanism 4502ef in more detail. In the illustrated form, the engagement mechanism comprises a step 4502ef' at the base of the second pivot hole 4502c'' followed by a reduced depth region 4502ef''. When the handle 4500 reaches its fully raised position, the second pivot projection 4502b'' moves over the step 4502ef' to engage the reduced depth region 4502ef''. The second pivot projection 4502b'' is substantially free to move over the majority of the length of the second pivot hole 4502c'', but fits snugly in the reduced depth region 4502ef''. This arrangement allows the handle to be biased to a fully raised position where the user can transport the device without fear of the handle moving from the fully raised position. When the user has finished transporting the device, a force can be applied to the handle in the forward direction of the device to remove the second pivot projection 4502b'' from the reduced depth region 4502ef''.

[0438] The above describes one exemplary engagement mechanism 4502ef, and other mechanisms can be used. For example, a spring-loaded retainer can be provided to engage the handle in the fully raised position. Additionally or alternatively, an actuator, such as a user-activated button, can be provided to allow a user to bias the first pivot projection away from the engagement mechanism and / or release the spring-loaded retainer. As another example, an engagement mechanism, such as any of those described above, can be used to retain the handle in the fully lowered position in addition to or instead of retaining the handle in the fully raised position.

[0439] The handle 4500 is designed to be generally above the center of gravity of the device, including the liquid chamber that contains the liquid, when in the fully raised position and being used to transport the device 3010'. This reduces rocking of the device when it is being transported, making it easier to transport and reducing the chance of liquid entering the device from the liquid chamber. The device can be configured such that the raised handle is on or generally above the center of mass with a full liquid chamber inserted. The device is heaviest when there is a full liquid chamber, which is when liquid is most likely to spill back into the device. Alternatively, the device can be configured to be on or generally above the center of mass of a device with a partially filled liquid chamber inserted, such as a half-full liquid chamber.

[0440] Depending on whether the full-up handle is located directly above or close to the center of mass of the device, the base of the device can lie substantially flat while the device is being transported, or alternatively, can be slightly tilted while the device is being transported. The force exerted by the user holding the device is not significantly offset from the center of mass. This also means that the liquid in the liquid chamber 300' remains substantially horizontal, reducing the risk of liquid flow into the gas flow path. The generally elliptical path of travel of the handle 4500 allows the handle to move from a fully lowered position to a fully raised position that is generally located above and generally aligned with the center of mass. Furthermore, this path of travel provides a substantially constant spacing between the handle and the top of the housing, at least between the half-up position (FIG. 117) and the fully-up position (FIG. 116) of the handle, minimizing possible pinching points between the handle and the housing.

[0441] The handle is designed such that the pivot projections 4502b', 4502b'' do not support the device load when the handle is in the fully lowered or fully raised position. When the handle is in the fully lowered position, the load is supported by the front wall 4498g of the handle retainer, which engages the lower edge of the front arcuate portion 4502e of the handle. When the handle is in the fully raised position, the load is supported by the upper edge 3114a' of the interconnecting wall 3114', which engages the opposite edge of the front arcuate portion 4502e of the handle. Additionally or alternatively, when the handle is in the fully raised position, the load can be supported by the underside of the interconnecting wall 3114', which is in contact with the underside of the body portion 4502f of the handle, which is shown in FIG. 116 as being in contact with the underside of the interconnecting wall 3114'. The handle mechanism is configured to support the full device load, including the liquid chamber 300' for containing the liquid. The handle may include a honeycomb or rib feature or fiber reinforcement to strengthen and stiffen the handle. The handle may be made from a suitable rigid and strong material. For example, the material may be a plastic material such as polycarbonate.

[0442] When the handle is in the fully raised position, the second pivot protrusion 4502b'' is located at the top rear end of the second pivot hole 4502c''. The handle is held in that position by the angle of the second pivot hole 4502c''. When the handle is in the fully raised position, the second pivot protrusion 4502b'' attempts to move upward and the top wall of the second pivot hole 4502c'' interacts with the chassis of the device. To move the handle to the lowered position, the handle is moved horizontally and downward to release it from its fully raised position.

[0443] The required movement is facilitated by the shape and location of the depth reduced region 4502ef''. Alternatively, the depth reduced region may not be provided. As another alternative, the required movement can be facilitated by further raising portion 4502e'' relative to the adjacent portion of second pivot hole 4502c'' such that the upper and lower walls of portion 4502ef'' are disposed higher than the respective upper and lower walls of the adjacent portion of the second pivot hole. FIG. 114 illustrates such an arrangement. Rather than being stepped, portion 4502ef' forms a sloped surface between rear portion 4502ef'' and the adjacent portion of second pivot hole 4502c''. Although FIG. 114 does not show first pivot hole 4502c', it will be understood that a first pivot hole is provided.

[0444] In the illustrated configuration, the first pivot projection 4502b' and first pivot hole 4502c' are located toward the outer portion of the device, and the second pivot projection 4502b'' and second pivot hole 4502c'' are located toward the center of the device. In an alternative configuration, the sides can be reversed. By having the pivot projections and holes on both sides of the handle, the handle mechanism is less likely to jam adjacent the step 4502ef' during movement of the handle 4500, particularly at the intersection between the first pivot hole 4502c' and the second pivot hole 4502c''. Alternatively, the pivot projections 4502b', 4502b'' and pivot holes 4502c', 4502c'' can be located on one side of the device (either toward the center or the outside) with more rounded edges at the intersection between the first and second pivot holes to reduce the likelihood of jamming.

[0445] A surface of the handle 4500 abuts a surface of the handle holder 4498 throughout the handle's movement from its fully lowered position to its fully raised position to support the handle and prevent it from rocking. For example, the left side of the handle's body portion 4502f can abut the left side wall of the handle holder throughout its movement. Alternatively, the right side of the handle portions 4502e, 4502f can abut the right side wall of the handle holder throughout its movement. The abutting surfaces are load bearing and remain load bearing throughout the handle's movement.

[0446] The body portion 4502e and the arcuate portion 4502f are wide to handle the bending moments through the one-sided handle. The length of the base of the handle (extending between and beyond the pivot lugs 4502b', 4502b'') can be made as long as possible to reduce sway of the handle.

[0447] 101, when the handle 4500 is in the fully lowered position, the handle is flush with the top of the housing, i.e., a substantially continuous surface is formed around the top, front and rear of the upper chassis 3102' of the housing, including the handle 4500.

[0448] When a forward / downward force is applied to the handle 4500 to lower it from its fully-in position, the force is applied through the handle to the handle retainer 4498, not directly to the upper or lower chassis. The force is not supported by the pivot protrusions in the pivot holes.

[0449] In some configurations, the main housing and / or the handle 4500 may be provided with one or more magnets that hold the handle in the fully lowered and / or fully raised positions. For example, the handle may comprise a magnet and the housing may comprise a magnet or a conductive component that is attracted by the magnet, or vice versa. FIG. 103 shows a recess 4506' on the underside of the handle 4500 on or adjacent to the cross member 4506, and FIG. 104 shows a corresponding recess 4506' in the upper chassis portion 3102' of the housing. Each recess may comprise a suitable magnet or conductive component. The device may comprise one or more sensors, such as a Hall effect sensor, to determine whether the handle is in the lowered or raised position.

