Respiratory pressure therapy device

Abstract

Invasive ventilation (IV) provides ventilatory support to patients who are no longer able to breathe effectively on their own and may be provided using a tracheostomy tube. [Solution] A device for generating an air supply at positive pressure for the improvement or treatment of a respiratory disease includes a first chamber, a second chamber, at least one inlet tube constructed and configured to allow ambient air to enter the first chamber, at least one flow tube constructed and configured to allow air to pass from the first chamber to the second chamber, and a blower constructed and configured to generate an airflow at positive pressure. The blower is located in the first chamber and constructed and configured to receive air from the second chamber. The blower includes a housing constructed and configured to hermetically separate the airflow from the first chamber through the interior of the housing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] 1 Cross - reference to Related Applications This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 189,483. The entire content of each of these documents is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

[0002] 2 Background of the Technology 2.1 Field of the Technology This technology relates to one or more of the detection, diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and improvement of respiratory - related diseases. This technology also relates to medical devices or apparatuses and their use.

Background Art

[0003] 2.2 Description of Related Technologies 2.2.1 The Human Respiratory System and Its Diseases The respiratory system of the body facilitates gas exchange. The nose and mouth form the entrance to the patient's airway.

[0004] These airways include a series of branching tubes that become narrower, shorter, and more numerous as they progress deeper into the lungs. The main function of the lungs is gas exchange, taking oxygen from the air into the venous blood and expelling carbon dioxide. The trachea divides into the right and left main bronchi, which further divide and ultimately become the terminal bronchioles. The bronchi constitute the airways for conduction and are not involved in gas exchange. As the airways further divide, they become respiratory bronchioles and ultimately alveoli. Gas exchange occurs in the alveolar region of the lungs, and this region is called the respiratory zone. See the following: "Respiratory Physiology", by John B. West, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 9th edition published 2011.

[0005] A range of respiratory diseases exist. Certain diseases can be characterized by specific symptoms (e.g., apnea, hypopnea, and hyperventilation). <00​A range of treatments are used to treat or improve such conditions. Furthermore, even otherwise healthy individuals can benefit from preventive treatments for respiratory diseases. However, these methods have several drawbacks.

[0007] 2.2.2 Treatment Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is used in the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Its mechanism of action involves, for example, pushing the soft palate and tongue forward or backward against the posterior oropharyngeal wall, thereby acting as an air splint and preventing obstruction of the upper airway. Since CPAP treatment for OSA can be voluntary, patients may choose not to adhere to treatment if they notice one or more of the following regarding the device used to deliver the treatment: discomfort, difficulty of use, high cost, or lack of aesthetic appeal.

[0008] Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) provides ventilatory support to the patient through the upper airway, assisting with some or all of the respiratory function and / or maintaining adequate oxygen levels throughout the body. Ventilation support is provided through a non-invasive patient interface. NIV is used to treat forms of respiratory failure and pulmonary stenosis, such as OHS, COPD, MD, and chest wall disorders. In some forms, it can improve the comfort and effectiveness of these treatments.

[0009] Invasive ventilation (IV) provides ventilatory support to patients who are no longer able to breathe effectively on their own and may be provided using a tracheostomy tube. In some forms, the comfort and effectiveness of these treatments can be improved.

[0010] 2.2.3 Treatment System These treatments may be provided by treatment systems or devices. Such systems and devices may also be used to diagnose symptoms without treating them.

[0011] The treatment system may include a respiratory pressure therapy device (RPT device), air circuitry, humidifier, patient interface, and data management.

[0012] Another form of treatment system is the mandibular repositioning device.

[0013] 2.2.3.1 Patient Interface A patient interface may be used to provide the wearer with an interface to a respiratory appliance, for example, by providing airflow to the airway inlet. Airflow may be provided via a mask to the nose and / or mouth, a tube to the mouth, or a tracheostomy tube to the patient's trachea. Depending on the therapy applied, the patient interface may form a seal with, for example, the area of ​​the patient's face, thereby facilitating gas delivery at a pressure of sufficient dispersion along with the ambient pressure for the administration of the therapy (for example, at a positive pressure of about 10 cmH2O relative to the ambient pressure). In other forms of therapy, such as oxygen delivery, the patient interface may not include a seal sufficient to facilitate the delivery of gas to the airway at a positive pressure of about 10 cmH2O.

[0014] Certain other mask systems may be functionally unsuitable in this field. For example, masks intended purely for decorative purposes may not be able to maintain adequate pressure. Mask systems used for underwater swimming or diving may be configured to protect against water ingress from higher external pressures and to prevent the retention of internal air at pressures higher than the ambient pressure.

[0015] Certain masks may be impractical for use while sleeping (for example, when sleeping on your side in bed with your head on a pillow).

[0016] CPAP therapy is highly effective in treating certain respiratory conditions, provided the patient consents to the treatment. Patients may refuse treatment if the mask is uncomfortable or difficult to use. Since patients are often advised to wash their masks regularly, if cleaning the mask is difficult (e.g., if assembly or disassembly is difficult), the patient may be unable to clean the mask, which can affect their consent.

[0017] For these reasons, the patient interface for CPAP delivery during sleep forms a distinct field.

[0018] 2.2.3.1.1 Sealing formations The patient interface may include a sealing portion. Since the patient interface comes into direct contact with the patient's face, the shape and configuration of the sealing portion can directly affect the effectiveness and comfort of the patient interface.

[0019] Patient interfaces can be partially characterized according to the design intent of where the sealing portion engages with the face during use. In one form of patient interface, the sealing portion may include two sub-parts that engage with each nostril, the left and the right. In one form of patient interface, the sealing portion may include a single element that surrounds both nostrils during use. Such a single element may be designed to rest, for example, on the upper lip region and the bridge of the nose region of the face. In one form of patient interface, the sealing portion may include an element that surrounds the oral region by forming a seal, for example, on the lower lip region of the face during use. In one form of patient interface, the sealing portion may include a single element that surrounds both nostrils and the oral region during use. These different types of patient interfaces may be known by a variety of names by their manufacturers, such as nasal masks, full-face masks, nasal pillows, nasal puffs, and mouth-nasal masks.

[0020] 2.2.3.1.2 Positioning and Stabilization The sealing portion of the patient interface used in positive pressure air therapy receives the corresponding force of the air pressure that obstructs the seal. Therefore, various techniques are used to position the sealing portion and maintain the seal against the appropriate part of the face.

[0021] 2.2.3.2 Ventilation Technology Some forms of patient interface systems may include a ventilation portion for expelling the exhaled carbon dioxide. This ventilation portion may enable a flow from the internal space of the patient interface (e.g., the plenum chamber) to the outside of the patient interface (e.g., the surroundings). This ventilation portion may include an orifice, and when using a mask, gas may flow through the orifice. In the case of a number of such ventilation portions, it is noisy. In other cases, it may become blocked during use, resulting in insufficient expulsion. In the case of some ventilation portions, for example, due to noise or airflow concentration, it may interfere with the sleep of the person 1100 sleeping with the patient 1000.

[0022] ResMed Limited has developed a number of improved mask ventilation technologies. See the following: International Patent Application Publication No. WO1998 / 034,; International Patent Application Publication No. WO2000 / 078,381; U.S. Patent No. 6,581,594; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. US2009 / 0050156; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2009 / 0044808. <,

[0023] [Table 1]

[0024] [Table 2]

[0025] 2.2.3.3 Respiratory Pressure Therapy (RPT) Device Pneumatic generators are well known in a wide range of applications (e.g., industrial-scale ventilation systems). However, pneumatic generators for medical applications have specific requirements that cannot be met by more general pneumatic generators (e.g., reliability, size, and weight requirements for medical devices). In addition, even devices designed for medical treatment may not be free from defects related to one or more of the following: comfort, noise, ease of use, effectiveness, size, weight, manufacturability, cost, and reliability.

[0026] One example of a specific requirement for a particular RPT device is acoustic noise.

[0027] [Table 3]

[0028] One known RPT device used in the treatment of sleep-disordered respiratory disorders is the S9 Sleep Therapy System (manufactured by ResMed Limited). Another example of an RPT device is a ventilator. Ventilators (e.g., the ResMed Stellar® series of adult and pediatric ventilators) can provide support for invasive and non-invasive independent ventilation for a range of patients for the treatment of multiple conditions (e.g., NMD, OHS, and COPD).

[0029] The ResMed Elisee® 150 and ResMed VSIII® ventilators can provide invasive and non-invasive dependent ventilation support suitable for adult or pediatric patients for the treatment of multiple conditions. These ventilators offer volumetric ventilation and barometric ventilation modes using single or dual limb circuits. RPT devices typically include a pressure generator (e.g., an electric blower or compressed gas reservoir) and are configured to supply airflow to the patient's airway. In some cases, the airflow may be supplied to the patient's airway under positive pressure. The outlet of the RPT device is connected to a patient interface as described above via an air circuit.

[0030] Device designers may be presented with countless options. Because design criteria often conflict, certain design choices may be far removed from convention, or even unavoidable. Furthermore, the comfort and effectiveness of a particular design can be significantly affected by even minor changes in one or more parameters. 2.2.3.4 Humidifier

[0031] Delivering airflow without humidification can lead to airway dryness. When a humidifier is used with the RPT device and patient interface, humidifying gas is generated, minimizing nasal mucosal dryness and increasing patient airway comfort. Additionally, in cooler climates, adding warm air to the facial area around the patient interface generally provides greater comfort than cool air. While a range of artificial humidification devices and systems are known, they do not meet the specific requirements of medical humidifiers.

[0032] Medical humidifiers are typically used to increase the humidity and / or temperature of an airflow relative to the ambient air as needed, when a patient is sleeping or at rest (e.g., in a hospital). Medical humidifiers placed by the bedside may be small in size. They may be configured to humidify and / or heat only the airflow delivered to the patient, and not the area around the patient. For example, room-based systems (e.g., saunas, air conditioners, or evaporative coolers) can also humidify the air inhaled by the patient, but these systems also humidify and / or heat the entire room, which can be uncomfortable for the occupant. Furthermore, medical humidifiers may have stricter safety constraints than industrial humidifiers.

[0033] Although numerous medical humidifiers are publicly known, these humidifiers may suffer from one or more defects. Specifically, some medical humidifiers may not humidify properly, or they may be difficult or inconvenient for patients to use.

[0034] 2.2.3.5 Data Management For clinical reasons, data may be obtained to determine whether a patient prescribed respiratory therapy is "compliant" (for example, whether the patient is using their RPT device in accordance with specific "compliance rules"). For example, for CPAP therapy, a patient must use their RPT device for at least four hours per night for at least 21 consecutive days out of a 30-day period to be considered compliant. To determine patient compliance, an RPT device provider (e.g., a healthcare provider) may manually collect data describing the patient's treatment with the RPT device, calculate usage rates over a given period, and compare this to the compliance rules. Once a healthcare provider determines that a patient has used their RPT device in accordance with the compliance rules, the healthcare provider may notify third parties that the patient is compliant.

[0035] In patient treatment, there may be other ways in which communication of treatment data to third parties or external systems may be beneficial.

[0036] Existing processes for communicating and managing such data can be costly, time-consuming, and prone to errors. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0037] 3. A brief explanation of the technology This technology relates to the provision of medical devices used in the diagnosis, improvement, treatment, or prevention of respiratory diseases, which have one or more of the following advantages: improved comfort, cost, effectiveness, ease of use, and manufacturability. [Means for solving the problem]

[0038] A first aspect of this technology relates to a device used for the diagnosis, improvement, treatment, or prevention of respiratory diseases.

[0039] Another aspect of this technology relates to a method used in the diagnosis, improvement, treatment, or prevention of respiratory diseases.

[0040] One aspect of a particular form of this technology is to provide a method and / or apparatus for improving patient consent to respiratory therapy.

[0041] One aspect of this technology relates to an RPT device that is constructed and configured to reduce noise output (for example, while maintaining a relatively small size).

[0042] One aspect of this technology relates to an RPT device that includes an inlet having a plurality of inlet tubes (for example, arranged in an array to reduce noise output).

[0043] One aspect of the present technology relates to an RPT device comprising a first chamber, a second chamber, an inlet tube array for delivering air from the inlet to the first chamber, and a flow tube array for delivering air from the first chamber to the second chamber. In one embodiment, the RPT device includes a blower, which is located in the first chamber and constructed and configured to receive air from the second chamber. In one embodiment, the RPT device includes a flow sensor, which is constructed and configured to measure a first pressure in the first chamber and a second pressure in the second chamber to determine the airflow rate. In one embodiment, the inlet tube array is spaced axially away from the flow tube array and is generally parallel to the flow tube array, but one or more tubes in the inlet tube array are not coaxial with one or more tubes in the flow tube array.

