Liquid chamber for respiration auxiliary device

Abstract

To provide a connection port configuration of a humidifier liquid chamber manifold.SOLUTION: A humidifier liquid chamber or a humidifier liquid chamber manifold comprises first and second base unit connection ports 157, 159 for connection to a respiration auxiliary device base unit. The base unit connection ports define respective axes A1, A2. The base unit connection ports are substantially parallel to each other, and are separated by a port separation distance PSD between axes. At least one of the base unit connection ports 157, 159 has a seal depth SD which is defined by a part of the port which is configured to overlap a complementary chamber connection port of the base unit. A ratio of the seal depth SD to the port separation distance PSD exceeds approximately 0.25.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 14

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a fluid chamber for a respiratory assistance device. [Background technology]

[0002] Respiratory support devices are used to deliver a flow of gas to a user or patient in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, medical facilities, home care, or in the home. Respiratory support devices come in a variety of forms, such as stand-alone humidification devices, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices, or high-flow therapy devices.

[0003] Standalone humidification devices can deliver heated and humidified gases for a variety of medical procedures, including respiratory therapy, laparoscopy, and others. These devices can be configured to control temperature and / or humidity. The devices can also include medical circuits that include various components that can be used to transport heated and / or humidified gases to and from a patient. For example, in some breathing circuits, gases inhaled by a patient are delivered from a heater-humidifier through an inspiratory tube or conduit. As another example, a tube can deliver humidified gas (typically CO2) to the abdominal cavity in an insufflation circuit. This can help prevent the patient's internal organs from drying out, or "drying out," thereby reducing the time required for post-operative recovery. The heater wires extend inside at least a portion of the tubing that forms the circuit to prevent or at least reduce the likelihood of significant condensation forming.

[0004] A freestanding humidifier device typically includes a heater base and a humidifier liquid chamber. The heater base may include a heater plate. The liquid chamber may be configured to hold a volume of liquid, such as water. The heater plate may be configured to heat the volume of liquid held in the liquid chamber to generate vapor.

[0005] The liquid chamber can be removable from the heater base, which makes it easier to sterilize or dispose of the liquid chamber, or to refill the chamber with liquid. The body of the liquid chamber can be formed from a non-conductive glass or plastic material, although the liquid chamber can also include conductive components. For example, the liquid chamber can include a highly thermally conductive base (e.g., an aluminum base) in contact with or associated with a heating plate on the heater base.

[0006] The heater base may also include an electronic controller, such as a master controller, which, in response to user input of humidity or temperature values ​​via a user interface and other inputs, determines when (or to what extent) to energize the heating plate to heat the liquid in the liquid chamber.

[0007] The self-contained humidification device may include a gas supply that delivers gas to the liquid chamber. In some configurations, the gas supply may include a ventilator, blower, or any other suitable source of pressurized gas suitable for use in respiratory or medical procedures.

[0008] Standalone humidification devices may be used in respiratory therapy, positive pressure devices, non-invasive ventilation, surgical procedures including but not limited to laparoscopic surgery, and others. Desirably, the humidification device may be adapted to provide moisture or steam to a supply of gases. The humidification device may be used in continuous, variable, or bi-level PAP systems or other forms of respiratory therapy. In some configurations, the humidification device may be incorporated into systems providing any such type of therapy.

[0009] An exemplary free-standing humidification device is described in WO 2015 / 038013.

[0010] A CPAP device is a gas supply and, optionally, gas humidification device operable to provide respiratory assistance to a patient or user who requires a supply of gas (humidified or otherwise) at positive pressure for the treatment of illnesses including Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), snoring, or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), and others. CPAP devices typically include a humidifier liquid chamber, forming a combined assisted breathing unit and humidifier.

[0011] CPAP devices, when used in conjunction with a humidifier, typically have a structure in which gas at the required pressure is delivered from an assisted breathing unit or blower unit to a liquid chamber downstream of the blower. As the gas passes through the liquid chamber, it becomes saturated with liquid vapor (e.g., water vapor). A flexible tubular gas conduit delivers the gas from the humidification chamber downstream to the user or patient.

[0012] An exemplary CPAP device is described in WO 2011 / 056080.

[0013] High flow devices may be used to deliver high flows of gas or high flow therapy to patients to assist breathing and / or treat respiratory disorders including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). High flow devices include a gas supply and typically include a humidification device.

[0014] A respiratory aid device typically has one or more attachments, such as a breathing conduit, and a patient interface, such as a cannula or mask, for delivering gas to the patient. The conduit allows the gas to be delivered from the housing of the respiratory aid device to the patient. For example, the device may be placed on a floor or other support surface and the patient may be on a bed. The respiratory aid device may have a recess for receiving a humidifier liquid chamber. The liquid chamber receives liquid, for example, from a flexible liquid bag that delivers liquid to the humidifier liquid chamber via one or more tubes. Alternatively, the liquid chamber can be removed and refilled as required. The recess houses a heating plate for heating the liquid chamber, humidifying the gas passing through the liquid chamber. The humidified gas is then delivered to the patient. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0015] In accordance with at least one particular feature, aspect, and advantage of the embodiments disclosed herein, a humidifier liquid chamber or humidifier liquid chamber manifold is disclosed, the humidifier liquid chamber or humidifier liquid chamber manifold comprising: first and second base unit connection ports for connecting to a respiratory assistance apparatus base unit, the first and second base unit connection ports defining respective axes; Including, wherein the base unit connection ports are substantially parallel to one another and separated by a port separation distance between the axes; At least one of the base unit connection ports has a seal depth defined by a portion of the port configured to overlap a complementary chamber connection port of the base unit, the ratio of the seal depth to the port separation distance being greater than about 0.25.

[0016] In some configurations, the ratio of seal depth to port separation distance is greater than about 0.25, and up to about 0.7.

[0017] In some configurations, the ratio of seal depth to port separation distance is between about 0.3 and about 0.7.

[0018] In some configurations, the ratio of seal depth to port separation distance is about 0.475.

[0019] In some configurations, the seal depth is greater than about 10 mm.

[0020] In some configurations, the seal depth is greater than about 10 mm, up to about 16 mm.

[0021] In some configurations, the seal depth is greater than about 12 mm.

[0022] In some configurations, the seal depth is greater than about 12 mm, up to about 16 mm.

[0023] In some configurations, at least one of the base unit connection ports is configured to form a seal with at least two seals on a complementary chamber connection port.

[0024] In some configurations, the base unit connection ports each have an outer surface, the outer surfaces being substantially planar and substantially perpendicular to the axis.

[0025] In some configurations, the humidifier liquid chamber manifold includes first and second manifold-to-chamber connection ports for connecting to the humidifier liquid chamber, the first manifold-to-chamber connection port in fluid communication with the first base unit connection port and the second manifold-to-chamber connection port in fluid communication with the second base unit connection port.

[0026] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber manifold, a first conduit extends between and fluidly connects a first manifold-to-chamber connection port and a first base unit connection port, and a second conduit extends between and fluidly connects a second manifold-to-chamber connection port and a second base unit connection port.

[0027] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber manifold, the axes of the first and second base unit connection ports are configured to be oriented substantially horizontally when the humidifier liquid chamber manifold is in use.

[0028] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber manifold, the axes of the first and second manifold-to-chamber connection ports are configured to be substantially vertically oriented when the humidifier liquid chamber manifold is in use.

[0029] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber manifold, the humidifier liquid chamber manifold includes an auxiliary port that communicates with the interior of the humidifier liquid chamber manifold.

[0030] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber manifold, the humidifier liquid chamber manifold includes a conduit clip that engages a liquid conduit for delivering liquid to the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0031] In some configurations, the humidifier liquid chamber manifold is integrally formed as part of the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0032] In some configurations, the port separation distance is between about 35 mm and about 45 mm.

[0033] In some configurations, the port separation distance is between about 38 mm and about 42 mm.

[0034] In some configurations, the port separation is about 40 mm ± 0.6 mm.

[0035] In some configurations, the humidifier liquid chamber includes flow tubes extending from the first and second base unit connection ports into the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0036] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, each flow tube includes an opening at or adjacent to the end of the flow tube distal from the respective base unit connection port, the opening configured to direct flow and spaced from the wall of the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0037] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, the opening of each flow tube faces the roof of the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0038] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, the humidifier liquid chamber includes a baffle inside the humidifier liquid chamber and between the openings of the flow tube.

[0039] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, the baffle extends downwardly from the roof of the humidifier liquid chamber and terminates above the maximum liquid fill level of the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0040] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, the distance between the lower edge of the baffle and the maximum liquid fill level is between about 5 mm and about 15 mm.

[0041] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, the baffle extends downwardly from the roof of the humidifier liquid chamber and terminates at or below the maximum liquid fill level of the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0042] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, the roof of the humidifier liquid chamber is sloped so that it is substantially non-horizontal in use.

[0043] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, at least one of the roof, baffle, and wall of the humidifier liquid chamber is configured to direct gas exiting the opening of the flow tube associated with the first base unit connection port toward and over the surface of the liquid in the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0044] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, the humidifier liquid chamber is substantially free of dead space within the humidifier liquid chamber when in use.

[0045] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, each flow tube includes a liquid exhaust aperture at or adjacent the end of the flow tube distal from the respective base unit connection port.

[0046] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, each flow tube includes a gas exit aperture in the upper surface of the flow tube.

[0047] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, the humidifier liquid chamber includes a step in the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0048] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, the base of the step is located at least partially below the first and second base unit connection ports.

[0049] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, the baffle extends from the rear of the humidifier liquid chamber to a substantially vertical face of the step.

[0050] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, the baffle extends from the rear of the humidifier liquid chamber toward the substantially vertical face of the step and terminates near the central axis of the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0051] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, the humidifier liquid chamber has a substantially cylindrical shape.

[0052] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, the humidifier liquid chamber tapers from the base of the humidifier liquid chamber to the top of the humidifier liquid chamber toward the center of the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0053] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, the humidifier liquid chamber includes a thermally conductive base.

[0054] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, the base of the humidifier liquid chamber is removable from the body of the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0055] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, the humidifier liquid chamber includes one or more base removal features that assist in removing the base of the humidifier liquid chamber from the body of the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0056] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, one or more base removal features are disposed between a lower flange of the body of the humidifier liquid chamber and an outwardly extending flange of the base of the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0057] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, the one or more base removal features include a slot.

[0058] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, the humidifier liquid chamber includes a shoulder between the first and second base unit connection ports.

[0059] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, the shoulder extends beyond an outer surface of the first and second base unit connection ports.

[0060] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, one of the base unit connection ports is an inlet port and the other of the base unit connection ports is an outlet port.

[0061] Further, in accordance with at least one particular feature, aspect, and advantage of the embodiments disclosed herein, a humidifier liquid chamber or a humidifier liquid chamber manifold is disclosed, the humidifier liquid chamber or the humidifier liquid chamber manifold comprising: first and second base unit connection ports for connecting to a respiratory assistance device base unit; Including, the base unit connection ports are substantially parallel to one another; Each of the base unit connection ports includes at least two sealing portions configured to form at least two seals with portions of the respiratory assistance apparatus base unit when connected to the respiratory assistance apparatus base unit.

[0062] In some configurations, the two seal portions are separated by a distance of about 5 mm to about 7 mm.

[0063] In some configurations, the two seal portions are separated by a distance of about 5.5 mm to about 6.5 mm.

[0064] In some configurations, each base unit connection port includes an internal taper that narrows from an end of the base unit connection port to an opposite end of the base unit connection port.

[0065] In some configurations, the inner diameter of the first seal portion of the seal portion proximal to the end of the base unit connection port is between about 0 mm and about 0.6 mm larger than the inner diameter of the second seal portion of the seal portion distal to the end of the base unit connection port.

[0066] In some configurations, the inner diameter of the first seal portion of the seal portion is less than about 25.6 mm.

[0067] In some configurations, the inner diameter of the second seal portion of the seal portion is less than about 25.4 mm.

[0068] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, each base unit connection port includes a central axis that is at a height of at least about 85 mm from the lower surface of the body of the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0069] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, the central axis of the base unit connection port is at a height of at least about 88 mm from the underside of the body of the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0070] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, the lower surface is defined by an upper edge of a lower flange of the body of the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0071] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, a lower flange is configured to engage with one or more retaining features in the respiratory assistance apparatus base unit to assist in retaining the humidifier liquid chamber in engagement with the respiratory assistance apparatus base unit.

[0072] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber or humidifier liquid chamber manifold, each base unit connection port is cylindrical.

[0073] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber or humidifier liquid chamber manifold, each base unit connection port is configured to receive a complementary port on the respiratory assistance apparatus base unit.

[0074] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, the humidifier liquid chamber includes flow tubes extending from the first and second base unit connection ports into the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0075] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, the liquid chamber includes a baffle inside the humidifier liquid chamber and between the openings of the flow tube.

[0076] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, a baffle extends downwardly from the roof of the humidifier liquid chamber and terminates above the maximum liquid fill level of the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0077] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, a baffle extends downwardly from the roof of the humidifier liquid chamber and terminates at or below the maximum liquid fill level of the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0078] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, the roof of the humidifier liquid chamber is sloped so that it is substantially non-horizontal in use.

[0079] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, at least one of the roof, baffle, and wall of the humidifier liquid chamber is configured to direct gas exiting the opening of the flow tube associated with the first base unit connection port toward and over the surface of the liquid in the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0080] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, the humidifier liquid chamber includes a step in the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0081] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, the base of the step is located at least partially below the first and second base unit connection ports.

[0082] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, the baffle extends from the rear of the humidifier liquid chamber toward the substantially vertical face of the step and terminates near the central axis of the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0083] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, the distance between the leading edge of the baffle and the substantially vertical face of the step is at least about 20 mm.

[0084] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber or humidifier liquid chamber manifold, the first and second base unit connection ports define respective axes, and the first and second base unit connection ports are separated by a port separation distance between the axes, the port separation distance being between about 35 mm and about 45 mm.

[0085] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber or humidifier liquid chamber manifold, the port separation distance is between about 38 mm and about 42 mm.

[0086] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber or humidifier liquid chamber manifold, the port separation distance is about 40 mm ± 0.6 mm.

[0087] Further, in accordance with at least one particular feature, aspect, and advantage of the embodiments disclosed herein, a humidifier liquid chamber is disclosed, the humidifier liquid chamber comprising: an inlet port and an outlet port defining respective axes; Including, the inlet port and the outlet port are substantially parallel to one another and configured to be oriented substantially horizontally when the humidifier liquid chamber is in use, the inlet port and the outlet port being separated by a port separation distance between the axes; At least one of the inlet port and the outlet port has a seal depth defined by a portion of the port configured to overlap a complementary chamber connection port of the respiratory assistance device base unit, and the ratio of the seal depth to the port separation distance is greater than about 0.25 and is up to about 0.7.

[0088] In some configurations, the ratio of seal depth to port separation distance is between about 0.3 and about 0.7.

[0089] In some configurations, the ratio of seal depth to port separation distance is about 0.475.

[0090] In some configurations, the seal depth is greater than about 10 mm.

[0091] In some configurations, the seal depth is greater than about 10 mm, up to about 16 mm.

[0092] In some configurations, the seal depth is greater than about 12 mm.

[0093] In some configurations, the seal depth is greater than about 12 mm, up to about 16 mm.

[0094] In some configurations, at least one of the inlet port and the outlet port is configured to form a seal with at least two seals on a complementary chamber connection port.

[0095] In some configurations, the port separation distance is between about 35 mm and about 45 mm.

[0096] In some configurations, the port separation distance is between about 38 mm and about 42 mm.

[0097] In some configurations, the port separation is about 40 mm ± 0.6 mm.

[0098] In some configurations, the humidifier liquid chamber includes a flow tube extending from the inlet port and the outlet port into the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0099] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, each flow tube includes an opening at or adjacent to the end of the flow tube distal from the respective port, the opening configured to direct flow and spaced from the wall of the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0100] In some configurations, the opening of each flow tube faces the roof of the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0101] In some configurations, the humidifier liquid chamber includes a baffle within the humidifier liquid chamber and between the openings of the flow tube.

[0102] In some configurations, the baffle extends downwardly from the roof of the humidifier liquid chamber and terminates above the maximum liquid fill level of the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0103] In some configurations, the distance between the lower edge of the baffle and the maximum liquid fill level is between about 5 mm and about 15 mm.

[0104] In some configurations, the baffle extends downwardly from the roof of the humidifier liquid chamber, terminating at or below the intended maximum liquid fill level of the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0105] In some configurations, the roof of the humidifier liquid chamber is sloped so that it is substantially non-horizontal in use.

[0106] In some configurations, at least one of the roof, baffle, and wall of the humidifier liquid chamber is configured to direct gas exiting an opening in the flow tube associated with the inlet port toward and over the surface of the liquid in the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0107] In some configurations, the humidifier liquid chamber is substantially free of dead space within the humidifier liquid chamber when in use.

[0108] In some configurations, each flow tube includes a liquid exhaust aperture at or adjacent the end of the flow tube distal from the respective port of the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0109] In some configurations, each flow tube includes an air outlet aperture in an upper surface of the flow tube.

[0110] In some configurations, the humidifier liquid chamber includes a step in the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0111] In some configurations, the base of the step is located at least partially below the inlet and outlet ports.

[0112] In some configurations, the baffle extends from the rear of the humidifier liquid chamber to a substantially vertical face of the step.

[0113] In some configurations, the baffle extends from the rear of the humidifier liquid chamber toward the substantially vertical face of the step and terminates near the central axis of the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0114] In some configurations, the humidifier liquid chamber has a substantially cylindrical shape.

[0115] In some configurations, the humidifier liquid chamber tapers from the base of the humidifier liquid chamber to the top of the humidifier liquid chamber toward the center of the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0116] In some configurations, the humidifier liquid chamber includes a thermally conductive base.