[0450] The magnets can provide a tactile and / or audible indication of engagement of the handle in the fully up and / or fully down positions. With magnets, the liquid supply tube to the chamber is less likely to be compressed and stop liquid flow (whereby the liquid supply tube can become trapped between the handle and the main housing, interrupting water flow and / or damaging the tube), as may be the case with a mechanical latch. Magnets also have the benefit of reduced wear compared to mechanical engagement mechanisms.

[0451] The single sided handle / lever 4500 allows the tubing connecting the fluid bag to the fluid chamber 300' to be routed through the space between the right side member 4504 of the handle / lever 4500 and the main housing when the handle / lever 4500 is in the raised position.

[0452] Instead of the pivot holes 4502c', 4502c'' being provided between the upper chassis portion of the housing and the handle retaining portion 4498, the pivot holes can instead be provided in the upper chassis portion 3102' or between the upper chassis portion 3102' and the lower chassis portion 3202' of the housing and the handle retaining portion 4498 is not used.

[0453] The top of the main housing includes a front angled surface 3124'. The surface 3124' is configured to receive the display and user interface module 14. As shown in Figs. 101, 102 and 104, the surface 3124' has elongated drainage channels 3124a', 3124a'' that extend in a front / rear direction of the device. The channels are provided on the outside of the respective upright walls 3124b', 3124b''. The walls 3124b', 3124b'' are connected at their rear ends by a rear lateral upright wall arrangement 3124c and at their front ends by a front lateral upright wall arrangement 3124d. The front lateral upright wall arrangement 3124d has an arcuate shape that corresponds to the curvature of the wall 3134'. The upright walls 3124b', 3124b'', 3124c, 3124d form a continuous wall and are configured so that any liquid that falls on the top of the device will drain towards the base of the chamber section 3108' and out the base of the device through the opening, rather than into areas of the device where the gas flow paths or electrical or electronic components are located. An adhesive can be provided between the display 14 and the face 3124' to minimize liquid ingress.

[0454] This configuration is also suitable for use with a fluid chamber 300' that is filled from a flexible fluid bag, as discussed with respect to the configuration of Figures 55-64.

[0455] The handle / lever 4500 can include one or more features, such as openings 502a, 504a as shown in FIG. 52, to guide the liquid tube from above into the liquid chamber. The tube is coupled to the liquid chamber. The liquid chamber can include a float valve that controls the flow of liquid from the tube into the liquid chamber.

[0456] The handle / lever 4500 is provided with one or more features to aid in the insertion, retention and / or removal of the liquid chamber 300' from the chamber compartment 3108'. Those features may be any one or more of the features described above in connection with the configurations.

[0457] By providing a handle / lever 4500 to aid in the insertion, retention and / or removal of the liquid chamber 300' in the chamber compartment, a user can easily ensure that the liquid chamber 300' is fully inserted into the chamber compartment 3108' while still being able to easily remove the liquid chamber from the chamber compartment when desired. This is particularly advantageous for users with limited mobility. The handle / lever also eliminates the use of a separate finger guard. The chamber compartment can have detents to aid in the insertion and / or retention of the liquid chamber in the chamber compartment, such as those described above in connection with other configurations. These details allow a user to easily ensure that the liquid chamber is fully inserted in the chamber compartment. A full or accurate insertion and / or retention may be necessary to ensure that an adequate seal is obtained and maintained between the liquid chamber and other components that form part of the gas flow path. The handle / lever surrounds a portion of the chamber compartment when the lever is in the closed or fully lowered position, so that when the handle / lever is in the fully raised position, a wide space is formed between the cross member of the handle / lever and the housing of the device, including a large opening in front of the chamber compartment and around the liquid chamber, thereby allowing the user's fingers to easily fit between the housing wall and the liquid chamber, thereby allowing easy insertion and removal of the liquid chamber into and from the chamber compartment.

[0458] The handle / lever 4500 can be configured such that when the handle / lever is in the raised position, the liquid chamber 300' can be inserted into the chamber compartment 3108'. When the handle / lever 4500 is in the lowered position, the handle / lever acts as a chamber guard to prevent removal of the liquid chamber 300' from the chamber compartment 3108' and to prevent a user from contacting the heater plate at the base of the liquid chamber.

[0459] Removal of the liquid chamber 300' from the chamber compartment 3108' is a two-step procedure. First, the user lifts the handle 4500 to the fully raised position. Second, the user removes the liquid chamber 300' from the chamber compartment 3108'. Each of these steps can be performed one-handed and the force required to perform each of them is low. This makes the device particularly suitable for home use by users with reduced physical condition.

[0460] Figures 118 and 119 show an alternative configuration of a removable retaining cover 4150a that holds the removable gas flow tube or elbow 1342 in place within the device. The device has the removable gas flow tube or elbow configuration of Figures 66-77, but could have any other suitable configuration such as, for example, the configuration of Figures 25-33.

[0461] 25-26b, with the removable retaining cover 4150a removed from the upper chassis 3102', the elbow 1342 can be removed from the elbow retaining part 2160. With the removable retaining cover 4150a connected to the upper chassis 3102', the elbow 1342 cannot be removed from the elbow retaining part 2160.

[0462] The retaining cover 4150a has an upper ceiling portion 4151 of a curved configuration and two substantially vertical sidewall portions 4152. The ceiling portion 4151 includes a recess 4153 that receives the patient exit port of the removable elbow 1342.

[0463] The retaining cover 4150a is configured so that it can be removed from the housing's upper chassis 3102' only by moving the elbow 1342 in a direction transverse to the removal and insertion direction. To that end, each side wall portion is provided with at least one guide recess 4156a at its base. In the illustrated form, two spaced apart guide recesses 4156a are provided at the base of each side wall portion 4152. The guide recesses are shown as being square or rectangular, but may be of any suitable shape. The front angled surface 3124' of the upper chassis 3102' is provided with a complementary guide protrusion 3125a sized and configured to engage with the guide recess 4156a.

[0464] Each sidewall portion of the removable retaining cover 4150a also has a guide protrusion 4156b disposed between the guide recesses 4156a. The front angled surface 3124' of the upper chassis 3102' includes a complementary guide recess 3125b that is sized and configured to engage with the guide protrusion 4156b. The guide protrusion 4156b of the removable retaining cover has an enlarged portion or barb 4156b' to engage under the lip of the guide recess 3125b when the removable retaining cover engages with the device housing to provide a positive engagement of those components.

[0465] Due to the configuration of the guide recesses and guide protrusions, the removable retaining cover 4150a can only be engaged with and separated from the upper chassis 3102' by substantially vertical movement of the removable retaining cover relative to the main chassis, transverse to the direction of insertion of the removable elbow 1342 into and removal from the elbow retaining portion 2160. Alternatively, the retaining cover can be configured to be engaged with and separated from the upper chassis by movement in a lateral direction, transverse to the direction of insertion of the removable elbow into and removal from the elbow retaining portion.

