CPAP Device

The modular CPAP device design addresses the bulkiness of humidified CPAP devices by providing a detachable humidifier unit, ensuring both humidified air delivery and portability through a detachable base unit configuration.

JP7616464B2Active Publication Date: 2025-01-17MURATA MFG CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
JP2024070515
Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Patents
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2019-04-26
Filing Date
2024-04-24
Publication Date
2025-01-17
Estimated Expiration
2040-03-26

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing CPAP devices with humidifying functions are bulky and hinder portability, making them inconvenient for daily use and travel.

Method used

A CPAP device design comprising a detachable main unit with a blower and a base unit with a humidifier, allowing for a portable configuration when the base unit is detached and a humidified air option when attached, utilizing a modular connection system for easy assembly and disassembly.

Benefits of technology

Enables a CPAP device with a humidifying function while maintaining high portability, facilitating both daily use and travel by allowing the device to be used with or without the base unit.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

To provide a CPAP device high in portability having a humidifying function.SOLUTION: A CPAP device includes a body unit 10 and a second unit 40 attached to and detached from the body unit 10. The body unit 10 includes a first housing 11 having a first introduction part, a first derivation part 14, and a first connection surface 113, and a blower for deriving air from the first derivation part 14. A second unit 40 includes a second housing having a second introduction part 44, a second derivation part 45, a second connection surface, a third introduction part 47, and a third derivation part 48, and a heating type humidifier for humidifying air introduced from the second introduction part 44. The first introduction part and the first derivation part 14 are positioned on the first connection surface 113, and the second introduction part 44 and the third derivation part 48 are positioned on the second connection surface.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2
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Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) device that delivers air inhaled into the device to the airways of a user. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices (hereinafter, CPAP devices) that supply fluid to a user have been used to treat sleep-related disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSA). A CPAP device has a blower with a built-in fan, and supplies fluid (e.g., air) at a pressure higher than atmospheric pressure from the blower to a mask worn over the user's mouth and nose, thereby opening the airway (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2016-34411 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] It is known that humidifying the air supplied to a user is beneficial for the user. For this reason, it is considered to provide a humidifying function. On the other hand, since a CPAP device is a device that is required to be used continuously every day, the user needs to carry the CPAP device when, for example, staying away from home. For this reason, the CPAP device is required to be small and lightweight. However, providing a humidifier may reduce the portability of the device.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a CPAP device that has a humidification function and is highly portable. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A CPAP device according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a CPAP device that sends air introduced into the device to the airway of a user, and includes a first unit and a second unit that is detachable from the first unit, the first unit including a first housing having a first inlet portion and a first outlet portion and a first connection surface connectable to the second unit, and a blower for discharging the air introduced from the first inlet portion through the first outlet portion, and the second unit includes: A device that is connectable to the first outlet portion and introduces air from the first outlet portion. The second introductory part and The air introduced from the second introduction section is discharged to the outside. a second housing having a second outlet portion and a second connection surface connectable to the first unit; and a humidifier that humidifies the air introduced from the second inlet portion, wherein the second housing is Bringing in air from outside A third introduction section and a first introduction section connectable thereto and the air introduced from the third introduction portion is discharged. the first inlet portion and the first outlet portion are located on the first connection surface, and the second inlet portion and the third outlet portion are located on the second connection surface.

[0007] With this configuration, a CPAP device having a humidifying function and high portability can be provided. Effect of the Invention

[0008] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a CPAP device having a humidification function and high portability can be provided. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a main unit and a base unit of the CPAP device in the first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the CPAP device in the first embodiment, viewed from another angle. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a state in which the base unit is attached to the main unit in the first embodiment. [Figure 4] 4A and 4B are partial cross-sectional views showing a connection portion between a main unit and a base unit in the first embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2A is a schematic diagram showing a first usage state of a CPAP device in each embodiment, and FIG. 2B is a schematic diagram showing a second usage state of the CPAP device. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing the functional block configuration of the CPAP device in a first usage state in each embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing the functional block configuration of the CPAP device in a second usage state in each embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing the functional blocks of the CPAP device in each embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an outline of a CPAP device according to a modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an outline of a CPAP device according to a modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an outline of a CPAP device according to a modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an outline of a CPAP device according to a modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an outline of a CPAP device according to a modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an outline of a CPAP device according to a modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 15] 6A and 6B are explanatory views showing a modified example of the base portion in the first embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an outline of a CPAP device according to a modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an outline of a CPAP device according to a modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a main unit and a base unit of a CPAP device according to a modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a main unit and a base unit of a CPAP device in a second embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the CPAP device according to the second embodiment, viewed from another angle. [Figure 21]13A to 13C are diagrams illustrating a movable second electrical connection portion in the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] The first embodiment will be described below. 1 to 8, the CPAP device 1 includes a main unit 10 as a first unit and a base unit 40 as a second unit. The main unit 10 includes a blower 22 as a main component. The base unit 40 includes a humidifier 51 as a main component.

[0011] The base unit 40 is detachable from the main unit 10 . In this embodiment, the CPAP device 1 is configured to be usable in a first and a second usage state. The first usage state is a state in which the base unit 40 is attached to the main unit 10, and the second usage state is a state in which the base unit 40 is not attached to the main unit 10.

[0012] In the first usage state, the main unit 10 and the base unit 40 are used. In the second usage state, only the main unit 10 is used, and the base unit 40 is not used. The CPAP device 1 of this embodiment is configured with a plurality of units, and these units are configured to be detachable from one another, thereby providing high convenience not only when the user is at home, but also when the user is away from home, etc. When the user is at home, the CPAP device 1 can be used in the above-mentioned first use state by attaching the base unit 40 to the main unit 10. In this first use state, by attaching the base unit 40 to the main unit 10, the CPAP device 1 can supply humidified air to the user as a CPAP device 1 equipped with a humidifier 51.

[0013] When staying away from home, the CPAP device 1 can be used in a second usage state in which the base unit 40 is not attached to the main unit 10. In this second usage state, the CPAP device 1 is only the main unit 10, so that only the main unit 10 needs to be carried, resulting in high portability. The CPAP device 1 can also be used in the second usage state when at home.

[0014] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the main unit 10 has a flattened, substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape, and the outer shell thereof is formed by a first housing 11. As shown in FIG. The first housing 11 has an upper surface 111 and a lower surface 112 facing in opposite directions in the thickness direction, and four side surfaces 113, 114, 115, and 116 connecting the upper surface 111 and the lower surface 112.

[0015] The upper surface 111 is an operation surface on which the operation unit 12 is provided. The operation unit 12 includes a ring-shaped member and a plurality of switches that are turned on and off by the member. By turning the switches on and off, it is possible to change the setting value, etc.

[0016] The lower surface 112 is a placement surface that is placed on the base unit 40 in the first use state, and is placed on a floor surface, a table, or the like in the second use state. The side surface 113 is a connection surface that is connected to the base unit 40 in the first use state, and will hereinafter be referred to as the first connection surface 113. The side surface 113 is perpendicular to the upper surface 111 and the lower surface 112.

[0017] The first connection surface 113 of the first housing 11 is provided with a first inlet 13 for introducing air from outside the first housing 11 into the first housing 11, and a first outlet 14 for guiding air from inside the first housing 11 to the outside. The first outlet 14 is an example of a first guide portion or a convex portion. The first inlet 13 has a plurality of through holes. The first housing 11 has a first inlet 131 due to the plurality of through holes. In addition, the first connection surface 113 of the first housing 11 is provided with a first electrical connection portion 15 for electrically connecting the main unit 10 and the base unit 40. In this embodiment, the first electrical connection portion 15 electrically connects the main unit 10 and the base unit 40. In this embodiment, the first electrical connection portion 15 is a connector having a terminal that is connected to and disconnected from the second electrical connection portion 46 of the base unit 40.