[0117] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, the base of the humidifier liquid chamber is removable from the body of the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0118] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, the humidifier liquid chamber includes one or more base removal features that assist in removing the base of the humidifier liquid chamber from the body of the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0119] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, one or more base removal features are disposed between a lower flange of the body of the humidifier liquid chamber and an outwardly extending flange of the base of the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0120] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, the one or more base removal features include a slot.

[0121] In some configurations, the humidifier liquid chamber includes a shoulder between the inlet and outlet ports.

[0122] In some configurations, the shoulders extend beyond the outer surfaces of the inlet and outlet ports.

[0123] Further, in accordance with at least one particular feature, aspect, and advantage of the embodiments disclosed herein, a humidifier liquid chamber manifold is disclosed, the humidifier liquid chamber manifold comprising: A base unit connection portion, first and second base unit connection ports for connection to a respiratory assistance apparatus base unit, the first and second base unit connection ports defining respective axes; Including, the base unit connection ports are substantially parallel to one another and separated by a port separation distance between the axes; at least one of the base unit connection ports has a seal depth defined by a portion of the port configured to overlap a complementary connection port of the base unit, the ratio of the seal depth to the port separation distance being greater than about 0.25; A base unit connection portion; A humidifier liquid chamber connection, comprising: first and second manifold-to-chamber connection ports for connecting to the humidifier liquid chambers, the first manifold-to-chamber connection port in fluid communication with the first base unit connection port and the second manifold-to-chamber connection port in fluid communication with the second base unit connection port; a humidifier liquid chamber connection including: Includes.

[0124] In some configurations, the ratio of seal depth to port separation distance is greater than about 0.25, and up to about 0.7.

[0125] In some configurations, the ratio of seal depth to port separation distance is between about 0.3 and about 0.7.

[0126] In some configurations, the ratio of seal depth to port separation distance is about 0.475.

[0127] In some configurations, the seal depth is greater than about 10 mm.

[0128] In some configurations, the seal depth is greater than about 10 mm, up to about 16 mm.

[0129] In some configurations, the seal depth is greater than about 12 mm.

[0130] In some configurations, the seal depth is greater than about 12 mm, up to about 16 mm.

[0131] In some configurations, at least one of the base unit connection ports is configured to form a seal with at least two seals on a complementary connection port of the base unit.

[0132] In some configurations, the port separation distance is between about 35 mm and about 45 mm.

[0133] In some configurations, the port separation distance is between about 38 mm and about 42 mm.

[0134] In some configurations, a first conduit extends between and fluidly connects a first manifold-to-chamber connection port and a first base unit connection port, and a second conduit extends between and fluidly connects a second manifold-to-chamber connection port and a second base unit connection port.

[0135] In some configurations, the axes of the first and second base unit connection ports are configured to be oriented substantially horizontally when the humidifier liquid chamber manifold is in use.

[0136] In some configurations, the axes of the first and second manifold-to-chamber connection ports are configured to be substantially vertically oriented when the humidifier liquid chamber manifold is in use.

[0137] In some configurations, the humidifier liquid chamber manifold includes an auxiliary port in communication with the interior of the humidifier liquid chamber manifold.

[0138] In some configurations, the humidifier liquid chamber manifold includes a conduit clip that engages a liquid conduit for delivering liquid to the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0139] Further, in accordance with at least one particular feature, aspect, and advantage of the embodiments disclosed herein, a humidifier liquid chamber is disclosed, the humidifier liquid chamber comprising: a base, a top, and one or more side walls; an inlet port and an outlet port defining an axis; at least two grips on the side wall, the grips being disposed at an angle to a plane extending transversely to the axis of the inlet and outlet ports and through the center of the humidifier liquid chamber; Includes.

[0140] In some configurations, the angle is between about 0 degrees and about 40 degrees relative to the plane.

[0141] In some configurations, the angle is between about 10 degrees and about 40 degrees relative to the plane.

[0142] In some configurations, each grip is a grip distance from the center of the humidifier liquid chamber, the distance being between about 50 mm and about 70 mm.

[0143] In some configurations, the grip distance is between about 55 mm and about 65 mm.

[0144] In some configurations, the grip is located on an opposite side of the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0145] In some configurations, a grip extends downwardly from the top of the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0146] In some configurations, the grip extends partially downward from the top of the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0147] In some configurations, the grip includes an inwardly facing recess.

[0148] In some configurations, the recesses are corrugated.

[0149] In some configurations, the recess has a radius of between about 10 mm and about 20 mm.

[0150] In some configurations, the grip has a substantially smooth grip surface.

[0151] In some configurations, the grip has a textured grip surface.

[0152] In some configurations, the chamber has a substantially cylindrical shape.

[0153] In some configurations, the chamber tapers from the base of the humidifier liquid chamber to the top of the humidifier liquid chamber toward the center of the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0154] In some configurations, the base is thermally conductive.

[0155] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, the base of the humidifier liquid chamber is removable from the body of the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0156] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, the humidifier liquid chamber includes one or more base removal features that assist in removing the base of the humidifier liquid chamber from the body of the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0157] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, one or more base removal features are disposed between a lower flange of the body of the humidifier liquid chamber and an outwardly extending flange of the base of the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0158] In some configurations of the humidifier liquid chamber, the one or more base removal features include a slot.

[0159] In some configurations, the inlet and outlet ports are located at the front of the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0160] In some configurations, the grip is located on a side of the humidifier liquid chamber, rearward of the plane.

[0161] In some configurations, the humidifier liquid chamber is configured to engage with the liquid chamber bay of the humidifier by sliding the humidifier liquid chamber into the liquid chamber bay in a substantially linear manner.

[0162] Further, in accordance with at least one particular feature, aspect, and advantage of the embodiments disclosed herein, a humidifier liquid chamber is disclosed, the humidifier liquid chamber comprising: an inlet port and an outlet port defining respective axes, the inlet port and the outlet port being substantially parallel to one another and configured to be oriented substantially horizontally when the humidifier liquid chamber is in use; flow tubes extending from the inlet and outlet ports into the humidifier liquid chamber, each flow tube including an opening at or adjacent an end of the flow tube distal from the respective port, the openings configured to direct flow, the openings being spaced from a wall of the humidifier liquid chamber, the opening of each flow tube facing a roof of the humidifier liquid chamber; a baffle disposed within the humidifier liquid chamber between the openings of the flow tube, the baffle extending downwardly from a roof of the humidifier liquid chamber and terminating above a maximum liquid fill level of the humidifier liquid chamber; include.

[0163] In some configurations, the distance between the lower edge of the baffle and the maximum liquid fill level is between about 5 mm and about 15 mm.

[0164] Further, in accordance with at least one particular feature, aspect, and advantage of the embodiments disclosed herein, a respiratory assistance apparatus is disclosed, the respiratory assistance apparatus including a base unit and either: A humidifier liquid chamber as outlined above, or A humidifier liquid chamber manifold as generally described above coupled to or integral with the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0165] In some configurations, the humidifier liquid chamber is disposed within a recess in the base unit.

[0166] In some configurations, the humidifier liquid chamber is removable from the recess in the base unit.

[0167] In some configurations, a port on the humidifier liquid chamber or a base unit connection port on the humidifier liquid chamber manifold mates with a complementary chamber connection port on the base unit.

[0168] In some configurations, a complementary chamber connection port is positioned to be received in a port on the humidifier liquid chamber or a base unit connection port on the humidifier liquid chamber manifold.

[0169] In some configurations, the overlap length between the humidifier liquid chamber port or the base unit connection port of the humidifier liquid chamber manifold and the complementary chamber connection port is sufficient to provide protection against liquid ingress.

[0170] In some configurations, the base unit includes a plurality of seals at each of the complementary chamber connection ports.

[0171] In some configurations, the base unit includes the flow generator.

[0172] In some configurations, the base unit is configured to fluidly connect to a separate or remote flow generator.

[0173] Features of one or more embodiments or configurations may be combined with features of one or more other embodiments or configurations. Furthermore, two or more embodiments may be used together during the process of providing respiratory assistance to a patient.

[0174] Reference to a numerical range disclosed herein (e.g., 1-10) also includes reference to every rational number within that range (e.g., 1, 1.1, 2, 3, 3.9, 4, 5, 6, 6.5, 7, 8, 9, and 10) and every range of rational numbers within that range (e.g., 2-8, 1.5-5.5, and 3.1-4.7), and therefore every subdivision of every range explicitly disclosed herein is intended to be expressly disclosed thereby. These are merely examples of what is specifically intended, and all possible combinations of numerical values ​​between the lowest and highest values ​​recited shall be considered to be expressly disclosed in this application as well.

[0175] It is to be understood that alternative embodiments or configurations may include any and all combinations of two or more of the parts, elements, or features illustrated, described or referred to herein.

[0176] The present invention may also be broadly stated to comprise each and every component, element, and feature referred to or illustrated in the specification of this application, and any and all combinations of any two or more of such components, elements, or features.

[0177] Those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains will envision numerous changes in configuration and various 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 purely illustrative and are not intended to be limiting in any sense. Where specific integers having known equivalents in the art to which the present invention pertains are described herein, such known equivalents are deemed to be included herein as if they were individually set forth.

[0178] As used herein, the term "comprising" means "consisting at least in part of." In interpreting each statement in this specification containing the term "comprising," features other than those accompanying the term may also be present. Related variations such as "comprise," "comprises," etc., are to be interpreted in the same manner.

[0179] As used herein, the ending "(s)" of a noun refers to the plural and / or singular form of that noun.

[0180] As used herein, the term "and / or" means "and" or "or," or both, where the context allows.

[0181] The present invention contemplates the above-described and following configurations, by way of example only.

[0182] Specific embodiments and improvements thereon will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the detailed description and upon reference to the drawings, as set forth below. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0183] [Figure 1] 1 shows a schematic form of a respiratory assistance device. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a front / right side overhead perspective view of a respiratory aid apparatus with the humidifier liquid chamber positioned within a recess in the respiratory aid apparatus base unit. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a front / left overhead perspective view of the respiratory aid apparatus with the humidifier liquid chamber removed from the recess in the respiratory aid apparatus base unit. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a front / right overhead perspective view of the respiratory support apparatus base unit, without showing the humidifier liquid chamber and heating plate. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a front / right bottom perspective view of the respiratory aid apparatus base unit, without the humidifier liquid chamber shown. [Figure 6]FIG. 13 is a front / right overhead perspective view of the removable elbow and shroud of the respiratory assistance apparatus base unit. [Figure 7] FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is a rear / right side perspective view showing the elbow from below, without the seal shown. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a top view of the shroud and elbow before the elbow is inserted into the shroud. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is an enlarged right side view showing the engagement mechanism on the elbow that engages with the shroud (dashed lines). [Figure 11] FIG. 13 is a right side view of the elbow, showing the location of the seal and temperature sensor in dashed lines. [Figure 12] FIG. 13 is a right side view of a portion of the elbow showing details of the seal. [Figure 13] FIG. 2 is an overhead perspective view of the humidifier liquid chamber. [Figure 14] FIG. 2 is an overhead plan view of the humidifier liquid chamber. [Figure 15] FIG. 2 is a front view of the humidifier liquid chamber. [Figure 16] 16 is a left side cross-sectional view of the humidifier liquid chamber taken along line 16-16 of FIG. 15. [Figure 17] FIG. 2 is an overhead perspective view of one of the flow tubes of the humidifier liquid chamber. [Figure 18] FIG. 2 is a front view of the humidifier liquid chamber showing the internal baffle in dashed lines. [Figure 19] 19 is a left side cross-sectional view of the humidifier liquid chamber taken along line 19-19 of FIG. 18. [Figure 20] FIG. 2 is a front / left overhead perspective view of the respiratory aid apparatus base unit and humidifier liquid chamber prior to insertion of the humidifier liquid chamber into the recess in the respiratory aid apparatus base unit. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a front / left side overhead perspective view similar to FIG. 20 but with the humidifier liquid chamber inserted into a recess in the respiratory support apparatus base unit. [Figure 22] FIG. 13 is a right side cross-sectional view showing the interaction of a seal on one of the device ports with one of the humidifier liquid chamber ports. [Diagram 23] This is a flow diagram from a computational fluid dynamics model showing the effect of the baffle height in a humidifier liquid chamber on flow stagnation near the inlet of the humidifier liquid chamber, for a humidifier liquid chamber (left) with no gap between the baffle and the liquid in the chamber, and a humidifier liquid chamber (right) with a 10 mm gap between the baffle and the liquid in the chamber. [Figure 24] FIG. 1 is a right side view of the humidifier fluid chamber illustrating the moment M caused by the offset grip relative to the central axis of the fluid chamber. [Diagram 25] FIG. 13 is an overhead plan view of the humidifier fluid chamber showing dimensions for a large diameter grasp with thumb abducted. [Figure 26] FIG. 1 is an overhead perspective view of a humidifier liquid chamber and manifold assembly for use with a respiratory assistance device. [Figure 27] FIG. [Figure 28] FIG. 2 is an overhead perspective view of the humidifier liquid chamber. [Figure 29] FIG. 13 is a side cross-sectional view through one of the chamber connection ports of the manifold showing the connection to one of the ports of the humidifier liquid chamber. [Diagram 30] FIG. 13 is an overhead perspective view of an alternative configuration of a humidifier liquid chamber having a removable base. [Diagram 31] FIG. 13 is an inverted side view of an alternative configuration of a humidifier liquid chamber with the base removed. [Diagram 32] FIG. 20 is a left-side cross-sectional view similar to FIG. 19, showing an alternative baffle configuration for the humidifier liquid chamber. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0184] A respiratory assistance device 10 for delivering a flow of gas (which may include one or more gases) to a patient is shown in Figure 1. The device 10 may be, for example, a CPAP device or a high flow device. An exemplary CPAP device is described in WO 2011 / 056080, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0185] A CPAP device is a gas supply and, optionally, a gas humidification device that is operable to provide respiratory assistance to a patient or user who requires a supply of gas (humidified or otherwise) at positive pressure for the treatment of conditions including obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), snoring, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and others. CPAP devices typically include a humidification liquid chamber, forming a combined assisted breathing unit and humidifier.

[0186] CPAP devices, when used in conjunction with a humidifier, typically have a structure in which gas at the required pressure is delivered from an assisted breathing unit or blower unit to a humidifier liquid chamber downstream of the blower. As the gas passes through the humidifier liquid chamber, it becomes saturated with liquid vapor (e.g., water vapor). A flexible tubular gas conduit delivers the gas from the humidifier liquid chamber downstream to the user or patient.

[0187] High flow devices may be used to deliver high flows of gas or high flow therapy to patients to assist breathing and / or treat respiratory disorders including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). High flow devices include a gas supply and typically include a humidification device.

[0188] The respiratory aid device typically has one or more attachments, such as a breathing conduit, and a patient interface, such as a cannula or mask, for delivering gas to the patient. The conduit allows the gas to be delivered from the housing of the respiratory aid device to the patient. For example, the device may be placed on a floor or other support surface and the patient may be on a bed. The respiratory aid device may have a recess for receiving a humidifier liquid chamber. The humidifier liquid chamber receives liquid, for example, from a flexible liquid bag that delivers liquid to the humidifier liquid chamber via one or more tubes. Alternatively, the humidifier liquid chamber may be removed and refilled as required. The recess houses a heating plate for heating the humidifier liquid chamber, humidifying the gas passing through the humidifier liquid chamber. The humidified gas is then delivered to the patient.

[0189] Broadly speaking, the device 10 includes a main housing 100 that houses a flow generator 11 in the form of a motor / impeller arrangement, a 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, or otherwise). The controller 13 is configured or programmed to control the components of the device, including operating the flow generator 11 to generate a flow of gas (gas flow) for delivery to a patient, operating the humidifier 12 to humidify and / or heat the generated gas flow, receiving user input from the user interface 14 for reconfiguration and / or user determined operation of the device 10, and outputting information (e.g., on a display) to a user. The user may be a patient, a medical professional, or any other person interested in using the device.

[0190] The patient respiratory conduit 16 is connected to a gas flow output or patient outlet port 30 in the housing 100 of the respiratory assistance apparatus 10 and is connected to a patient interface 17, such as a nasal cannula with a manifold 19 and nasal prongs 18. Additionally or alternatively, the patient respiratory conduit 16 can be connected to a face mask. Additionally or alternatively, the patient respiratory conduit can be connected to a nasal pillows mask, and / or a nasal mask, and / or a tracheostomy interface, or any other suitable type of patient interface. The gas flow generated by the respiratory assistance apparatus 10 may be humidified and delivered to the patient through the patient interface 17 via the patient respiratory conduit 16. The patient respiratory conduit 16 may have a heating wire 16a that heats the gas flow passing to the patient. The heating wire 16a is under the control of the controller 13. The patient respiratory conduit 16 and / or the patient interface 17 may be considered part of the respiratory assistance apparatus 10 or alternatively may be considered peripheral thereto. The respiratory assistance apparatus 10, the respiratory conduit 16, and the patient interface 17 may collectively form a respiratory assistance system, or, in some configurations, a flow therapy system.

[0191] The general operation of the exemplary respiratory assistance device 10 is known to those skilled in the art and need not be described in detail here. However, generally speaking, the controller 13 controls the flow generator 11 to generate a gas flow at a desired rate, controls one or more valves to control the mixture of air with oxygen or other alternative gases, and / or controls the humidifier 12 to humidify and / or heat the gas flow to an appropriate level. The gas flow is directed to the patient through a patient respiratory conduit 16 and a patient interface 17. The controller 13 may also control a heating element in the humidifier 12 and / or a heating element 16a in the patient respiratory conduit 16 to humidify and / or heat the gas to a desired temperature that provides a desired level of therapy and / or comfort for the patient. The controller 13 may be programmed with or may identify an appropriate target temperature for the gas flow.