[0466] The upper portion of the gas inlet elbow 324 is provided with an engagement feature 324a that engages with a complementary engagement feature 4156c on the underside of the removable retaining cover 4150a to aid in locating the removable retaining cover in place on the upper chassis. In the illustrated form, the engagement feature 324a comprises a cross-shaped protrusion and the engagement feature 4156c comprises a complementary cross-shaped recess. However, any suitable shape may be used.

[0467] When the retaining cover 4150a is in place on the upper chassis 3102' and the elbow 1342 is in place on the elbow retainer 2160, attempting to pull the elbow 1342 forward will not work due to the engagement between the cover 4150 and the upper chassis 3102'. The electrical connection between the removable elbow 1342 and the elbow retainer 2160 and associated power receiver also provides some structural coupling between the removable elbow and the housing.

[0468] A flexible tether (not shown), such as a silicone cord, may connect the retention cover 4150a to the housing to minimize the chance of it being lost.

[0469] In an alternative configuration, the removable retaining cover can be arranged to slide over and off of the upper chassis portion in substantially the same plane as the removable gas flow tube or elbow 1342 is inserted into and removed from the elbow retaining portion 2160. Figures 120 and 121 show one alternative removable retaining cover 4150b having that configuration. The device can have the removable elbow 1342 configuration of Figures 66-77, but can have any other suitable configuration, such as, for example, the configuration of Figures 25-33.

[0470] The retaining cover 4150b has an upper ceiling portion 4151 of a curved configuration and two substantially vertical sidewall portions 4152. The ceiling portion 4151 includes a recess 4153 that receives the patient exit port of the removable elbow 1342.

[0471] In this configuration, the upper chassis 3102' includes an elongated guide recess 3125a in the form of a channel extending substantially in the forward and rearward directions of the device. The sidewall portion 4152 of the retaining cover 4150b has a complementary protrusion 4152a in the form of an elongated rail that projects outwardly from the sidewall portion 4152 and is sized and configured to slidably engage the guide recess 3125a. In another configuration, the sidewall portion 4152 can be provided with a recess and the upper chassis 3102' can be provided with a rail. Alternatively, the rail and recess can be provided in different locations. For example, the rail can be provided at the base of the forward angled surface 3124' and the sidewall portion 4152 can be provided with a recess, or vice versa. The handle / lever 4500 (not shown in FIGS. 120 and 121) is slightly tapered to allow the retaining cover 4150b to be inserted / removed when the handle / lever 4500 is in the raised position.

[0472] To insert the removable elbow 1342 and retaining cover 4150b into the housing, the elbow can be inserted through the opening 4153 in the retaining cover 4150b. The elbow 1342 and cover 4150b can then be slid into the main housing as a unit such that the elbow 1342 is received in the elbow retainer 2160 and the retaining cover 4150b engages with the guide rail 3125a'. This allows for easier assembly of the elbow and retaining cover to the housing with one degree of freedom of movement.

[0473] As discussed above, the PCB connector 1366 of the elbow 1342 can be oriented at a suitable non-parallel and non-coaxial angle relative to the longitudinal axis 1340A of the removable elbow manifold gas inlet port 1340. The guide rails 3125a' and PCB connector 1366 will be in substantially the same plane so that the retaining cover 4150b and elbow 1342 can be inserted together in a single movement. The guide rails 3125a' and PCB connector can act to guide the retaining cover and elbow into good engagement.

[0474] The difference between the insertion angle of the elbow 1342 and the retaining cover 4150b into the housing and the insertion angle of the chamber 300' into the chamber section 3108' means that removal of the chamber 300' from the chamber section 3108' does not remove the elbow 1342 or the retaining cover 4150b from the upper chassis.

[0475] The retaining cover 4150b and / or the removable elbow 1342 can have one or more features that help to maintain the removable elbow 1342 engaged with the retaining cover. The features can help to align the retaining cover 4150b and the elbow 1342 with one another so that they are precisely aligned for insertion into the device. The features can include, for example, protrusions and / or recesses, or an interference fit between the retaining cover 4150b and the elbow 1342.

[0476] The handle / lever 4500 may include features that prevent removal of the removable retaining covers 4150a, 4150b from the device housing when the handle is in the fully down position, but allow removal of the retaining covers 4150a, 4150b from the device housing when the handle is in the fully up position. Alternatively, in some configurations, the retaining covers 4150a, 4150b may be inserted or removed from the device housing when the handle 4500 is in any position.

[0477] The removable retaining covers 4150a, 4150b are shown as being substantially open at their front ends. The rear end of either retaining cover 4150a, 4150b can be positioned to provide a rearwardly facing exposed area spaced above the front of the device display. The open front end and / or exposed area can be used as an additional handle to aid in transporting the device 3010'.

[0478] 122-125 show an electrical connector 3276 provided in a bottom rear corner of the lower chassis 3202' of the main housing of the device 3010'. The electrical connector 3276 is positioned to provide mains or battery power to components of the device 3010', such as the electronic circuit board 272 and other electrical components.

[0479] The electrical connector 3276 includes a power receiving socket 3276a that is positioned to receive the plug of a power cord 3277. The power receiving socket 3276a and other components of the electrical connector are oriented within the main housing in a plane that is flush or parallel to the base of the device, i.e., such that the power cord can be inserted into the electrical connector 3276 with a horizontal movement.

[0480] The electrical connector 3276 includes a retaining portion 3276b that maintains the power cord 3277 in engagement with the socket 3276a. As shown in FIG. 125, the retaining portion 3276b includes a generally U-shaped body that receives the underside of the plug of the power cord 3277. The entry end 3276c of the retaining portion includes at least one vertical portion 3276c' that forms a protrusion to engage a recess of the plug of the power cord. In the illustrated form, the retaining portion includes a pair of vertical portions that are configured and sized to receive the neck portion 3277a of the plug of the power cord. When the plug of the power cord 3277 is inserted into the socket 3276a and the retaining portion 3276 engages the plug, the protrusion 3276c' prevents removal of the plug of the power cord from the socket when the power cord is pulled by engaging an enlarged surface adjacent the neck region 3277a of the power cord.

[0481] Fastener openings 3276d are provided at the base of the retainer 3276a to allow the retainer to be attached to the lower chassis portion 3202' by suitable fasteners, such as screws.

[0482] Mounting feet 3276e extend from the bottom of the holder to minimize the chance of slipping on the supporting surface.

[0483] The retaining portion 3276b includes at least one protruding wing 3276f, and in the illustrated form has two protruding wings that extend transversely to the direction of insertion of the plug of the power cord 3277 into the electrical connector 3276. The wings 3276f interact with complementary recesses in the lower chassis to prevent horizontal movement of the retaining portion 3276b.

[0484] To insert the power cord into the device, the plug of the power cord 3277 is inserted into the electrical connector 3276 in a horizontal insertion direction (direction 1 in FIG. 125). Once the power cord plug is inserted into the socket 3276a, the retainer 3276b is inserted vertically into the base of the lower chassis part 3202′ in insertion direction 2. The retainer wings 3276f engage into the recesses of the lower chassis and the retainer protrusions engage the power cord neck 3277a, thereby preventing the power cord from being removed from the electrical connector. The retainer is then fastened to the lower chassis using a fastener. To remove the power cord from the electrical connector, the process must be reversed.

