CPAP device silencer and CPAP device

Abstract

A silencer (40) for a CPAP device (10) comprises a circulation channel (41) through which air can be circulated and a first silencing chamber (42A) to which pressure fluctuations of the air in the circulation channel (41) can be transmitted. The circulation channel (41) includes a first flow channel (41A), a second flow channel (41B), and a third flow channel (41C) that extend along a first axis (X). The circulation channel (41) further includes a first connecting flow channel (41D) that connects an end of the first flow channel (41A) on a first positive direction (X1) side and an end of the second flow channel (41B) on the first positive direction (X1) side, and a second connecting flow channel (41E) that connects an end of the second flow channel (41B) on a first negative direction (X2) side and an end of the third flow channel (41C) on the first negative direction (X2) side. A first connecting flow channel length (41DL) is different from a second connecting flow channel length (41EL). The first silencing chamber (42A) is located between the second flow channel (41B) and the third flow channel (41C). A wall part (44) that separates the first silencing chamber (42A) from the second connecting flow channel (41E) has a first opening (45A).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a silencer for a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) device and the CPAP device. [Background technology]

[0002] The CPAP device described in Patent Document 1 includes a main unit and a sub-unit. The main unit has a built-in blower. The sub-unit has a built-in silencer. The silencer has a flow passage for air blown by the blower and a resonance tube branching from the flow passage. The resonance tube is a so-called side branch type resonator. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] WO 19 / 189126 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In a CPAP device such as that described in Patent Document 1, the amount of air blown from the blower needs to be adjusted in accordance with the user's breathing timing, and therefore the rotation speed of the blower fan is also adjusted in accordance with the user's breathing timing. Therefore, the CPAP device may generate noise in various frequency bands. The CPAP device described in Patent Document 1 is expected to have a noise attenuation effect for specific frequencies depending on the shape of the resonance tube. However, the CPAP device described in Patent Document 1 may not necessarily be able to achieve a noise attenuation effect for frequency bands outside of the specific frequency band. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] In order to solve the above problem, one aspect of the present disclosure includes a flow passage through which air can flow as a blower is driven, and a sound-reducing chamber through which pressure fluctuations of the air in the flow passage can be transmitted, the flow passage including a first flow path extending along a first axis, a second flow path extending along the first axis and aligned with the first flow path in a direction perpendicular to the first axis, a third flow path extending along the first axis and aligned with the second flow path in a direction perpendicular to the first axis, and a third flow path extending along the first axis and aligned with the second flow path in a direction perpendicular to the first axis, wherein when one of two directions along the first axis is defined as a positive direction and a direction opposite to the positive direction is defined as a negative direction, a positive-direction end of the first flow path and a negative-direction end of the second flow path are aligned with each other. a first connecting flow path connecting the negative end of the second flow path and the negative end of the third flow path, wherein the maximum dimension of the first connecting flow path in the direction in which the second flow path and the third flow path are aligned is different from the maximum dimension of the second connecting flow path in the direction in which the second flow path and the third flow path are aligned, the silencing chamber is located between the second flow path and the third flow path in the direction in which the second flow path and the third flow path are aligned, and a wall portion separating the silencing chamber and the second connecting flow path is a silencer of a CPAP device having an opening connecting the silencing chamber and the second connecting flow path.

[0006] Moreover, one aspect of the present disclosure includes a blower that compresses and sends air, and a silencer, wherein the silencer includes a flow passage through which air can flow when driven by the blower, and a sound-reducing chamber through which pressure fluctuations of the air in the flow passage can be transmitted, and the flow passage includes a first flow passage extending along a first axis, a second flow passage extending along the first axis and aligned with the first flow passage in a direction perpendicular to the first axis, and a third flow passage extending along the first axis and aligned with the second flow passage in a direction perpendicular to the first axis, and wherein when one of two directions along the first axis is defined as a positive direction and a direction opposite to the positive direction is defined as a negative direction, the positive direction of the first flow passage is a negative direction. a first connecting flow path connecting the opposite end of the second flow path to the positive end of the second flow path, and a second connecting flow path connecting the negative end of the second flow path to the negative end of the third flow path, wherein a maximum dimension of the first connecting flow path in a direction in which the second flow path and the third flow path are aligned is different from a maximum dimension of the second connecting flow path in the direction in which the second flow path and the third flow path are aligned, the silencing chamber is located between the second flow path and the third flow path in the direction in which the second flow path and the third flow path are aligned, and a wall portion separating the silencing chamber and the second connecting flow path has an opening connecting the silencing chamber and the second connecting flow path.