[0192] Operational sensors 3a, 3b, 3c, 20, and 25, such as flow, temperature, humidity, and / or pressure sensors, may be located at various locations within the respiratory assistance apparatus 10 and / or at the patient breathing conduit 16 and / or patient interface 17. Output from the sensors may be received by the controller 13, which may assist in operating the respiratory assistance apparatus 10 in a manner to provide optimal therapy. In some configurations, providing optimal therapy includes meeting the patient's inspiratory flow. The apparatus 10 may include a transmitter and / or receiver 15, which allows the controller 13 to receive signals 8 from the sensors and / or control various components of the respiratory assistance apparatus 10, including, but not limited to, the flow generator 11, the humidifier 12, and the heated wires 16a, or accessories or peripherals associated with the respiratory assistance apparatus 10. Additionally or alternatively, the transmitter and / or receiver 15 may deliver data to a remote server or allow remote control of the apparatus 10.

[0193] Although the respiratory assistance device 10 may be any suitable type of device, in some configurations, a high gas flow or high flow therapy (e.g., air, oxygen, other gas mixtures, or any combination thereof) may be delivered 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. High flow therapy as discussed herein shall be given its typical and ordinary meaning as understood by those skilled in the art, and generally refers to a respiratory assistance system that delivers a targeted flow of humidified respiratory gas through an intentionally unsealed patient interface, generally at a flow rate intended to meet or exceed the patient's inspiratory flow. Exemplary patient interfaces include, but are not limited to, nasal or tracheal patient interfaces. Typical flow rates for adults often range from about 15 liters per minute (LPM) to about 70 liters per minute or more, but are not limited thereto. Typical flow rates for pediatric patients (e.g., neonates, infants, children) often range from about 1 liter per minute per kilogram of patient weight to about 3 liters per minute per kilogram of patient weight or more, but are not limited to this. High flow therapy may also include the administration of a gas mixture composition, optionally including supplemental oxygen, and / or therapeutic medications. High flow therapy is often referred to as nasal high flow (NHF), humidified high flow nasal cannula (HHFNC), high flow nasal oxygen (HFNO), high flow therapy (HFT), or tracheal high flow (THF), among other common names.

[0194] For example, in some configurations, for an adult patient, "high flow therapy" may refer to delivering gas to the patient at a flow rate of about 10 liters per minute (10 LPM) or greater, e.g., from about 10 LPM to about 100 LPM, or from about 15 LPM to about 95 LPM, or from about 20 LPM to about 90 LPM, or from about 25 LPM to about 85 LPM, or from about 30 LPM to about 80 LPM, or from about 35 LPM to about 75 LPM, or from about 40 LPM to about 70 LPM, or from about 45 LPM to about 65 LPM, or from about 50 LPM to about 60 LPM. In some configurations, for neonatal, infant, or pediatric patients, "high flow therapy" may refer to delivering gas to the patient at a flow rate of greater than about 1 LPM, such as from about 1 LPM to about 25 LPM, or from about 2 LPM to about 25 LPM, or from about 2 LPM to about 5 LPM, or from about 5 LPM to about 25 LPM, or from about 5 LPM to about 10 LPM, or from about 10 LPM to about 25 LPM, or from about 10 LPM to about 20 LPM, or from about 10 LPM to about 15 LPM, or from about 20 LPM to about 25 LPM. In adult, neonatal, infant, or pediatric patients, high flow therapy devices may, in some configurations, deliver gas to the patient at a flow rate of from about 1 LPM to about 100 LPM, or at a flow rate within any of the subranges described above. The delivered gas may include a percentage of oxygen. In some configurations, the percentage of oxygen in the delivered gas may be from about 20% to about 100%, or from about 30% to about 100%, or from about 40% to about 100%, or from about 50% to about 100%, or from about 60% to about 100%, or from about 70% to about 100%, or from about 80% to about 100%, or from about 90% to about 100%, or about 100%, or 100%.

[0195] High flow therapy has been shown to be effective in meeting or exceeding a patient's inspiratory flow, increasing the patient's oxygenation, and / or reducing the work of breathing. In addition, high flow therapy may produce a nasopharyngeal flushing effect, which forces a high inlet gas flow into the anatomical dead space of the upper airway. This provides a reservoir of fresh gas available for every breath while minimizing rebreathing of carbon dioxide, nitrogen, etc.

[0196] In one example of high-flow therapy, an unsealed or non-sealed user interface, such as a nasal cannula, is used. In CPAP, a sealed interface, such as a nasal mask, full face mask, or nasal pillows, is typically used.

[0197] The patient interface may be a non-sealed interface to prevent barotrauma (e.g., tissue damage to the lungs or other respiratory tract due to pressure differentials with respect to the atmosphere). The patient interface may be a nasal cannula with a manifold and nasal prongs, and / or a face mask, and / or a nasal pillows mask, and / or a nasal mask, and / or a tracheostomy interface, or any other suitable type of patient interface.

[0198] As described below, respiratory assistance device 10 may include various features to aid in the function, use, and / or configuration of device 10.

[0199] 2-5, respiratory assistance apparatus 10 in a first configuration includes respiratory assistance apparatus base unit 50 having a main housing 100. Main housing 100 has a main housing upper chassis 102 and a main housing lower chassis 104.

[0200] The main housing of the base unit 50 has a peripheral wall arrangement that defines a recess 108 that provides a humidifier liquid chamber bay for receiving a removable humidifier liquid chamber 151. The removable humidifier liquid chamber 151 contains a suitable liquid, such as water, for humidifying gases to be delivered to a patient.

[0201] The base unit 50 of the device 10 may have a removable finger guard 141 that guards against a user contacting the base flange 155 of the humidifier liquid chamber when the humidifier liquid chamber is in the recess 108 and when the finger guard barrier 141a is in the covered position as shown. The barrier 141a is movable between a covered position and a lowered access position in which the recess 108 is less covered or uncovered by the barrier 141a.

[0202] In the illustrated form, the peripheral wall arrangement of the main housing lower chassis 104 includes a substantially vertical left outer wall 109, a substantially vertical right outer wall 111, and a substantially vertical rear outer wall oriented in the fore-aft direction of the main housing 100. A bottom wall 115 extends between and connects the lower ends of the left outer wall 109, the right outer wall 111, and the rear outer wall and forms a substantially horizontal floor portion of the bottom of the apparatus and the liquid chamber bay.

[0203] The floor portion of the recess 108 has a receiving portion 108a for receiving a heating device, such as a heating plate 140 or other suitable heating element, for heating the liquid in the humidifier liquid chamber 151 for use during the humidification process. The heating plate typically has a shape that substantially corresponds to the shape of the base 154 of the humidifier liquid chamber 151, such as a circular shape. The heating plate 140 is resiliently mounted on a biasing device, such as a spring. The resiliently mounted position allows the heating plate to move downward to accommodate the humidifier liquid chamber 151 in the recess 108 while at the same time maintaining good contact between the heating plate 140 and the base of the humidifier liquid chamber where the humidifier liquid chamber is inserted into the recess 108.

[0204] The main housing lower chassis 104 can be attached to the upper chassis 102 either by suitable fasteners, such as clips, or by a built-in attachment mechanism. When the main housing lower chassis 104 is attached to the main housing upper chassis 102, the walls of the upper and lower chassis engage with each other.

[0205] The lower chassis 104 has a motor recess that receives a motor module that may be permanently inserted into the recess or may be removable from the recess. A recess opening is provided adjacent a rear edge of the bottom wall 115 to receive a removable motor module. A motor module base 123 covers the opening to the motor recess 121. The motor module includes a motor forming a blower for generating a flow of gas and may include one or more sensors for sensing characteristics of the gas passing through the motor module. The motor module may include sensors that sense parameters of the gas flowing through the motor module.

[0206] The motor module and base unit housing of device 10 are provided with suitable tubing and / or gas flow paths for delivering gas from one or more gas inlets in base unit 50 to gas inlet port 157 of humidifier liquid chamber 151 for humidifying the gas. Gas is delivered from gas outlet port 159 of humidifier liquid chamber 151 to patient outlet port 30 (via humidified gas inlet port 163) and thereby to the patient via patient respiratory conduit 16 and patient interface 17.

[0207] The motor recess 122 comprises a recess opening in the housing bottom wall 115. Alternatively, the recess opening may be in a different portion of the housing, such as in the side, front, or top of the housing.

[0208] The base unit 50 of the device 10 may include a battery module 125 to power the device in the event of a power outage or for portable use. The battery module includes a battery cover 126 that houses a battery. The battery in the battery module 125 may be replaceable.

[0209] In the illustrated embodiment, the battery cover 126 of the battery module 125 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 housing from the battery. Additionally, this configuration reduces the impact that heat emanating from the device's components has on the battery, especially while the battery is charging. In an alternative configuration, the battery may be mounted inside the main housing.

[0210] The housing may be provided with a battery cover 126 that covers the battery once installed. Alternatively, the battery may be installed directly on the housing 100 without a cover. The battery, and therefore the battery cover 126, may be sized so that it does not protrude from the housing's bottom wall 115. Alternatively, the battery cover 126 may protrude from the housing's bottom wall 115 by a greater amount to accommodate a larger battery.

[0211] As shown in FIG. 3, the base unit 50 of the device 10 has a mounting mechanism 127 for mounting the device to a support device.

[0212] The mounting mechanism 127 may be integrally formed with a portion of the main housing of the base unit 50 of the device 10. In the illustrated form, the mounting mechanism 127 is integrally formed with the left side wall 109 of the lower chassis 104 of the housing. The mounting mechanism 127 may instead be integrally formed with any of the other walls of the housing, such as the back wall, right side wall, or other wall.

[0213] The main housing of the device may be formed from any suitable material that can be integrally formed with the attachment mechanism 127. For example, the housing may be formed from polycarbonate.

[0214] An integral attachment mechanism 127 has higher impact strength compared to an additional, partially screwed one. Reinforcement of the attachment mechanism 127 may also be achieved, for example, by varying the wall thickness, providing ribbing, or varying the internal geometry.

[0215] The housing includes a handle 261 connected to the upper chassis 102 of the housing 100. The handle 261 is movable between a lowered, stored position and a raised, carrying position. In the raised, carrying position, a user can use the handle to carry the device 10.

[0216] Figures 3, 13-22 and 23-25 ​​show a humidifier liquid chamber 151 for use in respiratory aid apparatus 10. The humidifier liquid chamber 151 is a removable liquid chamber which is filled with a liquid such as water for humidifying the respiratory gas. The humidifier liquid chamber 151 is removable from the base unit 50 of respiratory aid apparatus 10 making it easier to refill or dispose of.

[0217] The humidifier liquid chamber 151 has a body 152 having a peripheral wall 153 and a roof 156. The roof 156 is at the top of the liquid chamber. The body 152 defines an inner chamber for receiving liquid. A base 154 is provided at a lower end of the peripheral wall 153 and includes a base flange 155 that projects outwardly from the lower end of the peripheral wall 153. First and second base unit connection ports, including a liquid chamber gas inlet port 157 and a liquid chamber gas outlet port 159, communicate with the inner chamber of the humidifier liquid chamber 151. The respiratory assistance apparatus base unit 50 includes complementary chamber connection ports, including a gas outlet port 161 and a humidified gas inlet port 163. When the humidifier liquid chamber 151 is received in the recess 108 and engages with the housing 100 of the base unit 50, the liquid chamber gas inlet port 157 is connected to the gas outlet port 161, which receives gas from the motor module via the gas flow path, and the liquid chamber gas outlet port 157 is connected to the humidified gas inlet port 163, which delivers humidified gas from the humidifier liquid chamber to the patient outlet port 30.

[0218] The humidifier liquid chamber 151 may have a generally circular peripheral shape, or may have any other suitable shape, with the shape of the recess 108 being adjusted accordingly, as required.

[0219] In the illustrated embodiment, the humidifier liquid chamber 151 has a substantially cylindrical shape.

[0220] The humidifier liquid chamber tapers from the base of the humidifier liquid chamber to the top of the humidifier liquid chamber toward the center C of the humidifier liquid chamber. The body 152 of the humidifier liquid chamber 151 resembles a truncated cone and is formed entirely from a clear plastic material to aid the user in observing the fill level.

[0221] The base 154 of the humidifier liquid chamber is thermally conductive. In particular, the base 154 of the humidifier liquid chamber 151 is made from a highly thermally conductive material such that, during use, contact with the heating plate 140 of the base unit 50 of the respiratory assistance apparatus 10 causes the liquid in the humidifier liquid chamber to heat up.

[0222] The humidifier liquid chamber 151 is fluidly connectable to the base unit 50 of the device 10 in a rear insertion direction CID of the humidifier liquid chamber 151 into the recess 108, which is from a forward position of the housing 100 toward the rear of the housing 100. The gas outlet port 161 is in fluid communication with the gas flow path from the motor / impeller unit via a fixed L-shaped elbow.

[0223] The humidified gas inlet port 163 is embodied in a removable component that includes a removable elbow 171 (FIGS. 6-12) that is removably connectable to the housing. The removable elbow 171 is L-shaped and further includes an upright patient outlet port 30 that couples to the patient respiratory conduit 16 to deliver gas to the patient interface 17. In a different configuration, the removable component may not have an elbow shape, but instead may have aligned inlet and outlet ports, for example.

[0224] The gas outlet port 161, the humidified gas inlet port 163, and the patient outlet port 30 each include a soft seal, such as a wiper seal, an L-seal, an X-ring, or an O-ring, to provide a sealed gas flow path between the device 10, the humidifier liquid chamber 151, and the patient breathing conduit 16, and optionally one or more other attachments.

[0225] The gas outlet port 161 and the gas inlet port 163 include multiple sealing elements. The sealing elements may be wiper seals, L-seals, X-rings, or O-rings. The wiper seals may have a T-shaped cross section. The gas outlet port 161 and the gas inlet port 163 may each include two, three, or more sealing elements. In one configuration, the gas inlet port 163 and the gas outlet port 161 each include a pair of wiper seals. In this configuration, the gas inlet port 163 has two wiper seals positioned adjacent to each other on the gas inlet port 163. Similarly, the gas outlet port 161 includes a pair of wiper seals positioned adjacent to each other on the gas outlet port 161. The pair of wiper seals (or other types of sealing elements) on each port 161, 163 improves the seal with the corresponding base unit connection port 157, 159, providing better protection against liquid ingress into the interior of the housing of the base unit 50 of the device, where the electronic components are located.

[0226] When the humidifier liquid chamber 151 is coupled to the gas inlet port 163 and gas outlet port 161 of the base unit 50, one wiper seal may be positioned inside each base unit connection port 157, 159, and when the humidifier liquid chamber is assembled with the base unit 50, one wiper seal may be positioned outside each base unit connection port 157, 159. Alternatively, when the humidifier liquid chamber 151 is assembled to the heater plate 140 within the recess 108, both wiper seals are positioned inside the respective base unit connection port 157, 159. The arrangement using two wiper seals for each port 161, 163 provides redundancy against liquid ingress. Similar arrangements can be used with L-seals, X-rings, or O-rings. The gas outlet port 161 and the gas inlet port 163 of the base unit 50 are constructed to have an elongated portion, i.e., the length of the ports 161, 163 is such that a wiper seal, L-seal, X-ring, or O-link may be retained over the ports 161, 163.

[0227] The gas inlet port 157 of the humidifier liquid chamber is complementary to the gas outlet port 161 of the respiratory support apparatus base unit 50, and the gas outlet port 159 of the humidifier liquid chamber is complementary to the humidified gas inlet port 163 of the respiratory support apparatus base unit 50. The axes of these ports are parallel and / or horizontal, allowing the humidifier liquid chamber 151 to be inserted into the recess 108 of the base unit 50 in a substantially linear movement such that a gas connection is formed between the ports.

[0228] The chamber connection ports 161, 163 are parallel cylindrical features extending from the housing of the respiratory assistance apparatus base unit 50. The ports 161, 163 typically have equal profiles and equal lengths, with axes in the same horizontal plane. The ports 161, 163 typically terminate in the same vertical plane at their respective distal ends. The ports 161, 163 have a port separation distance PSD or pitch (FIG. 3), which is the horizontal distance between the centers or axes of each port 161, 163. This is substantially equal to the horizontal distance between the centers of the base unit connection ports 157, 159 of the humidifier liquid chambers.

[0229] The chamber connection ports 161, 163 (male connection members in the illustrated form) of the respiratory assistance apparatus base unit 50 are concentrically inserted into the base unit connection ports 157, 159 (female connection members in the illustrated form) of the liquid chambers. Thus, each base unit connection port 157, 159 of the humidifier liquid chambers is configured to receive a corresponding chamber connection port 161, 163 of the respiratory assistance apparatus base unit 50. The inner diameter of the base unit connection ports 157, 159 is larger than the outer diameter of the chamber connection ports 161, 163.

[0230] The chamber connection ports 161, 163 and the base unit connection ports 157, 159 may be cylindrical. The ports 157, 159, 161, 163 may have any suitable cross-sectional shape.

[0231] The humidifier liquid chamber 151 may initially be inserted at an angle into the recess 108 and then tilted until it is substantially horizontal, so that the rear of the travel of the humidifier liquid chamber 151 is substantially linear. The recess 108 may include one or more retaining features, such as, for example, guide rails, that help hold the humidifier liquid chamber in position within the recess 108.

[0232] Respiratory support apparatus 10 may have any one or more of the features and / or functions of the respiratory support apparatus described and illustrated in WO 2016 / 207838 A9, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0233] To prevent or minimize leakage of gas from either of the two connections (port 157 to port 161 and port 159 to port 163), one or more sealing elements are provided for each connection. The one or more sealing elements may be on the outer surface of the male port and abut and seal with the inner surface of the female port. In one configuration, the gas inlet port 157 and gas outlet port 159 of the humidifier liquid chamber are female ports and the housing ports, i.e., gas outlet port 161 and humidified gas inlet port 163, are male ports. Alternatively, the ports 157, 159 of the humidifier liquid chamber may be male ports and the ports 161, 163 of the respiratory support apparatus base unit 50 may be female ports.

