Disinfection systems and methods

Abstract

The sterilization apparatus may include a sterilization chamber, an ozone generator configured to generate ozone, and a humidifier configured to generate moisture and fluidly coupled to the sterilization chamber and the ozone generator, the humidifier configured to facilitate mixing of the generated ozone and the generated moisture.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] (CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS) This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 458,578, entitled "Disinfection Systems and Methods," filed April 11, 2023; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 458,527, entitled "Disinfection Systems and Methods," filed April 11, 2023; and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 375,992, entitled "Technologies for Sanitizing Medical Devices," filed September 16, 2022, each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0002] (Technical field) The present disclosure is directed generally to disinfection systems and methods, and more particularly to disinfection systems and methods that use ozone. [Background technology]

[0003] Devices (e.g., masks, consumer devices, medical devices such as nebulizers, etc.) are exposed to numerous environments in which pathogens (e.g., harmful bacteria and / or viruses) may come into contact with and reside on the device. Without proper disinfection, further use of these devices after exposure may result in the spread of pathogens. Therefore, before reuse, devices may be disinfected to reduce the risk of spreading infection to the user.

[0004] One example of a medical device is a mask, which may be coupled to one or more hoses (e.g., a continuous positive airway pressure mask and hose, a respirator, and / or any other type of mask). The mask is worn on the user's face, and any hoses connected to the mask may come into direct contact with bodily fluids exhaled from the user's mouth and / or nose. These fluids may contain pathogens. Therefore, reusing a mask without proper disinfection may increase the risk of infection.

[0005] Furthermore, a hose coupled to a mask may include one or more recesses formed by spiral ribs extending at least a substantial length of the hose, and one or more pathogens may be present throughout the hose. The hose and / or mask may include one or more areas (e.g., recesses) that are difficult to disinfect. For example, a CPAP hose may include several recesses along a length of approximately 1.5 meters (m) to approximately 3 meters, and / or a CPAP mask may have difficult-to-disinfect areas around the nasal passages. Difficulties associated with disinfecting these areas may result in the accumulation of one or more pathogens that may ultimately be harmful to the user. Furthermore, in some instances, the length of a CPAP hose, while achieving the desired disinfection performance, makes it difficult for disinfectant solutions to traverse the entire length of the CPAP hose, which may also lead to the accumulation of one or more pathogens. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0006] These and other feature advantages will be better understood by reading the following detailed description in conjunction with the drawings.

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic block diagram of an example sterilization device consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 shows a schematic block diagram of an example disinfection device with humidity control consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 illustrates a schematic example of a sterilization device with humidity control configured to sterilize one or more components of a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 illustrates a simplified example operational timeline for the sterilization apparatus of FIG. 3 consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 illustrates a schematic example of an ozone generator consistent with embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 illustrates a schematic example of a humidifier consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of a disinfection device consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7A] 7A illustrates a perspective view of the sterilization device of FIG. 7 with a CPAP hose connected to the sterilization device, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7B] FIG. 7B illustrates a cross-sectional perspective view of the sterilization device of FIG. 7A, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] 8 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the sterilization apparatus of FIG. 7 taken along line VIII-VIII in FIG. 7, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] 9 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the sterilization apparatus of FIG. 7 taken along line IX-IX of FIG. 7, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9A] FIG. 9A is an exploded view of an example ozone reduction filter consistent with embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of the base region of the disinfection device of FIG. 7, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of a portion of a humidifier assembly of the disinfection apparatus of FIG. 7, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11A] FIG. 11A shows a perspective view of a liquid reservoir access consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11B] FIG. 11B shows a perspective cross-sectional view of the liquid reservoir access of FIG. 11A, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11C] FIG. 11C shows another cross-sectional perspective view of the liquid reservoir access of FIG. 11A, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11D] FIG. 11D shows another cross-sectional perspective view of the liquid reservoir access of FIG. 11A, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11E] FIG. 11E shows another cross-sectional perspective view of the liquid reservoir access of FIG. 11A, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11F] FIG. 11F shows a bottom view of the liquid reservoir access platform of FIG. 11A, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12]12 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the sterilization apparatus of FIG. 7 taken along line XII-XII in FIG. 7, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12A] FIG. 12A shows a schematic example of an atomizer having a coating consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12B] FIG. 12B illustrates an example of an insert configured to be coupled to (or formed from) an ozone inlet of the humidification chamber of the humidifier assembly of FIG. 11, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12C] FIG. 12C illustrates a cross-sectional view of the insert of FIG. 12B, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12D] FIG. 12D illustrates an example of an ozone inlet for a humidification chamber including the insert of FIG. 12B, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12E] FIG. 12E shows a cross section of an example atomizer having a recessed dimple configuration consistent with embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of the humidifier assembly of the disinfection apparatus of FIG. 7, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 shows an enlarged view generally corresponding to area XIV-XIV of FIG. 13, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14A] FIG. 14A shows a perspective view of a retainer of an atomizer, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14B] FIG. 14B shows another perspective view of the retainer of the atomizer of FIG. 14A, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 shows a bottom view of the humidification chamber and a top view of the liquid reservoir of the disinfection apparatus of FIG. 7, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 illustrates a perspective view of a wick assembly of the sterilization apparatus of FIG. 7, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the core assembly of FIG. 16 taken along line XVII-XVII in FIG. 16, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 18]FIG. 18 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the wick assembly of FIG. 16 coupled to the liquid reservoir of FIG. 15, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the sterilization apparatus of FIG. 7 taken along line XIX-XIX in FIG. 7, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 19A] FIG. 19A illustrates a schematic example of an operational timeline for the sterilization apparatus of FIG. 7, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 19B] FIG. 19B illustrates an example of efficacy outcomes using the example sterilization device of FIG. 7 implementing the example operational timeline of FIG. 19A, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 illustrates a schematic example of a disinfection apparatus consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 20A] FIG. 20A shows one example distribution of atomized water droplet sizes generated by the piezoelectric atomizer example of FIG. 20, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 illustrates a schematic example of an operational timeline for the sterilization apparatus of FIG. 20, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 shows an example of a flow diagram consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 shows another example of a flow diagram consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 shows another example of a flow diagram consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 25] FIG. 25 shows a schematic example of a CPAP device having a disinfection device consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 shows a schematic example of a disinfection apparatus with humidity control and a recirculation loop consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 27] FIG. 27 illustrates a schematic example of a CPAP disinfection system consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 28] FIG. 28 shows a schematic example of a disinfection apparatus consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 29]FIG. 29 shows a schematic example of a disinfection apparatus consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 30] FIG. 30 shows a schematic example of a disinfection apparatus consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 31] FIG. 31 shows a schematic example of a disinfection apparatus consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 32] FIG. 32 shows a schematic example of a disinfection apparatus consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 33] FIG. 33 shows a schematic example of a disinfection apparatus consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 34] FIG. 34 shows a schematic example of a disinfection apparatus consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 35] FIG. 35 shows a schematic example of a disinfection apparatus consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 36] FIG. 36 shows a schematic example of a disinfection apparatus consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The present disclosure is generally directed to a sterilization device with humidity and / or sterilization performance control. The sterilization device includes an ozone generator, a humidifier, and a sterilization chamber. The ozone generator is configured to generate ozone such that the generated ozone can be entrained in air passing through the ozone generator to create ozonated air. The ozonated air may pass through the humidifier and into the sterilization chamber. The ozone generator and humidifier may be selectively enabled and disabled according to an operating profile. In one example, the humidified ozonated air may pass from the humidifier through a medical device (e.g., a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) hose and / or mask) and into the sterilization device.

[0009] In some instances, the disinfection device may be configured to disinfect the CPAP hose and CPAP mask. For example, the disinfection device may have a disinfection rate of at least 4-Log sterilization against one or more given pathogens (e.g., viruses, bacteria, and / or any other pathogens) disposed on at least a portion of the CPAP hose and CPAP mask. 10 (at least 99.99% reduction). In one example, the CPAP hose may have a length ranging from about 1.5 m to about 3 m, a diameter of about 3.8 cm to about 5 cm, and a connection point at the distal end to which the CPAP mask is connected (e.g., removably connected). As the CPAP mask is worn by a user, pathogens may be present in greatest amounts in the CPAP mask and / or in an area of ​​the CPAP hose proximate to the connection point. Thus, in some instances, the sanitizer device may achieve a sanitization performance of at least 4-Log at the area of ​​the CPAP hose proximate to the connection point, the CPAP mask (e.g., the inner and / or outer surfaces of the CPAP mask), and / or the entire length of the CPAP hose. 10 It may be configured to be.

[0010] In some instances, the humidifier may be configured to humidify the sterilization chamber before (or after) ozone is generated. In these instances, the ozone may not pass through a humidifier before entering the sterilization chamber. For example, the sterilization apparatus may be configured to undergo a pre-humidification step, in which a relative humidity level within the sterilization chamber is achieved before ozone is generated.

[0011] The addition of humidity to ozonated air can improve the disinfection performance of the ozonated air. Furthermore, how humidity is generated (e.g., using a bubbler system, piezoelectric atomizer, nebulizer, heat source, evaporation, and / or the like) can affect the disinfection performance of the ozonated air. Additionally, or alternatively, the size of the water droplets generated by humidifiers entrained within the ozonated air can also affect the disinfection performance of the ozonated air. Furthermore, the flow rate of the ozonated air, the relative humidity of the environment, and / or the exposure time to the ozonated air can affect disinfection performance.

[0012] One exemplary operating profile may include a first period, a second period, and a third period. During the first period, both the ozone generator and the humidifier may be operated continuously. During the second period, the humidifier may be disabled, and the ozone generator may be pulsed (e.g., selectively enabled / disabled) according to a constant (or non-constant) pulse rate. During the third period, both the humidifier and the ozone generator may be disabled.

[0013] In some instances, the sterilization device, when operated according to an appropriate operating profile, exhibits at least a 4-Log sterilization effect against at least one pathogen (e.g., bacteria or virus) on objects within the sterilization chamber and / or within the flow path of the ozonated air (e.g., humidified ozonated air). 10 In other words, the sterilization device may be configured to cause at least a 99.99% reduction of at least one pathogen. In other examples, the sterilization device, when operated according to an appropriate operating profile, may achieve a kill rate of at least 6-Log for pathogens on objects within the sterilization chamber and / or within the flow path of the ozonated air (e.g., humidified ozonated air). 10 In other words, the sterilization device may be configured to cause at least a 99.9999% reduction of at least one pathogen. One exemplary method for determining whether the sterilization device will achieve a desired kill rate includes generating an inoculum having a sufficient amount of one or more pathogens suspended therein to establish that the desired reduction of the one or more pathogens has been achieved, and applying the inoculum to the object to be sterilized (e.g., a CPAP hose and / or a CPAP mask).

[0014] While the technology described herein can be used with many disinfecting solutions, this disclosure focuses on the use of ozone as a disinfecting gas. This is because ozone (O3) gas is a relatively powerful disinfectant yet can be safely used in consumer products. Due to its strong oxidizing properties, ozone can effectively kill or otherwise remove a wide range of organic and inorganic contaminants, such as yeast, bacteria, mold, viruses, other pathogens, and / or pollutants, that it comes into contact with (e.g., via oxidation). Naturally, over time and / or as it oxidizes contaminants, ozone chemically reduces to oxygen (O2), which is safe for human consumption and release into the environment. Ozone is also relatively easy to generate on-site (thus eliminating the need for storage tanks) and leaves little or no chemical residue. For these and other reasons, ozone has been identified as a safe and effective disinfecting gas for use in this disclosure. However, it should be understood that the technology described herein is not limited to the use of ozone and may be used with a wide variety of disinfecting solutions.

[0015] 1 shows a schematic block diagram of a sterilization apparatus 100. The sterilization apparatus 100 includes an ozone generator 102, a sterilization chamber 104, at least one pump 106 configured to pass air through the ozone generator 102 and through the sterilization chamber 104, an ozone reduction filter 108 configured to decompose ozone into oxygen, and a controller 110 configured to control the operation of one or more of the ozone generator 102 and / or pump 106.

[0016] The disinfection chamber 104 may include a disinfection chamber inlet 112, a disinfection chamber outlet 114, and may define a volume (e.g., a selectively enclosable volume) configured to receive at least a portion of an object 116 (e.g., a medical device). The ozone reduction filter 108 may be positioned at (e.g., upstream or downstream of) the disinfection chamber outlet 114. The ozone reduction filter 108 may be made of an ozone-porous material configured to reduce ozone to oxygen. For example, the ozone reduction filter 108 may be a reticulated foam formed from, containing, and / or coated with a material that reduces ozone to oxygen. Non-limiting examples of filter materials include activated carbon, magnesium oxide, and / or magnesium dioxide (either alone or in combination with activated carbon), although other materials may be used.

[0017] In operation, the ozone generator 102 generates ozone, and the pump 106 is configured to force air along a flow path 118. The flow path 118 passes through the ozone generator 102, into the sterilization chamber 104, and through a sterilization chamber outlet 114. The generated ozone is carried with the airflow (which may be generally referred to as ozonated air) into the sterilization chamber 104. Once in the sterilization chamber 104, the ozone acts to sterilize objects 116 present within the sterilization chamber 104.

[0018] The rate of ozone generation and the flow rate of air through the ozone generator 102 are controlled by the controller 110. For example, the controller 110 may cause the pump 106 and / or the fan 107 to generate a desired flow rate of air through the sterilizer 100. In this example, the pump 106 and the fan 107 may be operated at different speeds such that the air flows through the sterilizer according to the flow rate. In this example, sterilization performance may be improved if the pump 106 generates a different (e.g., higher) flow rate than the fan 107. For example, the pump 106 generating a higher flow rate than the fan 107 may have a flow rate of at least 4-Log 10In some instances, the controller 110 may be configured to control the sterilization apparatus 100 such that pressure and / or vacuum is generated within the sterilization chamber 104. In other words, the controller 110 may be configured to control the environment within the sterilization chamber 104 (e.g., the rate at which ozone is delivered to and / or removed from the sterilization chamber 104 may be used to adjust the amount of ozone within the sterilization chamber 104).

[0019] Varying the environmental conditions within the sterilization chamber 104 can affect the effectiveness of sterilization of the objects 116 within the sterilization chamber 104. For example, the amount of moisture in the airflow (humidity) can affect the effectiveness of sterilization. In this example, humidified air improves the effectiveness of sterilization, potentially allowing for less ozone to be generated to achieve a desired amount of sterilization (e.g., bacterial and / or viral kill rate). Less ozone generation may, for example, extend the life of the ozone reduction filter 108.

[0020] 2 shows a schematic block diagram of a sterilization apparatus 200 with humidity control. The sterilization apparatus 200 includes an ozone generator 202, a sterilization chamber 204, a humidifier 206, at least one pump 208 configured to pass air through the ozone generator 202 and the humidifier 206 and into the sterilization chamber 204, an ozone reduction filter 210 configured to decompose ozone into oxygen, and a controller 212 configured to control the operation of one or more of the ozone generator 202, the humidifier 206, and / or the pump 208. In some instances, the sterilization apparatus 200 may further include a fan 209 downstream of the pump 208 and upstream of the ozone reduction filter 210. The controller 212 may be further configured to control the operation of the fan 209. For example, the controller 212 may be configured to operate the fan 209 at a different (e.g., slower) flow rate than the pump 208.

[0021] The disinfection chamber 204 may include a disinfection chamber inlet 214, a disinfection chamber outlet 216, and may define a volume (e.g., a selectively enclosable volume) configured to receive at least a portion of an object 218 (e.g., a medical device). An ozone reduction filter 210 may be positioned at (e.g., upstream or downstream of) the disinfection chamber outlet 216. The ozone reduction filter 210 may be an ozone-porous material configured to reduce ozone to oxygen. For example, the ozone reduction filter 210 may be a reticulated foam formed from, including, and / or coated with a material that reduces ozone to oxygen. Non-limiting examples of filter materials include activated carbon, magnesium oxide, and / or magnesium dioxide (either alone or in combination with activated carbon), although other materials may be used.

[0022] During operation, the pump 208 is configured to flow air along the flow path 220. The flow path 220 extends through the ozone generator 202, the humidifier 206, the disinfection chamber 204, and the ozone reduction filter 210. The ozone generator 202 is configured to generate ozone as air passes through the ozone generator 202. When the ozone generator 202 is generating ozone, the air exiting the ozone generator 202 includes ozone entrained therein (which may generally be referred to as ozonated air). The ozonated air enters the humidifier 206, which is configured to mix or combine the ozonated air with moisture. In some instances, the ozone may be entrained within moisture droplets generated by the humidifier 206. In some instances, the humidifier 206 may be configured to selectively humidify the ozonated air. For example, the humidifier 206 may be selectively operated to allow the ozonated air to pass through it without being humidified. Such a configuration may allow the controller 212 to regulate the humidity within the sterilization chamber 204 independently of the amount of ozone. Additionally or alternatively, the humidifier 206 may be positioned upstream of the ozone generator 202 such that the humidifier 206 adds humidity to non-ozonated air.

[0023] In some instances, if the sterilization apparatus 200 includes a fan 209, the fan 209 may be configured to deliver ozonated air to the sterilization chamber 204 in cooperation with the pump 208. The pump 208 may be configured to push the ozonated air into the sterilization chamber 204 (e.g., the pump 208 may be fluidly coupled to the sterilization chamber 204 at a location upstream of the sterilization chamber 204), and the fan 209 may be configured to draw the ozonated air into the sterilization chamber 204 (e.g., the fan 209 may be fluidly coupled to the sterilization chamber 204 at a location downstream of the sterilization chamber 204). For example, the fan 209 may be configured to draw the ozonated air into the sterilization chamber 204 at a first flow rate, and the pump 208 may be configured to push the ozonated air into the sterilization chamber 204 at a second flow rate, where the second flow rate is different from the first flow rate. In this example, during a sterilization cycle, the second flow rate may be greater than the first flow rate, and during a purge cycle (e.g., after completion of a sterilization cycle), the first flow rate may be greater than (or the same as) the second flow rate (e.g., in some instances, the second flow rate may be zero) to facilitate purging of ozonated air from the sterilization apparatus 200. In some instances, the sterilization apparatus may be configured such that the sterilization chamber 204 is under pressure and / or under vacuum.

[0024] 3 shows a schematic example of a sterilization device 300 with humidity control configured to sterilize one or more components of a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine. The sterilization device 300 is one implementation of the sterilization device 200 of FIG. 2.

[0025] As shown, the sterilization apparatus 300 includes a sterilization chamber 302 and an ozone and humidity generation assembly 304 that is external to the sterilization chamber 302 (e.g., the ozone and humidity generation assembly 304 may be coupled to an exterior surface of a sidewall 316 of the sterilization chamber 302). The ozone and humidity generation assembly 304 includes an ozone generator 306, a humidifier 308, and a pump 310 configured to push air through the ozone generator 306 and the humidifier 308. The ozone generator 306, the humidifier 308, and the pump 310 are configured to cooperate with one another (e.g., to generate humidified, ozonated air) to form the ozone and humidity generation assembly 304. In some instances, a chamber relative humidity sensor 305 may be configured to measure the relative humidity of the sterilization chamber 302. In these instances, operation of the humidifier 308 may be controlled, at least in part, based on an output from the chamber relative humidity sensor 305.