[0018] 1 to 3, the base unit 40 includes a second housing 41. The second housing 41 includes a humidifier section 42 in which a humidifier 51 shown in FIGS. 6 and 8 is provided, and a mounting section 43 on which the main unit 10 is mounted.

[0019] The humidifying section 42 is formed thicker than the mounting section 43. The lower surface 422 of the humidifying section 42 and the lower surface 432 of the mounting section 43 are flush and continuous. Therefore, the upper surface 421 of the humidifying section 42 is positioned higher than the upper surface 421 of the mounting section 43. The second housing 41 has an outer shape of a long and narrow rectangular parallelepiped with a cut-out portion 411 provided in part of its longitudinal direction by the humidifying section 42 and the mounting section 43. These lower surfaces 422, 432 are mounting surfaces that are placed on the floor, a table, or the like in the first usage state.

[0020] A second outlet section 45 is provided on an upper surface 421 of the humidifier 42. The second housing 41 has a second outlet port 451 that outlets air from within the second housing 41 via the second outlet section 45. In the first use state, the air tube 2 (see FIGS. 5(a) and 5(b)) is connected to this second outlet section 45 (second outlet port 451). An upper surface 431 of the mounting section 43 is a surface on which the main unit 10 is placed. The difference in height between the upper surface 421 of the humidifier 42 and the upper surface 431 of the mounting section 43 corresponds to the thickness of the first housing 11 of the main unit 10.

[0021] In the humidifier 42, the side surface facing the cutout portion 411 is a second connection surface 423 to which the main unit 10 is connected. The second connection surface 423 is provided with a second introduction section 44 for introducing air from the outside of the second housing 41. The second introduction section 44 has a through hole, and the second housing 41 has a second introduction port 441 by this through hole. The second connection surface 423 is provided with a second electrical connection section 46. The second electrical connection section 46 is electrically connected to the first electrical connection section 15 of the main unit 10 by attaching the base unit 40 to the main unit 10. In this embodiment, the second electrical connection section 46 is a connector having a terminal that is connected to and separated from the first electrical connection section 15.

[0022] The first electrical connection portion 15 and the second electrical connection portion 46 are provided for electrical connection and disconnection between the main unit 10 and the base unit 40. In this embodiment, the first electrical connection portion 15 and the second electrical connection portion 46 are used for supplying power to the base unit 40 and transmitting and receiving data by digital signals. Note that the power supply and the data transmission and reception can also be performed by separate connection portions. For example, contactless power supply, short-distance wireless communication, etc. can also be used in combination.

[0023] The upper surface 431 of the placement portion 43 of the second housing 41 described above is provided with a third inlet portion 47 that introduces air from the outside of the second housing 41. The third inlet portion 47 has a plurality of through holes penetrating the second housing 41, and the second housing 41 has a third inlet port 471 due to the plurality of through holes. The second connection surface 423 is provided with a third outlet portion 48 that introduces air from the second housing 41. The third outlet portion 48 has a through hole penetrating the second housing 41, and the second housing 41 has a third outlet port 481 due to the through hole.

[0024] By disposing the main unit 10 in the cutout portion 411 of the base unit 40, the lower surface 112 of the first housing 11 and the upper surface 431 of the placement portion 43 of the second housing 41 face each other, and the first connection surface 113 of the first housing 11 and the second connection surface 423 of the second housing 41 face each other. The first lead-out portion 14 provided on the first connection surface 113 of the first housing 11 and the second lead-in portion 44 provided on the second connection surface 423 of the second housing 41 are connected to each other. The first lead-in portion 13 provided on the first connection surface 113 of the first housing 11 and the third lead-out portion 48 provided on the second connection surface 423 of the second housing 41 are connected to each other.

[0025] As a result, the CPAP device 1 has a generally rectangular parallelepiped shape as a whole. Then, the air introduced into the second housing 41 by the third introduction part 47 of the second housing 41 is introduced into the first housing 11 through the third outlet part 48 of the second housing 41 and the first introduction part 13 of the first housing 11. Then, the air in the first housing 11 is introduced into the second housing 41 through the first outlet part 14 of the first housing 11 and the second introduction part 44 of the second housing 41. Then, the air is led out from the second outlet part 45 of the second housing 41 to the outside.

[0026] On the other hand, when the base unit 40 is not attached to the main unit 10, the first connection surface 113 of the first housing 11 is exposed to the outside. Therefore, the first introduction section 13 and the first outlet section 14 provided on the first connection surface 113 of the first housing 11 are in an open state to the outside. As a result, the main unit 10 introduces air from the outside of the first housing 11 into the first housing 11 through the first introduction section 13, and outlets the air in the first housing 11 to the outside through the first outlet section 14. In other words, the main unit 10 functions as a CPAP device by itself.

[0027] The connection between the first outlet portion 14 and the second inlet portion 44 will now be described in detail. As shown in FIG. 4(a) and FIG. 4(b), the first lead-out portion 14 protrudes from the first connection surface 113. The first lead-out portion 14 includes a base portion 142 and a connection tube portion 143. The base portion 142 is connected to the first connection surface 113. The connection tube portion 143 extends from the base portion 142 in the opposite direction to the first connection surface 113. The base portion 142 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The outer peripheral surface of the base portion 142 is a cylindrical surface, and the outside dimensions of the base portion 142 are the same in the direction protruding from the first connection surface 113 side. The connection tube portion 143 is formed in a tapered shape with the outside diameter dimension becoming smaller toward the tip. In other words, the first lead-out portion 14 has the base portion 142 having a cylindrical peripheral surface and the connection tube portion 143 having a tapered peripheral surface.

[0028] A connection recess 144 is formed in the connection tube portion 143 from its tip toward the base portion 142. A through hole penetrating the base portion 142, the connection tube portion 143, and the connection recess 144 communicates between the outside and the inside of the first housing 11. The first housing 11 has a first outlet 141 that outlets air to the outside of the first housing 11 by this first outlet portion 14.

[0029] The second introduction portion 44 has a storage portion 442 and a connection protrusion 444. The storage portion 442 is an example of a second guide portion or a recess. The storage portion 442 is recessed from the second connection surface 423 of the second housing 41 toward the inside of the second housing 41. As shown in FIG. 4(a), the storage portion 442 stores the first lead-out portion 14 of the first housing 11.

[0030] The storage section 442 has an inner wall 443a and a wall section 443b. The inner wall 443a is cylindrical, and the inner diameter dimension is set to be slightly larger than the outer dimension of the base 142 of the first lead-out section 14. In other words, the CPAP device 1 has a gap (clearance) GA between the inner wall 443a (inner surface) of the storage section 442 and the circumferential surface of the base 142 of the first lead-out section 14. The size of the gap GA is the distance between the base 142 of the first lead-out section 14 and the inner wall 443a of the storage section 442, and the distance is set according to the first electrical connection section 15 and the second electrical connection section 46.

[0031] A connection protrusion 444 is provided on the wall portion 443b of the storage portion 442. The connection protrusion 444 protrudes toward the open end of the storage portion 442. The connection protrusion 444 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The second housing 41 has a second inlet 441 that introduces air into the inside of the second housing 41 by the connection protrusion 444.

[0032] A sealing member 445 is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the connection protrusion 444. The sealing member 445 is housed in a groove provided along the outer circumferential surface of the connection protrusion 444. The sealing member 445 is in close contact with the inner circumferential surface of the connection recess 144 of the first lead-out portion 14 of the first housing 11. The sealing member 445 is, for example, an annular seal member. The sealing member 445 seals between the connection protrusion 444 and the connection recess 144. In other words, the sealing member 445 prevents air from leaking from between the first lead-out portion 14 and the second introduction portion 44.