[0234] 6-12 show details of removable elbow 171. This section describes the features of the humidified gas inlet port 163 and its interconnection with the gas outlet port 159 of the humidifier liquid chamber, including seal 173, although the features of its interconnection with the gas outlet port 161 of the housing and the gas inlet port 157 of the humidifier liquid chamber are the same.

[0235] The humidified gas inlet port 163 includes a generally horizontally extending portion 162 that is configured to be inserted into the gas outlet port 159 of the humidifier liquid chamber. An end 163a of the port has rounded edges to aid in aligning the gas outlet port 159 with the humidified gas inlet port 163. Additionally, the end 163a is slightly smaller in diameter than the gas outlet port 159.

[0236] At least one recessed portion 163b is provided in the port 163. This recessed portion allows the seal 173 to be attached to the port. The seal 173 can be attached by overmolding directly onto the port 163. Alternatively, the seal 173 can be stretched around the end 163a of the port and placed in the recessed portion 163b. The seal can be shaped to remain in a stretched state to help hold the seal in place after being placed in the recess. Once the seal 173 is placed in the recessed portion 163b, the boundary of the recessed portion 163b prevents any movement of the seal 173 along the port 163. This allows the humidifier liquid chamber 151 to be connected / disconnected with lateral movement without the seal 173 coming out of the port 163.

[0237] The humidified gas inlet port 163 may include a plurality of seals or sealing elements disposed within the recessed portion 163b. The plurality of seals 175 may be wiper seals, L-seals, X-rings, or pairs of O-rings. The wiper seals may have a T-shaped cross section. In some configurations, the gas inlet port 163 may include three or more seals or sealing elements. A similar seal arrangement may also be on the outlet port 161 of the base unit 50. The wiper seal, or double seal, prevents or reduces breathing gas leakage and / or condensation from migrating toward the electronics in the removable elbow 171 and the elbow's electrical connector 178 (described below). Similarly, the seal reduces and preferably prevents the opportunity for liquid, or condensation, to flow back and drip into the gas outlet port 161 of the base unit 50, preventing water ingress into the electronics chamber of the base unit.

[0238] The seal 173 may be made from silicone rubber. In an alternative configuration, the seal 173 may be made from any suitable elastomer, such as polyurethane. Alternatively, the seal 173 may be made from a thermoplastic elastomer and / or a thermoplastic vulcanizate, especially if the seal is overmolded onto a removable elbow.

[0239] As previously mentioned, multiple sealing elements may be provided on the port 163 to seal the humidifier liquid chamber port 159 in multiple positions. Multiple sealing elements can be achieved by having multiple seals 173 and the port 163 having corresponding recesses 163b to accommodate each seal. Alternatively, in the illustrated configuration, multiple sealing elements 175 are incorporated into one seal 173 located within one recessed portion 163b.

[0240] Having multiple seal elements 175 on a seal 173 is preferable over having multiple seals on the port 163 because it reduces the number of seals that need to be installed during manufacturing. Additionally, the wider seal provided by providing multiple seal elements 175 reduces the chance of the seal being inverted during assembly onto the port 163.

[0241] Having multiple sealing elements 175 is advantageous in providing redundancy in the seal between the respiratory aid apparatus base unit 50 and the humidifier liquid chamber 151. This reduces the chance of respiratory gas leakage and / or liquid migration into the base unit 50, which would require the seal provided by each of the sealing elements 175 to fail. Additionally, having one sealing element 175, the forward sealing element, closer to the end 163a of the port 163 (compared to one centrally located sealing element) allows a seal to be formed between the humidifier liquid chamber 151 and the respiratory aid apparatus 10 even if the humidifier liquid chamber is not fully connected to the port 163. Having multiple sealing elements 175 also aids in aligning the humidifier liquid chamber 151 in the recess 108 and aligning the ports 159, 163 by providing multiple points of contact between the ports 159, 163. The rearmost sealing element 175 on the port 163 limits the position of the humidifier liquid chamber 151 more than the forward sealing element on the port because the rearmost sealing element is further from the center of the humidifier liquid chamber and therefore has less available angular rotation of the humidifier liquid chamber 151 to account for the tolerance between the sealing element and the liquid chamber ports 159, 163.

[0242] When multiple sealing elements are provided, the sealing elements may be equally spaced with respect to one another along the base 173a, although in other configurations the distance between the sealing elements may not be equal.

[0243] In some configurations, the distance between the sealing elements is equal to the distance between the forward sealing element and the end 163a of the gas inlet port 163. In other configurations, the distance between the sealing elements may not be equal to the distance between the forward sealing element 175 and the end 163a.

[0244] The forward sealing element is the primary sealing element and the rearmost sealing element is the secondary sealing element. The sealing elements make the effective outer diameter of the ports 161, 163 of the base unit 50 slightly larger than the inner diameter of the ports 157, 159 of the humidifier liquid chamber before connection.

[0245] The resilience of the seal allows for a rigid connection between ports 157, 159, 161, 163. Having multiple sealing elements 175 ensures that a pneumatic seal is obtained between the base unit 50 of the respiratory support apparatus 10 and the humidifier liquid chamber 151 if one seal fails.

[0246] How good a seal is obtained depends on how deep the corresponding chamber connection ports 161, 163 of the respiratory assistance apparatus base unit 50 are positioned into the base unit connection ports 157, 159 of the humidifier liquid chamber so that the seal element or elements 175 engage. This ensures that the diameters of the chamber connection ports 161, 163, base unit connection ports 157, 159 and seal 175 are of suitable dimensions to allow the seal or seals to engage. Advantageously, both seals 175 engage, minimizing any possible rotation or rocking of the humidifier liquid chamber 151 by restricting further degrees of freedom during use, as well as providing a pneumatic seal. Having both seals 175 engage provides redundancy if one seal fails.

[0247] It should be understood that when there is a complete seal between the base unit connection ports 157, 159 of the humidifier liquid chamber and the chamber connection ports 161, 163 of the respiratory assistance device base unit 50, some leakage will be accommodated between these components while still providing sufficient gas flow to the user.

[0248] One or more of the sealing elements 175 may be wiper seals. In the embodiment shown in Figs. 7 and 11, the wiper seal is a flexible annular rim that extends around the circumference of the port 163. As shown in cross section in Fig. 12, the wiper seal has a bulbous tip 175a disposed radially outwardly, which may have, for example, a circular cross section. The tip 175a is configured to contact the inner surface of the base unit connection port 159 of the humidifier liquid chamber. The wiper seal may advantageously have a narrow web section 175b that runs from the base of the seal to the tip 175a. The narrow web section 175b makes the wiper seal more flexible, while the larger bulbous tip 175a provides a larger surface area for sealing contact with the inner surface of the base unit connection port 159 of the humidifier liquid chamber. In some configurations, the wiper seal may not have a bulbous tip 175a.

[0249] 12, the radial height h1, h2 of each wiper seal is such that in an unbent state, the diameter of the wiper seal is greater than the inner diameter of the humidifier liquid chamber's base unit connection port 159. When the humidifier liquid chamber 151 is inserted into the recess 108, the wiper seal contacts the inner wall of the humidifier liquid chamber's base unit connection port 159 and bends downwards towards the base 173a of the seal 173 to accommodate the smaller inner diameter of the humidifier liquid chamber's base unit connection port 159. The resiliency of the seal means that the wiper seal 175 resists this bending, thereby providing a sealing force between the contact point on the humidifier liquid chamber's base unit connection port 159 and the tip 175a of the wiper seal. This configuration allows for slight variations in size due to manufacturing tolerances in both the wiper seal 175 and the humidifier liquid chamber's port 159, as the wiper seal bends to accommodate the actual diameter of the humidifier liquid chamber's port.

[0250] Another advantage of the wiper seals 175 is that they offer less resistance to axial movement. Unlike other seals, the wiper seals are able to flex and conform to the inner surface of the humidifier liquid chamber's base unit connection port, resulting in a reduced amount of friction, thereby facilitating connection and disconnection of the humidifier liquid chamber 151 to the housing 100 of the base unit 50 of the respiratory assistance apparatus 10.

[0251] However, the wiper seal 175 does provide a slightly higher resistance to movement of the humidifier liquid chamber 151 in some scenarios. When the humidifier liquid chamber is moving in a first direction (e.g., toward the housing 100 in the insertion direction CID during connection), the wiper seal 175 bends in a first orientation. When the humidifier liquid chamber is moving in a second direction (e.g., away from the housing 100 in the removal direction CRD during disconnection), the wiper seal 175 bends in a second orientation. Thus, when the humidifier liquid chamber 151 first moves in one direction and then moves in the opposite direction, the wiper seal 175 also switches from one orientation to the opposite orientation. This occurs by the wiper seal 175 bending into the gap between the seal base 173a and the inner surface of the liquid chamber port 159. As a result of this bending, the wiper seal 175 bends more than it normally would during normal movement of the two components, and therefore temporarily provides a greater resistance to movement of the humidifier liquid chamber 151 than it would normally.

[0252] This increased resistance can be advantageous because it is likely to occur after the humidifier liquid chamber 151 is connected, just before a user first attempts to remove the humidifier liquid chamber from the recess 108. In this situation, the deflecting effect of the wiper seal 175 provides a momentary resistance force that must be overcome to remove the humidifier liquid chamber 175. This helps to prevent the humidifier liquid chamber 151 from accidentally disengaging from engagement with the respiratory assistance apparatus 10, but does not prevent removal of the humidifier liquid chamber 151 once it has begun to move relative to the housing 100.

[0253] In an advantageous arrangement, each of the chamber connection ports 161, 163 of the respiratory assistance apparatus base unit 50 has one seal 173 disposed in one recess, the seal having two sealing elements 175 in the form of two wiper seals. The wiper seal closer to the end 163a of the gas port 163 can have a larger diameter than the other wiper seal (i.e. h1>h2). A longer wiper seal provides a more reliable seal and accommodates variations in the inner diameter of the respective base unit connection ports 157, 159 of the liquid chambers, but also requires more travel to settle into the correct position. This longer travel is provided by the liquid chamber 151 contacting the forward wiper seal sooner when the liquid chambers are connected.

[0254] In an alternative configuration, the wiper seal closer to the end 163a of the gas port 163 can have a smaller diameter than the other wiper seal (i.e., h2>h1), but there is a larger interference between the ports 157, 159 and the wiper seal closer to the end 163a of the gas port 163 than the other seal due to the internal taper of the ports 157, 159 of the humidifier liquid chamber 151. Similarly, h1 and h2 can be equal, and there is a larger interference between the ports 157, 159 and the wiper seal closer to the end 163a of the gas port 163 than the other seal due to the internal taper of the ports 157, 159. Exemplary internal tapers are described below.

[0255] In other alternative configurations, the wiper seal may have the same dimensions. In other alternative configurations, the wiper seal may have three or more seal elements 175.

[0256] In another alternative configuration, the wiper seals can be shaped to follow the internal taper of the ports 157,159, thereby providing the same interference between each wiper seal and the ports 157,159.

[0257] An alternative to a wiper seal is to use an O-ring, L-seal, or X-ring. Wiper seals are preferred to these alternatives because they offer less resistance to movement of the humidifier liquid chamber 151 and are easier to assemble and replace. O-rings and X-rings have the advantage of having a higher pressure threshold, but the pressure threshold of the wiper seal exceeds pressures that may be used in the respiratory assistance apparatus 10.

[0258] As a further alternative, one or more wiper seals may be used in addition to one of the alternative types of seals discussed above or any other suitable seal.

[0259] As shown in Figures 11 and 12, the seal 173 has another sealing element at or adjacent the end of the seal 173 opposite the distal end 163a of the gas port 163. In one configuration, the base 173a of the seal 173 also has an outward taper 173b that leads to a radially projecting flange 177. The flange 177 is positioned at or adjacent the end of the seal 173 at or adjacent the proximal end 163b opposite the distal end 163a of the port 163. The flange 177 is configured to form a seal with a component different from the first component (the humidifier liquid chamber base unit connection ports 157, 159). Thus, the flange 177 has a different configuration than the wiper seal 175. In the illustrated form, the flange projects radially outward further than the wiper seal 175, such that the flanged portion of the seal 173 has a larger diameter to interface with a second component having a larger inside diameter than the humidifier liquid chamber ports 157, 159. The outward taper 173b helps guide the different components into contact with the flange 175.

[0260] For example, the larger component may comprise part of a disinfection kit.

[0261] In an alternative construction, the flanges 177 may be an integral part of the ports 161, 163 instead of the seal 173, and therefore are made of a hard plastic.

[0262] Ends 161a, 163a of ports 161, 163 may contact a step on the inner surface of humidifier liquid chamber 151, thereby limiting the insertion depth of ports 161, 163 during use. Flange 177 and taper 173b do not interact with humidifier liquid chamber 151 in any way during use of the device, as humidifier liquid chamber 151 does not contact flange 177 and / or taper 173b. In an alternative configuration, humidifier liquid chamber 151 may contact flange 177 and / or taper 173b. This contact provides an additional seal between respiratory aid apparatus 10 and humidifier liquid chamber 151.

[0263] The flange 177 and taper 173 b may serve the additional purpose of providing a surface for a user to press against when connecting the removable elbow 171 to the housing 100 .

[0264] The base unit 50 of the device includes a shroud 190 which cooperates with the housing 10 and the removable elbow 171. Figure 6 shows the removable elbow 171 connected to the shroud 190. As shown, for example, in Figure 2, the shroud 190 serves to create a uniform upper surface of the housing 100 of the device 10, with the patient exit port 30 of the removable elbow 171 projecting upwardly through the shroud 190. The shroud 190 is configured such that it cannot be removed from the housing during normal use of the device 10.

[0265] 6 and 9, the shroud 190 includes a body 191 having a substantially flat horizontal top surface 193, two substantially wavy contoured shoulders 195 extending downwardly and outwardly from either side of the top surface 193, and two outer side walls 197 extending substantially vertically downwardly. A recess 199 extends rearwardly from a forward edge 193a of the top surface 193 into the top surface 193. The recess 199 is sized and configured to receive a portion of the removable elbow 171 and provide an unobstructed path for connecting the removable elbow 171 to the housing 100 of the base unit 50. In the illustrated form, the recess is defined by a pair of substantially parallel side walls 199a and an upper arcuate rear wall portion 199b. A contoured tapered rear wall region 199c projects into the recess from the arcuate rear wall portion and is positioned below the arcuate rear wall portion 199b. The contoured tapered rear wall region is configured to receive the chimney 179a of the removable elbow.

[0266] Similarly, the removable elbow 171 has a flat horizontal tab 172 extending therefrom that has a shape complementary to the shape of the recess 199 in the shroud so that when the removable elbow 171 is assembled to the device 10, the flat horizontal tab 172 is received in the recess 199 to create a uniform plane. The tab 172 additionally provides an upper surface for the conduit 16 to contact when connecting the conduit 16 to the patient outlet port 30 of the elbow.

[0267] 7 and 8, the flat horizontal tab 172 can have a thinned portion 172a adjacent to the forward end portion 172b and disposed between the patient exit port 30 of the elbow and the forward end portion 172b of the tab. This allows the forward end portion 172b to bend vertically with respect to the remainder of the elbow 171.

[0268] The flat horizontal tab 172 also has an engagement mechanism including two projections 174 extending outwardly from opposite sides of the tab's forward end portion 172b. The projections 174 are configured to interact with an engagement mechanism including complementary engagement recesses 201 extending outwardly from each of the side walls 199a of the recess 199 of the housing shroud on the underside of the shroud as shown in FIG. 10. The removable elbow 171 is configured to be connected to the housing by moving the removable elbow in a first direction relative to the housing (rearward toward the housing). The removable elbow 171 is configured to be disconnected from the housing by moving the removable elbow 171 in a second direction opposite the first direction (forward relative to the housing). Due to the interaction of the engagement mechanism, the removable elbow 171 is configured such that the removable elbow 171 cannot be moved in the second direction unless a portion of the removable elbow is actuated relative to another portion of the removable elbow. This prevents the removable elbow 171 from becoming dislodged from the shroud 190 of the housing 100 .

[0269] The rear portion of each projection 174 is designed with an angled surface 174a (FIG. 10). When the elbow 171 is inserted into the housing 100, this surface 174a contacts the underside of the shroud's forward edge 193a, which causes the thinned section 172a to flex, thereby bending the tab ends 172b downward. When the elbow 171 is fully inserted, the projections 174 reach complementary mating recesses 201 in the shroud. At this point, the projections 174 engage the recesses 201 as the tabs 172 return to a flat, horizontal position. When engaged, the projection's front surface 174b contacts the complementary surface 201b of the mating recess.

[0270] The front surface 174b of the projection is steeper, i.e., closer to vertical, than the rear surface 174a, so that if a user attempts to pull the elbow 171 from the shroud 190, and thus from the housing 100, the contact between the front surface 174b of the projection and the complementary surface 201b of the recess will not cause the tab to bend downward unless a sufficiently strong force is applied to the elbow 171.

[0271] In an alternative configuration, the removable elbow 171 and shroud 190 may each have one of the engagement features 174, 201 rather than two engagement features each.

[0272] To remove elbow 171 from housing 100, a user will typically first press down on the top surface of forward end portion 172b of tab 172 to actuate that portion of tab 172 by bending the tab, disengaging projection 174 from engagement recess 201. Only after the tab is bent can the user pull elbow 171 out of housing 100. One advantage of this is that it helps keep elbow 171 from coming loose when humidifier liquid chamber 151 is being removed from the device by pulling humidifier liquid chamber 151 out of recess 108.