[0026] The ozone and humidity generating assembly 304 is configured to be removably coupled to the CPAP hose 312 at a first end 314 such that the CPAP hose 312 is fluidly connected to the ozone generator 306, the humidifier 308, and the pump 310. The CPAP hose 312 is configured to fluidly connect the ozone and humidity generating assembly 304 to the sterilization chamber 302. For example, as shown, the CPAP hose 312 is configured to pass through a sidewall 316 of the sterilization chamber 302. As a further example, the CPAP hose 312 may be configured to be removably coupled to a fitting fluidly connected to the sterilization chamber 302. In some instances, a CPAP mask 318 may be disposed within the sterilization chamber 302. For example, the CPAP mask 318 may be coupled to the CPAP hose 312 at a second end 320, the second end 320 being opposite the first end 314. The length of the CPAP hose 312 extending between the first and second ends 314, 320 may be, for example, in the range of approximately 1.5 m to 3 m. By way of further example, the length of the CPAP hose 312 extending between the first and second ends 314, 320 may be approximately 1.8 m. An ozone reduction filter 322 may be disposed at an outlet 324 of the sterilization chamber 302. In some instances, a fan 328 may be provided to draw ozonated air from the sterilization chamber 302 and force the ozonated air through the ozone reduction filter 322.

[0027] The humidifier 308, pump 310, and / or ozone generator 306 may be arranged in any configuration relative to the sterilization chamber 302 and / or may be arranged in separate or common housings. For example, one or more of the humidifier 308, pump 310, and / or ozone generator 306 may be arranged at least partially below the sterilization chamber 302. Additionally or alternatively, and by way of further example, one or more of the humidifier 308, pump 310, and / or ozone generator 306 may be arranged at least partially along a side of the sterilization chamber 302 and / or may be separate from the sterilization chamber 302. In some instances, one or more of the humidifier 308, pump 310, and / or ozone generator 306 may be movable relative to the sterilization chamber 302. For example, if the sterilization chamber 302 is in the form of a flexible bag, one or more of the humidifier 308, pump 310, and / or ozone generator 306 may be disposed within one or more external housings and configured to be fluidly connected to the sterilization chamber 302 via the CPAP hose 312.

[0028] During operation, the controller 326 is configured to selectively control each of the ozone generator 306, the humidifier 308, the pump 310, and / or the fan 328 to control the environment within the sterilization chamber 302. For example, the controller 326 may be configured to selectively force air, ozonated air, or humidified ozonated air through the CPAP hose 312 and into the sterilization chamber 302 to sterilize the CPAP hose 312 and the CPAP mask 318. In this example, the humidifier 308 may be disabled and / or pulsed at a constant or non-constant pulse rate when the humidity reaches a desired level (e.g., estimated and / or measured), and / or the ozone generator 306 may be disabled and / or pulsed at a constant or non-constant pulse rate when the ozone reaches a desired level (e.g., estimated and / or measured).

[0029] 4 illustrates a schematic example of an operational timeline 400 of the sterilization apparatus 300 corresponding to one exemplary sterilization cycle. As shown, a first period (e.g., initialization period) 402 extends between time T0 and time T1, a second (e.g., operating) period 404 extends between time T1 and time T2, and a third (e.g., purge) period 406 extends between time T2 and time T3. Time T3 may be greater than time T2, which may be greater than time T1, which may be greater than time T0. The first period 402 may generally refer to a period during which the ozone and humidity generating assembly 304 operates to achieve desired initial conditions (e.g., within a desired humidity and / or ozone range) within the hose 312, mask 318, and / or sterilization chamber 302 (determining whether the initial conditions have been achieved may be estimated and / or measured). The second time period 404 may generally be referred to as a time period during which the ozone and humidity generating assembly 304 operates to maintain a desired condition (e.g., within an estimated and / or measured desired humidity and / or ozone range). The third time period 406 may generally be referred to as a time period during which the ozone and humidity generating assembly 304 operates to purge ozone from the sterilization chamber 302 so that any residual ozone in the sterilization chamber 302 is removed and / or within acceptable levels.

[0030] In one example, during a first period 402, the ozone generator 306, the humidifier 308, the pump 310, and the fan 328 may operate continuously or intermittently; during a second period 404, the ozone generator 306 may operate continuously or intermittently, the humidifier 308 may be disabled, the pump 310 may operate continuously or intermittently, and the fan 328 may operate continuously or intermittently; and during a third period 406, the ozone generator 306 and the humidifier 308 may be disabled, the pump 310 may operate continuously or intermittently, and the fan 328 may operate continuously or intermittently. In another example, during the first time period 402, one or more of the ozone generator 306, the humidifier 308, the pump 310, and / or the fan 328 may operate continuously or intermittently, during the second time period 404, one or more of the ozone generator 306, the humidifier 308, the pump 310, and / or the fan 328 may be disabled, and during the third time period 406, the ozone generator 306 and the humidifier 308 may be disabled, the pump 310 may operate continuously or intermittently, and the fan 328 may operate continuously or intermittently.

[0031] The lengths of the first time period 402, the second time period 404, and the third time period 406 may be predetermined or may be based at least in part on sensed conditions (e.g., in the sterilization chamber 302, the CPAP hose 312, and / or the CPAP mask 318) and / or estimated conditions (e.g., in the sterilization chamber 302, the CPAP hose 312, and / or the CPAP mask 318). Introducing humidity during the first time period 402 may make one or more pathogens susceptible to degradation by ozone.

[0032] Although the terms first, second, and third are used to describe the first period 402, the second period 404, and the third period 406, the terms first, second, and third are not intended to convey a particular order. For example, in some instances, the second period 404 and / or the third period 406 may come before the first period 402. In some instances, there may be one or more additional periods before or after one or more of the first, second, and / or third periods 402, 404, and / or 406.

[0033] FIG. 5 is a schematic example of an ozone generator 500, which is one implementation of the ozone generator 202 of FIG. 2. As shown, the ozone generator 500 includes an ozone source 502, an ozone sensor 504, a humidity sensor 506 (e.g., a relative humidity sensor), and, in some instances, a temperature sensor 507. The ozone source 502, the ozone sensor 504, the humidity sensor 506, and the temperature sensor 507 may be communicatively coupled to the controller 212 ( FIG. 2 ). For example, the controller 212 may be configured to control the operation of the ozone source 502 based at least in part on output from the ozone sensor 504, the humidity sensor 506, and / or the temperature sensor 507. The ozone sensor 504 may be configured to measure the amount of ozone in the air exiting the ozone sensor 504. The humidity sensor 506 may be configured to measure the relative humidity of the air entering the ozone source 502 (e.g., the relative humidity in the ambient environment, such as a room, in which the ozone generator 500 is located). The temperature sensor 507 may be configured to measure the temperature of the air entering the ozone source 502 (e.g., the temperature in the ambient environment, such as a room, in which the ozone generator 500 is located). In one example, the controller 212 may operate the ozone source 502 at an initial operating level based, at least in part, on the relative humidity and measure the output of the ozone source 502 using the ozone sensor 504, the initial operating level corresponding to the estimated amount of ozone to be produced. The measured output of the ozone source 502 may be used to adjust the amount of ozone generated by the ozone source 502 until the desired ozone output is obtained. In some instances, the humidity sensor 506 and the temperature sensor 507 may be collectively referred to as a humidity / temperature sensor. In these examples, the humidity sensor 506 and the temperature sensor 507 may be part of the same sensor assembly or may be separate sensors.

[0034] As shown, during operation, air may be flowed along ozone generator flow path 508 (forming a portion of flow path 220, FIG. 2). Ozone generator flow path 508 extends through ozone source 502 and ozone sensor 504, with ozone sensor 504 downstream of ozone source 502. For example, ozone sensor 504 may be downstream of ozone source 502 and upstream of a humidifier (e.g., humidifier 206, FIG. 2) and / or a disinfection chamber (e.g., disinfection chamber 204, FIG. 2). As a further example, ozone sensor 504 may be downstream of ozone source 502 and a humidifier (e.g., humidifier 206, FIG. 2) and upstream of a disinfection chamber (e.g., disinfection chamber 204, FIG. 2). As yet a further example, the ozone sensor 504 may be downstream of the ozone source 502 and the humidifier (e.g., humidifier 206 in FIG. 2) and may be located within the sterilization chamber (e.g., sterilization chamber 204 in FIG. 2).

[0035] 6 shows a schematic example of a humidifier 600, which is an example of the humidifier 206 of FIG. 2. As shown, the humidifier 206 includes a liquid reservoir 602, a humidification chamber 604, and a humidity generator 606. The humidity generator 606 is configured to drive liquid from the liquid reservoir 602 and distribute the liquid within the humidification chamber 604. For example, the humidity generator 606 may include a liquid collector 608 and a liquid distributor 610 (e.g., an atomizer such as a piezoelectric atomizer), where the liquid collector 608 is configured to transfer fluid from the liquid reservoir 602 to the liquid distributor 610. The liquid collector 608 may be an active collector (e.g., including a pump) or a passive collector (e.g., including a wick). In some instances, the humidity generator 606 may be configured to generate droplets having a droplet size (e.g., an approximate diameter or largest dimension) in a range of about 1.5 microns to about 4.5 microns (e.g., droplets having a droplet size of about 2.5 microns). In some instances, at least a portion of the humidity generator 606 (e.g., the liquid distributor 610) may be in a bottom portion 620 of the humidification chamber 604 (e.g., bounded by a bottom wall 622).

[0036] The humidity generator 606 may include one or more of an atomizer (e.g., a piezoelectric atomizer, a nozzle atomizer, an electrostatic atomizer, a centrifugal atomizer, and / or any other type of atomizer), a heat source (e.g., a boiler for generating steam), a passive evaporator, an ozone bubbler in a liquid bath, a nebulizer, a humidity pack, and / or the like to generate humidity within the humidification chamber 604. In some instances, one or more components of the humidity generator 606 may include a protective (e.g., hydrophobic) coating on at least a portion of the component.

[0037] The humidification chamber 604 includes a humidification chamber ozone inlet 612 through which air (e.g., ozonated air) enters the humidification chamber 604, and a humidification chamber outlet 614 through which air (e.g., humidified ozonated air or ozonated air) exits the humidification chamber 604 (e.g., into the CPAP hose 312). The humidification chamber ozone inlet 612 and the humidification chamber outlet 614 are positioned such that a humidifier flow path 616 (forming a portion of the flow path 220, FIG. 2 ) extends transversely (e.g., perpendicularly) to an emission axis 618 of the humidity generator 606. In some instances, air flowing along the humidifier flow path 616 may be turbulent for at least a portion of the humidifier flow path 616 (turbulence may improve mixing of the ozone and atomized liquid). For example, turbulent air flow may exist at the humidification chamber ozone inlet 612 and may transition to laminar air flow (e.g., after passing through the humidification chamber outlet 614 and entering the CPAP hose 312). In some instances, the humidifier 600 may be generally described as configured to promote mixing of ozone and moisture (e.g., within the humidification chamber 604).

[0038] 7 illustrates an example of a sterilization device 700 with humidity control configured to sterilize one or more components of a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine. The sterilization device 700 is an example of the sterilization device 300 of FIG. 3.

[0039] As shown, the sterilization apparatus 700 includes a sterilization chamber 702, an ozone generation assembly 704 (schematically shown with hidden lines), and a humidifier assembly 706. The sterilization chamber 702 includes a CPAP hose pass-through 708 into which a CPAP hose 750 (see FIG. 7A) can be inserted such that at least a portion of the CPAP hose 750 is received within the sterilization chamber 702. In other words, the CPAP hose pass-through 708 is configured to allow the CPAP hose 750 to pass therethrough. As shown in FIG. 7B, the CPAP hose 750 has a first hose end 756 and a second hose end 758, with a CPAP hose adapter 752 disposed at the first hose end 756 and a CPAP mask 754 disposed at the second hose end 758 (e.g., removably coupled to a connection point at the second hose end 758). As such, the CPAP hose 750 may generally be described as being fluidly coupled to the humidifier assembly 706 as a first hose end 756, and the humidifier assembly 706 may generally be described as being fluidly coupled to the sterilization chamber 702 via the CPAP hose 750 and the CPAP mask 754. As also shown, the CPAP hose 750 includes a helical rib 760 that extends at least a substantial length of the CPAP hose 750 and forms one or more recesses 762 (e.g., helical grooves extending at least the length of the helical rib 760). Furthermore, the length of the CPAP hose 750 may pose one or more challenges to sterilization performance. As such, pathogens may tend to collect in the one or more recesses 762 and / or along the length of the CPAP hose 750. The CPAP mask 754 may include one or more features worn by the user (e.g., over one or more nostrils) that may tend to collect one or more pathogens during use.

[0040] The CPAP hose pass-through 708 may be formed at least partially within a sidewall 710 of the sterilization chamber 702. In some instances, the CPAP hose pass-through 708 may include a pass-through open end 712. The pass-through open end 712 may be selectively closed by a sterilization chamber lid 714. In these instances, the CPAP hose pass-through 708 and the sterilization chamber lid 714 may cooperate to form a seal extending around the CPAP hose 750. The seal may be configured to reduce and / or prevent ozone from escaping the sterilization chamber 702 at the CPAP hose pass-through 708. In some instances, the CPAP hose pass-through 708 may include a first hose sensor 716 (schematically shown with hidden lines) configured to detect the presence of the CPAP hose 750 within the CPAP hose pass-through 708. The first hose sensor 716 may be configured to prevent the generation of ozone when the CPAP hose 750 is not received within the CPAP hose pass-through 708.

[0041] The humidifier assembly 706 includes a CPAP hose fitting 718 for removably connecting to a CPAP hose. In this manner, the CPAP hose fluidly connects the humidifier assembly 706 to the sterilization chamber 702. The CPAP hose fitting 718 may be configured to detect when a CPAP hose is connected to it. For example, the CPAP hose fitting 718 may include a second hose sensor 720 (schematically shown with hidden lines). The second hose sensor 720 may be configured to detect the presence of a CPAP hose 750 connected to it. In some instances, the CPAP hose 750 may be connected to the CPAP hose fitting 718 using a CPAP hose adapter 752 ( FIG. 7A ), and the second hose sensor 720 may be configured to detect the presence of the CPAP hose 750 and / or the CPAP hose adapter 752. The second hose sensor 720 may be configured to prevent the generation of ozone when the CPAP hose 750 is not connected to it.

[0042] Humidifier assembly 706 further includes a liquid reservoir access 722. Liquid reservoir access 722 is configured to allow a user to selectively refill the liquid within humidifier assembly 706. Liquid reservoir access 722 may be configured as a door, a drawer, and / or any other form of access. In some instances, liquid reservoir access 722 may include a liquid level window 724 configured to allow a user to view the amount of liquid in the liquid reservoir.

[0043] Figure 8 shows a cross-sectional view of the sterilization apparatus 700 along line VIII-VIII in Figure 7, and Figure 9 shows a cross-sectional view of the sterilization apparatus 700 along line IX-IX in Figure 7. As shown, the ozone generation assembly 704 is disposed within a base region 800 of the sterilization apparatus 700. At least a portion of the base region 800 is disposed below the sterilization chamber 702. For example, a base sidewall 801 defining at least a portion of the sterilization chamber 702 may extend between the sterilization chamber 702 and the ozone generation assembly 704, separating the ozone generation assembly 704 from the sterilization chamber 702.

[0044] Also as shown, at least a portion of the humidifier assembly 706 extends within the base region 800 and along at least a portion of the sterilization chamber 702 (e.g., the exterior surface of the sidewall 710 of the sterilization chamber 702). For example, the humidifier assembly 706 may include a liquid reservoir 802 and a humidification chamber 804, where at least a portion of the liquid reservoir 802 extends within the base region 800 and at least a portion of the humidification chamber 804 extends along the sterilization chamber 702 and above the base region 800.

[0045] The liquid reservoir access 722 includes a movable platform 806, a carriage 808 configured to removably receive the liquid reservoir 802, one or more linkages 810 pivotally coupled to the movable platform 806 and carriage 808, and an access door 812 including a handle 814 coupled to the movable platform 806. In use, a user applies a force (e.g., a pulling force or a pushing force) to the handle 814 to move the movable platform 806 from a use position to a refill position. When moving between the use position and the refill position, the movable platform 806 may be caused to slide along an insertion axis 816. When the movable platform 806 moves between the use position and the refill position, the one or more linkages 810 pivot relative to the movable platform 806 and carriage 808 such that the carriage 808 (and the liquid reservoir 802) moves along the insertion axis 816 and the coupling axis 818. The insertion axis 816 extends transversely (e.g., perpendicularly) to the connecting axis 818. As shown, the insertion axis 816 generally extends parallel to (e.g., within 1°, 2°, 3°, 4°, or 5° of) the base 820 of the sterilizer 700. In some instances, the insertion axis 816 may be described as a generally horizontal axis. As shown, the connecting axis 818 extends transversely (e.g., perpendicularly) to the base 820 of the sterilizer 700. In some instances, the connecting axis 818 may be described as a generally vertical axis.

[0046] As also shown in FIG. 8 , the flow path 822 extends from the ozone generation assembly 704, into the humidification chamber 804 via the inlet connector 824, exits the humidification chamber 804 via the CPAP hose fitting 718, into the CPAP hose 750 extending through the CPAP hose pass-through 708, and exits the CPAP hose 750 within the disinfection chamber 702 (e.g., passing through a CPAP mask 754 disposed within the disinfection chamber 702 (see FIG. 7B )). As shown in FIG. 9 , the flow path 822 extends from the disinfection chamber 702 through a disinfection chamber outlet 900, into an ozone reduction filter 902, through an upstream fan 904, and into the ambient environment. The upstream fan 904 is configured to draw air and / or ozone through the ozone reduction filter 902. In some instances, the ozone reduction filter 902 may include a filter communication system 906 configured to communicatively couple with the sterilization device 700 (e.g., to provide firmware updates, updated disinfection profiles, and / or the like). In some instances, the filter communication system 906 may be a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag.

[0047] 9A shows an exploded view of ozone reduction filter 902. As shown, ozone reduction filter 902 includes a housing 920 having an upstream housing portion 922 and a downstream housing portion 924, where the upstream housing portion 922 and the downstream housing portion 924 define a filter cavity 926 configured to receive a filter media 928 configured to reduce ozone. The upstream housing portion 922 includes an ozonated air inlet 930. The ozonated air inlet 930 may include a filter seal 932 for sealingly engaging with the sterilization chamber outlet 900 (FIG. 9). As shown, filter communication system 906 is disposed within filter cavity 926 at a location between the filter media 928 and the upstream housing portion 922.

[0048] 10 shows a perspective view of the base region 800 of the sterilization apparatus 700. As shown, the base region 800 includes a pump 1000 fluidly coupled to an ozone generation assembly 704. In some instances, a backflow prevention device 1001 (e.g., a check valve or a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) filter) may be positioned downstream of the pump 1000 and / or downstream of the ozone generation assembly 704, which may reduce or prevent water (e.g., ozonated water) from flowing into the pump 1000 and / or ozone generation assembly 704.

[0049] During operation, the pump 1000 is configured to cause air from the ambient environment to flow through the ozone generation assembly 704 to generate ozonated air. The ambient air has pre-existing conditions (e.g., relative humidity and / or any other pre-existing conditions). The pre-existing conditions of the ambient air may affect the performance of the ozone generation assembly 704. Accordingly, the sterilization apparatus 700, in some instances, may include one or more environmental sensors (e.g., relative humidity sensors) to sense one or more environmental conditions (e.g., relative humidity) and adjust the ozone generation assembly 704 based at least in part on at least one of the sensed environmental conditions. Operation of the ozone generation assembly 704 based at least in part on the sensed environmental conditions may facilitate more efficient and / or consistent operation of the ozone generation assembly 704.

