Acoustic detection and / or analysis in a respiratory therapy device

Abstract

To provide medical devices used in the screening, diagnosis, monitoring, amelioration, treatment or prevention of respiratory disorders improved in one or more of comfort, cost, efficacy, ease of use, and manufacturability.SOLUTION: An apparatus for treatment of a respiratory condition comprises: a pressure generator configured to generate a flow of breathable gas; an intermediate component pneumatically connected to an air delivery tube, the intermediate component comprising a port configured to facilitate propagation of sound outside of the intermediate component; a sensor attached externally to the intermediate component and located adjacently to the port of the intermediate component, the sensor configured to sense sound propagated through the air delivery tube; and a controller. The controller can be configured to: receive a sound signal generated by the sensor as a result of sensing sound during operation of the apparatus; analyze the received sound signal; and effect a response based at least in part on the analysis.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 13

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Part of the disclosure of this patent document contains content that is copyrighted. The copyright owner has no objection if someone reproduces this patent document or this patent disclosure by fax, provided it is as described in the patent file or record of the Patent Office and for the intended purpose, but retains all copyrights for other purposes.

[0002] 1 Cross - References to Related Applications This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 011,052 (filing date: April 16, 2020) and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 048,535 (filing date: July 6, 2020). The entire disclosures of these documents are incorporated herein by reference.

Background Art

[0003] 2 Background of the Technology 2.1 Field of the Technology This technology relates to one or more of screening, diagnosing, monitoring, treating, preventing, and improving respiratory - related disorders. This technology also relates to medical devices or apparatuses and their use.

[0004] 2.2 Description of Related Technologies 2.2.1 The Human Respiratory System and Its Disorders The body's respiratory system facilitates gas exchange. The nose and mouth form the entrance to the patient's airway.

[0005] These airways include a series of branching tubes that become narrower, shorter, and more numerous as they progress deeper into the lungs. The primary function of the lungs is gas exchange, taking oxygen from the inhaled 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 make up the conducting airways 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, which is called the respiratory zone. See the following: "Respiratory Physiology", by John B. West, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 9th edition published 2012.

[0006] There is a range of respiratory disorders. Certain disorders can be characterized by certain events (e.g., apnea, hypopnea, and hyperventilation).

[0007] Examples of respiratory disorders include obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), Cheyne-Stokes respiration (CSR), respiratory insufficiency, obesity hypoventilation syndrome (OHS), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), neuromuscular disease (NMD), and chest wall disorders.

[0008] Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a form of sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) characterized by events such as closure or obstruction of the upper airway during sleep. This is the result of a combination of an abnormally small upper airway and the normal loss of muscle tone in the tongue area, and the normal loss of the soft palate and posterior oropharyngeal wall during sleep. Due to such a disease, the breathing cessation of affected patients typically lasts for 30 to 120 seconds, and sometimes the breathing stops 200 to 300 times a night. As a result, excessive daytime sleepiness occurs and can cause cardiovascular disease and brain damage. This syndrome is a common disorder, especially common in middle-aged overweight men, but patients have no awareness of the symptoms. See U.S. Patent No. 4,944,310 (Sullivan).

[0009] Cheyne-Stokes respiration (CSR) is another form of sleep-disordered breathing. CSR is a disorder of the patient's respiratory controller, in which alternating periods of increasing and decreasing ventilation, known as the CSR cycle, occur periodically. CSR is characterized by repeated deoxygenation and reoxygenation of arterial blood. Due to the repeated hypoxia, CSR can be harmful. In some patients, CSR is associated with recurrent sleep arousals that cause severe insomnia, increased sympathetic activity, and increased afterload. See U.S. Patent No. 6,532,959 (Berthon-Jones).

[0010] Respiratory insufficiency is a general term for respiratory disorders and refers to the inability of the lungs to perform adequate oxygen inhalation or adequate CO2 exhalation to meet the patient's needs. Respiratory insufficiency may include some or all of the following disorders.

[0011] Patients with respiratory insufficiency (a type of respiratory disorder) may experience abnormal shortness of breath during exercise.

[0012] Obesity hypoventilation syndrome (OHS) is defined as the combination of severe obesity and chronic hypercapnia during wakefulness in the absence of other clearly identified causes of hypoventilation. Symptoms include dyspnea, headache upon awakening, and excessive daytime sleepiness.

[0013] Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) encompasses any of a group of lower airway diseases that share certain common characteristics. These include an increase in resistance to the movement of air, prolongation of the expiratory phase of breathing, and a decrease in normal elasticity in the lungs. Examples of COPD include emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Causes of COPD include chronic smoking (the primary risk factor), occupational exposure, air pollution, and genetic factors. Symptoms include dyspnea on exertion, chronic cough, and sputum production.

[0014] Neuromuscular diseases (NMDs) are a broad term encompassing a number of disorders and conditions that impair muscle function either directly through intrinsic muscle pathology or indirectly through neuropathy. Among NMD patients, some are characterized by progressive muscle impairment, which ultimately leads to inability to walk, confinement to a wheelchair, difficulty swallowing, reduced respiratory muscle strength, and finally death due to respiratory failure. Neuromuscular disorders can be classified into the following two categories: rapidly progressive and slowly progressive: (i) rapidly progressive disorders: characterized by muscle impairment that worsens over several months and leads to death within a few years (e.g., amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) in teenagers); (ii) variable or slowly progressive disorders: characterized by muscle impairment that worsens over several years and only slightly reduces the average life expectancy (e.g., limb-girdle, facioscapulohumeral, and myotonic muscular dystrophy). Symptoms of respiratory failure in NMDs include increased general weakness, difficulty swallowing, dyspnea during exertion and at rest, fatigue, drowsiness, headache upon waking, and difficulty with concentration and mood changes.

[0015] Chest wall disorders are a group of chest deformities that cause ineffectiveness of the connection between the respiratory muscles and the chest wall. These disorders are mainly characterized by restrictive disorders and share the potential for long-term hypercapnic respiratory failure. Scoliosis and / or kyphoscoliosis may develop severe respiratory failure. Symptoms of respiratory failure include dyspnea during exertion, peripheral edema, orthopnea, recurrent chest infections, headache upon waking, fatigue, reduced sleep quality, and loss of appetite.

[0016] To treat or improve such diseases, a range of treatments are being used. Additionally, in other aspects, healthy individuals can also benefit from preventive treatment for respiratory disorders. However, these have several drawbacks.

[0017] 2.2.2 Treatment A variety of treatments (e.g., continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment, non-invasive ventilation (NIV), and invasive ventilation (IV)) are being used for the treatment of one or more of the above respiratory disorders.

[0018] Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is used in the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). As its mechanism of action, for example, by pushing the soft palate and tongue to move forward or backward against the posterior oropharyngeal wall, continuous positive airway pressure functions as an air pressure sprint, thereby preventing upper airway closure. Since the treatment of OSA by CPAP therapy can be spontaneous, if such a patient notices one or more of the following about the device used to provide the treatment, the patient may choose not to comply with the treatment: discomfort, difficulty in use, high cost, lack of aesthetic appeal.

[0019] Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) provides ventilatory assistance to the patient through the upper airway and performs part or all of the respiratory function to provide respiratory assistance to the patient and / or maintain an appropriate oxygen level in the body. The ventilatory assistance is provided via a non-invasive patient interface. NIV is used in the treatment of CSR and respiratory failure in forms such as OHS, COPD, NMD, and chest wall disorders. In some forms, the comfort and effectiveness of these treatments can be improved.

[0020] Invasive ventilation (IV) provides ventilatory assistance to patients who are no longer able to breathe effectively on their own and can be provided using a tracheostomy tube. In some forms, the comfort and effectiveness of these treatments can be improved.

[0021] 2.2.3 Treatment System These treatments can be provided by a treatment system or device. Such systems and devices can also be used for screening, diagnosis, or monitoring without treating the disease.

[0022] A treatment system can include a respiratory pressure therapy device (RPT device), an air circuit, a humidifier, a patient interface, and data management.

[0023] Another form of treatment system is a mandibular position change device.

[0024] 2.2.3.1 Patient Interface The patient interface can be used to provide an interface to the breathing apparatus to the wearer, for example by providing an air flow to the airway inlet. The air flow can 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 treatment applied, the patient interface can form a seal with the area of the patient's face, thereby promoting gas delivery at a sufficient distributed pressure along with the ambient pressure during treatment execution (e.g., at a positive pressure of about 10 cmH2O relative to the ambient pressure). In other treatment modalities such as oxygen delivery, the patient interface may not include a seal sufficient to promote the delivery of gas supply to the airway at a positive pressure of about 10 cmH2O.

[0025] Certain other mask systems may be functionally inappropriate in the art. For example, in the case of a purely decorative mask, it may not be possible to maintain an appropriate pressure. A mask system used for underwater swimming or diving can be configured to protect against water ingress from higher external pressures and not maintain internal air at a pressure higher than the ambient.

[0026] Certain masks may be clinically unfavorable in this technology (e.g., when the mask blocks the air flow through the nose and only allows air flow through the mouth).

[0027] In certain masks, it may be uncomfortable or impractical in this technology when the patient has to insert a part of the mask structure into the mouth and create and maintain a sealed state through the lips.

[0028] Certain masks may be impractical for use during sleep (e.g., when sleeping on the side in bed with the head on a pillow).

[0029] In the design of patient interfaces, there are multiple challenges. The face has a complex three-dimensional shape. The size and shape of the nose and head vary greatly from individual to individual. Since the head contains bone, cartilage, and soft tissue, different regions of the face exhibit different responses to mechanical forces. That is, the jaw or mandible can move relative to the other bones of the skull. The entire head can move throughout the respiratory therapy period.

[0030] Due to these challenges, in some cases of masks, especially when the wearing time is long or the patient is unfamiliar with the system, there may be one or more of the following reasons: overly pressing, aesthetically undesirable, costly, poor fit, difficult to use, and uncomfortable. If a mask of the wrong size is used, it can lead to a decrease in compliance, comfort, and patient prognosis. Masks designed as part of a pilot's mask, personal protective equipment (e.g., filter mask), SCUBA mask, or anesthesia mask are tolerable for their original uses, but in such cases of masks, they can be unacceptably uncomfortable for wearing over a long period (e.g., several hours). Due to such discomfort, the patient's compliance with treatment may decrease. This is especially true when the mask needs to be worn during sleep.

[0031] CPAP therapy is extremely effective in certain respiratory disorders when the patient is committed to the treatment. If the mask is uncomfortable or difficult to use, the patient may not commit to the treatment. Since patients are often recommended to clean the mask regularly, if the mask is difficult to clean (e.g., difficult to assemble or disassemble), the patient may not be able to clean the mask, which can affect the patient's compliance.

[0032] Masks designed for the treatment of sleep apnea may be suitable for other uses because masks for other uses (e.g., pilots) may not be suitable for use in the treatment of sleep apnea.

[0033] For these reasons, patient interfaces for CPAP delivery during sleep form a distinct field.

[0034] 2.2.3.2 Respiratory Pressure Therapy (RPT) Devices Respiratory Pressure Therapy (RPT) devices can be used individually for the delivery of one or more of the above - mentioned therapies, or as part of a system, for example, by operating the device to generate an air delivery flow to an airway interface. This air flow can be pressurized. Examples of RPT devices include CPAP devices and ventilators.

[0035] Air pressure generators are known in a wide range of applications (e.g., industrial - scale ventilation systems). However, air pressure generators for medical use have specific requirements that are not met by more general air pressure generators (e.g., reliability requirements, size requirements, and weight requirements for medical devices). In addition, even devices designed for medical treatment may be defective in relation to one or more of the following: comfort, noise, ease of use, effectiveness, size, weight, manufacturability, cost, and reliability.

[0036] An example of a special requirement for certain RPT devices is acoustic noise.

[0037] Table of noise output levels of conventional RPT devices (measured at 10 cmH2O in CPAP mode using the test method specified in ISO3744 for a single sample). [Table 1]

[0038] As one known RPT device used for the treatment of sleep disordered breathing, there is the S9 sleep therapy system (manufacturer: ResMed Limited). As another example of an RPT device, there is a ventilator. In the case of a ventilator (e.g., the ResMed Stellar™ series of adult and pediatric ventilators), it can provide assistance for invasive and non-invasive dependent ventilation for a range of patients for the treatment of multiple diseases (non-limiting examples include NMD, OHS, and COPD).

[0039] The ResMed Elis Accutronic® 150 ventilator and the ResMed VSIII™ ventilator can provide assistance for invasive and non-invasive dependent ventilation suitable for adult or pediatric patients for the treatment of multiple diseases. With these ventilators, volume ventilation modes and pressure ventilation modes using single or double limb circuits can be obtained. The RPT device typically includes a pressure generator (e.g., an electric blower or a compressed gas reservoir) and is configured to supply an air flow to the patient's airway. In some cases, the air flow can be supplied to the patient's airway with positive pressure. The outlet of the RPT device is connected to the patient interface as described above via an air circuit.

[0040] The device designers can be presented with countless options. Since the design criteria often conflict with each other, certain design options may be far from convention or unavoidable. Furthermore, the comfort and effectiveness of a particular aspect can also be greatly affected by minor changes in one or more parameters.

[0041] 2.2.3.3 Humidifier When the delivery of the air flow is carried out without humidification, it can lead to drying of the airway. When a humidifier is used together with the RPT device and the patient interface, humidified gas is generated, so the drying of the nasal mucosa is minimized and the comfort of the patient airway is increased. In addition, in a cooler climate, generally adding warm air to the facial area around the patient interface increases comfort more than in the case of cold air.

[0042] Artificial humidification devices and systems in a certain range are known, but they do not meet the special requirements of medical humidifiers.

[0043] Medical humidifiers are typically used to increase the humidity and / or temperature of the air flow relative to the ambient air when the patient is asleep or at rest (e.g., in a hospital), if necessary. A medical humidifier placed at the head of the pillow may be small. A medical humidifier may be configured to humidify and / or heat only the air flow delivered to the patient, and not to humidify and / or heat the area around the patient. For example, room-based systems (e.g., saunas, air conditioners, or evaporative coolers) can also humidify the air taken into the patient's body by breathing, but in the case of these systems, since the entire room is also humidified and / or heated, it can be uncomfortable for the occupants. Further, in the case of medical humidifiers, there may be more stringent safety constraints than for industrial humidifiers.

[0044] 2.2.3.4 Acoustic analysis Patients, caregivers, clinicians, insurance companies, or technicians may wish to collect data related to respiratory therapy, whether related to the patient, to the individual components used in the treatment, or to the entire treatment system. When providing respiratory therapy to a patient, there are numerous situations in which one or more interested parties can benefit from collecting treatment-related data and leveraging the collected data.

[0045] In particular, some components of a respiratory therapy system need to be replaced more frequently than other components for effective treatment. For example, a patient interface with a silicone seal-forming portion can be replaced by the patient in a few months (e.g., three months), while the treatment device can be replaced or upgraded every few years (e.g., three years). In the case of components that are replaced relatively frequently (e.g., the patient interface), patients or caregivers face challenges in receiving reliable and accurate, low-cost notifications regarding the replacement timing of the components. When replacing a component, the patient or caregiver may need to change one or more settings in the therapy system (e.g., software settings in an RT device) so that the therapy system can make the most of the new component. Therefore, the ability to identify the components of a respiratory therapy system is important both for optimizing treatment and for informing patients and caregivers about the replacement timing.

[0046] As one solution, a device may be configured to identify components of a respiratory therapy system, some of which are constituted by acoustic means. In particular, such a device comprises a structure and process configured to analyze acoustic reflections from system components to identify those components more accurately from their "acoustic signatures" than heretofore.

[0047] In such a device, a microphone is arranged and configured to sense sound in the air circuit. Analysis of the sound from the microphone generates an acoustic signature of the system component, whereby the acoustic signature is identified. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0048] The following three problems can affect the sound quality and consistency between a device and the passage of time: variations in the relative positions of the microphone and the air circuit due to manufacturing tolerances; leakage of sound to the surroundings; and conduction of vibrations of the device during use to the microphone. An improved method for connecting a microphone to an air circuit is needed. **Means for Solving the Problems**

[0049] **Brief Description of the Technology** The present technology relates to the provision of medical devices used in the screening, diagnosis, monitoring, improvement, treatment or prevention of respiratory disorders, and these medical devices have one or more of improved comfort, cost, effectiveness, ease of use and manufacturability.

[0050] A first aspect of the present technology relates to a device used in the screening, diagnosis, monitoring, improvement, treatment or prevention of respiratory disorders.

[0051] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a method used in the screening, diagnosis, monitoring, improvement, treatment or prevention of respiratory disorders.

[0052] One aspect of a specific form of the present technology is to provide a method and / or device for improving patient compliance with respect to respiratory therapy.

[0053] One aspect of one form of the present technology is a method of manufacturing a device.

[0054] One aspect of a specific form of the present 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 lacks insight, or a person who has limited experience in using this type of medical device.

[0055] One aspect of one form of the present technology is a portable RPT device that can be carried by a person (e.g., around their home).

[0056] One aspect of one form of the present technology is a patient interface that can be cleaned, for example, with soapy water in the patient's home, and no special cleaning equipment is required. One aspect of one form of the present technology is a humidifier tank that can be cleaned, for example, with soapy water in the patient's home, and no special cleaning equipment is required.

[0057] Aspects of the present technology relate to an intermediate component for connecting an air delivery tube to a respiratory therapy device. The respiratory therapy device may include a pressure generator and / or a water reservoir to which the air delivery tube is connected via the intermediate component. In a broader case, the intermediate component may include any independent component or part of a component that is provided within the air flow path (air passage) or is in fluid communication with the air flow path to receive sound from the air passage. The intermediate component may be removable, replaceable, and / or washable. In certain aspects, when the water reservoir is communicated with the air delivery tube by the intermediate component, the term "intermediate" in the expression "intermediate component" may refer to this communication. However, this may also refer to the component being disposed between a sound source and a sound sensor and providing a link between the two, at least in some particular aspects of the described technology.

[0058] In an example of the above aspect, the cavity that may be included in the water reservoir is structured to hold a certain amount of water and receive a flow of breathable gas. The air delivery tube may be configured to send a flow of humidified breathable gas in the water reservoir to the patient interface. The intermediate component may include: (a) an outlet end configured to connect the air delivery tube to the intermediate component; (b) an inlet end configured to connect the water reservoir to the intermediate component, wherein a central axis of the inlet end is provided at an angle greater than zero with respect to a central axis of the outlet end; (c) a sound port configured to facilitate propagation of sound outside the intermediate component; (d) a port seal disposed around the sound port, the port seal including a sound-permeable membrane configured to provide a peripheral seal formation on an outer surface of the intermediate component and configured to cover the port; (e) the membrane is in the same plane as an inner surface of the intermediate component; (f) the membrane is impermeable to liquid and / or gas; (g) the peripheral seal formation includes a ridge configured with respect to a chassis into which the intermediate component is inserted; (h) the ridge extends upward from an outer surface of the intermediate component by 0.4 to 0.8 mm; (i) the peripheral seal formation includes a lip extending from around the port to a central axis of the port; (j) the lip extends upward from an outer surface of the intermediate component by 0.4 to 0.8 mm; and / or (k) the lip extends obliquely upward from around the port to above the port.

[0059] Aspects of one form of the present technology relate to an intermediate component for connecting an air delivery tube to a respiratory therapy device. The air delivery tube is configured to deliver breathable gas provided from the respiratory therapy device to a patient interface, and the intermediate component includes: an outlet end configured to connect the air delivery tube to the intermediate component; an inlet end configured to connect the respiratory therapy device to the intermediate component, wherein a central axis of the inlet end is provided at an angle greater than zero with respect to a central axis of the outlet end; a sound port configured to facilitate propagation of sound outside the intermediate component; and a port seal disposed around the sound port, the port seal including a sound-permeable membrane configured to provide a circumferential seal formation on an outer surface of the intermediate component and configured to cover the port.

[0060] In an example of the above aspect: (a) the membrane is in the same plane as the inner surface of the intermediate component; (b) the membrane is impermeable to liquids and / or gases; (c) the circumferential seal formation includes a ridge configured with respect to a chassis into which the intermediate component is inserted; (d) the ridge extends 0.4 to 0.8 mm above the outer surface of the intermediate component; (e) the circumferential seal formation includes a lip extending from around the port to the central axis of the port; (f) the lip extends 0.4 to 0.8 mm above the outer surface of the intermediate component; (g) the lip extends obliquely upward from around the port to above the port; and / or (h) the inlet end is configured to connect to a water reservoir, the water reservoir being disposed within the respiratory therapy device and including a cavity structured to hold a certain amount of water and to provide a flow of humidified breathable gas to the air delivery tube via the intermediate component.

[0061] Aspects of one form of the present technology relate to an apparatus for the treatment of respiratory diseases. The apparatus includes: a pressure generator configured to generate a flow of breathable gas; an air delivery tube configured to send the flow of breathable gas from the pressure generator to a patient interface; an intermediate component configured to pneumatically connect the air delivery tube to the pressure generator, the intermediate component including a port configured to facilitate the propagation of sound outside the intermediate component; a sound sensor disposed outside the intermediate component and adjacent to the port of the intermediate component, the sound sensor being configured to sense sound propagating outside the intermediate component; and a controller. The controller is configured to: receive a sound signal generated by the sound sensor due to sound sensing during operation of the apparatus, analyze the received sound signal, and provide a response based at least in part on analyzing the sound signal.

[0062] In an example of the above aspect: (a) the response includes at least one of the following: recording the result of the analysis, displaying the result of the analysis, transferring the result of the analysis, and controlling the operation of the pressure generator based at least in part on the analysis; (b) further includes: a water reservoir having a cavity configured to hold a quantity of water, the water reservoir receiving a flow of breathable gas such that the flow of breathable gas is humidified and then sent to the patient interface; and a water reservoir dock configured and arranged to receive the water reservoir in an operating position;The intermediate component is removably coupled to the water reservoir dock such that a humidified flow of breathable gas is received and this flow is sent to the air delivery tube. (c) The apparatus includes a chassis including a chassis opening, a port within the intermediate component is disposed on a first side of the chassis opening, and a sound sensor is positioned on a second side of the chassis opening. (d) At least one of the sensor and the port is aligned with the chassis opening. (e) The apparatus includes at least one of a membrane and a port seal, the membrane is configured to cover the port and transmit sound from the inside of the intermediate component to the outside of the intermediate component, and the port seal is disposed to provide a sealed engagement between the port and the chassis opening. (f) The membrane and the port seal include an integral body permanently attached to the port. (g) The intermediate component is generally tubular in shape, the water reservoir dock includes a generally tubular opening for receiving the intermediate component, and the intermediate component and the generally tubular opening are configured for generally frictionless insertion into the opening of the intermediate component. (h) One or more engagement-forming portions included in at least one of the intermediate component and the tubular opening are arranged such that upon insertion of the intermediate component into the opening, the intermediate component assumes an operating configuration by engagement of at least one of the engagement-forming portions in the vicinity of the end of the insertion path, and in the operating configuration, both the port and the chassis opening are sealed by the port seal, and at least one of the sealed engagement of the port seal and the port and the chassis and the support engagement provided by at least one engagement-forming portion is configured to prevent a situation where the intermediate component is forced to move from the operating configuration in the absence of a significant external force; (i) One or more of the engagement-forming portions include a high-position feature. (j) Further includes a port seal configured to surround the port, the port seal includes a peripheral seal-forming portion including a ridge configured to abut the surface of the chassis around the chassis opening, and the intermediate component is coupled to the humidifier; (k) The ridge extends 0.4 to 0.8 mm above the outer surface of the intermediate component;(l) further includes a port seal configured to surround the port, the port seal including a peripheral seal formation including a lip configured to abut against the surface of the chassis around the chassis opening when the intermediate component is connected to the humidifier; (m) the lip extends 0.4 to 0.8 mm above the outer surface of the intermediate component; (n) the lip extends obliquely from around the port upward to the central axis of the port; (o) the port seal covers the inner surface of the port and includes a membrane; (p) the membrane is at least in the same plane as the inner or outer surface of the intermediate component; (q) the membrane is impermeable to liquids and / or gases; (r) the controller is configured to determine based on analyzing the characteristics of the air delivery tube or the patient interface; (s) the controller is further configured to determine based on analyzing the type or size of the air delivery tube or the type or size of the patient interface connected to the air delivery tube; (t) the intermediate component includes an outlet end configured to connect the air delivery tube to the intermediate component and an inlet end configured to connect the water reservoir to the intermediate component, the central axis of the inlet end being substantially transverse to the central axis of the outlet end; (u) the inner corner at the inlet end of the intermediate component is rounded; (v) the inner corner includes a bellows including a span between opposing sides of the bellows, the span being no more than twice the radius of the inner corner; (w) the radius of curvature of the inner corner is 0.2 to 5 mm; (x) the water reservoir includes an outlet tube including an outlet for delivering a humidified flow of breathable gas to the air delivery tube, the intermediate component including an inlet seal adapted to form a seal with the outlet tube of the water reservoir; (y) the intermediate component includes an outlet end, and the dock connector included in the air delivery tube includes a radial lip seal adapted to form a seal with the outlet end of the intermediate component, whereby the air delivery tube is pneumatically connected to the intermediate component; (z) in the device, the central axis of the port in the intermediate component is generally aligned with the central axis of the chassis opening on the first side of the chassis opening, and the sound sensor is positioned on the second side of the chassis opening less than 2 mm from the chassis opening;(aa) The sensor is generally aligned with the port and the central axis of the chassis, (ab) the intermediate component is configured to pneumatically connect the air delivery tube to the water reservoir and mechanically connect the air delivery tube to the reservoir dock; (ac) the air delivery tube is configured to be electrically connected to the reservoir dock; (ad) the air delivery tube is configured to form a mechanical connection and an electrical connection at that time when the air delivery tube is connected to the intermediate component; (ae) the dock connector included in the air delivery tube includes a retaining bump adapted to engage each hole provided in the intermediate component, thereby mechanically connecting the air delivery tube to the intermediate component; and / or, (af) the device further includes a transducer configured to generate a flow signal indicative of the characteristics of the air flow, and the controller is configured to: control the operation of the pressure generator; receive the flow signal from the transducer and the sound signal sensed by the sound sensor during the operation of the pressure generator; analyze the received sound signal; and change the operation of the pressure generator based at least in part on the analysis and the flow signal.;

[0063] Aspect of one form of the present technology relates to an intermediate component for connecting an air delivery tube to a respiratory therapy device. The air delivery tube is configured to deliver breathable gas provided from the respiratory therapy device to a patient interface. The intermediate component includes: an outlet end configured to connect the air delivery tube to the intermediate component; an inlet end configured to connect the respiratory therapy device to the intermediate component; and a sound port configured to facilitate the propagation of sound outside the intermediate component.

[0064] In an example of the above aspect: (a) further includes at least one of the following: a sound-permeable membrane configured to cover a port, and a port seal disposed around the sound port, the port seal being configured to provide a peripheral sealing formation on the outer surface of the intermediate component; (b) the central axis of the inlet end is provided at an angle greater than zero with respect to the central axis of the outlet; (c) the membrane is in the same plane as the inner surface of the intermediate component; (d) the membrane is impermeable to liquid and / or gas; (e) the protrusion included in the peripheral sealing formation is configured to seal the sound port against an opening in the wall of the water reservoir dock, which is the insertion destination of the intermediate component; (f) the protrusion extends 0.4 to 0.8 mm above the outer surface of the intermediate component; (g) the peripheral sealing formation includes a lip extending from around the port to the central axis of the port; (h) the lip extends 0.4 to 0.8 mm above the outer surface of the intermediate component; (i) the lip extends obliquely upward from around the port to above the port; (j) the inlet end is configured to connect to a water reservoir that is disposed within the respiratory therapy device and has a structure for holding a certain amount of water, and to provide a flow of humidified breathable gas to the air delivery tube through the intermediate component; and / or (k) at least two of the central axis of the inlet end of the intermediate component, the central axis of the outlet end of the intermediate component, and the central axis of the port are transverse to each other.