[0007] According to the above configuration, the maximum dimension of the first connecting flow path in the direction in which the second and third flow paths are aligned is different from the maximum dimension of the second connecting flow path in the direction in which the second and third flow paths are aligned. This difference in the lengths of the connecting flow paths results in differences in the frequency bands that can be silenced by each connecting flow path. This allows for the expected noise attenuation effect in various frequency bands. Furthermore, the silencer of the CPAP device is equipped with a sound-absorbing chamber, and an opening leading to the sound-absorbing chamber is located at the bend in the flow path. This allows air pressure fluctuations, i.e., noise, to easily propagate inside the sound-absorbing chamber. Therefore, a high sound-absorbing effect can be achieved in the sound-absorbing chamber. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] It is expected to have a high noise attenuation effect and noise reduction effect in various frequency bands. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] It is a schematic diagram showing the usage state of the CPAP device. [Figure 2] It is an exploded perspective view of the CPAP device. [Figure 3] It is a schematic configuration diagram of the CPAP device. [Figure 4] It is a view of the CPAP device in FIG. 2 seen through from below.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] <An Embodiment of the Silencer of the CPAP Device> Hereinafter, an embodiment of the silencer of a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure device (hereinafter referred to as the CPAP device) will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the drawings may show the components enlarged for ease of understanding. The dimensional ratios of the components may be different from the actual ones or those in another drawing.

[0011] (Regarding the Structure of the CPAP Device) First, the overall configuration of the CPAP device 10 will be described. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the CPAP device 10 includes a main unit MU and a sub-unit SU. In the usage state where the main unit MU is attached to the sub-unit SU, that is, in the usage state of the CPAP device 10, the CPAP device 10 is generally in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape as a whole.

[0012] As shown in FIG. 2, the main unit MU of the CPAP device 10 is substantially rectangular parallelepiped. As shown in FIG. 3, the main unit MU has a blower 20, an operation unit 21, a control unit 100, and a power supply 101.

[0013] Although not shown in the figure, the blower 20 stores a blower fan for pumping air. The operation unit 21 is located on the upper surface of the main unit MU. The operation unit 21 is for operating the on / off etc. of the blower 20 via the control unit 100.

[0014] The control unit 100 acquires a signal corresponding to an operation on the operation unit 21. The control unit 100 outputs a control signal to the blower 20 based on the signal acquired from the operation unit 21. The control unit 100 controls the on / off and rotation speed of the blower 20 through the control signal.

[0015] The control unit 100 may be configured as one or more processors that execute various processes according to a computer program (software), one or more dedicated hardware circuits such as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) that executes at least some of the various processes, or a circuit that includes a combination of these.

[0016] A processor includes a CPU and memory, such as RAM and ROM, that stores program code or instructions configured to cause the CPU to perform processes. Memory, or computer-readable media, includes any available media that can be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer.

[0017] The power supply 101 supplies power to the control unit 100, the blower 20, etc. Specifically, the power supply 101 is a battery. That is, the power supply 101 is a secondary battery that can be repeatedly charged. The main unit MU also has an upstream flow path 61 and a downstream flow path 62. The upstream flow path 61 and the downstream flow path 62 are defined within the main unit MU. The upstream flow path 61 and the downstream flow path 62 are connected to a blower 20. The blower 20 draws in air from the upstream flow path 61 and pumps it to the downstream flow path 62.

[0018] 2, the subunit SU of the CPAP device 10 is L-shaped when viewed from the side in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. By attaching the main unit MU to the subunit SU, the CPAP device 10 assumes a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape, as described above. In other words, the subunit SU is detachable from the main unit MU.

[0019] As shown in FIG. 3, the subunit SU has a humidifier 30 and a silencer 40. In other words, the subunit SU is a "silencer of the CPAP device." The humidifier 30 can store water therein. Air compressed by the blower fan of the blower 20 can flow into the humidifier 30. The silencer 40 is used to suppress noise generated when the blower 20 is driven. Details of the shape of the silencer 40 will be described later.

[0020] As shown in FIG. 2 , an axis along the longitudinal direction of the subunit SU is defined as the first axis X. An axis perpendicular to the first axis X is defined as the second axis Y. In this embodiment, the second axis Y is defined as the axis along the short side of the subunit SU. An axis perpendicular to the first axis X and the second axis Y is defined as the third axis Z. One of the directions along the first axis X is defined as the first positive direction X1, and the direction along the first axis X opposite to the first positive direction X1 is defined as the first negative direction X2. One of the directions along the second axis Y is defined as the second positive direction Y1, and the direction along the second axis Y opposite to the second positive direction Y1 is defined as the second negative direction Y2. One of the directions along the third axis Z is defined as the third positive direction Z1, and the direction along the third axis Z opposite to the third positive direction Z1 is defined as the third negative direction Z2.