[0050] As shown, ozone generation assembly 704 includes an ozone source 1002 (schematically shown with hidden lines), a relative humidity sensor 1004 (schematically shown with hidden lines), and an ozone sensor 1006. Relative humidity sensor 1004 is configured to detect the relative humidity of ambient air. The detected relative humidity is provided to a controller 1008. Controller 1008 is configured to operate ozone source 1002 according to operating parameters based at least in part on the detected relative humidity. The operating parameters are configured to cause ozone source 1002 to generate an estimated amount of ozone. However, the estimated amount of ozone generated may differ from the actual amount of ozone generated. Ozone sensor 1006 is configured to detect the actual amount of ozone generated by ozone source 1002. The detected amount of ozone is provided to controller 1008. The controller 1008 compares the detected amount of ozone with the estimated amount of ozone and adjusts the operating parameters of the ozone source 1002 if the detected amount of ozone is greater than or less than the estimated amount or outside an acceptable range (e.g., within 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 10%, 15%, or 20% of the estimated amount of ozone). In other words, the output from the relative humidity sensor 1004 is used to set the initial operating parameters of the ozone source 1002, and the ozone sensor 1006 is used to adjust the initial operating parameters to meet an acceptable ozone threshold or range. Such a configuration may allow the ozone source to more quickly reach a desired ozone production rate (e.g., steady state). The desired amount of ozone detected by the ozone sensor 1006 may be, for example, within a range of about 100 ppm to about 400 ppm. As a further example, the desired amount of ozone detected by the ozone sensor 1006 may be about 270 ppm (eg, within about 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 10%, 15%, or 20% of that).

[0051] As shown, the liquid reservoir access 722 further includes a liquid level sensor 1009 configured to detect the liquid level in the liquid reservoir 802. When the liquid level drops below a predetermined threshold (e.g., the liquid reservoir 802 is substantially empty or there is insufficient liquid to complete a sterilization cycle), operation of the sterilizer 700 may be prevented. The liquid level sensor 1009 may include one or more arms 1010. The one or more arms 1010 include a raised region 1012 configured to engage (e.g., contact) a portion of the sterilizer 700 (e.g., one or more electrical contacts for forming an electrical connection with the controller 1008).

[0052] As also shown, the liquid reservoir access 722 may also include at least one wheel 1014 coupled to the carriage 808. The at least one wheel 1014 is configured to engage with a corresponding track 1016 extending from the base 820. The engagement between the at least one wheel 1014 and the track 1016 may facilitate movement of the carriage along the connecting axis 818.

[0053] 11 shows a perspective view of the carriage 808, which forces the liquid reservoir 802 into engagement with the humidification chamber 804. As shown, the liquid reservoir 802 includes an openable refill lid 1100 configured to transition between an open position and a closed position. In some instances, the openable refill lid 1100 may be configured to open automatically when the movable platform 806 transitions from the use position to the refill position. Additionally, or alternatively, the openable refill lid 1100 may be opened by a user. Also shown, the movable platform 806 includes a track 1102 including a slot 1104 configured to slidably receive a guide protrusion 1106 ( FIG. 8 ) of the sterilizer 700.

[0054] 11A-11E show another embodiment of a liquid reservoir access 1150, which is an example of liquid reservoir access 722. The liquid reservoir access 1150 includes a carriage 1152, a movable platform 1154, and a plurality of linkages 1156 pivotally coupled to the carriage 1152 and the platform 1154. The carriage 1152 is configured to receive a liquid reservoir 1158, which is an example of liquid reservoir 802. As shown, the liquid reservoir 1158 includes a keying protrusion 1160 configured to cooperate with a keying receptacle 1162 of the carriage 1152. For example, the keying protrusion 1160 and the keying receptacle 1162 may be configured to cooperate to control the orientation of the liquid reservoir 1158 within the carriage 1152 (e.g., the liquid reservoir 1158 may be received within the carriage 1152 according to a single orientation). In this embodiment, keying protrusion 1160 and keying receptacle 1162 may have corresponding shapes that are asymmetric along at least one axis.

[0055] The carriage 1152 further includes a wheel 1164 configured to engage a corresponding track 1166. As shown, as the carriage 1152 and platform 1154 move along the insertion axis 1168, the wheel 1164 cooperates with the track 1166 to move the carriage 1152 toward or away from the platform 1154 and along the coupling axis 1170. As shown, as the carriage 1152 moves away from the platform 1154, the link coupling angle ε toward the track 1166 increases until the fully inserted position (e.g., FIG. 11E ). When in the fully inserted position, the link coupling angle ε may be 90° or greater. Such a configuration may facilitate the carriage 1152 and platform 1154 remaining in the fully inserted position. If the link coupling angle ε is less than 90°, the carriage 1152 and platform 1154 may be encouraged to move along the insertion axis 1168 away from the fully inserted position (e.g., as a result of the weight of the liquid reservoir 1158).

[0056] As shown, the multiple linkages 1156 include a forward linkage 1156a and multiple rear linkages 1156b. The forward linkage 1156a may include multiple linkage arms 1172 connected together by a connecting arm 1174. The connecting arm 1174 may increase the torsional resistance of the forward linkage 1156a, which may improve alignment of the liquid reservoir 1158 relative to the humidification chamber 804.

[0057] 11F shows a bottom view of the platform 1154. As shown, the platform 1154 includes one or more reinforcing structures 1176 extending along the platform 1154. The one or more reinforcing structures 1176 may increase torsional and / or linear stiffness.

[0058] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a portion of the disinfection apparatus 700 taken along line XII-XII of Figure 7, showing the humidifier assembly 706. As shown, the humidifier assembly 706 includes a liquid reservoir 802, a humidification chamber 804, and a humidity generator 1204. The humidity generator 1204 is configured to draw liquid from the liquid reservoir 802 and disperse the liquid (e.g., as atomized droplets) within the humidification chamber 804.

[0059] The humidity generator 1204 may include, for example, a wick assembly 1206 configured to cooperate with an atomizer 1208 to move liquid from the liquid reservoir 802 to the humidification chamber 804. At least a portion of any ozone that enters the humidification chamber 804 may be entrained within at least a portion of the liquid atomized by the atomizer 1208. The wick assembly 1206 is configured to draw liquid from the liquid reservoir 802 by capillary action and deliver the liquid to the atomizer 1208. The atomizer 1208 is configured to atomize the delivered liquid into droplets that are dispersed within the humidification chamber 804. The atomizer 1208 may be a piezoelectric (or ultrasonic) atomizer configured to generate droplets of liquid (e.g., water) in a given quantity and size. In some instances, the atomizer 1208 may be configured as an inverse piezoelectric atomizer (e.g., a stainless steel plate of the atomizer 1208 is exposed to the humidification chamber 804 rather than the piezoelectric ceramic of the atomizer 1208). For example, the atomizer 1208 may be a piezoelectric atomizer having approximately (e.g., within 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 10%, or 15%) 1,020 holes with a hole size of approximately (e.g., within 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 10%, or 15%) 3.6 microns. As a further example, the atomizer 1208 may be a piezoelectric atomizer having approximately 1,320 holes with a hole size of approximately 4.3 microns. As a further example, the atomizer 1208 may be a piezoelectric atomizer having approximately 2,640 holes with a hole size of approximately 2.5 microns. The hole size of the piezoelectric atomizer may affect the droplet size formed, and the quantity of holes may affect the quantity of droplets dispersed within the humidification chamber 804. In some instances, the hole size may be configured so that the smallest droplets have a size that does not result in Brownian motion. In some instances, the droplet size of the most prevalent droplets may be, for example, in the range of about 1.0 micron to about 3 microns. As a further example, the droplet size of the most prevalent droplets may be in the range of about 1.0 micron to about 5 microns.As yet a further example, the droplet size of the most prevalent droplets may be in the range of about 1.5 microns to about 4.5 microns. As yet a further example, the droplet size of the most prevalent droplets may be about 2.5 microns. The piezoelectric atomizer may be an ultrasonic atomizer operating at about 110 kilohertz (kHz). In some instances, the piezoelectric atomizer 1208 may have a hole size of about 2.5 microns. In some instances, the sterilization apparatus 700 may be configured such that the atomizer 1208 operates according to a self-cleaning cycle. In some instances, the controller 1008 may be configured to determine the status (e.g., functional, damaged, and / or any other status) of the piezoelectric atomizer 1208 (e.g., by measuring the voltage across the piezoelectric atomizer 1208).

[0060] The atomizer 1208 may further include a dimple 1210 configured to engage at least a portion of the wick assembly 1206. The dimple 1210 may generally be described as a protruding dimple or a recessed dimple (e.g., as shown in FIG. 12E , which illustrates an atomizer 1280 having a recessed dimple 1282 that engages with a wick 1284), where the protruding dimple protrudes into the humidification chamber 804 (as shown). Referring to FIG. 12E , the wick 1284 may have a substantially planar dimple engagement surface 1286 configured to cooperate with (e.g., engage with) the recessed dimple 1282. A more consistent engagement between the substantially planar dimple engagement surface 1286 is obtained when using the recessed dimple 1282 compared to the protruding dimple 1210, which may extend the life of the wick assembly 1206. For example, maintaining a substantially continuous force between at least a portion of the wick 1284 (e.g., the substantially planar dimple engagement surface 1286) and the atomizer 1280 in a range of about 0.02 Newtons (N) to about 0.5 N may provide improved performance. By way of further example, a substantially continuous force between at least a portion of the wick 1284 (e.g., the substantially planar dimple engagement surface 1286) and the atomizer 1280 in a range of about 0.05 N to about 0.25 N may provide improved performance.

[0061] The atomizer 1208 may be configured to operate within the environment of the sterilization apparatus 700 without failure for at least about six months to at least about five years. An example atomizer 1208 may include a protective coating applied to one or more surfaces of the atomizer 1208. The protective coating may have a coating thickness, for example, in a range of about 2 microns to about 50 microns. As a further example, the protective coating may have a coating thickness, for example, in a range of about 2 microns to about 12 microns. The coating thickness may be determined, at least in part, based on the properties of the coating and the ability of the coating to withstand high-frequency movement of the piezoelectric atomizer 1208 (e.g., the mechanical durability of the coating). As the thickness of the protective coating increases, the performance of the atomizer 1208 may begin to degrade (e.g., as a result of a thicker coating resisting vibration of the atomizer 1208). An exemplary protective coating may include a Parylene® coating (e.g., Parylene N, Parylene C, Parylene D, or Parylene HT). 12A shows a cross-sectional schematic example of a coated atomizer 1209 (which is an example of an atomizer 1208) having a protective coating 1211 having a coating thickness 1213 applied to one or more surfaces 1207 (e.g., the surface facing the humidification chamber) of the coated atomizer 1209. Prior to application of the protective coating 1211, the one or more surfaces 1207 may be prepared (e.g., cleaned) to promote consistent adhesion of the protective coating 1211.

[0062] Additionally or alternatively, at least a portion of the atomizer 1208 may be made of one or more durable materials. Examples of durable materials may include stainless steel, silver, tungsten, lead zirconate titanate, silicone, and / or ceramic materials. The durable materials and / or protective coatings may also be mechanically durable (e.g., to operate for a period of at least about six months to at least about five years without failure due to material migration when atomizing a liquid). The atomizer 1208 may also include a hydrophobic coating (e.g., the protective coating may be hydrophobic) and / or may be at least partially made of a hydrophobic material.

[0063] In some instances, if the atomizer 1208 includes a protective coating, the surface of the atomizer 1208 to which the protective coating is applied may be pretreated to promote adhesion of the protective coating to the atomizer 1208. For atomizers 1208 having stainless steel surfaces to which a protective coating (e.g., Parylene N) is applied, an adhesion promoter may be used. Additionally or alternatively, polymer adhesives, conformal coatings, optical adhesives, sealers, and / or primers may be used to promote adhesion. In some instances, the atomizer 1208 may be configured to be user-replaceable (e.g., as an atomizer module). Such a configuration may allow a user to replace the atomizer 1208 if the atomizer 1208 experiences substantial degradation or mechanical failure.

[0064] The humidification chamber 804 and the atomizer 1208 may be configured to cooperate to generate a desired mixture of atomized fluid and ozonated air to form humidified ozonated air. The resulting humidified ozonated air may be configured to have one or more disinfecting properties that are effective against one or more pathogens (e.g., viruses, gram-positive bacteria, gram-negative bacteria, and / or any other pathogens).

[0065] The humidification chamber 804 includes a bottom wall 1212, a top wall 1214, and one or more chamber side walls 1216 extending between the top wall 1212 and the bottom wall 1214. The bottom wall 1212 may include a generator opening 1215 through which at least a portion of the humidity generator 1204 extends. For example, the atomizer 1208 may be coupled to the bottom wall 1212 on a chamber-facing side 1217 of the bottom wall 1212, and the wick assembly 1206 may extend through the generator opening 1215 such that at least a portion of the wick assembly 1206 is on each side of the generator opening 1215. In this manner, the wick assembly 1206 may generally be described as fluidly connecting the liquid reservoir 802 with the humidification chamber 804.

[0066] The atomizer 1208 may be coupled to the bottom wall 1212 such that an emission axis 1218 of the atomizer 1208 extends toward the top wall 1214. In other words, the atomizer 1208 faces the top wall 1214 so that atomized liquid is directed toward the top wall 1214. The top wall 1214 may be configured to define a surface that extends transversely relative to the bottom wall 1212. In other words, at least a portion of the top wall 1214 may be sloped so that at least a portion of the top wall 1214 does not extend parallel to the bottom wall 1212. Such a configuration may encourage condensation (e.g., as a result of atomized liquid contacting the top wall 1214) to flow along the top wall 1214 and down one or more chamber side walls 1216. Encouraging condensation to flow toward one or more chamber side walls 1216 may prevent liquid from dripping onto the atomizer 1208.

[0067] The tilt angle θ (see also FIG. 13 ) defined between the top wall 1214 and a plane parallel to the bottom wall 1212 (e.g., a horizontal plane) may be, for example, in the range of 30° to 60°. By way of further example, the tilt angle θ may be in the range of 20° to 70°. By way of yet a further example, the tilt angle θ may be approximately 45°.

[0068] The humidification chamber 804 may further include a humidification chamber ozone inlet 1220 that defines an injection axis 1222 that extends from the humidification chamber ozone inlet 1220 and across the humidification chamber 804. The injection axis 1222 extends transversely (e.g., perpendicularly) to the emission axis 1218. For example, the injection axis 1222 and the emission axis 1218 may intersect at approximately 90°.

[0069] The humidification chamber ozone inlet 1220 may be spaced apart from the atomizer 1208 by a vertical separation distance 1224 (e.g., measured from the center point of the humidification chamber ozone inlet 1220) and a horizontal separation distance 1226 (e.g., measured from the center point of the atomizer 1208). Adjusting the vertical and horizontal separation distances 1224 and 1226 so that the atomizer 1208 is close to the humidification chamber ozone inlet 1220 may promote uniform mixing of the ozonated air and the atomized liquid, which may improve the disinfection performance of the resulting humidified ozonated air. The vertical separation distance 1224 may be in the range of 9 mm to 19 mm, for example, and the horizontal separation distance 1226 may be in the range of 20 mm to 80 mm, for example. As a further example, the vertical separation distance 1224 may be approximately 16 mm, and the horizontal separation distance may be approximately 30 mm. In some instances, a larger humidification chamber 804, a larger atomizer 1208, and / or more than one atomizer 1208 may be used.

[0070] The ozone inlet 1220 of the humidification chamber may include or be coupled to an inlet connector 824. As shown, the inlet connector 824 may be configured to change the direction of the flow path 822 ( FIG. 8 ). For example, the inlet connector 824 may include a connector inlet 1228 having a connector inlet axis 1230 and a connector outlet 1232 having a connector outlet axis 1234, where the connector inlet axis 1230 extends transversely (e.g., perpendicularly) to the connector outlet axis 1234. In some instances, the connector outlet axis 1234 may be collinear with the injection axis 1222. The connector inlet axis 1230 may form a connector angle β with the connector outlet axis 1234. The connector angle β may be configured so that the inlet connector 824 introduces turbulence into the air flowing therethrough (the turbulence may promote mixing of the ozone and the atomized liquid). The connector angle β may be within a range of 50° to 120°, for example. As a further example, the connector angle β may be about 90°. Figure 22 shows an example flow diagram for the inlet connector 824. Figure 23 shows an example flow diagram for a linear inlet connector.

[0071] In some instances, turbulence in the air exiting the inlet connector 824 may encourage any condensation of atomized liquid to form within the humidification chamber 804 (as opposed to, e.g., within the connected CPAP hose 750). For example, turbulence (e.g., the resulting swirling) may encourage any condensation to form on the top wall 1214 and / or one or more chamber side walls 1216.

[0072] Figure 12B shows an example of an inlet insert 1250 configured to be coupled to (or formed in) the inlet connector 824. Figure 12C shows a cross-sectional view of the inlet insert 1250. Figure 12D is an example of an inlet connector 824 including the inlet insert 1250. Figure 24 shows an example of a flow diagram for the inlet insert 1250.

[0073] The inlet insert 1250 is configured to promote the generation of turbulence and / or a fan-shaped dispersion pattern 1251 of the air (which may contain ozone) exiting therefrom. The fan-shaped dispersion pattern 1251 may have a pattern width 1253 that generally corresponds to (e.g., is approximately equal to) a radial pattern width 1255 of the atomizer discharge 1257 from the atomizer 1208 (e.g., at the intersection between the dispersion pattern 1251 and the atomizer discharge 1257). Such a configuration may promote mixing of the air and generated moisture. The atomizer discharge 1257 of the atomizer 1208 may be generally conical in shape. In these instances, the pattern width 1253 of the dispersion pattern 1251 may generally correspond to the diameter of the atomizer discharge 1257 at the intersection between the dispersion pattern 1251 and the atomizer discharge 1257. In some instances, the inlet connector 824 may be angled such that the injection axis 1222 from the inlet connector 824 extends in a direction away from the atomizer 1208. Such a configuration may increase the interaction area between the dispersion pattern 1251 and the atomizer discharge 1257. Additionally or alternatively, one or more dimensions of the humidification chamber 804 (FIG. 8) may be increased to increase the interaction area between the dispersion pattern 1251 and the atomizer discharge 1257.

[0074] As shown, the inlet insert 1250 defines an insert passageway 1252 that extends from an insert inlet 1254 to an insert outlet 1256. The insert passageway 1252 defines a passageway center axis 1258 that passes through both the insert inlet 1254 and the insert outlet 1256. The insert passageway 1252 has a passageway width 1260 that increases from the insert inlet 1254 to a central portion 1262 of the insert passageway 1252 and decreases from the central portion 1262 to the insert outlet 1256. The passageway width 1260 may be the same at the insert inlet 1254 and the insert outlet 1256. In this example, the insert passageway 1252 may have a shape that corresponds to the insert inlet 1254 rotating 180 degrees around the passageway center axis 1258 while moving linearly (e.g., over a distance of about 10 mm) along the passageway center axis 1258. In other words, the insert passage 1252 may have a twisted shape that corresponds to the shape of the insert inlet 1254 .