[0033] The first housing 11 is provided with a first electrical connection portion 15. In this embodiment, the first electrical connection portion 15 is a female connector, and is provided inside the first housing 11 so as not to protrude from the first connection surface 113.

[0034] The second housing 41 is provided with a second electrical connection portion 46. A portion of the second electrical connection portion 46 protrudes from the second connection surface 423 of the second housing 41. In this embodiment, the second electrical connection portion 46 is a male connector. The second electrical connection portion 46 is inserted into the first electrical connection portion 15. The main unit 10 and the base unit 40 are electrically connected by the first electrical connection portion 15 and the second electrical connection portion 46.

[0035] 4(b), the length L14 of the first lead-out portion 14 is the length from the first connection surface 113 of the first housing 11 to the tip of the first lead-out portion 14. The length L46 of the second electrical connection portion 46 is the length from the second connection surface 423 of the second housing 41 to the tip of the second electrical connection portion 46. The length L14 of the first lead-out portion 14 is longer than the length L46 of the second electrical connection portion 46. Therefore, when attaching the base unit 40 to the main unit 10, first the tip of the first lead-out portion 14 is inserted into the second introduction portion 44, and then the second electrical connection portion 46 is inserted into the first electrical connection portion 15.

[0036] The first outlet portion 14 has a base portion 142 having a cylindrical circumferential surface, and a connecting tube portion 143 having a tapered circumferential surface. Therefore, when the first lead-out portion 14 is inserted into the second introduction portion 44, the first lead-out portion 14 is moved toward the center of the second introduction portion 44 by the connection tube portion 143 having a tapered peripheral surface. This movement of the first lead-out portion 14 relative to the second introduction portion 44 guides the first lead-out portion 14 to a position where the connection protrusion 444 of the second introduction portion 44 can be inserted into the connection recess 144 of the first lead-out portion 14. Similarly, the movement of the first lead-out portion 14 relative to the second introduction portion 44 guides the first lead-out portion 14 to a position where the first electrical connection portion 15 of the first housing 11 and the second electrical connection portion 46 of the second housing 41 can be electrically connected to each other.

[0037] In this embodiment, the outer diameter of the connection tube portion 143 on the side of the base portion 142 is equal to the outer diameter of the base portion 142. The outer diameter of the base portion 142 is smaller than the inner diameter of the accommodation portion 442 of the second housing 41. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 4(a), the base portion 142 is inserted into the accommodation portion 442. Then, a gap (clearance) GA is generated between the outer peripheral surface of the base portion 142 and the inner peripheral surface of the accommodation portion 442. By having this gap GA, the first housing 11 and the second housing 41 can be moved relatively along the first connection surface 113 and the second connection surface 423. This movement enables further alignment of the first electrical connection portion 15 and the second electrical connection portion 46.

[0038] Figures 5(a) and 5(b) are schematic diagrams showing the use state of the CPAP device 1 of this embodiment. Figure 5(a) shows a first use state, and Figure 5(b) shows a second use state. 5(a), in the first use state, the CPAP device 1 is used with the base unit 40 attached to the main unit 10. In this case, a first end of the air tube 2 is connected to a second outlet portion 45 provided on the base unit 40, and a second end of the air tube 2 is connected to a mask 3. The mask 3 is worn so as to cover, for example, the nose or mouth of a user 4.

[0039] In this first use state, the blower 22 provided in the main unit 10 is driven, so that air is drawn into the CPAP device 1 from the third inlet 47 provided in the base unit 40, and the air inside the CPAP device 1 is discharged to the outside from the second outlet 45 provided in the base unit 40. As a result, air is sent into the airway of the user 4 via the air tube 2 and the mask 3.

[0040] 5(b), in the second use state, the CPAP device 1 is used with only the main unit 10 to which the base unit 40 is not attached. In this case, a first end of the air tube 2 is connected to a first outlet portion 14 provided on the main unit 10, and a second end of the air tube 2 is connected to a mask 3. The mask 3 is worn so as to cover, for example, the nose or mouth of the user 4.

[0041] In this second use state, the blower 22 provided in the main unit 10 is driven, so that air is drawn into the inside of the CPAP device 1 from the first inlet 13 provided in the main unit 10, and the air inside the CPAP device 1 is discharged to the outside from the first outlet 14 provided in the main unit 10. As a result, air is sent into the airway of the user 4 via the air tube 2 and the mask 3.

[0042] Next, the configuration of functional blocks of the CPAP device 1 of this embodiment will be described. FIG. 6 shows the functional block configuration of the CPAP device 1 of this embodiment in a first usage state, and FIG. 7 shows the functional block configuration of the CPAP device 1 in a second usage state.

[0043] 6 and 7, the main unit 10 of the CPAP device 1 includes a first control unit 21, an operation unit 12, a blower 22, a silencer 23, a flow rate sensor 24, a pressure sensor 25, and a temperature sensor 26. The base unit 40 includes a humidifier 51, a silencer 52, and a second control unit 53.

[0044] The main unit 10 has a first flow path 16 between the first inlet portion 13 and the first outlet portion 14. A blower 22 is provided in the first flow path 16. The blower 22 is configured by, for example, a centrifugal fan. The blower 22 is installed in a blower chamber provided in the first housing 11. The blower chamber is a part of the first flow path 16, and the blower 22 is disposed on the first flow path 16 by this blower chamber.

[0045] A silencer 23 is provided in the first flow path 16 between the first introduction part 13 and the blower 22. The silencer 23 suppresses leakage of noise generated by the blower 22 (such as operating noise of a drive motor and wind noise) to the outside of the first housing 11.

[0046] The first flow path 16 is provided with a pressure sensor 25, a flow rate sensor 24, and a temperature sensor 26. The pressure sensor 25 is a sensor for detecting the pressure of the air sent out by the blower 22. The flow rate sensor 24 is a sensor for detecting the flow rate of air between the main unit 10 and the air tube 2. The temperature sensor 26 is a sensor for detecting the temperature of air introduced from outside the main unit 10.

[0047] First control unit 21 includes, as its main components, an arithmetic processing unit (CPU: Central Processing Unit) that executes a program, a memory unit (ROM: Read Only Memory / RAM: Random Access Memory), a communication unit, a drive unit that operates blower 22, and the like. The memory unit includes a ROM that stores data in a non-volatile manner, and a RAM that stores data in a volatile manner. Data stored in the memory unit includes data generated by execution of a program by the arithmetic processing unit, data input via operation unit 12, data measured by the various sensors described above, data transmitted to and received from the outside by the communication unit, and the like.

[0048] The processing in the arithmetic processing unit is realized by each piece of hardware and software executed by the arithmetic processing unit. Such software is stored in advance in the storage unit. Reception of operations of the operation unit 12, control of the drive motor that drives the blower 22, communication with the outside, etc. are also realized by the software.

[0049] In this embodiment, first control unit 21 controls the amount of air sent out by increasing or decreasing the rotation speed of blower 22 through control such as feedback control or feedforward control based on the flow rate and pressure values ​​detected by flow rate sensor 24 and pressure sensor 25. For example, first control unit 21 determines the user's exhalation state based on the measurements by flow rate sensor 24 and pressure sensor 25, and controls the pressure value of the air supplied to the user so as to be synchronized with the exhalation state. In addition, first control unit 21 transmits the temperature value detected by temperature sensor 26 to the outside.