[0065] Aspects of one form of the present technology relate to an apparatus including: a pressure generator configured to generate a flow of breathable gas; a water reservoir having a cavity configured to hold a quantity of water, the water reservoir receiving the flow of breathable gas; a water reservoir dock structured and arranged to receive the water reservoir in an operating position; an air delivery tube configured to send a flow of humidified breathable gas in the water reservoir to a patient interface; an intermediate component removably coupled to the water reservoir dock, the intermediate component including a port configured to connect the air delivery tube to the water reservoir and configured to facilitate propagation of sound outside the intermediate component; a sound sensor disposed adjacent to the port of the intermediate component, the sound sensor configured to receive sound propagating into the intermediate component from the air delivery tube and the water reservoir; and circuitry configured to receive a sound signal sensed by the sound sensor during operation of the pressure generator, analyze the received sound signal, and control operation of the pressure generator at least in part based on the analysis.

[0066] In an example of the above aspect: (a) the intermediate component is configured to pneumatically connect the air delivery pipe to the water reservoir and mechanically connect the air delivery pipe to the reservoir dock; (b) further includes a chassis coupled to the water reservoir dock and including a chassis opening, the port in the intermediate component being aligned with the chassis opening on a first side of the chassis opening, and the sound sensor being positioned on a second side of the chassis opening; (c) further includes a port seal, the port seal being disposed around the port and configured to provide a peripheral seal formation on the outer surface of the intermediate component; (d) the peripheral seal formation includes a ridge configured to abut against the surface of the chassis coupled to the water reservoir dock around the chassis opening; (e) the ridge extends 0.4 to 0.8 mm above the outer surface of the intermediate component; (f) the ridge is configured to be pressed against the surface of the chassis when the intermediate component is in the operating position, preventing the intermediate component from being disassembled without sufficient force; (g) the peripheral seal formation includes a lip configured to abut against the surface of the chassis coupled to the water reservoir dock around the chassis opening; (h) the lip extends 0.4 to 0.extends by only 8 mm; (i) the lip extends from the side of the port to above at least a part of the port, and the part of the lip extending above the port is deflected downward when the intermediate component is in the operating position and is configured such that the intermediate component cannot be disassembled without sufficient force; (j) the lip extends obliquely to the central axis of the port from around the port to above the port; (k) the port seal covers the inner surface of the port and includes a membrane, and the membrane is configured to cover the port and transmit sound from the inside of the intermediate component to the outside of the intermediate component; (l) the membrane is in the same plane as the inner surface of the intermediate component; (m) the membrane is impermeable to liquid and / or gas; (n) the circuit mechanism is further configured to determine based on analyzing the type of the air delivery tube connected to the water reservoir; (o) the circuit mechanism is further configured to determine based on analyzing the patient interface connected to the air delivery tube; (p) the circuit mechanism is further configured to determine based on analyzing the patient interface connected to the air delivery tube; (q) the intermediate component includes an outlet end configured to connect the air delivery tube to the intermediate component and an inlet end configured to connect the water reservoir to the intermediate component, and the central axis of the inlet end is provided at an angle of 90° or more with respect to the central axis of the outlet end; (r) the inner corner formed by the angle is rounded; (s) the inner corner formed by the angle includes a bellows including a span between opposite sides of the bellows, and the span is not more than twice the radius of the inner corner; (t) 0.Inner corner portions formed with a radius of curvature of 2 to 5 mm; (u) the air delivery tube is configured to be electrically connected to the reservoir dock; (v) the air delivery tube is configured to form a mechanical connection and an electrical connection when the air delivery tube is connected to an intermediate component; (w) the water reservoir includes an outlet tube that provides an outlet for delivering a humidified flow of breathable gas to the air delivery tube, and the intermediate component includes an inlet seal adapted to form a seal with the outlet tube of the water reservoir; (x) the intermediate component includes a tubular body including an outlet end, and the dock connector included in the air delivery tube includes a radial lip seal, and the radial lip seal is adapted to pneumatically connect the air delivery tube to the intermediate component by forming a seal against the outlet end; (y) the dock connector included in the air delivery tube includes a retaining bump adapted to engage each hole provided in the intermediate component, so that the air delivery tube is mechanically connected to the intermediate component; and / or (z) a chassis coupled to the water reservoir dock and including a chassis opening, wherein the central axis of the port in the intermediate component is aligned with the central axis of the chassis opening on a first side of the chassis opening, and the sound sensor is positioned on a second side of the chassis opening less than 2 mm from the chassis opening.

[0067] Aspects of one form of the present technology relate to a respiratory therapy apparatus including: a pressure generator configured to generate an air flow for treating a respiratory disorder; a transducer configured to generate a flow signal indicative of characteristics of the air flow; an air delivery tube configured to send the air flow to a patient interface; an intermediate component removably coupled to the respiratory therapy apparatus, the intermediate component including a sound port configured to connect the air delivery tube to the pressure generator and configured to facilitate propagation of sound outside the intermediate component; a sound sensor disposed adjacent to the port of the intermediate component, the sound sensor configured to receive sound propagated into the intermediate component from the air delivery tube and the pressure generator; and a controller configured to control the operation of the pressure generator during operation of the pressure generator, receive the flow signal from the transducer and the sound signal sensed by the sound sensor, analyze the received sound signal, and analyze and modify the operation of the pressure generator based at least in part on the flow signal and the received sound signal.

[0068] In an example of the above aspect: (a) the intermediate component is configured to pneumatically connect the air delivery tube to the respiratory therapy device and mechanically connect the air delivery tube to the respiratory therapy device; (b) further includes a chassis, includes a chassis opening, the port within the intermediate component is aligned with the chassis opening on a first side of the chassis opening, and the sound sensor is positioned on a second side of the chassis opening; (c) further includes a port seal, the port seal is disposed around the port and is configured to provide a peripheral seal formation on the outer surface of the intermediate component; (d) the peripheral seal formation includes a ridge configured to abut against the surface of the chassis; (e) the ridge extends 0.4 to 0.8 mm above the outer surface of the intermediate component; (f) the ridge is pressed against the surface of the chassis when the intermediate component is in the operating position and is configured such that the intermediate component cannot be disassembled without sufficient force; (g) the peripheral seal formation includes a lip configured to abut against the surface of the chassis; (h) the lip extends 0.4 to 0. above the outer surface of the intermediate component.extends by only 8 mm; (i) the lip extends from a side portion of the port upwardly over at least a part of the port, and the portion of the lip extending upwardly over the port is deflected toward the port when the intermediate component is in the operating position and is configured such that the intermediate component cannot be disassembled without sufficient force; (j) the lip extends obliquely toward the central axis of the port upwardly from around the port; (k) the port seal covers the inner surface of the port and includes a membrane, and the membrane is configured to cover the port and transmit sound from inside the intermediate component to outside the intermediate component; (l) the membrane is impermeable to liquid and / or gas; (m) the controller is further configured to determine based on analyzing the type of the air delivery tube connected to the water reservoir, determine based on analyzing the patient interface connected to the air delivery tube, and / or determine based on analyzing the patient interface connected to the air delivery tube; (n) the intermediate component includes an outlet end configured to connect the air delivery tube to the intermediate component and an inlet end configured to connect to a pressure generator, and the central axis of the inlet end is provided at an angle of 90° or more with respect to the central axis of the outlet end; (o) the inner corner formed by the angle is a bellows including a span between opposing side portions of the bellows, and the span is not more than twice the radius of the inner corner, the bellows; the radius is 0.including an inner corner formed by a curvature of 2 to 5 mm; (p) the air delivery tube is configured to form a mechanical connection and an electrical connection when the air delivery tube is connected to the intermediate component; (q) the intermediate component includes a tubular body including an outlet end, the dock connector included in the air delivery tube includes a radial lip seal, and the radial lip seal is adapted to form a seal against the outlet end to pneumatically connect the air delivery tube to the intermediate component; (r) the dock connector included in the air delivery tube includes a retaining bump adapted to engage each hole provided in the intermediate component so that the air delivery tube is mechanically connected to the intermediate component; and / or (s) further including a chassis including a chassis opening, a central axis of a port in the intermediate component is aligned with a central axis of the chassis opening on a first side of the chassis opening, and the sound sensor is positioned on a second side of the chassis opening less than 2 mm from the chassis opening.

[0069] One aspect of the present technology relates to a respiratory therapy device including: a source of air flow at positive pressure to the surroundings; a chassis or housing constructed and arranged to be fixed in a location relative to the source during use; an inlet air pressure connection structure for connecting to the source so as to sealably receive the air flow from the source at positive pressure during use; a container for holding a body of water during use, the container being configured to direct the air flow so that the air flow contacts the surface of the body of water during use, whereby water vapor can be transferred from the body of water to the air flow during use to increase the absolute humidity of the air flow, the container including a wall at least partially constructed from a material having a relatively high thermal conductivity, a heating element, a temperature sensor, a controller for controlling the heating element, and an outlet air pressure connection structure for receiving the air flow with a higher absolute humidity. The chassis or housing is configured to hold the container in a location proximate to the heating element, whereby thermal energy can be transferred from the heating element to the body of water to increase the absolute humidity of the air flow. The controller is constructed and arranged to activate the heating element so as to heat the water without boiling the water. Since the respiratory therapy device includes a closed arrangement configuration, the air pressure connection structure has a positive pressure relative to the surroundings when the air flow with increased absolute humidity is received at the outlet during use.

[0070] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a CPAP system including a humidifier, a patient interface, and an air delivery tube for delivering the humidified air to the patient interface. In an example, the humidifier is integrated with an RPT device structured to generate an air flow at positive pressure.

[0071] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a humidifier including a water reservoir having a cavity structured to hold a quantity of water, and a water reservoir dock structured and arranged to receive the water reservoir in an operating position.

[0072] Another aspect of the present technology relates to an apparatus for humidifying a flow of breathable gas. The apparatus includes a water reservoir having a cavity configured to hold a quantity of water, a water reservoir dock structured and arranged to receive the water reservoir in an operating position, and an air delivery tube configured to send a flow of breathable gas humidified in the water reservoir to a patient interface. The air delivery tube is structured and arranged to form a direct pneumatic seal with the water reservoir. The air delivery tube may include a sound port configured to facilitate propagation of sound outside of a port seal disposed around the air delivery tube and the sound port. The port seal may include a sound port configured to provide a peripheral seal formation on an outer surface of the air delivery tube and include a sound-permeable membrane configured to cover the port.

[0073] Another aspect of the present technology relates to an apparatus for humidifying a flow of breathable gas. The apparatus includes a water reservoir having a cavity configured to hold a quantity of water, a water reservoir dock structured and arranged to receive the water reservoir in an operating position, an air delivery tube configured to send a flow of breathable gas humidified in the water reservoir to a patient interface, and an intermediate component removably and non-rotatably coupled to the water reservoir dock. The intermediate component is configured to pneumatically connect the water reservoir to the air delivery tube. The intermediate component includes a one-piece structure of a relatively high-rigidity material. The one-piece structure includes an inlet end adapted to interface with the water reservoir and an outlet end adapted to interface with the air delivery tube. A dock connector included in the air delivery tube is structured and arranged to form a bayonet-type connection with the water reservoir dock so that the air delivery tube is mechanically and electrically connected to the water reservoir dock. The intermediate component includes a sound port configured to facilitate propagation of sound outside of the intermediate component and a port seal disposed around the sound port. The port seal is configured to provide a peripheral seal formation on an outer surface of the intermediate component and includes a sound-permeable membrane configured to cover the port.

[0074] Another aspect of the present technology relates to an apparatus for humidifying a flow of breathable gas. The apparatus includes a water reservoir having a cavity configured to hold a quantity of water, a water reservoir dock configured and arranged to receive the water reservoir in an operating position, an air delivery tube configured to send a flow of breathable gas humidified in the water reservoir to a patient interface, and an intermediate component removably and non-rotatably coupled to the water reservoir dock. The intermediate component is configured to pneumatically connect the air delivery tube to the water reservoir and the intermediate component is configured to mechanically connect the air delivery tube to the reservoir dock. The intermediate component includes a sound port configured to facilitate the propagation of sound outside of the intermediate component and a port seal disposed around the sound port. The port seal is configured to provide a peripheral seal formation on the outer surface of the intermediate component and includes a sound-permeable membrane configured to cover the port.

[0075] A magnetic coupler, which is one aspect of the present technology, flexibly couples a microphone to an air circuit to improve the sound quality and consistency in an acoustic component that identifies a respiratory therapy system. Since the magnetic coupler self-aligns, the consistency of the relative horizontal and vertical positions of the microphone and the air circuit is ensured. Since this coupler also functions as a completely sealed path, the escape of sound to the surroundings is minimized. Since the coupler is flexible, the vibration of the device is attenuated to some extent. Since the coupler can be a "bellows" type coupler, the flexibility in the vertical direction is increased. Optionally, for reducing the vibration transmission from the PCBA to the microphone, the microphone can be mounted on rubber feet on a tab on the PCBA that is partially surrounded by a cutout channel.

[0076] According to one aspect of the present technology, the disclosed coupler is configured to connect to a sensor and send sound from a port in the air circuit of an RPT device to the sensor. In some aspects of the present technology, the sensor can be coupled to a circuit board disposed above the port; the circuit board includes a channel that is at least partially cut out around a portion of the circuit board that supports the sensor, the coupler includes a bellows, and / or the coupler provides a magnetic connection to the air circuit.

[0077] Aspect of one form of the present technology relates to an apparatus for the treatment of respiratory diseases. The apparatus includes: a pressure generator configured to generate a flow of breathable gas; an air delivery tube configured to send the flow of breathable gas from the pressure generator to a patient interface; an intermediate component configured to pneumatically connect the air delivery tube to the pressure generator, the intermediate component including a port configured to facilitate the propagation of sound outside the intermediate component; a sensor disposed adjacent to the port of the intermediate component, the sensor being configured to sense sound propagating through the port; a flexible coupler connected to the sensor and configured to send sound from the port to the sensor; and a controller. The controller is configured to receive a sound signal generated by the sensor due to sound sensing during operation of the apparatus, analyze the received sound signal, and provide a response based at least in part on the analyzing.

[0078] In an example of the above aspect: (a) the response includes at least one of the following: recording the result of the analysis, displaying the result of the analysis, transferring the result of the analysis, and controlling the operation of the pressure generator based at least in part on the analysis; (b) the device includes a chassis including a chassis opening, a port within an intermediate component is disposed on a first side of the chassis opening, and the sensor is positioned on a second side of the chassis opening; (c) the device includes a circuit board disposed on the second side of the chassis opening, and the sensor is coupled to the circuit board; (d) the device includes a circuit board to which the sensor is coupled, and the coupler includes an outlet end configured to be directly coupled to the sensor and an inlet end configured to be removably coupled to the intermediate component; (e) at least a portion of the outlet ends is directly coupled to the circuit board; (f) the outlet end includes a plurality of rubber feet configured to connect the coupler to the circuit board; (g) the channel included in the circuit board is cut out through the circuit board and is provided at least partially around a portion of the circuit board coupled to the sensor for vibration isolation from the circuit board to the sensor; (h) the channel is provided at least partially around through a hole on the circuit board electrically connected to the sensor; (i) the channel forms a tab, and the tab is configured to deflect in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the circuit board; (j) the inlet end includes a first connecting element configured to be removably coupled to a second connecting element connected to the intermediate component; (k) the first connecting element includes a magnet and / or the second connecting element includes a magnet; (l) one of the first connecting element or the second connecting element includes a metal ring; (m) the first connecting element has a ring shape and / or the second connecting element has a ring shape; (n) the inner diameter of the first connecting element is the same as the inner diameter of the second connecting element; (o) the second connecting element is disposed under the surface of the intermediate component around the port; (p) further includes a membrane configured to cover the port and transmit sound from the inside of the intermediate component to the outside of the intermediate component; (q) the membrane is configured to cover an end of the coupler adjacent to the intermediate component;(r) The membrane is provided below the outer surface of the intermediate component. (s) The coupler includes an outlet end configured to connect to the sensor and an inlet end configured to connect to the intermediate component. The coupler includes one or more bellows disposed between the outlet end and the inlet end. (t) The one or more bellows are adapted to allow the inlet end to displace relative to the outlet end in the horizontal and / or vertical directions. (u) It further includes a circuit board to which the sensor is connected. The coupler is configured to directly engage the sensor without a direct connection to the circuit board. And / or (v) The air delivery tube is configured to send a flow of breathable gas from the pressure generator to the patient interface.

[0079] One aspect of the present technology relates to an apparatus for the treatment of respiratory diseases. The apparatus includes: a pressure generator configured to generate a flow of breathable gas; an air delivery tube configured to send a flow of breathable gas from the pressure generator to the patient interface; an intermediate component configured to pneumatically connect the air delivery tube to the pressure generator, the intermediate component including a port configured to facilitate the propagation of sound outside the intermediate component; a circuit board disposed adjacent to the port; a sensor assembly disposed between the circuit board and the port of the intermediate component, the sensor assembly including a sensor connected to the circuit board and a first connection element configured to removably connect to a second connection element at least partially disposed around the port within the intermediate component and configured to sense sound propagated outside the intermediate component; and a controller. The controller is configured to receive a sound signal generated by the sensor due to sound sensing during operation of the apparatus, analyze the received sound signal, and provide a response based at least in part on the analysis.

[0080] In an example of the above aspect: (a) the sensor is directly connected to the circuit board; (b) the sensor is disposed within a flexible housing, the flexible housing including a plurality of rubber feet configured to connect the flexible housing to the circuit board; (c) when an end of the sensor assembly adjacent to the port is misaligned from the port when the intermediate component is in the assembled position, the end of the sensor assembly adjacent to the port is configured to displace in the vertical and / or horizontal directions; (d) the first connection element is a magnetic ring, the second connection element is a magnetic ring or a metal ring, and is configured to removably connect the magnetic ring into the first connection element; (e) the channels included in the circuit board are cut out through the circuit board and are provided at least partially around a part of the circuit board connected to the sensor assembly for insulation of vibration from the circuit board to the sensor; (f) the channels are provided at least partially around through holes in the circuit board electrically connected to the sensor; (g) the channels form tabs including through holes, the tabs being configured to deflect in the vertical direction from the surface of the circuit board; (h) the second connection element is disposed below the surface of the intermediate component around the port; (i) further includes a film configured to cover the port on the inner surface or the outer surface of the intermediate component and transmit sound from the inside of the intermediate component to the outside of the intermediate component; and / or (j) the film is impermeable to liquids and / or gases.

[0081] Aspects of one form of the present technology relate to an apparatus for the treatment of respiratory diseases. The apparatus includes: a pressure generator configured to generate a flow of breathable gas, the pressure generator being pneumatically connected to an air delivery tube configured to send the flow of breathable gas from the pressure generator to a patient interface, the air delivery tube including a port configured to facilitate the propagation of sound outside the air delivery tube; a sensor configured to sense sound propagating through the port when the pressure generator is connected to the air delivery tube; a flexible coupler connected to the sensor and configured to send sound from the port to the sensor; and a controller. The controller is configured to receive a sound signal generated by the sensor due to sound sensing during operation of the apparatus, analyze the received sound signal, and provide a response based at least in part on the analyzing.

[0082] In an example of the above aspect: (a) the response includes at least one of the following: recording the result of the analysis, displaying the result of the analysis, transferring the result of the analysis, and controlling the operation of the pressure generator based at least in part on the analysis; (b) the device includes a chassis including a chassis opening, the port is disposed on a first side of the chassis opening, and the sensor is positioned on a second side of the chassis opening; (c) the device further includes a circuit board disposed on the second side of the chassis opening, and the sensor is coupled to the circuit board; (d) the device further includes a circuit board to which the sensor is coupled, and the coupler includes an outlet end configured to be directly coupled to the sensor and an inlet end configured to be removably coupled to the air delivery tube; (e) at least a portion of the outlet end is directly coupled to the circuit board; (f) the outlet end includes a plurality of rubber feet configured to connect the coupler to the circuit board; (g) the channel included in the circuit board is cut out through the circuit board and is at least partially provided around a portion of the circuit board coupled to the sensor for vibration insulation from the circuit board to the sensor; (h) the channel is at least partially provided around through a hole in the circuit board electrically connected to the sensor; (i) a tab is formed by the channel and the tab is configured to deflect in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the circuit board; (j) the inlet end includes a first connection element configured to be removably coupled to a second connection element connected to the air delivery tube; (k) the first connection element includes a magnet and / or the second connection element includes a magnet; (l) one of the first connection element or the second connection element includes a metal ring; (m) the first connection element has a ring shape and / or the second connection element has a ring shape; (n) the inner diameter of the first connection element is the same as the inner diameter of the second connection element; (o) the second connection element is disposed under the surface of the air delivery tube around the port; (p) the membrane further included in the device is configured to cover the port and transmit sound from the inside of the delivery tube to the outside of the delivery tube; (q) the membrane is configured to cover an end of the coupler adjacent to the delivery tube; (r) the membrane is provided under the outer surface of the delivery tube;(s) The coupler includes an outlet end configured to be coupled to the sensor and an inlet end configured to be coupled to the delivery tube, and the coupler includes one or more bellows disposed between the outlet end and the inlet end; (t) The one or more bellows are adapted to allow the inlet end to be displaced relative to the outlet end in the horizontal and / or vertical directions; (u) The apparatus further includes a circuit board to which the sensor is coupled, and the coupler is configured to directly engage the sensor without a direct connection to the circuit board; and / or (v) The apparatus further includes an air delivery tube.;

[0083] Aspect of one form of the present technology relates to an apparatus for the treatment of respiratory diseases. The apparatus includes: a pressure generator configured to generate a flow of breathable gas; an intermediate component pneumatically connected to the air delivery tube, the intermediate component including a port configured to facilitate the propagation of sound outside the intermediate component; a sensor attached to the intermediate component from the outside and disposed adjacent to the port of the intermediate component, the sensor being configured to sense sound propagating through the air delivery tube; and a controller configured to receive a sound signal generated by the sensor due to sound sensing during operation of the apparatus, analyze the received sound signal, and provide a response based at least in part on the analyzing.;

[0084] In an example of the above aspect: (a) the intermediate component is configured to pneumatically connect the air delivery tube to the pressure generator; (b) the response includes at least one of: recording the result of the analysis, displaying the result of the analysis, transferring the result of the analysis, and controlling the operation of the pressure generator based at least in part on the analysis; (c) the apparatus further includes a chassis including a chassis opening, a port within the intermediate component is disposed on a first side of the chassis opening, and the sensor is positioned on a second side of the chassis opening; (d) the apparatus further includes a circuit board disposed on the second side of the chassis opening, and the sensor is coupled to the circuit board; (e) the apparatus further includes a flexible coupler configured to send sound from the port to the sensor; (f) the apparatus further includes a circuit board to which the sensor is coupled, and the coupler includes an outlet end configured to directly engage the sensor and an inlet end configured to removably engage the intermediate component; (g) one end of the coupler removably engages (or at least contacts) the intermediate component and / or the other end engages (or at least contacts) the sensor; (h) at least a portion of the outlet end contacts the circuit board; (i) the outlet end includes an end cap; (j) the end cap includes one or more feet configured to contact the circuit board and / or one or more connection ports for connecting the sensor to the circuit board; (k) a channel included in the circuit board is cut out through the circuit board and is provided at least partially around a portion of the circuit board coupled to the sensor for vibration isolation from the circuit board to the sensor; (l) the channel is provided at least partially around through a hole in the circuit board electrically connected to the sensor; (m) a tab is formed by the channel and the tab is configured to deflect in a direction transverse to the surface of the circuit board; (n) the inlet end includes a first connection element configured to removably couple to a second connection element connected to the intermediate component; (o) the first connection element includes a magnet and / or the second connection element includes a magnet; (p) one of the first connection element or the second connection element includes a metal ring; (q) the first connection element has a ring shape and / or the second connection element has a ring shape;(r) The second connecting element is arranged below the surface of the intermediate component around the port; (s) The coupler includes one or more bellows arranged between the outlet end and the inlet end; (t) The one or more bellows are adapted to allow the inlet end to be displaced horizontally and / or vertically relative to the outlet end; (u) The coupler is configured to be in direct contact with the sensor without direct connection to the circuit board; (v) The device further includes an air delivery tube configured to send a flow of breathable gas from a pressure generator to a patient interface; (w) The device further includes a membrane configured to cover the port and transmit sound from the inside of the intermediate component to the outside of the intermediate component; (x) The membrane is provided below the outer surface of the intermediate component; (y) The device includes at least one of a membrane and a port seal, the membrane is configured to cover the port and transmit sound from the inside of the intermediate component to the outside of the intermediate component, and the port seal is arranged to provide a sealed engagement between the port and the chassis opening when the intermediate component is in an operating configuration; (z) The device is a water reservoir having a cavity structured to hold a certain amount of water, the water reservoir receiving a flow of breathable gas such that the flow of breathable gas is sent to the patient interface after being humidified; a water reservoir dock structured and arranged to receive the water reservoir in an operating position, the intermediate component being removably connected to the water reservoir dock such that the intermediate component receives the humidified flow of breathable gas and sends this flow to the air delivery tube; (aa) The intermediate component is generally tubular in shape, the water reservoir dock includes a generally tubular opening for receiving the intermediate component, and the intermediate component and the generally tubular opening are configured for generally frictionless insertion of the intermediate component into the opening;(ab)At least one engaging formation part included in at least one of the intermediate component and generally tubular opening is arranged such that upon insertion of the intermediate component into the opening, at least one engagement of the engaging formation parts causes the intermediate component to assume an operating configuration, and in the operating configuration, the sealing engagement between the port seal and the chassis opening and the support engagement provided by at least one engaging formation part are configured to prevent a situation where the intermediate component is forcibly displaced from the operating configuration in the absence of a significant external force; at least one of the following is provided; (ac) at least one engagement of the engaging formation parts occurs at a point after the insertion path; (ad) one or more of the engaging formation parts include a high position feature that causes upward movement of at least a portion of the intermediate component; (ae) the high position feature is provided on the bottom of the tubular opening, and after the intermediate component is inserted into the tubular opening by a predetermined distance, the intermediate component is pushed upward to reduce the clearance between the upper part of the tubular opening and the intermediate component; (af) at least one of the intermediate component and generally tubular opening each includes a plurality of engaging formation parts, and the engaging formation parts are arranged to engage generally simultaneously upon insertion of the intermediate component into the opening; (ag) the apparatus further includes a port seal configured to surround the port, and the peripheral sealing formation included in the port seal includes a ridge configured to abut against the surface of the chassis around the chassis opening when the intermediate component is connected to the water reservoir dock; (ah) the apparatus further includes a port seal configured to surround the port, and the peripheral sealing formation included in the port seal includes a lip configured to abut against the surface of the chassis around the chassis opening when the intermediate component is connected to the humidifier; (ai) the lip extends obliquely from around the port upward to the central axis of the port; (aj) the port seal covers the inner surface of the port and includes a membrane; (ak) the membrane is in the same plane as at least the inner or outer surface of the intermediate component; (al) the membrane is impermeable to liquid and / or gas; (am) the controller is configured to determine based on analyzing the characteristics of the air delivery tube or the patient interface;(an) The controller is further configured to determine based on analyzing the type or size of the air delivery tube, or the type or size of the patient interface connected to the air delivery tube; (ao) The intermediate component includes an outlet end configured to connect the air delivery tube to the intermediate component and an inlet end configured to connect the water reservoir to the intermediate component, the air path between the inlet end and the outlet end is non-linear, includes at least one turn, and the turn closest to at least the port is curved; (ap) The central axis of the inlet end is substantially transverse to the central axis of the outlet end, defining a corresponding transverse air path, outer and inner corners, and each corner includes an inner surface with a rounded shape; (aq) The transverse air path is provided between the inlet end crosses adjacent to the inlet end, and the inlet end includes an inlet seal adapted to interface with the water reservoir; (ar) The inner corner includes a bellows including a span between opposite sides of the bellows, the span is less than or equal to twice the radius of the inner corner, and / or the inner surface of the inner corner includes a radius of curvature of 0.2 to 5 mm; (as) The intermediate component is configured to pneumatically connect the air delivery tube to the water reservoir and mechanically connect the air delivery tube to the water reservoir dock; (at) The air delivery tube is configured to simultaneously form a mechanical connection and an electrical connection when the air delivery tube is connected to the intermediate component; (au) The device further includes a transducer configured to generate a flow signal indicative of the characteristics of the air flow, and the controller is configured to control the operation of the pressure generator, receive, during the operation of the pressure generator, the flow signal from the transducer and the sound signal sensed by the sensor; analyze the received sound signal; and analyze and modify the operation of the pressure generator based at least in part on the flow signal; (av) A chassis including a chassis opening extending through the chassis, wherein the port within the intermediate component is disposed adjacent to a first end of the chassis opening, the chassis; and a circuit board disposed adjacent to a second end of the chassis opening, the sensor is positioned on the circuit board and aligned with the chassis opening, further including the circuit board; (aw) The second end of the chassis opening includes an opening larger than the opening of the first end;(ax) The second end of the chassis opening is provided by a side wall extending from the surface of the chassis facing the circuit board; (ay) the sensor is at least partially positioned inside the chassis opening and / or the side wall; (az) further includes a seal disposed between the chassis and the circuit board and adjacent to the second end of the chassis opening; (aaa) the peripheral seal forming portion included in the seal includes a lip or ridge configured to abut the surface of the circuit board adjacent to the sensor; the peripheral seal forming portion can extend from the surface of the seal facing the circuit board and surrounding the second end of the chassis opening; (aab) further includes a generally tubular opening in the chassis of the device for receiving a generally tubular intermediate component, the intermediate component having an inlet end adapted to be inserted into the opening, an outlet end adapted to interface with an air delivery tube, a flange disposed between the inlet end and the outlet end, and one or more flexible bumpers provided adjacent to a side of the flange facing the inlet end (for the purpose of cushioning contact with the wall of the generally tubular opening during insertion and for vibration absorption during use); (aac) the intermediate component further includes a barbed tab at one end of the intermediate component on the side opposite the outlet end, the barbed tab being structured to provide a snap-fit connection with a locking member of the chassis, and the one or more bumpers being pressed against a part of the chassis by the flange during the snap-fit connection to press the barbed tab against the locking member, thereby preventing disengagement of the barbed tab from the locking member in the absence of a significant external force; (aad) during initial insertion of the intermediate component into the generally tubular opening, the resistance between the intermediate component and the generally tubular opening is minimized, and the resistance increases at a later stage of insertion at the location where one or more engagement features of the intermediate component engage with each engagement feature within the generally tubular opening of the chassis, and by the engagement between each engagement feature of the intermediate component and the chassis opening, the intermediate component is oriented into an operative engagement configuration with the opening;(aae) A port seal arranged to provide a sealed engagement between a port and a chassis opening at an operating position, and after a later stage of the insertion of a generally tubular opening of an intermediate component therein (e.g., when the intermediate component is in the operating position), the intermediate component is positioned so as to ensure a sealed engagement between the port seal and the surface of the chassis around the chassis opening by the interaction between each engagement feature of the intermediate component and the chassis opening; further including a port seal; (aaf) further including a water reservoir having a cavity structured to hold a certain amount of water, the water reservoir receiving a flow of breathable gas such that the flow of breathable gas is humidified and then sent to a patient interface; and a water reservoir dock structured and arranged to receive the water reservoir at an operating position, an inlet end of the intermediate component being removably coupled to the water reservoir dock such that the inlet end receives a humidified flow of breathable gas and sends this flow to an air delivery tube, the inlet end including an inlet seal, and at the operating position, by the port seal, the port and; A sealed engagement with the chassis opening is obtained, and an inlet seal provides a sealed engagement between the inlet end and the water reservoir dock; (aag) The intermediate component further includes guide ribs on the outer surface of the intermediate component and / or guide rails on the outer surface of the intermediate component, and the guide ribs and guide rails are structured and arranged to assist in aligning and inserting the intermediate component into the generally tubular opening in the chassis by engaging corresponding guide slots extending into the generally tubular opening in the chassis; (aah) The guide ribs are provided on the front and upper sides of the intermediate component, and the guide rails are provided on the lower side of the intermediate component; (aai) The chassis includes a generally tubular opening for receiving the generally tubular intermediate component, and the intermediate component includes an inlet end adapted to be inserted into the opening and an outlet end adapted to interface with the air delivery tube. The clearance between the port seal and the chassis adjacent to the chassis opening is provided when the intermediate component is inserted into the opening. After the edge of the port passes through the central axis or edge of the chassis opening during insertion of the intermediate component into the opening of the intermediate component, the port seal begins to engage with the chassis; (aaj) After the port seal begins to engage with the chassis, the intermediate component is further inserted by a predetermined distance to place the intermediate component in an operating configuration; (aak) Further includes a flexible housing overmolded on the sensor that is displaced from the circuit board and at least partially passes through the chassis opening; and / or, (aal) The pressure generator, intermediate component, controller, and sensor are commonly housed by the housing of the device.