[0075] The insert inlet 1254 and the insert outlet 1256 may have the same dimensions. The insert inlet 1254 may have an insert width 1264 and an insert length 1266, where the insert length 1266 is greater than the insert width 1264. Such a configuration may result in the creation of a fan-shaped dispersion pattern 1251. The area of ​​the insert inlet 1254 may be approximately the same as the area of ​​the inlet connector passage of the inlet connector 824.

[0076] FIG. 13 shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of the humidifier assembly 706. As shown, the humidification chamber ozone inlet 1220 faces a different direction than the humidification chamber outlet 1300. For example, the humidification chamber ozone inlet 1220 may be disposed on a first sidewall 1302, and the humidification chamber outlet 1300 may be disposed on a second sidewall 1304. The first and second sidewalls 1302 and 1304 may be immediately adjacent sidewalls. Also shown, the humidification chamber ozone inlet 1220 and the humidification chamber outlet 1300 may be vertically separated by an inlet / outlet separation distance 1306 (e.g., measured between the center point of the humidification chamber ozone inlet 1220 and the humidification chamber outlet 1300). The inlet / outlet separation distance 1306 may be, for example, in the range of 30 mm to 100 mm. As a further example, the inlet / outlet separation distance 1306 may be approximately 100 mm. Also shown, top wall 1214 forms a slope angle λ with second side wall 1304, for example, in the range of 30° to 60°. By way of further example, slope angle λ may be in the range of 10° to 80°. By way of still further example, slope angle λ may be approximately 45°.

[0077] Also as shown, the cross-sectional width 1308 of the humidification chamber 804 may decrease in the direction of the humidification chamber outlet 1300. For example, as shown, at least one sidewall (e.g., the second sidewall 1304 including the humidification chamber outlet 1300) may include a non-linear cross-section (e.g., including one or more arcuate or angled portions). In some instances, the humidification chamber 804 may have a chamber volume in the range of, for example, 112 milliliters (mL). As a further example, the chamber volume may be approximately 180 mL.

[0078] FIG. 14 is an enlarged cross-sectional view generally corresponding to region XIV-XIV of FIG. 13 , and FIG. 15 is an exploded view showing a bottom view of the humidification chamber 804 and a top view of the liquid reservoir 802. As shown, the atomizer 1208 is coupled to the bottom wall 1212 of the humidification chamber 804 using a retainer 1400. The retainer 1400 may be formed, for example, of silicone, plastic, metal, and / or any other suitable material. The retainer 1400 includes an atomizer opening 1402 through which the atomizer 1208 may emit atomized water (e.g., distilled water or demineralized water) and one or more retainer walls 1404 configured to engage (e.g., mate with) the bottom wall 1212 and / or standoffs 1405 extending from the bottom wall 1212 ( FIG. 14B ). The one or more retainer walls 1404 may include one or more retainer wall drain openings 1406 ( FIG. 14A shows a perspective view of the retainer 1400 through which a drain path 1408 extends). From the one or more retainer wall drain openings 1406, the drain path 1408 extends through one or more bottom wall drain openings 1410 defined in the bottom wall 1212 of the humidification chamber 804. From the one or more bottom wall drain openings 1410, the drain path 1408 extends through one or more reservoir drain openings 1412 defined in the liquid reservoir 802. From the one or more reservoir drain openings 1412, the drain path 1408 may extend into the liquid reservoir 802 along the wick assembly 1206. During operation, atomized water (which may contain ozone) that condenses on the top wall 1214 (instead of exiting the humidification chamber 804 via the humidification chamber outlet 1300) and flows down one or more chamber side walls 1216 may flow along the drain path 1408 and back to the liquid reservoir 802. In some instances, the bottom wall 1212 may include a sloped region 1414 that encourages water to flow toward the retainer wall drain opening 1406.

[0079] The liquid flowing along the drain path 1408 may have ozone entrained therein. The entrained ozone may sanitize the humidification chamber 804, the liquid reservoir 802, and / or the wick assembly 1206. Such a configuration may extend the time between cleanings of the humidifier assembly 706.

[0080] As also shown, the bottom wall 1212 includes a reservoir receptacle 1416 configured to receive at least a portion of a reservoir protrusion 1418. A portion of the wick assembly 1206 extends into the reservoir protrusion 1418 such that a portion of the wick assembly 1206 contacts the atomizer 1208 when the reservoir protrusion 1418 is received within the reservoir receptacle 1416.

[0081] The reservoir projection 1418 may include one or more reservoir drain openings 1412 and one or more wick supports 1420 configured to support (e.g., contact) at least a portion of the wick assembly 1206 (e.g., a wick 1422) extending therethrough. The one or more wick supports 1420 may extend into a projection cavity 1419 defined by the reservoir projection 1418, a portion of the wick assembly 1206 extends into the projection cavity 1419, and the one or more reservoir drain openings 1412 may be defined within the projection cavity 1419. When the wick 1422 is wet, the structural rigidity of the wick 1422 may be reduced and the one or more wick supports 1420 may support the wet wick 1422 in an upright position. In some instances, when the wick 1422 is dry, there may be insufficient structural rigidity to remain in an upright position and be supported by the one or more wick supports 1420 in the upright position. The wick 1422 may be a soft or hard wick. Hard or soft wicks 1422 may each be effective, provided that the structural integrity of the wick 1422 is sufficient to maintain the desired interaction between the wick 1422 and the recess of the atomizer 1208. In some instances, for example, the substantially continuous force between at least a portion of the wick 1422 and the atomizer 1208 may range from about 0.02 N to about 0.5 N. As a further example, the substantially continuous force between at least a portion of the wick 1422 and the atomizer 1208 may range from about 0.05 N to about 0.25 N. As shown, the drain path 1408 extends between the wick assembly 1206 and the reservoir projection 1418.

[0082] In some instances, the bottom region 1424 of the humidification chamber 804, including the bottom wall 1212, may be removable from the top region 1428 of the humidification chamber 804 (e.g., to facilitate cleaning of the humidification chamber 804 and / or replacement of the atomizer 1208). In these instances, the seal 1426 may extend between the bottom region 1424 and the top region 1428 of the humidification chamber 804.

[0083] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the wick assembly 1206. As shown, the wick assembly 1206 includes a wick 1422 extending within a cartridge 1600 having a cartridge base 1602 slidably coupled to a cartridge body 1604. A biasing mechanism 1606 (e.g., a spring) extends within the cartridge body 1604 and urges the cartridge base 1602 into engagement (e.g., contact) with the wick 1422. Forcing the cartridge base 1602 into engagement with the wick 1422 is configured to urge the wick 1422 into engagement with the atomizer 1208 ( FIG. 12 ), promoting more efficient atomization of the liquid. In some instances, the wick 1422 may have a shape that generally corresponds to a surface of the atomizer 1208 configured to be contacted by the wick 1422 so that consistent contact between the atomizer 1208 and the wick 1422 can be maintained.

[0084] The cartridge base 1602 and / or cartridge body 1604 include one or more liquid pass-throughs 1608 and / or 1610. The liquid pass-throughs 1608 and 1610 are configured to allow passage of liquid from the liquid reservoir 802 (FIG. 8) to the wick 1422.

[0085] Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view of the wick assembly 1206 taken along line XVII-XVII in Figure 16. As shown, the cartridge base 1602 includes a base flange 1700 and one or more base core supports 1702 configured to support the wick 1422. The base flange 1700 may be coupled to or formed from the cartridge base 1602. The biasing mechanism 1606 is configured to engage (e.g., contact) the base flange 1700. For example, the biasing mechanism 1606 may be a compression spring configured to urge the cartridge base 1602 toward the cartridge open end 1704, through which the wick 1422 extends. In other words, the biasing mechanism 1606 cooperates with the cartridge base 1602 to force the wick 1422 to extend in an outward direction from the cartridge open end 1704 (e.g., into contact with the atomizer 1208 of FIG. 12 ). The cartridge body 1604 may include a locking receptacle 1706 configured to removably couple the wick assembly 1206 with the liquid reservoir 802 ( FIG. 8 ). For example, the locking receptacle 1706 may be configured to engage with a corresponding protrusion and / or seal on a wick coupler 1708 of the liquid reservoir 802 ( FIG. 18 ). When coupled to the liquid reservoir 802, movement of the cartridge base 1602 within the cartridge body 1604 toward the cartridge open end 1704 is limited by the wick coupler 1708 of the liquid reservoir 802 engaging the base flange 1700 (see, e.g., FIG. 18 ).

[0086] The one or more base wick supports 1702 are configured to engage at least a portion of the wick 1422. When the wick 1422 becomes saturated with liquid, the structural rigidity of the wick 1422 may be compromised. The one or more base wick supports 1702 may be configured to hold the wick 1422 in an upright orientation when saturated with liquid (and / or if the wick 1422 is not rigid enough to maintain an upright orientation when dry). Such a configuration may promote more consistent contact between the atomizer 1208 and the wick 1422.

[0087] 19 is a cross-sectional view of the sterilization apparatus 700 taken along line XIX-XIX in FIG. 7. As shown, the sterilization chamber 702 includes a sterilization body 1900 defining a cavity 1902 containing a sterilization receptacle 1904. The sterilization chamber lid 714 includes a sterilization chamber seal 1906 pivotally coupled to the sterilization body 1900 and configured to sealingly engage the sterilization receptacle 1904 when the sterilization chamber lid 714 is in a closed (e.g., operative) position. The sterilization chamber seal 1906 is configured to prevent and / or mitigate leakage of ozone from the sterilization receptacle 1904. For example, the sterilization chamber seal 1906, the CPAP hose pass-through 708, and the ozone reduction filter 902 may be configured such that the total leakage of ozone from the sterilization apparatus 700 is less than 0.05 ppm when measured 12 centimeters (cm) from the sterilization apparatus 700. In some instances, the upstream fan 904 and / or pump 1000 (FIG. 10) may be operated to maintain ozone within a predetermined range within the CPAP hose 750, the CPAP mask 754, and / or the sterilization container 1904 (e.g., by generating ozone pulses using the ozone generation assembly 704) and to maintain humidity within a predetermined range within the CPAP hose 750, the CPAP mask 754, and / or the sterilization container 1904 (e.g., without generating humidity using the humidifier assembly 706). In other words, the upstream fan 904 and / or pump 1000 may be operated to maintain a desired environment within the CPAP hose 750, the CPAP mask 754, and / or the sterilization container 1904.

[0088] In some instances, when operating the sterilization apparatus 700, the amount of ozone in the CPAP hose 750, the CPAP mask 754, and / or the sterilization container 1904 may be controlled. For example, the amount of ozone in the sterilization container 1904 may be controlled to be in a range of about 200 ppm to about 300 ppm. As a further example, the amount of ozone may be controlled to be in a range of about 100 ppm to about 400 ppm. As a still further example, the amount of ozone may be controlled to be in a range of about 120 ppm to about 200 ppm. As a still further example, the amount of ozone may be controlled to be about 285 ppm. As a still further example, the amount of ozone may be controlled to be about 160 ppm. In some instances, when operating the sterilization apparatus 700, the humidity in the sterilization container 1904 may be controlled. For example, the relative humidity in the sterilization container 1904 may be controlled to be in a range of 50% to 99.9%. As a further example, the relative humidity in the sterilization container 1904 may be controlled to be in a range of 70% to 90%. As yet a further example, the relative humidity within the sterilization container 1904 may be about 70%.

[0089] Additionally or alternatively, the speed of the upstream fan 904 and / or pump 1000 may be controlled to control the ozone generation assembly 704 to control the amount of ozone in the CPAP hose 750, the CPAP mask 754, and / or the sanitization receptacle 1904, and / or to control the humidifier assembly 706 to control the relative humidity in the CPAP hose 750, the CPAP mask 754, and / or the sanitization receptacle 1904. By controlling the speed of one or more of the upstream fan 904 and / or pump 1000, the rate at which ozone and / or humidity is delivered (e.g., via the CPAP hose 750 and / or CPAP mask 752) and removed from the sanitization receptacle 1904 may be controlled, which controls the amount of ozone and / or humidity in the sanitization receptacle 1904 and the object being sanitized (e.g., the CPAP hose 750 and / or CPAP mask 752). For example, the pump 1000 may be operated to generate a flow rate in the range of about 1.1 standard liters per minute (SLPM) to 1.6 SLPM, and the upstream fan 904 (FIG. 10) may be operated to generate a flow rate in the range of about 0.9 SLPM to about 1.6 SLPM. As a further example, the upstream fan 904 may be operated to generate a flow rate of 1.3 SLPM and the pump 1000 at 1.3 SLPM. As a still further example, the upstream fan 904 may be operated to generate a flow rate of 1.2 SLPM and the pump 1000 at 1.3 SLPM. In some instances, the sterilization apparatus 700 may be configured such that the sterilization vessel 1904 is under vacuum, under pressure, or alternates between vacuum and pressure. Having the upstream fan 904 may improve sterilization performance by operating at a lower flow rate than the pump 1000 (e.g., at least 4-Log 10 , at least 5-Log 10 , or at least 6-Log 10 In some instances, the flow rate is adjusted to achieve a desired level of disinfection (e.g., at least 4-Log) against one or more pathogens (e.g., one or more viruses, one or more gram-positive bacteria, one or more gram-negative bacteria, and / or any other pathogens) for a given amount of entrained ozone. 10) may be obtained.

[0090] 19A shows a schematic example of an operational timeline 1920 of the sterilization device 700 corresponding to one exemplary operational profile (e.g., a sterilization cycle), which is an example of the operational timeline 400 of FIG. 4. When the sterilization device 700 operates according to the operational timeline 1920, an object (e.g., a CPAP mask 754 or a CPAP hose 750) being sterilized by the sterilization device 700 will have at least a 4-Log reduction of at least one pathogen. 10 19B shows an example of efficacy outcomes using an example sterilization apparatus 700 implementing an example operational timeline 1920, where the efficacy achieved was 4-Log reduction for the listed pathogens. 10 is greater than.

[0091] As shown, a first period 1922 extends between time T0 and time T1, a second period 1924 extends between time T1 and time T2, and a third period 1926 extends between time T2 and time T3, where time T3 is greater than time T2, time T2 is greater than time T1, and time T1 is greater than time T0. The cycle time extending from T0 to T3 may be, for example, within a range of 60 minutes to about 120 minutes (e.g., within about 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, or 5%). As a further example, the cycle time may be about 90 minutes. The first period 1922 may be, for example, within a range of about 4 to about 6 minutes. As a further example, the first period 1922 may be about 6 minutes. The second period 1914 may be, for example, within a range of about 60 to about 80 minutes. As a further example, the second period 1924 may be about 72 minutes. The third time period 1926 may be, for example, in a range from about 8 minutes to about 16 minutes. As a further example, the third time period 1926 may be about 12 minutes. The pump 1000 may be configured to operate at a pump flow rate and the upstream fan 904 may be configured to operate at a fan flow rate, where the pump flow rate is different from the fan flow rate during at least one of the first time period 1922, the second time period 1924, and / or the third time period 1926.

[0092] During the first time period 1922, the ozone generation assembly 704 (FIG. 7) may generate, for example, approximately (e.g., within 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, or 10%) ozone in the range of 220 ppm to about 300 ppm, which may correspond in some instances to about 80 ppm to about 150 ppm of ozone in the disinfection chamber 702 (FIG. 7). As a further example, during the first time period 1922, the ozone generation assembly 704 may generate about 270 ppm of ozone. Depending on the travel time of the ozone from the ozone generation assembly 704 to the disinfection chamber 702, the ozone generation assembly 704 may be configured to generate a sufficient amount of ozone such that the ozone in the CPAP hose 750, the CPAP mask 754, and / or the disinfection chamber 702 is in the range of about 80 ppm to about 150 ppm. Alternatively, in some instances, the ozone generation assembly 704 may be disabled during the first period 1922.

[0093] During the first time period 1922, the humidifier assembly 706 (FIG. 7) may generate moisture that passes through the CPAP hose 750 and the CPAP mask 754 and enters the sterilization chamber 702. For example, the humidifier assembly 706 may generate moisture until the relative humidity (e.g., measured or estimated) within the CPAP hose 750, the CPAP mask 754, and / or the sterilization chamber 702 is within a range of about 65% to about 99% (e.g., within 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, or 10%). As a further example, the humidifier assembly 706 may be configured to generate moisture until a relative humidity within a range of about 74% to about 90% is achieved within the CPAP hose 750, the CPAP mask 754, and / or the sterilization chamber 702. By way of still further example, the humidifier assembly 706 may be configured to generate moisture until the relative humidity is within a range of about 55% to about 99% within the CPAP hose 750, the CPAP mask 754, and / or the sterilization chamber 702. Alternatively, in some instances, the humidifier assembly 706 may be disabled during the first period 1922.

[0094] In some instances, only one of the ozone generation assembly 704 or the humidifier assembly 706 is enabled during the first time period 1922. For example, only the humidifier assembly 706 may be enabled during the first time period 1922 so that the relative humidity within the sterilization chamber 702 reaches a desired amount before ozone is generated. In some instances, the ozone generation assembly 704 and the humidifier assembly 706 may each be enabled during the first time period 1922. For example, the ozone generation assembly 704 and the humidifier assembly 706 may each be enabled during the first time period 1922 without being enabled simultaneously. As a further example, both the ozone generation assembly 704 and the humidifier assembly 706 may be enabled simultaneously during the first time period 1922. The ozone generation assembly 704 and / or the humidifier assembly 706 may be enabled throughout the entire first time period 1922.

[0095] During the first period 1922, the pump 1000 (FIG. 10) may be operated according to an initialization pump flow rate, and the upstream fan 904 may be operated according to the initialization fan flow rate. The initialization pump flow rate may be different from (e.g., greater than) the initialization fan flow rate. For example, the ratio of the initialization fan flow rate to the initialization pump flow rate (i.e., the ratio of the initialization fan flow rate divided by the initialization pump flow rate) may be approximately 0.9. In some instances, the initialization pump flow rate may be in the range of approximately (within 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, or 5%) 1 SLPM to approximately 1.6 SLPM. In some instances, the initialization fan flow rate may be approximately 0.1 to 0.15 SLPM less than the initialization pump flow rate.

[0096] During the second time period 1924, the humidifier assembly 706 may be disabled, and the ozone generation assembly 704 may be enabled for at least a portion of the second time period 1924. For example, the ozone generation assembly 704 may be cycled between being enabled and disabled (e.g., according to a fixed or varying duty cycle). In this example, the ozone generation assembly 704 may be generally described as configured to generate ozone pulses at a pulse rate (or duty cycle). When generating ozone pulses, the duty cycle of the ozone generation assembly 704 may be such that the amount of ozone (e.g., measured or estimated) in the sterilization chamber 702 is within a range of about 80 ppm to about 150 ppm. One exemplary pulse rate for the ozone generation assembly 704 may result in the ozone generation assembly 704 being enabled for about 10 seconds and disabled for about 65 seconds. In some instances, the duty cycle may be adjusted based at least in part on the output of an ozone sensor in the sterilization chamber 702, for example. During the second period 1924, the pump 1000 and / or the upstream fan 904 may, in some instances, be enabled when the ozone generation assembly 704 is generating ozone and may be disabled when the ozone generation assembly 704 is not generating ozone.

[0097] During the second time period 1924, the pump 1000 may operate according to an operating pump flow rate, and the upstream fan 904 may operate according to an operating fan flow rate. The operating pump flow rate may be different from (e.g., greater than) the operating fan flow rate. For example, the operating pump flow rate may be greater than the operating fan flow rate. Such a configuration may promote ozone contact with one or more surfaces of the CPAP mask 754 and / or CPAP hose 750.