[0044] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a device for generating an air supply at positive pressure for the improvement or treatment of respiratory diseases. The device includes a first chamber, a second chamber, at least one inlet tube constructed and configured to allow ambient air to enter the first chamber, at least one flow tube constructed and configured to allow air to move from the first chamber to the second chamber, and a blower constructed and configured to generate an airflow at positive pressure. The blower is located in the first chamber and constructed and configured to receive air from the second chamber. The blower includes a housing constructed and configured to hermetically separate the airflow from the first chamber through the interior of the housing. At least one inlet tube is positioned axially spaced apart from at least one flow tube.

[0045] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a device for generating an air supply at positive pressure for the improvement or treatment of a respiratory disease. The device includes at least one chamber and an inlet tube array including a plurality of inlet tubes constructed and configured to allow ambient air to enter at least one chamber. At least one of the plurality of inlet tubes is positioned adjacent to another inlet tube such that adjacent inlet tubes include at least one common side wall.

[0046] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a device for generating an air supply at positive pressure for the improvement or treatment of a respiratory disease. The device includes at least one chamber, an inlet tube array comprising a plurality of inlet tubes constructed and configured to allow ambient air to enter at least one chamber, and a flow tube array comprising a plurality of flow tubes constructed and configured to allow air to exit at least one chamber. The inlet tube array is spaced axially apart from the flow tube array. The inlet tubes of the inlet tube array include axes that are substantially parallel to the axes of the flow tubes of the flow tube array. At least one of the inlet tubes includes an axis that is axially offset from at least one of the flow tubes.

[0047] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a device for generating an air supply at positive pressure for the improvement or treatment of a respiratory disease. The device comprises at least one chamber and a blower constructed and configured to generate an airflow at positive pressure, the blower being located downstream of the at least one chamber and comprising a blower, a plate assembly including a base plate defining the wall of the at least one chamber, at least one tube constructed and configured to allow air to enter the at least one chamber, and a blower suspension device supporting the blower.

[0048] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a device for generating an air supply at positive pressure for the improvement or treatment of a respiratory disease. The device includes a blower, a housing including an upper and lower part defining at least one chamber, a first plate assembly including a support for the blower, at least one tube constructed and configured to allow air to enter at least one chamber, a second plate assembly including a support for the blower, and at least one tube constructed and configured to allow air to exit at least one chamber. The upper and lower parts are engageable or detachable generally with respect to the axis of the at least one tube of the first plate assembly.

[0049] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a device for generating an air supply at positive pressure for the improvement or treatment of a respiratory disease. The device includes at least one chamber, a blower constructed and configured to generate an airflow at positive pressure, a first plate assembly including a base plate defining the wall of at least one chamber and an outlet end suspension device supporting the blower adjacent to the blower outlet of the blower, and a second plate assembly including a base plate defining the wall of at least one chamber and an inlet end suspension device supporting the blower adjacent to the blower inlet of the blower.

[0050] Another aspect of this technology relates to a device for generating an air supply at positive pressure for the improvement or treatment of respiratory diseases. The device includes a chamber containing an airflow path, a blower located inside the chamber, a printed circuit board located outside the chamber, and a connector constructed and configured to electrically connect the blower and the printed circuit board. The connector is positioned to pass through the chamber without being directly located inside the airflow path.

[0051] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a device for generating an air supply at positive pressure for the improvement or treatment of a respiratory disease. The device includes a housing comprising an upper, lower, and intermediate section between the upper and lower sections, wherein the lower and intermediate sections define a first chamber section including an airflow path, and the upper and intermediate sections define a second chamber outside the airflow path; a blower disposed within the first chamber; and a printed circuit board disposed within the second chamber.

[0052] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a plate assembly for a device that generates an air supply at positive pressure for the improvement or treatment of a respiratory disease. The plate assembly includes a base plate constructed and configured to define the walls of a chamber, a plurality of tubes provided on the base plate, the plurality of tubes constructed and configured to allow air to enter and exit the chamber, and a blower suspension device provided on the base plate, constructed and configured to support the end of a blower.

[0053] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a device for generating an air supply at positive pressure for the improvement or treatment of respiratory diseases. The device includes a housing, which includes a housing inlet and a housing outlet, and internal components provided in the housing. These internal components include at least a blower constructed and configured to generate an airflow at positive pressure. The housing and internal components cooperate to form an airflow path having a generally U-shape, extending from the housing inlet to the housing outlet. In one embodiment, the blower includes a blower inlet and a blower outlet. The airflow path extends from the housing inlet to the blower inlet and from the blower outlet to the housing outlet. The housing includes ends providing both the housing inlet and the housing outlet. The blower is provided along a U-shaped leg (for example, along a U-shaped outlet leg extending from the housing outlet). The blower includes a U-shaped airflow path that extends generally coaxially with and / or substantially in the same plane as the axis of the U-shaped outlet leg.

[0054] A particular form of this technology is a medical device that is easy to use for, for example, a person who has not received medical training, a person who is not very dexterous, or a person with limited experience using this type of medical device.

[0055] One embodiment of this technology is a portable RPT device that can be carried by a person (for example, around their home).

[0056] Of course, some of the above embodiments may form sub- embodiments of the present technology. Furthermore, various sub- embodiments and / or embodiments can be combined in various ways to constitute further embodiments or sub-embodiments of the present technology.

[0057] Other features of this technology will become apparent from the information contained in the following detailed description, abstract, drawings, and claims. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0058] 4. Brief Description of the Drawings This technology is illustrated non-limitingly as an example in the attached drawings. In the drawings, similar reference numerals include the following similar elements:

[0059] 4.1 Treatment System [Figure 1A] Figure 1A shows a system including patient 1000 wearing patient interface 3000. This system takes the form of a nasal pillow and receives positive-pressure air supplied from RPT device 4000. The air from the RPT device is humidified by humidifier 5000 and travels to patient 1000 along air circuit 4170. A person sleeping with patient 1100 is also illustrated. [Figure 1B] Figure 1B shows a system including patient 1000 wearing patient interface 3000. This system takes the form of a nasal mask and receives positive-pressure air supplied from RPT device 4000. The air from the RPT device is humidified by humidifier 5000 and travels to patient 1000 along air circuit 4170. [Figure 1C] Figure 1C shows a system including a patient 1000 wearing a patient interface 3000. The patient interface 3000 takes a full-face mask and receives a positive-pressure air supply from an RPT device 4000. The air from the RPT device is humidified by a humidifier 5000 and travels to the patient 1000 along an air circuit 4170.

[0060] 4.2 Anatomical Structure of the Respiratory System and Face [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows an overview of the human respiratory system, including the nose and oral cavity, larynx, vocal cord folds, esophagus, trachea, bronchi, lungs, alveolar sacs, heart, and diaphragm.

[0061] 4.3 Patient Interface [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows a patient interface in the form of a nasal mask, representing one embodiment of this technology.

[0062] 4.4 RPT Devices [Figure 4A] Figure 4A is a perspective view of an RPT device according to one form of the technology. [Figure 4B] Figure 4B is another perspective view of the RPT device shown in Figure 4A. [Figure 4C] Figure 4C is a perspective view of the RPT device shown in Figure 4A with the intermediate cover and housing removed. [Figure 4D] Figure 4D is another perspective view of the RPT device shown in Figure 4A with the intermediate cover and housing removed. [Figure 4E] Figure 4E is a top view of the RPT device shown in Figure 4A with the intermediate cover and housing removed. [Figure 4F] Figure 4F is an exploded view of the components of the RPT device shown in Figures 4C to 4E. [Figure 4G] Figure 4G is a further exploded view of the RPT device components shown in Figures 4C to 4E. [Figure 4H] Figure 4H is an exploded view of the RPT device shown in Figure 4A. [Figure 4I] Figure 4I is a cross-sectional view of the RPT device shown in Figure 4A. [Figure 4J] Figure 4J is an exploded cross-sectional view of the RPT device shown in Figure 4A. [Figure 4K] Figure 4K is a magnified view of the RPT device in Figure 4J. [Figure 4L]Figure 4L is a magnified view of the RPT device shown in Figure 4J. [Figure 4M] Figure 4M is a perspective view of a first plate assembly for an RPT device according to one embodiment of the present technology. [Figure 4N] Figure 4N is a cross-sectional view of the first plate assembly shown in Figure 4M. [Figure 4O] Figure 4O is a perspective view of a second plate assembly for an RPT device according to one embodiment of this technology. [Figure 4P] Figure 4P is another perspective view of the second plate assembly shown in Figure 4O. [Figure 4Q] Figure 4Q is a top view showing the arrangement configuration of the first and second plate assemblies for an RPT device according to one embodiment of the present technology. [Figure 4R] Figure 4R is a cross-sectional view taken through the line 4R-4R in Figure 4Q. [Figure 4S] Figure 4S is a schematic diagram of an inlet tube array for an RPT device according to one embodiment of this technology. [Figure 4T] Figure 4T is a schematic diagram of an inlet tube array for an RPT device according to one embodiment of this technology. [Figure 4U] Figure 4U is a schematic diagram of an inlet tube array for an RPT device according to one embodiment of this technology. [Figure 4V] Figure 4V is a schematic diagram of an algorithm executed in an RPT device according to one embodiment of this technology. [Figure 4W1] Figure 4W1 is a perspective view of an external battery for powering an RPT device according to one embodiment of this technology. [Figure 4W2] Figure 4W2 is another perspective view of the external battery shown in Figure 4W1. [Figure 4X1] Figure 4X1 is a perspective view showing one embodiment of this technology, where the external battery in Figure 4W1 is engaged with the RPT device in Figure 4A. [Figure 4X2]Figure 4X2 is another perspective view of the external battery and RPT device shown in Figure 4X1. [Figure 4Y1] Figure 4Y1 is a perspective view showing one embodiment of this technology, where the external battery in Figure 4W1 is engaged with the RPT device in Figure 4A. [Figure 4Y2] Figure 4Y2 is another perspective view of the external battery and RPT device shown in Figure 4Y1.

[0063] 4.5 Humidifier [Figure 5A] Figure 5A is an isometric view of a humidifier according to one embodiment of this technology. [Figure 5B] Figure 5B is an isometric view of a humidifier according to one embodiment of this technology, showing the humidifier reservoir 5110 removed from the humidifier reservoir dock 5130. [Figure 5C] Figure 5C is a schematic diagram of a humidifier according to one embodiment of this technology.

[0064] 4.6 Respiratory waveform [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows a typical respiratory waveform in a human sleep model. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0065] 5. Detailed Description of the Technology's Embodiments Before describing the technology in further detail, it should be understood that the technology is not limited to the specific embodiments which may differ as described herein. It should also be understood that the terms used in this disclosure are for the purpose of describing the specific embodiments described herein and are not limiting.

[0066] The following description is provided in relation to a variety of embodiments that may share one or more common properties and / or features. It should be understood that one or more features of any one embodiment may be combined with one or more features of another embodiment or any other embodiment. In addition, any single feature or combination of features in any of these embodiments may constitute a further embodiment.

[0067] 5.1 Treatment In one embodiment, the technology includes a method for treating respiratory diseases. The method includes the step of applying positive pressure to the airway entrance of 1000 patients.

[0068] In certain embodiments of this technology, a positive pressure air supply is provided to the patient's nasal passages through one or both nostrils.

[0069] In certain embodiments of this technology, mouth breathing is restricted, limited, or prevented.

[0070] 5.2 Treatment System In one embodiment, the technology includes an apparatus or device for the treatment of respiratory diseases. The apparatus or device may include an RPT device 4000 or 8000 that supplies compressed air to a patient 1000 via an air circuit 4170 to a patient interface 3000.

[0071] 5.3 Patient Interface As shown in Figure 3, a non-invasive patient interface 3000 according to one aspect of the present technology includes the following functional modes: a sealing forming structure 3100, a plenum chamber 3200, a positioning and stabilizing structure 3300, a vent 3400, a connection port 3600 in one form for connection to an air circuit 4170, and a forehead support 3700. In some embodiments, the functional modes may be provided by one or more physical components. In some embodiments, one physical component may provide one or more functional modes. When in use, the sealing forming structure 3100 is positioned to surround the entrance to the patient's airway to facilitate positive pressure air supply to the airway.

[0072] 5.3.1 Closed formation structure In one embodiment of this technology, the sealing structure 3100 may provide a sealing surface and further provide a cushioning function.

[0073] The sealed structure 3100 produced by this technology may be made of a soft, flexible, and elastic material (for example, silicone).

[0074] In one embodiment, the sealing portion of the non-invasive patient interface 3000 includes a pair of nasal puffs or nasal pillows. Each nasal puff or nasal pillow is configured and positioned to form a seal with each nostril of the patient's nose.

[0075] In one embodiment, the non-invasive patient interface 3000 includes a sealing portion that forms a seal on the upper lip region (i.e., the upper lip) of the patient's face.

[0076] In one embodiment, the non-invasive patient interface 3000 includes a sealing portion that forms a seal on the jaw region of the patient's face.