[0050] The second housing 41 of the base unit 40 includes a second flow path 49 between the second inlet 44 and the second outlet 45, and a third flow path 50 between the third inlet 47 and the third outlet 48. A humidifier 51 is provided in the second flow path 49. In the first use state, the humidifier 51 adds humidity to the air flowing through the second flow path 49. This allows the CPAP device 1 to add an appropriate amount of moisture to the air sent toward the airway of the user. In this embodiment, the humidifier 51 is a heating type humidifier.

[0051] As shown in FIG. 6, the humidifier 51 includes a container 511, a heater 512, and a temperature sensor 513. The container 511 is configured to be detachable from the second housing 41. The container 511 stores water. The container 511 also has an introduction pipe communicating with the second introduction part 44, and air is supplied into the container 511 through the introduction pipe. The container 511 has a heater pad corresponding to the heater 512. The heater 512 heats the water in the container 511. The temperature sensor 513 detects the temperature of the heater 512.

[0052] Like the above-mentioned first control unit 21, the second control unit 53 includes, as main components, a calculation processing unit (CPU) that executes a program, a storage unit (ROM / RAM), a communication unit, a drive unit that operates the humidifier 51, and the like. The storage unit includes a ROM that stores data in a non-volatile manner and a RAM that stores data in a volatile manner. The data stored in the storage unit includes data generated by the execution of a program by the calculation processing unit, the heater temperature measured by the temperature sensor 513, data transmitted and received between the first control unit 21 and the communication unit in the first use state, and the like. The data received from the first control unit 21 includes the air temperature value measured by the temperature sensor 26 of the main unit 10. Note that the data received from the first control unit 21 may include data input via the operation unit 12.

[0053] The processing in the arithmetic processing unit is realized by each piece of hardware and software executed by the arithmetic processing unit. Such software is stored in advance in the storage unit. Control of the heater 512 of the humidifier 51, communication with the first control unit 21, and the like are also realized by the software.

[0054] In this embodiment, the second control unit 53 sets a target temperature to which the water in the container 511 is heated, based on the temperature of the air received from the first control unit 21. For example, the second control unit 53 sets the target temperature using a table or a calculation formula stored in the storage unit. Then, based on the heater temperature detected by the temperature sensor 513, the second control unit 53 drives the heater 512 by control such as feedback control or feedforward control so that the heater temperature becomes the target temperature. The heater 512 adjusts the water temperature in the container 511. As a result, the desired humidity is given to the air passing through the container 511.

[0055] The second control unit 53 may stop the humidifier 51, that is, stop controlling the heater 512, based on the air temperature received from the first control unit . A silencer 52 is provided in the third flow path 50. As shown in Fig. 8, the silencer 52 is provided in the mounting portion 43 of the base unit 40 on which the main unit 10 is mounted. The size of the silencer 52 is slightly smaller than the size (outer shape) of the main unit 10. As the volume of the silencer 52 increases, the quietness of the CPAP device 1 increases.

[0056] The silencer 52 is, for example, a resonance tube branched off from the third flow path 50. The resonance tube is formed of a meandering flow path. The resonance tube is also called a Helmholtz resonator or a resonator, and has the function of attenuating noise in a specific frequency band. The resonance tube attenuates sounds in a frequency band determined by the natural frequency.

[0057] 8, the main unit 10 includes a power supply unit 55. An AC adapter (not shown) is connected to the power supply unit 55. The power supply unit 55 generates operating power required for the main unit 10 and the base unit 40. The operating power is supplied to the second control unit 53 of the base unit 40 and the like via the first electrical connection unit 15 of the main unit 10 and the second electrical connection unit 46 of the base unit 40.

[0058] Next, the operation of the above-mentioned CPAP device 1 will be described. The CPAP device 1 includes a main unit 10 and a base unit 40 attached to the main unit 10.

[0059] When at home, the CPAP device 1 can be used in the above-mentioned first usage state by attaching the base unit 40 to the main unit 10. In this first usage state, the base unit 40 is attached to the main unit 10, and the CPAP device 1 can supply humidified air to the user as a CPAP device 1 equipped with a humidifier 51. When staying away from home, etc., the CPAP device 1 can be used in a second usage state in which the base unit 40 is not attached to the main unit 10. In this second usage state, the CPAP device 1 consists of only the main unit 10, so it is only necessary to carry the main unit 10, resulting in high portability.

[0060] The first housing 11 of the main unit 10 has a first introduction portion 13, a first lead-out portion 14, and a first electrical connection portion 15. The first lead-out portion 14 and the first electrical connection portion 15 are provided on a first connection surface 113 of the first housing 11. The second housing 41 of the base unit 40 has a second introduction portion 44, a second lead-out portion 45, and a second electrical connection portion 46. The second introduction portion 44 and the second electrical connection portion 46 are provided on a second connection surface 423 that faces the first connection surface 113 of the first housing 11 in the first use state.

[0061] The first lead-out portion 14 has an annular base portion 142 and a connecting tube portion 143 extending from the base portion 142. The connecting tube portion 143 is formed in a tapered shape such that the outer diameter dimension becomes smaller toward the tip. In other words, the first lead-out portion 14 has the base portion 142 having a cylindrical circumferential surface, and the connecting tube portion 143 having a tapered circumferential surface.

[0062] The first lead-out portion 14 includes a base portion 142 and a connecting tube portion 143. The base portion 142 is connected to the first connecting surface 113. The connecting tube portion 143 extends from the base portion 142 in the opposite direction to the first connecting surface 113. The base portion 142 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The outer peripheral surface of the base portion 142 is a cylindrical surface, and the outside dimensions of the base portion 142 are the same in the direction protruding from the first connecting surface 113 side. The connecting tube portion 143 is formed in a tapered shape such that the outside diameter dimension becomes smaller toward the tip.

[0063] The second introduction portion 44 has a storage portion 442 and a connection protrusion 444. The storage portion 442 is recessed from the second connection surface 423 of the second housing 41 toward the inside of the second housing 41. As shown in FIG. 4(a), the storage portion 442 stores the first lead-out portion 14 of the first housing 11.

[0064] When the first lead-out portion 14 is inserted into the second introduction portion 44, the first lead-out portion 14 moves toward the center of the second introduction portion 44 due to the connecting tube portion 143 having a tapered peripheral surface. This movement of the first lead-out portion 14 relative to the second introduction portion 44 guides the first lead-out portion 14 to a position where the connecting protrusion 444 of the second introduction portion 44 can be inserted into the connecting recess 144 of the first lead-out portion 14. Therefore, the first lead-out portion 14 and the second introduction portion 44 can be easily connected.

[0065] Then, by the movement of the first lead-out portion 14 relative to the second lead-in portion 44, the first housing 11 and the second housing 41 are guided relatively to a position where the first electrical connection portion 15 of the first housing 11 and the second electrical connection portion 46 of the second housing 41 can be electrically connected to each other. In other words, the first lead-out portion 14 and the second lead-in portion 44 function as a first guide portion and a second guide portion that guide the first electrical connection portion 15 and the second electrical connection portion 46 to a position where they can be electrically connected to each other. With this configuration, the first electrical connection portion 15 and the second electrical connection portion 46 can be easily connected to each other.

[0066] In the CPAP device 1 of this embodiment, the outer diameter of the connection tube part 143 on the side of the base part 142 is equal to the outer diameter of the base part 142. The outer diameter of the base part 142 is smaller than the inner diameter of the accommodation part 442 of the second housing 41. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 4(a), the base part 142 is inserted into the accommodation part 442. Then, a gap (clearance) GA is generated between the outer peripheral surface of the base part 142 and the inner peripheral surface of the accommodation part 442. By having this gap GA, the first housing 11 and the second housing 41 can be moved relatively along the first connection surface 113 and the second connection surface 423. This movement allows further alignment of the first electrical connection part 15 and the second electrical connection part 46.