[0098] For example, the ratio of the operating fan flow rate to the operating pump flow rate (i.e., the ratio of the operating fan flow rate divided by the operating pump flow rate) may be approximately 0.9. In some instances, the operating pump flow rate may be in the range of approximately (within 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, or 5%) 1 SLPM to approximately 1.6 SLPM. In some instances, the operating fan flow rate may be approximately 0.1 to 0.15 SLPM less than the operating pump flow rate.

[0099] During the third time period 1926, the humidifier assembly 706 and the ozone generation assembly 704 may be disabled. During the third time period 1926, the upstream fan 904 and / or the pump 1000 may be operated according to a purge fan / pump flow rate. The purge fan flow rate may be greater than about 90% (e.g., about 100%) of the maximum flow rate that can be generated by the upstream fan 904, and / or the purge pump flow rate may be greater than about 90% (e.g., about 100%) of the maximum flow rate that can be generated by the pump 1000. The purge fan and purge pump flow rates may be configured to force a significant amount of any remaining ozone through the ozone reduction filter 902 ( FIG. 9 ) before the end of the third time period 1926. In some instances, the purge fan flow rate may be greater than or equal to the purge pump flow rate. In some instances, the purge pump flow rate may be, for example, within about (within about 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, or 5%) between 1 SLPM and about 1.6 SLPM, and the purge fan flow rate may be within about 10 SLPM and about 16 SLPM.

[0100] Figure 20 is a schematic illustration of a sterilization device 2000, which is an example of the sterilization device 700 of Figure 7. The sterilization device 2000 is configured to reduce at least a 4-Log level of one or more bacteria on a CPAP mask 2002 and / or a CPAP hose 2004. 10 (e.g., at least 6-Log 10), where the one or more bacteria may include, but are not limited to, one or more of Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus Aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus haemolyticus, Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus hominis, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and / or Enterobacter cloacae. In other words, sterilization device 2000 is configured to cause at least a 99.9999% reduction of one or more bacteria in CPAP mask 2002 and CPAP hose 2004.

[0101] As shown, the sterilization apparatus 2000 includes a sterilization chamber 2006, an ozone generator 2008, a humidifier 2010, a pump 2012, an upstream fan 2014, and an ozone reduction filter 2016. A CPAP hose 2004 fluidly connects the pump 2012, the ozone generator 2008, and the humidifier 2010 to the sterilization chamber 2006. As shown, the ozone generator 2008 is downstream of the pump 2012, the humidifier 2010 is downstream of the ozone generator 2008, the CPAP hose 2004 is downstream of the humidifier 2010, the sterilization chamber 2006 is downstream of the CPAP hose 2004, the ozone reduction filter 2016 is downstream of the sterilization chamber 2006, and the upstream fan 2014 is downstream of the ozone reduction filter 2016. In some instances, a CPAP mask 2002 may be connected to a CPAP hose 2004 and placed within a sterilization chamber 2006 .

[0102] The humidifier 2010, pump 2012, and ozone generator 2008 are external to the disinfection chamber 2006. The CPAP mask 2002 and CPAP hose 2004 fluidly connect the humidifier 2010, pump 2012, and ozone generator 2008 to the disinfection chamber 2006. The humidifier 2010, pump 2012, and / or ozone generator 2008 may be positioned in any configuration relative to the disinfection chamber 2006. For example, one or more of the humidifier 2010, pump 2012, and / or ozone generator 2008 may be positioned at least partially below the disinfection chamber 2006. As a further example, one or more of the humidifier 2010, pump 2012, and / or ozone generator 2008 may be positioned at least partially along a side of the disinfection chamber 2006 and / or may be separate from the disinfection chamber 2006. In some instances, one or more of the humidifier 2010, pump 2012, and / or ozone generator 2008 may be movable relative to the sterilization chamber 2006.

[0103] The sterilization apparatus 2000 further includes a controller 2018 communicatively coupled to one or more of the ozone generator 2008, the humidifier 2010, the pump 2012, and / or the upstream fan 2014. The controller 2018 controls the ozone generator 2008 to achieve a desired environment within the sterilization chamber 2006 (e.g., at least 4-Log 10 Or at least 6-Log 10 The ozone generator 2008, the humidifier 2010, the pump 2012, and / or the upstream fan 2014 are configured to operate according to one or more operating profiles (e.g., disinfection cycles) configured to (achieve a kill rate of 0.1% or more).

[0104] The ozone generator 2008 includes a relative humidity sensor 2020 (e.g., positioned on an inlet side of the ozone generator 2008) and an ozone sensor 2022 (e.g., positioned on an outlet side of the ozone generator 2008). For example, the ozone sensor 2022 may be positioned downstream of the ozone source of the ozone generator 2008 and upstream of the humidifier 2010. The controller 2018 is configured to operate the ozone generator 2008 according to an operating profile based at least in part on the detected amount of ozone detected by the ozone sensor 2022 and / or the detected relative humidity detected by the relative humidity sensor 2020. For example, the controller 2018 may operate the ozone generator 2008 to produce an amount of ozone detected by the ozone sensor 2022 in a range of about 200 ppm to about 300 ppm. To more quickly reach the desired amount of ozone, the controller 2018 may use the detected relative humidity to determine initial operating parameters for the ozone generator 2008 (e.g., the controller 2018 generates an estimated amount of ozone that is expected to be produced by the ozone generator 2008 for given operating parameters at the detected relative humidity and operates the ozone generator 2008 accordingly).

[0105] The humidifier 2010 includes a liquid reservoir 2024, a humidification chamber 2026, and a piezoelectric atomizer 2028 configured to atomize liquid from the liquid reservoir 2024 into the humidification chamber 2026. The controller 2018 is configured to operate the piezoelectric atomizer 2028 according to an operating profile to generate a desired relative humidity. The piezoelectric atomizer 2028 may have approximately 2,640 holes (e.g., within about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, about 10%, or about 15%) with a hole size of approximately 2.5 microns (e.g., within about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, about 10%, or about 15%), with a theoretical maximum atomization volume of approximately 22.3 picoliters (pL) of water per pulse. Such a configuration of the piezoelectric atomizer 2028 may result in, for example, the most common atomized droplet size in the range of about 2.5 microns to about 3 microns. FIG. 20A shows an exemplary distribution of atomized droplet sizes produced by one embodiment of the piezoelectric atomizer 2028, where the droplet sizes were measured at the inlet 2029 of the CPAP hose 2004 (labeled IN in FIG. 20A ) and at the outlet 2031 (e.g., CPAP mask 2002) of the CPAP hose 2004 (labeled OUT in FIG. 20A ). As shown, droplets having a size in the 2 micron to 3 micron range were most common and were present in substantially similar numbers at both the inlet 2029 and the outlet 2031. A droplet size in the 2 micron to 3 micron range may reduce the risk of condensation during a disinfection cycle (e.g., within the disinfection device 2000 and / or the CPAP mask 2002 and / or CPAP hose 2004), which may improve disinfection performance. Additionally or alternatively, in some instances, one or more condensation reducers (e.g., mesh screens) may be included to reduce (e.g., prevent) condensation of droplets during the disinfection cycle (e.g., within the disinfection device 2000 and / or within the CPAP mask 2002 and / or CPAP hose 2004).

[0106] The piezoelectric atomizer 2028 may be an atomizer with recessed dimples, and the distal end of the wick that engages with the atomizer 2028 may be substantially flat to promote consistent contact between the wick and the atomizer 2028. If the piezoelectric atomizer 2028 is an atomizer with protruding dimples, the distal end of the wick that engages with the atomizer 2028 may have a shape that corresponds to the shape of the cavity created by the protruding dimples to promote consistent contact between the atomizer 2028 and the wick. A wick for an atomizer with recessed dimples may be harder (or more rigid) than a wick for an atomizer with protruding dimples, which may improve the lifespan of the wick and / or atomizer.

[0107] Ozonated air from the ozone generator 2008 is injected into the humidification chamber 2026 transversely (e.g., perpendicularly) to the direction of emission of the piezoelectric atomizer 2028. The ozonated air may be injected such that the ozonated air has turbulent flow (as opposed to laminar flow) as it enters the humidification chamber 2026.

[0108] The controller 2018 operates the pump 2012 and the upstream fan 2014 according to an operating profile to obtain a desired environment (e.g., ozone amount and / or relative humidity) within the sterilization chamber 2006. For example, the pump 2012 may operate to generate a flow rate of approximately 1.3 SLPM, and the upstream fan 2014 may operate to generate a flow rate of approximately 1.2 SLPM. In some instances, the sterilization chamber 2006 may be under vacuum or pressure.

[0109] FIG. 21 shows a simplified example of an operational timeline 2100 of the sterilizer 2000 corresponding to one exemplary operational profile (eg, a sterilization cycle), which is an example of the operational timeline 400 of FIG.

[0110] As shown, a first time period 2102 extends between time T0 and time T1, a second time period 2104 extends between time T1 and time T2, and a third time period 2106 extends between time T2 and time T3, where time T3 is greater than time T2, time T2 is greater than time T1, and time T1 is greater than time T0. In other words, the second time period 2104 occurs between the first time period 2102 and the third time period 2106. The entire motion profile may have a duration within a range of, for example, 20 minutes to 120 minutes. As a further example, the motion profile may have a duration of approximately 72 minutes.

[0111] The first time period 2102 may generally refer to a period during which the ozone generator 2008 and / or humidifier 2010 are operated to achieve a desired initial condition (e.g., a desired humidity and / or ozone range) within the sterilization chamber 2006. The second time period 2104 may generally refer to a period during which the ozone generator 2008 and / or humidifier 2010 operate to maintain a desired condition (e.g., a desired humidity and / or ozone range) within the sterilization chamber 2006. The third time period 2106 may generally refer to a period during which the ozone generator 2008 and / or humidifier 2010 operate to purge ozone from the sterilization chamber 2006 so that any residual ozone within the sterilization chamber 2006 is removed and / or within acceptable levels. The conditions within the sterilization chamber 2006 may be measured (e.g., using one or more sensors) and / or estimated.

[0112] During the first time period 2102, the ozone generator 2008 generates ozone such that between about 100 ppm and about 200 ppm of ozone is present in the sterilization chamber 2006 by the end of the first time period 2102, the humidifier 2010 humidifies the environment within the sterilization chamber 2006 to about 70% relative humidity by the end of the first time period 2102, the pump 2012 operates to generate a flow rate of about 1.3 SLPM, and the upstream fan 2014 operates to generate a flow rate of about 1.2 SLPM. The first time period 2102 may have a duration, for example, within a range from about 1 minute to about 15 minutes. As a further example, the first time period 2102 may have a duration of about 6 minutes. During the first time period 2102, the ozone generator 2008 and the humidifier 2010 may operate continuously. In some instances, one or more of the ozone generator 2008 and / or humidifier 2010 may operate intermittently during the first time period 2102. In these examples, the controller 2018 may be configured to determine whether to operate the ozone generator 2008 and / or humidifier 2010 based at least in part on one or more sensed conditions within the sterilization chamber 2006, for example.

[0113] During the second time period 2104, the ozone generator 2008 operates intermittently (e.g., pulsed according to a pulse rate), the humidifier 2010 is disabled, and the pump 2012 and upstream fan 2014 operate to maintain a desired flow rate through the sterilization chamber 2006. The ozone generator 2008 may be operated intermittently according to a pulse rate having a fixed or non-fixed period. For example, the ozone generator 2008 may be enabled for a period ranging from 3 seconds to 15 seconds and disabled for a period ranging from 30 seconds to 90 seconds, with the ozone generator 2008 repeating cycles of being enabled and disabled for the duration of the second time period 2104. As a further example, the ozone generator 2008 may be enabled for a period of approximately 10 seconds and disabled for a period of approximately 65 seconds, with the ozone generator repeating cycles of being enabled and disabled for the duration of the second time period 2104. The enabled and disabled periods may be constant for the duration of the second period 2104, or at least one enabled period may have a different duration than at least one other enabled period and / or at least one disabled period may have a different duration than at least one other disabled period. The cycle of the ozone generator 2008 may be configured to provide an ozone level in the sterilization chamber 2006 that is, for example, within a range of about 150 ppm to about 250 ppm. As a further example, the cycle of the ozone generator 2008 may be configured to provide an ozone level in the sterilization chamber 2006 that is about 200 ppm.

[0114] During the second time period 2104, the pump 2012 operates to generate a flow rate of approximately 1.3 SLPM, and the upstream fan 2014 operates to generate a flow rate of approximately 1.2 SLPM. The second time period 2104 may have a duration, for example, in a range from about 15 minutes to about 120 minutes. As a further example, the second time period 2104 may have a duration of approximately 60 minutes. The flow rates of the pump 2012 and the upstream fan 2014 may be such that the amount of ozone and / or relative humidity in the sterilization chamber 2006 remains within a predetermined acceptable range. An example of an acceptable range may include ozone in a range from about 100 ppm to about 285 ppm, and / or relative humidity in a range from about 60% to about 99%.

[0115] During the third time period 2106, the ozone generator 2008 and the humidifier 2010 are disabled, and one or both of the pump 2012 and / or the upstream fan 2014 are operated to force at least a portion of the residual ozone in the sterilization chamber 2006 through the ozone reduction filter 2016. For example, the pump 2012 and / or the upstream fan 2014 may be operated until the amount of ozone falls below a predetermined threshold. During the third time period 2106, the pump 2012 is operated to generate a flow rate of approximately 1.3 SLPM, and the upstream fan 2014 is operated to generate a flow rate of approximately 1.2 SLPM. The third time period 2106 may have a duration, for example, within a range from about 1 minute to about 20 minutes. As a further example, the third time period 2106 may have a duration of approximately 12 minutes.

[0116] When performed by the sterilizer 2000 of FIG. 20, the operating profile discussed in connection with FIG. 21 is such that the sterilizer 2000 is at least 4-Log 10 (e.g., at least 6-Log 10 Through testing, deviations in relative humidity (amount and manner produced), ozone amount, and flow rate of pump 2012 and upstream fan 2014 from those described in connection with Figures 20 and 21 result in a kill rate of 4-Log 10 It was determined that this could result in a kill rate of less than 100 mg / kg.

[0117] 25 shows a schematic example of a CPAP device 2500 having a sterilization device 2502. The sterilization device 2502 may be integrated with the CPAP device 2500 or may be separate from the CPAP device 2500. The CPAP device 2500 includes an air pump 2504, a CPAP water reservoir 2506, an ambient air inlet 2508 fluidly connected to the air pump 2504, an air outlet 2510 fluidly connected to the air inlet 2508, a CPAP hose 2512 fluidly connected to the air outlet 2510, and a CPAP mask 2514 fluidly connected to the CPAP hose 2512.

[0118] The CPAP device 2500 may have an operating mode and a disinfecting mode. In the operating mode, the air pump 2504 forces air from the environment through the CPAP hose 2512. The CPAP water reservoir 2506 is configured to add humidity to the air flowing through the CPAP device 2500.

[0119] In the disinfection mode, the CPAP device 2500 may enable the disinfection device 2502 to flow humidified ozonated air through at least the CPAP hose 2512 and the CPAP mask 2514. In some instances, the humidified ozonated air may additionally flow through the CPAP water reservoir 2506. The humidified ozonated air may be generated and flowed in a manner consistent with any of the embodiments discussed herein. Thus, for the sake of brevity, a detailed discussion of the generation and flow of humidified ozonated air in the context of FIG. 25 is omitted.

[0120] When the disinfection mode is enabled, the CPAP device 2500 may be configured to transition to a closed system. For example, the ambient air inlet 2508 may be closed (e.g., sealed) to substantially prevent leakage of ozone from the ambient air inlet, and the CPAP mask 2514 may be placed in a disinfection chamber 2516. The disinfection chamber 2516 may be coupled to the CPAP device 2500 or may be separate from the CPAP device 2500. For example, the disinfection chamber 2516 may be a disposable (or reusable) flexible bag that is impermeable to ozone.

[0121] In some instances, any water in the CPAP water reservoir 2506 may be emptied before initiating the disinfection mode. For example, the disinfection device 2502 may include a water pump 2518 configured to transfer water from the CPAP water reservoir 2506. In this example, the water pump 2518 may transfer water to the disinfection water reservoir 2520 of the disinfection device 2502 so that the water may be used to humidify the ozonated air during the disinfection mode. In some instances, upon completion of the disinfection mode, the water in the disinfection water reservoir 2520 may be returned to the CPAP water reservoir 2506. Because ozone may be entrained in the water while in the disinfection water reservoir 2520, at least a portion of any pathogens in the water may be killed. In some instances, the CPAP water reservoir 2506 may be used as the disinfection water reservoir 2520.

[0122] 26 is a schematic example of a sterilizer 2600 with humidity control and a recirculation loop. The sterilizer 2600 is an example of the sterilizer 200 of FIG.

[0123] The sterilization apparatus 2600 includes an ozone generator 2602, a sterilization chamber 2604, and a humidifier 2606. As shown, a flow path 2608 extends through the ozone generator 2602, through the humidifier 2606, and into the sterilization chamber 2604. The sterilization chamber 2604 may include one or more valves (e.g., a first valve 2610 and / or a second valve 2612). In some instances, the one or more valves may be two-way valves, three-way valves, four-way valves, and / or any other valve configuration. For example, as shown, the first valve 2610 is a two-way valve and the second valve 2612 is a two-way valve. In this example, a first valve 2610 is configured to selectively fluidly connect the flow path 2608 to a sterilization chamber outlet 2614 (which may include an ozone reducing filter), and a second valve 2612 may selectively fluidly connect the flow path 2608 to an inlet side of the ozone generator 2602 (selectively creating a recirculation loop 2616). A controller 2618 may be configured to selectively actuate the first and second valves 2610 and 2612 such that the recirculation loop 2616 may be selectively created during a sterilization cycle. The controller 2618 may further control a fan 2620 to flow ozonated air along the flow path 2608.

[0124] 27 is a schematic example of a CPAP sanitization system 2700 having a sanitizer 2702, a CPAP machine 2704, a CPAP hose 2706 connected to the CPAP machine 2704 via a sanitizer adapter 2708, and a CPAP mask 2710 connected to the CPAP hose 2706. The sanitizer 2702 is an example of the sanitizer 2600 of FIG.

[0125] The disinfection adapter 2708 is configured to fluidly connect the CPAP hose 2706 and the CPAP mask 2710 to the sterilization device 2702 and to fluidly connect the CPAP hose 2706 and the CPAP mask 2710 to the CPAP machine 2704. Thus, a user may not need to remove the CPAP hose 2706 from the CPAP machine 2704 when disinfecting the CPAP hose 2706 and / or the CPAP mask 2710. In some instances, the disinfection adapter 2708 may include an adapter valve 2711 configured to selectively alter a flow path through the disinfection adapter 2708 (e.g., between a user mode in which the CPAP machine 2704 is fluidly connected to the CPAP hose 2706 through the disinfection adapter 2708 and a disinfection mode in which the disinfection device 2702 is fluidly connected to the CPAP hose 2706 through the disinfection adapter 2708). Such a configuration may substantially prevent ozone generated by the sterilization device 2702 from entering the CPAP machine 2704. In some instances, the CPAP machine 2704 may be operated during a disinfection cycle to substantially prevent ozone from entering the CPAP machine 2704.