[0077] 5.3.2 Plenum Chamber The plenum chamber 3200 has a perimeter shape that is complementary to the surface contour of an average human face in the area where a seal is formed during use. During use, the peripheral edge of the plenum chamber 3200 is positioned close to the adjacent surface of the face. Actual contact with the face is provided by the seal-forming structure 3100. The seal-forming structure 3100 may extend around the entire perimeter of the plenum chamber 3200 during use. 5.3.3 Positioning and stabilization structure

[0078] The sealing structure 3100 of the patient interface 3000 of this technology can be held in a sealed position by the positioning and stabilizing structure 3300 during use.

[0079] In one embodiment of the present technology, a positioning and stabilizing structure 3300 is provided, configured to be worn by a patient while sleeping. In one embodiment, the positioning and stabilizing structure 3300 has an inconspicuous shape or cross-sectional thickness to reduce the perceived or actual bulk of the device. In one embodiment, the positioning and stabilizing structure 3300 includes at least one strap having a rectangular cross-section. In one embodiment, the positioning and stabilizing structure 3300 includes at least one flat strap.

[0080] In one embodiment of this technology, the positioning and stabilizing structure 3300 includes a strap composed of a laminate of a woven patient contact layer, a foamed inner layer, and a woven outer layer. In one embodiment, the foamed material is porous so that moisture (e.g., sweat) can pass through the strap. In one embodiment, the woven outer layer includes a loop material that engages with a hook material portion.

[0081] In certain forms of this technology, the positioning and stabilizing structure 3300 includes an extendable (e.g., extendable with elasticity) strap. For example, the strap may be configured to be taut when in use, directing the force that brings the cushion into close contact with a portion of the patient's face. In one embodiment, the strap may be configured as a tie.

[0082] In certain embodiments of this technology, the positioning and stabilizing structure 3300 includes a flexible and, for example, non-rigid strap. An advantage of this embodiment is that the strap is more comfortable when the patient lies down while sleeping.

[0083] 5.3.4 Ventilation In one embodiment, the patient interface 3000 includes a vent 3400 configured and positioned to allow the expulsion of exhaled gases (e.g., carbon dioxide).

[0084] One form of the ventilation section 3400 according to this technology includes a plurality of holes (for example, about 20 to about 80 holes, or about 40 to about 60 holes, or about 45 to about 55 holes).

[0085] The ventilation section 3400 may be located within the plenum chamber 3200. Alternatively, the ventilation section 3400 may be located within a non-interlocking structure (e.g., a swivel joint).

[0086] 5.3.5 Decoupled Structures (Singular or Multiple) In one embodiment, the patient interface 3000 includes at least one non-interlocking structure (e.g., a rotatable joint or a bulbous fossa).

[0087] 5.3.6 Connection Ports Connection port 3600 allows connection to the air circuit 4170.

[0088] 5.3.7 Forehead support In one configuration, the patient interface 3000 includes a forehead support 3700.

[0089] 5.3.8 Suffocation prevention valve In one configuration, the patient interface 3000 includes an asphyxiation prevention valve.

[0090] 5.3.9 Ports In one embodiment of this technology, the patient interface 3000 includes one or more ports that allow access to the volume within the plenum chamber 3200. In one embodiment, this allows a clinician to supply supplemental oxygen. In another embodiment, this allows for direct measurement of the gas (e.g., pressure) within the plenum chamber 3200.

[0091] 5.4 RPT Devices An RPT device according to one aspect of this technology includes mechanical and pneumatic components, and electrical components, and is configured to execute one or more algorithms.

[0092] Figures 4A to 4R show an RPT device 8000 according to one embodiment of the present technology. As shown, the RPT device 8000 includes an external housing 8010 including an upper or upper housing portion 8012 and a lower or lower housing portion 8014, a first end 8016 including a housing inlet 8018 and a housing outlet 8020, and a second end 8022 providing an end cover including a face plate 8024.

[0093] The housing 8010 supports and / or surrounds the internal components of the RPT device 8000 (e.g., the blower 8030, the intermediate cover 8040, the first plate assembly 8050, the second plate assembly 8060, and the printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) 8070, which includes the main printed circuit board (main PCB) 8072 and the second printed circuit board (second PCB) 8074).

[0094] The internal components of the housing 8010 and the RPT device 8000 work together to form a pneumatic airflow path or pneumatic block. The pneumatic airflow path or pneumatic block extends from the housing inlet 8018 to the blower inlet 8032 of the blower 8030, and from the blower outlet 8034 of the blower 8030 to the housing outlet 8020.

[0095] In one embodiment, the housing and internal components cooperate to form an airflow path having a generally U-shape extending from the housing inlet to the housing outlet. For example, the U-shaped airflow path may include an inlet leg extending from the housing inlet, an outlet leg extending from the housing outlet, and a connecting leg that interconnects the inlet leg and the outlet leg. In one embodiment, the inlet leg and the outlet leg are generally parallel to each other. In one embodiment, the blower is mounted along the U-shaped leg (for example, along the U-shaped outlet leg extending from the housing outlet). In one embodiment, the blower includes an axis that is generally coaxial with the axis of the U-shaped outlet leg. In one embodiment, the U-shaped airflow path extends substantially in the same plane.

[0096] The RPT device 8000 is configured and structured to reduce noise output while maintaining a relatively small size.

[0097] In the illustrated embodiment, the RPT device 8000 provides two chambers (i.e., a first chamber 8001 and a second chamber 8002). The first chamber 8001 is relatively larger than the second chamber 8002. As shown, a blower 8030 is supported within the first chamber 8001 and receives air from the second chamber 8002 (i.e., a blower located downstream of the chamber and its blower inlet) at the blower inlet 8032. The first plate assembly 8050 and the second plate assembly 8060 define at least a portion of the first chamber 8001 and the second chamber 8002, and the first plate assembly 8050 and the second plate assembly 8060 include blower suspension devices 8054 and 8064, respectively. The blower suspension units 8054 and 8064 support the blower 8030 in the first chamber 8001 and seal the airflow from the inside of the blower 8030 through the first chamber 8001. In addition, the first plate assembly 8050 and the second plate assembly 8060 each include at least one tube (e.g., an inlet tube array 8052 and a flow tube array 8062, respectively) so that air enters and exits the first chamber 8001 through at least one tube to reduce noise.

[0098] In the best embodiment shown in Figure 4E, the airflow path of the RPT device 8000 is structured and arranged such that air enters the housing 8010 through the housing inlet 8018, passes through the inlet tube array 8052 provided by the first plate assembly 8050, and flows into the first chamber 8001. The first chamber 8001 receives air from the inlet tube array 8052 and delivers it to the flow tube array 8062 provided by the second plate assembly 8060. The air passes through the flow tube array 8062 and flows into the second chamber 8002. The second chamber 8002 receives air from the flow tube array 8062 and delivers the air to the blower inlet 8032 of the blower 8030. The airflow passes through the blower 8030 so that the airflow under positive pressure is directed to the blower outlet 8034 of the blower 8030, and this pressurized air exits the housing 8010 through the housing outlet 8020.

[0099] In one embodiment, a flow sensor may be provided on the RPT device 8000 and may be constructed and configured to measure a first pressure in a first chamber 8001 and a second pressure in a second chamber 8002 to determine the airflow rate. Using the first and second pressures, the flow rate can be determined based on the configuration of the flow tube array 8062 (e.g., pressure drop and / or aerodynamic impedance).

[0100] 5.4.1 RPT Devices: Mechanical and Pneumatic Components An RPT device may include one or more of the following components in a single unit. In another configuration, one or more of the following components may be arranged as separate units.

[0101] 5.4.1.1 Housing As best shown in Figures 4H to 4K, the upper housing portion 8012 of the housing 8010 includes a first portion or base mold 8012A made of a relatively rigid material (e.g., polypropylene) and a second portion or overmold 8012B made of a relatively soft material (e.g., thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or silicone) and provided on the first portion 8012A (e.g., by an overmold). In the illustrated embodiment, the overmold 8012B is provided on the outer surface of the base mold 8012A, however, it should be understood that the overmold 8012B may be provided on the interior and / or exterior surface of the base mold 8012A. The softness of the overmold 8012B may provide a desirable tactile feel to the user of the RPT device 8000. The overmold 8012B may include a high-attenuation material that provides attenuation characteristics to improve impact resistance and reduce wall-radiated noise.

[0102] As best shown in Figures 4A, 4B, 4H, 4J, and 4K, the upper housing portion 8012 includes an on / off or power button 8003 and a wireless (e.g., Bluetooth®) connection button 8004, which are constructed and configured to interact with the PCBA 8070, respectively. However, it should be understood that the RPT device 8000 may include additional and / or alternative input devices (e.g., one or more buttons, switches, dials, or touchscreens) for the user to interact with the device.

[0103] In the illustrated embodiment, as best shown in Figures 4H, 4J, and 4K, the base mold 8012A provides a groove around the side of the cantilever button portion 8003 of the power button 8003, allowing the button portion 8003A to flex relative to the base mold 8012A. The overmolding 8012B provides the button portion 8003B, including the raised portion of the power button 8003, and the webbing within the groove around the side of the button portion 8003A. The raised portion and webbing of the button portion 8003B provide a soft feel for ease of use, as well as grip and spring (button return) force. Regarding the wireless (Bluetooth® registered trademark) connection button 8004, the base mold 8012A provides the opening 8004A, and the overmolding 8012B provides the button portion 8004B, which provides a soft feel for ease of use, as well as grip and spring (button return) force.

[0104] The lower housing portion 8014 of the housing 8010 includes a first portion or base mold 8014A made of a relatively rigid material (e.g., polypropylene) and a second portion or overmold 8014B made of a relatively soft material (e.g., TPE or silicone) provided on the first portion 8014A (e.g., by an overmold). In the illustrated embodiment, the overmold 8014B is provided on the outer surface of the base mold 8014A, but it should be understood that the overmold 8014B may be provided on the interior and / or exterior surface of the base mold 8014A. The softness of the overmold 8014B may provide a desirable tactile feel to the user of the RPT device 8000. The overmold 8014B may include a high-attenuation material that improves impact resistance and provides attenuation characteristics for reducing wall-radiated noise.

[0105] As best shown in Figures 4F, 4G, and 4L, the lower housing portion 8014 includes an internal slot 8015A (formed, for example, by spaced side walls) and a first plate assembly 8050 and internal slot 8015B (formed, for example, by spaced side walls). The internal slot 8015A is constructed and configured to receive the first plate assembly 8050 along one end. The internal slot 8015B is constructed and configured to receive and support the second plate assembly 8060 along the other end.

[0106] The internal blower support section (e.g., internal rib 8017) is constructed of a relatively soft, high-damping material (e.g., TPE or silicone) and is provided on the lower housing section 8014 (e.g., by overmolding). See, for example, Figures 4F and 4I. The internal rib 8017 is positioned axially spaced between slots 8015A and 8015B and is constructed and configured to at least partially surround the blower 8030 to provide support, impact resistance, and / or damping properties for the blower 8030. One or more additional internal blower support sections (e.g., additional ribs) may be provided at other locations on the housing, for example, to provide impact resistance and / or damping properties. The internal blower support sections may be provided in other forms (e.g., as bumps or plates).

[0107] The housing 8010 of the RPT device 8000 may include guide members to facilitate the alignment and connection of the RPT device 8000 with one or more complementary components of the respiratory therapy system (e.g., a humidifier 5000 and / or an external battery 9000 for powering the RPT device 8000). For example, the lower housing portion 8014 includes rails 8019 on each side. In one embodiment, the rails 8019 may also facilitate the alignment and connection of the upper housing portion 8012 and the lower housing portion 8014 and / or facilitate the handling / grip of the RPT device 8000.

[0108] Each rail 8019 may define or include a travel path for complementary components of the RPT device 8000. This travel path may take the form of, for example, an elongated rectangular recess as shown in Figure 4H or an elongated longitudinal projection as shown in Figure 4X1. Of course, other forms may also be appropriate.

[0109] One or more of the rails 8019 may include a retaining mechanism for latching the RPT device 8000 (e.g., recessed slots 8110 as shown in Figures 4X1 and 4X2). This retaining mechanism may also be used to disengage the RPT device from complementary components connected to the RPT device.

[0110] In some configurations, each rail 8019 may be configured for relative movement to complementary rollers, bearings, or guides. Alternatively, it should be understood that the RPT device 8000 may include rollers, bearings, or guides for engagement with rails positioned on complementary components.

[0111] The upper housing portion 8012 and the lower housing portion 8014 can be connected to each other in any suitable manner (e.g., mechanical fasteners, mechanical couplings and / or snap-fit ​​connections).

[0112] The first end 8016 is supported by the upper housing portion 8012 and the lower housing portion 8014 (for example, by mechanical fasteners, mechanical couplings and / or snap-fit ​​connections). The first end 8016 is supported adjacent to the first plate assembly 8050 such that the housing inlet 8018 is constructed and configured to connect with the inlet tube array 8052 of the first plate assembly 8050 and the housing outlet 8020 is constructed and configured to connect with the outlet bellows 8056 of the first plate assembly 8050, as will be further detailed below.