[0485] A horizontally oriented electrical connector makes it easier to retain the power cord within the device and hide most of the power cord when it is plugged in. The horizontal orientation also places the wires closer to the utility power inlet, allowing the electrical connector to occupy less space within the device.

[0486] Rather than being in a horizontal orientation, the electrical connector 3276 features described can be used in an angled orientation that is non-horizontal and non-perpendicular to the main housing of the device. The angled orientation can reduce the chance of liquid ingress and the power cord can protrude less from the device, which is beneficial if the device is mounted on a pole. The power cord can have an elbow plug that is held in place by a retention mechanism similar to that described above.

[0487] In addition to the power cord retaining portion 3276b described above, the device 3010' may have a power harness guide 4276 shown in Figures 126-130. The power harness guide 4276 is preferably made from a plastic material and is used to position the wire or power harness that connects with the inner portion of the power receiving socket 3276a.

[0488] The power harness guide 4276 includes an inverted C-shaped base portion 4276a defining a recess 4276a for receiving a body of the power receiving socket 3276a. The base portion 4276a has a pair of inwardly directed flanges 4276a'' that are positioned directly beneath the power receiving socket 3276a when the power receiving socket 3276a is positioned within the base portion 4276a. A support arm 4276b extends from the base portion 4276a and has a generally L-shaped cross-section. The support arm 4276b has a generally straight portion 4276p' adjacent the base portion and a generally arcuate portion 4276p'' distal from the base portion. A number of holders 4276b' are provided along the support arm 4276b for receiving and holding wires or cables. Although two holders are shown, any suitable number of holders may be provided.

[0489] In the portion of the support arm 4276b remote from the base portion 4276a is a passage 4276b'' which allows a wire or cable to be brought out from the support arm 4276b and connected to a portion of the device to be powered, such as the PCB 272. The portion 4276tp of the arm adjacent the passage is tapered to provide a smooth surface for bringing the wire or cable out of the support arm.

[0490] A locator / coupler 4276d is located at the end of the support arm 4276b opposite the base portion for positioning and coupling the power harness guide 4276 to the PCB 272. The substantially straight portion 4276p' is oriented to be substantially parallel to the plane of the PCB 272 in use.

[0491] The power harness guide 4276 couples the wires or cables from the power receiving socket 3276a to the PCB 272, controls the position of the wires or cables, and allows the PCB 272 assembly to be inserted into the main housing in a single movement, allowing ease of assembly of the device.

[0492] 129 and 130 show details of the lower chassis 3202' in the area where the electrical connector 3276 is located. The lower chassis 3202' defines an opening 3800 through which the power cord plug 3277 can be inserted into the power receiving socket 3276a. The outer base portion is provided with a curved cavity 3802 to receive the power cord plug 3277. Lateral recesses 3804 are provided on either side of the cavity 3802 to receive the protruding wings 3276f of the retention portion 3276b. The recesses have threaded openings to receive fasteners.

[0493] As shown in FIG. 130, the lower chassis is provided with a vertical section 3806 having a channel 3808 on either end. The vertical section has a height slightly higher than the height of the power receiving socket 3276a. The channel is complementary to the front flange 3276a' of the power receiving socket 3276a so that the power receiving socket 3276a can be inserted into the vertical section 3806 from above. A base rib 3810 is provided to engage the rear of the front flange of the power receiving socket 3276a to prevent liquid from getting under the power receiving socket 3276a. Recesses 3812 are provided on either side of the rib 3810 so that liquid drips off the bottom of the front flange 3276a' instead of escaping under the flange into the main housing of the device. A channel 3814 is provided in the lower chassis between the curved cavity 3802 and the opening 3800 to prevent liquid from dripping from the cavity 3802 onto the power receiving socket 3276a.

[0494] 146 and 147 show an alternative retainer 3276b' for use in electrical connector 3276. Unless otherwise stated below, features and functions are as described above and like reference numerals refer to like parts. The shape of the retainer 3276b' has been modified to match the exterior shape of the lower chassis housing. The retainer 3276b' has two fastener openings 3276d, one on each side of the retainer, which provides a more symmetrical load through the retainer, although a single opening could alternatively be provided.

[0495] FIG. 145 illustrates an alternative configuration of the lower chassis 3202″ in the area where the electrical connector 3276 is located. Unless otherwise noted below, features and functions are as described above with reference to FIGS. 129 and 130, and like reference numerals indicate like parts. The cavity 3802 is shaped to receive the power cord plug and to receive the retaining portion 3276b′. A drain opening 3809 is provided through the base of the lower chassis 3202″, facing inwardly of the retaining portion 3276b′. The drain opening is located directly below the power cord plug when the power cord plug is inserted into the electrical connector. The drain opening 3809 is configured to allow liquid to drain from the lower chassis to the exterior of the housing if any liquid enters the lower chassis. The opening provides a break in the wall to help prevent water from tracing from inside the case to the outside or vice versa.

[0496] 131 and 132 show details of the communication connector mechanism 3274 at the top of the rear wall of the lower chassis 3202'. The connector mechanism 3274 is in electrical communication with the electronic circuit board 272.

[0497] In the illustrated form, the connector mechanism 3274 includes three USB ports. Although three ports are shown, any suitable number of ports may be used. The ports may be different types of communication ports.

[0498] The ports can be positioned at any suitable angle relative to the vertical axis of the device. The insertion angle of the plug in the connector can be between 0 degrees and 90 degrees relative to the vertical axis. The angle can be non-horizontal to reduce the possibility of the inserted plug being bumped, and can be non-horizontal and non-vertical to reduce the possibility of liquid ingress, i.e., the port can face at least partially downward such that the insertion angle of the plug into the connector is at least partially upward. Another benefit of an angled USB connection is that the PCB can be larger. In the illustrated configuration, the plug is inserted into the connector at an angle perpendicular to the PCB, and thus, when the configuration is angled, the PCB can better utilize the space within the housing. In one form, the port can be at an angle of about 5 degrees to about 30 degrees relative to the vertical axis. In one form, the port can be at an angle of about 10 degrees to about 20 degrees relative to the vertical axis. In one form, the angle is about 15 degrees relative to the vertical axis of the device such that the USB plug can be at a 90 degree angle to the PCB 272 upon insertion into the port. As shown in Fig. 132, the lower chassis portion can have a recess with walls 2374d angled relative to the vertical at the insertion angle of the plug into the connector to provide support to the inserted plug. A lip can be provided on each port to reduce the possibility of water entering the port.

[0499] 131, each connector of the connector mechanism 3274 preferably has chamfered lead-in ribs 3274b located above and below the entrance to the USB port 3274a to aid in the insertion of a USB plug 3274c into the port 3274a. The lead-in ribs 3274b may be located above and below and / or on either side of the USB port.

[0500] The upper outer horizontal edge 3274e of the recess of the communication connector mechanism 3274 may be provided with a sharp edge or liquid deflector to encourage liquid to drip off the sharp edge or liquid deflector rather than proceed into the recess, thereby minimizing the possibility of liquid seeping into the connector of the connector mechanism. For example, the sharp edge may be provided by an inwardly facing wall portion that extends toward or below the connector and intersects the rear wall portion 3222 of the lower chassis at an acute angle, e.g., a right angle. Alternatively, a liquid deflector may be provided by extending the rear wall portion 3222 downwardly beyond the connector, or by providing a louver or angled surface that overhangs the connector to deflect liquid away from the liquid.