[0021] As shown in FIG. 3, the subunit SU has a first inlet channel 51, a first outlet channel 52, a second inlet channel 53, and a second outlet channel . The first inlet passage 51 is defined inside the subunit SU. A first end of the first inlet passage 51 opens to the outside of the subunit SU. A second end of the first inlet passage 51 is connected to the silencer 40. The first outlet passage 52 is defined inside the subunit SU. A first end of the first outlet passage 52 is connected to the silencer 40. A second end of the first outlet passage 52 opens to the outside of the subunit SU.

[0022] The second inlet channel 53 is defined inside the subunit SU. A first end of the second inlet channel 53 opens to the outside of the subunit SU. A second end of the second inlet channel 53 is connected to the humidifier 30. The second outlet channel 54 is defined inside the subunit SU. A first end of the second outlet channel 54 is connected to the humidifier 30. A second end of the second outlet channel 54 opens to the outside of the subunit SU.

[0023] As shown in Fig. 1, the CPAP device 10 includes a hose 91 and a mask 92. A first end of the hose 91 is connected to a second end of the second outflow channel 54. The mask 92 is connected to the second end of the hose 91. The mask 92 is attached to cover the nose or mouth of a user 93. Although not shown in the figures, the first end of the hose 91 can also be connected to the downstream flow path 62 in the main unit MU.

[0024] (Air flow path during use) As described above, the subunit SU can be attached to the main unit MU. When the subunit SU is attached to the main unit MU, the flow paths of the main unit MU and the subunit SU are connected to one another. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 3 , the upstream flow path 61 of the main unit MU is connected to a second end of the first outlet flow path 52 of the subunit SU. The downstream flow path 62 of the main unit MU is connected to a first end of the second inlet flow path 53 of the subunit SU. Therefore, when the blower 20 is driven, air taken in from the first inlet flow path 51 passes through the silencer 40, the first outlet flow path 52, and the upstream flow path 61 to the blower 20. The air compressed and delivered by the blower 20 then passes through the downstream flow path 62, the second inlet flow path 53, the second outlet flow path 54, and the hose 91 to the mask 92.

[0025] Although not shown in the drawings, the CPAP device 10 can also be used when the subunit SU is detached from the main unit MU. In this case, air passes through the upstream flow path 61, the blower 20, the downstream flow path 62, and the hose 91 to reach the mask 92.

[0026] (CPAP device silencer) The shape of the silencer 40 and its surrounding configuration will be described below. As shown in Fig. 4, the silencer 40 has an air flow path partitioned inside the subunit SU. Note that Fig. 4 shows a perspective view of a bottom cover 60 that seals the third negative direction Z2 side of the subunit SU. The bottom cover 60 is indicated by a two-dot chain line.

[0027] The above-mentioned first inlet channel 51 extends along the first axis X inside the subunit SU. A first end of the first inlet channel 51 opens on a surface of the subunit SU facing the first negative direction X2. The silencer 40 of the CPAP device 10 has a flow passage 41. The flow passage 41 is a passage through which air flows when the blower 20 is driven. The flow passage 41 is partitioned by a wall portion 44. An upstream end of the flow passage 41 is connected to a second end of the first inlet channel 51.

[0028] The flow passage 41 has a first flow path 41A, a second flow path 41B, a third flow path 41C, a first connecting flow path 41D, and a second connecting flow path 41E. The first flow path 41A extends along the first axis X. An end of the first flow path 41A on the first negative direction X2 side is connected to a second end of the first inlet channel 51. The second flow path 41B extends along the first axis X. The second flow path 41B is aligned with the first flow path 41A in the second positive direction Y1. The second flow path 41B is adjacent to the first flow path 41A with one wall portion 44 between them.

[0029] The third flow path 41C extends along the first axis X. The third flow path 41C is aligned with the second flow path 41B in the second positive direction Y1. A gap is generated between the third flow path 41C and the second flow path 41B in the direction along the second axis Y.

[0030] The first connection flow path 41D extends along the second axis Y. An end of the first connection flow path 41D on the second negative direction Y2 side is connected to an end of the first flow path 41A on the first positive direction X1 side. An end of the first connection flow path 41D on the second positive direction Y1 side is connected to an end of the second flow path 41B on the first positive direction X1 side. Therefore, the first flow path 41A, the first connection flow path 41D, and the second flow path 41B together form a so-called U-shaped flow path.