[0126] The sterilization device 2702 includes an ozone generator 2712, a sterilization chamber 2714 configured to receive at least a portion of the CPAP hose 2706 and / or CPAP mask 2710, and a humidifier 2716. As shown, a flow path 2718 extends through the ozone generator 2712, through the humidifier 2716, through the CPAP hose 2706 and the CPAP mask 2710, and into the sterilization chamber 2714. The sterilization chamber 2714 may include one or more valves (e.g., a first valve 2720 and / or a second valve 2722). In some instances, the one or more valves may be two-way valves, three-way valves, four-way valves, and / or any other valve configuration. For example, as shown, the first valve 2720 is a two-way valve and the second valve 2722 is a two-way valve. In this example, a first valve 2720 is configured to selectively fluidly connect the flow path 2718 to a sterilization chamber outlet 2724 (which may include an ozone reducing filter), and a second valve 2722 may selectively fluidly connect the flow path 2718 to an inlet side of the ozone generator 2712 (selectively creating a recirculation loop 2726). A controller 2728 may be configured to selectively actuate the first and second valves 2720 and 2722 such that the recirculation loop 2726 may be selectively created during a sterilization cycle. The controller 2728 may further control a fan 2730 such that ozonated air flows along the flow path 2718.

[0127] FIG. 28 shows a schematic example of a sterilization apparatus 2800, which is an example of the sterilization apparatus 200 of FIG.

[0128] The sterilization device 2800 includes an ozone generator 2802, a sterilization chamber 2804, and a humidifier 2806. The sterilization chamber 2804 is configured to receive a CPAP mask 2808 and / or a CPAP hose 2810. For example, the sterilization chamber 2804 may include a mask mount 2812. The mask mount 2812 is fluidly connected to the ozone generator 2802 and the humidifier 2806 and may be configured to removably connect to the CPAP mask 2808. As shown, the mask mount 2812 is downstream of the ozone generator 2802 and the humidifier 2806 and upstream of the CPAP hose 2810. In this manner, the ozonated air (e.g., humidified ozonated air) contacts the CPAP mask 2808 before contacting the CPAP hose 2810. Such a configuration may improve sterilization at the CPAP mask 2808.

[0129] As shown, the flow path 2814 extends through the ozone generator 2802, through the humidifier 2806, through the mask mount 2812, the CPAP mask 2808, and the CPAP hose 2810 into the sterilization chamber 2804. Upon entering the sterilization chamber 2804, the ozonated air may be recirculated or passed through the sterilization chamber outlet 2816.

[0130] FIG. 29 shows a schematic example of a sterilization apparatus 2900, which is an example of the sterilization apparatus 200 of FIG.

[0131] The sterilization device 2900 includes an ozone generator 2902, a sterilization chamber 2904, and a humidifier 2906. The sterilization chamber 2904 is configured to receive a CPAP mask 2908. A first hose fitting 2910 and a second hose fitting 2912 are fluidly connected to the sterilization chamber 2904 such that a CPAP hose 2914 external to the sterilization chamber 2904 can be fluidly connected to the sterilization chamber 2904. The first and second hose fittings 2910 and 2912 may be configured to detect whether a CPAP hose 2914 is connected thereto so as to prevent the sterilization device 2900 from performing a sterilization cycle when the CPAP hose 2914 is not connected to both the first and second hose fittings 2910 and 2912.

[0132] The sterilization chamber 2904 may include a mask mount 2916. The mask mount 2916 is fluidly connected to the ozone generator 2902 and the humidifier 2906 and may be configured to removably connect to the CPAP mask 2908. As shown, the mask mount 2916 is downstream of the ozone generator 2902 and the humidifier 2906 and upstream of the CPAP hose 2914. In this manner, the ozonated air (e.g., humidified ozonated air) contacts the CPAP mask 2908 before contacting the CPAP hose 2914. Such a configuration may improve sterilization at the CPAP mask 2908.

[0133] As shown, a flow path 2918 extends through the ozone generator 2902, through the humidifier 2906, through the mask mount 2916 and the CPAP mask 2908, and into the sterilization chamber 2904. Upon entering the sterilization chamber 2904, the ozonated air may be forced (e.g., using a fan 2920) to pass through the CPAP hose 2914. After passing through the CPAP hose 2914, the ozonated air may be recirculated or may pass through a sterilization chamber outlet 2922.

[0134] FIG. 30 shows a schematic example of a disinfection apparatus 3000, which is an example of the disinfection apparatus 200 of FIG.

[0135] The sterilization device 3000 includes an ozone generator 3002, a sterilization chamber 3004, and a humidifier 3006. The sterilization chamber 3004 is configured to receive a CPAP mask 3008. The hose fitting 3010 and the hose pass-through 3012 are fluidly connected to the sterilization chamber 3004 such that at least a portion of the CPAP hose 3014 is external to the sterilization chamber 3004 and at least a portion of the CPAP hose 3014 is disposed within the sterilization chamber 3004 while being fluidly connected to the sterilization chamber 3004. The hose fitting 3010 and the hose pass-through 3012 may be configured to detect whether a CPAP hose 3014 is connected thereto so as to prevent the sterilization device 3000 from performing a sterilization cycle when the CPAP hose 3014 is not connected to both the hose fitting 3010 and the hose pass-through 3012.

[0136] The sterilization chamber 3004 may include a mask mount 3016. The mask mount 3016 is fluidly connected to the ozone generator 3002 and the humidifier 3006 and may be configured to removably connect to the CPAP mask 3008. As shown, the mask mount 3016 is downstream of the ozone generator 3002 and the humidifier 3006 and upstream of the CPAP hose 3014. In this manner, the ozonated air (e.g., humidified ozonated air) contacts the CPAP mask 3008 before contacting the CPAP hose 3014. Such a configuration may improve disinfection at the CPAP mask 3008.

[0137] As shown, the flow path 3018 extends through the ozone generator 3002, through the humidifier 3006, through the mask mount 3016, the CPAP mask 3008, and into the sterilization chamber 3004 via the CPAP hose 3014. After passing through the CPAP hose 3014, the ozonated air may be recirculated or passed through the sterilization chamber outlet 3020.

[0138] FIG. 31 shows a schematic example of a sterilization apparatus 3100, which is an example of the sterilization apparatus 200 of FIG.

[0139] The sterilization apparatus 3100 includes an ozone generator 3102, a sterilization chamber 3104, and a humidifier 3106. The humidifier 3106 includes a water chamber 3108 and a bubbler 3110 within the water chamber 3108 configured to bubble ozonated air through water within the water chamber 3108. Bubbling the ozonated air through the water may result in humidification of the ozonated air. The humidified ozonated air may enter the sterilization chamber 3104.

[0140] FIG. 32 shows a schematic example of a sterilization apparatus 3200, which is an example of the sterilization apparatus 200 of FIG.

[0141] The sterilization apparatus 3200 includes an ozone generator 3202, a sterilization chamber 3204, and a humidifier 3206. The humidifier 3206 includes a water chamber 3208, an atomizer nozzle 3210 fluidly connected to the water chamber 3208, and a humidification chamber 3212. The atomizer nozzle 3210 is configured to emit atomized water into the humidification chamber 3212 in a direction transverse (e.g., perpendicular) to the flow of ozonated air entering the humidification chamber 3212 to humidify the ozonated air. The humidified ozonated air may enter the sterilization chamber 3204.

[0142] Figure 33 shows a schematic example of a sterilization apparatus 3300, which is an example of the sterilization apparatus 200 of Figure 2. As shown, the sterilization apparatus 3300 includes an ozone generator 3302, a sterilization chamber 3304, and a humidifier 3306. At least a portion of the humidifier 3306 is disposed within the sterilization chamber 3304. As such, the humidifier 3306 may be configured to emit humidified air and / or humidified ozonated air directly into the sterilization chamber 3304.

[0143] 34 shows a schematic example of a sterilization apparatus 3400, which is an example of the sterilization apparatus 200 of FIG. 2. As shown, the sterilization apparatus 3400 includes an ozone generator 3402, a sterilization chamber 3404, and a humidifier 3406. As shown, the humidifier 3406 may be separate from one or more of the sterilization chamber 3404 and / or the ozone generator 3402. Such a configuration may allow, for example, the humidifier 3406 to be moved independently of one or more of the sterilization chamber 3404 and / or the ozone generator 3402. In some instances, such a configuration may allow the humidifier 3406 to be used as a module in a sterilization apparatus 3400 that does not have a humidifier.

[0144] In some instances, the ozone generator 3402 and humidifier 3406 may be coupled together and separate from the sterilization chamber 3404. Such a configuration may allow the ozone generator 3402 and humidifier 3406 to be moved independently of the sterilization chamber 3404. In these examples, the sterilization chamber 3404 may be collapsible or compressible (e.g., a flexible bag).

[0145] Figure 35 shows a schematic example of a sterilizer 3500, which is an example of the sterilizer 200 of Figure 2. As shown, the sterilizer 3500 includes an ozone generator 3502, a sterilization chamber 3504, and a humidifier 3506. As shown, the humidifier 3506 includes multiple humidity generators 3508 (e.g., multiple atomizers and associated wicks).

[0146] 36 shows a schematic example of a sterilization apparatus 3600. As shown, the sterilization apparatus includes a sterilization chamber 3602, a humidifier 3604, and an electrolytic cell 3606. The humidifier 3604 includes a liquid reservoir 3608, a humidification chamber 3610, and a humidity generator 3612 configured to generate humidity within the humidification chamber 3610. The electrolytic cell 3606 is configured to generate hypochlorous acid and emit the hypochlorous acid into the humidification chamber 3610 to mix with the humidity generated by the humidity generator 3612. For example, the humidity generator 3612 may be configured to emit atomized water into the humidification chamber 3610, and the electrolytic cell 3606 may be configured to emit atomized hypochlorous acid into the humidification chamber 3610 such that the atomized water and the atomized hypochlorous acid mix. The electrolytic cell 3606 may be upstream or downstream of the humidity generator 3612 and / or the humidification chamber 3610. Combining the hypochlorous acid with humidity may be accomplished in a manner similar to that discussed herein with respect to ozone. Thus, in some instances, one or more of the ozone-based embodiments disclosed herein may use the electrolytic cell 3606 in place of (or in addition to) an ozone generator.

[0147] As shown, electrolysis cell 3606 includes an anode 3614 and a cathode 3616 separated by an anode-cathode separation distance 3618. Anode-cathode separation distance 3618 can be, for example, within a range of about 1 mm to about 10 mm. By way of further example, anode-cathode separation distance 3618 can be within a range of about 2 mm to about 4 mm. The proximity of anode 3614 to cathode 3616 can promote the production of hypochlorous acid.

[0148] In response to a current flowing between the anode 3614 and the cathode 3616 in the presence of water, the electrolysis cell 3606 can produce hypochlorous acid. In some instances, the use of chlorinated water can improve the production of hypochlorous acid.

[0149] Mixing hypochlorous acid with moisture may be accomplished in a manner similar to that discussed herein with respect to ozone. Thus, in some instances, one or more of the ozone-based embodiments disclosed herein may use an electrolytic cell 3606 instead of (or in addition to) an ozone generator. As such, ozone and hypochlorous acid may be generally referred to herein as a disinfectant solution that may be generated by a disinfectant solution generator (e.g., an ozone generator such as electrolytic cell 3606 or ozone generator 202). In other words, for example, the embodiments disclosed in connection with Figures 1-36 utilize at least one disinfectant solution to achieve a desired level of disinfection performance.

[0150] The disinfecting solutions described herein may be used as disinfectants for a variety of household or industrial products, including, but not limited to, dental and orthodontic instruments and equipment, surgical instruments, ventilation systems, respirators, nebulizers, hospital equipment, rooms, toys, daycare equipment, baby products (bottles, pumps, pumping equipment, pacifiers), kitchen equipment, fruits and vegetables, sports equipment, clothing, and other uses where the systems and methods described herein can be easily incorporated into disinfection devices to provide improved disinfection of objects over existing disinfection methods.

[0151] One example of a sanitizing apparatus consistent with the present disclosure may include a sanitizing chamber, a sanitizing solution generator (e.g., an ozone generator and / or an electrolytic cell) configured to generate a sanitizing solution, and a humidifier fluidly coupled to the sanitizing chamber and the sanitizing solution generator, wherein the humidifier is downstream of the sanitizing solution generator and upstream of the sanitizing chamber.

[0152] In some instances, the humidifier may include a piezoelectric atomizer configured to generate droplets having a droplet size ranging from about 1.5 microns to about 4.5 microns. In some instances, the piezoelectric atomizer may be configured to generate droplets having a droplet size of about 2.5 microns. In some instances, the piezoelectric atomizer may include a protective coating. In some instances, the humidifier may include an inlet connector configured to introduce turbulence into air passing therethrough and an outlet downstream of the inlet connector. In some instances, the air may exit the inlet connector along an inlet axis, and the humidifier further includes an atomizer having an outlet axis, the outlet axis extending transverse to the inlet axis. In some instances, the outlet axis may be substantially perpendicular to the inlet axis. In some instances, the humidifier may include a liquid reservoir, a wick assembly removably coupled to the liquid reservoir, and a piezoelectric atomizer configured to engage with the wick assembly. In some instances, the humidifier may include a liquid reservoir access including a carriage for receiving the liquid reservoir, the carriage configured to move along an insertion axis and a coupling axis, the coupling axis extending transversely to the insertion axis. In some instances, movement of the carriage along the coupling axis may engage and disengage the wick assembly with the piezoelectric atomizer. In some instances, the humidifier may include a humidification chamber and an atomizer, the humidification chamber having a bottom wall, a top wall, and one or more side walls extending between the bottom and top walls, the atomizer coupled to the bottom wall. In some instances, at least a portion of the top wall may be angled to direct liquid condensed thereon toward at least one of the one or more side walls such that the liquid flows down at least one of the one or more side walls and collects on the bottom wall.

[0153] One example of a sterilization apparatus consistent with the present disclosure may include a sterilization chamber, an ozone generator, and a humidifier fluidly connected to the sterilization chamber and the ozone generator, with the humidifier downstream of the ozone generator and upstream of the sterilization chamber.

[0154] In some instances, the humidifier may include a piezoelectric atomizer configured to generate droplets having a droplet size ranging from about 1.5 microns to about 4.5 microns. In some instances, the piezoelectric atomizer may be configured to generate droplets having a droplet size of about 2.5 microns. In some instances, the piezoelectric atomizer may include a protective coating. In some instances, the humidifier may include an inlet connector configured to introduce turbulence into air passing therethrough and an outlet downstream of the inlet connector. In some instances, the air may exit the inlet connector along an inlet axis, and the humidifier further includes an atomizer having an outlet axis, the outlet axis extending transverse to the inlet axis. In some instances, the outlet axis may be substantially perpendicular to the inlet axis. In some instances, the humidifier may include a liquid reservoir, a wick assembly removably coupled to the liquid reservoir, and a piezoelectric atomizer configured to engage with the wick assembly. In some instances, the humidifier may include a liquid reservoir access including a carriage for receiving the liquid reservoir, the carriage configured to move along an insertion axis and a coupling axis, the coupling axis extending transversely to the insertion axis. In some instances, movement of the carriage along the coupling axis may engage and disengage the wick assembly with the piezoelectric atomizer. In some instances, the humidifier may include a humidification chamber and an atomizer, the humidification chamber having a bottom wall, a top wall, and one or more side walls extending between the bottom and top walls, the atomizer coupled to the bottom wall. In some instances, at least a portion of the top wall may be angled to direct liquid condensed thereon toward at least one of the one or more side walls such that the liquid flows down at least one of the one or more side walls and collects on the bottom wall.

[0155] Another example of a sterilization device consistent with the present disclosure may include a sterilization chamber, an ozone generator, and a humidifier fluidly coupled to the sterilization chamber and the ozone generator, the humidifier including a liquid reservoir, a humidification chamber, and a piezoelectric atomizer configured to emit atomized droplets into the humidification chamber along an emission axis.

[0156] In some instances, the piezoelectric atomizer may be configured to generate droplets having a droplet size ranging from about 1.5 microns to about 4.5 microns. In some instances, the piezoelectric atomizer may be configured to generate droplets having a droplet size of about 2.5 microns. In some instances, the piezoelectric atomizer may include a protective coating. In some instances, the humidifier may include an inlet connector configured to introduce turbulence into air passing therethrough and an outlet downstream of the inlet connector. In some instances, the air may exit the inlet connector along an injection axis extending transversely to the ejection axis. In some instances, the ejection axis may be substantially perpendicular to the injection axis. In some instances, the humidifier may include a wick assembly removably coupled to a liquid reservoir and configured to engage with the piezoelectric atomizer. In some instances, the humidifier may include a liquid reservoir access including a carriage for receiving the liquid reservoir, the carriage configured to move along an insertion axis and a coupling axis, the coupling axis extending transversely to the insertion axis. In some instances, movement of the carriage along the connecting shaft can engage and disengage the wick assembly with the piezoelectric atomizer. In some instances, the humidification chamber can include a bottom wall, a top wall, and one or more side walls extending between the bottom and top walls, with the piezoelectric atomizer coupled to the bottom wall. In some instances, at least a portion of the top wall can be sloped to direct liquid condensed thereon toward at least one of the one or more side walls such that the liquid flows down at least one of the one or more side walls and collects on the bottom wall. In some instances, the liquid collected on the bottom wall can be returned to the liquid reservoir.

[0157] Another example of a sterilization device consistent with the present disclosure may include a sterilization chamber having a sterilization chamber outlet, an ozone reducing filter fluidly connected to the sterilization chamber outlet, an ozone generator, and a humidifier fluidly connected to the sterilization chamber and the ozone generator. The humidifier may include a humidification chamber having a liquid reservoir, an inlet connector configured to introduce turbulence into air passing therethrough and an outlet downstream of the inlet connector, and a piezoelectric atomizer configured to emit atomized liquid droplets into the humidification chamber along an emission axis.

[0158] In some instances, the inlet connector may include a connector inlet axis and a connector outlet axis, where the connector inlet axis extends transversely to the connector outlet axis. In some instances, the connector inlet axis may be perpendicular to the connector outlet axis. In some instances, the piezoelectric atomizer may include a protective coating. In some instances, the piezoelectric atomizer may be configured to generate droplets having a droplet size ranging from about 1.5 microns to about 4.5 microns.

[0159] Another example of a sterilization apparatus consistent with the present disclosure may include a sterilization chamber, an ozone generator, and a humidifier fluidly connected to the sterilization chamber and the ozone generator, such that the humidifier is downstream of the ozone generator and upstream of the sterilization chamber, and the humidifier includes a piezoelectric atomizer.

[0160] In some instances, the piezoelectric atomizer may include a protective coating. In some instances, the protective coating may have a thickness ranging from about 2 microns to about 12 microns. In some instances, the protective coating may be a parylene coating. In some instances, the protective coating may be hydrophobic. In some instances, the piezoelectric atomizer may include a hydrophobic coating. In some instances, the piezoelectric atomizer may be formed from one or more durable materials. In some instances, the piezoelectric atomizer may include a protective coating. In some instances, the humidifier may include a piezoelectric atomizer configured to generate droplets having a droplet size ranging from about 1.5 microns to about 4.5 microns. In some instances, the piezoelectric atomizer may be configured to generate droplets having a droplet size of about 2.5 microns. In some instances, the piezoelectric atomizer may include a protective coating. In some instances, the humidifier may include an inlet connector configured to introduce turbulence into air passing therethrough and an outlet downstream of the inlet connector. In some instances, the air may exit the inlet connector along an injection axis extending transverse to the emission axis of the piezoelectric atomizer. In some instances, the ejection axis may be substantially perpendicular to the injection axis. In some instances, the humidifier may include a liquid reservoir and a wick assembly removably coupled to the liquid reservoir and configured to engage with a piezoelectric atomizer. In some instances, the humidifier may include a liquid reservoir access including a carriage for receiving the liquid reservoir, the carriage configured to move along an insertion axis and a coupling axis, the coupling axis extending transversely to the insertion axis. In some instances, movement of the carriage along the coupling axis may engage and disengage the wick assembly with the piezoelectric atomizer. In some instances, the humidifier may include a humidification chamber having a bottom wall, a top wall, and one or more side walls extending between the bottom and top walls, and the atomizer is coupled to the bottom wall. In some instances, at least a portion of the top wall may be angled to direct liquid condensed thereon toward at least one of the one or more side walls, such that the liquid flows down at least one of the one or more side walls and collects on the bottom wall.