[0113] The first end 8016 includes a cover plate 8021 with a plurality of openings 8023 providing a housing inlet 8018. The plurality of openings 8023 allow for sufficient airflow while avoiding the intrusion of larger objects. A recessed opening 8025 (see, for example, Figures 4F and 4G) is provided in the first end 8016, which is connected to the plurality of openings 8023. The recessed opening 8025 interfaces with an inlet tube array 8052 provided in the first plate assembly 8050, thereby directing airflow through the plurality of openings 8023 and opening 8025 to the inlet tube array 8052, which communicates with the first chamber 8001.

[0114] The housing outlet 8020 includes a tubular portion 8026 (e.g., a cuff for the air delivery tube) constructed and configured to receive and hold the end of the air circuit 4170. The tubular portion 8026 and the end of the air circuit can be connected to each other in any suitable manner (e.g., mechanical coupling, snap-fit ​​coupling and / or friction fitting). The interior of the tubular portion 8026 is constructed and configured to communicate with the outlet bellows 8056 of the first plate assembly 8050, thereby enabling the end of the air circuit 4170 to engage with the outlet bellows 8056, which communicates with the blower outlet 8034 of the blower 8030, and to form a seal on the outlet bellows 8056, thereby forming a seal on the air path. Further embodiments and details of the connection of the air circuit to the outlet of the RPT device are disclosed in U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 130,813 (filed March 10, 2015), which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0115] The first end 8016 also includes an opening or tube portion 8027 constructed and configured to receive and hold the end of an electrical plug. The tube portion 8027 and the end of the electrical plug can be connected to each other in any suitable manner (e.g., mechanical coupling, snap-fit ​​coupling and / or friction fitting). The interior of the tube portion 8027 is constructed and configured to communicate with an electrical socket 8080, thereby enabling the end of the electrical plug to electrically engage with the electrical socket 8080 and to supply power to the RPT device 8000.

[0116] The second end 8022 is supported by the upper housing portion 8012 and the lower housing portion 8014, and is connected to the upper housing portion 8012 and the lower housing portion 8014 by, for example, mechanical fasteners, mechanical couplings and / or snap-fit ​​connections. The second end 8022 works in cooperation with the internal wall 8028 (i.e., provided by the lower housing portion 8014 and the intermediate cover 8040) to define an internal chamber portion 8006 (see, for example, Figure 4I) constructed and configured to receive the second PCB 8074. The internal chamber portion 8006 is outside the air passage.

[0117] 5.4.1.2 Blower In the illustrated embodiment, the blower 8030 of the RPT device 8000 includes a three-stage design constructed and configured to generate a flow or air supply at a positive pressure of 45–50 cmH2O (e.g., in the range of 2–50 cmH2O (e.g., 3–45 cmH2O, 4–30 cmH2O)). However, in alternative embodiments, the blower 8030 may also include a single-stage design, a two-stage design, or a design with four or more stages.

[0118] As best shown in Figure 4I, the blower 8030 includes a housing 8031 ​​which includes an axial air inlet (blower inlet) 8032 and an axial air outlet (blower outlet) 8034. Between the axial air inlet (blower inlet) 8032 and the axial air outlet (blower outlet) 8034 are arranged a three-stage configuration with three corresponding impellers 8033A, 8033B, and 8033C (i.e., a first impeller 8033A and a second impeller 8033B located on one side of the motor 8035, and a third impeller 8033C located on the other side of the motor 8035). However, other suitable impeller configurations are possible. Following each impeller is a pair of stator vanes constructed and configured to direct the airflow to the next stage.

[0119] In the illustrated embodiment, the blower 8030 is supported within a first chamber 8001, and the blower housing 8031 ​​is relatively rigid and constructed and configured to hermetically separate the airflow from the first chamber 8001 through the interior of the blower 8030. In one embodiment, the housing 8031 ​​may include a plurality of housing parts (e.g., a first housing part including an inlet 8032, a second housing part including an outlet 8034, and an intermediate housing part (e.g., a stationary component providing stator vanes that direct the airflow). These intermediate housing parts are interconnected (e.g., by welding) to form a substantially sealed structure.

[0120] Further embodiments and details of the blower 8030 are described in PCT Patent Application Publication WO2013 / 020167, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0121] As will be further detailed below, the first plate assembly 8050 and the second plate assembly 8060 each include blower suspension devices 8054 and 8064. The blower suspension devices 8054 and 8064 work together to support the blower 8030 within the housing 8010, providing sealing of the air path, isolation of blower vibrations, and shock resistance. The blower suspension devices 8054 and 8064 may provide additional springs and damping to enable vibration isolation and shock resistance. Specifically, the first plate assembly 8050 provides an outlet end suspension device 8054 that supports the blower 8030 adjacent to the blower outlet 8034, and the second plate assembly 8060 provides an inlet end suspension device 8064 that supports the blower 8030 adjacent to the blower inlet 8032 (i.e., suspension devices are provided at each end of the blower 8030).

[0122] 5.4.1.3 Intermediate Cover The intermediate cover 8040 (also called the intermediate housing portion of the housing) is supported between the upper housing portion 8012 and the lower housing portion 8014 of the housing 8010. The intermediate cover 8040 is constructed and configured to define at least a portion of the air passage (e.g., the upper and side portions of the air passage) and to define at least a portion of the internal chamber portion outside the air passage that receives the PCBA 8070.

[0123] Similar to the lower housing portion 8014 described above, the intermediate cover 8040 includes an internal slot 8042A (formed, for example, by spaced-out side walls) and an internal slot 8042B (formed, for example, by spaced-out side walls). The internal slot 8042A is constructed and configured to receive the first plate assembly 8050 along one end. The internal slot 8042B is constructed and configured to receive and support the second plate assembly 8060 along the other end. See, for example, Figures 4H and 4L. Thus, the intermediate cover 8040 works in cooperation with the lower housing portion 8014 to support and hold the first plate assembly 8050 and the second plate assembly 8060 within the RPT device 8000.

[0124] In the illustrated embodiment, the intermediate cover 8040 may constitute the upper part, and the lower housing portion 8014 may constitute the lower part, and these upper and lower parts are engageable or detachable generally normal to the axes of the inlet tubes 8055 / flow tubes 8065 of the first plate assembly 8050 and the second plate assembly 8060, and / or generally in-plane or parallel to the base plates 8051 and 8061. In one embodiment, these upper and lower parts are engageable or detachable generally normal to the axis of at least one tube of the first plate assembly 8050.

[0125] The intermediate cover 8040 also includes an end wall 8028A that works in cooperation with the end wall 8028B of the lower housing portion 8014 to define the internal wall 8028. See, for example, Figures 4I and 4L. The internal wall 8028 separates the airflow path from the internal chamber portion 8006 configured to receive the second PCB 8074. See, for example, Figure 4I. The main wall 8044 of the intermediate cover 8040 works in cooperation with the upper housing portion 8012 to define the internal chamber portion 8007 that receives the main PCB 8072. See, for example, Figure 4I. Thus, the intermediate cover 8040 defines the internal chamber portions 8006 and 8007 outside the airflow path that receives the main PCB 8072 and the second PCB 8074.

[0126] The intermediate cover 8040 defines the upper, lower, and lateral portions of the first chamber 8001 and the second chamber 8002, together with the lower housing portion 8014 and the first plate assembly 8050 and the second plate assembly 8060, and defines a pneumatic air path extending to the blower inlet 8032 of the blower 8030.

[0127] In the illustrated embodiment, the intermediate cover 8040 includes a first portion or base mold 8040A made of a relatively rigid material (e.g., polypropylene) and a second portion or overmold 8040B made of a relatively flexible material (e.g., TPE or silicone) and provided on the first portion 8040A (e.g., by an overmold). In the illustrated embodiment, the overmold 8040B is provided on the inner surface of the base mold 8040A (i.e., the overmold 8040B is provided along the airflow path). The overmold 8040B provides attenuation characteristics that reduce wall-radiated noise. However, it should be understood that the overmold 8040B may be provided on the interior and / or exterior surface of the base mold 8040A.

[0128] Furthermore, the overmolded 8040B extends along the edge of the intermediate cover 8040. The intermediate cover 8040 cooperates with a sealing section (e.g., TPE or silicone) provided along the side wall edge of the lower housing portion 8014 to seal the air passage.

[0129] 5.4.1.4 First Plate Assembly As best shown in Figures 4M, 4N, and 4I, the first plate assembly 8050 includes a base plate 8051, an inlet tube array 8052, a tube section 8053 including a blower suspension (outlet end suspension) 8054 along one end, and an outlet bellows 8056 along the other end. The tube section 8053 includes an opening 8053A (see, for example, Figure 4N) communicating with a pressure port 8058. In addition, a seal lip or seal flange 8059 is provided along the edge or periphery of the base plate 8051.

[0130] In one embodiment, the base plate 8051, inlet tube array 8052 and tube portion 8053 include a first portion or base mold made of a relatively rigid material (e.g., polypropylene), a blower suspension device 8054, an outlet bellows 8056 and a pressure port 8058, and the seal lip 8059 includes a second portion or overmold made of a relatively soft material (e.g., TPE or silicone) provided on the first portion (e.g., by an overmold).

[0131] As described above, the first plate assembly 8050 is supported between the intermediate cover 8040 and the lower housing portion 8014 (i.e., the base plate 8051 is supported within the internal slots 8042A and 8015A provided by the intermediate cover 8040 and the lower housing portion 8014). The base plate 8051 defines the wall of the first chamber 8001, and a seal lip 8059 along the periphery of the base plate 8051 provides a seal along the edge of the first chamber 8001.

[0132] The blower suspension device 8054 of the first plate assembly 8050 takes the form of an outlet end suspension device and supports blower 8030 adjacent to the blower outlet 8034 of blower 8030. The outlet end suspension device 8054 (made of an elastomer material such as TPE or silicone, for example) includes a first end 8054A provided on the tube portion 8053 (for example by overmolding), a second end 8054B engaged with or otherwise fixed to the blower outlet 8034 of blower 8030, and a gusset portion 8054C extending radially outward between the first end 8054A and the second end 8054B.

[0133] The second end 8054B can be fixed to the blower 8030 in any suitable manner (for example, wrapped around an outlet flange provided at the blower outlet 8034 as shown in Figure 4I). The blower suspension 8054 seals the blower outlet 8034 with respect to the tube portion 8053, thereby sealing the air path for air from the first chamber 8001 to exit through the blower outlet 8034. Additionally, the gusset portion 8054C of the blower suspension 8054 provides flexibility and relative movement for vibration isolation and shock resistance of the blower 8030.

[0134] As described above, the outlet bellows 8056 of the first plate assembly 8050 is provided within the tube portion 8026 of the housing outlet 8020 and is constructed and configured to form a seal with the end of the air circuit 4170 (e.g., the cuff of the air delivery tube). The outlet bellows 8056 (made of an elastomer material such as TPE or silicone) includes an end 8056A provided to the tube portion 8053 (e.g., by overmolding) and a bellows portion 8056B that curves radially inward from the end 8056A. Since the bellows portion 8056B is flexible, the end of the air circuit engages with the bellows portion 8056B to form a seal. As shown in Figure 4M, spaced-apart partial projections 8056C may be provided around the outlet bellows 8056B, for example, to add rigidity to the base of the outlet bellows 8056B.

[0135] The pressure port 8058 may be integrated with the blower suspension device 8054 and constructed and configured to interface with or otherwise connect to a pressure sensor.

[0136] The inlet tube array 8052 includes a plurality of inlet tubes 8055 constructed and configured to extend from the base plate 8051 into the first chamber 8001. For example, the inlet tubes 8055 extend generally perpendicular to the base plate 8051. In the illustrated embodiment, the inlet tube array 8052 provides a first end 8052A. The first end 8052A protrudes slightly from one side of the base plate 8051 to interface with a recessed opening 8025 in the first end 8016 of the housing 8010. As shown, the shape of the recessed opening 8025 corresponds to the shape of the first end 8052A along its outer circumference. A second end 8052B of the inlet tube array 8052 protrudes from the other side of the base plate 8051 to extend into the first chamber 8001. Therefore, the airflow path extends from the housing inlet 8018 through the inlet tube array 8052 into the first chamber 8001.

[0137] This configuration reduces the noise output of the RPT device 8000 by increasing the acoustic impedance through the inlet tube 8055 while maintaining high inertance. In one embodiment, a longer inlet tube 8055 may be preferable for noise reduction (due to higher inertance), and the length of the inlet tube 8055 may be adjusted or selected to match the specific noise frequency characteristics of the RPT device 8000.

[0138] In one embodiment, the length of the inlet tube 8055 may be configured so as not to interact unfavorably with any high-amplitude noise frequency. For example, the length of the inlet tube 8055 may be adjusted so as not to coincide with a quarter or half waveform of any peak in the blower's noise spectrum. Peaks in the blower's noise spectrum (i.e., sound peaks) may be caused by one or more of the following: bearing defects, blade pass-through, turbulence, and structural resonance.