[0273] This configuration allows a user to easily assemble elbow 171 with housing 100 in one single, one-handed motion, but then requires more complex interaction to separate them. If a user is unfamiliar with how to properly remove elbow 171 and attempts to remove it by pulling without actuating tab 172, the engagement features will experience sufficient force to eventually disengage from one another, thereby avoiding damage to removable elbow 171 and / or shroud 190.

[0274] In an alternative configuration, the engagement mechanism may be configured such that the removable elbow 171 cannot be disconnected from the shroud 190 of the housing 100 without actuating the tab 172. This can be accomplished by having a vertical front face 174b, 201b rather than a beveled front face.

[0275] 11 shows a schematic of the location 176 of a temperature sensor, such as a thermistor, within the removable elbow 171. The thermistor is located in the rear vertical wall of the upright portion of the elbow, near the curved transition area between the vertical and horizontal elbow sections. In this location, the thermistor is relatively insulated from the heat generated by the heater plate 140, thereby allowing a more accurate estimation of the temperature of the gas flowing through the removable elbow 171.

[0276] The elbow 171 has an electrical connector 179 positioned within an upright chimney 179 a , the connector being configured to supply electrical current from the main power board of the device 10 to the heating wire 16 a within the conduit 16 .

[0277] As previously mentioned, the shroud 190 is designed so that it will not become dislodged during normal use. The shroud has a mechanism that allows it to be clipped onto a screen carrier 211, which in turn is secured to the upper chassis 102 and becomes part of the housing 100. The screen carrier 211 is capable of connecting to and supporting a display 212. In an alternative configuration, the screen carrier 211 may not be provided and the shroud 190 may be clipped onto a portion of the housing 100, for example directly to the top surface of the housing or to the upper chassis 102.

[0278] The shroud 190 is configured to be attached to a screen carrier (not shown) of the housing 100 via two movements, an initial movement of the shroud in a first direction followed by a subsequent movement of the shroud in a second direction offset from the first direction. In one configuration, the second direction is transverse to the first direction. In the illustrated configuration, the shroud 190 is configured to be initially moved in a first downward direction and then moved in a second rearward direction relative to the screen carrier and thus the housing 100. The downward direction DD may be vertical and the rearward direction RD may be horizontal.

[0279] The shroud 190 is configured such that simply pulling the removable elbow 171 in the second forward direction relative to the housing 100 will not disengage the shroud from the screen carrier 211 of the housing.

[0280] Each side 197 of the shroud is shaped to complement the shape of the screen carrier. The side of the screen carrier of the housing 100 has two forward facing horizontal projections (one on each side wall) which engage complementary rearwardly opening recesses 194 in the rear wall on each side of the shroud 190 when the shroud is moved rearwardly relative to the housing. When the shroud 190 is connected to the screen carrier, the horizontal projections are received in the recesses 194 to prevent vertical movement of the shroud 190.

[0281] Similarly, the screen carrier of the housing 100 has an upstanding vertical protrusion on each side which engages a complementary downwardly opening recess 196 in the bottom of each side wall 197 of the shroud as the shroud moves in a downward direction relative to the housing. Unlike the horizontal protrusions, the vertical protrusions are narrower than the complementary recesses 196 in the shroud. This allows for a small amount of horizontal movement in the rearward direction. The vertical protrusions and recesses 196 aid in aligning the shroud 190 with the screen carrier during assembly.

[0282] The shroud 190 is first placed on the screen carrier and moved in a downward direction. The shroud is then slid horizontally in a rearward direction so that the horizontal protrusions engage complementary recesses 194 in the shroud.

[0283] The shroud 190 and screen carrier may have a second set of forward-extending horizontal protrusions and rearward-opening recesses 194a toward the forward ends of the screen carrier and shroud 190, further preventing vertical movement of the shroud 190 relative to the screen carrier.

[0284] The shroud 190 and screen carrier 211 of the housing 100 may additionally have features that prevent horizontal movement of the shroud relative to the screen carrier when they are fully engaged, such as one or more downwardly extending engagement protrusions extending downwardly from behind the underside of the shroud 190. The engagement protrusions are configured to engage complementary upwardly extending engagement protrusions extending from the top surface of the screen carrier.

[0285] The removable elbow 171 is removable from the housing 100 when the shroud 190 is attached to the housing.

[0286] In an alternative configuration, one or more of the engagement projections can be replaced with an engagement recess. One side of the engagement recess will have a complementary surface with a second side of the engagement projection such that they cannot be disassembled in the same manner as the configuration described above. In another configuration, one or more of the engagement projections can be replaced with a combination of engagement projections and engagement recesses, whereby the complementary engagement projections engage around the engagement projections and into the engagement recesses.

[0287] A similar shroud 190 and screen carrier 211 and / or housing 100 engagement arrangement can be used where the shroud 190 serves as a cover for a portion of a housing or other component, but the covered component is not removable.

[0288] 7 and 8, the removable elbow 171 also includes electrical connections. The elbow 171 has an inlet pneumatically connected to a first attachment for the respiratory assistance apparatus 10, e.g., the humidifier liquid chamber 151, an outlet pneumatically and optionally electrically connected to a second attachment for the respiratory assistance apparatus, e.g., the patient breathing conduit 16, and a printed circuit board (PCB) electrical connector 178 electrically connected to the respiratory assistance apparatus 10 and forming electrical connections with electrical components within the housing. The electrical connections provide electrical links between the base unit 50 and a temperature sensor 176 embedded within the elbow, as well as between the base unit 50 and the conduit 16 (if the conduit has one or more sensors and / or heating elements) via an electrical interconnect assembly 221 within the housing as described below. The PCB electrical connector 178 is electrically connected to the electrical interconnect assembly 221 when the removable elbow 171 is connected to the housing 100.

[0289] The pneumatic inlet connection of the removable elbow 171 is provided by the humidified gas inlet port 163, the pneumatic outlet connection is provided by the patient outlet port 30, and the outlet electrical connection is provided by a connector 179 (FIG. 9) provided in a chimney 179a that extends upwardly parallel to the axis of the port 30.

[0290] The humidified gas inlet port 163 and the patient outlet port 30 are in fluid communication with each other through a gas flow path in the removable elbow. The electrical connectors 178, 179 of the removable elbow are pneumatically isolated from the gas flow path between the humidified gas inlet port 163 and the patient outlet port 30 through at least one wall of the removable elbow. For example, the body of the removable elbow may be an injection molded plastic material, providing an isolation area for the electrical connectors that are separate and isolated from the gas flow path.

[0291] The portion of the removable elbow that is configured to form an electrical connection with the electrical component in the housing (electrical interconnect assembly 221), i.e., PCB electrical connector 178, is pneumatically isolated from the gas flow path of the removable elbow, so that merely coupling the removable component to the housing provides an electrical connection between the PCB electrical connector 178 and the electrical interconnect assembly 221. This does not form a direct pneumatic connection between the gas flow path in the removable elbow 171 and the housing 100. Instead, the gas flow path in the removable elbow provides a pneumatic connection between a first attachment (humidifier liquid chamber 151) and a second attachment (patient breathing conduit 16).

[0292] In the illustrated configuration, the PCB electrical connector 178 is partially housed within a housing 178a that is integrally formed with the elbow. The PCB electrical connector projects rearwardly from the housing 178a and is inserted horizontally (i.e., in the same rear insertion direction CID as when the humidifier liquid chamber 151 is connected to the base unit 50 and in the same rearward direction RD as when the shroud 190 is connected to the screen carrier 211) into the electrical connector on the base unit 50. Thus, the removable elbow 171 can be connected horizontally to the device in the rearward direction RD, and the humidifier liquid chamber 151 is then connected horizontally to the two chamber connection ports 161, 163. Alternatively, the humidifier liquid chamber 151 can be initially connected to the removable elbow 171, and then the assembled humidifier liquid chamber 151 and elbow 171 are connected together to the base unit 50 by moving them together in the rearward direction.

[0293] This allows the components to be assembled and disassembled in multiple ways. Specifically, elbow 171 is connected in three places during assembly. These three connections are between elbow 171 and patient breathing conduit 16, between elbow 171 and humidifier fluid chamber 151, and between elbow 171 and housing 100. Each of these three connections can be made in any order. Similarly, when disassembling the components, these three connections can be disconnected in any order. This is advantageous as different orders of assembly and disassembly may be preferred in different situations.

[0294] For example, the removable elbow 171 may be initially assembled with the housing 100 when the removable elbow may come assembled with the housing 100, and the humidifier liquid chamber 151 and conduit 16 are not attached until the device 10 is to be used. This is the most common assembly sequence since the removable elbow 171 is removed much less frequently than the humidifier liquid chamber 151 and / or conduit 16. Additionally, in a hospital, the humidifier liquid chamber 151 and conduit 16 may be replaced for each patient, whereas the removable elbow 171 may only be cleaned / disinfected after each use. Thus, the removable elbow 171 may be assembled with the housing 100 after cleaning, and the humidifier liquid chamber 151 and conduit 16 are only connected again when the patient needs to use the device 10.

[0295] The humidifier liquid chamber 151 and conduit 16 may also be removed prior to removing the elbow 171 after use of the device 10, and these components may be discarded first, with the removable elbow 171 remaining attached to the device 10 until it is cleaned. The removable elbow 171 may be cleaned while connected to the housing 100 using a disinfection kit as described above.

[0296] The conduit 16 and / or humidifier liquid chamber 151 may be pre-assembled with the removable elbow 171 after cleaning the elbow 171, thereby allowing all three components to be quickly connected to the housing 100 in a single operation as needed.

[0297] The removable elbow 171 may be disconnected from the housing 100 while leaving the conduit 16 and humidifier liquid chamber 151 attached, which may be beneficial, for example, if the patient has a particularly infectious disease. In these circumstances, it may be desirable to disconnect the removable elbow 171 in this manner, so that the circuit remains largely contained and can be easily discarded in its entirety.

[0298] Connecting and disconnecting the pre-assembled removable elbow 171, conduit 16, and humidifier liquid chamber 151 to the housing 100 is facilitated by connecting the removable elbow 171 and the humidifier liquid chamber 151 in the same direction (i.e., horizontally rearward) and by eliminating the need to attach a shroud 190 around the removable elbow 171 after the removable elbow 171 is inserted.

[0299] The PCB electrical connector 178 of the removable elbow 171 is inserted into an electrical interconnect assembly of the base unit 50. The interconnect assembly may be comprised of multiple components, such as a socket, a PCB, and an overmold. The socket defines a receptacle for receiving the PCB electrical connector of the removable elbow.

[0300] An alternative form of respiratory assistance device 10 may be a stand-alone humidification device that includes a base unit 50 that defines a main housing and a humidifier 12 .

[0301] Standalone humidification devices can deliver heated and humidified gases for various medical procedures, including respiratory therapy, laparoscopic surgery, and others. These devices can be configured to control temperature and / or humidity. The devices can also include medical circuits that include various components that can be used to transport heated and / or humidified gases to and / or from a patient. For example, in some breathing circuits, gases inhaled by a patient are delivered from a heating-humidifier through an inspiratory tube or conduit. As another example, a tube can deliver humidified gas (typically CO2) to the abdominal cavity in a delivery circuit. This can help prevent the patient's internal organs from drying out, or "drying out," thereby reducing the time required for post-operative recovery. The heater wires extend inside at least a portion of the tubing that forms the circuit to prevent or at least reduce the likelihood of significant condensation forming.

[0302] A freestanding humidifier device typically includes a base unit 50 and a humidifier liquid chamber 151. The base unit 50 may include a heating plate 140. The humidifier liquid chamber 151 may be configured to hold a volume of liquid, such as water. The heating plate may be configured to heat the volume of liquid held in the humidifier liquid chamber 151 to generate steam.

[0303] The humidifier liquid chamber 151 is removable from the base unit, which makes it easier to sterilize or dispose of the humidifier liquid chamber, or to refill the humidifier liquid chamber with liquid. The body of the humidifier liquid chamber 151 can be formed from a non-conductive glass or plastic material, although the humidifier liquid chamber can also include conductive components. For example, the humidifier liquid chamber can include a highly thermally conductive base (e.g., an aluminum base) in contact with or associated with a heating plate on the heater base.

[0304] The base unit may also include an electronic controller, such as a master controller, which, in response to user input of humidity or temperature values ​​and other inputs via a user interface, determines when (or to what extent) to energize the heating plate 140 to heat the liquid in the humidifier liquid chamber 151.

[0305] The free-standing humidification device may include a flow generator that delivers gas to the humidifier liquid chamber. In some configurations, the flow generator may include a ventilator, blower, or any other suitable source of pressurized gas suitable for use in respiratory or medical procedures. The flow generator may be located within the base unit 50.

[0306] Alternatively, a stand-alone humidification device may include only the base unit 50 and the humidifier liquid chamber 151 and may be used with a separate or remotely located flow generator. The base unit 50 may be configured to be in fluid communication with a separate or remotely located flow generator.

[0307] Thus, the flow generator used with the free-standing humidification device may be, for example, a wall mounted gas source, a ventilator, a blower, or a gas cylinder.

[0308] Standalone humidification devices may be used in respiratory therapy, positive pressure devices, non-invasive ventilation, surgical procedures including but not limited to laparoscopic surgery, and others. Desirably, the humidification device may be adapted to provide moisture or steam to a supply of gases. The humidification device may be used in continuous, variable, or bi-level PAP systems or other forms of respiratory therapy. In some configurations, the humidification device may be incorporated into systems providing any such type of therapy.

[0309] Exemplary free-standing humidification devices are described in WO 2015 / 038013, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0310] A freestanding humidification device may have any one or more of the features described or illustrated herein to enable interaction with the humidifier liquid chamber 151, 151' and / or manifold 1701.

[0311] Figures 3, 13-22 and 23-25 ​​show features of a humidifier liquid chamber 151 for use in respiratory assistance apparatus 10. The features shown in the figures and described herein for the humidifier liquid chamber 151 may be implemented in a humidifier liquid chamber manifold 1701 for use with the humidifier liquid chamber 151 or an alternative humidifier liquid chamber 1151 such as that shown in Figures 27-30. Like numbers are used to indicate like parts of manifold 1701 and have been incremented by 1000.

[0312] The humidifier liquid chamber 151 has first and second base unit connection ports defined by a gas inlet port 157 and a gas outlet port 159. The base unit connection ports 157, 159 are for connection to a respiratory assistance apparatus base unit 50. A gas outlet port 161 and a humidified gas inlet port 163 of the respiratory assistance apparatus base unit 50 define first and second chamber connection ports of the respiratory assistance apparatus base unit 50. The first and second base unit connection ports 157, 159 are configured to connect to the first and second chamber connection ports 161, 163, respectively.

[0313] In use, the humidifier liquid chamber 151 receives a flow of gas from the gas outlet port 161 humidifies the gas flow and then delivers the gas to the humidified gas inlet port 163 .

[0314] The first and second base unit connection ports 157, 159 define respective axes A1, A2 (FIG. 14). The base unit connection ports are substantially parallel to one another and separated by a port separation distance PSD between the axes A1, A2.

[0315] The first and second base unit connection ports 157, 159 are configured to be in a substantially horizontal orientation when the humidifier liquid chamber is in use.

[0316] At least one, and optionally both, of the base unit connection ports 157, 159 have a seal depth SD defined by a portion of the port 157, 159 configured to overlap a complementary chamber connection port 161, 163 of the respiratory assistance apparatus base unit 50. At least one of the base unit connection ports 157, 159 is configured to interact with a seal 173 of at least one of the chamber connection ports 161, 163.

[0317] The ratio of seal depth SD to port separation distance PSD is designed for accurate connection and sealing of chamber connection ports 161, 163. As mentioned above, a perfect seal between base unit connection ports 157, 159 and chamber connection ports 161, 163 is not necessary and some leakage may be accommodated between these components while still providing sufficient gas flow to the user.

[0318] In one exemplary configuration, the port separation distance PSD of the chamber connection ports 161, 163 of the respiratory assistance apparatus base unit 50 is 40 mm and there are two seal elements 175 on each seal 173. The primary seal is located 6 mm from the humidifier liquid chamber ends 161 a, 163 a of the ports 161, 163 and the secondary seal is located 12 mm from the humidifier liquid chamber ends 161 a, 163 a of the ports 161, 163.

[0319] The ratio of the seal depth SD to the port separation distance PSD of the base unit connection ports 157, 159 is greater than about 0.25, greater than about 0.25 to about 0.7, between about 0.3 and about 0.7, between about 0.3 and about 0.6, between about 0.4 and 0.5, between about 0.45 and 0.5, or about 0.475. The ratio of the seal depth SD to the port separation distance PSD of the base unit connection ports can be about 0.25, about 0.275, about 0.3, about 0.325, about 0.35, about 0.375, about 0.4, about 0.425, about 0.45, about 0.475, about 0.5, about 0.525, about 0.55, about 0.575, about 0.6, about 0.625, about 0.65, about 0.675, about 0.7, or any value or range between these values.

[0320] Increasing this ratio will facilitate visual alignment for the user with the concentric connections between the ports 157, 159, 161, 163 and also increase the likelihood of a successful seal. However, increasing this ratio above 0.7 may impact the ability of the humidifier liquid chamber to properly humidify the gas flow. In some scenarios, the extension flow tube 301, described in the next section, may interfere with the roof of the humidifier liquid chamber and need to be redesigned, or the humidifier liquid chamber itself will be less likely to fit within the designated space and properly engage with the respiratory assistance apparatus base unit 50.

[0321] The seal depth SD is greater than about 10 mm, greater than about 10 mm and up to about 16 mm, greater than about 12 mm, or greater than about 12 mm and up to about 16 mm. The seal depth SD can be about 10 mm, about 11 mm, about 12 mm, about 13 mm, about 14 mm, about 15 mm, about 16 mm, or any value or range therebetween.