[0501] As shown in Fig. 132, the device 3010 can have a battery 3222a that provides power to the device in the event of a power outage. The battery can be replaceable.

[0502] In the illustrated configuration, the battery is coupled to the outside of the rear wall of the device. This provides a large surface area for cooling the battery and reduces the amount of heat that enters the device from the battery. Additionally, this configuration reduces the impact on the battery of heat being generated by components of the device, especially when the battery is being charged. In an alternative configuration, the battery can be mounted inside the main housing.

[0503] The rear wall can include recesses and / or electrical connectors for connecting with the battery terminals, which are in electrical communication with PCB 272. A wall can be provided around the electrical connections to reduce liquid ingress in that area.

[0504] As shown in Figures 133 and 134, the device 3010' can have a mount 3700 for attaching the device to a stand or rod 3701. This allows the device to be used in an elevated position without taking up horizontal storage space on a bedside table.

[0505] The mount 3700 may be integrally formed with a portion of the main housing of the device. In the illustrated form, the mount 3700 is integrally formed with the left side wall 3210' of the lower chassis 3202' of the housing. The mount may alternatively be integrally formed with any of the other walls of the housing, such as the back wall, right side wall, or other walls.

[0506] The side of the device includes a recess 3702. A downwardly projecting tongue 3704 has an upper end integrally formed with the wall and is disposed within the recess. At the free lower end of the tongue 3704 is provided a protruding ledge 3706. The ledge projects outwardly a greater distance than the remainder of the tongue.

[0507] When the device is attached to a stand using the mount 3700, the ledge 3706 causes the device to tilt towards the stand, as shown diagrammatically in Fig. 134. Without the ledge, a user would perceive the device as tilting away from the stand (as the base of the device swings towards the stand) and could become concerned that the device is not being held securely. Thus, the ledge 3706 positions the device so that it tilts inward towards the stand, such that a user is less likely to become concerned about the connection between the stand and the device.

[0508] The mount 3700, with or without the ledge, will be sufficient to reliably hold the device with reasonable cushioning strength to hold the device through potential use cases (e.g., user leaning on the device, accidental bumping of the device), The ledge addresses visual appearance and the perception of the case by the user.

[0509] The ledge 3706 can be configured to tilt the unit device toward the stand 3701 by any suitable angle. For example, the angle θ1 can be between approximately 1° and 15°, or between approximately 1° and 10°, or between approximately 1° and 7°, or between approximately 1° and 5°, or between approximately 1° and 2°. Thus, θ2 is ≧0°.

[0510] The main housing of the device may be formed from any suitable material that allows for it to be integrally formed with the mount 3700. For example, the case may be formed from polycarbonate.

[0511] The integral mount 3700 has greater impact strength compared to additional threaded components. Strengthening of the mount 3700 may also be achieved, for example, by modifying the wall thickness, adding ribs, or modifying the internal geometry.

[0512] The device can be attached to a rod or stand by a C-clamp 3707 such as that shown in Figures 102-104 and 117. The C-clamp 3707 has a bowed head 3707a that is configured to snap fit onto a suitable rod or stand 3701. The side of the C-clamp includes an engagement area 3707b having two inwardly facing flanges configured to receive a tongue 3704. A ledge 3706 at the bottom of the tongue can engage with a ledge 3707c at the base of the engagement area 3707b. These features are shown in Figures 102 and 104.

[0513] To attach the device to a rod or stand 3701, the C-clamp 3707 is secured to the rod or stand at a suitable height by inserting the rod or stand into the arcuate recess 3707a. The device 3010' is then attached to the C-clamp 3707, and thereby the rod or stand 3701, by inserting the tongue 3704 into the engagement region 3707b of the C-clamp until the ledges 3706, 3707c engage. The C-clamp 3707 may have two engagement regions 3707b allowing two devices 3010' to be supported by one C-clamp. The device 3010' may be lifted vertically relative to the C-clamp 3707 to separate it from the C-clamp and the stand or rod.

[0514] Alternatively, the integral mount 3707 may be coupled to any complementary structure such that the device 3010' may be mounted to any suitable support, such as a wall, shelf or rod.

[0515] Figures 135 and 136 show an electrical connection mechanism 3722 that can be used in the device 3010'. The electrical connections are made between the PCB and the components of the device.

[0516] To make the electrical connections, a PCB 3722a is provided. A generally annular collar 3722b made from a suitable plastic material is then overmolded onto the PCB 3722a. As shown in FIG. 135, suitable openings 3722c are provided in the PCB to allow the collar material to flow through the PCB during the overmolding process, providing a robust connection between the collar 3722b and the PCB 3722a.

[0517] The collar 3722b and PCB 3722a assembly is then overmolded onto a portion of the main housing, for example onto a wall or floor of the main housing, to form a structural connection between and seal the PCB 3722a and the main housing of the device.

[0518] The collar can be formed from any suitable plastic material. In one example, the collar is formed from polycarbonate. The formed collar is substantially rigid, which means that the PCB 3722a needs to be snapped off the collar 3722b to be removed from the housing, as opposed to a soft grommet that could be pushed through by a user. The collar provides a better seal than a soft grommet that could be torn or damaged.

[0519] The PCB 3722 can be plasma treated to aid in the bond between the overmolded collar 3722b and the PCB 3722a, which can also aid in sealing against oxygen leakage into areas of the housing that house the electrical and / or electronic components.

[0520] The exposed portion of PCB 3722a is coupled to a suitable electrical connector.

[0521] 136 shows two exemplary locations for the PCB and collar assembly 3722, 3722' in the lower chassis 3202' of the device. Alternative locations are possible.

[0522] 148-150 show an alternative configuration gas inlet elbow 1324 for delivering gas from the outlet port 1452 of the motor and / or sensor module 1400 to the liquid chamber gas inlet port 306 of the liquid chamber of the flow therapy device. Unless otherwise noted below, the gas inlet elbow 1324 has the features and functions described above for elbow 324, with like numerals indicating like parts with the respective numerals increased by 1000.

[0523] The inlet elbow 1324 comprises a first body component 1324' and a second body component 1324''. The first and second body components are injection molded plastic components. The first body component comprises a tube that forms the manifold gas outlet port 1322 and the first interface portion 1324A.

[0524] The first interface portion 1324A is provided at the base of the manifold gas exit port 1322 and comprises a stepped configuration with an upper angled section 1324A1 and a lower angled section 1324A2 oriented at any suitable angle relative to the longitudinal axis 1322A of the gas exit port, for example, 30 degrees to 60 degrees, or 45 degrees, etc. The first interface section also includes a section 1324A3 extending forward from the base of the upper angled section, a section 1324A4 extending upward from the top of the lower angled section, and an angled transition section 1324A5 between sections 1324A3, 1324A4.