[0139] In the illustrated embodiment, each of the multiple inlet tubes 8055 has a non-circular cross-sectional shape (e.g., a hexagonal cross-sectional shape), and the multiple inlet tubes 8055 are arranged adjacent to each other to form an inlet tube array 8052. That is, the inlet tubes 8055 are arranged adjacent to each other such that adjacent tubes share at least one side wall or side wall portion (i.e., adjacent tubes include at least one common side wall or side wall portion). As shown in the illustration, adjacent tubes 8055 are separated by thin walls to efficiently package the inlet tube array 8052. By using multiple relatively small inlet tubes 8055, it may also be possible to further promote laminar flow through these inlet tubes 8055.

[0140] In one embodiment, each of the multiple inlet tubes 8055 may include a draft angle that allows the mold to be withdrawn from the tube during the molding process. Such a draft angle can be in either direction (i.e., converging away from the base plate 8051 or converging toward the base plate 8051).

[0141] In one embodiment, each of the multiple inlet tubes 8055 has a length of approximately 35-55 mm (for example, approximately 40-50 mm, for example, approximately 43 mm), a wall thickness of approximately 1 mm, and a distance between opposite sides (diameter) of approximately 3-5 mm (for example, approximately 3.5-4.5 mm, for example, approximately 4.33 mm). Therefore, the cross-sectional area of ​​each hexagonal tube 8055 is approximately 10-20 mm². 2 (For example, approximately 16.2 mm) 2) and the total cross-sectional area of ​​all 8055 inlet tubes is approximately 100-130 mm². 2 (For example, approximately 110-120 mm) 2 (For example, approximately 114mm) 2 )) is possible. However, it should be understood that other suitable lengths, wall thicknesses, side-to-side distances (diameters), and cross-sectional areas of the 8055 tube are possible, depending on the desired noise characteristics, for example.

[0142] In the illustrated embodiment, the inlet tube array 8052 includes seven inlet tubes 8055, with six inlet tubes arranged around a central inlet tube. However, it should be understood that other suitable numbers of tubes 8055 (e.g., one or more inlet tubes, e.g., five to ten inlet tubes) are possible, and the tubes 8055 may be arranged in other suitable manners (e.g., spaced apart or aligned in rows).

[0143] Each of the multiple inlet tubes 8055 may be configured as a single part or may consist of multiple parts. For example, each inlet tube 8055 may include an outer tube and an inlet throttle valve configured to vary the diameter of this tube.

[0144] The multiple inlet tubes 8055 may include inlet tubes of equal and / or unequal lengths. The multiple inlet tubes 8055 may include inclined shapes at one or more ends.

[0145] Furthermore, each of the multiple inlet tubes 8055 may include other cross-sectional shapes (e.g., circular or non-circular shapes (e.g., square, rectangular)). In the illustrated embodiment, the inlet tube array 8052 includes a non-circular outer circumference. However, the outer circumference shape of the inlet tube array 8052 may also include other suitable shapes (e.g., circular or non-circular shapes).

[0146] For example, Figures 4S to 4U show alternative configurations of the inlet tube array 8052. In Figure 4S, the inlet tube array 52A includes each inlet tube with a circular outer perimeter that is square or truncated square in shape. In Figure 4T, the inlet tube array 52B includes each inlet tube with a circular outer perimeter that is hexagonal or truncated hexagonal in shape. In Figure 4U, the inlet tube array 52C includes each inlet tube with a square outer perimeter that is square in shape.

[0147] 5.4.1.5 Second Plate Assembly As best shown in Figures 4O and 4P, the second plate assembly 8060 includes a base plate 8061, a flow tube array 8062, and a blower suspension (outlet end suspension) 8064 supported within an opening 8063 provided in the base plate 8061. In addition, a seal lip or seal flange 8069 is provided along the edge or periphery of the base plate 8061.

[0148] In one embodiment, the base plate 8061 and the flow tube array 8062 include a first part or base mold made of a relatively rigid material (e.g., polypropylene), and the blower suspension device 8064 and the seal lip 8069 include a second part or overmold made of a relatively flexible material (e.g., TPE or silicone) provided on the first part (e.g., by an overmolding).

[0149] As described above, the second plate assembly 8060 is supported between the intermediate cover 8040 and the lower housing portion 8014 (i.e., the base plate 8061 is supported within the internal slots 8042B and 8015B provided by the intermediate cover 8040 and the lower housing portion 8014). The base plate 8061 defines the walls of the first chamber 8001 and the second chamber 8002, and a seal lip 8069 along the periphery of the base plate 8061 provides a seal along the edges of the first chamber 8001 and the second chamber 8002.

[0150] The blower suspension device 8064 of the second plate assembly 8060 takes the form of an inlet end suspension device and supports the blower 8030 adjacent to the blower inlet 8032 of the blower 8030. The inlet end suspension device 8064 (made of an elastomer material such as TPE or silicone, for example) includes a radially outer portion 8064A provided to the opening 8063 of the base plate 8061 (for example by overmolding), a radially inner portion 8064B that engages with or is otherwise fixed to the blower inlet 8032 of the blower 8030, and an intermediate portion 8064C between the outer portion 8064A and the inner portion 8064B.

[0151] The radially inward portion 8064B can be fixed to the blower 8030 in any suitable manner (for example, wrapped around an inlet flange provided at the blower inlet 8032 as shown in Figure 4I). The blower suspension 8064 provides a seal along the blower inlet 8032, thereby sealing the blower inlet 8032 from the first chamber 8001 and providing an air path for air to enter the blower inlet 8032 from the second chamber 8002. In addition, in the illustrated embodiment, the middle portion 8064C of the blower suspension 8064 is axially offset from the outer portion 8064A and the inner portion 8064B, thereby providing flexibility and relative movement that enables vibration isolation and shock resistance of the blower 8030.

[0152] The flow tube array 8062 includes a plurality of flow tubes 8065 constructed and configured to extend from the base plate 8061 into the first chamber 8001 (for example, the flow tubes 8065 extend generally perpendicular to the base plate 8061). In the illustrated embodiment, each flow tube 8065 includes a first end 8065A provided on the base plate 8061 and a second end 8065B projecting from the base plate 8061 to extend into the first chamber 8001. Thus, the airflow path extends from the first chamber 8001 through the flow tube array 8062 into the second chamber 8002.

[0153] Similar to the inlet tube array 8052, the flow tube array 8062 is configured and positioned to reduce the noise output of the RPT device 8000 by increasing the acoustic impedance through the flow tube 8065 while maintaining high inertance.

[0154] In the illustrated embodiment, the flow tube array 8062 includes six spaced-apart flow tubes 8065. These flow tubes 8065 are generally arranged in three rows of two tubes each, and these rows are generally offset from one another. However, it should be understood that other suitable numbers of tubes 8065 (e.g., one or more flow tubes, e.g., 4 to 10 flow tubes) are possible, and these tubes 8065 can be arranged in other suitable manners (e.g., aligned in rows and / or columns, circular arrangement configuration, adjacent tubes engaging with each other).

[0155] In the illustrated embodiment, each of the flow tubes 8065 includes a circular cross-sectional shape, but it should be understood that each of the tubes 8065 may include other cross-sectional shapes (e.g., circular or non-circular shapes).

[0156] In one embodiment, each of the multiple flow tubes 8065 may have any suitable length, diameter, wall thickness, and cross-sectional area, for example, according to desired noise characteristics. In one embodiment, the length of the flow tube 8065 can be adjusted or selected to match the specific noise frequency characteristics of the RPT device 8000.

[0157] In one embodiment, each of the multiple flow tubes 8065 may include a draft angle that allows the mold to be removed from the tube during the molding process. Such a draft angle can be in either direction (i.e., converging away from the base plate 8061 or converging towards the base plate 8061).

[0158] The multiple flow tubes 8065 may include flow tubes of equal and / or unequal lengths. The multiple flow tubes 8065 may include inclined shapes at one or more ends.

[0159] 5.4.1.6 Arrangement of Inlet Tube Array and Flow Tube Array In the illustrated embodiment, the inlet tube array 8052 and the flow tube array 8062 are constructed and arranged relative to each other within the first chamber 8001 to reduce the noise output of the RPT device 8000.

[0160] As best shown in Figures 4Q and 4R, the inlet tube array 8052 is positioned axially spaced from the flow tube array 8062, and the tube 8055 of the inlet tube array 8052 includes an axis substantially parallel to the axis of the tube 8065 of the flow tube array 8062, but the tube 8055 of the inlet tube array 8052 is not positioned coaxially with the tube 8065 of the flow tube array 8062. This arrangement reduces the amount of noise that is radiated from the flow tube array 8062 and then directly radiated to the inlet tube array 8052.

[0161] An axially offset configuration can be obtained by offsetting the central axis of the inlet tube array 8052 (i.e., the central axis defined by the combination of all inlet tubes 8055) from the central axis of the flow tube array 8062 (i.e., the central axis defined by the combination of all flow tubes 8065), and / or by arranging the inlet tube array 8052 and the flow tube array 8062 such that one or more of the individual tubes 8055 and 8065 are not coaxially aligned with each other or axially aligned (i.e., axially offset). For example, in the configuration shown in Figure 4R, each tube 8055 of the inlet tube array 8052 includes an axis offset from the axis of each tube 8065 of the flow tube array 8062.

[0162] In the series configuration shown in the figure, the tube 8055 of the inlet tube array 8052 may be spaced axially apart from the tube 8065 of the flow tube array 8062 (for example, the spacing d between the inlet tube array 8052 and the flow tube array 8062 (see Figure 4Q) may be at least 5 mm (e.g., about 10-15 mm)).

[0163] Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, tube 8055 of the inlet tube array 8052 and tube 8065 of the flow tube array 8062 each include an axis aligned substantially parallel to the axis of the blower 8030.

[0164] 5.4.1.7 Printed Circuit Board Assembly As described above, PCBA8070 includes a main PCB8072 and a second PCB8074, the main PCB8072 being supported within an internal chamber section 8007 (defined, for example, by the upper housing section 8012 and the intermediate cover 8040), and the second PCB8074 being supported within an internal chamber section 8006 (defined, for example, by the second end section 8022, the intermediate cover 8040, and the lower housing section 8014). This arrangement places the main PCB8072 and the second PCB8074 outside the airflow path.

[0165] PCBA8070 is electrically connected to the blower 8030 by one or more electrical connectors (for example, the electrical connectors 8090 shown in Figures 4H and 4L). In the embodiment shown in Figure 4G, the blower 8030 includes an electrical connector portion 8038 extending outside the blower housing 8031, and the electrical connector 8090 is structured and positioned to electrically connect the electrical connector portion 8038 of the blower 8030 to the PCBA8070.

[0166] In one embodiment, the electrical connector 8090 may be a flexible wiring board (FCB), a flexible printed circuit (FPC), and / or a flexible flat cable (FFC) for electrically connecting the blower 8030 to the PCBA 8070.

[0167] In one embodiment, the electrical connector 8090 may be positioned to pass through the internal air chamber of the RPT device 8000 (for example, through the first chamber 8001) without being directly positioned in the airflow path (for example, without being positioned between the inlet tube array 8052 and the flow tube array 8062). For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the electrical connector 8090 may be positioned to pass around the periphery of the inlet tube array 8052.

[0168] The electrical connector 8090 may be pre-formed into a specific shape to reduce the possibility of interference with one or more components of the RPT device 8000. Furthermore, the electrical connector 8090 may be long enough to remain loose when connected (for example, to isolate vibrations transmitted from the blower 8030 through the electrical connector 8090).

[0169] In one embodiment, the electrical connector 8090 may be constructed and configured to help achieve a reliable seal due to its small low-profile form factor. In one embodiment, tape and / or adhesive may be provided to further seal any gaps present where the electrical connector 8090 exits the housing portion and / or intermediate cover.

[0170] 5.4.1.8 Air filter (single or multiple) An RPT device in one form of this technology may include an air filter or multiple air filters.

[0171] In one embodiment, the inlet air filter is located where the pneumatic path upstream of the blower begins (for example, housed in cover plate 8021).

[0172] In one embodiment, an outlet air filter (e.g., an antimicrobial factor) is positioned between the outlet of the pneumatic block and the patient interface 3000.

[0173] 5.4.1.9 Converters (singular or plural) The converter may be located inside the RPT device or outside the RPT device. The external converter may be located on an air circuit, for example, or form part of an air circuit (e.g., a patient interface). The external converter may take the form of a non-contact sensor (e.g., a Doppler radar motion sensor that transmits or moves the data RPT device).

[0174] In one embodiment of this technology, one or more transducers may be positioned upstream and / or downstream of a blower. One or more transducers may be constructed and positioned to measure characteristics (e.g., flow rate, pressure, or temperature at that point in the pneumatic path).

[0175] In one embodiment of this technology, one or more transducers may be located near the patient interface 3000.