[0085] Aspects of one form of the present technology relate to an apparatus for the treatment of respiratory diseases. The apparatus includes: a pressure generator configured to generate a flow of breathable gas; an air delivery tube configured to connect to the pressure generator, the air delivery tube including a port configured to facilitate the propagation of sound outside the air delivery tube; a sensor disposed outside the air delivery tube, the sensor adjacent to the port of the air delivery tube, the sensor configured to sense sound propagating through the port; and a controller configured to receive a sound signal generated by the sensor due to sound sensing during operation of the apparatus, analyze the received sound signal, and provide a response based at least in part on the analyzing.

[0086] In an example of the above aspect: (a) the response includes at least one of the following: recording the result of the analysis, displaying the result of the analysis, transferring the result of the analysis, and controlling the operation of the pressure generator based at least in part on the analysis; (b) the apparatus further includes a chassis including a chassis opening, the port is disposed on a first side of the chassis opening, and the sensor is positioned on a second side of the chassis opening; (c) the apparatus further includes a circuit board disposed on the second side of the chassis opening, and the sensor is coupled to the circuit board; (d) the apparatus further includes a flexible coupler configured to send sound from the port to the sensor; (e) the apparatus further includes a circuit board to which the sensor is coupled, and the coupler includes an outlet end configured to directly engage the sensor and an inlet end configured to removably engage an air delivery tube; (f) one end of the coupler is removably coupled to the air delivery tube and / or the other end is coupled to the sensor; (f) at least a portion of the outlet end contacts the circuit board; (g) the outlet end includes an end cap; (g) the end cap includes one or more feet configured to contact the circuit board and / or one or more connection ports for connecting the sensor to the circuit board; (h) the channel included in the circuit board is cut out through the circuit board and is at least partially provided around a portion of the circuit board coupled to the sensor for vibration isolation from the circuit board to the sensor; (i) the channel is at least partially provided around through a hole on the circuit board electrically connected to the sensor; (j) a tab is formed by the channel and the tab is configured to deflect in a direction transverse to the surface of the circuit board; (k) the inlet end includes a first connection element configured to removably couple to a second connection element connected to the air delivery tube; (l) the first connection element includes a magnet and / or the second connection element includes a magnet; (m) one of the first connection element or the second connection element includes a metal ring; (n) the first connection element has a ring shape and / or the second connection element has a ring shape; (o) the second connection element is disposed under the surface of the air delivery tube around the port; (p) the coupler includes one or more bellows disposed between the outlet end and the inlet end;(q)One or more bellows are adapted to allow the inlet end to be displaced horizontally and / or vertically relative to the outlet end; (r) the coupler is configured to contact the sensor without direct connection to the circuit board; (s) the device further includes an air delivery tube configured to send a flow of breathable gas from a pressure generator to a patient interface; (t) the device further includes a membrane configured to cover the port and transmit sound from the inside of the air delivery tube to the outside of the air delivery tube; (u) the membrane is provided on the lower side of the outer surface of the air delivery tube; (v) the device includes at least one of the membrane and the port seal, the membrane is configured to cover the port and transmit sound from the inside of the air delivery tube to the outside of the air delivery tube, and the port seal is arranged to provide a sealed engagement between the port and the chassis opening; (w) the device further includes: a water reservoir including a cavity structured to hold a certain amount of water, the water reservoir receiving a flow of breathable gas such that the flow of breathable gas is humidified before being sent to the patient interface; and a water reservoir dock structured and arranged to receive the water reservoir in an operating position. The air delivery tube is removably connected to the water reservoir dock such that a humidified flow of breathable gas is received and sent through the air delivery tube; (y) at least one engagement formation included in the air delivery tube is arranged such that, upon insertion into the opening of the air delivery tube, at least one engagement of the engagement formations causes the air delivery tube to be in an operating configuration in the vicinity of the end of the insertion path, in which operating configuration both the port and the chassis opening are sealed by the port seal, and at least one of the sealed engagement of the port seal with the port and the chassis opening and the support engagement provided by at least one engagement formation is configured to prevent a situation where the air delivery tube is forced to move from the operating configuration in the absence of a significant external force; (z) one or more of the engagement formations include high position features;(aa) The device further includes a port seal configured to surround the port, and the peripheral seal formation included in the port seal includes a ridge configured to abut against the surface of the chassis around the chassis opening when the air delivery tube is connected to the water reservoir dock; (ab) The device further includes a port seal configured to surround the port, and the peripheral seal formation included in the port seal includes a lip configured to abut against the surface of the chassis around the chassis opening when the air delivery tube is connected to the humidifier; (ac) The lip extends obliquely from around the port upward to the central axis of the port; (ad) The port seal covers the inner surface of the port and includes a membrane; (ae) The membrane is at least coplanar with the inner or outer surface of the air delivery tube; (af) The membrane is impermeable to liquids and / or gases; (ag) The controller is configured to determine based on analyzing the characteristics of the air delivery tube or the patient interface; (ah) The controller is further configured to determine based on analyzing the type or size of the air delivery tube, or the type or size of the patient interface connected to the air delivery tube; and / or (ai) The device further includes a transducer configured to generate a flow signal indicative of the characteristics of the air flow, and the controller is configured to control the operation of the pressure generator; receive the flow signal from the transducer and the sound signal sensed by the sensor during the operation of the pressure generator; analyze the received sound signal; and change the operation of the pressure generator based at least in part on the analysis and the flow signal.;

[0087] The described methods, systems, devices, and apparatuses can be embodied to improve the functions in a processor (e.g., the functions of a processor of a special-purpose computer, a respiratory monitor, and / or a respiratory treatment device). Further, the described methods, systems, devices, and apparatuses enable improvements in the technical field of the automatic management, monitoring, and / or treatment of respiratory diseases (e.g., sleep apnea).

[0088] Of course, some of the above aspects may form sub - aspects of the present technology. Also, various combinations of various ones of the sub - aspects and / or aspects can be made, which may also constitute further aspects or sub - aspects of the present technology.

[0089] Other features of the present technology will become apparent in view of the information contained in the following detailed description, summary, drawings, and claims.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0090] 4 Brief Description of the Drawings The present technology is illustrated by way of non - limiting example in the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, like reference numerals include the following like elements: 4.1 Treatment System

[0091]

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DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0092] 5 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF AN EXAMPLE OF THE PRESENT TECHNOLOGY Before further describing the present technology in detail, it should be understood that the present technology is not limited to the different specific examples described herein. It should also be understood that the terms used in the present disclosure are for the purpose of describing the specific examples described herein and are not limiting.

[0093] The following description is provided in relation to various examples that may share one or more common characteristics and / or features. It should be understood that one or more features of any one example can be combined with one or more features of another example or other examples. Additionally, any single feature or combination of features in any of these examples can constitute a further example.

[0094] 5.1 Treatment In one form, the technology includes a method for treating a respiratory disorder. The method includes the step of applying a positive pressure to the entrance of the airway of a patient 1000.

[0095] In certain examples of the technology, an air supply at positive pressure is provided to the nasal passage of the patient through one or both of the nostrils.

[0096] In certain examples of the technology, mouth breathing is restricted, limited, or prevented.

[0097] 5.2 Treatment System In one form, the technology includes an apparatus or device for the treatment of a respiratory disorder. The apparatus or device can include an RPT device 4000 that supplies pressurized air to a patient 1000 via an air circuit 4170 to a patient interface 3000 (see, for example, FIGS. 1A - 1C).

[0098] 5.3 Patient Interface Figure 3A shows a non-invasive patient interface 3000 according to one aspect of the present technology, including the following functional aspects: a seal-forming structure 3100, a plenum chamber 3200, a positioning and stabilization structure 3300, a ventilation portion 3400, a form of connection port 3600 for connection to an air circuit 4170, and a forehead support portion 3700. In some forms, the functional aspects can be provided by one or more physical components. In some forms, one physical component can provide one or more functional aspects. In use, the seal-forming structure 3100 is arranged to surround the patient's airway inlet so as to facilitate the supply of air at positive pressure to the airway.

[0099] If the patient interface cannot comfortably deliver the lowest level of positive pressure to the airway, the patient interface may be inappropriate for respiratory pressure therapy.

[0100] A patient interface 3000 according to one form of the present technology is constructed and arranged to provide an air supply at a positive pressure of at least 6 cmH2O relative to the ambient.

[0101] A patient interface 3000 according to one form of the present technology is constructed and arranged to provide an air supply at a positive pressure of at least 10 cmH2O relative to the ambient.

[0102] A patient interface 3000 according to one form of the present technology is constructed and arranged to provide an air supply at a positive pressure of at least 20 cmH2O relative to the ambient.

[0103] 5.4 RPT Device An exploded view of an RPT device 4000 according to one form of the present technology is shown in Figure 5A. The RPT device 4000 can include mechanical components, pneumatic components, and / or electrical components and is configured to execute one or more algorithms. The RPT device 4000 can be configured to generate an air flow to be delivered to the patient's airway, for example, for the treatment of one or more of the respiratory diseases described anywhere in this document.

[0104] In one form, the RPT device 4000 is constructed and arranged to deliver an air flow in the range of -20 L / min to +150 L / min while maintaining a positive pressure of at least 6 cmH2O or at least 10 cmH2O or at least 20 cmH2O.

[0105] The RPT device 4000 may include an external housing having one or more panels (e.g., a main panel (e.g., the external housing 4010), a front panel 4012, and a side panel 4014). The RPT device 4000 may also include an outlet cap 4124 having a muffler, as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B. The outlet cap 4124 having a muffler may be removable and may be exchanged with a water reservoir 5110 (see FIG. 5C). In such a form, the RPT device 4000 may be considered to include an integrated humidifier 5000. Thus, the RPT device 4000 may be used with or without humidification depending on whether the water reservoir 5110 or the outlet cap 4124 having a muffler is respectively attached. The structure and operation of the muffler 4124 are similar to the end cap muffler described in 2015 / 089582. The entire disclosure of this document is incorporated herein by reference. Preferably, the RPT device 4000 includes a chassis 4016 that supports one or more internal components of the RPT device 4000. In one form, the RPT device 4000 includes a pressure generator 4140, which may be received within a pneumatic block 4020 coupled to the chassis 4016.

[0106] Further examples and details of exemplary RPT devices are described in PCT Publication No. WO2015 / 089582.

[0107] The pneumatic path of the RPT device 4000 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 5D) may include an inlet air filter 4112, an inlet muffler 4122, a pressure generator 4140 (preferably a blower 4142) capable of supplying air at positive pressure, and an outlet muffler 4124 (or a water reservoir 5110 if humidification is required). One or more sensors or transducers 4270 (e.g., pressure sensors and flow sensors) may be provided within the pneumatic path. The pneumatic path may also include an anti-spillback valve 4160 to prevent water from flowing back from the humidifier 5000 to the electrical components of the RPT device 4000.

[0108] As shown in FIG. 5E, the RPT device 4000 can have an electrical power supply 4210, one or more input devices 4220, a central controller 4230, a treatment device controller 4240, one or more protection circuits 4250, a memory 4260, sensors / transducers 4270, a data communication interface 4280, and one or more output devices 4290. The electrical components 4200 can be mounted on a single printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) 4202 (see, e.g., FIG. 5A). In an alternative form, the RPT device 4000 can include more than one PCBA 4202.

[0109] 5.4.1 RPT Device Mechanical and Pneumatic Components The RPT device may include one or more of the following components in an integrated unit. In an alternative form, one or more of the following components may be arranged as separate individual units.

[0110] 5.4.1.1 Air Filter(s) An RPT device according to one form of the present technology may include an air filter 4110 or a plurality of air filters 4110.

[0111] In one form, the inlet air filter 4112 is disposed at the beginning of the upstream of the pneumatic path of the pressure generator 4140.

[0112] In one form, the outlet air filter 4114 (e.g., an antibacterial factor) is disposed between the outlet of the pneumatic block 4020 and the patient interface 3000.

[0113] 5.4.1.2 Muffler(s) An RPT device according to one form of the present technology may include a muffler 4120 or a plurality of mufflers 4120.

[0114] In one form of the present technology, the inlet muffler 4122 is disposed upstream of the pressure generator 4140 within the pneumatic path.

[0115] In one form of the present technology, the outlet muffler 4124 is disposed between the pressure generator 4140 and the patient interface 3000 within the pneumatic path.

[0116] 5.4.1.3 Pressure Generator In one form of the present technology, the pressure generator 4140 that generates the flow or supply of air at positive pressure is a controllable blower 4142. For example, the blower 4142 may include a brushless DC motor 4144 with one or more impellers. The impeller may be disposed within a volute. The blower can deliver the air supply at a speed of, for example, up to about 120 liters per minute, at a positive pressure in the range of about 4 cmH2O to about 20 cmH2O, or in other forms up to about 30 cmH2O. The blower may be described in any one of the following patents or patent applications, which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety herein: U.S. Patent No. 7,866,944, U.S. Patent No. 8,638,014, U.S. Patent No. 8,636,479, and PCT Patent Application Publication WO2013 / 020167.

[0117] The pressure generator 4140 is under the control of the treatment device controller 4240.

[0118] In other forms, the pressure generator 4140 may be a piston-driven pump, a pressure regulator connected to a high-pressure source (e.g., a compressed air reservoir), or a bellows.

[0119] 5.4.1.4 Converter(s) The converter may be provided inside the RPT device or outside the RPT device. The external converter may be arranged, for example, on an air circuit or may form part of an air circuit (e.g., the patient interface). The external converter may take the form of a non-contact sensor (e.g., a Doppler radar motion sensor that sends or transfers data to the RPT device).

[0120] In one form of the technology, one or more converters 4270 may be arranged upstream and / or downstream of the pressure generator 4140. One or more converters 4270 may be constructed and arranged to generate a signal indicative of the characteristics of sound and / or air flow in the RPT device (e.g., flow rate, pressure or temperature at that point in the air pressure path).

[0121] In one form of the technology, one or more converters 4270 may be arranged in the vicinity of the patient interface 3000.

[0122] In one form of the technology, one or more converters 4270 may be arranged within the RPT device.

[0123] In one form, the signal from the converter 4270 may be filtered (e.g., by low-pass, high-pass or band-pass filtering).

[0124] 5.4.1.4.1 Flow Rate Sensor The flow rate sensor 4274 according to the technology may be based on a differential pressure transducer (e.g., the SDP600 series differential pressure transducer from SENSIRION).

[0125] In one form, the signal indicative of the flow rate from the flow rate sensor 4274 is received by the central controller 4230.

[0126] 5.4.1.4.2 Pressure Sensor The pressure sensor 4272 according to the present technology can be arranged in fluid communication with the pneumatic path. As an example of a suitable pressure sensor, there is a transducer from the HONEYWELL ASDX series. Another suitable pressure sensor is a transducer from the NPA series from GENERAL ELECTRIC.

[0127] In one form, the signal from the pressure sensor 4272 is received by the central controller 4230.

[0128] 5.4.1.4.3 Motor speed transducer In one form of the present technology, a motor speed transducer 4276 can be used to determine the rotational speed of the motor 4144 and / or the blower 4142. The motor speed signal from the motor speed transducer 4276 can be provided to the therapy device controller 4240. The motor speed transducer 4276 can be, for example, a speed sensor (e.g., a Hall effect sensor).

[0129] 5.4.1.4.4 Ambient light sensor 4278 Since the RPT device 4000 is often used in a bedroom environment (e.g., immediately before or during sleep of the patient 1000), it may be important to always ensure that any light-emitting features of the RPT device 4000 do not become overly bright.

[0130] In one form of the present technology, an ambient light sensor 4278 is used to determine the light level within the ambient area around the RPT device 4000. The ambient light signal from the ambient light sensor 4278 can be provided as an input to the central controller 4230 for, for example, adjusting the brightness of a display or any other arbitrary light-emitting feature (e.g., the backlight of the input device 4220 or any notification light).

[0131] The display 4294 can be configured to operate at one of a plurality of predetermined brightness settings. The selection of the brightness setting can be made according to the signal output of the ambient light sensor 4278.

[0132] 5.4.1.4.5 Sound Sensor In one form of the technology, the transducer 4270 may include a sound sensor. This sound sensor may be a microphone and is configured to generate a signal indicative of sound in the RPT device. The sound sensor may be configured to convert sound in the audible range and / or in the non-audible range for the patient into an electrical signal. The sound sensor may generate an analog or digital signal.

[0133] 5.4.1.5 Anti-Spillback Valve In one form of the technology, an anti-spillback valve 4160 may be disposed between the humidifier 5000 and the pneumatic block 4020. The anti-spillback valve is constructed and arranged to reduce the risk of water flowing upstream from the humidifier 5000 (e.g., to the motor 4144).

[0134] 5.4.2 RPT Device Electrical Components 5.4.2.1 Power Supply The power supply 4210 may be disposed inside or outside the external housing 4010 of the RPT device 4000.

[0135] In one form of the technology, the power supply 4210 supplies power only to the RPT device 4000. In another form of the technology, power is provided from the power supply 4210 to both the RPT device 4000 and the humidifier 5000.

[0136] 5.4.2.2 Input Device In one form of the technology, the RPT device 4000 includes one or more input devices 4220 in the form of buttons, switches or dials that enable a human to interact with the device. The buttons, switches or dials may be physical or software devices that can be accessed via a touch screen. The buttons, switches or dials may be physically connected to the external housing 4010 in one form, or may wirelessly communicate with a receiver electrically connected to the central controller 4230 in another form.

[0137] In one form, the input device 4220 can be constructed and arranged to enable a human to select values and / or menu options.

[0138] 5.4.2.3 Central Controller In one form of the technology, the central controller 4230 is one or more processors suitable for controlling the RPT device 4000.

[0139] Suitable processors can include processors based on the ARM® Cortex®-M processor from ARM Holdings, x86 INTEL processors (e.g., STM32 series microcontrollers from ST MICROELECTRONIC). In certain alternative forms of the technology, a 32-bit RISC CPU (e.g., STR9 series microcontrollers from ST MICROELECTRONICS) or a 16-bit RISC CPU (e.g., processors from the MSP430 family of microcontrollers manufactured by TEXAS INSTRUMENTS) can also be suitable.

[0140] In one form of the technology, the central controller 4230 is a dedicated electronic circuit.

[0141] In one form, the central controller 4230 is an application specific integrated circuit. In another form, the central controller 4230 includes discrete electronic components.

[0142] The central controller 4230 can be configured to receive input signal(s) from one or more transducers 4270, one or more input devices 4220, and the humidifier 5000.

[0143] The central controller 4230 can be configured to provide output signal(s) to one or more of the output device 4290, the treatment device controller 4240, the data communication interface 4280, and the humidifier 5000.

[0144] In some forms of the present technology, the central controller 4230 is configured to implement one or more methods described herein (e.g., one or more algorithms 4300 expressed as a computer program stored in a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium (e.g., memory 4260)). In some forms of the present technology, the central controller 4230 may be integrated with the RPT device 4000. However, in some forms of the present technology, some methods may be performed by remotely located devices. For example, a remotely located device may determine control settings for a ventilator or detect respiratory-related events by analyzing recorded data (e.g., from any of the sensors described herein).

[0145] 5.4.2.4 Clock The RPT device 4000 may include a clock 4232 connected to the central controller 4230.

[0146] 5.4.2.5 Treatment Device Controller In one form of the present technology, the treatment device controller 4240 is the treatment control module 4330 and forms part of the algorithm 4300 executed by the central controller 4230.

[0147] In one form of the present technology, the treatment device controller 4240 is a dedicated motor control integrated circuit. For example, in one form, an MC33035 brushless DC motor controller manufactured by ONSEMI is used.

[0148] 5.4.2.6 Protection Circuit One or more protection circuits 4250 according to the present technology may include an electrical protection circuit, a temperature and / or pressure safety circuit.

[0149] 5.4.2.7 Memory According to one aspect of the present technology, the RPT device 4000 includes a memory 4260 (e.g., non-volatile memory). In some aspects, the memory 4260 may include a battery-backed static RAM. In some aspects, the memory 4260 may include a volatile RAM.

[0150] The memory 4260 may be disposed on the PCBA 4202. The memory 4260 may take the form of an EEPROM or a NAND flash.

[0151] Additionally or alternatively, the RPT device 4000 includes a removable memory 4260 (e.g., a memory card manufactured according to the Secure Digital (SD) standard).

[0152] In one aspect of the present technology, the memory 4260 functions as a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. Computer program instructions (e.g., one or more algorithms 4300) representing one or more of the methods described herein are recorded on this recording medium.

[0153] 5.4.2.8 Data Communication System In one aspect of the present technology, a data communication interface 4280 is provided and connected to the central controller 4230. The data communication interface 4280 may be connectable to a remote external communication network 4282 and / or a local external communication network 4284. The remote external communication network 4282 may be connectable to a remote external device 4286. The local external communication network 4284 may be connectable to a local external device 4288.

[0154] In one aspect, the data communication interface 4280 is part of the central controller 4230. In another aspect, the data communication interface 4280 is separate from the central controller 4230 and may include an integrated circuit or a processor.

[0155] In one form, the remote external communication network 4282 is the Internet. The data communication interface 4280 can use wired communication (e.g., via Ethernet or fiber optic) or a wireless protocol (e.g., CDMA, GSM, LTE) to connect to the Internet.

[0156] In one form, the local external communication network 4284 uses one or more communication standards (e.g., Bluetooth® or consumer infrared protocol).

[0157] In one form, the remote external device 4286 is one or more computers (e.g., a cluster of networked computers). In one form, the remote external device 4286 can be a virtual computer rather than a physical computer. In either case, such a remote external device 4286 can be accessible by appropriately authorized persons (e.g., clinicians).

[0158] The local external device 4288 can be a personal computer, a mobile phone, a tablet, or a remote control.

[0159] 5.4.2.9 Optional Displays, Output Devices Including Warnings The output device 4290 according to this technology can take one or more forms of visual, audio, and tactile units. The visual display can be a liquid crystal display (LCD) or a light emitting diode (LED) display.

[0160] 5.4.2.9.1 Display Driver The display driver 4292 receives as input the characters, symbols, or images to be displayed on the display 4294 and converts them into commands to display these characters, symbols, or images on the display 4294.

[0161] 5.4.2.9.2 Display The display 4294 is configured to visually display characters, symbols, or images in response to commands received from the display driver 4292. For example, the display 4294 can be an 8-segment display, in which case the display driver 4292 converts each character or symbol (e.g., the digit "0") into eight logic signals indicating whether each of the eight segments should be activated to display the particular character or symbol.

[0162] 5.4.3 RPT Device Algorithm As described above, in some forms of the present technology, the central controller 4230 can be configured to embody one or more algorithms 4300 expressed as a computer program recorded in a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium (e.g., the memory 4260). These algorithms 4300 are generally grouped into groups called modules (see, for example, FIG. 5F).

[0163] 5.4.3.1 Pretreatment Module The pretreatment module 4310 according to one form of the present technology receives as input a signal from a transducer 4270 (e.g., the flow sensor 4274 or the pressure sensor 4272) 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).

[0164] In one form of the present technology, the output values include the interface or mask pressure Pm, the respiratory flow Qr, and the leakage flow Ql.

[0165] In various forms of the present technology, the pretreatment module 4310 includes one or more of the following algorithms: pressure compensation 4312, ventilation flow estimation 4314, leakage flow estimation 4316, and respiratory flow estimation 4318.

[0166] 5.4.3.1.1 Pressure Compensation In one embodiment of the present technology, the pressure compensation algorithm 4312 receives, as an input, a signal indicating the pressure in the pneumatic path proximal to the outlet of the pneumatic block. The pressure compensation algorithm 4312 estimates the pressure drop through the air circuit 4170 and provides, as an output, an estimated pressure Pm in the patient interface 3000.

[0167] 5.4.3.1.2 Estimation of ventilation flow rate In one embodiment of the present technology, the ventilation flow rate estimation algorithm 4314 receives, as an input, the estimated pressure Pm in the patient interface 3000 and estimates the ventilation flow rate Qv of air from the ventilation section 3400 in the patient interface 3000.