[0525] The second body component 1324'' comprises a second interface portion 1324A' at the gas flow inlet port 1325. The second interface portion comprises a stepped arrangement with an upper angled section 1324A1' and a lower angled section 1324A2' oriented at any suitable angle relative to the longitudinal axis 1322A of the gas outlet port, such as, for example, 30 degrees to 60 degrees, or 45 degrees. The second interface portion also includes a section 1324A3' extending forward from the base of the upper angled section, a section 1324A4' extending upward from the top of the lower angled section, and an angled transition section 1324A5' between sections 1324A3', 1324A4'. The first and second interface portions are complementary such that they can mate with one another. A suitable soft seal, such as an O-ring seal, is provided between the first and second interface portions. The first and second interface portions may be fastened together by clips or suitable fasteners 1324F, such as screws, for example.

[0526] The first interface portion 1324A and the second interface portion 1324A' include recesses 1324R that receive fasteners or locating protrusions on the main housing of the device to prevent rotation of the entry elbow 1324 relative to the housing and / or to prevent the elbow from being pulled out of the housing. The entry elbow 1324 can be configured to be attached to the upper and / or lower chassis of the housing. Alternatively, the entry elbow 1324 can be configured to be attached to the forward angled surface 124, 124', 3124' and / or the display carrier of the device.

[0527] A one-way valve 1326 is mounted inside the elbow 1324 at or adjacent to the interface between the manifold gas outlet port 1322 tube and the gas flow inlet port 1325 tube. In the illustrated form, the no-return valve 1326 comprises a plate movably mounted to the elbow to allow gas to flow in the direction from the inlet port 1325 to the outlet port 1322 but not the reverse direction. The no-return valve can be biased to a closed position in the absence of gas flow or can be configured to close under pressure if gas attempts to flow in the direction from the outlet port 1322 to the inlet port 1325. The valve is configured to prevent liquid from flowing backwards through the elbow into the housing.

[0528] Outlet port 1322 is provided with a recess 1322R to receive a T-seal or L-seal as described herein, and inlet port 1325 is provided with a recess 1325R to receive a suitable soft seal, such as an O-ring.

[0529] The smoother exterior shape of inlet elbow 1324 may allow it to be easier to clean than inlet elbow 324 .

[0530] The apparatus of Fig. 101 advantageously has tongue and groove features between components of the apparatus to reduce ingress of water and oxygen into the unit. As shown in Figs. 151-160, the apparatus advantageously has tongue and groove features between the top of the rear outer wall 3222' of the lower chassis 3202' and the bottom of the rear outer wall 3122' of the upper chassis 3102', between the top of the left outer wall 3210' of the lower chassis and the bottom of the left outer wall 3110' of the upper chassis, between the right outer wall 3216' of the lower chassis and the bottom of the right outer wall 3116 of the upper chassis, and between the top of the front lip 3242' of the lower chassis and the bottom of the front lip 3142 of the upper chassis.

[0531] The tongue and groove feature provides a substantially continuous liquid / gas flow resistant joint around the periphery of the upper and lower chassis parts 3102' and 3202'. In the illustrated form, the lower chassis 3202' is provided with grooves 3210G, 3222G, 3216G, 3242G, and the upper chassis 3102' is provided with complementary tongues 3110T, 3122T, 3116T, 3142T that are configured to be at least partially received in the respective grooves when the upper and lower chassis parts are assembled together. The continuous joint advantageously extends along at least a majority of the front, sides, and rear of the chassis parts, as shown, including around any corners between those faces. Advantageously, the tongue and groove feature is also provided around the periphery of the communication coupling portion 3274, as described below with reference to FIG.

[0532] 156 shows details of the tongue and groove arrangement between the top of the rear outer wall 3222' of the lower chassis 3202' and the bottom of the rear outer wall 3122' of the upper chassis 3102'. A groove 3222G is provided at the top of the rear outer wall 3222' and a tongue 3122T is provided at the bottom of the rear outer wall 3122' that is sized and configured to be received in the groove. The bottom of the rear outer wall 3122' of the upper chassis 3102' may also include a groove 3222G to receive a battery tongue 3222aT for mounting the battery to the housing.

[0533] The tops of the side walls 3210', 3216' of the lower chassis 3202' are also provided with grooves 3210G, 3216G, and the bottoms of the side walls 3110, 3116 of the upper chassis 3102' are provided with tongues 3110T, 3116T that are sized and configured to be received in the grooves.

[0534] As shown in FIG. 159, a groove 3242G is provided at the top of the front lip 3242' of the lower chassis, and a tongue 3142T is provided at the bottom of the front lip 3142' of the upper chassis that is sized and configured to be received in the groove 3242G.

[0535] A portion of the upper chassis 3102' in front of the chamber compartment floor portion 3136 (defining a recess 3138 to receive a heater mechanism) includes a downwardly extending laterally extending groove 3136G, and the bottom wall 3230 of the lower chassis 3202' includes an upwardly extending tongue 3230T sized and configured to be received in the groove 3136G.

[0536] The sides and rear of the heater mechanism receiving area also include a tongue and groove feature. As shown in FIGS. 151-154, the upper chassis 3102' includes a downwardly extending tongue 3136T that extends around the sides and rear of the heater mechanism receiving area. An end of the tongue 3136T meets an end of the groove 3136G. The lower chassis 3202' includes an upwardly facing groove 3230G that extends around the sides and rear of the heater mechanism receiving area. An end of the groove 3230G meets an end of the tongue 3230T. Thus, there is a continuous tongue and groove feature around substantially the entire periphery of the chamber compartment.

[0537] 158 shows an alternative configuration of the tongue and groove mechanism between the upper and lower chassis portions at the rear of the heater mechanism receiving area, where the lower chassis portion includes an upwardly extending tongue 3230T' and the upper chassis portion includes a downwardly facing groove 3134G at the base of the wall 3134, the tongue 3230T' sized and configured to be received in the groove 3134G.

[0538] In one configuration, the upper and lower chassis portions can have downwardly projecting tongues and upwardly projecting grooves at the rear of the housing, and this configuration can be inverted at the front of the housing, for example, approximately from the area where the handle mechanism joins the upper chassis in FIG. 117.

[0539] 151, 152 and 160 show details of the tongue and groove mechanism between the communication coupling portion 3274 and the upper and lower chassis portions. The bottom of the rear outer wall portion 3122 of the upper chassis is provided with a downwardly extending tongue 3122T, and the top of the outer wall of the communication coupling portion 3274 is provided with an upwardly facing groove 3274G sized and configured to receive the tongue 3122T. The top of the rear outer wall portion 3222 of the lower chassis is provided with an upwardly extending tongue 3222T, and the bottom of the outer wall of the communication coupling portion 3274 is provided with a downwardly facing groove 3274G' sized and configured to receive the tongue 3222T. Two faces (e.g., T2B and G2B) are configured to abut to seal the upper and lower chassis together. Alternatively or additionally, other faces can be configured to abut. The inner wall of the groove 3274G' is advantageously shorter than the outer wall of the groove, allowing the communicative coupling portion to snap-fit ​​in place on the lower chassis. The tongue and groove feature preferably extends around the entire periphery of the communicative coupling portion 3274. For example, the lower chassis portion can include a tongue 3222T that is sized and configured to be received in a groove 3274G' that extends along the base to the side of the communicative coupling portion 3274.