[0031] The second connection flow path 41E extends along the second axis Y. An end of the second connection flow path 41E on the second negative direction Y2 side is connected to an end of the second flow path 41B on the first negative direction X2 side. An end of the second connection flow path 41E on the second positive direction Y1 side is connected to an end of the third flow path 41C on the first negative direction X2 side. Therefore, the second flow path 41B, the second connection flow path 41E, and the third flow path 41C together form a so-called U-shaped flow path.

[0032] Here, the maximum dimension of the first connection flow path 41D in the direction along the second axis Y is referred to as the first connection flow path length 41DL. Also, the maximum dimension of the second connection flow path 41E in the direction along the second axis Y is referred to as the second connection flow path length 41EL. The first connection flow path length 41DL and the second connection flow path length 41EL are different. Specifically, reflecting the presence of a gap between the second flow path 41B and the third flow path 41C, the second connection flow path length 41EL is longer than the first connection flow path length 41DL.

[0033] The above-mentioned first outlet channel 52 extends along the third axis Z inside the subunit SU. A first end of the first outlet channel 52 is connected to the end of the third flow path 41C on the first positive direction X1 side. A second end of the first outlet channel 52 opens into a surface of the subunit SU facing the first negative direction X2. More specifically, the second end of the first outlet channel 52 opens into the inner surface of the substantially L-shaped subunit SU.

[0034] When the blower 20 of the CPAP device 10 is driven, air flows through the silencer 40. Specifically, the air flows through the first flow path 41A, the first connecting flow path 41D, the second flow path 41B, the second connecting flow path 41E, and the third flow path 41C in this order. Therefore, the second connecting flow path 41E is located closer to the blower 20 than the first connecting flow path 41D in the air flow direction.

[0035] For each flow path, a virtual line tracing the center of the opening of the flow path from the first end to the second end is defined as the central axis of the flow path. If the acute angles formed between the first axis X and the central axis of the flow path are within a range of 0 degrees or more and less than 45 degrees, the flow path is considered to be aligned along the first axis X. In this embodiment, the angles formed between the first axis X and the first flow path 41A to the third flow path 41C are all approximately 0 degrees. The same applies to the relationship between the second axis Y and the flow paths and the relationship between the third axis Z and the flow paths.

[0036] The boundary between the first flow path 41A and the first connection flow path 41D and the boundary between the second flow path 41B and the first connection flow path 41D are defined as follows. Among imaginary planes perpendicular to the first axis X, which is the same direction as the central axis of the first flow path 41A, a plane tangent to an end of the wall portion 44 separating the first flow path 41A and the second flow path 41B closest to the first connection flow path 41D is defined as a first imaginary plane B1. The first connection flow path 41D is located on the first positive direction X1 side of the first imaginary plane B1. Similarly, among imaginary planes perpendicular to the first axis X, a plane tangent to an end of the wall portion 44 separating the second flow path 41B and the third flow path 41C closest to the second connection flow path 41E is defined as a second imaginary plane B2. The second connection flow path 41E is located on the first negative direction X2 side of the second imaginary plane B2.

[0037] (About the silencer's sound-absorbing chamber) 4, the silencer 40 of the CPAP device 10 has a first silencing chamber 42A and a second silencing chamber 42B. The first silencing chamber 42A and the second silencing chamber 42B are spaces through which pressure fluctuations of the air in the flow passage 41 can be transmitted. The first silencing chamber 42A and the second silencing chamber 42B are partitioned by a wall portion 44.

[0038] The first silencing chamber 42A is located between the second flow path 41B and the third flow path 41C in the direction along the second axis Y. The wall portion 44 separating the first silencing chamber 42A and the second connection flow path 41E has a first opening 45A connecting the first silencing chamber 42A and the second connection flow path 41E. The opening area of the first opening 45A is larger than the flow path cross-sectional area of the second connection flow path 41E at a portion connected to the first opening 45A. Here, the flow path cross-sectional area of the second connection flow path 41E refers to the cross-sectional area of the second connection flow path 41E in a direction perpendicular to the central axis of the second connection flow path 41E.

[0039] Of the inner surfaces of the first silencing chamber 42A, the opposing surface OS facing the first opening 45A is not perpendicular to the direction in which the first opening 45A faces. Specifically, the opposing surface OS is a plane inclined with respect to the direction in which the first opening 45A faces. Here, the direction in which the first opening 45A faces is the direction when viewed toward the inner surface of the first silencing chamber 42A so that the apparent area of the opening surface of the first opening 45A is maximized. In this embodiment, the direction in which the first opening 45A faces is the first positive direction X1. That is, the direction perpendicular to the opening surface of the first opening 45A. The opposing surface OS facing the first opening 45A refers to a location on the inner surface of the first silencing chamber 42A where light is projected when the wall portion 44 separating the first silencing chamber 42A and the second connection flow path 41E is orthogonally projected in the direction in which the first opening 45A faces.