[0067] A connection recess 144 is formed in the connection tube portion 143 of the first outlet portion 14 from its tip toward the base portion 142. A through hole penetrating the base portion 142, the connection tube portion 143, and the connection recess 144 communicates between the outside and the inside of the first housing 11. The first housing 11 has a first outlet port 141 that discharges air to the outside of the first housing 11 by this first outlet portion 14.

[0068] The connection protrusion 444 of the second introduction part 44 is provided on the wall part 443b of the storage part 442. The connection protrusion 444 protrudes toward the open end of the storage part 442. The connection protrusion 444 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The second housing 41 has a second inlet 441 that introduces air into the inside of the second housing 41 by the connection protrusion 444.

[0069] A sealing member 445 is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the connection protrusion 444. The sealing member 445 is housed in a groove provided along the outer circumferential surface of the connection protrusion 444. The sealing member 445 is in close contact with the inner circumferential surface of the connection recess 144 of the first lead-out portion 14 of the first housing 11. The sealing member 445 is, for example, an annular seal member. The sealing member 445 seals between the connection protrusion 444 and the connection recess 144. In other words, the sealing member 445 prevents air from leaking from between the first lead-out portion 14 and the second introduction portion 44.

[0070] In the first usage state in which the base unit 40 is attached to the main unit 10, the second control unit 53 of the base unit 40 controls the humidifier 51 provided in the base unit 40. Therefore, the first control unit 21 of the main unit 10 only needs to control the blower 22 provided in the main unit 10 and accept operations of the operation unit 12. Therefore, compared to controlling the entire CPAP device 1 with the first control unit 21, the calculation load of the first control unit 21 can be kept low, and heat generation can be suppressed.

[0071] As shown in Fig. 3, when the base unit 40 is attached to the main unit 10, the main unit 10 is disposed at a predetermined distance (for example, about 1.5 mm) from the upper surface 431 of the placement part 43 of the base unit 40. As a result, the third introduction part 47 (see Figs. 1 and 2) provided on the base unit 40 communicates with the space outside the CPAP device 1 through the gap between the base unit 40 and the main unit 10. Therefore, air can be efficiently inhaled without being limited in direction, and the main unit 10 is positioned opposite the third introduction part 47, thereby suppressing noise leakage from the third introduction part 47 to the outside.

[0072] As described above, according to the first embodiment, the following effects are achieved. (1-1) When at home, the CPAP device 1 can be used in the above-mentioned first usage state by attaching the base unit 40 to the main unit 10. In this first usage state, by attaching the base unit 40 to the main unit 10, the CPAP device 1 can supply humidified air to the user as a CPAP device 1 equipped with a humidifier 51. When staying away from home, etc., the CPAP device 1 can be used in a second usage state in which the base unit 40 is not attached to the main unit 10. In this second usage state, the CPAP device 1 consists of only the main unit 10, so it is only necessary to carry the main unit 10, achieving high portability.

[0073] (1-2) The first lead-out portion 14 includes a base portion 142 and a connecting tube portion 143. The base portion 142 is connected to the first connecting surface 113. The connecting tube portion 143 extends from the base portion 142 in the opposite direction to the first connecting surface 113. The base portion 142 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The outer peripheral surface of the base portion 142 is a cylindrical surface, and the outside dimensions of the base portion 142 are the same in the direction protruding from the first connecting surface 113 side. The connecting tube portion 143 is formed in a tapered shape such that the outside diameter dimension becomes smaller toward the tip. The second introduction portion 44 has a storage portion 442 and a connecting protrusion 444. The storage portion 442 is recessed from the second connecting surface 423 of the second housing 41 toward the inside of the second housing 41. The storage portion 442 stores the first lead-out portion 14 of the first housing 11.

[0074] According to this configuration, when the first lead-out portion 14 is inserted into the second introduction portion 44, the first lead-out portion 14 moves toward the center of the second introduction portion 44 by the connecting tube portion 143 having a tapered peripheral surface. This movement of the first lead-out portion 14 relative to the second introduction portion 44 guides the first lead-out portion 14 to a position where the connecting protrusion 444 of the second introduction portion 44 can be inserted into the connecting recess 144 of the first lead-out portion 14. Therefore, the first lead-out portion 14 and the second introduction portion 44 can be easily connected.

[0075] In addition, by moving the first lead-out portion 14 relative to the second lead-in portion 44, the first housing 11 and the second housing 41 are guided relatively to a position where the first electrical connection portion 15 of the first housing 11 and the second electrical connection portion 46 of the second housing 41 can be electrically connected to each other. In other words, the first lead-out portion 14 and the second lead-in portion 44 function as a first guide portion and a second guide portion that guide the first electrical connection portion 15 and the second electrical connection portion 46 to a position where they can be electrically connected to each other. With this configuration, the first electrical connection portion 15 and the second electrical connection portion 46 can be easily connected to each other.

[0076] (1-3) In the CPAP device 1 of this embodiment, the outer diameter of the connection tube part 143 on the side of the base part 142 is equal to the outer diameter of the base part 142. The outer diameter of the base part 142 is smaller than the inner diameter of the accommodation part 442 of the second housing 41. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 4(a), the base part 142 is inserted into the accommodation part 442. Then, a gap (clearance) GA is generated between the outer peripheral surface of the base part 142 and the inner peripheral surface of the accommodation part 442. By having this gap GA, the first housing 11 and the second housing 41 can be moved relatively along the first connection surface 113 and the second connection surface 423. This movement enables further alignment of the first electrical connection part 15 and the second electrical connection part 46.

[0077] (1-4) A sealing member 445 is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the connection protrusion 444. The sealing member 445 is accommodated in a groove provided along the outer circumferential surface of the connection protrusion 444. The sealing member 445 is in close contact with the inner circumferential surface of the connection recess 144 of the first lead-out portion 14 of the first housing 11. The sealing member 445 is, for example, an annular seal member. This sealing member 445 seals between the connection protrusion 444 and the connection recess 144. That is, this sealing member 445 can prevent air from leaking from between the first lead-out portion 14 and the second introduction portion 44. In addition, by providing the sealing member 445 on the connection protrusion 444 in the accommodation portion 442 of the base unit 40, it is possible to prevent the sealing member 445 from being damaged or lost when the main unit 10 is carried.

[0078] (1-5) In the first use state in which the base unit 40 is attached to the main unit 10, the main unit 10 is disposed at a predetermined distance (for example, about 1.5 mm) from the upper surface 431 of the placement portion 43 of the base unit 40. As a result, the third introduction portion 47 (see Figs. 1 and 2) provided on the base unit 40 communicates with the space outside the CPAP device 1 through the gap between the base unit 40 and the main unit 10. Therefore, air can be efficiently inhaled without being limited in direction, and the main unit 10 is positioned opposite the third introduction portion 47, thereby suppressing noise leakage from the third introduction portion 47 to the outside.

[0079] The second embodiment will be described below. In the following description of the second embodiment, the description of the same parts as those in the first embodiment will be simplified or omitted. 19 and 20, the bottom surface 112 of the first housing 11 is a third connection surface 112 that is placed on the base unit 40 in the first use state and placed on the floor or a table in the second use state. The third connection surface 112 is perpendicular to and adjacent to the first connection surface 113.

[0080] A first introduction section 13 that introduces air from outside the first housing 11 into the first housing 11 is provided on the first connection surface 113 of the first housing 11. The first introduction section 13 is composed of a plurality of through holes.