[0540] As shown in FIG. 157, a tongue and groove mechanism is also provided between the outer extension tube or conduit 3133 of the upper chassis 3102′ and the gas flow tube 3264 of the lower chassis 3202′. An outer wall portion of the gas flow tube 3264 includes an upwardly facing annular groove 3264G spaced from the upper end of the gas flow tube 3264 and disposed adjacent the ceiling 3262 of the motor and / or sensor subassembly recess 3250. A bottom edge of the upper chassis extension tube 3133 includes a downwardly extending annular tongue 3133T sized and configured to be received in the groove 3264G. It can be seen from FIG. 157 that the gas flow tube 3264 extends through the extension tube 3133 at least to the upper edge of the extension tube, and in the illustrated form, beyond the upper edge of the extension tube and beyond the angled surface 3124′.

[0541] Because the gas flow path tube 3264 extends through the extension tube 3133 and around the outside of the inlet elbow 324, 1324 and is formed as a single continuous, unbroken, integral piece including the walls 3256 and ceiling 3262 that define the recess 3250, in the event of a leak, gas will follow the path of least resistance, thereby collecting outside the leak area and exiting to the surrounding environment via the outside of the inlet elbow 324, 1324. Gas is highly unlikely to flow into the housing and through a tortuous path to the electronics of the device.

[0542] A tongue and groove feature is also provided between an upper edge of the filter housing 3354 of the lower chassis 3202' and a corresponding opening 3354A of the upper chassis 3102'. The tongue and groove feature can extend around the entire periphery of the filter housing 3354 and opening 3354A to prevent gas from leaking from the interior of the filter housing to the exterior of the filter housing and into the main housing of the device. One of the filter housing 3354 and the surrounding walls of the opening 3354A has a groove, and the other of the filter housing and the surrounding walls of the opening has a tongue sized and configured to be received in the groove.

[0543] Any one or more of the rabbet features can have the configuration shown in FIG. 161, where the groove G1 has a base G1B and a substantially parallel sidewall G1SW, and the rabbet T1 has a tip or edge T1E and a substantially parallel sidewall T1SW. Alternatively or additionally, one or more of the rabbet features can have the configuration shown in FIG. 162, where the groove G2 can have a base G2B, a first sidewall G2SW1 extending perpendicularly from the base, and a second sidewall G2SW2 initially extending perpendicularly from the base and later terminating in a chamfer G2C or angled surface. The chamfer helps to confine any liquid particles between G2C / G2SW1 and T2SW. Alternatively, the angled surface or chamfer G2C can extend all the way to the base G2B. The angled or chamfered surface G2C, together with the respective sidewall of the rabbet T2, is configured to minimize or prevent liquid from escaping over the angled or chamfered surface. The groove G2 is typically oriented so that the chamfered surface G2C is located on the side of the groove that corresponds to the portion of the device from which liquid should be directed away. For example, the grooves 3210G, 3216G in at least the sidewalls 3210', 3216' of the lower chassis 3202' can have chamfered surfaces G2C on their inner edges to prevent liquid from escaping to the inside of the sidewall. The non-chamfered outer wall G2SW1 of the groove allows any moisture that enters the rabbet to escape in an outward direction towards the exterior of the device.

[0544] Alternatively or additionally, an enlarged space may be provided between at least one surface of the tongues T1, T2 and the respective surface of the grooves G1, G2 to reduce or prevent escape.

[0545] The tongues T1, T2 and grooves G1, G2 may have the orientation shown in FIGS.

[0546] The configurations and orientations described and illustrated are merely examples, and any suitable combination of tongue and groove features and / or orientations of tongue and groove features may be used in the device.

[0547] The main housing of the device comprises a small number of parts. The upper chassis 3102', including the front angled surface 3124' and the curved wall portion 3134 surrounding most of the chamber compartment, is integrally formed (e.g., by injection molding) as a single piece, which seals the chamber compartment from the interior of the upper chassis portion behind the wall portion 3134, reducing the possibility of liquid / gas ingress from the chamber compartment into the area behind the wall portion 3134. Similarly, the lower chassis 3202', including the walls and ceiling defining the recess 3250 that receives the motor and / or sensor module, and the gas flow tube 3264, is integrally formed (e.g., by injection molding) as a continuous, unbroken single piece, which seals the interior of the recess 3250 from the upper area of ​​the lower chassis, reducing the possibility of gas ingress from the recess 3250 into the upper area of ​​the lower chassis and into the portion of the main housing formed between the upper and lower chassis.

[0548] In the illustrated form, the upper chassis 3102' and the lower chassis 3202' can be fastened together using a small number of fasteners. The fasteners can be screws or any other suitable fasteners. The fasteners simply act to bond the upper and lower chassis portions together. Due to the tongue and groove seal feature between the upper and lower chassis portions, the fasteners do not need to provide continuous compression between the upper and lower chassis portions to provide a proper seal, as would be necessary if a soft seal were used. In an alternative configuration, the upper and lower chassis portions can be bonded together using clips or some other suitable mechanism.

[0549] 163 and 164 show a modified battery 3222a coupled to the outside of the rear wall of the device, as described above with reference to FIG. 156. The battery provides functionality to the device by providing power to the device. The battery shown in FIG. 163 and 164 is larger and has a higher capacity than the battery shown in FIG. 132. Additionally, this battery 3222a differs in that it has a retention feature at the base of the battery that is configured to overlap a portion of the motor and / or sensor module 400, 1400 to maintain the motor and / or sensor module 400, 1400 in place in the housing recess 3250.

[0550] In the illustrated form, the battery retention feature comprises a base flange 3222a' that extends under and contacts a portion of the bottom wall 3230 of the lower chassis 3202'. The base flange 3222a' is also sized and configured to extend under and contact a portion of the base 1403 of the motor and / or sensor module 1400. When the motor and / or sensor module 1400 is placed in the recess 3250 and the battery 3222a is secured to the device housing, the overlap between the base flange 3222a' and the motor and / or sensor module prevents removal of the motor and / or sensor module from the recess.

[0551] To assemble the battery 3222a to the housing, the motor and / or sensor module 1400 is inserted into the recess 3250. Fasteners can be inserted through the openings 1403E in the tabs of the base 1403 of the motor and / or sensor module to fasten the module to the lower chassis 3202'. As described above with reference to FIG. 156, the top end of the battery 3222a is coupled to the lower chassis part by inserting the tongue 3222aT into the groove 3222G'. The bottom of the battery can then be tilted forward so that the base flange 3222a' contacts and overlaps the base 1403 of the motor and / or sensor module. Fasteners are then inserted through the openings 3222a'' in the ba...

Claims

1. 1. An apparatus for delivering a flow of gas, comprising: a housing having a recess; an outlet port for gas flow; Equipped with The apparatus, wherein the recess is defined by at least one wall that is substantially continuous, gas impermeable and unbroken other than a gas flow path from the recess in the housing to the outlet port.

2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the recess comprises a recess opening in an outer wall of the housing, the recess extending into the housing from the recess opening.

3. The apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the recess opening is in a bottom of the housing.

4. The apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the recess opening is in a top portion of the housing.

5. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising a motor and / or a sensor module arranged in the recess.