[0040] The maximum dimension of the first silencing chamber 42A in the direction along the first axis X is defined as the first silencing chamber length SL, and the maximum dimension of the first silencing chamber 42A in the direction along the second axis Y is defined as the first silencing chamber width SW. The maximum dimension of the second connecting flow path 41E in the direction along the first axis X is defined as the second connecting flow path width 41EW. The maximum dimension of the second flow path 41B in the direction along the second axis Y is defined as the second flow path width 41BW. The maximum dimension of the third flow path 41C in the direction along the second axis Y is defined as the third flow path width 41CW. Here, the first silencing chamber length SL is greater than the second connecting flow path width 41EW. The first silencing chamber width SW is greater than the second flow path width 41BW and the third flow path width 41CW. Furthermore, the first opening width 45AW, which is the maximum dimension of the first opening 45A in the direction along the second axis Y, is smaller than the first silencing chamber width SW.

[0041] The second silencing chamber 42B is located between the second flow path 41B and the third flow path 41C in the direction along the second axis Y. The wall portion 44 separating the second silencing chamber 42B and the third flow path 41C has a second opening 45B connecting the second silencing chamber 42B and the third flow path 41C. The maximum dimension of the second opening 45B in the direction along the first axis X is smaller than the maximum dimension of the second silencing chamber 42B in the direction along the first axis X. The opening area of the second opening 45B is larger than the flow path cross-sectional area of the third flow path 41C. The definition of the flow path cross-sectional area is the same as that of the second connecting flow path 41E.

[0042] Of the inner surfaces of the second silencing chamber 42B, the surface facing the second opening 45B is not perpendicular to the direction in which the second opening 45B is oriented. Specifically, the facing surface of the inner surfaces of the second silencing chamber 42B is a flat surface that is inclined with respect to the direction in which the second opening 45B is oriented.

[0043] The maximum dimension of the second silencing chamber 42B in the direction along the first axis X is larger than the second connecting flow path width 41EW. Furthermore, the maximum dimension of the second silencing chamber 42B in the direction along the second axis Y is larger than the second flow path width 41BW and the third flow path width 41CW. In this embodiment, the maximum dimension of the second silencing chamber 42B in the direction along the second axis Y is equal to the first silencing chamber width SW.

[0044] The silencer 40 of the CPAP device 10 also has sound-absorbing materials 43 arranged in the first silencing chamber 42A and the second silencing chamber 42B. The shape of the sound-absorbing materials 43 substantially matches the shape of each silencing chamber. That is, the sound-absorbing materials 43 fill substantially the entirety of each silencing chamber. The material of the sound-absorbing materials 43 is a porous material. Specifically, the material of the sound-absorbing materials 43 is, for example, urethane foam.

[0045] The silencer 40 of the CPAP device 10 has a film F. The film F closes the first opening 45A. The film F is thinner than the wall 44 separating the first silencing chamber 42A and the second connection flow path 41E. The material of the film F is softer and has a smaller elastic modulus than the wall 44. The material of the film F is a synthetic resin such as polyethylene or polyethylene terephthalate. A film separate from the film F closing the first opening 45A closes the second opening 45B. The film is thinner than the wall 44 separating the second silencing chamber 42B and the third flow path 41C. The material of the film is the same as that of the film F closing the first opening 45A.

[0046] (Effects of this embodiment) (1) In the above embodiment, the first connection flow path length 41DL, which is the maximum dimension of the first connection flow path 41D in the direction along the second axis Y, is different from the second connection flow path length 41EL, which is the maximum dimension of the second connection flow path 41E in the direction along the second axis Y. Since the lengths of the connection flow paths are different in this way, the frequency bands that can be silenced by each connection flow path differ. This makes it possible to expect a noise attenuation effect in various frequency bands.

[0047] The silencer 40 of the CPAP device 10 also has a first silencing chamber 42A. A wall 44 separating the first silencing chamber 42A from the second connecting flow path 41E has a first opening 45A connecting the first silencing chamber 42A to the second connecting flow path 41E. Since an opening connecting to the first silencing chamber 42A is present at the bent portion of the flow path 41, air pressure fluctuations, i.e., noise, are easily propagated into the first silencing chamber 42A. Therefore, a high silencing effect can be achieved in the first silencing chamber 42A.