[0322] 16 and extends from the outer surface 160 of the base unit connection port 159 to the front of the flange 303a (where it meets at the other base unit connection port 157). The seal depth represents the maximum extent of overlap between the ports 157, 159, 161, 163.

[0323] The port separation distance PSD is between about 35 mm and about 45 mm, between about 38 mm and about 42 mm, or about 40 mm ± 0.6 mm. The port separation distance PSD can be about 35 mm, about 36 mm, about 37 mm, about 38 mm, about 39 mm, about 40 mm, about 41 mm, about 42 mm, or any value or range between these values.

[0324] 15, the distance H between the central axis A1, A2 of the base unit connection ports 157, 159 and the underside of the body 152 of the humidifier liquid chamber 151 is at least about 85 mm, or at least about 86 mm, or at least about 87 mm, or at least about 88 mm. That is, the central axis A1, A2 of each base unit connection port is at least about 85 mm, or about 86 mm, or about 87 mm, or about 88 mm above the underside of the humidifier liquid chamber body.

[0325] In some configurations, the lower surface of the humidifier liquid chamber body 152 is defined by an upper edge 155 a of the lower flange 155 of the humidifier liquid chamber body 152 .

[0326] The underside of the main body 152, i.e., the upper edge of the lower flange 155, is configured to engage with one or more retaining features in the respiratory assistance device base unit to assist in retaining the liquid chamber 151 in engagement with the respiratory assistance device base unit.

[0327] For example, retaining features may be provided in the recess 108 to help hold the humidifier liquid chamber 151 in place within the recess 108 and engage the base unit connection ports 157, 159 with the chamber connection ports 161, 163. The distance between the retaining features in the recess 108 and the centers of the chamber connection ports 161, 163 corresponds to the distance H between the central axes A1, A2 of the base unit connection ports 157, 159 and the underside of the body 152 of the humidifier liquid chamber 151.

[0328] If the heating plate 140 is resiliently mounted, the heating plate can accommodate variations in the distance between the base flange 155 and the bottom surface of the base 154 of the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0329] At least one of the base unit connection ports 157 , 159 is configured to form a seal with at least two seals 175 on the complementary chamber connection ports 161 , 163 .

[0330] In some configurations, both of the base unit connection ports 157,159 are configured to overlap with complementary chamber connection ports 161,163.

[0331] In some configurations, both of the base unit connection ports 157,159 are configured to interface with the seals 173 of the chamber connection ports 161,163.

[0332] In some configurations, each of the base unit connection ports 157 , 159 is configured to form a seal with at least two seals 175 of the complementary chamber connection ports 161 , 163 .

[0333] Referring to Figures 16 and 22, each of the base unit connection ports 157, 159 of the humidifier liquid chamber 151 includes at least two sealing portions 159S1, 159S2 configured to form at least two seals with a portion of the respiratory support device base unit 50 when connected to the respiratory support device base unit 50.

[0334] In the illustrated configuration, each base unit connection port 157, 159 has two seal portions 159S1, 159S2 configured to form at least two seals with two seal elements 175 on the complementary chamber connection ports 161, 163. Alternatively, each base unit connection port 157, 159 can have three or more seal portions configured to form three or more seals with three or more seal elements.

[0335] 16, the two seal portions 159S1, 159S2 are separated by a distance 159D of about 5 mm to about 7 mm in the axial direction of the base unit connection port. In an alternative configuration, the two seal portions 159S1, 159S2 can be separated by a distance 159D of about 5.5 mm to about 6.5 mm, or by a distance of about 6 mm.

[0336] As outlined above, each base unit connection port 157, 159 of the humidifier liquid chamber 151 may include an internal taper such that the port narrows from the base unit connection port end 159b toward the opposite end of the base unit connection port. The internal taper may have any suitable angle, such as, for example, between about 2 degrees and about 10 degrees, between about 2 degrees and about 8 degrees, between about 2 degrees and about 6 degrees, between about 3 degrees and about 5 degrees, or about 4 degrees.

[0337] In one configuration, the inner diameter 159S1D of the first seal portion of the seal portion proximal to the end 159b of the base unit connection port 157, 159 is about 0 mm to about 0.6 mm larger than the inner diameter 159S2D of the second seal portion of the seal portion distal to the end 159b of the base unit connection port. That is, in some configurations, the first seal portion 159S1 may be the same size as or larger than the second seal portion 159S2. In some configurations, the inner diameter 159S1D of the first seal portion 159S1 may be greater than about 0 mm and up to about 0.6 mm larger than the inner diameter 159S2D of the second seal portion 159S2.

[0338] In one configuration, the inner diameter 159S1D of the first one of the seal portions is less than about 25.6 mm, or less than about 25.4 mm, or less than about 25.2 mm. In one configuration, the inner diameter 159S2D of the second one of the seal portions is less than about 25.4 mm, or less than about 25.2 mm, or less than about 25.0 mm.

[0339] The inner surface of each base unit connection port 157, 159 may be substantially continuous between and including the first and second seal portions 159S1, 159S2. Alternatively, the inner surface may be discontinuous. For example, a step may be provided between the first seal portion 159S1 and the second seal portion 159S2.

[0340] The overlapping length of the base unit connection ports 157, 159 and the chamber connection ports 161, 163 is sufficient to provide improved protection against liquid ingress.

[0341] Base unit connection ports 157, 159 have exterior surfaces 158, 160, respectively. Exterior surfaces 158, 160 are the front faces of base unit connection ports 157, 159 and are at the ends of the base unit connection ports distal from the rear ends of the base unit connection ports that connect to humidifier liquid chamber body 152.

[0342] The outer surfaces 158,160 are substantially planar and substantially perpendicular to the axes A1,A2 of the base unit connection ports 157,159.

[0343] 16 and 17, the humidifier liquid chamber 151 includes an extension flow tube 301 that extends from the first and second base unit connection ports 157, 159 into the interior of the liquid chamber.

[0344] The extension flow tube 301 may be inserted into the first and second base unit connection ports 157 , 159 , or may alternatively be formed integrally with the humidifier liquid chamber 151 .

[0345] Each flow tube 301 includes a tubular finger having a forward end 303 and an elongated body 305 terminating in a rear end 307. The rear end 307 of the flow tube is outwardly convex and inwardly concave to provide a smooth flow transition FT from a generally horizontal to a generally vertical flow direction.

[0346] The flow tube 301 can be inserted into the respective base unit connection ports 157, 159 through the front ends 158, 159 of the ports 157, 159. The front end 303 of the flow tube 301 includes one or more flanges 303a (and in the illustrated form there are two flanges 303a) that define a rearward detent that engages against a shoulder 159a at the interface between the ports 157, 159 and the humidifier liquid chamber body 152. The shoulder is formed by a vertical wall 505.

[0347] The front end 303 of the flow tube 301 also includes one or more engagement features 303b to prevent removal of the flow tube 301 from the base unit connection ports 157,159 when the flow tube 301 is engaged with the base unit connection ports 157,159.

[0348] The engagement feature 303b is spaced from the flange 303a.

[0349] In the illustrated form, the engagement feature 303b comprises a tapered wedge member having a major dimension adjacent the flange 303(a) and a minor dimension spaced further from the flange 303(a). This configuration allows the flow tube to be easily inserted into the base unit connection port 157, 159 with a portion of the shoulder engaging against the major dimension of the wedge member to prevent the flow tube from disengaging from the shoulder base unit connection port. Other types of engagement features, such as radially extending protrusions, can be used.

[0350] The flow tube 301 includes an opening 309 at or adjacent to a rear end 307 of the flow tube distal from the respective base unit connection ports 157, 159. The opening 309 is configured to direct flow and allow a generally vertical flow to exit the flow tube and is spaced from the wall of the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0351] The opening 309 is shaped to help reduce the likelihood of splashing or liquid entrapment.

[0352] 16, the opening 309 faces the roof 156 of the humidifier liquid chamber 151 and is spaced from the roof. Alternatively, the opening 309 may face the sidewall 153 of the humidifier liquid chamber 151 and be spaced from the sidewall. Alternatively, the opening 309 may be angled to face both the roof 156 and the sidewall 153 of the humidifier liquid chamber and be spaced from the roof and the sidewall.

[0353] The flow tube 301 includes a liquid exhaust aperture 311 at or adjacent to the rear end 307 of the flow tube distal from the respective base unit connection port. The exhaust aperture allows liquid to be exhausted back into the humidifier liquid chamber after filling the humidifier liquid chamber through one of the ports 157, 159, i.e., that liquid has accumulated from condensation.

[0354] The flow tube 301 includes a gas exit aperture 313 on the top surface of the flow tube. In the illustrated form, the gas exit aperture 313 is rectangular in shape and is located adjacent the front end 303 of the flow tube. The gas exit aperture 313 may alternatively be located elsewhere in the flow tube, such as closer to the rear end 307. The gas exit aperture 313 may have a different shape, such as, for example, square or circular.

[0355] The gas outflow aperture 313 allows the humidifier liquid chamber 151 to fill to its intended maximum liquid fill level when the humidifier liquid chamber is turned on its back and liquid is poured into the humidifier liquid chamber via ports 157, 159. In such an orientation, the gas outflow aperture 313 allows air in the humidifier liquid chamber 151 to be displaced by liquid entering and filling the humidifier liquid chamber. Without this aperture, when the liquid is filled to a certain level, the air in the humidifier liquid chamber can no longer be displaced because the air passage out of the humidifier liquid chamber would be blocked.

[0356] Alternatively, the gas exit aperture 313 may not be present and a funnel may be used to fill the liquid chamber.

[0357] 18, 19, and 23, the humidifier liquid chamber 151 includes a baffle 401 inside the humidifier liquid chamber. The baffle 401 is disposed between the base unit connection ports 157, 159 and the opening 309 of the flow tube 301.

[0358] The baffle 401 is in the form of a wall that is substantially vertically oriented, has relatively large vertical and front-to-rear dimensions, and has a relatively small lateral dimension.

[0359] The baffle 401 may be a unitary component or may be formed from multiple elements.

[0360] Baffle 401 extends downwardly from the roof 156 of the humidifier liquid chamber 151 and terminates above the maximum liquid fill level MFL of the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0361] As used herein, "maximum liquid fill level" means the maximum level to which the humidifier liquid chamber 151 can be filled with liquid and / or the maximum level to which a user is intended to fill the humidifier liquid chamber 151 with liquid.

[0362] The lower edge 403 of the baffle 401 is disposed above the surface of the liquid in the humidifier liquid chamber when the liquid chamber is filled to the maximum liquid fill level for the use of the liquid chamber.

[0363] When the gas flow enters the humidifier liquid chamber 151, it strikes the roof 156 of the humidifier liquid chamber and is directed downwards towards the liquid level. The baffle 401 minimizes the gas flow from exiting the humidifier liquid chamber 151 before it has been properly humidified by creating a tortuous flow path between the inlet and outlet extension flow tubes 301. The baffle 401 increases the minimum residence time of the gas in the humidifier liquid chamber. The baffle 401 terminates at a vertical surface 505 above the water level. This leaves an area for the gas flow bounded by the step base 503, the baffle 401, the chamber wall 153, and the liquid level MFL, highlighted in FIG. 19 as area GA. When the humidifier liquid chamber 151 is filled with liquid to the maximum liquid fill level MFL (not shown to scale in FIG. 19), the liquid level is an appropriate distance D1 from the lower edge 403 of the baffle 401.

[0364] Distance D1 can be between about 5 mm and about 15 mm. The distance can be between about 6 mm and about 14 mm, between about 7 mm and about 13 mm, between about 8 mm and about 12 mm, between about 9 mm and about 11 mm, about 5 mm, about 6 mm, about 7 mm, about 8 mm, about 9 mm, about 10 mm, about 11 mm, about 12 mm, about 13 mm, about 14 mm, about 15 mm, or any value or range between those values.

[0365] The roof 156 of the humidifier liquid chamber is sloped so that it is substantially non-horizontal in use. In the illustrated form, the roof 156 is sloped rearwardly so that the roof is lower at its rear edge 156a than its front edge 156b (FIG. 19). The roof 156 may be substantially arcuate as shown.

[0366] At least one of the roof 156, baffle 401, and wall 153 of the humidifier liquid chamber, and in some configurations all of them, are configured to direct gas exiting the flow tube opening 309 associated with the first base unit connection port 157 towards and over the surface of the liquid in the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0367] The space between the maximum liquid fill level MFL and the lower edge 403 of the baffle 401 ensures that the humidifier liquid chamber in use is substantially free of dead space (i.e. stagnant areas), i.e. there are substantially no spots within the humidifier liquid chamber above the liquid level where gas flow is stagnant or stationary. This is shown in Figure 23.

[0368] FIG. 23 shows the effect of baffle height for baffles spaced above the maximum liquid fill level (right) versus baffles not spaced above the maximum liquid fill level (left). The curved arrows highlight the gas flow velocity vector plots overlaid. The plot on the left reveals a stagnation region SR on the inlet side of the humidifier liquid chamber, while the plot on the right reveals reduced stagnation on the inlet side of the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0369] By increasing the distance from the opening 309 of the extension flow tube 301 to the lower edge 403 of the baffle 401 (by having the opening 309 facing upward), an increase in the relative humidity of the exit gas is obtained.

[0370] In an alternative configuration, the baffle 401 extends downwardly from the roof 156 of the humidifier liquid chamber and terminates at or below the intended maximum liquid fill level MFL of the humidifier liquid chamber. In that configuration, the lower edge 403 of the baffle 401 is located at or below the surface of the liquid in the humidifier liquid chamber when the humidifier liquid chamber is filled at the intended liquid level for the humidifier liquid chamber's use.

[0371] 13, 15 and 19, the humidifier liquid chamber 151 includes a step 501. The step 501 is located in an upper front region of the humidifier liquid chamber and forms recesses for the first and second base unit connection ports 157, 159.

[0372] The stepped base 503 is at least partially located below the first and second base unit connection ports 157, 159. In some configurations, the base 503 is located entirely below the first and second base unit connection ports 157, 159.

[0373] In the illustrated form, the stepped base 503 has a staggered configuration such that an outer region 503a of the base adjacent the sides of the humidifier liquid chamber 151 is relatively higher, a middle region 503b of the base corresponding to the location of the first and second base unit connection ports 157, 159 is relatively lower, and a central region 503c between the base unit connection ports is relatively higher. In the illustrated form, the outer region 503a and the central region 503c are located at approximately half the height of the base unit connection ports 157, 159, with the middle region being located below the base unit connection ports 157, 159. However, the heights of the regions relative to the connection ports may vary.

[0374] The intermediate region 503b is arcuate in front view, with a curvature that substantially corresponds to the curvature of the base unit connection ports 157, 159. The intermediate region 503b extends forward beyond the outer surfaces 158, 160 of the first and second base unit connection ports 157, 159 and may contact the rear of the chamber connection ports 161, 163 when the humidifier liquid chamber 151 is engaged with the respiratory assistance apparatus base unit 50.

[0375] The rear of the base 503 connects to a step substantially vertical surface 505. The substantially vertical surface 505 extends upwardly from the base 503 and connects to the roof 156. The base unit connection ports 157, 159 protrude forwardly from the substantially vertical surface 505.

[0376] The baffle 501 extends from the rear of the liquid chamber body 152 to a substantially vertical surface 505 of the step. Having the baffle 501 begin at the rear of the humidifier liquid chamber body 152 prevents gas exiting the gas inlet port 157 from flowing around the baffle directly to the gas outlet port 159 without picking up sufficient moisture from the water.

[0377] As shown in FIG. 19, the baffle 401 extends downwardly beyond the base 503 of the step such that the lower edge 403 of the baffle is below the base 503 of the step.

[0378] There is a shoulder between the first and second base unit connection ports 157, 159 such that the first and second base unit connection ports 157, 159 are located on either side of the shoulder. The shoulder is formed by a central region 503c of the base 503 of the step 501.

[0379] The shoulder 503c extends forward beyond the outer surfaces 158, 160 of the first and second base unit connection ports 157, 159. The shoulder 503c aids in the physical and visual alignment of the device with the humidifier liquid chamber 151. The shoulder 503c aligns with the space between the chamber connection ports 161, 163 of the device.

[0380] Shoulder 503c may have an arcuate top / front surface as shown.

[0381] In an alternative configuration of the humidifier liquid chamber 151' shown in Figure 32, the baffle 401' extends from the rear of the humidifier liquid chamber body 152' toward the substantially vertical surface 505' of the step and terminates near the central axis CA of the humidifier liquid chamber 151'.

[0382] In some configurations, the spacing or distance D2 between the leading edge 401a' of the baffle and the substantially vertical face 505' of the step is at least about 20 mm, or at least about 21 mm, or at least about 22 mm, or at least about 23 mm.

[0383] In some configurations, the baffle length BL from the trailing edge of the baffle adjacent the roof trailing edge 156a' to the leading edge 401a of the baffle is between about 40 mm and about 50 mm. In some configurations, the length BL is between about 41 mm and about 49 mm, or between about 42 mm and about 48 mm, or between about 43 mm and about 47 mm, or between about 44 mm and about 46 mm, or about 45 mm.

[0384] Providing a spacing or distance between the leading edge 401a' of the baffle and the substantially vertical face 505' of the step can help to avoid splashing of liquid out of the outlet port 157' when high flow rates are used.

[0385] Other than these noted features, the features and functionality of baffle 401' and associated features are the same as baffle 401 and associated features of humidifier liquid chamber 151, and like reference numbers indicate like parts with the addition of a prime symbol (').

[0386] 24 and 25, the humidifier liquid chamber includes a base 154, a top formed by a roof 156, and one or more side walls 153.

[0387] The humidifier liquid chamber 151 has a generally rounded exterior shape with smooth sides, which can make it difficult for a user to hold when connecting or disconnecting it from the respiratory assistance apparatus base unit 50, especially when the humidifier liquid chamber is filled with liquid and heavy.