[0176] In one configuration, the signal from the converter may be filtered (for example, by low-pass, high-pass, or band-pass filtering).

[0177] 5.4.1.9.1 Flow Sensor The flow sensor using this technology can be obtained based on a differential pressure transducer (for example, the SDP600 series differential pressure transducer from SENSIRION).

[0178] In one configuration, a signal representing the flow rate (e.g., the total flow rate Qt from a flow sensor) may be received by a central controller.

[0179] 5.4.1.9.2 Pressure Sensor Pressure sensors using this technology can be arranged in pneumatic and fluid communication pathways. One example of a suitable pressure transducer is a sensor from the HONEYWELL ASDX series. Another suitable pressure transducer is a sensor from the GENERAL ELECTRIC NPA series.

[0180] In one configuration, the signal from the pressure sensor can be received by a central controller.

[0181] 5.4.1.9.3 Motor Speed ​​Converter In one embodiment of this technology, a motor speed transducer may be used to determine the rotational speed of a motor and / or blower. The motor speed signal from the motor speed transducer may be provided to a treatment device controller. The motor speed transducer may be, for example, a speed sensor (e.g., a Hall effect sensor).

[0182] 5.4.1.10 Anti-spillback valve In one embodiment of this technology, an anti-spillback valve may be positioned between the humidifier 5000 and the pneumatic block. The anti-spillback valve is constructed and positioned to reduce the risk of water flowing upstream from the humidifier 5000 (for example, to the blower motor).

[0183] 5.4.1.11 Air Circuit An air circuit 4170 according to one aspect of this technology is a conduit or tube that is constructed and arranged so that airflow moves between two components (e.g., a pneumatic block and a patient interface 3000) during use.

[0184] In detail, the air circuit 4170 may be fluidly connected to the outlet and patient interface of the pneumatic block. The air circuit may be called an air delivery tube. In some cases, there may be separate limbs of the circuit for inhalation and exhalation. In other cases, a single limb is used.

[0185] In some embodiments, the air circuit 4170 may include one or more heating elements configured to heat the air in the air circuit (for example, to maintain or raise the air temperature). The heating elements may take the form of a heating wire circuit and may include one or more transducers (e.g., temperature sensors). In one embodiment, the heating wire circuit may be helically wound around the axis of the air circuit 4170. The heating elements may communicate with a controller (e.g., a central controller). One embodiment of the air circuit 4170 including a heating wire circuit is described in U.S. Patent Application No. US / 2011 / 0023874, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0186] 5.4.1.12 Oxygen delivery In one embodiment of this technology, supplemental oxygen can be delivered to one or more points in the pneumatic pathway (e.g., upstream of the pneumatic block), the air circuit 4170, and / or the patient interface 3000.

[0187] 5.4.2 RPT Device Electrical Components 5.4.2.1 Power supply The power supply may be located inside or outside the external housing of the RPT device 8000.

[0188] In one embodiment of this technology, power is supplied from the power source only to the power RPT device 8000. In another embodiment of this technology, power is supplied from the power source to both the RPT device 8000 and the humidifier 5000.

[0189] 5.4.2.2 Input Devices In one embodiment of this technology, the RPT device 8000 includes one or more input devices (e.g., buttons 8003, 8004) in the form of buttons, switches, or dials for enabling human-device interaction. The buttons, switches, or dials may be physical or software devices accessible via a touchscreen. In one embodiment, the buttons, switches, or dials may be physically connected to an external housing, or in another embodiment, they may be wirelessly connected to a receiver electrically connected to a central controller.

[0190] In one form, the input device may be constructed and configured to allow a human to select a value and / or a menu option.

[0191] 5.4.2.3 Central Controller In one embodiment of this technology, the central controller is one or more processors suitable for controlling the RPT device 8000 (e.g., PCBA8070 including the main PCB8072 and the second PCB8074).

[0192] Suitable processors may include x86 Intel processors, which are based on the ARM® Cortex®-M processor from ARM Holdings (e.g., the S®32 series microcontrollers from ST Microelectronics). In certain other forms of this technology, a 32-bit RISC CPU (e.g., the STR9 series macrocontrollers from ST Microelectronics) or a 16-bit RISC CPU (e.g., processors from the MSP430 family of macrocontrollers manufactured by Texas Instruments) may also be suitable.

[0193] In one form of this technology, the central controller is a dedicated electronic circuit.

[0194] In one embodiment, the central controller is an application-specific integrated circuit. In another embodiment, the central controller comprises discrete electronic components.

[0195] The central controller may be configured to receive input signals (one or more) from one or more transducers, one or more input devices, and humidifiers 5000.

[0196] The central controller may be configured to provide output signals (one or more) to one or more of the following: output devices, treatment device controllers, data communication interfaces, and humidifiers 5000.

[0197] In some forms of this technology, the central controller is configured to perform one or more methods described herein (e.g., one or more algorithms expressed as computer programs recorded in a non-temporary computer-readable recording medium (e.g., memory)). In some forms of this technology, the central controller may be integrated with the RPT device. However, in some forms of this technology, some methods may be performed by a remotely located device. For example, the remotely located device may determine the control settings of the ventilation holes or detect respiratory-related events by analyzing recorded data (e.g., from any of the sensors described herein).

[0198] 5.4.2.4 Clocks The RPT device may include a clock connected to a central controller.

[0199] 5.4.2.5 Treatment device controller In one form of this technology, the blower may be under the control of a treatment device controller. The treatment device controller may be a treatment control module that forms part of an algorithm executed by a central controller.

[0200] In one embodiment of this technology, the treatment device controller is a dedicated motor control integrated circuit. For example, in one embodiment, an MC33035 brushless DC motor controller manufactured by ONSEMI is used.

[0201] 5.4.2.6 Protection circuit One or more protection circuits provided by this technology may include electrical protection circuits, temperature and / or pressure safety circuits.

[0202] 5.4.2.7 Memory In one embodiment of this technology, the RPT device includes memory (e.g., non-volatile memory). In some embodiments, the memory may include battery-powered static RAM. In some embodiments, the memory may include volatile RAM.

[0203] Memory can be located on the PCBA. Memory can take the form of EEPROM or NAND flash.

[0204] Additionally or alternatively, the RPT device may include removable memory (e.g., a memory card manufactured in accordance with the Secure Digital (SD) standard).

[0205] In one embodiment of this technology, the memory functions as a recording medium readable by a non-temporary computer. Computer program instructions (e.g., one or more algorithms) representing one or more of the methods described herein are recorded on this recording medium.

[0206] 5.4.2.8 Data Communication System In one form of this technology, a data communication interface is provided and connected to a central controller. The data communication interface may be connectable to a remote external communication network and / or a local external communication network. The remote external communication network may be connectable to a remote external device. The local external communication network may be connectable to a local external device.

[0207] In one embodiment, the data communication interface is part of the central controller. In another embodiment, the data communication interface is separate from the central controller and may include an integrated circuit or processor.

[0208] In one form, the remote external communication network is the Internet. The data communication interface may use wired communication (e.g., via Ethernet® or optical fiber) or wireless protocols (e.g., CDMA, GSM®, LTE) to connect to the Internet.

[0209] In one configuration, the local external communication network uses one or more communication standards (e.g., Bluetooth® or Consumer Infrared Protocol).

[0210] In one form, the remote external device is one or more computers (e.g., a cluster of networked computers). In another form, the remote external device may be a virtual computer rather than a physical computer. In either case, such a remote external device may be accessible by a properly authorized person (e.g., a clinician).

[0211] A local external device can be a personal computer, mobile phone, tablet, or remote control.

[0212] 5.4.2.9 Optional output devices including displays and alarms The output device using this technology may take the form of one or more of visual, auditory, and haptic units. The visual display may be a liquid crystal display (LCD) or a light-emitting diode (LED) display.

[0213] 5.4.2.9.1 Display Driver The display driver receives characters, symbols, or images to be displayed on the display as input and converts them into commands to display these characters, symbols, or images on the display.

[0214] 5.4.2.9.2 Display A display is configured to visually display characters, symbols, or images in response to commands received from a display driver. For example, the display may be an 8-segment display, in which case the display driver translates each character or symbol (e.g., the number "0") into eight logical signals indicating whether each of the eight segments should be activated to display a particular character or symbol.

[0215] 5.4.3 RPT Device Accessories 5.4.3.1 External Battery Several forms of the external battery 9000 of this technology are shown in Figures 4W1 and 4W2.

[0216] The external battery 9000 may be engageable with the RPT device 8000, for example, as shown in Figures 4X1 to 4Y2. The external battery 9000 may include guide members to facilitate alignment and connection with (and disconnection from) the RPT device 8000. In one embodiment, the external battery 9000 may include one or more guide slots 9050, each of which is configured to receive each guide rail 8019 of the RPT device 8000. The guide slots 9050 may further include latches 9060 that can be released by latch buttons 9065. The latches 9060 may be configured to engage with recessed slots 8110 along the guide rails 8019 of the RPT device 8000 to hold the RPT device 8000 relative to the external battery 9000.

[0217] In some configurations, the external battery 9000 may include a fascia 9100 as shown in Figure 4W1. The fascia is engageable with the end of the RPT device 8000 as shown in Figure 4Y1.

[0218] The fascia 9100 may include at least one of an air inlet 9018 and an air outlet 9020 for extending the air path of the RPT device 8000. The air inlet 9018 and / or air outlet 9020 may be configured to be substantially identical to the housing inlet 8018 and housing outlet 8020, respectively. Thus, the user may use the same air conduit 4170 whether the air conduit is connected to the RPT device 8000 or to an external battery 9000.

[0219] In some cases, the battery 9000 may include a muffler to reduce the noise output of the RPT device 8000. For example, the muffler may reduce the noise output from the housing outlet 8020 so that it is reduced at the air outlet 9020. Additionally or alternatively, the muffler may reduce the noise output from the housing inlet 8018 so that the noise from the air inlet 9018 (e.g., noise measured at the air inlet 9018) is less than the noise from the housing inlet 8018 (e.g., noise measured at the housing inlet 8018).

[0220] In some embodiments, the battery fascia 9100 may include a muffling chamber positioned between the housing outlet 8020 and the air outlet 9020. In other embodiments, the battery fascia 9100 may include a muffling chamber positioned between the housing inlet 8018 and the air inlet 9018. For this purpose, the air outlet 9020 may be displaced from the housing outlet 8020 (for example, by only about 30 mm). However, it should be understood that other noise reduction means may be possible between the housing outlet 8020 and the air outlet 9020, and between the housing inlet 8018 and the air inlet 9018.

[0221] The external battery may include one or more battery cells (e.g., lithium-ion batteries or nickel-metal hydride batteries) configured to store electrical energy, and a printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) connected to these battery cells.

[0222] The PCBA may include components and / or circuits that control one or more operations of the battery (e.g., power management, communication with the RPT device 8000 and / or voltage conversion).

[0223] External batteries can generate heat (e.g., heat from the PCBA and / or battery cells). Therefore, it may be preferable to manage the heat output from the external battery so that the PCBA and battery cells operate within their preferred environmental conditions.

[0224] In one embodiment of this technology, the external battery 9000 may be configured to be a thermally coupled RPT device 8000. The RPT device 8000 includes an internal air passage through which ambient air is drawn in (e.g., housing inlet 8018) and delivered (e.g., housing outlet 8020).

[0225] Therefore, the airflow of the RPT device 8000 can be used to cool one or more components of the external battery 9000. That is, heat conducted from the external battery 9000 to the RPT device 8000 can be removed from the RPT device 8000 by convection.

[0226] The external battery 9000 may be configured such that the heat generated by the external battery 9000 is more efficiently delivered to the RPT device 8000 for convective cooling. For example, the hotter heat-generating components of the external battery 9000 can be placed near the RPT device 8000 during assembly. In another embodiment, the external battery 9000 may include a heat conduction element configured to deliver heat to the RPT device 8000 when assembled.

[0227] For example, in one embodiment as shown in Figure 4Y1, the external battery 9000 is configured to be coupled to the underside of the RPT device, and the hotter heat-generating components of the external battery 9000 may be positioned towards the top of the external battery to improve heat transfer. In another embodiment, the external battery 9000 may include heat pipes to improve heat conduction from the hotter heat-generating components to the outside of the external battery 9000, thereby improving heat transfer RPT device 8000 when they are interconnected.

[0228] Furthermore, the external battery 9000 may be configured to improve thermal conductivity between the external battery 9000 and the RPT device 8000. For example, the external battery 9000 may include one or more conductive parts (e.g., surfaces) configured to thermally connect with the RPT device 8000 for heat transfer when they are engaged.

[0229] 5.4.4 RPT Device Algorithm 5.4.4.1 Preprocessing Module As shown in Figure 4V, in one embodiment of this technology, the pre-processing module 4310 receives a signal from a transducer (e.g., a flow sensor or pressure sensor) as input and performs one or more process steps to calculate one or more output values. These output values ​​are used as input to another module (e.g., the treatment engine module 4320).