[0048] (2) In the above embodiment, the silencer 40 of the CPAP device 10 further includes a sound-absorbing material 43 disposed in the first silencing chamber 42A. This facilitates attenuation of noise propagated into the first silencing chamber 42A. That is, a higher sound-absorbing effect can be achieved. Furthermore, the presence of the sound-absorbing material 43 makes it more difficult for air to flow into the first silencing chamber 42A, so the flow of air flowing through the flow passage 41 is less likely to be obstructed. This reduces pressure loss of air flowing through the flow passage 41. The same applies to the second silencing chamber 42B.

[0049] (3) In the above embodiment, the opposing surface OS is not perpendicular to the direction in which the first opening 45A is oriented. Therefore, when the pressure fluctuations of the air transmitted through the first opening 45A are reflected by the opposing surface OS, they are reflected toward a location other than the first opening 45A. In other words, the reflected noise is prevented from leaking to the outside of the first silencing chamber 42A through the first opening 45A. The same applies to the second silencing chamber 42B and the second opening 45B.

[0050] (4) According to the above embodiment, the first silencing chamber width SW and the first silencing chamber length SL are larger than the second flow path width 41BW, the third flow path width 41CW, and the second connecting flow path width 41EW. In other words, the first silencing chamber 42A has a sufficient volume. This makes it easier for noise propagated to the first silencing chamber 42A to remain in the first silencing chamber 42A for a longer period of time. This makes it easier for the noise to attenuate, resulting in a higher silencing effect. The same is true for the second silencing chamber 42B.

[0051] (5) In the above embodiment, the second connection flow path 41E is located closer to the blower 20 than the first connection flow path 41D. In other words, the first silencing chamber 42A is located closer to the blower 20, which is the noise source. This makes it easier for noise to propagate to the first silencing chamber 42A. Therefore, a higher silencing effect can be achieved.

[0052] (6) In the above embodiment, the opening area of the first opening 45A is larger than the flow path cross-sectional area of the second connection flow path 41E. This increases the proportion of noise traveling straight along the flow path 41 that is transmitted to the first silencing chamber 42A. Therefore, a higher silencing effect is obtained. The same applies to the second opening 45B of the second silencing chamber 42B.

[0053] (7) In the above embodiment, the first opening width 45AW is smaller than the first silencing chamber width SW. As a result, even if noise propagating to the first silencing chamber 42A is reflected by the inner surface of the wall portion 44 of the first silencing chamber 42A, it is less likely to leak out of the first opening 45A. Therefore, a higher silencing effect is obtained. The same applies to the maximum dimension of the second opening 45B in the direction along the first axis X and the maximum dimension of the second silencing chamber 42B in the direction along the first axis X.

[0054] (8) In the above embodiment, the first silencing chamber 42A has a film F at the first opening 45A that is thinner than the wall 44 that separates the first silencing chamber 42A and the second connection flow path 41E. Because the film F is thinner than the wall 44, noise propagates to the first silencing chamber 42A. On the other hand, air flowing through the flow path 41 is less likely to enter the first silencing chamber 42A. This makes it possible to reduce pressure loss of air flowing through the flow path 41 without impeding the silencing effect. Furthermore, because the sound-absorbing material 43 arranged in the first silencing chamber 42A is less likely to come into contact with air, odors are less likely to adhere to the sound-absorbing material 43. This is also true for the second silencing chamber 42B.

[0055] (9) In the above embodiment, the silencer 40 of the CPAP device 10 has two silencing chambers, the first silencing chamber 42A and the second silencing chamber 42B. The existence of two silencing chambers in this way makes it possible to reduce noise over a wide frequency band.

[0056] (10) According to the above embodiment, air pressure fluctuations in the second connection flow path 41E are easily transmitted to the first silencing chamber 42A, while air pressure fluctuations in the third flow path 41C are easily transmitted to the second silencing chamber 42B. By reducing noise at different locations in this manner, a high overall silencing effect can be achieved.

[0057] (11) According to the above embodiment, the second silencing chamber 42B is located closer to the blower 20, which is a noise source, than the first silencing chamber 42A. Therefore, noise can be efficiently silenced.

[0058] <Example of change> The above-described embodiment and the following modified examples can be implemented in combination with each other to the extent that no technical contradiction occurs.

[0059] The shapes of the main unit MU and the subunit SU are not important. The shapes of these units can be freely designed as long as they function as the CPAP device 10. The humidifier 30 may be omitted from the configuration of the subunit SU.

[0060] The CPAP device 10 may include additional units in addition to the main unit MU and the sub-unit SU. Alternatively, the CPAP device 10 may be configured as a single unit in which the main unit MU and the sub-unit SU are integrated.

[0061] The silencer 40 of the CPAP device 10 may be located downstream of the blower 20. For example, the downstream flow path 62 of the main unit MU may be configured to connect to the first inlet path 51 of the subunit SU.