[0388] To connect the humidifier liquid chamber 151 to the respiratory support apparatus base unit 50, the guard 160 is deflected downwards to allow the humidifier liquid chamber 151 to slide rearward CID towards the respiratory support apparatus base unit 50. The guard 160 protects the user from touching the respiratory support apparatus heating plate 140. Due to the weight and shape of the humidifier liquid chamber 151, and the orientation and force required to make the connection, the humidifier liquid chamber 151 will most likely be gripped by the sides.

[0389] To this end, at least two grips 601 are disposed on the side walls of the humidifier liquid chamber 151 to allow for grasping by a user. The grips 601 are disposed at an angle α with respect to a plane IP that extends through the center C of the humidifier liquid chamber transverse to the axes A1, A2 of the inlet and outlet ports 157, 159. The plane IP is an imaginary plane that extends across the humidifier liquid chamber 151 through the center C of the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0390] The angle α is between about 0 degrees and about 40 degrees relative to the plane IP. In some configurations, the angle α is between about 10 degrees and about 40 degrees relative to the plane IP. In some configurations, the angle α is between about 10 degrees and about 30 degrees, between about 10 degrees and about 20 degrees, or between about 10 degrees and about 15 degrees relative to the plane IP. In some configurations, the angle α is between about 11 degrees and about 14 degrees, between about 12 degrees and about 13 degrees, or about 12.5 degrees relative to the plane IP. The angle α is about 10 degrees, about 10.5 degrees, about 11 degrees, about 11.5 degrees, about 12 degrees, about 12.5 degrees, about 13 degrees, about 13.5 degrees, about 14 degrees, about 14.5 degrees, about 15 degrees, about 15.5 degrees, about 16 degrees, about 16.5 degrees, about 17 degrees, about 17.5 degrees, about 18 degrees, about 18.5 degrees, about 19 degrees, about 19.5 degrees, about 20 degrees, about 20.5 degrees, about 21 degrees, about 21.5 degrees, about 22 degrees, about 22.5 degrees, about 23 degrees, about 23.5 degrees, about 24 degrees, about 24.5 degrees, about 25 degrees, about 25.5 degrees, The angle may be about 26 degrees, about 26.5 degrees, about 27 degrees, about 27.5 degrees, about 28 degrees, about 28.5 degrees, about 29 degrees, about 29.5 degrees, about 30 degrees, about 30.5 degrees, about 31 degrees, about 31.5 degrees, about 32 degrees, about 32.5 degrees, about 33 degrees, about 33.5 degrees, about 34 degrees, about 34.5 degrees, about 35 degrees, about 35.5 degrees, about 36 degrees, about 36.5 degrees, about 37 degrees, about 37.5 degrees, about 38 degrees, about 38.5 degrees, about 39 degrees, about 39.5 degrees, about 40 degrees, or any value or range therebetween.

[0391] 24, the centerline CG of each grip 601 relative to the center C of the humidifier liquid chamber defines a centerline offset CO that creates a moment M due to the weight of the humidifier liquid chamber. Minimizing this offset would reduce the moment, but would increase the required diameter of the user's grip, potentially reducing usability. Thus, the described configuration appropriately balances grip diameter with centerline offset CO.

[0392] Each grip 601 is located a grip distance GD from the center C of the humidifier fluid chamber.

[0393] The grip distance GD is between about 50 mm and about 70 mm. In some configurations, the grip distance GD is between about 55 mm and about 65 mm. In some configurations, the grip distance GD is about 55 mm, about 56 mm, about 57 mm, about 58 mm, about 59 mm, about 60 mm, about 61 mm, about 62 mm, about 63 mm, about 64 mm, about 65 mm, or any value or range between these values.

[0394] Grip 601 is located on the opposite side of humidifier liquid chamber 151 .

[0395] Grip 601 extends downwardly from roof 156 at the top of humidifier liquid chamber 151. The top of grip 601 terminates at roof 156.

[0396] In the illustrated form, the grip 601 extends partway from the humidifier liquid chamber roof 156, short of the humidifier liquid chamber base 154. In that configuration, the lower portion of the grip 601 terminates above the base 154 and base flange 155, and there is an uninterrupted portion of the side wall 153 below the grip 601. This minimizes the chance that a user's hands will come into contact with the respiratory assistance apparatus base unit 50 or the humidifier liquid chamber base 154 or base flange 155 when making the connection.

[0397] Grip 601 is elongated in the vertical direction such that its vertical dimension is greater than its front-to-rear dimension.

[0398] In the illustrated embodiment, grip 601 includes an inwardly facing recess 603. In the illustrated embodiment, recess 603 is corrugated.

[0399] The contact patch formed by a user's thumb or finger within a grip recess depends on the depth of the recess, which is effectively governed by the radius of the circle that defines the recess.

[0400] 25, important dimensions of grip 601 include one or more of the radius of the recess circle GR, the diameter of the "construction circle" CC, and the angle α between the center of the recess circle and the center of the humidifier liquid chamber C. Advantageously, the dimensions of each recess are identical so that the grip feature is ambidextrous.

[0401] Increasing the radius GR of the recess circle and the diameter of the structural circle CC may result in a shallow recess, which may not be very useful functionally. Decreasing the radius GR of the recess circle may define a recess that is too narrow for the user's fingers. The change in diameter of the structural circle CC depends somewhat on the radius GR of the recess circle and vice versa, and a large discrepancy may result in a very subtractive feature, which may have a cascading effect on the liquid fill level in the humidifier liquid chamber. If the grip radius GR is too large, the maximum liquid fill level MFL may be at a different height, which may affect the required height of the lower edge 403 of the baffle 401.

[0402] The grip recess 603 has a radius GR between about 10 mm and about 20 mm.

[0403] In some configurations, the grip recess 603 has a radius GR of about 10 mm, about 11 mm, about 12 mm, about 13 mm, about 14 mm, about 15 mm, about 16 mm, about 17 mm, about 18 mm, about 19 mm, about 20 mm, or any value or range between these values.

[0404] In some configurations, the diameter of the structural circle is about 110 mm to about 122 mm, about 110 mm, about 111 mm, about 112 mm, about 113 mm, about 114 mm, about 115 mm, about 116 mm, about 117 mm, about 118 mm, about 119 mm, about 120 mm, about 121 mm, about 122 mm, or any value or range therebetween.

[0405] The smaller the angle α between the center of the recess circle and the center C of the humidifier liquid chamber, the larger the required gripping diameter. Suitable ranges for the angle α are described above.

[0406] In some configurations, the grip 601 has a substantially smooth grip surface. In some configurations, the grip 601 has a textured grip surface.

[0407] The humidifier liquid chamber inlet and outlet ports 157, 159 are located at the front of the humidifier liquid chamber. Grip 601 is located on the side of the humidifier liquid chamber rearward of plane IP.

[0408] The humidifier liquid chamber 151 is configured to engage with the liquid chamber recess 108 of the respiratory aid apparatus by sliding the humidifier liquid chamber into the recess in a substantially linear manner from the front of the liquid chamber bay (FIG. 20) towards the rear of the liquid chamber bay (FIG. 21). Alternatively, this movement can be performed laterally in the normal orientation of the respiratory aid apparatus.

[0409] Grip 601 is a two-handed grip feature that together allows for a large diameter grip with the thumb abducted. It is expected that the user will place the thumb in one recess and one or more fingers in the opposite recess to grasp the humidifier liquid chamber 151. Either hand can be used and there is no bias or difference in the shape of either recess. The grip feature is advantageously a subtraction feature that fits within the respiratory aid apparatus base unit 50, whereas an addition feature in the form of a handle or the like may interfere with the respiratory aid apparatus or increase the likelihood that the user's hand will come into contact with the respiratory aid apparatus base unit 50.

[0410] This is preferable to simply having a surface texture, which may be less effective at improving effective grip, although surface texture can also be applied to either or both recesses. Grip features encourage the user to grip the humidifier liquid chamber in a manner that facilitates port alignment and connection.

[0411] The humidifier liquid chamber may have a removable base. Figures 30 and 31 show an alternative configuration of a humidifier liquid chamber 151' having a removable thermally conductive base 154'. Unless otherwise noted below, the features, options, and functions of the alternative configuration of the humidifier liquid chamber 151' are the same as the humidifier liquid chamber 151, and like reference numbers refer to like parts with the addition of a prime symbol (').

[0412] The base 154' of the humidifier liquid chamber 151' has an annular outwardly extending flange 154a' that is substantially the same size as, or slightly larger or smaller than, the lower flange 155' of the humidifier liquid chamber body 152'. A cylindrical body 154b' extends upwardly from the flange 154a' (when the humidifier liquid chamber 151' is in an upright configuration).

[0413] A seal 154c', which may be any suitable type of seal such as, for example, an O-ring seal or a wiper seal, is received in a seal recess 154d' in the cylindrical body 154c'. The seal 154c' engages against the inner surface of the humidifier liquid chamber body 152' to form a seal therebetween and hold the base 154' in engagement with the humidifier liquid chamber body 152'.

[0414] At least one base removal feature 155a' is provided between the lower flange 155' of the body of the humidifier liquid chamber and the outwardly extending flange 154a'.

[0415] In the illustrated form, the base removal feature includes a slot 155a' provided by an upwardly stepped region of the lower flange 155' of the humidifier liquid chamber body. Alternatively, the slot 155a' may be provided by a downwardly stepped region of the outwardly extending flange 154a' of the base 154, or by both an upwardly stepped region of the lower flange 155' of the humidifier liquid chamber body and a downwardly stepped region of the outwardly extending flange 154a' of the base 154'.

[0416] The slot is configured so that a portion of a suitable instrument, such as a flat-head screwdriver blade, a flat-edged knife blade, or a portion of a coin, can be inserted into the slot and rotated or pry to separate the base 154' from the humidifier liquid chamber body 152'.

[0417] In the configuration shown, the humidifier liquid chamber 151' has two spaced apart slots 155a'. In alternative configurations, the humidifier liquid chamber 151' may have one, two, three or more spaced apart slots 155a'. The slots 155a' may also be angularly spaced apart.

[0418] Additional or alternative removal features 155a' include differences in the perimeter of the lower flange 155' of the body and the flange 154a' of the base. The flanges 155' and 154a' may not match exactly in shape, such that the lower flange 155' may have a recessed edge along at least a portion of its perimeter. This provides another way to remove the base 154 from the body of the humidifier liquid chamber; for example, with the humidifier liquid chamber 151 upside down, a user can use their thumb to press against the flange 154a' to pry the base off the body.

[0419] The base 154' may be removed to aid in cleaning of the humidifier liquid chamber.

[0420] After cleaning, the base 154' can be pressed back onto the lower edge of the body by moving the body 152' of the humidifier liquid chamber toward the base 154' in the direction of the arrow in FIG. 31 or by moving the base 154' of the humidifier liquid chamber toward the body 152' in the direction opposite to the arrow in FIG. 31, with the seal 154c' engaging the inner surface of the body.

[0421] As generally outlined above, the features shown in the figures and described above for the humidifier liquid chamber 151 can be implemented in a humidifier liquid chamber manifold 1701 for use with the alternative humidifier liquid chamber 1151, as shown in Figures 26-29, which features will not be described again in full detail below.

[0422] In the illustrated form, the humidifier liquid chamber 1151 has a lower height than the humidifier liquid chamber 151. The upstanding connection ports 1151a, 1151b (only one of which, 1151b, is shown in FIG. 29 but both will typically have the same configuration) provided in the humidifier liquid chamber 1151 are spaced further apart than the port separation distance PSD of the ports 157, 159 of the humidifier liquid chamber 151.

[0423] The humidifier liquid chamber 1151 may have a removable base, as described above.

[0424] The humidifier liquid chamber manifold 1701 includes a base unit connection 1703 and a manifold-to-chamber connection 1705 .

[0425] The base unit connection portion 1703 includes a first base unit connection port 1157 and a second base unit connection port 1159 for connection to the respiratory assistance apparatus base unit 50, the base unit connection ports 1157, 1159 defining respective axes A1, A2.

[0426] The first base unit connection port 1157 is configured to connect to a complementary chamber connection port 161 of the respiratory assistance apparatus base unit 50. The second base unit connection port 1159 is configured to connect to a complementary chamber connection port 163 of the respiratory assistance apparatus base unit 50.

[0427] The base unit connection ports 1157, 1159 are substantially parallel to one another and separated by a port separation distance PSD between axes A1, A2.

[0428] The humidifier liquid chamber connection 1705 includes first and second manifold-to-chamber connection ports 1707 , 1709 for connecting to respective ports on the humidifier liquid chamber 1151 .

[0429] The first and second manifold-to-chamber connection ports 1707 , 1709 are configured to connect to complementary connection ports 1151 a , 1151 b on the humidifier liquid chamber 1151 .

[0430] The first and second manifold-to-chamber connection ports 1707, 1709 are spaced further apart than the base unit connection ports 1157, 1159 due to the relatively wider spacing of the complementary connection ports 1151a, 1151b of the humidifier liquid chambers. However, the spacing can vary depending on the spacing of the complementary connection ports 1151a, 1151b of the humidifier liquid chambers. For example, the first and second manifold-to-chamber connection ports 1707, 1709 can be spaced apart no greater than the port separation distance PSD of the base unit connection ports 1157, 1159.

[0431] The first manifold-to-chamber connection port 1707 is in fluid communication with the first base unit connection port 1157. The second manifold-to-chamber connection port 1709 is in fluid communication with the second base unit connection port 1159. A first conduit 1711 extends between and fluidly connects the first manifold-to-chamber connection port 1707 and the first base unit connection port 1157. A second conduit 1713 extends between and fluidly connects the second manifold-to-chamber connection port 1709 and the second base unit connection port 1159.

[0432] An elbow may be formed in the first conduit 1711 and / or the second conduit 1713 due to a change from a substantially vertical orientation to a substantially horizontal orientation, or vice versa.

[0433] At least one of the base unit connection ports 1157, 1159, and optionally both, have a seal depth SD defined by the portion of the port 1157, 1159 configured to overlap with a complementary connection port 161, 163 of the respiratory assistance apparatus 10.

[0434] At least one of the base unit connection ports 1157 , 1159 is configured to interact with a seal 173 of at least one of the chamber connection ports 161 , 163 .

[0435] In the illustrated form, the connection ports 161, 163 are male connection members and the base unit connection ports 1157, 1159 are female connection members. Alternatively, the connection ports 161, 163 can be female connection members and the base unit connection ports 1157, 1159 can be female connection members.

[0436] The ratio of the seal depth SD to the port separation distance PSD is greater than about 0.25, greater than about 0.25 and up to about 0.7, between about 0.3 and about 0.7, between about 0.3 and about 0.6, between about 0.4 and 0.5, between about 0.45 and 0.5, or about 0.475. The ratio of the seal depth SD to the port separation distance PSD can be about 0.25, about 0.275, about 0.3, about 0.325, about 0.35, about 0.375, about 0.4, about 0.425, about 0.45, about 0.475, about 0.5, about 0.525, about 0.55, about 0.575, about 0.6, about 0.625, about 0.65, about 0.675, about 0.7, or any value or range between these values.

[0437] The seal depth SD is greater than about 10 mm, greater than about 10 mm and up to about 16 mm, greater than about 12 mm, or greater than about 12 mm and up to about 16 mm. The seal depth SD can be about 10 mm, about 11 mm, about 12 mm, about 13 mm, about 14 mm, about 15 mm, about 16 mm, or any value or range therebetween.

[0438] The port separation distance PSD is between about 35 mm and about 45 mm, between about 38 mm and about 42 mm, or about 40 mm ± 0.6 mm. The port separation distance can be about 35 mm, about 36 mm, about 37 mm, about 38 mm, about 39 mm, about 40 mm, about 41 mm, about 42 mm, or any value or range between these values.

[0439] At least one of the base unit connection ports 1157 , 1159 is configured to form a seal with at least two seals 175 on the complementary chamber connection ports 161 , 163 .

[0440] In some configurations, both of the base unit connection ports 1157, 1159 are configured to overlap with complementary chamber connection ports 161, 163.

[0441] In some configurations, both of the base unit connection ports 1157, 1159 are configured to interact with the seals 173 of the chamber connection ports 161, 163.

[0442] In some configurations, each of the base unit connection ports 1157 , 1159 is configured to form a seal with at least two seals 175 of the complementary chamber connection ports 161 , 163 .

[0443] The overlapping length of the base unit connection ports 1157, 1159 and the chamber connection ports 161, 163 is sufficient to provide improved protection against liquid ingress.

[0444] The base unit connection ports 1157, 1159 each have an exterior surface 1158, 1160. The exterior surfaces 1158, 1160 are the front surfaces of the base unit connection ports 1157, 1159 and are at the ends of the base unit connection ports that are distal from the humidifier liquid chamber connection 1705.

[0445] The outer surfaces 1158, 1160 are substantially planar and substantially perpendicular to the axes A1, A2 of the base unit connection ports.

[0446] The manifold may include an auxiliary port (not shown) that communicates with the interior of the manifold. The manifold may receive a sensor or may receive a gas source to function as a nebulizer.

[0447] The manifold includes a conduit clip 1715 that engages a liquid conduit for delivering liquid to the humidifier liquid chamber 1151. The humidifier liquid chamber 1151 includes a liquid refill aperture 1151c for receiving liquid from the liquid conduit. This allows the liquid level in the humidifier liquid chamber 1151 to be maintained without disconnecting the humidifier liquid chamber 1151 from the respiratory assistance apparatus base unit 50.

[0448] The humidifier liquid chamber manifold 1701 may be integrally formed as part of the humidifier liquid chamber 1151. For example, the humidifier liquid chamber manifold 1701 and the humidifier liquid chamber 1151 may be integrally formed by an injection molding process.