[0161] Another example of a sterilization device consistent with the present disclosure may include a sterilization chamber, an ozone generator, and a humidifier fluidly coupled to the sterilization chamber and the ozone generator, the humidifier including a liquid reservoir, a humidification chamber, and a piezoelectric atomizer fluidly coupled to the liquid reservoir and configured to emit atomized droplets into the humidification chamber along an emission axis.

[0162] In some instances, the piezoelectric atomizer may include a protective coating. In some instances, the protective coating may have a thickness ranging from about 2 microns to about 12 microns. In some instances, the protective coating may be a parylene coating. In some instances, the protective coating may be hydrophobic. In some instances, the piezoelectric atomizer may include a hydrophobic coating. In some instances, the piezoelectric atomizer may be formed from one or more durable materials. In some instances, the piezoelectric atomizer may include a protective coating. In some instances, the piezoelectric atomizer may be configured to generate droplets having a droplet size ranging from about 1.5 microns to about 4.5 microns. In some instances, the piezoelectric atomizer may be configured to generate droplets having a droplet size of about 2.5 microns. In some instances, the piezoelectric atomizer may include a protective coating.

[0163] Another example of a sterilization apparatus consistent with the present disclosure may include a sterilization chamber, an ozone generator fluidly connected to the sterilization chamber, and a humidifier fluidly connected to the sterilization chamber and the ozone generator, wherein the humidifier is downstream of the ozone generator and upstream of the sterilization chamber, and wherein a controller is configured to control operation of the ozone generator and the humidifier according to a sterilization cycle.

[0164] In some instances, the sterilization cycle may include a first period, a second period, and a third period, and during the first period, the controller simultaneously operates both the ozone generator and the humidifier. In some instances, the humidifier may be disabled during the second period. In some instances, during the second period, the controller may selectively enable and disable the ozone generator, causing the ozone generator to generate ozone pulses. In some instances, the humidifier and the ozone generator may be disabled during the third period. In some instances, to generate the ozone pulses, the controller may alternate between enabling the ozone generator for approximately 10 seconds and disabling the ozone generator for approximately 65 seconds. In some instances, the controller may configure the ozone generator to generate ozone pulses at a pulse rate, and the pulse rate may be configured so that the amount of ozone in the sterilization chamber is within a range of approximately 80 ppm to approximately 150 ppm. In some instances, the first period may be approximately 6 minutes, the second period may be approximately 72 minutes, and the third period may be approximately 12 minutes. In some instances, during the first time period, the controller may operate the humidifier to maintain a relative humidity within the sterilization chamber within a range of about 65% to about 99%. In some instances, the first time period may occur before the second time period, and the second time period may occur before the third time period. In some instances, the second time period may be longer than both the third time period and the first time period. In some instances, the first time period may be shorter than the third time period.

[0165] Another example of a sterilization apparatus consistent with the present disclosure may include a sterilization chamber, an ozone generator fluidly connected to the sterilization chamber, a pump fluidly connected to and upstream of the ozone generator, a fan fluidly connected to and downstream of the ozone generator, a humidifier fluidly connected to the sterilization chamber and the ozone generator, the humidifier downstream of the ozone generator and upstream of the sterilization chamber, and a controller configured to control operation of the ozone generator, the humidifier, the pump, and the fan according to a sterilization cycle, the sterilization cycle including at least one of a first period, a second period, and a third period.

[0166] In some instances, the controller may operate the fan at a fan flow rate and the pump at a pump flow rate, where the pump flow rate is different from the fan flow rate during at least one of the first time period, the second time period, and / or the third time period. In some instances, the fan flow rate may be less than the pump flow rate during the first time period and the second time period. In some instances, the ratio of the fan flow rate to the pump flow rate during the first time period and the second time period may be about 0.9. In some instances, the fan flow rate may be greater than the pump flow rate during the third time period. In some instances, the pump flow rate may be in a range of about 1 standard liter per minute (SLPM) to about 1.6 SLPM during the first time period and the second time period. In some instances, the fan flow rate may be about 0.1 SLPM to about 0.15 SLPM less than the pump flow rate during the first time period and the second time period. In some instances, during the first time period, the controller may operate both the ozone generator and the humidifier simultaneously. In some instances, the humidifier may be disabled during the second time period. In some instances, during the second time period, the controller may selectively enable and disable the ozone generator, causing the ozone generator to generate ozone pulses. In some instances, the humidifier and ozone generator may be disabled during a third time period. In some instances, to generate ozone pulses, the controller may alternate between enabling the ozone generator for approximately 10 seconds and disabling the ozone generator for approximately 65 seconds. In some instances, the controller may configure the ozone generator to generate ozone pulses at a pulse rate, which may be configured to provide an amount of ozone in the sterilization chamber in a range of approximately 80 ppm to approximately 150 ppm. In some instances, the first time period may be approximately 6 minutes, the second time period may be approximately 72 minutes, and the third time period may be approximately 12 minutes. In some instances, during the first time period, the controller may operate the humidifier to provide a relative humidity in the sterilization chamber in a range of approximately 65% ​​to approximately 99%. In some instances, the first period of time may occur before the second period of time, and the second period of time may occur before the third period of time, hi some instances, the second period of time may be longer than both the third period of time and the first period of time.In some instances, the first period of time may be shorter than the third period of time.

[0167] Another example of a sterilization device consistent with the present disclosure may include a sterilization chamber, an ozone generator, and a humidifier fluidly connected to the sterilization chamber and the ozone generator, the humidifier including a humidification chamber and a liquid reservoir.

[0168] In some instances, the humidification chamber may include a bottom wall, a top wall, and one or more sidewalls extending between the bottom and top walls. In some instances, at least a portion of the top wall may be sloped to direct condensed liquid thereon toward at least one of the one or more sidewalls, such that the liquid flows down at least one of the one or more sidewalls and collects on the bottom wall. In some instances, the liquid collected on the bottom wall may be returned to the liquid reservoir. In some instances, the humidifier may further include a piezoelectric atomizer coupled to the bottom wall and configured to emit atomized droplets along an emission axis extending toward the top wall. In some instances, the piezoelectric atomizer may be configured to generate droplets having a droplet size ranging from about 1.5 microns to about 4.5 microns. In some instances, the piezoelectric atomizer may be configured to generate droplets having a droplet size of about 2.5 microns. In some instances, the piezoelectric atomizer may include a protective coating. In some instances, the humidification chamber may include an inlet connector configured to introduce turbulence into air passing therethrough and an outlet downstream of the inlet connector. In some instances, the air may exit the inlet connector along an injection axis, and the humidifier may further include an atomizer having an ejection axis, the ejection axis extending transversely to the injection axis. In some instances, the ejection axis may be substantially perpendicular to the injection axis. In some instances, the humidifier may further include a wick assembly removably coupled to the liquid reservoir and a piezoelectric atomizer configured to engage with the wick assembly. In some instances, the humidifier may further include a liquid reservoir access including a carriage for receiving the liquid reservoir, the carriage configured to move along an insertion axis and a coupling axis, the coupling axis extending transversely to the insertion axis. In some instances, movement of the carriage along the coupling axis may engage and disengage the wick assembly with the piezoelectric atomizer.

[0169] Another example of a sterilization apparatus consistent with the present disclosure may include a sterilization chamber, an ozone generator fluidly coupled to the sterilization chamber, and a humidifier fluidly coupled to the sterilization chamber and the ozone generator, the humidifier downstream of the ozone generator and upstream of the sterilization chamber, a controller configured to control operation of the ozone generator and the humidifier, the controller configured to operate both the ozone generator and the humidifier simultaneously for a first time period and to operate the ozone generator independently of the humidifier for a second time period.

[0170] In some instances, the second period may be greater than the first period. In some instances, the humidifier may include an inlet connector configured to introduce turbulence into air passing therethrough and an outlet downstream of the inlet connector. In some instances, the air may exit the inlet connector along an injection axis, and the humidifier further includes an atomizer having an ejection axis, the ejection axis extending transversely to the injection axis. In some instances, the ejection axis may be substantially perpendicular to the injection axis. In some instances, the humidifier may include a liquid reservoir, a wick assembly removably coupled to the liquid reservoir, and a piezoelectric atomizer configured to engage with the wick assembly. In some instances, the humidifier may include a liquid reservoir access including a carriage for receiving the liquid reservoir, the carriage configured to move along an insertion axis and a coupling axis, the coupling axis extending transversely to the insertion axis. In some instances, movement of the carriage along the coupling axis may engage and disengage the wick assembly with the piezoelectric atomizer. In some instances, the humidifier may further include a humidification chamber having a bottom wall, a top wall, and one or more side walls extending between the bottom and top walls, with the atomizer coupled to the bottom wall. In some instances, the top wall may be sloped to direct liquid condensed thereon toward at least one of the one or more side walls so that the liquid flows down at least one of the one or more side walls and collects on the bottom wall. In some instances, the liquid collected on the bottom wall may be returned to the liquid reservoir.

[0171] An example of a disinfection device for cleaning one or more components of a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine consistent with the present disclosure may include a disinfection chamber, an ozone generator fluidly connected to the disinfection chamber, and a humidifier fluidly connected to the ozone generator, the humidifier downstream from the ozone generator, a CPAP hose fluidly connecting the humidifier to the disinfection chamber, and a controller configured to control operation of the ozone generator and the humidifier.

[0172] In some instances, the controller may be configured to operate both the ozone generator and the humidifier simultaneously for a first period of time and to operate the ozone generator independently of the humidifier for a second period of time, the second period of time being greater than the first period of time. In some instances, the humidifier may include an inlet connector configured to introduce turbulence into air passing therethrough and an outlet downstream of the inlet connector. In some instances, the air may exit the inlet connector along an injection axis, and the humidifier further includes an atomizer having an ejection axis, the ejection axis extending transversely to the injection axis. In some instances, the ejection axis may be substantially perpendicular to the injection axis. In some instances, the humidifier may include a liquid reservoir, a wick assembly removably coupled to the liquid reservoir, and a piezoelectric atomizer configured to engage with the wick assembly. In some instances, the humidifier may include a liquid reservoir access including a carriage for receiving the liquid reservoir, the carriage configured to move along an insertion axis and a coupling axis, the coupling axis extending transversely to the insertion axis. In some instances, movement of the carriage along the connecting shaft can engage and disengage the wick assembly with the piezoelectric atomizer. In some instances, the humidifier can further include a humidification chamber having a bottom wall, a top wall, and one or more side walls extending between the bottom and top walls, with the atomizer coupled to the bottom wall. In some instances, the top wall can be sloped to direct liquid condensed thereon toward at least one of the one or more side walls such that the liquid flows down at least one of the one or more side walls and collects on the bottom wall. In some instances, the liquid collected on the bottom wall can be returned to the liquid reservoir.

[0173] One example of a humidifier for use in a sterilization apparatus consistent with the present disclosure may include an atomizer, a liquid reservoir, and a humidification chamber, wherein the atomizer is configured to emit atomized liquid from the liquid reservoir into the humidification chamber, the humidification chamber having a bottom wall, a top wall, and one or more side walls extending between the bottom and top walls, and at least a portion of the top wall may be sloped to direct liquid condensed thereon toward at least one of the one or more side walls so that liquid flows down at least one of the one or more side walls and collects on the bottom wall.

[0174] In some instances, the liquid collected on the bottom wall may be returned to the liquid reservoir. In some instances, the atomizer may be coupled to the bottom wall of the humidification chamber. In some instances, the atomizer may be configured to emit atomized droplets along an ejection axis extending toward the top wall. In some instances, the humidification chamber may include an inlet connector configured to introduce turbulence into air passing therethrough and an outlet downstream of the inlet connector. In some instances, the air may exit the inlet connector along an ejection axis, the ejection axis extending transversely to the ejection axis. In some instances, the ejection axis may be substantially perpendicular to the ejection axis. In some instances, the atomizer may be configured to generate droplets having a droplet size ranging from about 1.5 microns to about 4.5 microns. In some instances, the atomizer may be configured to generate droplets having a droplet size of about 2.5 microns. In some instances, the atomizer may be a piezoelectric atomizer. In some instances, the atomizer may include a protective coating. In some instances, the humidifier may further include a wick assembly removably coupled to the liquid reservoir, and the atomizer is a piezoelectric atomizer configured to engage with the wick assembly. In some instances, the humidifier may further include a liquid reservoir access including a carriage for receiving the liquid reservoir, the carriage configured to move along an insertion axis and a coupling axis, and the coupling axis extending transverse to the insertion axis.

[0175] Another example of a sterilization apparatus consistent with the present disclosure may include a sterilization chamber, an ozone generator configured to generate ozone, and a humidifier configured to generate moisture and configured to be fluidly coupled to the sterilization chamber and the ozone generator, wherein the humidifier is configured to facilitate mixing of the generated ozone and the generated moisture.

[0176] In some instances, the disinfection chamber may be fluidly connected to a humidifier via a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) hose. In some instances, a first hose end of the CPAP hose may be connected to the humidifier, and a second hose end of the CPAP hose may be connected to a CPAP mask, with the disinfection chamber configured to receive the CPAP mask. In some instances, the humidifier may include a liquid reservoir, a humidification chamber, and a humidity generator, with the humidity generator configured to force liquid from the liquid reservoir into the humidification chamber. In some instances, the humidity generator may include an atomizer. In some instances, the atomizer may be configured to generate droplets having a droplet size ranging from about 1.5 microns to about 4.5 microns. In some instances, the atomizer may be configured to generate droplets having a droplet size of about 2.5 microns. In some instances, the ozone generator may be configured to generate an amount of ozone ranging from about 200 ppm to about 300 ppm. In some instances, the humidifier may be downstream of the ozone generator and may include an inlet connector configured to introduce turbulence into the air passing therethrough. In some instances, mixing of the generated ozone with the generated moisture may result in at least a portion of the generated ozone being entrained within the moisture droplets generated by the humidifier. In some instances, the pump may be fluidly connected to the sterilization chamber at a location upstream of the sterilization chamber, and the fan may be fluidly connected to the sterilization chamber at a location downstream of the sterilization chamber. In some instances, for at least a portion of the sterilization cycle, the fan may operate at a fan flow rate, and the pump may operate at a pump flow rate, where the fan flow rate may be less than the pump flow rate.

[0177] Another example of a sterilization device consistent with the present disclosure may include a sterilization chamber configured to receive at least a portion of a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) mask and a CPAP hose, an ozone generator configured to generate ozone, and a humidifier configured to generate humidity and fluidly coupled to the sterilization chamber and the ozone generator, wherein the humidifier is configured to facilitate mixing of the generated ozone with the generated humidity.

[0178] In some instances, the disinfection chamber may be fluidly connected to a humidifier via a CPAP hose. In some instances, a first hose end of the CPAP hose may be connected to the humidifier, and a second hose end of the CPAP hose may be connected to a CPAP mask. In some instances, the humidifier may include a liquid reservoir, a humidification chamber, and a humidity generator, where the humidity generator is configured to force liquid from the liquid reservoir into the humidification chamber. In some instances, the humidity generator may include an atomizer. In some instances, the atomizer may be configured to generate droplets having a droplet size ranging from about 1.5 microns to about 4.5 microns. In some instances, the atomizer may be configured to generate droplets having a droplet size of about 2.5 microns. In some instances, the ozone generator may be configured to generate an amount of ozone ranging from about 200 ppm to about 300 ppm. In some instances, the humidifier may be downstream of the ozone generator and may include an inlet connector configured to introduce turbulence into air passing therethrough. In some instances, mixing of the generated ozone with the generated humidity may result in at least a portion of the generated ozone being entrained within the moisture droplets generated by the humidifier. In some instances, the pump may be fluidly connected to the sterilization chamber at a location upstream of the sterilization chamber, and the fan may be fluidly connected to the sterilization chamber at a location downstream of the sterilization chamber. In some instances, for at least a portion of the sterilization cycle, the fan may operate at a fan flow rate, and the pump may operate at a pump flow rate, and the fan flow rate may be less than the pump flow rate.

[0179] Another example of a disinfection device consistent with the present disclosure may include a disinfection chamber configured to receive a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) mask, the disinfection chamber including a hose pass-through configured to allow a CPAP hose to pass therethrough; an ozone generator configured to generate ozone; a humidifier configured to generate moisture and fluidly coupled to the disinfection chamber and the ozone generator, the humidifier configured to promote mixing of the generated ozone and the generated moisture such that at least a portion of the generated ozone is entrained in moisture droplets generated by the humidifier, wherein a first end of the CPAP hose is coupled to the humidifier and a second end of the CPAP hose is coupled to the CPAP mask; a pump fluidly coupled to the disinfection chamber at a location upstream of the disinfection chamber; and a fan fluidly coupled to the disinfection chamber at a location downstream of the disinfection chamber, wherein for at least a portion of a disinfection cycle, the fan operates at a fan flow rate and the pump operates at a pump flow rate, the fan flow rate being less than the pump flow rate.

[0180] In some instances, the humidifier may include a liquid reservoir, a humidification chamber, and an atomizer. In some instances, the atomizer may be configured to generate droplets having a droplet size ranging from about 1.5 microns to about 4.5 microns. In some instances, the atomizer may be configured to generate droplets having a droplet size of about 2.5 microns. In some instances, the ozone generator may be configured to produce an amount of ozone ranging from about 200 ppm to about 300 ppm. In some instances, the humidifier may be downstream of the ozone generator and include an inlet connector configured to introduce turbulence into air passing therethrough.

[0181] Another example of a sterilization apparatus consistent with the present disclosure may include a sterilization chamber, an ozone generator, and a humidifier configured to generate humidity and fluidly coupled to the sterilization chamber and the ozone generator, the humidifier configured to facilitate mixing of the generated ozone with the generated humidity.

[0182] In some instances, the humidifier may include a humidity generator configured to generate droplets having a droplet size ranging from about 1.5 microns to about 4.5 microns. In some instances, the humidity generator may be configured to generate droplets having a droplet size of about 2.5 microns. In some instances, the humidity generator may include a protective coating. In some instances, the humidifier may include an inlet connector configured to introduce turbulence into air passing therethrough and an outlet downstream of the inlet connector. In some instances, the air may exit the inlet connector along an inlet axis, and the humidifier may further include an atomizer having an outlet axis, the outlet axis extending transversely to the inlet axis. In some instances, the outlet axis may be substantially perpendicular to the inlet axis. In some instances, the humidifier may include a liquid reservoir, a wick assembly removably coupled to the liquid reservoir, and a piezoelectric atomizer configured to engage with the wick assembly. In some instances, the humidifier may include a liquid reservoir access including a carriage for receiving the liquid reservoir, the carriage configured to move along an insertion axis and a coupling axis, the coupling axis extending transversely to the insertion axis. In some instances, movement of the carriage along the coupling axis may engage and disengage the wick assembly with the piezoelectric atomizer. In some instances, the humidifier may include a humidification chamber and an atomizer, the humidification chamber having a bottom wall, a top wall, and one or more side walls extending between the bottom and top walls, the atomizer coupled to the bottom wall. In some instances, at least a portion of the top wall may be angled to direct liquid condensed thereon toward at least one of the one or more side walls such that the liquid flows down at least one of the one or more side walls and collects on the bottom wall.