[0062] The power supply 101 is not limited to the example of the above embodiment as long as it can supply power to the control unit 100 and the blower 20. For example, the main unit MU may have a terminal for connecting to an AC adapter, and the control unit 100 and the blower 20 may be supplied with power from a commercial power source via the AC adapter.

[0063] The direction in which the first flow path 41A and the second flow path 41B are aligned does not have to coincide with the direction in which the second flow path 41B and the third flow path 41C are aligned. For example, the first flow path 41A and the second flow path 41B may be aligned in the direction along the second axis Y, while the second flow path 41B and the third flow path 41C may be aligned in the direction along the third axis Z.

[0064] There may be four or more flow paths along the first axis X. In this case, for example, there is a third connecting flow path that connects the third flow path 41C and the fourth flow path. In the above embodiment, for convenience, the first flow path 41A, the second flow path 41B, and the third flow path 41C are listed in order from the upstream side, but any flow path may be treated as the "second flow path" and any flow path may be treated as the "third flow path." In other words, if the first silencing chamber 42A exists between any two of the three flow paths in the above embodiment, it can be said that the first silencing chamber 42A is located between the "second flow path" and the "third flow path."

[0065] The shape of the flow passage 41 is not limited to the example in the above embodiment. For example, the wall portion 44 separating the first flow passage 41A, the second flow passage 41B, and the third flow passage 41C is not limited to a straight line. For example, it may be wavy or have multiple protrusions like a suppressor. Furthermore, the inner surface of the wall portion 44 on the flow passage 41 side may be covered with a sound-absorbing material 43.

[0066] The first opening width 45AW may be equal to the first silencing chamber width SW. Even in this case, the effect described in (1) can be obtained. Furthermore, the maximum dimension of the second opening 45B in the direction along the first axis X may be equal to the maximum dimension of the second silencing chamber 42B in the direction along the first axis X. Even in this case, the effects described in (1) and (9) can be obtained.

[0067] The opening area of the first opening 45A may be equal to or smaller than the cross-sectional area of the second connection flow path 41E. Even if the opening area of the first opening 45A is small, the effect described in (1) can be obtained as long as the air pressure fluctuation in the flow path 41 can be transmitted. Furthermore, the opening area of the second opening 45B may be equal to or smaller than the cross-sectional area of the third flow path 41C. For the same reason, the effects described in (1) and (9) can be obtained.

[0068] The facing surface OS of the inner surface of the first silencing chamber 42A that faces the first opening 45A may be perpendicular to the direction in which the first opening 45A is oriented. Even in this case, the effect described in (1) can be obtained. Also, the facing surface of the inner surface of the second silencing chamber 42B that faces the second opening 45B may be perpendicular to the direction in which the second opening 45B is oriented. Even in this case, the effect described in (1) and (9) can be obtained.

[0069] The first silencing chamber length SL may be equal to or less than the second connecting flow path width 41EW. The first silencing chamber width SW may be equal to or less than the second flow path width 41BW, and the first silencing chamber width SW may be equal to or less than the third flow path width 41CW. Even if the first silencing chamber 42A is small, the effect described in (1) can be obtained.

[0070] Furthermore, the maximum dimension of the second silencing chamber 42B in the direction along the first axis X may be equal to or less than the second connecting flow path width 41EW. Furthermore, the maximum dimension of the second silencing chamber 42B in the direction along the second axis Y may be equal to or less than the second flow path width 41BW, or may be equal to or less than the third flow path width 41CW. Even if the second silencing chamber 42B is small, the effects described in (1) and (9) can be obtained.

[0071] The silencer 40 of the CPAP device 10 does not need to have the second silencing chamber 42B. As long as it has the first silencing chamber 42A, the effect described in (1) can be obtained. The silencer 40 of the CPAP device 10 may have three or more silencing chambers. Furthermore, a silencing chamber may be provided between the first flow path 41A and the second flow path 41B in the second axis Y direction. In this case, the position and number of openings in the wall portion 44 separating the silencing chamber from the flow path 41 are arbitrary. However, it is preferable that an opening be provided in the wall portion 44 separating the silencing chamber from the first connection flow path 41D.

[0072] The wall portion 44 separating the second silencing chamber 42B and the third flow path 41C may not have the second opening 45B, and the wall portion 44 separating the second silencing chamber 42B and the second flow path 41B may have the second opening 45B. Alternatively, the wall portion 44 separating the second silencing chamber 42B and the third flow path 41C may have the second opening 45B, and the wall portion 44 separating the second silencing chamber 42B and the second flow path 41B may also have an opening. However, it is preferable to provide an opening in either the wall portion 44 separating the second silencing chamber 42B and the second flow path 41B or the wall portion 44 separating the second silencing chamber 42B and the third flow path 41C.