[0168] 5.4.3.1.3 Estimation of leakage flow rate In one embodiment of the present technology, the leakage flow rate estimation algorithm 4316 receives, as inputs, the total flow rate Qt and the ventilation flow rate Qv and provides, as an output, an estimation of the leakage flow rate Ql. In one embodiment, the leakage flow rate estimation algorithm estimates the leakage flow rate Ql by calculating the difference average between the total flow rate Qt and the ventilation flow rate Qv over a period long enough to include several respiratory cycles (e.g., about 10 seconds).

[0169] In one embodiment, the leakage flow rate estimation algorithm 4316 receives, as inputs, the total flow rate Qt, the ventilation flow rate Qv, and the estimated pressure Pm in the patient interface 3000, by calculating the leakage conductance and determining the leakage flow rate Ql to be a function of the leakage conductance and the pressure Pm. The leakage conductance is calculated as the quotient of the low-pass filtered non-ventilation flow rate equal to the difference between the total flow rate Qt and the ventilation flow rate Qv and the square root of the low-pass filtered pressure Pm, and the low-pass filter time constant has a sufficient value to include several respiratory cycles (e.g., about 10 seconds). The leakage flow rate Ql can be estimated as a function of the product of the leakage conductance and the pressure Pm.

[0170] 5.4.3.1.4 Estimation of respiratory flow rate In one aspect of the present technology, the respiratory flow rate estimation algorithm 4318 receives the total flow rate Qt, the ventilation flow rate Qv, and the leakage flow rate Ql as inputs, and estimates the air respiratory flow rate Qr to the patient by subtracting the ventilation flow rate Qv and the leakage flow rate Ql from the total flow rate Qt.

[0171] 5.4.3.2 Treatment Engine Module In one aspect of the present technology, the treatment engine module 4320 receives one or more of the pressure Pm in the patient interface 3000 and the air respiratory flow rate Qr to the patient as inputs, and provides one or more treatment parameters as outputs.

[0172] In one aspect of the present technology, the treatment parameter is the treatment pressure Pt.

[0173] In one aspect of the present technology, the treatment parameter is one or more of the amplitude of the pressure change, the base pressure, and the target ventilation.

[0174] In various aspects, the treatment engine module 4320 includes one or more of the following algorithms: phase determination 4321, waveform determination 4322, ventilation determination 4323, inspiratory flow rate limit determination 4324, apnea / hypopnea determination 4325, snore determination 4326, airway patency determination 4327, target ventilation determination 4328, and treatment parameter determination 4329.

[0175] 5.4.3.2.1 Phase Determination In one aspect of the present technology, the RPT device 4000 does not determine the phase. In one aspect of the present technology, the phase determination algorithm 4321 receives a signal indicating the respiratory flow rate Qr as an input, and provides the phase of the current respiratory cycle of the patient 1000 as the output Φ.

[0176] In some forms, the phase output Φ, known as discrete phase determination, is a discrete variable. In one implementation of discrete phase determination, a binary phase output Φ with values for inhalation or exhalation is obtained. This value is represented as, for example, 0 revolutions and 0.5 revolutions respectively when the start of spontaneous inhalation and exhalation is detected. The "trigger" and "cycle" RPT device 4000 effectively performs discrete phase determination. This is because the trigger point and the cycle point are the instants when the phase changes from exhalation to inhalation and from inhalation to exhalation respectively. In one implementation of binary phase determination, the phase output Φ has a discrete value of 0 when the respiratory flow rate Qr has a value exceeding a positive threshold (thereby "triggering" the RPT device 4000), and has a discrete value of 0.5 revolutions when the value of the respiratory flow rate Qr is a negative value greater than a negative threshold (thereby "cycling" the RPT device 4000). The inhalation time Ti and the exhalation time Te can be typical values estimated over many respiratory cycles of the time spent with the phase Φ equal to 0 (indicating inhalation) and 0.5 (indicating exhalation) respectively.

[0177] In another implementation of discrete phase determination, a three - valued phase output Φ with one value among inhalation, a pause during inhalation, and exhalation is obtained.

[0178] In other forms, the phase output Φ, known as continuous phase determination, is a continuous variable and varies, for example, between 0 revolutions and 1 revolution or between 0 and 2π radians. The RPT device 4000 performing continuous phase determination can trigger and cycle when the continuous phase reaches 0 revolutions and 0.5 revolutions respectively. In one implementation of continuous phase determination, the continuous value Φ of the phase is determined using fuzzy logic analysis of the respiratory flow rate Qr. The continuous value of the phase determined in this implementation is often called the "fuzzy phase". In one implementation of the fuzzy phase determination algorithm 4321, the following rules are applied to the respiratory flow rate Qr: 1. When the respiratory flow rate increases rapidly after reaching zero, the phase is 0 rotations. 2. When the respiratory flow rate is a large positive value and stable, the phase is 0.25 rotations. 3. When the respiratory flow rate is zero and decreases rapidly, the phase is 0.5 rotations. 4. When the respiratory flow rate is a large negative value and stable, the phase is 0.75 rotations. 5. When the respiratory flow rate is zero and stable, and the absolute value of the 5-second low-pass filtered respiratory flow rate is large, the phase is 0.9 rotations. 6. When the respiratory flow rate is positive and the phase is exhalation, the phase is 0 rotations. 7. When the respiratory flow rate is negative, the phase is inhalation, and the phase is 0.5 rotations. 8. When the absolute value of the 5-second low-pass filtered respiratory flow rate is large, the phase increases at a constant rate equal to the patient's respiratory rate low-pass filtered by a time constant of 20 seconds.

[0179] The output of each rule can be represented as a vector where the phase is the result of the rule and the magnitude is within the fuzzy range for which the rule is true. Fuzzy ranges such as "large" and "stable" for the respiratory flow rate are determined by appropriate membership functions. The results of the rules are represented as vectors and then combined by several functions such as taking the centroid. In such combinations, the rules may be weighted equally or weighted in different ways.

[0180] In another implementation of continuous phase determination, the phase Φ is first individually estimated from the respiratory flow rate Qr as described above, similar to the inhalation time Ti and exhalation time Te. The continuous phase Φ at any instant is determined as the value obtained by adding half of the ratio of the inhalation time Ti elapsed from the previous trigger instant or 0.5 rotations to the ratio of the exhalation time Te elapsed from the previous cycle instant (whichever is the more recent instant).

[0181] 5.4.3.2.2 Waveform determination In one embodiment of the present technology, the treatment parameter determination algorithm 4329 provides a substantially constant treatment pressure throughout the patient's respiratory cycle.

[0182] In another embodiment of the present technology, the treatment control module 4330 controls the pressure generator 4140 to provide a treatment pressure Pt that varies as a function of the phase Φ of the patient respiratory cycle according to the waveform template Π(Φ).

[0183] In one embodiment of the present technology, the waveform determination algorithm 4322 provides the waveform template Π(Φ). The waveform template has values within the range of [0, 1] for the range of phase values Φ provided by the phase determination algorithm 4321 that is intended to be used by the treatment parameter determination algorithm 4329.

[0184] In one embodiment, suitable for a phase that takes values either discretely or continuously, the waveform template Π(Φ) is a square wave template, having a value of 1 for phase values up to 0.5 rotations and a value of 0 for phase values exceeding 0.5 rotations. In one embodiment, suitable for a phase that takes values continuously, the waveform template Π(Φ) includes two smoothly curved portions (i.e., a smooth (e.g., rising cosine) rise from 0 to 1 for phase values up to 0.5 rotations and a smooth (e.g., exponential) fall from 1 to 0 for phase values exceeding 0.5 rotations). In one embodiment, suitable for a phase that takes values continuously, the waveform template Π(Φ) is based on a square wave, but has a smooth rise from 0 to 1 for phase values up to a “rise time” lower than 0.5 rotations and a smooth fall from 1 to 0 for phase values within the “fall time” after 0.5 rotations, having a “fall time” lower than 0.5 rotations.

[0185] In some forms of the present technology, the waveform determination algorithm 4322 selects a waveform template Π(Φ) from a library of waveform templates according to the settings of the RPT device. Each waveform template Π(Φ) in the library may be provided as a look-up table of values Π for phase values Φ. In other forms, the waveform determination algorithm 4322 calculates the waveform template Π(Φ) "on the fly" using a predetermined functional form, perhaps parameterized by one or more parameters (e.g., the time constant of the exponential portion). The parameters of the functional form may be predetermined or may depend on the current state of the patient 1000.

[0186] In some forms of the present technology suitable for discrete binary phases of inspiration (Φ = 0 revolutions) or expiration (Φ = 0.5 revolutions), the waveform determination algorithm 4322 calculates the waveform template Π "on the fly" as a function of the discrete phase Φ and time t measured from the most recent trigger instant. In one such form, the waveform determination algorithm 4322 calculates the waveform template Π(Φ,t) in two parts (inspiration and expiration) as follows.

[0187]

Number

[0188] Here, Π i (t) and Π e (t) are the inspiration and expiration portions of the waveform template Π(Φ,t). In one such form, the inspiration portion Π i (t) of the waveform template is a smooth rise from 0 to 1 parameterized by a rise time, and the expiration portion Π e (t) of the waveform template is a smooth fall from 1 to 0 parameterized by a fall time.

[0189] 5.4.3.2.3 Ventilation determination In one aspect of the present technology, the ventilation determination algorithm 4323 receives the respiratory flow rate Qr as an input and determines a measurement indicative of the current patient ventilation Vent.

[0190] In some implementations, the ventilation determination algorithm 4323 determines a measurement of the ventilation Vent, which is an estimate of the actual patient ventilation. In such an implementation, the half value of the absolute value of the respiratory flow rate Qr may be taken, which is optionally filtered by a low-pass filter (e.g., a second-order Bessel low-pass filter with a corner frequency of 0.11 Hz).

[0191] In other implementations, the ventilation determination algorithm 4323 determines a measurement of the ventilation Vent that is largely proportional to the actual patient ventilation. In such an implementation, the peak respiratory flow rate Qpeak is estimated at the inspiratory portion of the cycle. Through the above and many other procedures including sampling of the respiratory flow rate Qr, measurements that are largely proportional to ventilation are obtained, but in the case of these measurements, the fluctuations in the flow waveform shape are not so large (where the shapes of two breaths are taken as being similar when the flow waveforms of the breaths normalized in terms of time and amplitude are similar). To give some simple examples, there are the median of the positive respiratory flow rates, the median of the absolute values of the respiratory flow rates, and the standard deviation of the flow rates. Any linear combination of any order statistics of the absolute value of the respiratory flow rate using positive coefficients (and even some using both positive and negative coefficients) is generally proportional to ventilation. As another example, it is the average of the respiratory flow rates at the central K-th percentage of the inspiratory portion, where 0 < K < 1. When the flow shape is constant, there are any number of measurements that are highly proportional to ventilation.

[0192] 5.4.3.2.4 Determination of Inspiratory Flow Limitation In one aspect of the present technology, the central controller 4230 executes an inspiratory flow limitation determination algorithm 4324 for determining the range of the inspiratory flow limitation.

[0193] In one form, the inspiratory flow limitation determination algorithm 4324 receives the respiratory flow signal Qr as an input and provides as an output a measure of the range in which the inspiratory portion of a breath indicates an inspiratory flow limitation.

[0194] In one form of the present technique, the inspiratory portion of each breath is identified by a zero-crossing detector. A plurality of (e.g., 65) equally-spaced points indicate time points and are interpolated by an interpolator along an inspiratory flow-time curve for each breath. The curve described by these points is then scaled by a scaler to have unit length (duration / period) and unit area, thereby removing the effects due to changes in respiratory rate and depth. Next, the scaled breath is compared in a comparator with a pre-stored template (similar to the inspiratory portion of the breath shown in FIG. 6A) indicating a normal unobstructed breath. At any time during inspiration, if a deviation of the breath from this template due to, for example, a cough, a sigh, a swallow, and a hiccup as determined by a test element exceeds a specified threshold (typically, 1 scale unit), the breath is rejected. For the data that is not rejected, a moving average of the first such scaled point is calculated by the central controller 4230 for several preceding inspiratory events. This is repeated for the second such point over the same inspiratory event and so on. Thus, for example, 65 scaled data points are generated by the central controller 4230 and indicate the moving average of several preceding inspiratory events (e.g., 3 events). Hereinafter in this specification, the moving average of the values of continuously updated (e.g., 65) points is referred to as the "scaled flow rate" and is indicated by Qs(t). Alternatively, a single inspiratory event may be used instead of the moving average.

[0195] Two shape elements related to the determination of a partial obstruction can be calculated from the scaled flow rate.

[0196] Shape factor 1 is the ratio of the average of the intermediate (e.g., 32) scaled flow points to the average of the overall (e.g., 65) scaled flow points. If this ratio exceeds 1, the respiration is considered normal. If this ratio is less than 1, the respiration is considered to have an obstruction. When the ratio is about 1.17, it is considered as the threshold between partial obstruction and unobstructed respiration, equivalent to a certain level of obstruction that enables the maintenance of appropriate oxygen supplementation in typical patients.

[0197] Shape factor 2 is calculated as the mean squared deviation from the unit-scaled flow over the intermediate (e.g., 32) points. When the mean squared deviation is about 0.2 units, it is considered normal. When the mean squared deviation is zero, the respiration is considered as overall flow-restricted. The closer the mean squared deviation approaches zero, the more the respiration is considered as flow-restricted.

[0198] Shape factors 1 and 2 may be used alternatively or in combination. In other forms of the present technology, the number of sampled points, respiration, and intermediate points may be different from those described above. Further, the threshold values may also be different from those described above.

[0199] 5.4.3.2.5 Determination of apnea and hypopnea In one form of the present technology, the central controller 4230 executes an apnea / hypopnea determination algorithm 4325 for determining the presence of apnea and / or hypopnea.

[0200] In one form, the apnea / hypopnea determination algorithm 4325 receives the respiratory flow signal Qr as an input and provides, as an output, a flag indicating whether apnea or hypopnea has been detected.

[0201] In one form, apnea is detected when a function of the respiratory flow rate Qr falls below a flow rate threshold over a predetermined period. This function may determine a peak flow rate, an average flow rate over a relatively short period, or a flow rate intermediate value of the average and peak flow rates over a relatively short period (e.g., RMS flow rate). The flow rate threshold may be a measurement of the flow rate over a relatively long period.

[0202] In one form, hypopnea is detected when a function of the respiratory flow rate Qr falls below a second flow rate threshold over a predetermined period. This function may determine a peak flow rate, an average flow rate over a relatively short period, or a flow rate intermediate value of the average and peak flow rates over a relatively short period (e.g., RMS flow rate). The second flow rate threshold may be a measurement of the flow rate over a relatively long period. The second flow rate threshold is higher than the flow rate threshold used for apnea detection.

[0203] 5.4.3.2.6 Determination of snoring In one form of the present technology, the central controller 4230 executes one or more snoring determination algorithms 4326 for determining the snoring range.

[0204] In one form, the snoring determination algorithm 4326 receives the respiratory flow rate signal Qr as an input and provides, as an output, a measurement of the range in which snoring is present.

[0205] The snoring determination algorithm 4326 may include steps of determining the intensity of the flow rate signal within a range of 30 to 300 Hz. Further, the snoring determination algorithm 4326 may include steps of filtering the respiratory flow rate signal Qr to reduce background noise (e.g., the sound of the air flow in the system from the blower).

[0206] 5.4.3.2.7 Determination of airway patency In one form of the present technology, the central controller 4230 executes one or more airway patency determination algorithms 4327 for determining the range of airway patency.

[0207] In one form, the airway patency determination algorithm 4327 receives the respiratory flow signal Qr as an input and determines the output of the signal within a frequency range of about 0.75 Hz to about 3 Hz. The presence of a peak within this frequency range is considered to indicate airway opening. The absence of a peak is considered an indication of airway closure.

[0208] In one form, the frequency range in which the peak is sought is the frequency range that is the frequency of a small forced oscillation at the therapeutic pressure Pt. In one implementation, the forced oscillation is at a frequency of 2 Hz with an amplitude of about 1 cmH2O.

[0209] In one form, the airway patency determination algorithm 4327 receives the respiratory flow signal Qr as an input and determines the presence or absence of a cardiac-generated signal. The absence of a cardiac-generated signal is considered an indication of airway closure.

[0210] 5.4.3.2.8 Determination of Target Ventilation In one form of the present technology, the central controller 4230 takes the measurement of the current ventilation Vent as an input and executes one or more target ventilation determination algorithms 4328 for the determination of a target value Vtgt for the ventilation measurement.

[0211] In some forms of the present technology, the target ventilation determination algorithm 4328 does not exist and the target value Vtgt is predetermined and obtained, for example, by hard coding at the time of configuration of the RPT device 4000 or by manual input through the input device 4220.

[0212] In other forms of the present technology, such as adaptive servo ventilation (ASV), the target ventilation determination algorithm 4328 calculates the target value Vtgt from a value Vtyp indicative of the patient's typical recent ventilation.

[0213] In some forms of adaptive servo ventilation, the target ventilation Vtgt is calculated as a value that is high and less than the typical recent ventilation Vtyp. Such high rates of this form can be in the range (80%, 100%), or (85%, 95%), or (87%, 92%).

[0214] In other forms of adaptive servo ventilation, the target ventilation Vtgt is calculated as a value slightly above a multiple of 1 of the typical recent ventilation Vtyp.

[0215] The typical recent ventilation Vtyp is a value around which measurements of the current ventilation Vent are distributed over a plurality of time instants over some predetermined time scale and tend to cluster (i.e., a measure of the central tendency of the measurements of the current ventilation in the recent history). In one implementation of the target ventilation determination algorithm 4328, the recent history is on the order of minutes, but in any case must be longer than the time scale of the chain - stokes increment and decrement cycles. The target ventilation determination algorithm 4328 can determine the typical recent ventilation Vtyp from the measurements of the current ventilation Vent using any of a variety of well - known measures of central tendency. One such measure is the low - pass filter output for the measurements of the current ventilation Vent, with a time constant equal to 100 seconds.

[0216] 5.4.3.2.9 Determination of treatment parameters In some forms of the present technology, the central controller 4230 executes one or more treatment parameter determination algorithms 4329 for the determination of one or more treatment parameters using values returned from one or more of the other algorithms in the treatment engine module 4320.

[0217] In one form of the present technology, the treatment parameter is the instantaneous treatment pressure Pt. In one implementation of this form, the treatment parameter determination algorithm 4329 determines the treatment pressure Pt using the following equation.

[0218]

Equation

[0219] Here: ● A is the amplitude, ● Π(Φ,t) is the waveform template value (in the range from 0 to 1) at the current value Φ of the phase and time t, ● P0 is the base pressure.

[0220] When the waveform determination algorithm 4322 provides the waveform template Π(Φ,t) as a look-up table of values Π indexed by the phase Φ, the treatment parameter determination algorithm 4329 applies equation (1) by locating the nearest look-up table input for the current value Φ of the phase returned from the phase determination algorithm 4321 or by interpolation between two inputs straddling the current value Φ of the phase.

[0221] The values of the amplitude A and the base pressure P0 can be set by the treatment parameter determination algorithm 4329 according to the respiratory pressure treatment mode selected as follows.

[0222] 5.4.3.3 Treatment control module The treatment control module 4330 according to one aspect of the present technology receives, as an input, the treatment parameters from the treatment parameter determination algorithm 4329 of the treatment engine module 4320, and controls the pressure generator so as to deliver an air flow from the pressure generator 4140 in accordance with these treatment parameters.

[0223] In one form of the present technology, the treatment parameter is the treatment pressure Pt, and the treatment control module 4330 controls the pressure generator so as to deliver an air flow from the pressure generator 4140 such that the mask pressure Pm at the patient interface 3000 is equal to the treatment pressure Pt.

[0224] 5.4.3.4 Detection of failure states In one aspect of the present technology, the central controller 4230 executes one or more methods (fault condition detection algorithm 4340) for detecting a fault condition. The fault condition detected by the one or more methods may include at least one of the following: ● Power outage (no power or insufficient power) ● Detection of converter failure ● Failure to detect the presence of a component ● Operating parameters are outside the recommended range (e.g., pressure, flow rate, temperature, PaO2) ● Failure to perform a test warning for generating a detectable warning signal.

[0225] When a fault condition is detected, the corresponding fault condition detection algorithm 4340 signal signals the presence of a fault by one or more of the following: ● Initiation of audible, visual and / or kinetic (e.g., vibratory) warnings ● Sending a message to an external device ● Logging of incidents

[0226] 5.5 Air circuit An air circuit 4170 according to one aspect of the present technology is a conduit or tube constructed and arranged such that an air flow moves between two components (e.g., the RPT device 4000 and the patient interface 3000) during use.

[0227] Specifically, the air circuit 4170 may be in fluid connection with the outlet of the pneumatic block 4020 and the patient interface. The air circuit may be referred to as 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.

[0228] In some forms, the air circuit 4170 can include one or more heating elements configured to heat the air in the air circuit (e.g., for maintaining or increasing the air temperature). The heating element can take the form of a heating wire circuit and can include one or more transducers (e.g., a temperature sensor). In one form, the heating wire circuit can be wound helically around the axis of the air circuit 4170. The heating element can communicate with a controller (e.g., the central controller 4230). An example of an air circuit 4170 including a heating wire circuit is described in U.S. Patent Application No. 8,733,349. The entire disclosure of this document is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

[0229] 5.6 Oxygen Delivery In one form of the technology, supplemental oxygen 4180 can be delivered to one or more points in the pneumatic path (e.g., upstream of the pneumatic block 4020), the air circuit 4170, and / or the patient interface 3000.

[0230] 5.7 Humidifier 5.7.1 Overview of the Humidifier In one form of the technology, a humidifier 5000 is provided for varying the absolute humidity of the air or gas to be delivered to the patient relative to the ambient air (e.g., such as that shown in FIG. 5C). Typically, the humidifier 5000 is used to increase the absolute humidity (relative to the ambient air) and increase the temperature of the air flow before it is delivered to the patient's airway.

[0231] 5.7.2 RPT Device and Humidifier Figures 6A, 6B, and 7 show an integrated RPT device and a humidifier 6000 according to an example of the present technology. In the illustrated example, the integrated RPT device and the humidifier 6000 include a water reservoir dock 6050 structured and arranged to receive a water reservoir 6100 (also referred to as a humidifier bath or a humidifier reservoir). In the illustrated example, the integrated RPT device and the humidifier 6000 include a humidifier integrated with the RPT device such that components performing the functions of the RPT device and components performing the functions of the humidifier are included in an air pressure block 7100 of the RPT device. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the reservoir dock 6050 is integrated with the air pressure block 7100 of the RPT device to provide an integrated unit, and the reservoir dock 6050 is structured and arranged to receive the water reservoir 6100.

[0232] In another arrangement configuration, it should be understood that a humidifier (e.g., the reservoir dock 6050) may be provided separately to the RPT device (e.g., the air pressure block 7100). In such an arrangement configuration, an additional interface may be used to connect the humidifier (e.g., the reservoir dock 6050) to the RPT device (e.g., the air pressure block 7100).

[0233] In the RPT device, a blower is supported within the air pressure block 7100. The blower is structured and arranged to generate an air flow or supply at a positive pressure (e.g., in the range of 2 to 50 cmH2O). In one example, the blower may also include a single-stage design or a multi-stage design (e.g., a design of two or more stages). The blower is operable to supply air into the air pressure block 7100 (e.g., through one or more intake openings of the air pressure block), draw it into its inlet (the blower inlet), and provide a pressurized air supply at its outlet (the blower outlet). Examples and details of an exemplary blower are described in PCT Patent Application Publication No. WO2013 / 020167. This document is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The blower outlet communicates with the humidifier (e.g., the inlet of the water reservoir 6100).

[0234] The pneumatic block 7100 includes a chassis assembly 7300 (e.g., including an upper chassis and a lower chassis). The chassis assembly 7300 includes a chassis inlet (not shown) and a chassis outlet 7320 (see, e.g., FIGS. 25 and 27). In an example, the pneumatic block 7100 can be enclosed by an external housing including one or more panels and / or one or more user inputs / displays (see, e.g., FIGS. 6A and 6B). The chassis assembly 7300 supports and / or houses internal components of the pneumatic block 7100 (e.g., a blower). The chassis assembly 7300 also supports a printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) 7600. The printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) 7600 can include one or more components and features described with reference to PCBA 4202. The chassis assembly 7300 and the internal components of the pneumatic block cooperate to form a pneumatic airflow path extending from the chassis inlet to the blower inlet of the blower and from the blower outlet of the blower to the chassis outlet 7320. The chassis outlet 7320 is adapted to communicate with the reservoir dock 6050 and the inlet of the water reservoir 6100 when the water reservoir is received in the reservoir dock 6050. The reservoir dock 6050 is also configured and arranged to enable communication between the outlet of the water reservoir 6100 and the air circuit 4170 as described in more detail below.

[0235] 5.7.3 Humidifier Components 5.7.3.1 Water Reservoir Figures 6A, 6B, and 8 illustrate a water reservoir 6100 according to an example of the present technology. The water reservoir 6100 can be configured to contain or hold a certain amount of liquid (e.g., water) to be evaporated for humidifying an air flow. The water reservoir 6100 can be configured to contain a predetermined maximum amount of water to provide adequate humidification over at least the duration of a respiratory therapy session (e.g., overnight sleep). Typically, the water reservoir is configured to hold several hundred milliliters of water (e.g., 300 milliliters (ml), 325 ml, 350 ml, or 400 ml), although it should be understood that other volumes of liquid can also be utilized (e.g., at least 100 ml). In other forms, the humidifier can be configured to receive a water supply from an external water source (e.g., a building water supply system).

[0236] In the illustrated example, the water reservoir 6100 includes a reservoir base 6112 (also referred to as a reservoir body, a humidifier tube base, or a humidifier housing) and a reservoir lid 6114 (also referred to as a humidifier housing lid) removably coupled to the reservoir base 6112. A deformable seal can be provided to the reservoir lid and / or the reservoir base. When the reservoir lid 6114 is coupled to the reservoir base 6112, the seal is structured and arranged to engage the reservoir lid 6114 and the reservoir base 6112 such that the lid and the base are sealed and escape of water from the water reservoir is avoided. The reservoir lid 6114 can be structured to be completely removable from the reservoir base 6112, which facilitates use by a patient, for example, when cleaning the interior of the reservoir base and / or the reservoir lid. In another example, the reservoir lid 6114 can be permanently attached to the reservoir base 6112.

[0237] According to one aspect, the water reservoir 6100 is configured to humidify the air flow from the RPT device as the air flow passes through the RPT device. In one form, the water reservoir 6100 can be configured to facilitate the movement of the air flow along a serpentine path in the reservoir while the air flow contacts a certain amount of water in the reservoir. For example, the water reservoir 6100 can include one or more flow elements (e.g., baffles for facilitating the serpentine flow path).

[0238] As described in more detail below, the water reservoir 6100 can be removably coupled to the reservoir dock 6050. In an example, the insertion / removal of the water reservoir can be provided along a path described in the front-rear direction. In another example, at least a portion of the path for the insertion / removal of the water reservoir can extend in the up-down direction (e.g., at least a portion of the insertion path includes an inclination or a drop-down to the operating position).

[0239] The water reservoir 6100 can also be configured to suppress the liquid discharge from the reservoir when the reservoir is displaced and / or rotated from its normal orientation (e.g., through any aperture and / or between its sub-components). Since the air flow to be humidified by the humidifier is often pressurized, the reservoir can also be configured to prevent air pressure loss through leakage and / or flow impedance.

[0240] Reservoir base As shown in FIG. 8, the reservoir base 6112 includes a body 6140 including a plurality of walls and a conductive portion 6150, and this body 6140 is typically provided at the bottom of the walls to form a chamber or cavity for holding the water volume.

[0241] The reservoir base 6112 is structured and arranged to engage or interface with the reservoir lid 6114.

[0242] The reservoir base 6112 can be structured and arranged to hold the reservoir lid 6114 relative to the reservoir base 6112 (e.g., hinge arrangement configuration and / or snap-fit lock tabs that releasably hold the reservoir lid to the reservoir base).