[0230] In one embodiment of this technology, the output values ​​include interface or mask pressure Pm, breathing flow rate Qr, and leakage flow rate Ql.

[0231] In various forms of this technology, the pre-processing module 4310 includes one or more of the following algorithms: pressure compensation 4312, airflow estimation 4314, leakage flow estimation 4316, and breathing flow estimation 4318.

[0232] 5.4.4.2 Treatment control module According to one aspect of this technology, the treatment control module 4330 receives treatment parameters from the treatment parameter determination algorithm of the treatment engine module 4320 as input, and controls the pressure generator to deliver airflow from the pressure generator according to these treatment parameters.

[0233] In one embodiment of this technology, the treatment parameter is the treatment pressure Pt, and the treatment control module 4330 controls the pressure generator so that the mask pressure Pm at the patient interface 3000 is delivered from the pressure generator to an airflow equal to the treatment pressure Pt.

[0234] 5.5 Humidifier 5.5.1 Overview of Humidifiers In one embodiment of this technology, a humidifier 5000 is provided for changing the absolute humidity of air or gas to be delivered to a patient relative to the ambient air (for example, as shown in Figure 5A). Typically, the humidifier 5000 is used to increase the absolute humidity (relative to the ambient air) and temperature of the airflow before it is delivered to the patient's airway.

[0235] The humidifier 5000 may include a humidifier reservoir 5110, a humidifier inlet 5002 for receiving airflow, and a humidifier outlet 5004 for delivering humidified airflow. In some embodiments, such as those shown in Figures 5A and 5B, the inlet and outlet of the humidifier reservoir 5110 may be the humidifier inlet 5002 and the humidifier outlet 5004, respectively. The humidifier 5000 may further include a humidifier base 5006. The humidifier base 5006 may be adapted to receive the humidifier reservoir 5110 and may include a heating element 5240.

[0236] 5.5.2 Humidifier Mechanical Components 5.5.2.1 Water Reservoir According to one arrangement configuration, the humidifier 5000 may include a water reservoir 5110 configured to contain or hold a fixed amount of liquid (e.g., water) to be evaporated for humidifying an air flow. The water reservoir 5110 may be configured to contain a predetermined maximum amount of water to provide appropriate humidification over at least a respiratory therapy session (e.g., an overnight sleep). Typically, the reservoir 5110 is configured to contain several hundred milliliters of water (e.g., 300 milliliters (ml), 325 ml, 350 ml or 400 ml). In other forms, the humidifier 5000 may be configured to receive a water supply from an external water source (e.g., a building's water supply system).

[0237] According to one aspect, the water reservoir 5110 is configured to humidify the air flow from the RPT device 4000 as the air flow passes through the RPT device 4000. In one form, the water reservoir 5110 may be configured to facilitate the movement of the air flow along a serpentine path in the reservoir 5110 while the air flow contacts a fixed amount of water in the reservoir 5110.

[0238] According to one form, the reservoir 5110 may be removably detached from the humidifier 5000 horizontally, as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B for example.

[0239] The reservoir 5110 may also be configured to suppress liquid discharge from the reservoir 5110 when the reservoir 5110 is displaced and / or rotated from its normal operating direction (e.g., through any aperture and / or between its sub-components). Since the air flow to be humidified by the humidifier 5000 is often pressurized, the reservoir 5110 may also be configured to avoid air pressure loss through leakage and / or flow impedance.

[0240] 5.5.2.2 Conductive parts According to one arrangement configuration, the reservoir 5110 includes a conductive site 5120 configured to enable efficient heat transfer from the heating element 5240 to a certain amount of liquid in the reservoir 5110. In one form, the conductive site 5120 can be arranged as a plate, although other shapes can also be appropriate. The whole or part of the conductive site 5120 can be composed of a heat-conductive material such as aluminum (for example, with a thickness of approximately 2 mm (for example, 1 mm, 1.5 mm, 2.5 mm or 3 mm)), another heat-conductive metal or some plastic. In some cases, appropriate heat conductivity can be achieved by a lower-conductivity material with an appropriate geometry.

[0241] 5.5.2.3 Humidifier Reservoir Dock In one form, the humidifier 5000 can include a humidifier reservoir dock 5130 configured to receive the humidifier reservoir 5110 (as shown in Figure 5B). In some arrangement configurations, the humidifier reservoir dock 5130 can include a locking function (for example, a locking lever 5135 configured to hold the reservoir 5110 within the humidifier reservoir dock 5130)

[0242] 5.5.2.4 Water Level Indicator The humidifier reservoir 5110 can include a water level indicator 5150 as shown in Figures 5A - 5B. In some forms, the water level indicator 5150 can provide one or more indications to a user such as the patient 1000 or caregiver regarding the amount of water in the humidifier reservoir 5110. These one or more indications provided by the water level indicator 5150 can include notification of the maximum predetermined amount of water, any part thereof (for example, 25%, 50% or 75% or an amount (for example, 200 ml, 300 ml or 400 ml)).

[0243] 5.5.3 Humidifier Electrical & Heat Components The humidifier 5000 can include a plurality of electrical and / or heat components such as those listed below, for example.

[0244] 5.5.3.1 Humidifier Converter(s) The humidifier 5000 may include one or more humidifier transducers (sensors) 5210 in place of or in addition to the transducers described above. The humidifier transducer 5210 may include one or more of the following: an air pressure sensor 5212, an air flow transducer 5214, a temperature sensor 5216, or a humidity sensor 5218, as shown in Figure 5C. The humidifier transducer 5210 may generate one or more output signals. These output signals may be communicated to a controller (e.g., a central controller and / or a humidifier controller 5250). In some forms, the humidifier transducer may be located outside the humidifier 5000 (e.g., within the air circuit 4170) while communicating the output signals to the controller.

[0245] 5.5.3.1.1 Pressure Converter One or more pressure transducers 5212 may be provided in the humidifier 5000 in addition to or instead of the pressure sensors provided in the RPT device.

[0246] 5.5.3.1.2 Flow Converters In addition to or instead of the flow sensor provided in the RPT device, one or more flow converters 5214 may be provided in the humidifier 5000.

[0247] 5.5.3.1.3 Temperature Converter The humidifier 5000 may include one or more temperature transducers 5216. The one or more temperature transducers 5216 may be configured to measure one or more temperatures (for example, the temperature of the heating element 5240 and / or the temperature downstream of the airflow at the humidifier outlet 5004). In some embodiments, the humidifier 5000 may further include a temperature sensor 5216 for detecting the temperature of the ambient air.

[0248] 5.5.3.1.4 Humidity Converter In one embodiment, the humidifier 5000 may include one or more humidity sensors 5218 that detect the humidity of a gas, such as ambient air. In some embodiments, the humidity sensors 5218 may be positioned toward the humidifier outlet 5004 to measure the humidity of the gas delivered from the humidifier 5000. The humidity sensors may be absolute humidity sensors or relative humidity sensors.

[0249] 5.5.3.2 Heating elements In some cases, the heating element 5240 may be provided in a humidifier 5000 that provides a heat input to one or more of the water volume in the humidifier reservoir 5110 and / or the water volume to the airflow. The heating element 5240 may include a heat-generating component such as an electrical resistance heating track. One suitable embodiment of the heating element 5240 is the layered heating element described, for example, in PCT Patent Application Publication WO2012 / 171072, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0250] In some configurations, the heating element 5240 may be located within the humidifier base 5006. Within the humidifier base 5006, heat can be transferred to the humidifier reservoir 5110 primarily by conduction, as shown in Figure 5B.

[0251] 5.5.3.3 Humidifier Controller In one configuration of this technology, the humidifier 5000 may include a humidifier controller 5250 as shown in Figure 5C. In one embodiment, the humidifier controller 5250 may be part of the central controller 4230. In another embodiment, the humidifier controller 5250 may be a separate controller capable of communicating with the central controller.

[0252] In one embodiment, the humidifier controller 5250 may receive measurements of characteristics (e.g., temperature, humidity, pressure, and / or flow rate) as input (e.g., measurements of airflow and water in the reservoir 5110 and / or humidifier 5000). The humidifier controller 5250 may also be configured to execute or perform humidifier algorithms and / or deliver one or more output signals.

[0253] As shown in Figure 5C, the humidifier controller 5250 may include one or more controllers (for example, a central humidifier controller 5251, a heated air circuit controller 5254 configured to control the temperature of the heated air circuit 4170, and / or a heated element controller 5252 configured to control the temperature of the heated element 5240).

[0254] 5.6 Respiratory waveform Figure 6 shows a typical respiratory waveform of a human sleep model. The horizontal axis represents time, and the vertical axis represents respiratory flow rate. Since parameter values ​​can vary, typical respiration can have the following approximate values: tidal volume, Vt, 0.5 L; inspiratory time, Ti, 1.6 s; peak inspiratory flow rate, Q peak, 0.4 L / s; expiratory time, Te, 2.4 s; peak expiratory flow rate, Q peak, -0.5 L / s. The total respiratory duration, Ttot, is approximately 4 s. Humans typically breathe about 15 times per minute (BPM), and the ventilation Vent is approximately 7.5 L / min. The ratio of Ti, a typical duty cycle, to Ttot is approximately 40%.

[0255] 5.7 Glossary For the purposes of disclosing this technology, one or more of the following definitions may apply in certain forms of this technology. Other definitions may also apply in other forms of this technology.

[0256] 5.7.1 General Air: In certain forms of this technology, air may mean the atmosphere, and in other forms of this technology, air may mean a combination of other breathable gases (e.g., an oxygen-rich atmosphere).

[0257] Ambient: In certain forms of the present technology, the term "ambient" should be taken to mean (i) outside the treatment system or the patient, and (ii) that which directly surrounds the treatment system or the patient.

[0258] For example, the ambient for a humidifier humidity can be the humidity of the air that directly surrounds the humidifier (e.g., the humidity inside the room where the patient is sleeping). Such ambient humidity may be different from the humidity outside the room where the patient is sleeping.

[0259] In another example, the ambient pressure can be the pressure directly around or outside the body.

[0260] In certain forms, the ambient (e.g., acoustic) noise can be considered the background noise level in the room where the patient is located, other than the noise generated from, for example, an RPT device or the noise generated from a mask or patient interface. Ambient noise can be generated from sources outside the room.

[0261] Automatic Positive Airway Pressure (APAP) Therapy: A CPAP therapy that can automatically adjust the treatment pressure between a minimum and a maximum limit, for example, during the breathing cycle, depending on the presence or absence of signs of SDB onset.

[0262] Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) Therapy: A respiratory pressure therapy in which the treatment pressure is substantially constant throughout the patient's breathing cycle. In some forms, the pressure at the airway inlet rises slightly during exhalation and drops slightly during inhalation. In some forms, the pressure varies between different breathing cycles of the patient (e.g., increased in response to detection of signs of partial upper airway obstruction and reduced when signs of partial upper airway obstruction are absent).

[0263] Flow rate: The amount (or mass) of air delivered per unit time. Flow rate typically refers to an instantaneous quantity unless otherwise specified. In some cases, when flow rate is mentioned, it refers to a scalar quantity (i.e., a quantity that has only magnitude). In other cases, when flow rate is mentioned, it refers to a vector quantity (i.e., a quantity that has both magnitude and direction). Flow rate may be denoted by the symbol Q. "Flow rate" is sometimes abbreviated as "flow".

[0264] Patient: A person who has or does not have a respiratory illness.

[0265] Pressure: Force per unit area. Pressure can be measured in various units (e.g., cmH2O, gf / cm²). 2 (hectopascals). 1 cmH2O is equal to 1 g-f / cm³. 2 This is equal to approximately 0.98 hectopascals. In this specification, unless otherwise specified, pressure is given in units of cmH2O.

[0266] Respiratory pressure therapy (RPT): Addition of air supply to the airway inlet at therapeutic pressure, which is typically positive relative to the atmosphere.

[0267] Seal: When used as a noun ("seal"), it can refer to a structure; when used as a verb ("to seal"), it can refer to the effect of sealing. Two elements can be constructed and / or arranged to "seal" or achieve a "sealing" effect between them without requiring a separate "seal" element itself.

[0268] Acoustic power: The energy carried by sound waves per unit time. Acoustic power is proportional to the square of the value obtained by multiplying the sound pressure by the wavefront area. Acoustic power is usually expressed in decibels (SWL) (i.e., decibels relative to a reference power of 10-12 watts).

[0269] Sound pressure: The local deviation from ambient pressure at a given time that occurs as a result of sound waves passing through a medium. Sound pressure is usually measured in decibels (SPL), which is typically 20 × 10¹⁶, considered to be the threshold of human hearing. -6 It is expressed in decibels relative to a reference power taken as Pascals (Pa).

[0270] 5.7.2 Terminology related to RPT devices Leakage: The term "leakage" is taken to mean an unintended flow of air. In one embodiment, leakage may occur due to an incomplete seal between the mask and the patient's face. In another embodiment, leakage may occur at the circumferential elbow to the surroundings.