[0449] Alternatively, the humidifier liquid chamber manifold 1701 may be formed separately from the humidifier liquid chamber 1151 and coupled together with the humidifier liquid chamber. For example, the first and second manifold-to-chamber connection ports 1707, 1709 may be coupled (removably or permanently) to complementary inlet and outlet ports 1151a, 1151b on the humidifier liquid chamber. Such a configuration may allow the humidifier liquid chamber manifold 1701 to be retrofitted to an existing humidifier liquid chamber 1151 to enable the humidifier liquid chamber 1151 to be used with the respiratory assistance apparatus 10.

[0450] In the illustrated form, the first and second manifold-to-chamber connection ports 1707, 1709 are tapered such that when the humidifier liquid chamber manifold 1701 is oriented with the first and second manifold-to-chamber connection ports 1707, 1709 extending downward, their internal dimensions are greater at the bottom of the ports than above the ports. The complementary inlet and outlet ports 1151a, 1151b are tapered such that when the humidifier liquid chamber 1151 is resting on its base and the inlet and outlet ports 1151a, 1151b extend upward, their external dimensions are smaller at the top of the ports than below the ports. This allows the ports to engage with one another in a taper-locking manner, minimizing the chance of the manifold being accidentally removed from the humidifier liquid chamber 1151.

[0451] For example, other types of connections may be used, such as a non-tapered friction fit or a clasp.

[0452] In the illustrated configuration, the axes A1, A2 of the first and second base unit connection ports 1157, 1159 are configured to be substantially horizontal when the humidifier liquid chamber manifold 1701 is in use. In the illustrated configuration, the axes A3, A4 of the first and second manifold-to-chamber connection ports 1707, 1709 are configured to be substantially vertical when the humidifier liquid chamber manifold 1701 is in use. This allows a humidifier liquid chamber 1151 having substantially vertical ports 1151a, 1151b to be used with a respiratory assistance device 10 having substantially horizontal ports 161, 163.

[0453] It will be appreciated that the relative angles between the ports 1157, 1159 and 1707, 1709 may vary depending on the configuration of the humidifier liquid chamber ports 1151a, 1151b and the respiratory support apparatus ports 161, 163.

[0454] The manifold 1701 acts as an adapter to allow the humidifier liquid chamber 1151 (or any other suitable humidifier liquid chamber) to be used with the respiratory assistance apparatus 10.

[0455] In the illustrated configuration, ports 1151a, 1151b are male connecting members and ports 1707, 1709 are female connecting members. Alternatively, ports 1151a, 1151b can be female connecting members and ports 1707, 1709 can be male connecting members.

[0456] The humidifier liquid chamber manifold 1701 and the humidifier liquid chamber 1151 may have any of the other features described or shown in connection with the humidifier liquid chamber 151.

[0457] Although the present disclosure has been described in connection with certain embodiments, other embodiments apparent to those skilled in the art are also within the scope of the present disclosure. Thus, various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. For example, various components may be rearranged as necessary. Features of any of the described embodiments may be combined with each other, and / or a device may include one, more than one, or all of the features of the above-described embodiments. Moreover, not all features, aspects, and advantages are necessarily required to practice the present disclosure. Thus, it is intended that the scope of the present disclosure be defined solely by the following claims.

[0458] The various configurations described are merely example configurations: any one or more features from any of the configurations can be used in combination with any one or more features from any of the other configurations.

[0459] Features are described with reference to a respiratory assistance device capable of delivering heated and humidified gas to a patient or user. The device may be suitable for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The device may be configured to deliver gas to a patient interface at high flow rates (high flow therapy), particularly nasal high flow therapy.

[0460] Alternatively, the features may be used in devices for different purposes. The device may be a high-flow therapy device or a low-flow therapy device. For example, the features may be provided in a device for providing continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), which may deliver gas (humidified or other) at a lower flow rate, or in a medical gas insufflation device.

[0461] The feature may be used in a free-standing humidifier that has a housing, a recess 108 for receiving a humidifier liquid chamber 151, and a heating plate 140, but does not have a motor unit. A free-standing humidifier may receive gas from an external source.

[0462] The reference in this specification to any prior art is not, and should not be construed as, an acknowledgment or any suggestion that that prior art forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavor of any country throughout the world.

[0463] When directional terms are used herein, such as "up," "down," "front," "back," "horizontal," "vertical," etc., these terms are used to indicate and / or describe relative directions or orientations when the device is in a typical in-use position and / or with reference to a particular orientation shown in the figures.

Claims

1. A humidifier liquid chamber or a humidifier liquid chamber manifold, comprising: first and second base unit connection ports for connection to a respiratory assistance apparatus base unit, the first and second base unit connection ports defining respective axes; Including, the base unit connection ports are substantially parallel to one another and separated by a port separation distance between the axes; at least one of the base unit connection ports has a seal depth defined by a portion of the port configured to overlap a complementary chamber connection port of the base unit, the ratio of seal depth to port separation distance being greater than about 0.25; A humidifier fluid chamber or a humidifier fluid chamber manifold.

2. 2. The humidifier liquid chamber or humidifier liquid chamber manifold of claim 1, wherein the ratio of seal depth to port separation distance is greater than about 0.25 and is up to about 0.

7.

3. 3. The humidifier liquid chamber or humidifier liquid chamber manifold of claim 2, wherein said ratio of seal depth to port separation distance is between about 0.3 and about 0.

7.

4. 4. The humidifier liquid chamber or humidifier liquid chamber manifold of claim 3, wherein said ratio of seal depth to port separation distance is about 0.

475.

5. A humidifier liquid chamber or humidifier liquid chamber manifold according to any preceding claim, wherein the seal depth is greater than about 10 mm.

6. 6. The humidifier liquid chamber or humidifier liquid chamber manifold of claim 5, wherein the seal depth is greater than about 10 mm and is up to about 16 mm.

7. 6. The humidifier liquid chamber or humidifier liquid chamber manifold of claim 5, wherein the seal depth is greater than about 12 mm.

8. 8. The humidifier liquid chamber or humidifier liquid chamber manifold of claim 7, wherein the seal depth is greater than about 12 mm and is up to about 16 mm.

9. A humidifier liquid chamber or humidifier liquid chamber manifold as described in any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the at least one of the base unit connection ports is configured to form a seal with at least two seals on the complementary chamber connection ports.

10. A humidifier liquid chamber or humidifier liquid chamber manifold as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein each of the base unit connection ports has an outer surface, the outer surfaces being substantially planar and substantially perpendicular to the axis.

11. A humidifier liquid chamber manifold as described in any one of claims 1 to 10, comprising first and second manifold-to-chamber connection ports for connecting to humidifier liquid chambers, the first manifold-to-chamber connection port being in fluid communication with the first base unit connection port and the second manifold-to-chamber connection port being in fluid communication with the second base unit connection port.

12. 12. The humidifier liquid chamber manifold of claim 11, wherein a first conduit extends between and fluidly connects the first manifold-to-chamber connection port and the first base unit connection port, and a second conduit extends between and fluidly connects the second manifold-to-chamber connection port and the second base unit connection port.

13. 13. The humidifier liquid chamber manifold of claim 11 or 12, wherein axes of the first and second base unit connection ports are configured to be oriented substantially horizontally when the humidifier liquid chamber manifold is in use.

14. The humidifier liquid chamber manifold of claim 13, wherein axes of the first and second manifold-to-chamber connection ports are configured to be substantially vertically oriented when the humidifier liquid chamber manifold is in use.

15. A humidifier liquid chamber manifold according to any one of claims 10 to 14, including an auxiliary port in communication with the interior of the humidifier liquid chamber manifold.

16. A humidifier liquid chamber manifold according to any one of claims 10 to 15, including a conduit clip for engaging a liquid conduit for delivering liquid to the humidifier liquid chamber.

17. A humidifier liquid chamber manifold according to any one of claims 10 to 16, integrally formed as part of the humidifier liquid chamber.

18. A humidifier liquid chamber or humidifier liquid chamber manifold according to any preceding claim, wherein the port separation distance is between about 35mm and about 45mm.

19. 20. The humidifier liquid chamber or humidifier liquid chamber manifold of claim 18, wherein the port separation distance is between about 38 mm and about 42 mm.

20. 20. The humidifier liquid chamber or humidifier liquid chamber manifold of claim 19, wherein the port separation distance is about 40 mm ± 0.6 mm.

21. A humidifier liquid chamber according to any one of claims 1 to 10 or 18 to 20, including flow tubes extending from the first and second base unit connection ports into the humidifier liquid chamber.

22. 22. The humidifier liquid chamber of claim 21, wherein each flow tube includes an opening at or adjacent an end of the flow tube distal from a respective base unit connection port, the opening configured to direct flow and spaced from a wall of the humidifier liquid chamber.

23. 23. The humidifier liquid chamber of claim 22, wherein the opening of each flow tube faces a roof of the humidifier liquid chamber.

24. 24. A humidifier liquid chamber according to claim 22 or 23, including a baffle within the humidifier liquid chamber and between the openings of the flow tubes.

25. 25. The humidifier liquid chamber of claim 24, wherein the baffle extends downwardly from a roof of the humidifier liquid chamber and terminates above a maximum liquid fill level of the humidifier liquid chamber.

26. 26. The humidifier liquid chamber of claim 25, wherein the distance between the lower edge of the baffle and the maximum liquid fill level is between about 5 mm and about 15 mm.

27. 25. The humidifier liquid chamber of claim 24, wherein the baffle extends downwardly from a roof of the humidifier liquid chamber and terminates at or below a maximum liquid fill level of the humidifier liquid chamber.

28. A humidifier liquid chamber according to any one of claims 24 to 27, wherein the roof of the humidifier liquid chamber is sloped so that, in use, it is substantially non-horizontal.

29. 29. The humidifier liquid chamber of claim 28, wherein at least one of the roof, the baffle, and the wall of the humidifier liquid chamber is configured to direct gas exiting the opening of the flow tube associated with the first base unit connection port toward and over a surface of liquid in the humidifier liquid chamber.

30. 30. A humidifier liquid chamber according to claim 29 when dependent on claim 25 or 26, comprising substantially no dead space within the humidifier liquid chamber in use.

31. A humidifier liquid chamber according to any one of claims 21 to 30, wherein each flow tube includes a liquid ejection aperture at or adjacent the end of the flow tube distal from the respective base unit connection port.

32. A humidifier liquid chamber according to any one of claims 21 to 31, wherein each flow tube includes a gas exit aperture at an upper surface of the flow tube.

33. A humidifier liquid chamber according to any one of claims 1 to 10 or 18 to 32, comprising a step in the humidifier liquid chamber.

34. 34. The humidifier liquid chamber of claim 33, wherein the base of the step is located at least partially below the first and second base unit connection ports.

35. A humidifier liquid chamber according to claim 33 or 34 when dependent on any one of claims 24 to 29, wherein the baffle extends from the rear of the humidifier liquid chamber to a substantially vertical face of the step.

36. A humidifier liquid chamber as described in claim 33 or 34 when dependent on any one of claims 24 to 29, wherein the baffle extends from the rear of the humidifier liquid chamber towards a substantially vertical face of the step and terminates near the central axis of the humidifier liquid chamber.

37. A humidifier liquid chamber according to any one of claims 1 to 10 or 18 to 36, wherein the humidifier liquid chamber has a substantially cylindrical shape.

38. 38. The humidifier liquid chamber of claim 37, wherein the humidifier liquid chamber tapers from a base of the humidifier liquid chamber to a top of the humidifier liquid chamber toward a center of the humidifier liquid chamber.

39. A humidifier liquid chamber according to any one of claims 1 to 10 or 18 to 38, comprising a thermally conductive base.

40. 40. A humidifier liquid chamber according to claim 38 or 39, wherein the base of the humidifier liquid chamber is removable from the body of the humidifier liquid chamber.

41. 41. The humidifier liquid chamber of claim 40, comprising one or more base removal features that assist in removing the base of the humidifier liquid chamber from the body of the humidifier liquid chamber.

42. 42. The humidifier liquid chamber of claim 41, wherein the one or more base removal features are disposed between a lower flange of the body of the humidifier liquid chamber and an outwardly extending flange of the base of the humidifier liquid chamber.

43. 43. The humidifier liquid chamber of claim 42, wherein the one or more base removal features include a slot.

44. A humidifier liquid chamber according to any one of claims 1 to 10 or 18 to 43, including a shoulder between the first and second base unit connection ports.

45. 45. The humidifier liquid chamber of claim 44, wherein the shoulder extends beyond an outer surface of the first and second base unit connection ports.

46. A humidifier liquid chamber or humidifier liquid chamber manifold according to any preceding claim, wherein one of the base unit connection ports is an inlet port and the other of the base unit connection ports is an outlet port.

47. A humidifier liquid chamber or a humidifier liquid chamber manifold, comprising: first and second base unit connection ports for connecting to a respiratory assistance device base unit; Including, the base unit connection ports are substantially parallel to one another; each of the base unit connection ports includes at least two sealing portions configured to form at least two seals with a portion of the respiratory assistance apparatus base unit when connected to the respiratory assistance apparatus base unit; A humidifier fluid chamber or a humidifier fluid chamber manifold.

48. 48. A humidifier liquid chamber or humidifier liquid chamber manifold as claimed in claim 47, wherein the two sealing portions are separated by a distance of about 5 mm to about 7 mm.

49. 49. A humidifier liquid chamber or humidifier liquid chamber manifold according to claim 48, wherein the two sealing portions are separated by a distance of about 5.5 mm to about 6.5 mm.

50. A humidifier liquid chamber or humidifier liquid chamber manifold as described in any one of claims 47 to 49, wherein each base unit connection port includes an internal taper such that the base unit connection port narrows from an end of the port towards an opposite end of the base unit connection port.

51. A humidifier liquid chamber or humidifier liquid chamber manifold as described in claim 50, wherein an inner diameter of a first seal portion of the seal portion proximal to the end of the base unit connection port is approximately 0 mm to approximately 0.6 mm larger than an inner diameter of a second seal portion of the seal portion distal to the end of the base unit connection port.

52. 52. A humidifier liquid chamber or humidifier liquid chamber manifold as claimed in claim 51, wherein an inner diameter of the first sealing portion of the sealing portion is less than about 25.6 mm.

53. 53. A humidifier liquid chamber or humidifier liquid chamber manifold as claimed in claim 52, wherein an inner diameter of the second sealing portion of the sealing portion is less than about 25.4 mm.

54. A humidifier liquid chamber according to any one of claims 47 to 53, wherein each base unit connection port comprises a central axis that is at a height of at least about 85 mm from the underside of the body of the humidifier liquid chamber.

55. 55. The humidifier liquid chamber of claim 54, wherein the central axis of the base unit connection port is at a height of at least about 88 mm from the lower surface of the body of the humidifier liquid chamber.

56. 56. A humidifier liquid chamber according to claim 54 or 55, wherein the lower surface is defined by an upper edge of a lower flange of the body of the humidifier liquid chamber.

57. 57. The humidifier liquid chamber of claim 56, wherein the lower flange is configured to engage with one or more retention features in a respiratory assistance apparatus base unit to assist in retaining the humidifier liquid chamber in engagement with the respiratory assistance apparatus base unit.

58. A humidifier liquid chamber or humidifier liquid chamber manifold according to any one of claims 47 to 57, wherein each base unit connection port is cylindrical.

59. A humidifier liquid chamber or humidifier liquid chamber manifold according to any one of claims 47 to 58, wherein each base unit connection port is configured to receive a complementary port on a respiratory assistance apparatus base unit.

60. A humidifier liquid chamber according to any one of claims 47 to 59, including flow tubes extending from the first and second base unit connection ports into the humidifier liquid chamber.

61. 61. The humidifier liquid chamber of claim 60, including a baffle within the humidifier liquid chamber and between the openings of the flow tubes.

62. 62. The humidifier liquid chamber of claim 61, wherein the baffle extends downwardly from a roof of the humidifier liquid chamber and terminates above a maximum liquid fill level of the humidifier liquid chamber.

63. 62. The humidifier liquid chamber of claim 61, wherein the baffle extends downwardly from a roof of the humidifier liquid chamber and terminates at or below a maximum liquid fill level of the humidifier liquid chamber.

64. A humidifier liquid chamber according to any one of claims 61 to 63, wherein the roof of the humidifier liquid chamber is sloped so that it is substantially non-horizontal in use.

65. 65. The humidifier liquid chamber of claim 64, wherein at least one of the roof, the baffle, and the wall of the humidifier liquid chamber is configured to direct gas exiting the opening of the flow tube associated with the first base unit connection port toward and over a surface of liquid in the humidifier liquid chamber.

66. A humidifier liquid chamber according to any one of claims 47 to 65, including a step in the humidifier liquid chamber.

67. 67. The humidifier liquid chamber of claim 66, wherein the base of the step is located at least partially below the first and second base unit connection ports.

68. A humidifier liquid chamber as described in claim 66 or 67 when dependent on any one of claims 61 to 65, wherein the baffle extends from the rear of the humidifier liquid chamber toward a substantially vertical face of the step and terminates near the central axis of the humidifier liquid chamber.

69. 69. A humidifier liquid chamber according to claim 68, wherein the distance between a leading edge of the baffle and a substantially vertical face of the step is at least about 20 mm.

70. A humidifier liquid chamber or humidifier liquid chamber manifold as described in any one of claims 47 to 69, wherein the first and second base unit connection ports define respective axes, the first and second base unit connection ports being separated by a port separation distance between the axes, the port separation distance being between about 35 mm and about 45 mm.

71. 71. The humidifier liquid chamber or humidifier liquid chamber manifold of claim 70, wherein the port separation distance is between about 38 mm and about 42 mm.

72. 72. The humidifier liquid chamber or humidifier liquid chamber manifold of claim 71, wherein the port separation distance is about 40 mm ± 0.6 mm.

Images