[0243] Conductive portion The conductive portion 6150 is configured to enable efficient heat transfer from a heating element (e.g., the heater plate 6080 of the reservoir dock 6050 shown in FIG. 6B) to a fixed volume of liquid in the reservoir. In one form, the conductive portion can be arranged as a plate, although other shapes may also be suitable. All or part of the conductive portion can be composed of a heat-conductive material such as aluminum (e.g., approximately 2 mm thick (e.g., 1 mm, 1.5 mm, 2.5 mm, or 3 mm)), another heat-conductive metal, or some plastic. In some cases, suitable heat conductivity can be achieved with a lower-conductivity material of appropriate geometry.

[0244] Conductive portion including a metal plate and / or thin film In an example, the conductive portion 6150 can include a metal plate, a thin non-metallic film (also called a film plate or film base), or a composite laminated arrangement of a metal plate and a thin non-metallic film. As described below, the conductive portion 6150 is configured to be thermally connected to the heater plate 6080 of the reservoir dock 6050 to enable heat conduction from the heater plate 6080 to a fixed volume of liquid in the water reservoir 6100.

[0245] 5.7.3.2 Reservoir dock The reservoir dock 6050 can be provided in the chassis assembly 7300 of the RPT device and is configured and arranged to receive the water reservoir 6100. In some arrangements, the reservoir dock 6050 can include locking features (e.g., a locking lever or tab configured to hold the water reservoir 6100 within the reservoir dock 6050).

[0246] The reservoir dock 6050 includes a body that forms a cavity for receiving the water reservoir 6100. As best shown in FIG. 27, the rear wall of the reservoir dock 6050 includes a chassis outlet 7320 (also referred to as a dock inlet) that is structured and arranged to receive the pressurized air flow to be delivered to the water reservoir 6100 from the outlet of the RPT device. The reservoir dock 6050 may also include a dock outlet that is structured and arranged to connect to or otherwise interface with the air delivery tube 4170 or an intermediate component (e.g., intermediate component 6700, intermediate component 8700, or intermediate component 9700) that connects to the air delivery tube 4170. In an example of the present technology, the reservoir dock 6050 may enable the air delivery tube 4170 to form a direct pneumatic connection to the water reservoir 6100, whereby a humidified pressurized air flow in the water reservoir 6100 is delivered directly from the water reservoir 6100 to the air delivery tube 4170.

[0247] The body of the reservoir dock 6050 includes a plurality of walls and a heating element (e.g., heater plate 6080). The heating element (e.g., heater plate 6080) is provided on the bottom of the walls to form a cavity for receiving the water reservoir 6100.

[0248] 5.7.3.3 Connection of the water reservoir to the reservoir dock In use, the water reservoir 6100 is removably coupled to the reservoir dock 6050 by insertion of the water reservoir 6100 into the reservoir dock 6050. When the water reservoir is positioned for direct engagement with the air delivery conduit 4170, when the water reservoir 6100 is coupled to the reservoir dock 6050, the inlet seal (or inlet) of the inlet tube 6120 of the water reservoir 6100 is structured and arranged to provide a face seal with the chassis outlet 7320 (dock inlet) of the reservoir dock 6050. Similarly, the outlet seal 6132 of the outlet tube 6130 (or outlet) of the water reservoir 6100 is structured to provide a face seal against the air circuit or the air delivery tube 4170 (e.g., for avoidance of air pressure drop due to leakage). In the illustrated example, the water reservoir 6100 is structured and arranged to form a direct air pressure seal against the air delivery conduit 4170, completely bypassing the RPT device and the reservoir dock 6050. The reservoir dock 6050 facilitates this direct connection, but does not form part of this direct connection.

[0249] Removing the RPT device and the reservoir dock 6050 from the air delivery path eliminates the presence of the connection components disposed internally between the water reservoir 6100 and the air delivery conduit 4170. This eliminates the need to disassemble and sterilize such connection components, thus making sterilization much easier. In this way, when preparing the device for different users, the water reservoir 6100 is the only component of the RPT device that requires replacement and sterilization.

[0250] The water reservoir 6100 is inserted into the reservoir dock 6050, and when it reaches the operating position, the conductive portion 6150 of the water reservoir 6100 is aligned with and in thermal contact with the heater plate 6080 of the reservoir dock 6050, enabling heat transfer from the heater plate 6080 to the water in the water reservoir 6100 (e.g., the surface of the conductive portion 6150 engages or contacts the surface of the heater plate 6080). A biasing mechanism for pressing the water reservoir and the heater plate against each other may be introduced, whereby the level of thermal contact between the conductive portion and the heater plate changes. In one example, a spring element is provided on the water reservoir, and the reservoir dock and / or the heater plate may be arranged such that by biasing the water reservoir and the heater plate against each other, an increase in contact pressure and an improvement in thermal contact are possible.

[0251] The chassis outlet 7320 (dock inlet) is configured to receive the pressurized air flow from the blower of the RPT device and send the air flow into the water reservoir 6100 through the inlet pipe 6120 of the water reservoir 6100. As air passes through the water reservoir 6100, moisture (i.e., water vapor) is added to the air flow, and this humidified air flow exits the water reservoir through the outlet pipe 6130. The air flow is sent directly from the outlet pipe 6130 into the air delivery pipe 4170 to deliver the humidified air flow to the patient.

[0252] 5.7.3.4 Guide Structure for Insertion / Removal In an example, the dock engagement portion obtained by the outer portion of the water reservoir 6100 is structured and arranged to interface with and engage the reservoir engagement portion of the reservoir dock 6050. In an example, the water reservoir 6100 and the reservoir dock 6050 may include a guide structure for facilitating insertion, removal, and alignment of the water reservoir 6100 with respect to the reservoir dock 6050.

[0253] For example, as shown in FIG. 6B, the opposing side portions of the water reservoir 6100 along the dock engagement portion may include guide surfaces (e.g., provided by the guide rails 6200). These guide surfaces are arranged to engage with corresponding guide surfaces (e.g., provided by the guide slots 6060) along the reservoir engagement portion of the reservoir dock 6050 to guide the water reservoir 6100 into the reservoir dock 6050.

[0254] In an example, as shown in FIG. 6B, the water reservoir 6100 may be inserted / removed (e.g., by sliding or only pressing / pulling) along a path that extends in the lateral direction (i.e., the front-rear direction) inside and outside the cavity of the reservoir dock 6050.

[0255] In another example, at least a part of the path for inserting / removing the water reservoir may extend in the up-down direction. For example, at least a part of the path for inserting the water reservoir into the dock includes an inclined portion (e.g., a raised or lowered portion into the operating position).

[0256] For example, the guide structure of the water reservoir 6100 and the reservoir dock 6050 can be structured and arranged to provide for an initial horizontal or inclined insertion of the water reservoir and a subsequent downward portion to the operating position of the final portion. In an example, the reservoir dock can provide an inclined surface and an inner edge disposed on the bottom surface of the dock. The water reservoir needs to pass through this inner edge in order to descend to the operating position. The reservoir can be effectively locked in the operating position by the passed edge and / or the downward portion itself. Additional locking features can be used. Such a "press and drop" configuration involves the movement of the tank having components in both the horizontal and vertical directions. Optionally providing an edge enables the base of the water reservoir to be reliably engaged with a single edge or a small surface (rather than on a much larger surface) when the water reservoir is inserted into the reservoir dock. This reduces any possibility of wear and tear of the heater plate. A spring element can be disposed (e.g., between the reservoir dock and the water reservoir) to increase the contact pressure between the water reservoir and the heater plate (e.g., improve the thermal contact between the base plate of the reservoir and the heater plate of the dock).

[0257] 5.7.3.5 Retaining Features In an example, as shown in FIG. 6B, the water reservoir 6100 can include a latch 6400. This latch 6400 is configured to releasably engage with a recessed slot 6055 within the reservoir dock 6050 to releasably hold the water reservoir 6100 in the operating position within the reservoir dock 6050. Such a locking arrangement configuration avoids a situation where the water reservoir is disengaged from the dock, and in some arrangements, such disengagement of the water reservoir can be facilitated by a relatively high operable pressure within the dock during operation of the device.

[0258] In the illustrated example, the latch 6400 is provided as a separate and distinct structure from the water reservoir 6100 and is then fixed to the water reservoir 6100 in the operating position or provided in some other manner. For example, the latch 6400 includes a pre-formed structure that is fixed to the reservoir lid 6114 or to some other part of the water reservoir 6100. In the example, the latch 6400 includes plastic or a thermoplastic polymer material.

[0259] 5.7.3.6 Connection of the air delivery tube to the reservoir dock In the example, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 9-15, the air delivery tube 4170 includes a tube portion 4500, a dock connector / cuff 4600 (outlet connector) that connects the air delivery tube 4170 to the reservoir dock 6050 and / or the water reservoir 6100, and a patient interface connector / cuff (the inlet connector shown in FIGS. 1A-1C) that connects the air delivery tube 4170 to the patient interface 3000.

[0260] In the example, the dock connector 4600 is structured and arranged to form a mechanical and / or electrical connection to the reservoir dock 6050 and to form a pneumatic connection with the water reservoir 6100 and / or the reservoir dock 6050. These connections allow the air delivery tube 4170 to be positioned and fixed to the reservoir dock 6050 or the water reservoir 6100, power, information, and control signals to be provided to heating elements and transducers associated with the air delivery tube 4170, and / or humidified pressurized gas to flow from the water reservoir 6100 to the patient interface 3000. During engagement of the air delivery tube 4170 with the water reservoir 6100 and the reservoir dock 6050, these connections may be formed simultaneously or may be formed such that, for example, one of the pneumatic, mechanical, or electrical connections is completed prior to the others.

[0261] The dock connector 4600 of the air delivery tube 4170 includes a retaining feature that provides a fixed non-rotatable connection with the dock outlet 6090 of the reservoir dock 6050.

[0262] In one example, the air delivery tube 4170 may include a plurality of wires (e.g., configured to heat the air within the air delivery tube and / or transmit signals from one or more transducers (e.g., temperature sensor, flow sensor) to the controller of the RPT device) helically wound about the axis of the air delivery tube 4170 (e.g., along the tube portion 4500 of the air delivery conduit 4170).

[0263] In an example, the air delivery tube 4170 may include four wires (e.g., two wires for powering one or more heating elements and two wires for connecting a temperature sensor / transducer). However, it should be understood that other numbers of wires may be used (e.g., two wires, three wires, or five or more wires).

[0264] In an example, the dock connector 4600 of the air delivery tube 4170 includes a contact assembly that includes contacts. These contacts engage with each contact provided in the reservoir dock 6050 during use to form an electrical connection with the reservoir dock at the dock outlet to provide power and / or control signal transmission. In an example, the contacts of the dock connector 4600 may be joined to each wire extending along the air delivery tube 4170. In another example, at least some of these contacts are not associated with the wires extending along the air delivery tube 4170 but are characterized by their own unique and / or distinct electrical properties (e.g., resistance, conductance). Such unique and / or distinct electrical properties may be used to identify one or more elements of the tube / patient interface system or properties of these elements.

[0265] In an example, the dock outlet 6090 of the reservoir dock 6050 includes a contact assembly that communicates with power and electrical signal transmission within the reservoir dock (e.g., PCBA 7600). In an example, the contacts included in the contact assembly correspond to the number of contacts (four contacts) provided in the dock connector 4600 of the air delivery tube 4170.

[0266] Each contact or combination of contacts within the contact assembly of the air delivery tube 4170 can have unique electrical characteristics. Thus, in an example, the contact assembly of the air delivery tube 4170 can be used as an identifier of various parameters of the air delivery tube 4170 and / or the patient interface. For example, the contact assembly can be configured to provide identification of the type of air delivery tube 4170 (e.g., non-heated tube, heated tube, tube including a heat moisture exchanger (HME), unknown tube), the size of the air delivery tube (e.g., 15 mm, 19 mm), the presence and type of HME, the type of patient interface connected to the tube, etc. Data from the identification can be communicated and utilized by a controller, for example, for purposes such as optimization of the operation of an RPT device, a humidifier, and facilitation of data collection. For example, since the controller can be configured to recognize the unique identification features provided by the contact assembly, the controller can recognize the specific characteristics of the air delivery tube 4170 connected to the reservoir dock 6050, thus enabling the controller to automatically configure the RPT device and / or the humidifier for optimal operation.

[0267] 5.7.3.6.1 Bayonet-Type Connection and Intermediate Components Figures 9 to 22 show another example of the connection of the reservoir dock 6050 of the air delivery pipe 4170 and the water reservoir 6100. In this example, the intermediate component 6700 is removably connected to the reservoir dock 6050. The intermediate component 6700 is configured to pneumatically connect the water reservoir 6100 to the air delivery pipe 4170, thereby enabling a pressurized air flow humidified in the water reservoir 6100 to be delivered from the water reservoir 6100 to the air delivery pipe 4170 via the intermediate component 6700. Also, in this example, the dock connector 4600 of the air delivery pipe 4170 is structured and arranged to form a bayonet connection with the reservoir dock 6050, whereby the air delivery pipe 4170 is mechanically and / or electrically connected to the reservoir dock 6050. That is, the bayonet connection enables the placement and fixation of the air delivery pipe 4170 to the reservoir dock 6050 and / or the provision of power, information, and control signals to the heating element and converter associated with the air delivery pipe 4170.

[0268] 5.7.4 Humidifier Converter(s) The humidifier 5000 may include one or more humidifier converters (sensors) 5210 instead of or in addition to the converter 4270 described above. The humidifier converter 5210 may include one or more of an air pressure sensor 5212, an air flow converter 5214, a temperature sensor 5216, or a humidity sensor 5218 as shown in FIG. 5G. The humidifier converter 5210 may generate one or more output signals. These output signals may be communicated to a controller (e.g., the central controller 4230 and / or the humidifier controller 5250). In some forms, the humidifier converter may be disposed outside the humidifier 5000 (e.g., within the air circuit 4170) while communicating the output signals to the controller.

[0269] 5.7.4.1 Pressure Converter One or more pressure converters 5212 may be provided to the humidifier 5000 in addition to or instead of the pressure sensor 4272 provided within the RPT device 4000.

[0270] 5.7.4.2 Flow Converter In addition to or instead of the flow sensor 4274 provided in the RPT device, one or more air flow converters 5214 may be provided to the humidifier 5000.

[0271] 5.7.4.3 Temperature Converter The humidifier 5000 may include one or more temperature converters 5216. One or more temperature converters 5216 may be configured to measure one or more temperatures (e.g., the temperature of the heating element 5240 and / or the temperature downstream of the air flow at the humidifier outlet). In some forms, the humidifier 5000 may further include a temperature sensor 5216 that detects the temperature of the ambient air.

[0272] 5.7.4.4 Humidity Converter In one form, the humidifier 5000 may include one or more humidity sensors 5218 that detect the humidity of a gas such as ambient air. In some forms, the humidity sensor 5218 may be arranged towards the humidifier outlet to measure the humidity of the gas delivered from the humidifier 5000. The humidity sensor may be an absolute humidity sensor or a relative humidity sensor.

[0273] 5.7.5 Heating Element As shown in FIG. 6B and other figures, the heater plate 6080 is used for heat transfer to the water reservoir. In the illustrated example, the heater plate may form part of the reservoir dock 6050 and may be disposed on or adjacent to the base of the reservoir dock. At least the top layer of the heater plate includes a hard scratch-resistant surface (which may be formed, for example, by nickel-chromium alloy, stainless steel or anodizing). This heater plate can transfer heat from the heating element. The heating element may include a heat generating component such as an electrical resistance heating track. One suitable example of a heating element is, for example, the layered heating element described in PCT Patent Application Publication No. WO2012 / 171072. The entire content of this document is incorporated herein by reference.

[0274] 5.7.6 Humidifier Controller According to one arrangement of the present technology, the humidifier 5000 may include a humidifier controller 5250 as shown in FIG. 5G. In one form, the humidifier controller 5250 may be part of the central controller 4230. In another form, the humidifier controller 5250 may be a separate controller that can communicate with the central controller 4230.

[0275] In one form, the humidifier controller 5250 may receive measurements of characteristics (such as temperature, humidity, pressure, and / or flow rate) as inputs (such as measurements of the air flow and water in the water reservoir 5110 and / or in the humidifier 5000). The humidifier controller 5250 may also be configured to perform the execution or implementation of a humidifier algorithm and / or deliver one or more output signals.

[0276] As shown in FIG. 5G, the humidifier controller 5250 may include one or more controllers (such as a central humidifier controller 5251, a heated air circuit controller 5254 configured to control the temperature of the heated air circuit 4171, and / or a heating element controller 5252 configured to control the temperature of the heating element 5240).

[0277] 5.8 Intermediate Components As shown in FIGS. 9 - 22, by providing an intermediate component 6700 to the dock outlet 6090 of the reservoir dock 6050, the water reservoir 6100 is pneumatically connected to the air delivery tube 4170. In the illustrated example, by removably connecting the intermediate component 6700 to the reservoir dock 6050, the intermediate component 6700 can be disassembled for cleaning, sterilizing, and / or replacement (for example, for multi-patient multi-use (MPMU) applications).

[0278] As shown in FIGS. 9-22, the intermediate component 6700 includes a tubular body 6705. The tubular body 6705 includes an inlet end 6710 adapted to interface with the water reservoir 6100 and an outlet end 6720 adapted to interface with the air delivery tube 4170. The intermediate component 6700 also includes retention features and alignment features. These retention features and alignment features are structured and arranged to align the intermediate component 6700 with the reservoir dock 6050 and provide a removable non-rotatable connection with the reservoir dock 6050. Additionally, the intermediate component 6700 includes a port 6730 (e.g., a pressure port for insertion of a sensor that measures air pressure at the dock outlet 6090 or a sound port for propagating sound from within the intermediate component 6700 to a sensor external to the intermediate component 6700). The port 6730 includes a port seal 6735 that provides a hermetic interface between a sensor (e.g., a pressure sensor or a sound sensor) and the intermediate component 6700. As will be described later in the text, an acoustically transparent cover (e.g., in the form of a membrane that covers the port 6730) can also be provided in the arrangement configuration. The body of the cover can be integrated with the body of at least one of the at least one port 6730 and the port seal 6735.

[0279] In the illustrated example (e.g., see FIG. 22), the tubular body 6705 (including the inlet end 6710 and the outlet end 6720) includes a first portion or base mold constructed of a relatively high-rigidity material (e.g., a thermoplastic polymer (e.g., PC, ABS)) along with the retention features and alignment features. A second portion or overmold included in the port seal 6735 is constructed of a relatively soft material (e.g., a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or silicone) provided on the first portion (e.g., by overmolding). Thus, the intermediate component 6700 provides a substantially rigid structure (e.g., for durability for MPMU applications).

[0280] In the illustrated example, the inlet end 6710 is disposed obliquely with respect to the outlet end 6720. For example, the axis of the inlet end is disposed at about 90° with respect to the axis of the outlet end. However, it should be understood that other suitable angles are possible (e.g., the axis of the inlet end is disposed at about 45° with respect to the axis of the outlet end).

[0281] The free end of the inlet end 6710 includes a flange or lip 6712 that surrounds the tube opening. The flange or lip 6712 provides a contact surface 6715. When the water reservoir 6100 is connected to the reservoir dock 6050, the outlet seal 6132 of the outlet pipe 6130 (or outlet) of the water reservoir 6100 is structured to engage the contact surface 6715 of the inlet end 6710 and provide a face seal to the contact surface 6715 of the inlet end 6710. In another embodiment, the seal between the outlet pipe 6130 (or outlet) of the water reservoir 6100 and the contact surface 6715 of the inlet end 6710 may be an integral part of the inlet end 6710, or alternatively, a sealing portion independent of the outlet pipe 6130 or the inlet end 6710. In the illustrated example, the contact surface 6715 includes a tapered portion into the tube opening (e.g., for improved sealing and leakage prevention).

[0282] The outlet end 6720 may include an ISO tapered portion (e.g., an ISO tapered portion with an outer diameter of 22 mm) for connection to the air delivery conduit 4170.

[0283] For the retention feature and the alignment feature, the intermediate component 6700 includes a pair of resilient pinch arms 6740 (i.e., cantilever spring arms). Each of the spring or pinch arms 6740 may include a barbed end or tab 6745. The barbed end or tab 6745 is configured to provide a snap-fit connection to each locking member (e.g., projection 6750) provided within the cavity of the reservoir dock 6050 as shown in FIG. 12. The intermediate component 6700 also includes guide rails 6760. The guide rails 6760 are configured and arranged to assist in the proper alignment and insertion of the intermediate component 6700 into the reservoir dock 6050 by engagement with corresponding guide slots 6755 that extend into the cavity of the reservoir dock 6050 as shown in FIGS. 12, 16, and 18. Further, the intermediate component 6700 includes a flange 6770 disposed between an inlet end 6710 and an outlet end 6720. This flange 6770 assists in the placement or positioning of the intermediate component 6700 within the reservoir dock 6050 (e.g., by abutment against a flange or wall provided on the reservoir dock 6050) (e.g., the flange functions as a stop during insertion). The flange 6770 of the intermediate component 6700 may include one or more cutouts or recesses 6772 (e.g., to accommodate fasteners or protrusions along a flange or wall provided on the reservoir dock 6050).

[0284] When the intermediate component 6700 is inserted into the dock opening 6091 of the reservoir dock 6050, the intermediate component 6700 is oriented to engage its guide rail 6760 with the guide slot 6755. The guide slot 6755 guides the alignment correction and movement of the intermediate component 6700 to its operating position. Also, since the dock opening 6091 and / or the opening provided by the lock and contact assembly 6900 in the dock opening 6091 includes a non-circular profile, the orientation correction of the intermediate component 6700 during insertion is facilitated. When the intermediate component 6700 reaches its operating position, the barbed end or tab 6745 of the spring or pinch arm 6740 is configured and arranged to engage the upper and / or rear side of each projection 6750 (see, for example, FIG. 12). Each barbed end 6745 and / or each projection 6750 may include a tapered portion that facilitates engagement to the operating position. In an example, engagement between the spring or pinch arm 6740 and the projection 6750 may provide a tactile feedback (e.g., an audible click) indicating a correct connection. This snap-fit connection fixes the intermediate component 6700 releasably to the reservoir dock 6050. To disengage the intermediate component 6700, the spring or pinch arms 6740 are manually pressed against each other (e.g., with or without a tool), elastically deflecting the spring or pinch arms 6740 and their barbed ends 6745 against the biasing force and moving them to an unlocked position (i.e., by moving the barbed end 6745 out of engagement with the projection 6750, it becomes possible to remove the intermediate component 6700 from the reservoir dock 6050).

[0285] After the establishment of this connection, through the cooperation of the holding feature and the alignment feature obtained by the intermediate component 6700 / reservoir dock 6050, a removable and non-rotatable connection to the dock outlet 6090 of the reservoir dock 6050 of the intermediate component 6700 becomes possible. Also, after the connection, the spring or pinch arm 6740 of the intermediate component 6700 is engaged in a locked state within the cavity of the reservoir dock 6050 to avoid, for example, the situation where the intermediate component 6700 comes off when the water reservoir 6100 is received within the reservoir dock 6050.

[0286] When the intermediate component 6700 is connected to the dock outlet 6090 of the reservoir dock 6050, the inlet end 6710 and its contact surface 6715 project into the cavity of the reservoir dock 6050 to enable engagement with the outlet seal of the outlet pipe 6130 (or outlet) of the water reservoir 6100 (see, for example, FIG. 12). Similarly, the outlet end 6720 of the intermediate component 6700 extends into and / or projects from the cavity of the reservoir dock 6050 to enable engagement with the air delivery pipe 4170 (see, for example, FIG. 9). Further, the port 6730 of the intermediate component 6700 is, for example, directed upward so as to interface with a sensor associated with a PCBA disposed above the intermediate component 6700 in the operating configuration of the RPT device.

[0287] 5.8.1 Bayonet-Type Lock and Contact Assembly As shown in FIGS. 9 to 18, the lock and contact assembly 6900 is provided at the dock outlet 6090 of the reservoir dock 6050 to mechanically and electrically connect the reservoir dock 6050 to the air delivery pipe 4170. In the illustrated example, the bayonet-type connection included in the lock and contact assembly 6900 is structured and arranged to effect the placement and fixation of the air delivery pipe 4170 to the reservoir dock 6050 and to form mechanical, pneumatic, and electrical (both power signal and control signal) connections. The lock and contact assembly 6900 may be in a form separate from the RPT device 6000 or may be integrated with the RPT device 6000.

[0288] As shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, the lock and contact assembly 6900 includes a base 6910, an (electrical) contact assembly 6950 provided on the base, and a cover 6970 provided on the base 6910 so as to enclose at least a part of the electrical contact assembly 6950.

[0289] The rear wall 6912 included in the base 6910 of the lock and contact assembly 6900 is fixed to one or more walls surrounding the dock opening 6091, for example via one or more fasteners, to fix the base 6910 at the dock outlet 6090 of the reservoir dock 6050. As shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, the rear wall 6912 includes, for example, a non-circular opening 6915. By aligning this opening 6915 with the dock opening 6091, it enables the insertion and connection of the intermediate component 6700 as described above (for example, the non-circular opening 6915 is adapted to receive the intermediate component 6700 with a non-circular profile). The non-circular profile assists the user in the orientation alignment of the intermediate component 6700 and the lock and contact assembly 6900 during insertion. Further, as described above, the rear wall 6912 provides a stop for the intermediate component 6700 during assembly, for example, at least a part of the flange 6770 of the intermediate component 6700 can abut against the rear wall 6912.

[0290] The base 6910 of the lock and contact assembly 6900 includes an annular side wall 6920. The annular side wall 6920 projects outwardly from the rear wall 6912 in the axial direction. When the intermediate component 6700 is connected to the reservoir dock 6050, the outlet end 6720 of the intermediate component 6700 and the annular side wall 6920 cooperate to form a channel 6780 for receiving the air delivery tube 4170. The retaining wall 6930 projects radially outwardly from the annular side wall 6920 along a portion around the annular side wall (e.g., along a portion of the upper side of the annular side wall). A gap is provided in the annular side wall 6920 along a portion around the annular side wall to form a recess 6940 that leads to the channel 6780 (see FIGS. 9 and 18). This recess 6940 is adjacent to the retaining wall 6930 and is arranged counterclockwise from the retaining wall 6930. As described below, the configuration and arrangement of the recess 6940 and the retaining wall 6930 are such that a part of the dock connector 4600 of the air delivery tube 4170 moves to the rear side of the retaining wall 6930 when rotated clockwise after being inserted into the recess 6940, so that a lock engagement is made between the air delivery tube and the dock.

[0291] Additional retaining features and alignment features (e.g., recesses and / or grooves) are provided around the annular side wall 6920. These retaining features and alignment features (e.g., recesses and / or grooves) are structured and arranged to interact with corresponding features on the dock connector 4600 of the air delivery tube 4170 as described below during engagement.

[0292] As shown in FIG. 17, the electrical contact assembly 6950 is supported by a base 6910 adjacent to a retaining wall 6930. The contact assembly 6950 communicates with power and electrical signal transmission within a reservoir dock 6050 (e.g., PCBA 7600). As shown, the contact assembly 6950 includes a support member 6952 and a plurality of contacts (e.g., four contacts). According to this arrangement, when the air delivery tube 4170 rotates clockwise (so as to engage in a docked state), the contact assembly of the tube moves and contacts the assembly 6950, thereby enabling the replacement of the power supply, control, and RPT devices (e.g., PCBA 7600).

[0293] 5.8.2 Dock Connector As shown in FIGS. 9 - 11, the dock connector 4600 of the air delivery tube 4170 is structured to form a pneumatic connection with an intermediate component 6700 and to form a mechanical and electrical connection with a lock and contact assembly 6900 provided to the reservoir dock 6050.

[0294] In the illustrated example, the dock connector 4600 includes a tubular base portion 4640 and a lock and contact assembly 4660 provided to the base portion 4640.