6. The apparatus of claim 5 , wherein the motor and / or sensor module comprises a base, a sensing layer and a cover layer assembled together to form a subassembly housing.

7. The apparatus of claim 6 , wherein the subassembly housing has a shape complementary to a shape of the recess.

8. 8. The apparatus of claim 6 or 7, wherein the motor and / or sensor module comprises a motor having an impeller, the motor being arranged to deliver gas to the outlet port of the housing.

9. The apparatus of claim 8 , wherein the motor is disposed in the base of the subassembly.

10. An apparatus according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein the base is configured to close the recess opening when the subassembly is disposed in the recess.

11. An apparatus according to any one of claims 6 to 10, wherein the subassembly is maintained in place in the recess by fasteners, clips or quick release mechanisms.

12. An apparatus according to any one of claims 6 to 11, wherein the sensing layer comprises a gas flow path having one or more sensors.

13. The apparatus of claim 12 , wherein the gas flow passage is positioned to deliver gas to the outlet port of the housing.

14. An apparatus according to any one of claims 5 to 13, wherein the motor and / or sensor module comprises a gas flow path having a serpentine arrangement.

15. 15. Apparatus according to any one of claims 5 to 14, wherein the housing comprises electrical and / or electronic components and the recess is configured to isolate the electrical and / or electronic components from gas flow through the motor and / or sensor module or from the motor and / or sensor module.

16. An apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 5 to 15, wherein the gas flow path is provided by a gas flow tube, the gas flow tube extending through an outer tube which is integrally formed with part of the housing.

17. An apparatus according to any one of claims 5 to 16, wherein the motor and / or sensor module is removable from the recess.

18. An apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein a gas which is or comprises oxygen flows through the gas flow passage and / or outlet port.

19. 20. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the gas is isolated from electrical and / or electronic components within the housing.

20. 1. An apparatus for delivering a flow of gas, comprising: A housing and a lever, only one side of the lever being movably connected to the housing. An apparatus comprising:

21. 21. The apparatus of claim 20, comprising a heater and a chamber compartment that receives a liquid chamber.

22. 22. The device of claim 21, wherein a fluid tube can be routed through a space between the lever and the housing when the lever is in a raised position.

23. 23. Apparatus according to claim 21 or 22, wherein the one side of the lever is pivotally connected to the housing.

24. Apparatus according to any one of claims 21 to 23, wherein the lever surrounds a portion of the chamber compartment when the lever is in a closed position.

25. An apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 20 to 24, wherein the one side of the lever is pivotally and translatably connected to the housing.

26. 26. The apparatus of claim 25, comprising a lever retainer secured to a portion of the housing, the lever retainer and the portion of the housing providing pivotal and translational movement of the lever relative to the housing.

27. 27. Apparatus according to claim 25 or 26, wherein the lever is configured to move relative to the housing with a varying radius of movement.

28. 28. An apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 25 to 27, wherein the lever comprises a first pivot configured to move along a first pivot hole, and the lever comprises a second pivot configured to move along a second pivot hole.

29. 29. The device of claim 28, wherein the first pivot hole is oriented substantially up-down relative to the housing, and / or the first pivot hole is substantially straight, and / or the second pivot hole is oriented substantially in a front-to-back direction of the device, and / or the second pivot hole is arcuate.

30. 30. Apparatus according to claim 28 or 29, comprising an engagement mechanism for retaining the second pivot at or adjacent a rear end of the second pivot hole so as to retain the lever in a raised position.

31. Apparatus according to any one of claims 20 to 30, wherein the lever comprises an arm on said one side of the lever, the arm being pivotally or pivotally and translatably connected to the housing.

32. 32. The apparatus of claim 31 , wherein the lever comprises a cross member connected to the arm.

33. 33. Apparatus according to claim 31 or 32, wherein when the lever is in a raised position there is a space between the housing and the cross member on the opposite side of the lever from the arm.

34. An apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 20 to 33, wherein the distal end of the lever is arranged to be positioned generally above the centre of mass of the apparatus when the lever is in a fully raised position.

35. An apparatus according to any one of claims 20 to 34, wherein the lever comprises one or more features for guiding a liquid tube to a liquid chamber.

36. A device according to claim 21 or any one of claims 22 to 35 when dependent on claim 21, wherein the lever is configured to assist insertion and / or retention and / or removal of the liquid chamber in the chamber compartment and / or from the chamber compartment.

37. An apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 20 to 36, wherein the lever is gas injection moulded and / or the lever is provided with an external seal.

38. An apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 20 to 37, wherein one face of the lever abuts one face of the housing throughout the movement of the lever from its fully lowered position to its fully raised position.

39. Apparatus according to any one of claims 20 to 38, wherein the lever and / or housing comprises one or more magnets to hold the lever in a fully lowered and / or fully raised position.

40. 1. An apparatus for delivering a flow of gas, comprising: a housing having a recess in an outer wall; a connector mechanism disposed within the recess, the connector mechanism comprising one or more ports, the ports being at a non-parallel and non-perpendicular angle between 0 degrees and 90 degrees relative to a vertical axis; An apparatus comprising:

41. 41. The apparatus of claim 40, wherein the port is at an angle of about 5 degrees to about 30 degrees relative to the vertical axis, or the port is at an angle of about 10 degrees to about 20 degrees relative to the vertical axis, or the port is at an angle of about 15 degrees relative to the vertical axis.

42. 42. Apparatus according to claim 40 or 41, wherein the walls of the recess are angled relative to the vertical at an insertion angle of the port.

43. Apparatus according to any one of claims 40 to 42, wherein the one or more ports comprise a communications port.

44. 44. The apparatus of claim 43, wherein the one or more ports include a USB port.

45. Apparatus according to any one of claims 40 to 44, wherein the or each port is provided with a lip.

46. An apparatus according to any one of claims 40 to 45, comprising a sharp edge or liquid deflector along an upper edge of the recess.

47. 1. An apparatus for delivering a flow of gas, comprising: a housing having an upper chassis and a lower chassis; a gas flow path defined within the housing between the upper chassis and the lower chassis; electrical components within the housing; a continuous uninterrupted wall within the housing adapted to pneumatically isolate the electrical components from the gas flow path; An apparatus comprising:

48. 48. The apparatus of claim 47, wherein a gas that is or comprises oxygen flows through the gas flow path.

49. 49. The apparatus of claim 48, wherein the gas is isolated from the electrical components.

50. 50. An apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 47 to 49, comprising a motor having an impeller to deliver gas through the gas flow path, the motor being pneumatically isolated from the electrical components.

51. 51. The apparatus of claim 50, wherein the wall alone or in combination with one or more additional continuous unbroken walls defines a recess that is pneumatically isolated from the electrical component, and the motor is disposed within the recess.

52. 52. The apparatus of claim 51, wherein the motor is removable from the recess.

53. 53. An apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 50 to 52, wherein the pressure is relatively low upstream of the motor impeller and relatively high downstream of the motor impeller, the motor being provided with electrical connections in the lower pressure region, the electrical connections being arranged upstream of the motor impeller.

54. An apparatus according to any one of claims 50 to 53, wherein the electrical component comprises a printed circuit board.

Images