[0081] Further, a first outlet portion 201 that outlets air from the inside to the outside of the first housing 11 is provided alongside the first introduction portion 13 on the first connection surface 113. The first outlet portion 201 protrudes from the first connection surface 113. The first outlet portion 201 is cylindrical. A groove is formed in the outer circumferential surface of the first outlet portion 201 at a location that contacts the first connection surface 113. A ring-shaped sealing member 204 is fitted into the groove.

[0082] Two first guide parts 202 protrude from the first connection surface 113 of the first housing 11. The first guide parts 202 are located above the first lead-out part 201 and the first introduction part 13. The first guide parts 202 are provided at both ends of the width direction perpendicular to the up-down direction of the first connection surface 113 when the first connection surface 113 is viewed in a plane. That is, the first guide parts 202 are provided at the upper corners of the first connection surface 113, one each. The first guide parts 202 are substantially L-shaped so as to follow the corner shape when viewed in a plane from a direction perpendicular to the first connection surface 113. The length by which the first guide parts 202 protrude from the first connection surface 113 is substantially the same as the length by which the first lead-out part 201 protrudes from the first connection surface 113.

[0083] 20, a first electrical connection portion 203 for electrically connecting the main unit 10 and the base unit 40 is provided approximately in the center of the third connection surface 112 of the first housing 11. The first electrical connection portion 203 is a female connector, and is provided inside the first housing 11 so as not to protrude from the first connection surface 113.

[0084] 19 to 21, the base unit 40 includes a second housing 41. In the second housing 41, an upper surface 431 of the mounting portion 43 serves as a fourth connection surface 431 that faces the third connection surface 112 of the first housing 11 in the up-down direction in the first use state.

[0085] 20, a second inlet section 44 for introducing air from the outside of the second housing 41 is provided on the second connection surface 423 of the second housing 41. The second inlet section 44 is a through hole that penetrates from the inside to the outside of the second housing 41. A third outlet section 48 for introducing air from the second housing 41 is provided on the second connection surface 423. The third outlet section 48 is a through hole that penetrates from the inside to the outside of the second housing 41.

[0086] In addition, two second guide parts 602 are provided on the second connection surface 423. The second guide parts 602 are through holes penetrating the inside and outside of the second housing 41. The second guide parts 602 are located above the third lead-out part 48 and the second introduction part 44. In addition, the second guide parts 602 are provided at both ends in the width direction perpendicular to the up-down direction of the second connection surface 423 when the second connection surface 423 is viewed from above. That is, the second guide parts 602 are provided one each at the upper corners of the second connection surface 423. In addition, the second guide parts 602 are substantially L-shaped when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the second connection surface 423 so that the first guide parts 202 fit into them.

[0087] An outer wall 650 protrudes upward from fourth connecting surface 431. Outer wall 650 extends along three sides of the outer edge of fourth connecting surface 431 excluding the boundary between second connecting surface 423 and fourth connecting surface 431. The protruding length of outer wall 650 from fourth connecting surface 431 is, for example, about several mm to a dozen mm.

[0088] Further, six third guide portions 652 protrude upward from the fourth connection surface 431. The third guide portions 652 are disposed on the edge of the fourth connection surface 431. Therefore, the third guide portions 652 are connected to the above-mentioned outer wall 650. Two third guide portions 652 are disposed on each of the three sides of the fourth connection surface 431 on which the outer wall 650 exists. Therefore, when the fourth connection surface 431 is viewed from above, two third guide portions 652 exist on each of a pair of long sides facing each other in the short direction of the fourth connection surface 431.

[0089] The third guide portion 652 is in the shape of a flat plate. In a plan view, the third guide portion 652 is in the shape of a trapezoid with the side on the fourth connection surface 431 side as the long side and the upper side as the short side. The side on the center side of the fourth connection surface 431 in the third guide portion 652 is inclined so as to face the center side of the fourth connection surface 431 as it goes from the short side side to the long side side. That is, the edge part on the center side of the fourth connection surface 431 in the third guide portion 652 faces the first housing 11 side in the first use state, and is an inclined part 653 that is inclined so as to face the center side of the fourth connection surface 431 as it goes from the tip end to the base end.

[0090] 21 , a hole 701 is recessed at approximately the center of the fourth connection surface 431 of the second housing 41. A second electrical connection portion 603 is disposed in the hole 701. The second electrical connection portion 603 contacts the first electrical connection portion 203 in the first usage state. In this embodiment, the second electrical connection portion 603 is a male connector having a terminal that is connected to and separated from the first electrical connection portion 203.

[0091] A spring 700 is accommodated in the bottom of the hole 701 as an elastic member. The spring 700 is interposed between the bottom surface of the hole 701 and the second electrical connection portion 603. In FIG. 21, the shape of the spring 700 is simplified. The spring 700 biases the second electrical connection portion 603 upward. When no force is applied to the second electrical connection portion 603 from the outside, the second electrical connection portion 603 is biased by the spring 700 and protrudes upward from the fourth connection surface 431. In this manner, the second electrical connection portion 603 is movable in a direction perpendicular to the fourth connection surface 431. By attaching the base unit 40 to the main unit 10, the second electrical connection portion 603 is stored inside the second housing 41. The first electrical connection portion 203 and the second electrical connection portion 603 are electrically connected.

[0092] The first electrical connection portion 203 and the second electrical connection portion 603 are provided for electrical connection and disconnection between the main unit 10 and the base unit 40. In this embodiment, the first electrical connection portion 203 and the second electrical connection portion 603 are used for supplying power to the base unit 40 and transmitting and receiving data by digital signals. Note that the power supply and the data transmission and reception can also be performed by separate connection portions. For example, contactless power supply, short-distance wireless communication, etc. can also be used in combination.

[0093] 20, both the third connection surface 112 and the fourth connection surface 431 are substantially rectangular, but the third connection surface 112 has smaller dimensions than the fourth connection surface 431. Specifically, the longitudinal dimension of the third connection surface 112 is shorter than the fourth connection surface 431 by approximately one long side of the third guide portion 652. Moreover, the width dimension of the third connection surface 112 in the width direction is shorter than the fourth connection surface 431 by approximately two long sides of the third guide portion 652.

[0094] Next, the operation of the second embodiment will be described. When attaching the base unit 40 to the main unit 10, first, the base unit 40 is tilted and brought closer from above at an angle, so that a part of the tip side of the first guide part 202 is inserted into the inside of the second guide part 602. Then, the first housing 11 is rotated with the tip part of the first guide part 202 inserted into the second guide part 602 as a fulcrum so that the third connection surface 112 of the first housing 11 and the fourth connection surface 431 of the second housing 41 approach each other. When the first housing 11 is rotated, the first lead-out part 201 protruding from the first connection surface 113 is accommodated in the second introduction part 44 penetrating the second connection surface 423. When the first housing 11 is further rotated, the first guide part 202 is also gradually inserted into the inside of the second guide part 602, and finally, substantially the entirety of the first guide part 202 is inserted into the inside of the second guide part 602.

[0095] Then, when the first housing 11 is rotated as described above and the first guide portion 202 is fully inserted into the second guide portion 602, the first lead-out portion 201 is connected to the second introduction portion 44 without any gaps by the sealing member 204 provided on the outer periphery of the first lead-out portion 201. At the same time that the first lead-out portion 201 and the second introduction portion 44 are connected, the first introduction portion 13 and the third lead-out portion 48 are connected to each other.

[0096] If the first housing 11 is rotated in a state in which the first housing 11 is misaligned in the width direction relative to the second housing 41, the third connection surface 112 comes into contact with the third guide portion 652 arranged on either side in the width direction of the fourth connection surface 431. If the first housing 11 is rotated in this state, the third connection surface 112 approaches the fourth connection surface 431 while being guided toward the center of the fourth connection surface 431 by sliding along the inclined portion 653 of the third guide portion 652.