[0295] 5.8.3 Direct Plug - in Connection and Intermediate Component Figures 23 to 36C show another example of an intermediate component 9700 for connecting the air delivery tube 4170 to the reservoir dock 6050 and the water reservoir 6100 according to one embodiment of the present technology. In this example, the intermediate component 9700 is removably coupled to the reservoir dock 6050. The intermediate component 9700 is configured to pneumatically connect the water reservoir 6100 to the air delivery tube 4170, thereby enabling a humidified pressurized air flow in the water reservoir 6100 to be delivered from the water reservoir 6100 to the air delivery tube 4170 via the intermediate component 9700. Also, in this example, the intermediate component 9700 is configured to mechanically connect to the air delivery tube 4170 to hold the air delivery tube 4170 in a position where it can be placed and released with respect to the reservoir dock 6050. Further, in this example, the air delivery tube 4170 is structured and arranged to form an electrical connection with the reservoir dock 6050, so that a power signal and a control signal are provided to the heating element and sensed data from a transducer associated with the air delivery tube 4170 is provided to the reservoir dock 6050.

[0296] Thus, in contrast to the example described above in connection with FIGS. 9 to 22 (where the dock connector 4600 is pneumatically sealed with the intermediate component 6700 and mechanically connected to the reservoir dock 6050), in the example of FIGS. 23 to 26, the dock connector 4600 of the air delivery tube 4170 forms both a pneumatic seal and a mechanical (lock) connection with the intermediate component 9700. By incorporating the pneumatic connection and the mechanical connection into one component, it becomes possible to improve dimensional tolerances, which may enable the dock connector 4600 to be made more reliable and easier to manufacture, and may also enable the size of the dock connector 4600 to be reduced.

[0297] Intermediate component As shown in FIGS. 23, 25, 26, and 25A, the intermediate component 9700 is a separate component provided at the dock outlet 6090 of the reservoir dock 6050, pneumatically connecting the water reservoir 6100 to the air delivery pipe 4170 and mechanically connecting the air delivery pipe 4170 to the reservoir dock 6050. In the illustrated example, by removably connecting the intermediate component 9700 to the reservoir dock 6050, the intermediate component 9700 can be disassembled for cleaning, sterilization, and / or replacement (e.g., for multi-patient multi-use (MPMU) applications).

[0298] As shown in FIGS. 26 and 29 - 33, the intermediate component 9700 includes a generally tubular body 9705 including an inlet end 9710 and an outlet end 9720. At the inlet end 9710 (FIG. 33), an inlet seal 9715 adapted to interface with the water reservoir 6100 and an outlet end 9720 adapted to interface with the air delivery pipe 4170 are provided. The tubular body 9705 also includes retaining features and alignment features. These retaining features and alignment features are structured and arranged to align the intermediate component 9700 with the reservoir dock 6050 and provide a non-rotatable removable connection with the reservoir dock 6050.

[0299] In addition, the tubular body 9705 includes a port 9730 in the form of an opening, for example, for communication with a sensor or transducer. This sensor or transducer measures sound propagating through the port 9730 and can be any type of microphone for a pressure sensor (e.g., based on resistive, capacitive, piezoelectric, optical, or other technologies). The port 9730 includes a port seal 9735 around the opening, thus providing a sealed interface between the intermediate component 9700 and the chassis opening 7380 (associated with the sensor) (see FIGS. 32 - 36C). Further, the intermediate component 9700 includes retaining features structured and arranged to provide a lock connection, but a removable connection, with the dock connector 4600 of the air delivery pipe 4170.

[0300] In the illustrated example (see, e.g., FIG. 33), the tubular body 9705 (including an inlet end 9710, an outlet end 9720, and retention and alignment features) includes a first portion or base mold constructed of a relatively rigid material (e.g., a thermoplastic polymer (e.g., PC, ABS)), and the inlet seal 9715 and the port seal 9735 include a second portion or overmold constructed of a relatively soft material (e.g., a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or silicone) provided on the first portion (e.g., by overmolding).

[0301] In the illustrated example, the inlet seal 9715 is disposed obliquely with respect to the outlet end 9720. For example, the axis of the opening in the inlet seal 9715 is disposed at about 90° with respect to the axis of the opening in the outlet end 9720 (see FIG. 32). However, it should be understood that other suitable angles are possible (e.g., the axis of the inlet seal 9715 is disposed at about 45° with respect to the axis of the outlet end 9720).

[0302] When the water reservoir 6100 is connected to the reservoir dock 6050, the inlet seal 9715 of the intermediate component 9700 is structured and arranged to engage and provide a face seal against a contact surface along the outlet end of the outlet tube 6130 (or outlet) of the water reservoir 6100. Such engagement seals the outlet flow path, enabling humidified air to flow out of the water reservoir 6100 and into the intermediate component 9700 for delivery to the air delivery tube 4170. As shown, the inlet seal 9715 may include a bellows-type arrangement that provides a level of disconnection between the intermediate component 9700 and the water reservoir 6100 by elastic compression. When the outlet cap muffler 4124 (FIG. 5B) is used in place of the water reservoir, a similar sealing engagement is provided between the inlet seal 9715 of the intermediate component 9700 and the opening of the outlet cap muffler.

[0303] In another embodiment, the seal between the outlet pipe 6130 (or outlet) of the water reservoir 6100 and the intermediate component 9700 may be an integral part of the outlet pipe 6130, or alternatively, a sealing portion independent of the outlet pipe 6130 or the intermediate component 9700.

[0304] The outlet end 9720 may include an ISO taper (e.g., an ISO taper with an outer diameter of 22 mm) for connection to the air delivery conduit 4170.

[0305] Regarding the retaining and alignment features for alignment and retention of the intermediate component 9700 with respect to the reservoir dock 6050, the intermediate component 9700 includes resilient pinch arms 9740 (i.e., cantilever spring arms). The spring or pinch arms 9740 may include barbs or tabs 9745 structured to provide a snap-fit connection with a locking member (e.g., a crossbar 9750 provided within a cavity of the reservoir dock 6050) (see FIGS. 27 and 36C). The intermediate component 9700 also includes guide rails 9760 (along the lower side of the intermediate component 9700) and guide ribs 9761 (along the front upper side of the intermediate component 9700). The guide rails 9760 and guide ribs 9761 are structured and arranged to assist in the proper alignment and insertion of the intermediate component 9700 into the reservoir dock 6050 by engagement with corresponding guide slots 9755 extending into the cavity of the reservoir dock 6050 (e.g., see FIGS. 27, 28B, and 30).

[0306] Furthermore, the intermediate component 9700 includes a flange 9770 disposed between an inlet end 9710 and an outlet end 9720. This flange 9770 aids in the placement or positioning of the intermediate component 9700 within the reservoir dock 6050 (by abutting against a wall provided in the reservoir dock 6050), for example, as shown in FIG. 28E, the flange functions as a stop during insertion. As shown in FIGS. 28D, 28E, and 33, by providing one or more bumpers 9775 (e.g., constructed of thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or silicone) on the flange 9770, the abutment against the reservoir dock opening during insertion is softened and vibrations during use are absorbed. In addition to minimizing vibrations of the intermediate component 9700, the flexibility of the bumper causes the barbed tab 9745 to be reliably pushed rearward by the spring force generated after the bumper is pressed, such that the tab always reliably engages the crossbar 9750 in a locked manner. As a result, the possibility of vibration and disengagement in the locked engagement between the barbed tab 9745 and the crossbar 9750 is minimized. In the illustrated example, a first bumper 9775 is provided on the upper side of the intermediate component 9700 and a second bumper 9775 is provided on the lower side of the intermediate component 9700 (see FIG. 28D). In the example, the bumper 9775 can be overmolded onto the tubular body 9705 together with the inlet seal 9715 and the port seal 9735 (see FIG. 33). The bumper 9775 can be part of the reason for the increased resistance received by the intermediate component at the location where the bumper engages each part of the reservoir dock opening in the later stage of the insertion step when the intermediate component 9700 is inserted into the tubular opening in the reservoir dock 6050.

[0307] Regarding the retaining feature that holds the dock connector 4600 of the air delivery tube 4170 to the intermediate component 9700, the intermediate component 9700 includes a partial annular sidewall 9790 (see FIG. 30). The partial annular sidewall 9790 protrudes outward from the flange 9770 along the outlet end 9720. As shown in FIG. 30, the outlet end 9720 and the partial annular sidewall 9790 cooperate to form an annular channel 9780 for receiving the air delivery tube 4170. The holes or recesses 9792 (FIG. 30) included in each of the two opposing sides of the partial annular sidewall 9790 are adapted to receive each retaining bump 4644 (FIG. 26) provided on the dock connector 4600 of the air delivery tube 4170 when engaged. In the illustrated example, by providing a gap within (along its upper side) the partial annular sidewall 9790, accommodation and facilitation of the electrical connection of the dock connector 4600 of the air delivery tube 4170 are achieved.

[0308] Also, in the intermediate component 9700, a lower tab 9795 (FIG. 30) is provided. This lower tab 9795 protrudes outward and downward from the partial annular sidewall 9790 along a part of the periphery of the partial annular sidewall 9790 (along its lower side). The lower tab 9795 can function as a finger or push tab to facilitate insertion of the intermediate component 9700 into the reservoir dock 6050 or withdrawal of the intermediate component 9700 from the reservoir dock 6050. Additionally, the lower tab 9795 can be configured and arranged to cover or conceal one or more fasteners (e.g., screws) or edges between the outer shroud and chassis components of the integrated RPT device and the humidifier 6000 (see FIGS. 23 and 26).

[0309] When the intermediate component 9700 is inserted into the dock opening 6091 of the reservoir dock 6050, the intermediate component 9700 is oriented to engage its guide rails 9760 and guide ribs 9761 with each guide slot 9755. Each guide slot 9755 correctly aligns and guides the intermediate component 9700 to the operating position (see, for example, FIG. 26). Also, by providing a non-circular profile in the dock opening 6091 and the partial annular side wall 9790 of the intermediate component 9700, the correct orientation of the intermediate component 9700 during insertion is facilitated. When the intermediate component 9700 reaches the operating position, the barbed end or tab 9745 of the spring or pinch arm 9740 is configured and arranged to engage below the crossbar 9750 (see, for example, FIGS. 25, 28F, and 28G). The barbed end 9745 and / or the crossbar 9750 may include a tapered portion that facilitates engagement with the operating position (see, for example, FIG. 28F). In an example, engagement between the spring or pinch arm 9740 and the crossbar 9750 (e.g., FIGS. 25, 28F, and 28G) may provide a tactile feedback (e.g., an audible click) indicating a correct connection. This snap-fit connection releasably secures the intermediate component 9700 to the reservoir dock 6050. As shown in FIGS. 28C and 28F, one side surface 9746 of the barbed end 9745 may be provided obliquely with respect to the opposite side surface of the barbed end 9745. When the chassis (e.g., the crossbar 9750) engages the angled surface 9746 of the barbed end 9745, the barbed end 9745 may be forced to flex as the portion of the chassis that engages the side surface 9746 extends and passes through the side surface 9746 during insertion of the intermediate component 9700. To disengage the intermediate component 9700, the spring or pinch arm 9740 may be manually pressed (e.g., using a tool or without using a tool) towards the rear of the reservoir dock 6050. Such pressure may cause the spring or pinch arm 9740 and the barbed end 9745 to elastically flex and move to the unlocked position (i.e., in this position, the barbed end 9745 is disengaged from the crossbar 9750, allowing the intermediate component 9700 to be removed from the reservoir dock 6050).In some examples, the groove 9747 (see, e.g., FIGS. 28G and 29) that may be included in the barbed end 9745 allows an instrument (e.g., a minus screwdriver) to grip the barbed end 9745 to disengage the barbed end 9745 from the reservoir dock 6050.

[0310] As shown in FIGS. 28C and 28G, the pinch arm 9740 may be provided obliquely with respect to the central axis of the tubular body 9705. The pinch arm 9740 may be angled such that the angle between the axis at the opening of the inlet end 9710 and the pinch arm 9740 is less than 90°. The angled pinch arm 9740 may allow for an increase in retention as compared to a pinch arm 9740 that is not angled with respect to the central axis of the tubular body 9705.

[0311] After the intermediate component 9700 is inserted and locked into the dock opening 6091 of the reservoir dock 6050, the cooperation of the retention features and alignment features provided by the intermediate component 9700 / reservoir dock 6050 allows for a removable non-rotatable connection of the intermediate component 9700 to the dock exit 6090 of the reservoir dock 6050. Also, after connection, by engaging the spring or pinch arm 9740 of the intermediate component 9700 in a locked manner within the cavity of the reservoir dock 6050, a situation where the intermediate component 9700 becomes disengaged is avoided, for example, when the water reservoir 6100 is received within the reservoir dock 6050.

[0312] When the intermediate component 9700 is connected to the dock exit 6090 of the reservoir dock 6050, its inlet seal 9715 projects into the cavity of the reservoir dock 6050 to enable engagement with the outlet pipe 6130 (or outlet) of the water reservoir 6100 (see FIG. 25). Similarly, the outlet end 9720, together with the partial annular sidewall 9790 and its hole 9792, extends into and / or projects from the cavity of the reservoir dock 6050 to enable engagement with the air delivery pipe 4170 (see, for example, FIGS. 23 and 28A). Further, the port 9730 and its port seal 9735 are oriented to interface (e.g., upward as shown in FIGS. 34B and 35B) with the chassis opening 7380 associated with the sensor.

[0313] 5.8.4 Sound Propagation in Intermediate Components As described above, the intermediate component 9700 facilitates the connection between the conduit of the air circuit 4170 and the RPT device (e.g., the reservoir dock 6050 and / or the water reservoir 6100). The intermediate component 9700 according to an aspect of the present technology includes a port 9730 (e.g., a sound port) that facilitates sound propagation from the intermediate component 9700 to a sensor 4270 (e.g., a microphone) disposed within the RPT device. The sensor 4270 can be externally attached to the intermediate component 9700. While externally attached, the sensor 4270 may be disposed outside the intermediate component 9700 and / or the port 9730, or may be (e.g., entirely or partially inserted) inside the intermediate component 9700 and / or the port 9730. Thus, sound that can reach the intermediate component 9700 from any part of the patient interface 300, the RPT device 400, the humidifier 500, and / or the air circuit 4170 can be sent to a sensor 4270 (e.g., a microphone) disposed within the RPT device. As described in more detail below, by analyzing the sensed sound, the characteristic parts of each part (e.g., the air circuit 4170) that is the sound source and / or the characteristic parts inside thereof can be determined. The structure and dimensions of the intermediate component 9700 are configured to improve sound propagation inside the intermediate component 9700 and sound propagation to the port 9730. Variations of the intermediate body are discussed here (6700 and 9700). For example, the intermediate component 6700 shown in FIGS. 19 to 22 included an electrical connection via a secondary body (e.g., the lock and contact assembly 6900) and a non-circular membrane. However, 6700 and 9700, which are variations of the intermediate body, behave in a similar manner for the purpose of sound propagation design.

[0314] As shown in FIGS. 28C, 29, and 31 to 36C, the intermediate component 9700 includes a port 9730 that promotes the propagation of a portion of the sound propagating in the air flow path in the sensor 4270. Specifically, the port 9730 allows a portion of the sound in the air flow path to be sent by the intermediate component 9700 through the port 9730, through the corresponding chassis opening 7380 in the chassis, and to the sensor 4270 (e.g., a microphone (see FIG. 37) disposed within the chassis). The chassis opening 7380 may be provided in a part of the chassis that forms a water reservoir dock (e.g., reservoir dock 6050) that receives the humidification tank. Thus, the chassis opening 7380 may correspond to an opening in the water reservoir dock. In other examples, the chassis opening 7380 may be provided in another part of the chassis. For example, the chassis opening 7380 may be provided in a part of the chassis 7300 that is a component different from the water reservoir dock. As shown in FIGS. 32 and 33, the port 9730 includes an opening within the wall of the intermediate component 9700 and is disposed in the vicinity of the inlet end 9710. The axis associated with the port 9730 (e.g., an axis generally transverse to the plane in which the port opening extends) may be disposed at approximately 90° with respect to the axis of the opening at the outlet end 9720 and / or at approximately 90° with respect to the axis of the opening at the inlet end 9710 (see FIGS. 26, 28C, and 36C).

[0315] The size of the port can be selected based on the parameters of the sound signal to be detected. These can be sound signals directly generated by any of the components in the RPT system (e.g., RPT device, humidifier, air circuit, and patient interface) and / or sound signals generated at one location and propagated to a specific target component and reflected from that component. The size of the cavity that the sound reaches after moving from the intermediate component 9700 and passing through the port 9730 is also important. In one example, such a cavity can be formed by the wall of the intermediate component 9700 and the PCBA 7600 that supports the sensor 4270, as schematically shown in FIG. 37. Increasing the size of the port 9730 can introduce spatial averaging and reduce spatial resolution, but the sound signal reaching the sensor can increase and the signal-to-noise ratio can improve. If the signal-to-noise ratio is adequately appropriate, a smaller-sized port may be preferably used to retain higher-resolution signal information (e.g., related to sound reflected from smaller geometric features). Due to the larger port 9730 and the large adjacent cavity formed by the port, it can lead to a break in the cross-sectional area of the flow path or acoustic impedance within the intermediate component and an interruption in signal propagation. Reducing external noise (e.g., noise from vibrations in the PCBA 7600 that supports the sensor 4270) can reduce the port aperture and can lead to an improvement in spatial resolution and a reduction in signal interruption.

[0316] According to one form of the present technology, the size of the port can be configured to be large enough to enable an appropriate target signal level for the sensor 4270 disposed outside the intermediate component 9700 and not so large as to compromise the spatial resolution of the signal path through the intermediate component 9700 and / or the waveguide properties to an unacceptable level. According to one form of the present technology, the cross-section of the port 9730 can be 2 from 0.75 to 180 mm. For example, in one form of the present technology, the port 9730 is rounded and can have a diameter of 1 mm to 15 mm.

[0317] According to one embodiment of the present technology shown in FIGS. 34 and 35, port 9730 is covered by a thin silicone membrane 9732. Membrane 9732 is intended to keep the sensor isolated from the air flow while transmitting sound propagation along the air path (air flow) to the sensor. For this reason, the membrane may be permeable to sound, but preferably impermeable to liquids and / or gases. Due to this arrangement, when the intermediate component 9700 is removed or decontaminated (or any other component is in the air path or fluidly connected to the air path but arranged to allow sound transmission to a shielded sensor located outside the air path), the sensor is not exposed to contaminants because it was not provided in the air path, so there is no need to remove and clean the sensor itself. In some examples, membrane 9732 is made as large in diameter (or other cross-sectional dimension) as possible and as thin as possible. Such dimensions increase the amount of target signal (directly generated noise or reflected noise) transmitted across the membrane. In some examples, the thickness of membrane 9732 can be 0.05 - 3 mm; or 0.1 - 1 mm; or 0.1 - 0.3 mm, and the diameter can be 1 - 15 mm. In some examples, the thickness of membrane 9732 can be 0.1 - 0.2 mm, and the diameter can be 1 - 15 mm. In some examples, the thickness of membrane 9732 can be about 0.2 mm, the diameter can be 1 - 15 mm, and in one example the diameter can be about 8 mm. These exemplary dimensions allow sound to move sufficiently across membrane 9732 while at the same time limiting the leakage of sound signals across the wall of the intermediate component 9700 (where the membrane is attached). In some examples, the membrane can be provided to be planar with the inner surface of the intermediate component 9700. Membrane 9732 may be formed as one integral component with port seal 9735, or may be provided separately from port seal 9735. Membrane 9732 may or may not be in mechanical contact with port seal 9735. In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 34 and 35, membrane 9732 is formed as one integral component with port seal 9735.

[0318] According to one aspect of the present technology, port 9730 may be provided without membrane 9732 and / or port seal 9737. As described above, one advantage of providing membrane 9732 is that it avoids the entry of air from intermediate components into the chassis, thereby separating the electronic components on the PCBA from the air stream gas. This avoids the situation where humidified and / or contaminated air enters the microphone chamber, protecting the electronic device from moisture or contaminated air (e.g., those containing body fluids such as mucus). From the perspective of treatment results, it is desirable to control leakage during the provision of PAP treatment. The presence of the membrane reduces unintended leakage from the system. An arrangement configuration where port 9730 is provided without membrane 9732 is also possible. In this case, by introducing the high-pressure outflow inside the chassis, the situation where air enters the chassis from intermediate component 9700 can be avoided. Alternatively, a capsule-type sensor may be introduced into the air path. In this case, the sensor can be capsule-type (e.g., encapsulated in a membrane of silicone, rubber, or another material to transmit sound vibrations internally and at the same time be contamination-removable (e.g., washable)). Such a sensor can be a permanent part of intermediate component 9700, or can be provided in the air path or fluid-connected to the air path and can be any other component that is the mounting location of the sensor. Since the sensor is capsule-type, it can be removed and washed together with each intermediate component. In this case, the electrical terminals of the sensor need to be arranged for disconnection and reconnection during the disassembly / assembly process.

[0319] However, apart from the restriction of air movement, using the membrane 9732 can provide other benefits (e.g., infection control and avoidance of damage to the circuit mechanism of the PCBA 7600). When the membrane 9732 is used, it may be beneficial to make the membrane as flexible and lightweight as possible for transmitting a wide range of signal frequencies. According to one form of the present technology, suitable mass and stiffness can be determined by the density and dimensions of the membrane 9732 and the pressure gradient across the membrane. According to one form of the present technology, when the diameter of the port 9730 is 5 mm and the thickness is within the range of 0.1 - 0.4 mm or approximately 0.3 mm, a reasonable compromise can be obtained between sufficient thickness to avoid structural damage and thinness enough to allow appropriate sound transmission.

[0320] In the examples of the port 9730 shown in FIGS. 34A - 35D, a port seal 9735 according to various examples of the present technology is provided. The surrounding sealing formation part (ridge or lip) provided by the port seal 9735 may be part of the membrane 9732 or may be provided separately from the membrane 9732. The radial seal that may be included in the surrounding sealing formation part is configured to engage (e.g., as an end face seal) and elastically deform around the chassis opening 7380 with respect to the surface of the chassis above the intermediate component 9700.

[0321] The port seal 9735 can surround the port 9730 and can project beyond the port 9730. As shown in FIGS. 34A - 35D, the port seal 9735 projects from the port 9730 above the outer surface of the intermediate component 9700. In use, when the intermediate component 9700 is inserted into the operating location, the port 9730 can be aligned with the chassis opening 7380, thereby providing a sealed path for sound signals (from the intermediate component 9700 through the port 9730 and the membrane 9732 and through the chassis opening 7380), and the sensor 4270 is positioned on the opposite side of the chassis opening 7380.

[0322] The central axis of port 9730 in the intermediate component 9700 can generally be aligned with the central axis of the chassis opening 7380 on the first side of the chassis opening 7380 (see FIGS. 35A-36C), and the sensor 4270 can be provided on the second side of the chassis opening 7380. The sensor 4270 can generally be aligned with the central axis of the port 9730 and / or the chassis opening 7380. The axis of the port 9730, the axis of the chassis opening 7380, and the sensor 4270 can generally be aligned, and in the operating configuration, the distance between any two of these can be less than 5 mm, preferably less than 4 mm, more preferably less than 3 mm, still more preferably less than 2 mm, and most preferably less than 1 mm.

[0323] As described above in the foregoing text, when the intermediate component 9700 is assembled (by insertion of the intermediate component 9700 into the dock opening 6091 of the reservoir dock 6050 of the intermediate component 9700), the port seal 9735 is brought into contact with the periphery of the chassis opening 7380. Since the port seal 9735 contacts the peripheries of both the intermediate component 9700 and the chassis opening 7380, when the intermediate component 9700 is assembled, the peripheries of both the port 9730 and the chassis opening 7380 are sealed by the port seal 9735. Thereby, the situation where the sound signal transmitted through the thin film 9732 escapes laterally into the space between the intermediate component wall and the chassis wall is minimized. In addition to avoiding the situation where sound from the sealed sound path leaks laterally into the space 9743 between the wall of the intermediate component 9700 and the wall of the chassis, the peripheral lip of the port seal 9735 also avoids the entry of external noise into the sealed signal path.

[0324] Figures 34A - 34D illustrate an example of a port seal 9735. The port seal 9735 provides a compression seal against the chassis wall using a bulge according to an example of the present technology. Figures 34B and 34C are cross - sectional views of examples of the bulge without compression. Figure 34D shows the bulge being compressed by the wall of the chassis 7300. The overmold that may be included in the port seal 9735 to provide the compression seal is constructed of a relatively soft material (e.g., thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or silicone) and is provided to an intermediate component 9700 (e.g., by overmolding). The port seal 9735 may extend from and / or include a membrane 9732. The membrane 9732 is provided along the inner wall of the port 9730 at or near the inner surface of the intermediate component 9700 and protrudes from the port 9730 above the outer surface 9707 of the intermediate component 9700 (e.g., near the edge of the port 9730). The portion of the port seal 9735 that protrudes above the outer surface of the intermediate component 9700 may include a bulge seal 9737. The bulge seal 9737 provides a spherical sealing contact between the port seal 9735 and the chassis during use. In some examples, one or more additional bulge seals (e.g., arranged concentrically) may be provided around the bulge seal 9737.

[0325] The cross-section of the raised seal 9737 above the outer surface of the intermediate component 9700 is rounded and can extend a predetermined distance D4 in the outward direction from around the port 9730 (see FIG. 34C), and then is joined to the surface that is the upper surface of the intermediate component wall or an extension thereof. D4 can be 1.2 to 2.8 mm, 1.8 to 2.2 mm, or approximately 2 mm. The sides of the raised seal 9737 can be sloped away from the rounded upper part on either side. The slope in the direction approaching the center of the port 9730 can be steeper than the slope in the direction away from the port 9730. The portion of the raised seal 9737 that extends in the outward direction from around the port 9730 can be provided at an angle A1 with respect to the outer surface of the intermediate component 9700. The angle A1 is 10 to 35 degrees, in some examples is an angle of 20 to 25 degrees, and in some examples is an angle of 22 degrees. The portion of the raised seal 9737 that extends outward can extend obliquely outward and can terminate at the upper surface of the intermediate component 9700 (which can correspond to the edge of the port 9730 or a surface adjacent to another outer surface of the intermediate component 9700).

[0326] In some examples, one or more connection portions 9739 (see FIG. 34C) that can be included in the port seal 9735 are adjacent to the raised seal 9737. The raised seal 9737 extends in one or more directions and / or connects to other features (such as the bumper 9775 and / or the inlet seal 9715 (see FIG. 34A)). The upper surface of the one or more connection portions 9739 can be at the same height as a portion of the outer surface of the intermediate component 9700. In one example, the connection portion 9739 can extend surrounding the entire perimeter of the raised seal 9737. The raised seal 9737 can extend above the surface of the connection portion 9739 by a predetermined distance D1 (see FIG. 34C) in the upward direction. The predetermined distance D1 can be 0.4 to 0.8 mm or approximately 0.6 mm.

[0327] In use, the upper portion of the raised seal 9737 above the outer surface of the intermediate component 9700 can be compressed at a predetermined distance D2 relative to the chassis and then bottom out. In some examples, the material of the port seal 9735 above the outer surface 9707 of the intermediate component 9700 (e.g., in the vicinity of the edge of the port 9730) can be configured to compress approximately 20 - 40% of its height and in some examples approximately 30% of its height. In some examples, the port seal 9735 can extend upward from the outer surface 9707 of the intermediate component 9700 (e.g., in the vicinity of the edge of the port 9730) by a predetermined distance D3 (see FIG. 34C). The distance D3 can be 1 - 1.5 mm, 1.2 - 1.3 mm, or approximately 1.24 mm. In some examples, the nominal seal tightening allowance (a measure of seal deformation under compression and which can correspond to D2) can be 0.09 mm - 0.59 mm, 0.15 mm - 0.5 mm, or approximately 0.34 mm.

[0328] By making the contact of the raised seal 9737 a compression type and a spherical sealing contact, it may be possible to accurately position the intermediate component 9700 in place when the intermediate component 9700 reaches its operating position during assembly, and / or a situation where the intermediate component 9700 is disassembled without a significant external force can be avoided. In some examples, due to the compression of the port seal 9735, even when the engagement between the barbed end 9745 and the crossbar 9750 is disengaged, the intermediate component 9700 can be maintained in place, which can facilitate the operation of removing the intermediate component 9700 from the reservoir dock 6050.