[0271] Conducted Noise (Acoustics): In this document, conducted noise refers to noise transmitted to a patient via pneumatic pathways (e.g., air circuits and patient interfaces and the air within them). In one form, conducted noise can be quantified by measuring the sound pressure level at the end of the air circuit.

[0272] Noise Radiation (Acoustic): In this document, radiated noise refers to noise transmitted to the patient by the surrounding air. In one form, radiated noise can be quantified by measuring the acoustic power / pressure level of the object in accordance with ISO 3744.

[0273] Noise from ventilation (acoustics): In this document, ventilation noise refers to noise generated by airflow through any ventilation (e.g., ventilation holes in a patient interface).

[0274] 5.7.3 Materials Silicone or silicone elastomer: synthetic rubber. In this specification, when silicone is referred to, it refers to liquid silicone rubber (LSR) or compression-molded silicone rubber (CMSR). One form of commercially available LSR is SILASTIC (included in the product line sold under this registered trademark), manufactured by Dow Corning. Another LSR manufacturer is Wacker. Unless otherwise specified, the Shore A (or Type A) indentation hardness of exemplary forms of LSR, as measured by ASTM D2240, is approximately 35 to approximately 45.

[0275] Polycarbonate: Typically, it is a transparent thermoplastic polymer of bisphenol A carbonate.

[0276] 5.8 Other Notes Some of the disclosures in this patent document include content that is protected by copyright. The copyright holder retains all copyrights to any other purpose, except that any reproduction of this patent document or this patent disclosure by fax by any person is permitted if it is included in the patent files or records of the Japan Patent Office.

[0277] Unless otherwise clearly indicated by the context or provided for a range of values, it is understood that 1 / 10 of the lower limit, the interval between the upper and lower limits of the range, and each intervention value for any other stated values ​​or intervention values ​​within the stated range are included in this technique. Even if the upper and lower limits of these intervention ranges, independently included within the intervention range, specifically exceed the limits within the stated range, they are also included in this technique. If the stated range includes one or both of these limits, the range exceeding either or both of these stated limits is also included in this technique.

[0278] Furthermore, where values ​​(one or more) are used in this specification as part of the Art, unless otherwise specified, it is understood that such values ​​may be approximated and used to any appropriate number of significant figures as permitted or required by the practical technical implementation.

[0279] Unless otherwise specified, all technical and scientific terms in this specification have the same meaning as those commonly understood by those skilled in the art. Any methods and materials similar to or equivalent to those described herein may be used in the practice or testing of this art, but only a limited number of exemplary methods and materials are described herein.

[0280] While certain materials are described as suitably used in constructing components, obvious alternative materials with similar properties may be used as substitutes. Furthermore, unless otherwise stated, any and all components described herein are understood to be manufacturable and therefore can be manufactured collectively or individually.

[0281] Note that, as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include their plural equivalents unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0282] All published documents cited herein are used for disclosure and description of methods and / or materials that are the subject of those documents, and are incorporated for reference only. The published documents cited herein are provided solely for the purposes of their disclosure prior to the filing date of this application. Nothing in this specification should be construed as acknowledging or acknowledging that the present technology is not prior to such published documents for the purpose of prior patents. Furthermore, the dates of the published documents cited herein may differ from the actual dates of the published documents and may require individual verification.

[0283] In detail, the terms “comprises” and “comprising” should be interpreted as referring to elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive sense, indicating that the elements, components, or steps described may exist, be used, or be combined with other elements, components, or steps not explicitly stated.

[0284] The headings used in the detailed descriptions are for the convenience of the reader and should not be used to limit the content found in this disclosure or the claims as a whole. These headings should not be used in the interpretation of the scope of the claims or the limitations of the claims.

[0285] While the techniques described herein have been described with reference to specific embodiments, it should be understood that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles and applications of the techniques. In some cases, terms and symbols may indicate specific details that are not necessary for carrying out the techniques. For example, terms such as “first” and “second” (etc.) are used, but unless otherwise specified, these terms are not intended to indicate any arbitrary order and are used to distinguish separate elements. Furthermore, while descriptions or examples of process steps in the methods may be given in order, such order is not required. Those skilled in the art will recognize that such order is changeable and / or that such actions can be performed simultaneously or even synchronously.

[0286] Therefore, it should be understood that numerous modifications are possible in the exemplary embodiments, and other configurations may be devised, without deviating from the intent and scope of this technology. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0287] 5.9 List of reference codes

[0288] [Table 4]

[0289] [Table 5]

[0290] [Table 6]

Claims

1. A device for generating an air supply at positive pressure for the improvement or treatment of respiratory diseases, The first chamber and The second chamber and At least one inlet tube constructed and configured to allow ambient air to enter the first chamber, At least one flow tube constructed and configured to allow air to pass from the first chamber to the second chamber, Includes a blower constructed and configured to generate airflow under positive pressure, The blower is placed in the first chamber and constructed and configured to receive air from the second chamber. The blower includes a housing, which is constructed and configured to airtightly separate the airflow from the first chamber through the interior of the housing. The apparatus wherein the at least one inlet tube is positioned axially apart from the at least one flow tube.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the housing includes a plurality of housing portions connected to each other to form a substantially sealed structure.

3. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 2, further comprising a flow sensor constructed and configured to determine an airflow rate by measuring a first pressure in the first chamber and a second pressure in the second chamber.

4. A device for generating an air supply at positive pressure for the improvement or treatment of respiratory diseases, At least one chamber, The system includes an inlet tube array comprising a plurality of inlet tubes constructed and configured to allow ambient air to enter at least one chamber, An apparatus in which at least one of the plurality of inlet tubes is located adjacent to another inlet tube, and the adjacent inlet tubes include at least one common side wall.

5. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein each of the inlet tubes includes a non-circular cross-sectional shape.

6. The apparatus according to claim 5, wherein each of the inlet tubes includes a hexagonal cross-sectional shape.

7. The apparatus according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the inlet tube array includes a non-circular outer circumference.

8. The apparatus according to any one of claims 4 to 7, wherein the inlet tube array includes 5 to 10 inlet tubes.

9. A device for generating an air supply at positive pressure for the improvement or treatment of respiratory diseases, At least one chamber, An inlet tube array including a plurality of inlet tubes constructed and configured to allow ambient air to enter at least one chamber, A flow tube array including a plurality of flow tubes constructed and configured to allow air to exit from at least one of the chambers, The inlet tube array is arranged at an axial distance from the flow tube array, The inlet tubes of the inlet tube array include axes that are substantially parallel to the axes of the flow tubes of the flow tube array, The apparatus wherein at least one of the inlet tubes includes an axis that is axially offset from the axis of at least one of the flow tubes.

10. The apparatus according to claim 9, further comprising a blower constructed and configured to generate an airflow at positive pressure, wherein the blower includes an axis substantially parallel to the axes of the inlet tube and the flow tube.

11. The apparatus according to any one of claims 9 to 10, wherein the inlet tube array is arranged at an axial distance of approximately 10 to 15 mm from the flow tube array.

12. A device for generating an air supply at positive pressure for the improvement or treatment of respiratory diseases, At least one chamber, A blower constructed and configured to generate an airflow under positive pressure, wherein the blower is located downstream of at least one chamber, Apparatus comprising: a plate assembly including a base plate defining the wall of the at least one chamber, the plate assembly including at least one tube constructed and configured to allow air to enter the at least one chamber, and a blower suspension device supporting the blower.

13. The apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the plate assembly is a first plate assembly, and the apparatus further comprises a second plate assembly, wherein at least one tube of the first plate assembly is an inlet tube that allows air to enter the at least one chamber, and the second plate assembly includes at least one flow tube that allows air to exit the at least one chamber.

14. The apparatus according to any one of claim 12 or 13, wherein the plate assembly is a first plate assembly, the apparatus further comprises a second plate assembly, the blower suspension device of the first plate assembly is an outlet end suspension device supporting the blower adjacent to the blower outlet of the blower, and the second plate assembly includes an inlet end suspension device supporting the blower adjacent to the blower inlet of the blower.

15. The apparatus according to any one of claims 13 or 14, wherein the second plate assembly includes a base plate defining the wall of at least one chamber.

16. The apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the at least one chamber comprises a first chamber and a second chamber, the base plate of the first plate assembly defines the wall of the first chamber, and the base plate of the second plate assembly defines the walls of the first chamber and the second chamber.

17. A device for generating an air supply at positive pressure for the improvement or treatment of respiratory diseases, A blower and A housing including an upper and lower part defining at least one chamber, A first plate assembly including a support for the blower and at least one tube constructed and configured to allow air to enter the at least one chamber, The system includes a second plate assembly including a support for the blower and at least one tube constructed and configured to allow air to exit from the at least one chamber, The upper and lower parts of the device are engageable or detachable in a generally normal direction with respect to the axis of at least one tube of the first plate assembly.

18. The apparatus according to claim 17, wherein the first plate assembly includes a base plate defining the wall of at least one chamber.

19. The apparatus according to claim 18, wherein the upper and lower parts are engageable with or detachable from the base plate in a generally coplanar direction.

20. A device for generating an air supply at positive pressure for the improvement or treatment of respiratory diseases, At least one chamber, A blower constructed and configured to generate airflow under positive pressure, A first plate assembly including a base plate defining the wall of at least one chamber and an outlet end suspension device supporting the blower adjacent to the blower outlet of the blower, Apparatus comprising: a base plate defining the wall of at least one chamber; and a second plate assembly including an inlet end suspension device supporting the blower adjacent to the blower inlet of the blower.

21. The apparatus according to claim 20, wherein the first plate assembly includes at least one inlet tube that allows air to enter the at least one chamber, and the second plate assembly includes at least one flow tube that allows air to exit the at least one chamber.

22. A device for generating an air supply at positive pressure for the improvement or treatment of respiratory diseases, A chamber including an airflow path, A blower placed inside the chamber, A printed circuit board located outside the chamber, Includes a connector constructed and configured to electrically connect the blower and the printed circuit board, The device is arranged such that the connector passes through the chamber without being directly positioned in the airflow path.

23. The apparatus according to claim 22, further comprising at least one inlet tube constructed and configured to allow ambient air to enter the chamber, wherein the connector is arranged to pass around the periphery of the at least one inlet tube.

24. The apparatus according to any one of claims 22 to 23, wherein the connector includes a flexible wiring board, a flexible printed circuit, or a flexible flat cable.

25. A device for generating an air supply at positive pressure for the improvement or treatment of respiratory diseases, A housing including an upper part, a lower part, and an intermediate part between the upper and lower parts, The lower and intermediate portions define a first chamber portion including an airflow path, and the upper and intermediate portions define a second chamber outside the airflow path, comprising a housing, A blower placed inside the first chamber, An apparatus including a printed circuit board disposed within the second chamber.

26. The apparatus according to claim 25, wherein the intermediate portion includes a first portion made of a relatively hard material and a second portion made of a relatively soft material provided to the first portion.

27. The apparatus according to claim 26, wherein the second part defines the first chamber.

28. The apparatus according to any one of claims 26 to 27, wherein the second part is made of an elastomer material overmolded onto the first part.

29. A system for the treatment of respiratory diseases, A patient interface constructed and configured to form a seal on the patient's face, The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 28, A system including an air circuit for connecting the patient interface and the device.

30. A plate assembly for a device that generates an air supply at positive pressure for the improvement or treatment of respiratory diseases, A base plate constructed and configured to define the walls of the chamber, A plurality of tubes provided in the chamber, constructed and configured to allow air to enter and exit the chamber, A plate assembly comprising a blower suspension device provided on the base plate, the blower suspension device being constructed and configured to support the end of a blower.

31. The plate assembly according to claim 30, wherein the base plate and the plurality of tubes include a first portion made of a relatively rigid material, and the blower suspension device includes a second portion made of a relatively soft material provided to the first portion.

32. The plate assembly according to claim 31, wherein the second portion is made of an elastomer material overmolded onto the first portion.

33. The plate assembly according to any one of claims 30 to 32, further comprising an outlet bellows provided on the base plate, wherein the outlet bellows are constructed and configured to form a seal with the end of an air circuit.

34. The plate assembly according to any one of claims 30 to 33, further comprising a pressure sensor constructed and configured to connect to a pressure sensor.

35. The plate assembly according to any one of claims 30 to 34, further comprising a seal lip along the periphery of the base plate, wherein the seal lip is constructed and configured to provide a seal along the chamber.

36. The plate assembly according to any one of claims 33 to 35, wherein the base plate and the plurality of tubes include a first portion made of a relatively rigid material, and the blower suspension, outlet bellows, pressure sensor and seal lip include a second portion made of a relatively soft material provided on the first portion.

37. The plate assembly according to claim 36, wherein the second portion is made of an elastomer material overmolded onto the first portion.

38. The plate assembly according to any one of claims 30 to 37, wherein the blower suspension device includes a gusset portion constructed and configured to provide flexibility and relative movement that enables isolation of vibrations and shock resistance of the blower.

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