[0097] When the third connection surface 112 and the fourth connection surface 431 approach each other, two third guide portions 652 arranged in the longitudinal direction of the fourth connection surface 431 may come into contact with the third connection surface 112. In this case, the first housing 11 is guided by the inclined portions 653 of the third guide portions 652 in a direction in which the first connection surface 113 approaches the second connection surface 423.

[0098] Furthermore, when the third connection surface 112 and the fourth connection surface 431 approach each other, the second electrical connection portion 603 is pressed down by the third connection surface 112 and moves to be stored inside the second housing 41. That is, when the first housing 11 presses down the second electrical connection portion 603 due to the rotation of the first housing 11, the spring 700 provided inside the second housing 41 contracts, and the second electrical connection portion 603 moves downward.

[0099] When the first guide portion 202 and the second guide portion 602 are connected, the third connection surface 112 and the fourth connection surface 431 are closest to each other, the second electrical connection portion 603 comes into contact with the first electrical connection portion 203, and the first electrical connection portion 203 and the second electrical connection portion 603 are electrically connected.

[0100] Next, the effects of the second embodiment will be described. (2-1) When attaching the base unit 40 to the main unit 10, the first housing 11 is rotated and attached using the first guide portion 202 and the second guide portion 602 as fulcrums. At that time, it is important to rotate the first housing 11 while aligning the respective members of the first housing 11 and the respective members of the second housing 41 so that they are connected to each other. For example, it is preferable that the first lead-out portion 201 and the second introduction portion 44 are attached without being obliquely misaligned so that the first lead-out portion 201 is connected to the second introduction portion 44 without any gap. In addition, the connection between the first electrical connection portion 203 and the second electrical connection portion 603 requires that the terminals of each portion are in appropriate contact with each other so that they can be electrically connected.

[0101] In this embodiment, the first lead-out portion 201 is provided on the first connection surface 113, and the first electrical connection portion 203 is provided on the third connection surface 112. Therefore, the operation of connecting the first lead-out portion 201 and the operation of connecting the first electrical connection portion 203 can be performed at different times. This makes it easy to attach the base unit 40 to the main unit 10.

[0102] (2-2) The first guide portion 202 is disposed above the first lead-out portion 201 and the first introduction portion 13 on the first connection surface 113. Similarly, the second guide portion 602 is disposed above the third lead-out portion 48 and the second introduction portion 44 on the second connection surface 423. Therefore, when the base unit 40 is attached to the main unit 10 from diagonally above, if the first connection surface 113 and the second connection surface 423 are brought closer to each other, the tip of the first guide portion 202 can be easily inserted into the second guide portion 602.

[0103] (2-3) The first guide portion 202 is provided on the first connecting surface 113 at both ends in the width direction of the first connecting surface 113. Similarly, the second guide portion 602 is provided on the second connecting surface 423 at both ends in the width direction of the second connecting surface 423. In this manner, by arranging the two first guide portions 202 and the two second guide portions 602 with as much distance as possible in the width direction, it is possible to prevent the first housing 11 from tilting in the width direction during the process of rotating the first housing 11 around the tip of the first guide portion 202 as a fulcrum.

[0104] (2-4) In the present embodiment, the second electrical connection portion 603 is movable relative to the fourth connection surface 431 in a direction perpendicular to the fourth connection surface 431. This makes it possible to prevent damage to the second electrical connection portion 603 due to an impact when attaching the base unit 40 to the main unit 10.

[0105] (2-5) In this embodiment, a spring 700 is disposed below the second electrical connection portion 603. The spring 700 biases the second electrical connection portion 603 so that it protrudes upward from the fourth connection surface 431. For example, when the first housing 11 is removed in the first use state, the second electrical connection portion 603 is biased upward by the spring 700 and automatically returns to its original protruding position. In this way, by biasing the second electrical connection portion 603 upward, the second electrical connection portion 603 is pressed against the first electrical connection portion 203 in the first use state, and the electrical connection between the two can be ensured.

[0106] (2-6) In this embodiment, the third guide portion 652 has an inclined portion 653 that faces the third connection surface 112 in the first use state and inclines toward the center of the fourth connection surface 431 from the protruding tip to the base end. Due to the presence of this third guide portion 652, when an attempt is made to attach the first housing 11 in a state in which the third connection surface 112 is misaligned with respect to the width direction of the fourth connection surface 431, the first housing 11 is guided in the inclined direction by the inclined portion 653 of the third guide portion 652. Therefore, the first housing 11 can be attached to the second housing 41 in the correct position.

[0107] (2-7) In the present embodiment, two third guide portions 652 are arranged on each pair of opposing sides of the three sides of the fourth connecting surface 431 excluding the boundary with the second connecting surface 423. If at least one third guide portion 652 is arranged on each pair of sides as in the present embodiment, when attaching the base unit 40 to the main unit 10, the third guide portion 652 can guide the first housing 11 to the correct position even if the third connecting surface 112 is misaligned to either side in the width direction relative to the fourth connecting surface 431.

[0108] (2-8) In the present embodiment, the third guide portion 652 is disposed on the edge of the fourth connecting surface 431, and the third guide portion 652 is connected to the outer wall 650. In this state, the third guide portion 652 and the outer wall 650 reinforce each other, so that the third guide portion 652 and the outer wall 650 are less likely to be damaged even when an external force is applied.

[0109] (Example of change) This embodiment can be modified and implemented as follows. The present embodiment and the following modified examples can be implemented in combination with each other to the extent that no technical contradiction occurs.

[0110] In the first embodiment, the storage portion 442 of the second introduction portion 44 can be the second introduction port, as shown in Fig. 9. In this case, by inserting the first outlet portion 14 into the second introduction port, the first electrical connection portion 15 and the second electrical connection portion 46 can be aligned and easily connected.

[0111] 10, in the first embodiment, one sealing member 445 may be provided at an opening portion of the accommodation portion 442 that serves as the second inlet. This sealing member 445 seals between the accommodation portion 442 and the base portion 142 of the first outlet portion 14. Furthermore, when the first outlet portion 14 is accommodated in the accommodation portion 442, the sealing member 445 abuts against the connecting tube portion 143 of the first outlet portion 14, thereby reducing misalignment of the first outlet portion 14.

[0112] In the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 11, one sealing member 445 may be provided on the base portion 142 of the first lead-out portion 14. In the first embodiment, as shown in Fig. 12, three sealing members 445 may be provided at the opening of the storage section 442 that serves as the second inlet. Also, as shown in Fig. 13, three sealing members 445 may be provided at the base 142 of the first lead-out section 14. The number of sealing members 445 may be two or four or more. This can improve the sealing performance.

[0113] In the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 14, a part or the whole of the outer circumferential surface of the base 142 may be noncircular when viewed from the tip side of the first lead-out section 14, and an opening portion 442a of the storage section 442 serving as the second inlet, which faces the outer circumferential surface of the base 142, may be noncircular in a shape substantially similar to the noncircular portion of the first lead-out section 14. For example, as shown in FIG. 15(a), the base 142 may be hexagonal. Also, as shown in FIG. 15(b), the base 142 may be elliptical. The noncircular shape may be any shape, such as a polygon having more than one side, an ellipse, or a polygon having a part of an arc shape. With this configuration, the relative rotation between the first lead-out section 14 and the second lead-in section 44 can be suppressed and positioned.

[0114] 16, in the first embodiment, a recess 31 facing the inside of the first housing 11 may be provided on the first connection surface 113 of the main unit 10, and the first lead-out portion 14 may be disposed in the recess 31, while a tube portion 61 may be provided on the second connection surface 423 of the base unit 40, with the inside of the tube portion 61 serving as the storage portion 442. With this configuration, the first lead-out portion 14 does not protrude from the first housing 11 in the portable main unit 10, and therefore damage to the main unit 10 can be suppressed.