[0329] According to the example of the port seal 9735 shown in FIGS. 35A to 35D, a lip seal according to another example of the present technology is provided. FIGS. 35B and 35C show an example of a lip seal without compression (for example, not pressed against the chassis 7300), and FIG. 34D shows how the lip seal is compressed by the chassis 7300. The port seal 9735 that provides the lip seal may include an overmold constructed of a relatively soft material (such as a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or silicone) provided (such as by overmolding) to the intermediate component 9700. As shown in FIGS. 35A to 35D, the port seal 9735 may extend from and / or include the membrane 9732. The membrane 9732 is provided to line the inner surface of the port 9730 along the inner wall of the port 9730 in or near the inner surface of the intermediate component 9700, and may protrude from the port 9730 above the outer surface 9707 of the intermediate component 9700 (for example, near the edge of the port 9730). The portion of the port seal 9735 that protrudes above the outer surface of the intermediate component 9700 may include a lip seal 9742. The lip seal 9742 provides a spherical sealing contact between the port seal 9735 and the chassis during use. In some examples, one or more additional lip seals may be provided around the lip seal 9742.

[0330] The cross-section of the lip seal 9742 above the outer surface of the intermediate component 9700 can be aligned with the inner surface of the port 9730 and / or can provide a lip that extends concentrically to the center of the port 9730 around the port 9730. In some examples, the lip can be provided at a predetermined angle A2 (see FIG. 35C) with respect to the upper outer surface of the intermediate component 9700. The angle A2 can be 10 to 35 degrees, 15 to 25 degrees and / or about 20 degrees. The lip seal 9742 can extend a predetermined distance D5 (see FIG. 35C) from the lower surface of the intermediate component 9700 in the upward direction. The distance D5 can be approximately 1.3 to 1.7 mm, 1.4 to 1.6 mm or 1.56 mm. The thickness T1 (see FIG. 35C) of the lip seal 9742 can be approximately 0.2 to 0.6 mm, 0.35 to 0.45 mm or 0.4 mm. In some examples, the end of the lip seal 9742 extending above the port 9730 is rounded. The dimensions of the lip seal 9742 and / or the angle at which the lip seal 9742 is provided can be selected for improving the acoustic seal and / or reducing the bulging of the lip seal during use. In some examples, the lip can extend directly upward or can be provided obliquely in a direction away from the center of the port 9730.

[0331] The lip seal 9742 can extend at a predetermined angle A2 a predetermined distance D8 (see FIG. 35C) from the edge of the port 9730. The predetermined distance D8 can be limited by the edge where the upper surface of the lip seal 9742 joins the surface or joins the extension of the surface of the intermediate component 9700. The distance D8 can be in the range of 0.1 to 3.5 mm, in the range of 0.15 to 3 mm or approximately 2 mm.

[0332] In some examples, one or more connections 9739 that may be included in the port seal 9735 are adjacent to the lip seal 9742 and extend in one or more directions and / or connect to other features (e.g., bumper 9775 and / or inlet seal 9715 (see FIG. 35A)). The upper surface of the one or more connections 9739 may be at the same height as a portion of the outer surface of the intermediate component 9700. In one example, the connection may extend around the entire circular perimeter of the lip seal 9742. The lip seal 9742 may extend a predetermined distance D6 (see FIG. 35C) from the upper surface of the intermediate component 9700 in an upward direction, and this distance D6 is 0.4 to 0.8 mm or approximately 0.66 mm above the surface of the connection 9739.

[0333] In use, the portion of the lip seal 9742 above the outer surface of the intermediate component 9700 may be compressed and / or deflected relative to the chassis in a direction approaching the port 9730. In some examples, the lip seal 9742 may be deflected a predetermined distance D7 (see FIG. 35C) and then bottom out. This distance D7 is 0.1 to 0.6 mm or 0.15 to 0.41 mm. In some examples, the nominal seal compression of the lip seal 9742 may be approximately 0.41 mm, the minimum seal compression may be approximately 0.15 mm, and / or the maximum seal compression may be approximately 0.66 mm.

[0334] The lip seal 9742 may assist in holding the intermediate component 9700 in a predetermined position when the intermediate component 9700 reaches the operating position during assembly and / or may prevent the intermediate component 9700 from being disassembled in the absence of a significant external force.

[0335] Two types of seal formations have been disclosed above. In providing a compression seal with the raised seal 9737 by the port seal 9735 (see FIGS. 34A - 34D), the cross - section of the seal formation protruding above the surface of the intermediate component 9700 is larger and more rounded than the lip seal 9742. Due to the mass of the raised seal 9737, the compression of the raised seal 9737 can be made easier, which can lead to a reduction in friction when the intermediate component 9700 is inserted inside the chassis. In another example of a lip seal (FIGS. 34A - 34D), the portion of the lip seal 9742 protruding above the surface of the intermediate component 9700 is a thin lip, which can exhibit limited bending and flexibility when compressed. The lip seal 9742 can generate a significant amount of friction between the intermediate component 9700 and the surrounding chassis wall when the intermediate component 9700 is inserted inside the chassis 7300.

[0336] As described above, by the raised seal 9737 or the lip seal 9742, the sealed signal path is sound - insulated from the remaining space 9743 between the intermediate component 9700 and the chassis 7300. When the intermediate component 9700 is positioned inside the chassis 7300 for use, the distance between the chassis 7300 and the surface of the intermediate component 9700 or the connection part 9739 defines the space 9743 (see FIG. 35C) and can be 0.15 - 0.4 mm, 0.2 - 0.3 mm, or 0.25 mm.

[0337] In some examples of the present technology, the port seal 9735 can be provided on the surface of the chassis 7300. In this example, the port seal 9735 can be provided on the chassis 7300 instead of on the intermediate component 9700. The port seal 9735 can be provided to be within the chassis opening 7380. The surrounding seal formation (raised or lip) that can be included in the port seal 9735 in the chassis opening 7380 is configured to engage and elastically deform against the surface of the intermediate component below the chassis opening 7380 (e.g., as an end - face seal) and around the port 9730.

[0338] The inner feature of the intermediate component 9700 results in the propagation of sound waves (e.g., reflection, refraction, and / or attenuation) inside the intermediate component 9700 and to the port 9730. The inner feature of the intermediate component 9700 provided by an example of the present technology assists in the conveyance of a useful reflection signal from the air circuit 4170 (e.g., a tube and / or a mask) to the sensor 4270 via the port 9730.

[0339] As shown in the figure, the air path between the inlet end and the outlet end of the intermediate component 9700 is non-linear and includes at least one turn. According to one form of the present technology, for proper propagation within the intermediate component 9700, the inner corners of the intermediate component 9700 are made curved. In some examples, at least one of these turns closest to the port may be made curved. In an example of the present technology, all of the inner corners of the intermediate component 9700 are made curved. When the corners are sharp (e.g., at a 90° angle), the overall sound level may increase due to the turbulent flow caused by the sharp corners, and the level and quality of the sound signal may deteriorate. Applying curvature to the corners (e.g., the outer corner 9714, especially the inner corner 9712) can improve the quality of the sound signal.

[0340] FIG. 28C shows a cross-section of the intermediate component 9700 according to an example of the present technology. As shown in FIG. 28C, the outer corner 9714 and / or the inner corner 9712 formed between the body of the intermediate component 9700 and the inlet seal 9715 are made curved. In some examples, the inlet seal 9715 at the inlet end 9710 (see FIG. 32) may be arranged obliquely with respect to the outlet end 9720 and / or the body of the intermediate component 9700. This angle can be approximately 90° or exceed 90°.

[0341] In some examples, the radius of curvature formed by the inner corner 9712 can be 0.2 mm to 6.5 mm, 0.3 mm to 4 mm, 0.4 mm to 3 mm (e.g., 0.4 mm or 2 mm), but this range may also be, for example, 1.5 to 6.5 mm (2.5 to 5 mm).

[0342] The curved corner (e.g., the inner corner 9712) can be provided as part of one or more seal bellows of the inlet seal 9715. As shown in FIG. 28C, the seal bellows of the inlet seal 9715 can include an inner surface 9712B and an outer surface 9712C. The curvature of the inner surface 9712B can determine the mode of sound propagation inside the intermediate component 9700. The radius of the outer surface 9712C can be approximately 0.2 - 0.6 mm or 0.4 mm. The radius of the inner surface 9712B can be approximately 1.5 - 6.5 mm, 2.5 - 5 mm or 2 mm. In some examples, the radius of the outer surface can be 0.4 mm and the radius of the inner surface can be 2 mm. In some examples of the present technology, the outer radius can be less than the radius of the inner radius. In some examples, the span 9712D between the opposing side portions of the seal bellows in the intermediate component 9700 can be less than or equal to twice the inner radius.

[0343] Although the ports 9730 and port seals 9735 have been described above with reference to the intermediate component 9700, one or more features of the ports 9730 and port seals 9735 can be provided within the intermediate component 6700, within a part of a conduit in the air circuit 4170, or within the dock connector 4600 (e.g., instead of the port 6730 shown in FIG. 22).

[0344] 5.8.5 Features for reducing the friction of seal insertion in the intermediate component According to the arrangement of the intermediate component 9700 and the dock outlet 6090 of the RPT device 6000, for most of the path length where the intermediate component 9700 is inserted into the dock outlet 6090, this path is slightly wider than the diameter of the intermediate component 9700 and the port seal 9735 (e.g., the silicone bulge or lip of the port seal 9735) is made not to interact with the path wall. Thereby, the insertion of the intermediate component 9700 into the dock outlet 6090 is reliably performed with relatively little friction. In some examples of the present technology, the upward positioning of the bottom of the chassis path and / or the downward extension at the lower part of the intermediate component can be configured to push the intermediate component 9700 upward (with respect to the direction of the initial movement of the intermediate component 9700). In this example, this is done just before the intermediate component 9700 is locked in the operating position (e.g., via the pinch arm 9740). Due to the upward pressure, the port seal 9735 (e.g., the silicone peripheral lip) moves to engage with the chassis, and the periphery of the chassis opening 7380 is sealed.

[0345] In some examples, only at the extreme end of the path, just before the intermediate component 9700 is fully locked into the operating position, due to the upward positioning of the bottom of the path, the intermediate component 9700 can be pushed upward and configured into the operating configuration. In this example, due to the specific structures of the port seal 9735, the intermediate component 9700, and the chassis opening 7380, when the user inserts the intermediate component 9700 into the chassis opening 7380, the user experiences an increased resistance at the extreme end of the insertion path. This resistance can occur where a smaller diameter opening is provided in the intermediate component 9700 (one or more features of the intermediate component (e.g., the bumper)), resulting in additional friction between the bulge or lip of the port seal 9735 and the chassis wall.

[0346] Figures 36A - 36C show a sequence of events in a particular order when an intermediate component 9700 is inserted into a receiving - side reservoir dock 6050 (e.g., the dock exit 6090 of the reservoir dock 6050) according to an example of the present technology. As shown in the illustration, in a particular illustrated example, both the intermediate component and the receiving - side opening are generally tubular in shape. The intermediate component 9700 includes a guide rail 9760 (FIG. 36B) (along the lower side of the intermediate component 9700) and a guide rib 9761 (FIG. 36B) (along the front upper side of the intermediate component 9700). The guide rail 9760 and the guide rib 9761 are structured and arranged to assist in the proper alignment and insertion of the intermediate component 9700 into the reservoir dock 6050 by engagement with corresponding guide slots 9755 that extend into the cavity of the reservoir dock 6050. When the intermediate component 9700 is inserted into the reservoir dock 6050, the guide rail 9760 and / or the guide rib 9761 travel through the chassis guide slots 9755 (shown in FIGS. 28B, 28D, and 28E). As shown in FIG. 36A and as described in the above text, when the intermediate component 9700 is initially inserted into the reservoir dock 6050, a clearance is provided between the port seal 9735 (e.g., the silicone bulge or lip of the port seal 9735) and the chassis. The clearance between the port seal 9735 and the chassis 7300 provides a reduction in the assembly force of the intermediate component 9700 and / or a reduction and / or avoidance of excessive deformation of the port seal 9735.

[0347] Figure 36B shows the start of the engagement between the intermediate component 9700 and each opening of the receiving-side reservoir dock 6050 at one or more (in this case, three) engagement formation points L1, L2, and L3 (see Figure 36C for engagement formation points L1 - L3). At the locations marked by each of these points, while the intermediate component 9700 is advancing in the direction of full engagement with the dock opening, the structural features of the intermediate component 9700 (e.g., guide rails, ribs, or bumpers) engage with each engagement feature of the dock opening (e.g., the lower edge of the arm 9740 engages with the inclined ridge 9757 at L1, and the edge of the guide rail 9760 engages with the upper part of the guide slot 9755 at L2, etc.). The engagement at these points can be performed simultaneously or sequentially and is aimed at guiding the intermediate component 9700 into a fully engaged configuration. In this configuration, the barbed end 9745 is securely locked to each flange / dock opening on the chassis, and the port 9730 is sealed reliably by the port seal 9735. As a result, according to an example of the present technology, the port seal 9735 (e.g., the silicone ridge or lip of the port seal 9735) also begins to engage with the chassis 7300. As shown in Figures 36A and 35B, after the edge of the port 9730 passes through the central axis and / or the edge of the chassis opening 7380, the port seal 9735 begins to engage with the chassis 7300. The snap-fit connection of the intermediate component 9700 (provided, for example, by the spring or pinch arm 9740 of the barbed end or tab 9745) can slide upward over the inclined ridge 9757 provided inside the lower part of the chassis, and then the snap-fit connection is made. When the snap-fit connection slides upward (guided by an upward path provided at one or more of the three engagement formation points L1 - L3), the port seal 9735 begins to engage with the chassis adjacent to the chassis opening 7380. After sliding the inclined ridge 9757 upward, the snap-fit connection can move further by a predetermined distance (e.g., 1 mm) and then fully engages with the snap. The inclined ridge 9757 can be provided at an angle of 15 - 25 degrees, 18 - 22 degrees, or 20 degrees.In one example, the angled ridge 9757 can be provided at an angle of approximately 20 degrees and extend over a predetermined distance D9. The distance D9 can be 1.5 - 2.5, 1.8 - 2.2 mm or 2 mm.

[0348] Figure 36C shows, according to an example of the present technology, the port seal 9735 (e.g., the silicone ridge or lip of the port seal 9735) engaged with the chassis in the fully assembled position. One or more features in the intermediate component 9700 and / or the chassis opening can be configured to effect the engagement of these two components by pushing the intermediate component 9700 upward into the chassis opening 7380 and / or ensuring a reliable engagement and acoustic seal in the fully assembled configuration. For example, the compression engagement of the port seal 9735 can be effected and / or controlled by one or more of the following: one or both of the lower edges of the arm 9740 and / or the angled ridge 9757 at the cantilever snap fit location (L1), where the edge of the guide rail 9760 engages the upper portion (L2) of the guide slot 9755 (raising the intermediate component and minimizing rocking movement), and / or interacting and / or engaging with the corresponding portion of the chassis that engages the lower tab 9795 at location (L3) and / or a tab or flange that extends inwardly (upwardly) with a tab or flange that extends outwardly / below the lower tab 9795. The engagement of each element at locations L1, L2, and L3 can occur substantially simultaneously or sequentially. There is no particularly preferred order as long as an effective final engagement can be achieved.

[0349] Additionally or alternatively, all of the aforementioned bumpers 9775 (which can also be considered engagement forming portions or engagement features) can partially form an increased resistance in the later stages of the insertion step by one or more of the above-described engagements at locations L1 - L3. However, these engagement forming portions can be part of an arrangement that guides the intermediate component into a sealed engagement with the opening of the water reservoir and the final operating configuration.

[0350] As shown in FIG. 36C, the location of the widened portion of the guide rail 9760 at the chassis location (L2) may correspond vertically to the location of the edge of the port 9730, the edge of the port seal 9735 and / or the bulge or lip of the port seal 9735. By the engagement at point L2 between the guide rail 9760 and each engagement forming portion on the opposite side, the intermediate component is lifted vertically into the chassis opening 7380, and a seal is provided between the port seal 9735 and the surface of the chassis around the chassis opening. In other examples, the location of the engagement forming point L2 may be provided closer to the dock opening and may correspond to the central axis of the chassis opening 7380 (not shown in FIG. 36C).

[0351] When a combination of support engagements at at least one of the above-described engagement forming points is combined with the support engagement provided by the port seal between the intermediate component 9700 and the reservoir dock 6050, it is configured to suppress the forced movement of the intermediate component 9700 and thus the breakage of the port sealing arrangement configuration in the absence of significant external forces. A single engagement point (e.g., L1 or L2 in FIG. 36C) may be sufficient for stable engagement, but due to the large forces that may be applied to the intermediate component during use (due to pulling of the tube by the user), using more than one engagement forming point (e.g., all three points L1, L2 and L3 shown in FIG. 36C) may be advantageous in improving the mechanical stability of the arrangement configuration. By providing a plurality of engagement points (in this case, leading to the high positioning of the intermediate component or at least a part thereof), even when the patient applies pressure to the arrangement configuration (and thus the intermediate component 9700) by pulling the tube during treatment, ensuring a robust and consistent seal at 9730 can be assisted. Further, the robust support of the intermediate component makes it easier to attach and detach the attached tube to and from the intermediate component.

[0352] Due to the closed configuration, the specific structure of the intermediate component 9700, and the receiving-side opening, the user encounters a certain resistance only at the end of the insertion path when inserting the intermediate component 9700 into the chassis opening. This is where, at the end of the insertion path, the intermediate component 9700 encounters an opening with a smaller diameter (brought about by the high-position engagement points L1 - L3). By minimizing such friction, the insertion of the intermediate component into the dock outlet 6090 of the reservoir dock 6050 becomes easier. Additionally, the described process of guided insertion and the flexible port seal enable insertion and sealing with relatively high mechanical tolerances, and also reduce the possibility of damage to the membrane 9732 and / or the port seal 9735.

[0353] In FIGS. 36A - 36C, the formation of the engagement (high-position in the illustrated example) at points L1 - L3 is generally part of the reservoir dock opening that receives the intermediate component. However, one or more of these can be formed as part of the intermediate component or as part of a third element.

[0354] In the example shown in FIGS. 36A - 36C, the intermediate component 9700 at the end of its insertion path is positioned high and is in a sealed engagement with the chassis opening by the port seal 9735. Examples of the present technology include the execution of similar acoustic transmission type engagements without the assistance of the port seal 9735 and / or the membrane 9732. In these examples, when the high position of the intermediate component 9700 changes, the port 9730 of the intermediate component 9700 and the chassis opening 7380 can come closer or even abut. In some examples of the present technology, by positioning the surfaces near the port 9730 of the intermediate component 9700 and / or the surface of the chassis 7300 near the chassis opening 7380, an engagement by proximity or abutment can be provided.

[0355] As described above, the functions of the three engagement points L1 to L3 are as follows: (a) raising and moving the intermediate component 9700 to engage it in a sealed manner with the chassis opening 7380; and / or (b) locking the intermediate component 9700 in the engagement configuration with reliability. In the configuration included in the present technology, the chassis opening 7380 is not provided above the intermediate component 9700 (as shown in FIGS. 36A to 36C), but is provided in other directions / places around the intermediate component 9700 (for example, on the side or below the intermediate component 9700). In these examples, the position of the port 9730 is provided on the intermediate component 9700 so as to correspond to the position of the chassis opening 7380.

[0356] The engagement formation points L1 to L3 may be moved such that one or more of the engagement formation points L1 to L3 are provided on the side of the intermediate component 9700 opposite to the position of the port 9730. In these examples, since the engagement formation points L1 to L3 bias the movement of the intermediate component 9700 in other directions (for example, laterally), they are not "high position" points. Even when the chassis opening 7380 is provided laterally (particularly below the intermediate component 9700), the functions of the engagement formation points L1 to L3 are to push the intermediate component 9700 in a specific direction and lock the intermediate component 9700 in the engagement configuration. Depending on the location of the chassis opening 7380, the function of the engagement formation points L1 to L3 that push the intermediate component 9700 towards the chassis opening 7380 may be at least partially provided by gravity.

[0357] In examples that include a port seal associated with the port 9730 of the intermediate component 9700 (i.e., port seal 6735 or port seal 9735), one or more of the engagement formation points L1 to L3 may also have the task of providing a stable sealed engagement between the intermediate component port 9730, the chassis opening 7380, and the port seal. In examples of the present technology, the port seal (for example, port seal 6735 or port seal 9735) is part of the intermediate component 9700, part of the membrane 9732, part of the chassis opening 7380, and / or an independent element.

[0358] The chassis opening 7380 may have an opening smaller than the port 9730 and / or an opening formed by the port seal 9735. In some examples, the inner surface that may be included in the chassis opening 7380 allows for a change in the cross-sectional profile. In the profile of the inner surface shown in FIG. 36D, the opening provided at the first end 7380 of the chassis opening adjacent to the port 9730 is smaller than the second end of the chassis opening 7380 on the opposite side of the first end. The chassis opening 7380 may have a circular shape with a first diameter formed at the first end and a circular opening at the second end having a second diameter larger than the first diameter. In some examples, the second diameter may be made equal to the diameter of the port 9730 and / or the opening formed by the port seal 9735. A larger opening may be required for accommodating a sensor that may be larger than the opening on the first end. The opening on the first end may be made smaller to reduce the possibility of contaminants entering the sensor and / or other components on the circuit board.

[0359] Features of a particular cross-sectional profile (in this case, the two openings described in the above paragraph) may be formed within the chassis wall. However, a second (or additional) opening may also be formed by providing a flange on the upper surface of the chassis, thereby forming a side wall 7390 that surrounds the chassis opening 7380 formed in the chassis wall. Such an optional side wall 7390 shown in FIG. 36D extends from the surface of the chassis 7300 to the PCBA 7600 and provides a second end having a second diameter. The side wall 7390 may improve the acoustic seal between the PCBA 7600 and the first end of the chassis opening 7380 and provide acoustic integrity for reception by the microphone. The inner wall of the chassis opening 7380 biases different profiles between the first end and the second end having different diameters. In the profile shown in FIG. 36D, the chassis opening 7380 is flared on the outer surface, thus defining two different diameters on two opposing faces of the chassis wall.

[0360] As shown in FIG. 36D, the sensor can be disposed at least partially adjacent to and / or inside the second end of the chassis opening 7380. In some examples, since the sensor 4270 can be spaced apart from the PCBA 7600 or extend in a separating direction, the sensor 4270 is disposed almost entirely inside the chassis opening 7380. A seal composed of silicone, a thermoplastic material, or another flexible material can be provided at the interface between the chassis wall opening and the PCB and / or between the chassis wall opening and the detector.

[0361] 5.9 Acoustic Analysis and Detection An RPT device (4000 or 6000) according to an aspect of the present technology can be configured to identify physical characteristics of the air circuit 4170 of the RPT system and / or physical characteristics (e.g., conduits and / or masks) within the air circuit 4170 of the RPT system based on detection of acoustic signals propagating along at least a portion of the air circuit 4170 (e.g., conduits and / or masks). Examples of acoustic detection for a respiratory therapy device are described in PCT patent application No. WO2010 / 091462. The entire content of this document is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

[0362] The RPT device can identify the physical characteristics of the air circuit 4170 and / or the physical characteristics within the air circuit 4170 using the sound generated from the RPT device (e.g., noise from the impeller and / or the motor of the blower, or other mechanical sounds activated by the device assembly (e.g., insertion of the humidifier reservoir)). Such sound travels downstream, for example, along a conduit to the mask. Similarly, the system can utilize the ambient noise traveling through the air path of the RPT device. Some of the sound generated from the device can be reflected from various physical features (e.g., conduits and masks) along the air circuit 4170, travel back along the conduit to the RPT device, and form an "echo" signal. The "echo" signal can be regarded as a filtered reflection of the signal related to a specific feature, and the filter can be regarded as the reflection-type frequency response function of the specific feature. One skilled in the art will understand that the frequency response function is the complex spectrum of the impulse response function and can be used for the definition of the response of the physical feature (e.g., the reflection-type response to the incident excitation signal).

[0363] Sensor 4270 (e.g., a microphone) (see FIG. 37) may be configured to detect an audio signal. In some examples, sensor 4270 may be configured for the detection of a combination of an original source signal and a returned sound (an “echo” signal). Sensor 4270 may be disposed within the internal space of RPT device 4000. Circuitry (e.g., an integrated circuit and / or a processor) coupled to sensor 4270 may be configured to determine physical characteristics of air circuit 4170 and / or physical characteristics within air circuit 4170 based on the detected sound. In some examples, the circuitry may be configured to send the signal to a processor. Signal processing may be used for the estimation of a reflection impulse response function of one or more target physical features, and one or more additional impulse response functions may be classified using a classification system. In some examples, the circuitry may be configured to compare the detected returned sound to the sound originally generated and subtract one or more parameters of a downstream system based on the difference between the two. For example, the circuitry may be configured to determine, e.g., the type of conduit and / or mask used within the system, the presence of obstacles within air circuit 4170, and leaks within air circuit 4170. In some examples, the processing of the signal may be distributed, e.g., an integrated digital sensor may convert an acoustic signal to a digital signal, and the signal may then be sent to a separate processor where an impulse response function is estimated. Next, the estimated impulse response function may be sent to another processor where classification of the physical features occurs. In another example, the RPT device may be connected to a network of other devices located locally or remotely, and any combination of processing may be performed on the other devices.

[0364] According to an aspect of the present technology, the sensor 4270 can be disposed inside the RPT device 4000 in the vicinity of the conduit of the air circuit 4170 or within a feature that connects the conduit to a humidifier and / or a pressure generator. The port 6730 (9730) is provided to facilitate the propagation of incident sound and / or reflected sound to the sensor 4270. In some examples of the present technology, an intermediate component 9700 that connects the air circuit 4170 to the RPT device 4000 (e.g., via a connection to the reservoir dock 6050 and / or the water reservoir 6100) can include a sound port 9730 that facilitates the propagation of sound (originally generated and / or reflected) to the sensor 4270.

[0365] FIG. 37 shows exemplary components of a system for detecting a sound signal according to the present technology. The generated sound (GS) can be generated from one or more components in the integrated RPT device and humidifier 6000 (or the RPT device 4000). This sound can be generated due to the operation of the blower 4142. The generated sound can propagate directly or through one or more other components to the air circuit 4170. As shown in FIG. 37, the sound propagates to the air circuit 4170 via the water reservoir 6100 and the intermediate component 9700. A portion of the generated sound GS in the air circuit 4170 can be reflected from various physical features along the air circuit 4170 and / or the patient interface 3000. The reflected sound can return along the conduit and back to the RPT device 6000. A portion of the generated sound can be reflected from different locations within the signal propagation path (including the conduit, mask, and / or the patient).

[0366] Sensor 4270 (e.g., a microphone) is provided within the RPT device to sense the generated sound GS and the reflected sound RS. As shown in FIG. 37, sensor 4270 is disposed proximate to port 9730 of intermediate component 9700. Sensor 4270 can be coupled to PCBA 7600 such that sensor 4270 is positioned a predetermined distance above port 9730. Sensor 4270 can also be coupled to other circuitry on PCBA 7600 or to another PCBA (including processing circuitry configured to subtract based on the sensed sound of one or more parameters of air circuit 4170). Vibrations in PCBA 7600 can be picked up by sensor 4270, which can result in degradation of the detected “echo” signal. To reduce the occurrence of such vibrations, one or more mass element / spring element / damping elements (e.g., rubber and / or silicone washers) can be used when fastening PCBA 7600 to the chassis, thereby damping a portion of the vibrations of PCBA 7600 and improving the reception of the “echo” signal.

[0367] According to one form of the present technology, sensor 4270 (e.g., a microphone) is provided at a predetermined distance from port 9730. In one example, sensor 4270 (e.g., a microphone) is provided as close as possible to port 9730. This predetermined distance can be measured from the plane defined with respect to sensor 4270 by the exit of chassis opening 7380. In some examples, this predetermined distance can be measured from sensor 4270 to the inner surface of intermediate component 9700. In intermediate component 9700, membrane 9732 can extend. However, these distances are not particularly important in the design because resonance results in equal incidence and reflection waves.

[0368] The predetermined distance can be determined based on the wavelength of the highest frequency at which the system is configured to resolve. In some examples, sensor 4270 can be provided at a distance that is approximately 1 / 4 of the signal wavelength resolved by the system. For example, if the system is configured to sense and process an approximate 10 kHz (wavelength 3.5 cm) as the highest frequency, the connection of sensor 4270 can be provided at a distance of 1 / 4 of the wavelength (e.g., in the vicinity of less than 1 cm or at a distance slightly less than 1 cm), thereby avoiding resonance in the connection guide between the intermediate component and the microphone. The distance defined above is usually less than 1 cm, but in some examples, sensor 4270 can be provided at a distance up to 2 cm from the opening in intermediate component 9700.