[0183] Another example of a sterilization device consistent with the present disclosure may include a sterilization chamber, an ozone generator, and a humidifier configured to be fluidly connected to the ozone generator and to the sterilization chamber via a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) hose, the humidifier including a liquid reservoir, a humidification chamber, and a humidity generator.

[0184] In some instances, the humidity generator may be configured to generate droplets having a droplet size ranging from about 1.5 microns to about 4.5 microns. In some instances, the humidity generator may be configured to generate droplets having a droplet size of about 2.5 microns. In some instances, the humidity generator may include a protective coating. In some instances, the humidifier may include an inlet connector configured to introduce turbulence into air passing therethrough and an outlet downstream of the inlet connector. In some instances, the air may exit the inlet connector along an inlet axis extending transversely to the discharge axis of the humidity generator. In some instances, the discharge axis may be substantially perpendicular to the inlet axis. In some instances, the humidifier may further include a wick assembly removably coupled to the liquid reservoir. In some instances, the humidifier may include a liquid reservoir access including a carriage for receiving the liquid reservoir, the carriage configured to move along an insertion axis and a coupling axis, the coupling axis extending transversely to the insertion axis. In some instances, movement of the carriage along the connecting shaft can engage and disengage the wick assembly with the liquid distributor of the humidity generator. In some instances, the humidification chamber can include a bottom wall, a top wall, and one or more side walls extending between the bottom and top walls, and at least a portion of the humidity generator is connected to the bottom wall. In some instances, at least a portion of the top wall can be sloped to direct liquid condensed thereon toward at least one of the one or more side walls such that the liquid flows down at least one of the one or more side walls and collects on the bottom wall. In some instances, the liquid collected on the bottom wall can be returned to the liquid reservoir.

[0185] Another example of a sterilization device consistent with the present disclosure may include a sterilization chamber having a sterilization chamber outlet, an ozone reducing filter fluidly connected to the sterilization chamber outlet, an ozone generator, and a humidifier fluidly connected to the sterilization chamber and the ozone generator. The humidifier may include a humidification chamber having a liquid reservoir, an inlet connector configured to introduce turbulence into air passing therethrough and an outlet downstream of the inlet connector, and the humidity generator configured to emit liquid droplets into the humidification chamber along an emission axis.

[0186] In some instances, the inlet connector may include a connector inlet axis and a connector outlet axis, where the connector inlet axis extends transversely to the connector outlet axis. In some instances, the connector inlet axis may be perpendicular to the connector outlet axis. In some instances, the humidity generator may include a protective coating. In some instances, the humidity generator may be configured to generate droplets having a droplet size ranging from about 1.5 microns to about 4.5 microns.

[0187] Another example of a sterilization apparatus consistent with the present disclosure may include a sterilization chamber, an ozone generator, and a humidifier fluidly connected to the sterilization chamber and the ozone generator, wherein the humidifier includes a humidity generator having a protective coating.

[0188] In some instances, the humidity generator may include a piezoelectric atomizer. In some instances, the protective coating may have a thickness ranging from about 2 microns to about 12 microns. In some instances, the protective coating may be a parylene coating. In some instances, the protective coating may be hydrophobic. In some instances, the humidifier may include a piezoelectric atomizer configured to generate droplets having a droplet size ranging from about 1.5 microns to about 4.5 microns. In some instances, the piezoelectric atomizer may be configured to generate droplets having a droplet size of about 2.5 microns. In some instances, the piezoelectric atomizer may include a protective coating. In some instances, the humidifier may include an inlet connector configured to introduce turbulence into air passing therethrough and an outlet downstream of the inlet connector. In some instances, the air may exit the inlet connector along an inlet axis extending transverse to the emission axis of the humidity generator. In some instances, the emission axis may be substantially perpendicular to the inlet axis. In some instances, the humidifier may include a liquid reservoir and a wick assembly removably coupled to the liquid reservoir. In some instances, the humidifier may include a liquid reservoir access including a carriage for receiving the liquid reservoir, the carriage configured to move along an insertion axis and a coupling axis, the coupling axis extending transversely to the insertion axis. In some instances, movement of the carriage along the coupling axis may engage and disengage the wick assembly with a liquid distributor of the humidity generator. In some instances, the humidifier may include a humidification chamber having a bottom wall, a top wall, and one or more side walls extending between the bottom and top walls, and at least a portion of the humidity generator is coupled to the bottom wall. In some instances, at least a portion of the top wall may be angled to direct liquid condensed thereon toward at least one of the one or more side walls such that the liquid flows down at least one of the one or more side walls and collects on the bottom wall.

[0189] Another example of a sterilization device consistent with the present disclosure may include a sterilization chamber, an ozone generator, and a humidifier fluidly connected to the ozone generator and configured to be fluidly connected to the sterilization chamber via a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) hose, the humidifier including a liquid reservoir, a humidification chamber, and a humidity generator fluidly connected to the liquid reservoir and configured to emit liquid droplets into the humidification chamber along an emission axis.

[0190] In some instances, the humidity generator may include a protective coating. In some instances, the protective coating may have a thickness ranging from about 2 microns to about 12 microns. In some instances, the protective coating may be a parylene coating. In some instances, the protective coating may be hydrophobic. In some instances, the humidity generator may include a piezoelectric atomizer having a protective coating. In some instances, the humidity generator may be configured to generate droplets having a droplet size ranging from about 1.5 microns to about 4.5 microns. In some instances, the humidity generator may be configured to generate droplets having a droplet size of about 2.5 microns. In some instances, the humidity generator may include a piezoelectric atomizer having a protective coating. In some instances, the sterilization chamber may be configured to receive a CPAP mask connected to a CPAP hose.

[0191] Another example of a sterilization apparatus consistent with the present disclosure may include a sterilization chamber, an ozone generator fluidly connected to the sterilization chamber, and a humidifier fluidly connected to the sterilization chamber and the ozone generator, the humidifier being upstream of the sterilization chamber, and a controller configured to control operation of the ozone generator and the humidifier according to a sterilization cycle.

[0192] In some instances, the sterilization cycle may include a first period, a second period, and a third period, and during the first period, the controller simultaneously operates both the ozone generator and the humidifier. In some instances, the humidifier may be disabled during the second period. In some instances, during the second period, the controller may selectively enable and disable the ozone generator, causing the ozone generator to generate ozone pulses. In some instances, the humidifier and the ozone generator may be disabled during the third period. In some instances, to generate the ozone pulses, the controller may alternate between enabling the ozone generator for approximately 10 seconds and disabling the ozone generator for approximately 65 seconds. In some instances, the controller may configure the ozone generator to generate ozone pulses at a pulse rate, and the pulse rate may be configured so that the amount of ozone in the sterilization chamber is within a range of approximately 80 ppm to approximately 150 ppm. In some instances, the first period may be approximately 6 minutes, the second period may be approximately 72 minutes, and the third period may be approximately 12 minutes. In some instances, during the first time period, the controller may operate the humidifier to maintain a relative humidity within the sterilization chamber within a range of about 65% to about 99%. In some instances, the first time period may occur before the second time period, and the second time period may occur before the third time period. In some instances, the second time period may be longer than both the third time period and the first time period. In some instances, the first time period may be shorter than the third time period.

[0193] Another example of a sterilization apparatus consistent with the present disclosure may include a sterilization chamber, an ozone generator fluidly connected to the sterilization chamber, a pump fluidly connected to and upstream of the ozone generator, a fan fluidly connected to and downstream of the ozone generator, a humidifier fluidly connected to the sterilization chamber and the ozone generator, the humidifier upstream of the sterilization chamber, and a controller configured to control operation of the ozone generator, the humidifier, the pump, and the fan according to a sterilization cycle, the sterilization cycle including at least one of a first period, a second period, and a third period.

[0194] In some instances, the controller may operate the fan at a fan flow rate and the pump at a pump flow rate, where the pump flow rate is different from the fan flow rate during at least one of the first period, the second period, and / or the third period. In some instances, the fan flow rate may be less than the pump flow rate during the first period and the second period. In some instances, the ratio of the fan flow rate to the pump flow rate during the first period and the second period may be about 0.9. In some instances, the fan flow rate may be equal to or greater than the pump flow rate during the third period. In some instances, the pump flow rate may be in a range of about 1 standard liter per minute (SLPM) to about 1.6 SLPM during the first period and the second period. In some instances, the fan flow rate may be about 0.1 SLPM to about 0.15 SLPM less than the pump flow rate during the first period and the second period. In some instances, during the first period, the controller may operate both the ozone generator and the humidifier simultaneously. In some instances, the humidifier may be disabled during the second period. In some instances, during the second time period, the controller may selectively enable and disable the ozone generator, causing the ozone generator to generate ozone pulses. In some instances, the humidifier and ozone generator may be disabled during a third time period. In some instances, to generate ozone pulses, the controller may alternate between enabling the ozone generator for approximately 10 seconds and disabling the ozone generator for approximately 65 seconds. In some instances, the controller may configure the ozone generator to generate ozone pulses at a pulse rate, which may be configured to provide an amount of ozone in the sterilization chamber in a range of approximately 80 ppm to approximately 150 ppm. In some instances, the first time period may be approximately 6 minutes, the second time period may be approximately 72 minutes, and the third time period may be approximately 12 minutes. In some instances, during the first time period, the controller may operate the humidifier to provide a relative humidity in the sterilization chamber in a range of approximately 65% ​​to approximately 99%. In some instances, the first period of time may occur before the second period of time, and the second period of time may occur before the third period of time, hi some instances, the second period of time may be longer than both the third period of time and the first period of time.In some instances, the first period of time may be shorter than the third period of time.

[0195] Another example of a sterilization device consistent with the present disclosure may include a sterilization chamber, an ozone generator, and a humidifier configured to be fluidly coupled to the sterilization chamber via a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) hose and to the ozone generator, the humidifier including a humidification chamber and a liquid reservoir, the humidifier configured to facilitate mixing of the generated ozone and the generated humidity.

[0196] In some instances, the humidification chamber may include a bottom wall, a top wall, and one or more side walls extending between the bottom and top walls. In some instances, at least a portion of the top wall may be sloped to direct condensed liquid thereon toward at least one of the one or more side walls, such that the liquid flows down at least one of the one or more side walls and collects on the bottom wall. In some instances, the liquid collected on the bottom wall may be returned to the liquid reservoir. In some instances, the humidifier may further include a liquid distributor coupled to the bottom wall and configured to emit droplets along an emission axis extending toward the top wall. In some instances, the liquid distributor may be configured to generate droplets having a droplet size ranging from about 1.5 microns to about 4.5 microns. In some instances, the liquid distributor may be configured to generate droplets having a droplet size of about 2.5 microns. In some instances, the liquid distributor may include a protective coating. In some instances, the humidification chamber may include an inlet connector configured to introduce turbulence into air passing therethrough and an outlet downstream of the inlet connector. In some instances, the air may exit the inlet connector along an inlet axis, and the humidifier may further include a liquid distributor having a discharge axis, the discharge axis extending transversely to the inlet axis. In some instances, the discharge axis may be substantially perpendicular to the inlet axis. In some instances, the humidifier may further include a wick assembly removably coupled to the liquid reservoir and a liquid distributor configured to engage with the wick assembly. In some instances, the humidifier may further include a liquid reservoir access including a carriage for receiving the liquid reservoir, the carriage configured to move along an insertion axis and a coupling axis, the coupling axis extending transversely to the insertion axis. In some instances, movement of the carriage along the coupling axis may engage and disengage the wick assembly with the liquid distributor.

[0197] Another example of a humidifier for use in a disinfection apparatus consistent with the present disclosure may include a liquid distributor, a liquid reservoir, and a humidification chamber, wherein the liquid distributor is configured to release liquid from the liquid reservoir into the humidification chamber, and the humidification chamber has a bottom wall, a top wall, and one or more side walls extending between the bottom and top walls, and at least a portion of the top wall may be sloped to direct liquid condensed thereon toward at least one of the one or more side walls so that liquid flows down at least one of the one or more side walls and collects on the bottom wall.

[0198] In some instances, liquid collected on the bottom wall may be returned to the liquid reservoir. In some instances, the liquid distributor may be coupled to the bottom wall of the humidification chamber. In some instances, the liquid distributor may be configured to emit droplets along an ejection axis extending toward the top wall. In some instances, the humidification chamber may include an inlet connector configured to introduce turbulence into air passing therethrough and an outlet downstream of the inlet connector. In some instances, air may exit the inlet connector along an ejection axis, the ejection axis extending transversely to the ejection axis. In some instances, the ejection axis may be substantially perpendicular to the ejection axis. In some instances, the liquid distributor may be configured to generate droplets having a droplet size ranging from about 1.5 microns to about 4.5 microns. In some instances, the liquid distributor may be configured to generate droplets having a droplet size of about 2.5 microns. In some instances, the liquid distributor may be a piezoelectric atomizer.

[0199] While the principles of the present invention have been described herein, it is to be understood by those skilled in the art that this description is made by way of example only and not as a limitation on the scope of the invention. Other embodiments are contemplated within the scope of the present invention in addition to the exemplary embodiments shown and described herein. Modifications and substitutions by those skilled in the art are deemed to be within the scope of the present invention, which is not limited except as set forth in the claims.

Claims

1. 1. A disinfection device comprising: a disinfection chamber; an ozone generator configured to generate ozone; a humidifier configured to generate humidity and fluidly connected to the sterilization chamber and the ozone generator, the humidifier configured to facilitate mixing of the generated ozone with the generated humidity.

2. 10. The disinfection device of claim 1, wherein the disinfection chamber is fluidly connected to the humidifier via a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) hose.

3. 3. The disinfection device of claim 2, wherein a first hose end of the CPAP hose is connected to the humidifier and a second hose end of the CPAP hose is connected to a CPAP mask, and the disinfection chamber is configured to receive the CPAP mask.

4. 10. The disinfection device of claim 1, wherein the humidifier comprises a liquid reservoir, a humidification chamber, and a humidity generator, the humidity generator configured to force liquid from the liquid reservoir into the humidification chamber.

5. 5. The disinfection device of claim 4, wherein the humidity generator comprises an atomizer.

6. 6. The disinfection device of claim 5, wherein the atomizer is configured to produce droplets having a droplet size ranging from about 1.5 microns to about 4.5 microns.

7. 6. The disinfection device of claim 5, wherein the atomizer is configured to produce droplets having a droplet size of approximately 2.5 microns.

8. 10. The disinfection device of claim 1, wherein the ozone generator is configured to produce an amount of ozone in a range of about 200 ppm to about 300 ppm.

9. 10. The disinfection device of claim 1, wherein the humidifier is downstream of the ozone generator and includes an inlet connector configured to introduce turbulence into air passing therethrough.

10. 10. The disinfection device of claim 9, wherein mixing of the generated ozone and the generated moisture results in at least a portion of the generated ozone being entrained within droplets of moisture generated by the humidifier.

11. 10. The sterilization apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: a pump fluidly connected to the sterilization chamber at a location upstream of the sterilization chamber; and a fan fluidly connected to the sterilization chamber at a location downstream of the sterilization chamber.

12. 12. The disinfection device of claim 11, wherein for at least a portion of a disinfection cycle, the fan operates at a fan flow rate and the pump operates at a pump flow rate, the fan flow rate being less than the pump flow rate.

13. 1. A disinfection device comprising: a disinfection chamber configured to receive a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) mask and at least a portion of a CPAP hose; an ozone generator configured to generate ozone; a humidifier configured to generate humidity and fluidly connected to the sterilization chamber and the ozone generator, the humidifier configured to facilitate mixing of the generated ozone with the generated humidity.

14. 14. The disinfection device of claim 13, wherein the disinfection chamber is fluidly connected to the humidifier via the CPAP hose.

15. 15. The disinfection device of claim 14, wherein a first hose end of the CPAP hose is connected to the humidifier and a second hose end of the CPAP hose is connected to the CPAP mask.

16. 14. The disinfection device of claim 13, wherein the humidifier comprises a liquid reservoir, a humidification chamber, and a humidity generator, the humidity generator configured to force liquid from the liquid reservoir into the humidification chamber.

17. 17. The disinfection device of claim 16, wherein the humidity generator comprises an atomizer.

18. 18. The disinfection device of claim 17, wherein the atomizer is configured to produce droplets having a droplet size ranging from about 1.5 microns to about 4.5 microns.

19. 20. The disinfection device of claim 17, wherein the atomizer is configured to produce droplets having a droplet size of approximately 2.5 microns.

20. 14. The disinfection device of claim 13, wherein the ozone generator is configured to produce an amount of ozone in the range of about 200 ppm to about 300 ppm.

21. 14. The disinfection device of claim 13, wherein the humidifier is downstream from the ozone generator and includes an inlet connector configured to introduce turbulence into air passing therethrough.

22. 22. The disinfection device of claim 21, wherein mixing of the generated ozone and generated moisture results in at least a portion of the generated ozone being entrained within droplets of moisture generated by the humidifier.

23. 14. The disinfection apparatus of claim 13, further comprising a pump fluidly connected to the disinfection chamber at a location upstream of the disinfection chamber, and a fan fluidly connected to the disinfection chamber at a location downstream of the disinfection chamber.

24. 24. A disinfection device according to claim 23, wherein for at least a portion of a disinfection cycle, the fan operates at a fan flow rate and the pump operates at a pump flow rate, the fan flow rate being less than the pump flow rate.

25. 1. A disinfection device comprising: a disinfection chamber configured to receive a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) mask, the disinfection chamber including a hose pass-through configured to allow a CPAP hose to pass therethrough; an ozone generator configured to generate ozone; a humidifier configured to generate moisture and configured to be fluidly coupled to the sterilization chamber and the ozone generator, the humidifier configured to promote mixing of the generated ozone and the generated moisture such that at least a portion of the generated ozone is entrained within droplets of moisture generated by the humidifier, a first end of the CPAP hose coupled to the humidifier and a second end of the CPAP hose coupled to the CPAP mask; a pump fluidly connected to the sterilization chamber at a location upstream of the sterilization chamber; a fan fluidly connected to the sterilization chamber at a location downstream thereof, wherein, for at least a portion of a sterilization cycle, the fan operates at a fan flow rate and the pump operates at a pump flow rate, the fan flow rate being less than the pump flow rate.

26. 26. The disinfection device of claim 25, wherein the humidifier comprises a liquid reservoir, a humidification chamber, and an atomizer.

27. 27. The disinfection device of claim 26, wherein the atomizer is configured to produce droplets having a droplet size ranging from about 1.5 microns to about 4.5 microns.

28. 27. The disinfection device of claim 26, wherein the atomizer is configured to produce droplets having a droplet size of approximately 2.5 microns.

29. 26. The disinfection device of claim 25, wherein the ozone generator is configured to produce an amount of ozone in the range of about 200 ppm to about 300 ppm.

30. 26. The disinfection device of claim 25, wherein the humidifier is downstream from the ozone generator and includes an inlet connector configured to introduce turbulence into air passing therethrough.

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