[0115] In the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 17 , a second introduction portion 44 and a second electrical connection portion 46 may be provided on an upper surface 431 of the mounting portion 43 of the base unit 40, and a first introduction portion 14 and a first electrical connection portion 15 may be provided on a lower surface 112 of the main unit 10.

[0116] In the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 18, the first housing 11 of the main unit 10 has a first connection surface 113 and a third connection surface 117 that is different in position from the first connection surface 113 in the longitudinal direction of the main unit 10, and the first introduction part 13 shown in FIG. 1 is provided on the third connection surface 117. The second housing 41 of the base unit 40 has a fourth connection surface 424 that faces the third connection surface 117, and the third outlet part 48 is provided on the fourth connection surface 424. The CPAP device 1 having such a structure also has the same effect as the above embodiment. It is preferable that the first connection surface 113 and the third connection surface 117 are substantially parallel, and it is preferable that the second connection surface 423 and the fourth connection surface 424 are substantially parallel.

[0117] In the first embodiment, the first lead-out portion 14 and the first electrical connection portion 15, and the second lead-in portion 44 and the second electrical connection portion 46 may be provided on different surfaces in the main unit 10. For example, the first electrical connection portion 15 and the second electrical connection portion 46 may be provided on the lower surface 112 of the main unit 10 and the upper surface 431 of the mounting portion 43 of the base unit 40, respectively, and the first lead-out portion 14 and the second lead-in portion 44 may be provided on the first connection surface 113 of the first housing 11 and the second lead-in portion 44 may be provided on the second connection surface 423, respectively. Also, in the first housing 11 and the second housing 41 configured as shown in FIG. 18, the first electrical connection portion 15 and the second electrical connection portion 46 may be provided on the third connection surface 117 and the fourth connection surface 424.

[0118] In the second embodiment, there is no restriction on the number of sealing members 204. As long as there is no hindrance to the connection between the first outlet portion 201 and the second introduction portion 44, the number of sealing members 204 may be increased or omitted.

[0119] In the second embodiment, the location of the sealing member 204 is not limited to the outer periphery of the first outlet portion 201. For example, the sealing member 204 may be provided on the inner periphery of the second introduction portion 44. In the second embodiment, only one first guide portion 202 may be provided on the first connection surface 113, or three or more first guide portions 202 may be provided. When the number of first guide portions 202 is changed, the second guide portions 602 are provided on the second connection surface 423 in accordance with the number of first guide portions 202. In this case, each second guide portion 602 is disposed at a position where it can be fitted with the first guide portion 202 in the first use state.

[0120] In the second embodiment, the shape of the first guide part 202 is not limited to an L-shape. For example, it may be a cylindrical protrusion. When the shape of the first guide part 202 is changed, the shape of the second guide part 602 may also be changed to a shape that can be fitted with the first guide part 202.

[0121] In the second embodiment, the length by which the first guide portion 202 protrudes from the first connection surface 113 may be equal to or greater than the length by which the first lead-out portion 201 protrudes from the first connection surface 113. However, the length of the first guide portion 202 is preferably a length that allows the first housing 11 to be rotated quickly when the base unit 40 is attached to the main unit 10.

[0122] In the second embodiment, the second guide portion 602 may be a member that protrudes in an L shape that follows the shape of a corner when viewed in a plan view from a direction perpendicular to the second connecting surface 423, and the first guide portion 202 may be an L-shaped through hole when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the first connecting surface 113. In this manner, it is sufficient that a convex portion is formed on one of the first connecting surface 113 and the second connecting surface 423 and a concave portion is formed on the other so that the first guide portion 202 and the second guide portion 602 fit together.

[0123] In the second embodiment, the second guide portion 602 does not have to be a through hole, and may be a hole with a bottom, so long as it has a shape recessed from the outside to the inside of the second connecting surface 423. In the second embodiment, the first electrical connection portion 203 may be disposed anywhere on the third connection surface 112. However, the first electrical connection portion 203 is preferably disposed at a position that does not interfere with the third introduction portion 47 disposed on the third connection surface 112. In addition, the position of the second electrical connection portion 603 on the fourth connection surface 431 may be changed in accordance with the position of the first electrical connection portion 203.

[0124] In the second embodiment, the third guide portion 652 may have a shape that is appropriately changed as long as it faces the first housing 11 in the first use state and has an inclined portion 653 that is inclined from the tip end toward the center of the fourth connecting surface 431 toward the base end. For example, the third guide portion 652 may be cylindrical, or may have a shape that extends over the entire outer wall 650.

[0125] In the second embodiment, the third guide portions 652 may be arranged on each of a pair of opposing sides of the three sides of the fourth connection surface 431 excluding the boundary with the second connection surface 423. The number of third guide portions 652 is not limited to that of the second embodiment. For example, the third guide portions 652 may not be arranged on the non-opposing sides of the three sides of the fourth connection surface 431 excluding the boundary with the second connection surface 423. In that case, when attaching the base unit 40 to the main unit 10, it is recommended to take some measure during attachment, such as holding the first housing 11 with a hand so as not to cause a positional shift in the longitudinal direction.

[0126] In the second embodiment, the protruding length of the outer wall 650 may be changed as appropriate. Also, the outer wall 650 may be provided on at least a part of the edge of the third connecting surface 112. In the second embodiment, the outer wall 650 can be omitted.

[0127] In the second embodiment, the member that biases the second electrical connection portion 603 does not have to be the spring 700. For example, the second electrical connection portion 603 may be supported by a cylindrical elastic member such as rubber, and when the second electrical connection portion 603 is pressed down, the cylindrical elastic member elastically contracts to store the second electrical connection portion 603 inside the second housing 41.

[0128] In the second embodiment, the structure for moving the second electrical connection portion 603 is not limited to an elastic member. For example, the second housing 41 may be provided with a lever or the like that is mechanically connected to the second electrical connection portion 603, and the second electrical connection portion 603 may be moved by operating this lever.

[0129] In each embodiment, the first control unit 21 of the main unit 10 may be configured to control the humidifier 51 of the base unit 40, and the second control unit 53 of the base unit 40 can be omitted. The first control unit 21 detects the heater temperature with the temperature sensor 513 via the first electrical connection unit 15 and the second electrical connection unit 46, and controls the heater 512 based on the heater temperature. [Explanation of symbols]

[0130] 1...CPAP device, 2...air tube, 3...mask, 10...main unit (first unit), 40...base unit (second unit), 21...first control unit, 22...blower, 13...first introduction section, 14...first outlet section, 44...second introduction section, 45...second outlet section, 51...humidifier, 53...second control unit.

Claims

[Claim 1] A CPAP device that delivers air introduced into the device to a user's airway, A first unit and a second unit that is detachable from the first unit, the first unit includes a first housing having a first inlet portion and a first outlet portion and a first connection surface connectable to the second unit, and a blower for discharging air introduced from the first inlet portion through the first outlet portion, the second unit includes a second housing having a second connection surface connectable to the first unit, the second housing having a second inlet portion connectable to the first outlet portion and introducing air from the first outlet portion and a second outlet portion connecting the second inlet portion to the outside, and a humidifier that humidifies the air introduced from the second inlet portion, the second housing further includes a third inlet portion that introduces air from the outside, and a third outlet portion that is connectable to the first inlet portion and that discharges the air introduced from the third inlet portion, the first inlet portion and the first outlet portion are located on the first connection surface, The second inlet portion and the third outlet portion are located on the second connection surface. CPAP device.

Citation Information

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