[0369] When sensor 4270 is placed in the vicinity of a break in the signal propagation path, it can lead to the occurrence of strong reflections, and as a result, reflections generated from various features that can normally be detected based on the reflected signal in the conduit and / or patient interface can be masked. In some examples of the present technology, sensor 4270 can be arranged at a distance further away from the nearest break in the signal propagation path in a manner that is more separated than the maximum distance between any two physical features as targets (e.g., those in the detected patient interface or conduit). In this configuration, a clearer time separation is provided between the components of the impulse response function (IRF) associated with the conduit and / or patient interface and associated with the pressure generator in the RPT device. The IRF is the system response to a unit impulse input. In this configuration, according to the system, the detection of features smaller than this distance can be provided independently of the characteristics of the pressure generator IRF.

[0370] As one approximation of the maximum distance between physical features within a patient interface (or conduit), there is the maximum dimension of the patient interface or components (or conduit) of the patient interface when components are connected via a waveguide. Typically, the ends of intermediate component 9700 are continuously connected to other components. The outlet of the intermediate component is typically connected to an air circuit, and the inlet end of the intermediate component is connected to the inlet end of the outlet pipe of the water reservoir. Due to these connections, the break in the signal propagation path can shift in the case of the inlet end of the intermediate component, and the break shifts here to the inlet end of the outlet pipe of water reservoir 6100. For the detection of a small mask, the distance between sensor 4270 from the inlet end of the outlet pipe of water reservoir 6100 is generally at least 2 - 6 cm. For the detection of a large mask, the distance between sensor 4270 from the inlet end of the outlet pipe of water reservoir 6100 is generally at least 4 - 15 cm. When such a muffler is used instead of a water reservoir, similar considerations apply to the dimensions of the outlet pipe of outlet cap muffler 4124 (e.g., the length of the outlet pipe that determines the distance between sensor 4270 and the inlet end of the outlet pipe). In another embodiment of the present technology, the IRF of the RPT device can be characterized and can be filtered out from the recorded microphone signal to reduce the influence by the above dimensions.

[0371] According to one aspect of the present technology, in order to completely separate the IRF of the mask from the IRF of the pressure generator, the distance between the inlet end of the outlet pipe of the water reservoir 6100 and the sensor 4270 needs to be greater than the maximum dimension of the mask. For example, in the case of a mask where the connecting pipe and cuff used to attach the mask and the connecting pipe to a standard length pipe are 40 cm, the dimension needs to be larger than the value obtained by adding the lengths of the other mask components to 40 cm. However, other arrangements are also possible. If the distance between the sensor 4270 and the closest discontinuity is not greater than the maximum dimension of the mask, the mask signature may appear as a superposition of reflected and attenuated forms (i.e., secondary reflection of the mask signature from the device discontinuity). This composite signature may be useful as just mask identification information. For example, if the distance between the sensor and the closest discontinuity is significantly small, the superposition of the IRF can be algorithmically considered for the case where the IRF of the pressure generator is consistent or deterministic. An example of the IRF based on acoustic feature detection in the system is described in PCT Patent Application Publication No. WO2010 / 091462. The entire document is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

[0372] In some examples of the present technology, a seal 9800 (e.g., constructed of thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or silicone) may be provided between the PCBA 7600 and the chassis 7300 (see, for example, FIG. 36D). A sealing wall adjacent to and at least partially surrounding the side wall 7390 may be formed by a main portion of the seal 9800. The wall portion of the seal 9800 may partially or entirely surround the side wall 7390. The side wall 7390 extends from the chassis and provides an opening facing the PCBA 7600. The sensor 4270 may be aligned with and / or at least partially provided inside the opening of the chassis facing the PCBA 7600.

[0373] In one example, the "ceiling" portion that may further be included in the seal faces the PCBA 7600 and extends above and within the region surrounded by the sealing wall and the adjacent side wall 7390, whereby a ceiling is effectively formed above both the sealing wall and the side wall 7390. By providing an opening within this ceiling portion, it becomes possible to send sound through the interior from the chassis opening 7380 to the sensor. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 36D, an opening facing the opening formed by the side wall 7390 may be provided in the face of the ceiling portion of the seal 9800 that faces the PCBA 7600. By providing an opening within the seal 9800, it becomes possible to at least partially dispose the sensor 4270 mounted on the PCBA 7600 within the chassis opening formed by the side wall 7390. The seal 9800 may include a peripheral sealing formation portion 9805 that surrounds the periphery of the opening within the seal 9800. As shown in FIG. 36D, the peripheral sealing formation portion 9805 may be provided at the outer edge of the side wall 7390. The peripheral sealing formation portion 9805 can provide a compression seal against the PCBA 7600 during the assembly of the PCBA 7600 and the chassis 7300. A portion of the chassis 7300 adjacent to the side wall 7390 presses the seal 9800 against the PCBA 7600 during assembly.

[0374] The seal 9800 and / or the peripheral sealing formation portion 9805 can prevent the entry of external noise into the chassis opening and / or reduce the transmission of vibrations between the PCBA 7600 and the chassis 7300. The seal 9800 and / or the port seal 9735 provide an acoustic seal for guiding sound to the sensor. The peripheral sealing formation portion 9805 may include the raised sealing formation described with reference to FIGS. 34A - 34D or the lip sealing formation described with reference to FIGS. 35A - 35D.

[0375] The seal 9800 can be attached to the PCBA 7600 and / or the chassis 7300 using an adhesive or mechanical means (e.g., screws or bolts). In some examples, the seal 9800 can be fixed without using an adhesive or mechanical means by being pushed onto the PCBA 7600 by the chassis 7300.

[0376] 5.9.1 Communication between the sensor and the intermediate component As described above with reference to FIG. 37, a sensor 4270 (e.g., a microphone) is mounted on the PCBA 7600 for sensing sound in the air path. Sound reaches the sensor 4270 via a port 9730 in the intermediate component 9700 or another part (e.g., a conduit) of the air circuit 4170. The port 9730 can include a membrane and / or a port seal. Sound can be transmitted from the membrane through the port seal to an opening 7380 in the chassis 7300. Below and / or within the opening 7380, the sensor 4270 is mounted on the PCBA 7600. Analysis of the sound from the sensor 4270 determines one or more characteristics of the RPT device and / or one or more characteristics of the air circuit 4170.

[0377] Various problems can affect the quality of the sound transmitted to the sensor 4270, the quality of the sound sensed by the sensor 4270, and / or the analysis consistency over time between RPT devices. For example, variations due to the following in the relative positions of the features of the sensor 4270 and the air circuit 4170 (e.g., the intermediate component 9700, the port 9730, the port seal 9735, and / or the membrane 9732 described above with reference to FIGS. 34A - 36C): manufacturing tolerances and / or wear of components; leakage of sound to the surroundings after passing through the port 9730 and / or the chassis opening 7380; and / or vibration of the components of the RPT device (e.g., the PCBA 7600) and / or the air circuit 4170 during use being transmitted to the sensor 4270.

[0378] According to an example of the present technology (see FIGS. 38A - 39D), the sound quality and consistency are improved by a coupler 8750 configured to flexibly couple a sensor 4270 to a feature of an air circuit 4170 (e.g., a port and / or a diaphragm provided within an intermediate component or another part of the air circuit). The coupler 8750 is configured to self-align to ensure the consistency of the relative positioning (e.g., horizontal and / or vertical) with respect to the port 8830 and / or the diaphragm 8732 of the sensor 4270. The coupler 8750 can be a magnetic coupler including one or more magnets to align and hold the coupler 8750 in a predetermined position. The coupler 8750 also functions as a completely sealed path to minimize the escape of sound to the surroundings. In this regard, the coupler guides the sound along the path to the sensor to at least a certain extent. Since the coupler 8750 is flexible, at least a part of the vibrations of the air circuit 4170 components (e.g., the intermediate component 8700 and / or the PCBA 7600) is attenuated. To reduce the vibration transmission from the PCBA 7600 to the sensor 4270, the sensor 4270 can be mounted using one or more damping features (e.g., rubber feet) on tabs on the PCBA 7600, and these damping features can be partially curved by cutout channels. The coupler 8750 can be of a "bellows" type to obtain additional vertical flexibility.

[0379] Regarding the features related to the connection of the sensor 4270 to the air circuit 4170, although described with reference to the connection of the sensor 4270 to an intermediate component, the features related to the connection of the sensor 4270 to the air circuit 4170 can also be included in an implementation where the sensor 4270 is directly or indirectly connected to another part of the air circuit 4170 (e.g., a conduit or a mask). For example, the features related to the connection of the sensor 4270 to the air circuit 4170 can be applied to an example where the sensor 4270 is connected to a port (e.g., an opening covered by a diaphragm) within a conduit of the air circuit 4170. In this example, the sensor 4270 can be mounted independently, or on the PCBA 7600 inside the RPT device housing or on another PCBA 7600 outside the RPT device housing.

[0380] In the context of the above paragraph, the term "intermediate component" (e.g., intermediate component 6700, intermediate component 8700, or intermediate component 9700) can be regarded as actually covering any component that links a sound source to an air circuit and a detector. In this sense, the term "intermediate" can be regarded as being used in the context of being between a sound source and a sensor to provide an acoustic link therebetween, and is not necessarily limited to a component disposed between a conduit and a blower. Thus, in some examples of the present technology, the intermediate component may be pneumatically connected to the path rather than within the path (see, e.g., FIG. 37) between the blower and the conduit of the air circuit 4170. In one such example, the intermediate component may be connected to an opening within the tube of the air circuit and may be connected to the sensor via a port and a seal provided within the intermediate component.

[0381] In other examples, the intermediate component may be disposed inside the housing of the RPT device together with other components (e.g., a pressure generator, a humidifier, a circuit board, and / or a sensor).

[0382] 5.9.1.1 Sensor Positioning and Sound Path Alignment As described above, in some examples of the present technology, the sensor 4270 (e.g., a microphone) is provided at a predetermined distance from the port 8830 within the intermediate component 8700. In some examples, the sensor 4270 is provided as close as possible to the port (e.g., port 8830) at a particular location. However, due to manufacturing tolerance variations, component wear, and variations in the positioning of the features of the air circuit 4170 (e.g., the position of the intermediate component 8700 when inserted into the receiving-side chassis opening), the relative positioning (e.g., horizontal and / or vertical) of the port 8830 and / or the diaphragm 8732 of the sensor 4270 may be different for the same component used in different RPT devices, or may change over time when the components are replaced or reassembled (e.g., after cleaning) prior to use.

[0383] The coupler 8750 according to the present technique, shown in FIGS. 38A to 39D, connects the sensor 4270 to the intermediate component 8700. The coupler 8750 is configured to align the sensor 4270 with a port 8830 within the intermediate component 8700 when the intermediate component 8700 is inserted into an RPT device (e.g., the dock outlet 6090 of the reservoir dock 6050 shown in FIGS. 11 to 13).

[0384] In some examples, the intermediate component 8700 may include one or more features described with reference to the intermediate component 6700 (FIGS. 13 to 15 and FIGS. 19 to 22) and / or the intermediate component 9700 (see FIGS. 23 to 36C), or may correspond to the intermediate component 6700 or the intermediate component 9700. Similarly, the intermediate component 6700 or the intermediate component 9700 may include one or more features described with reference to the intermediate component 8700.

[0385] The coupler 8750 is positioned between and connected to the PCBA 7600 and the intermediate component 8700. The coupler 8750 is removably connected to the intermediate component 8700. FIGS. 38A to 39D show the coupler 8750 being connected to the intermediate component 8700, but in some examples of the present technique, the coupler 8750 may be removably connected to another component of the air circuit 4170 (e.g., a conduit) (including an opening that enables sound to reach a sensor 4270 positioned outside the air circuit 4170).

[0386] The coupler 8750 includes a body 8752. The body 8752 can be a tubular body and includes an inlet end 8756 adapted to interface with an intermediate component 8700 and an outlet end 8758 adapted to interface with a sensor 4270 and / or a PCBA 7600. The coupler 8750 can be constructed of a relatively soft material (e.g., thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or silicone). The body 8752 can include one or more bellows 8754 disposed between the inlet end 8756 and the outlet end 8758. The one or more bellows 8754 can be adapted to position the inlet end 8756 horizontally and / or vertically relative to the outlet end 8758 and can be fixed to the sensor 4270 and / or the PCBA 7600 (without interfering with the connection).

[0387] In one form of the present technology, since the material of the coupler 8750 is flexible, it may be possible to displace the inlet end 8756 horizontally and / or vertically relative to the outlet end 8758 (without interfering with the connection). In this example, the horizontal and / or vertical displacement due to the flexibility of the material may be provided in addition to, or alternatively to, the one or more bellows 8754.

[0388] The opening 8764 included in the outlet end 8758 is configured to engage with a sensor 4270 provided on the PCBA 7600. The opening 8764 within the outlet end 8758 can correspond to the shape and size of the sensor 4270 (e.g., sensor housing 4271). The sensor 4270 can be press-fitted into the opening 8764 within the outlet end 8758 and / or can be adhered or cold-welded to secure the sensor 4270 to the coupler 8750. The sensor 4270 can be removably connected within the opening 8764.

[0389] The flange 8759 that may be included in the outlet end 8758 is adapted to abut against a part of the sensor 4270 and / or a part of the PCBA 7600 that surrounds the sensor. The flange 8759 may extend from the body 8752 and may extend in an outward direction from the central axis of the body 8752 and / or may extend from the body 8752 towards the central axis of the body 8752. In one example, the outlet end 8758 may be connected to the sensor 4270 (without directly contacting the PCBA 7600). In another example, at least a part of the outlet end of the coupler 8750 may contact the PCBA 7600. In another example, the outlet end 8758 may be contacted (and / or attached) to the PCBA 7600, but the body of the sensor 4270 is offset from the PCBA 7600 at a predetermined distance, so the sensor is not directly placed on the PCBA 7600 but is attached to the PCBA 7600. In this example, the outlet end may be closed, one or more rubber feet (see rubber feet 8788 in FIGS. 41A - 41C) may be provided on the outlet end 8758 to connect the coupler 8750 to the PCBA 7600, and one or more ports 8786 may be made available to send wires connecting the sensor to the PCBA 7600.

[0390] The inlet end 8756 includes a connection portion 8760 adapted to receive a first connection element 8762. The flange that may be included in the connection portion 8760 includes a complementary shape corresponding to the shape of the first connection element 8762. In some examples, the first connection element 8762 may be a ring and is adapted to be press - fitted into the flange and provided on a part of the body 8752 that extends through the flange. The first connection element 8762 may be adhered or cold - welded to the inlet end 8756. In some examples, the inlet end 8756 may be over - molded onto the first connection element 8762 such that the first connection element 8762 is encapsulated by the inlet end 8756.

[0391] The first connecting element 8762 is adapted to removably connect to a second connecting element 8766 disposed on or within the intermediate component 8700. The first connecting element 8762 and / or the second connecting element 8766 may include magnets adapted to connect to each other. In some examples, one of the first connecting element 8762 and the second connecting element 8766 includes a magnet and the other of the first connecting element 8762 and the second connecting element 8766 includes a metallic material adapted to connect to the magnet. The shape of the first connecting element 8762 may correspond to the shape of the second connecting element 8766. In one example, the shape and size of the first connecting element 8762 may be the same as the shape and size of the second connecting element 8766. In one example, the shape of the first connecting element 8762 may be the same as the shape of the second connecting element 8766 and the size of the second connecting element 8766 may be made larger than the first connecting element 8762.

[0392] The second connecting element 8766 is provided on the surface of the intermediate component 8700 (see, e.g., FIG. 39B) or disposed beneath at least a portion of the surface of the intermediate component 8700 (see, e.g., FIG. 39A). The second connecting element 8766 is attached to the intermediate component 8700 (e.g., adhered or cold welded). The second connecting element 8766 may be a ring and is positioned around a port 8830 in the plane of the intermediate component 8700. The second connecting element 8766 may be positioned such that the central axis of the second connecting element 8766 is common with the central axis 8830 of the port. In some examples, the opening of the port 8830 may have a shape and / or size corresponding to an opening in the second connecting element 8766 and / or the first connecting element 8762.

[0393] In some examples, the second connection element 8766 can be provided under a membrane 8732 or another element (e.g., a silicone ring-shaped element) adapted to cover at least a portion of the second connection element 8766 (e.g., along the perimeter of the ring). The membrane 8732 or other element can be connected to a surface of an intermediate component 8700 adjacent to the outer periphery of the second connection element 8766. This membrane can be a thin silicone membrane and can be acoustically permeable and impermeable to liquids and / or gases. The shape and / or size that the membrane 8732 can have corresponds to the outer shape and / or size of the first connection element 8762 and / or the second connection element 8766. As shown in FIGS. 38B, 39A, and 39B, the membrane 8732 can be circular and can extend beyond the second connection element 8766 in some examples of the present technology.

[0394] In some examples of the present technology, the membrane 8732 can include one or more features of the membrane 9732 described above (see, e.g., FIGS. 34A-36C). In some examples of the present technology, the membrane 8732 can be provided on the inner surface of the intermediate component 8700 (see, e.g., the membrane 9732 shown in FIGS. 34A-36C).

[0395] In some examples of the present technology, the membrane 8732 can be configured to cover an end of the coupler 8750 adjacent to the intermediate component 8700. For example, the membrane can be provided between the end of the coupler 8750 and the first connection element 8762.

[0396] In some examples of the present technology, the second connection element 8766 can be provided as part of or inside a port seal (see the port seal 9735 shown in FIGS. 34A-36C). In this example, the second connection element 8766 can be provided within or under a part of the port seal 9735. For example, the second connection element 8766 can be provided within the raised seal 9737, within the lip seal 9742, within the connection portion 9739, or under the connection portion 9739.

[0397] In some examples of the present technology, other mechanical couplings (e.g., mechanical coupling methods, temporary adhesion methods, or suction methods) may be used to removably couple the coupler 8750 to the intermediate component 8700.

[0398] As shown in FIG. 39A, the coupler 8750 may extend from the PCBA 7600 to the port 8830 through a chassis opening 7380 in the chassis 7300. In some examples, at least a portion of the sensors 4270 may extend into or through the chassis opening 7380. FIG. 36D shows the PCBA 7600 disposed above the chassis opening 7380 and the sensor 4270 supported by the PCBA 7600 that at least partially extends into the chassis opening 7380. In some examples, the center of the sensor may be aligned with the central axis of the chassis opening 7380. In another arrangement, the intermediate component may not be able to directly connect the pressure generator to the air delivery tube, but both may be pneumatically connected. Also, in another arrangement, a chassis wall may not be disposed between the opening of the intermediate component and the sensor. In this case as well, the above description is applicable, but applicable in the context of a direct connection between the opening of the intermediate component and the PCBA 7600 (e.g., see FIG. 37) or another component on which the acoustic sensor is mounted on top.

[0399] When the intermediate component 8700 is inserted into the receiving-side reservoir dock 6050 and positioned at a predetermined position (see, for example, FIGS. 36A-36C), the inlet end 8756 of the coupler 8750 may not be aligned with the port 8830 in the horizontal and / or vertical directions. Due to the suction and connection characteristics between the first connection element 8762 and the second connection element 8766 and the one or more bellows 8754, the inlet end 8756 can be displaced in the horizontal and / or vertical directions, and when the first connection element 8762 and the second connection element 8766 are close to each other, the first connection element 8762 can be aligned with and connected to the second connection element 8766. The alignment of the first connection element 8762 and the second connection element 8766 (for example, by having a common axis) and any additional elements that may be provided within the connection arrangement configuration enable a path for the sound to move directly from the intermediate component 8700 to the sensor 4270 (without any of the above elements making mechanical contact with the chassis 7300 or the PCBA 7600). In the aligned state, the port 8830, the first connection element 8762, and the second connection element 8766 may have a common longitudinal axis.

[0400] Alignment of the inlet end 8756 with the port 8830 provides an aligned path for moving sound from the intermediate component 8700 to the sensor 4270 via the port 8830. This path is provided consistently even when the final position relative to the fixed position of the sensor 4270 of the intermediate component 8700 varies.

[0401] 5.9.1.2 Features for reducing sound escape The coupler 8750 also functions as a completely sealed path to minimize the escape of sound to the surroundings. FIG. 40A shows the escape of sound that may occur when there is no coupler 8750 between the sensor 4270 and the intermediate component 8700. As shown in FIG. 40A, after the sound passes through the diaphragm 8732, this sound is directed towards the sensor 4270. However, if a horizontal misalignment occurs between the sensor 4270 and the diaphragm 8732 and / or the port 8830, a part of the sound may be directed to the side of the sensor 4270, causing a decrease in the sound captured by the sensor 4270 and affecting the quality of the captured sound. When the vertical alignment changes, the amount of sound directed to the side of the sensor 4270 may increase or decrease.

[0402] FIG. 40B shows the escape of sound that may occur in a system including a coupler 8750 between the sensor 4270 and the intermediate component 8700 according to an example of the present technology. By self-aligning the coupler 8750 with the port 8830 within the intermediate component 8700, a sealed path for moving sound from the intermediate component 8700 to the sensor 4270 is obtained. As shown in FIG. 40B, when there is no misalignment in the vertical and / or horizontal directions, the escape of sound to the side of the sensor 4270 can be almost eliminated. Therefore, the coupler 8750 functions as a completely sealed path to minimize the escape of sound to the surroundings.

[0403] 5.9.1.3 Features for Reducing Vibration Due to vibrations in the RPT device and / or components of the air circuit 4170, the quality of the sound captured by the sensor 4270 may deteriorate. The flexibility of the coupler 8750 obtained by the material of the coupler 8750 and / or the bellow 8754 attenuates at least a part of the vibrations generated in the air circuit 4170 and / or sent to the sensor 4270 via the air circuit 4170.

[0404] Vibrations that can cause deterioration of the detected "echo" signal can also be sent from the PCBA7600 to the sensor 4270. The PCBA7600 connected to the chassis picks up vibrations caused by components of the RPT device (e.g., the motor of the blower). As described above, in order to reduce the occurrence of such vibrations within the PCBA7600, one or more damping elements (e.g., rubber and / or silicone washers) can be used for fastening the PCBA7600 to the chassis, which can damp any vibrations of the PCBA7600 and improve the reception of the "echo" signal.

[0405] 5.9.1.3.1 Rubber Interface As another feature that may be included in other examples disclosed...

Claims

**Claim 1** An apparatus for the treatment of respiratory diseases, comprising: a pressure generator configured to generate a flow of breathable gas; a humidifier configured to hold a quantity of water and receive the flow of breathable gas to humidify the flow of breathable gas; an intermediate component removably coupled to the humidifier, the intermediate component including a port configured to facilitate the propagation of sound outside the intermediate component; a sensor attached externally to the intermediate component and disposed adjacent to the port of the intermediate component, the sensor being configured to sense sound propagating through the port; a controller; wherein the controller is configured to receive a sound signal generated by the sensor due to sound sensing during operation of the apparatus, analyze the received sound signal, and provide a response based at least in part on the analysis. The apparatus is thus configured. **Claim 2** The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the intermediate component is configured to pneumatically connect an air delivery tube to the humidifier. **Claim 3** The response includes at least one of recording the result of the analysis, displaying the result of the analysis, transferring the result of the analysis, and controlling the operation of the pressure generator based at least in part on the analysis. The apparatus according to claim 1 or 2 includes at least one of the above. **Claim 4** The apparatus further includes a chassis including a chassis opening, wherein the port in the intermediate component is disposed on a first side of the chassis opening, and the sensor is positioned on a second side of the chassis opening. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3 is thus configured. **Claim 5** The apparatus according to claim 4 further includes a circuit board disposed on the second side of the chassis opening, wherein the sensor is coupled to the circuit board. **Claim 6** The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5 further includes a flexible coupler configured to send sound from the port to the sensor. **Claim 7** The apparatus according to claim 6 further includes a circuit board to which the sensor is coupled, wherein the flexible coupler includes an outlet end configured to directly engage the sensor and an inlet end configured to removably engage the intermediate component.

8. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an air delivery tube configured to send the breathable gas flow from the pressure generator to the patient interface.

9. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a membrane configured to cover the port and transmit sound from the inside of the intermediate component to the outside of the intermediate component.

10. The apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the membrane is provided on the lower side of the outer surface of the intermediate component.

11. A membrane configured to cover the port and transmit sound from the inside of the intermediate component to the outside of the intermediate component, and a port seal arranged to provide a sealed engagement between the port and the chassis opening when the intermediate component is in an operating configuration The apparatus according to any one of claims 4 to 10, further comprising at least one of.

12. The humidifier is a water reservoir including a cavity structured to hold the fixed amount of water, the water reservoir receiving the breathable gas flow such that the breathable gas flow is humidified before being sent to the patient interface, a water reservoir; a water reservoir dock structured and arranged to receive the water reservoir in an operating position; including The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the intermediate component is removably connected to the water reservoir dock such that the intermediate component receives the humidified flow of breathable gas and the flow is sent to the air delivery tube.

13. The intermediate component is of a generally tubular shape, the water reservoir dock includes a generally tubular opening for receiving the intermediate component, The apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the intermediate component and the generally tubular opening are configured for frictionless insertion of the intermediate component into the opening.

14. Further comprising a chassis including a chassis opening, the port in the intermediate component being disposed on a first side of the chassis opening, the sensor being positioned on a second side of the chassis opening, at least one of the intermediate component and the generally tubular opening includes at least one engagement forming portion, The engaging and forming part is arranged such that at least one engagement of the engaging and forming part causes the intermediate component to take an operating configuration when the intermediate component is inserted into the opening. In the operating configuration, the port seal and the chassis opening are in sealing engagement, and the support engagement provided by at least one of the engaging and forming parts is configured to prevent a situation where the intermediate component is forcibly moved from the operating configuration when there is no perceivable external force. The device according to claim 13, wherein at least one of the above is provided.

15. The device further includes a port seal configured to surround the port. The port seal includes a peripheral sealing formation part, and the peripheral sealing formation part includes a lip configured to contact the surface of the chassis around the chassis opening when the intermediate component is connected to the humidifier. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

16. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the controller is configured to determine the characteristics of the air delivery tube or the patient interface based on the analysis.

17. The device according to claim 16, wherein the controller is further configured to determine the type or size of the air delivery tube or the type or size of the patient interface connected to the air delivery tube based on the analysis.

18. The intermediate component includes an outlet end configured to connect an air delivery tube to the intermediate component and an inlet end configured to connect a water reservoir to the intermediate component. The air path between the inlet end and the outlet end is non-linear and includes at least one turn. The device according to any one of claims 12 to 15, wherein at least the turn closest to the port is curved.

19. The central axis of the inlet end is in a substantially transverse direction with respect to the central axis of the outlet end, defining a corresponding transverse air path, outer corners and inner corners, and each of the outer corners and the inner corners includes an inner surface with a rounded shape. The device according to claim 18.

20. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the intermediate component is configured to pneumatically connect an air delivery tube to the water reservoir of the humidifier and mechanically connect the air delivery tube to the water reservoir dock of the humidifier.

21. Further comprising a transducer configured to generate a flow signal indicative of the characteristics of the air flow, said controller, controlling the operation of said pressure generator, during operation of said pressure generator, receiving said flow signal from said transducer and said sound signal sensed by said sensor, analyzing said received sound signal, changing the operation of said pressure generator based at least in part on said analysis and said flow signal, The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 20, configured to perform.

22. Further comprising a port seal arranged to provide a sealed engagement between said port and the chassis opening at the operating position, The chassis includes a generally tubular opening for receiving said generally tubular intermediate component, said intermediate component including an inlet end adapted to be inserted into said opening and an outlet end adapted to interface with an air delivery tube, a gap between said port seal and said chassis adjacent said chassis opening is provided upon insertion of said intermediate component into said opening, The apparatus according to any one of claims 4 to 21, wherein said port seal begins engagement with said chassis after an edge of said port has passed a central axis or an edge of said chassis opening during insertion of said intermediate component into said opening.

23. After engagement of said port seal with said chassis is initiated, said intermediate component is further inserted a predetermined distance to bring said intermediate component into an operating configuration. The apparatus according to claim 22.

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