[0073] The third flow path 41C may be located farther from the blower 20 than the second flow path 41B in the air flow direction. That is, for example, the following configuration may be used: One end of the third flow path 41C is connected to the second end of the first inlet path 51. The second flow path 41B is located on the second positive direction Y1 side with respect to the third flow path 41C, and the first flow path 41A is located on the second positive direction Y1 side with respect to the second flow path 41B. One end of the first flow path 41A is connected to the first end of the first outlet path 52. The second connection flow path 41E connects the other end of the third flow path 41C to one end of the second flow path 41B. The first connection flow path 41D connects the other end of the second connection flow path 41E to the other end of the first flow path 41A.

[0074] In such a configuration, that is, even when the second connection flow path 41E is located farther from the blower 20 than the first connection flow path 41D in the air flow direction, the effect described in (1) can be obtained.

[0075] Furthermore, in the case of such a configuration, that is, in the air flow direction, the third flow path 41C is located farther from the blower 20 than the second flow path 41B, and the wall portion 44 separating the second silencing chamber 42B and the third flow path 41C has the second opening 45B, the effects described in (1) and (9) can be obtained.

[0076] The silencer 40 of the CPAP device 10 does not have to have the sound-absorbing material 43 disposed in the first silencing chamber 42A. Even without the sound-absorbing material 43, a high sound-absorbing effect can be obtained due to the shape of the flow passage 41 and the presence of the first silencing chamber 42A. The same applies to the second silencing chamber 42B.

[0077] The material of the sound-absorbing material 43 is not limited to the example in the above embodiment. For example, the sound-absorbing material 43 may be made of polyester, glass wool, felt, or the like. Any porous material may be used as the sound-absorbing material 43.

[0078] The first opening 45A does not have to be covered with the film F. Even in this case, the effect described in (1) can be obtained. Moreover, the second opening 45B does not have to be covered with the film F. Even in this case, the effects of (1) and (9) can be obtained.

[0079] The material of the film F is not limited to the example in the above embodiment. For example, the film F may be made of paper. <Additional Notes> The technical concepts that can be derived from the above-described embodiments and modifications will be described below.

[0080] [1] The device comprises a flow passage through which air can flow as the blower is driven, and a sound-reducing chamber through which pressure fluctuations of the air in the flow passage can be transmitted, The flow path is a first flow path extending along a first axis; a second flow path extending along the first axis and aligned with the first flow path in a direction perpendicular to the first axis; a third flow path extending along the first axis and aligned with the second flow path in a direction perpendicular to the first axis; a first connecting flow path that connects an end of the first flow path on the positive direction side and an end of the second flow path on the positive direction side, when one of two directions along the first axis is defined as a positive direction and the direction opposite to the positive direction is defined as a negative direction; a second connecting flow path connecting the negative side end of the second flow path and the negative side end of the third flow path, a maximum dimension of the first connection flow path in a direction in which the second flow path and the third flow path are aligned is different from a maximum dimension of the second connection flow path in a direction in which the second flow path and the third flow path are aligned, the muffling chamber is located between the second flow path and the third flow path in a direction in which the second flow path and the third flow path are aligned, A silencer for a CPAP device, wherein a wall portion separating the silencing chamber and the second connecting flow path has an opening connecting the silencing chamber and the second connecting flow path.

[0081] [2] The silencer for a CPAP device according to [1], further comprising a sound-absorbing material disposed in the sound-absorbing chamber.

[0082] [3] The silencer for a CPAP device according to [1] or [2], wherein the opposing surface of the inner surface of the silencing chamber that faces the opening surface of the opening is non-perpendicular to a direction perpendicular to the opening surface.

[0083] [4] a maximum dimension of the muffling chamber in a direction along the first axis is larger than a maximum dimension of the second connecting flow path in a direction along the first axis, A silencer for a CPAP device according to any one of [1] to [3], wherein the maximum dimension of the silencing chamber in the direction in which the second flow path and the third flow path are aligned is greater than the maximum dimension of the second flow path and the third flow path in the direction in which the second flow path and the third flow path are aligned.

[0084] [5] The silencer for the CPAP device according to any one of [1] to [4], wherein the second connection flow path is located closer to the blower than the first connection flow path in the air flow direction.

[0085] [6] The silencer for a CPAP device according to any one of [1] to [5], wherein the opening area of the opening is larger than the cross-sectional area of the second connection flow path.

[0086] [7] A silencer for a CPAP device according to any one of [1] to [6], wherein the maximum dimension of the opening in the direction in which the second flow path and the third flow path are aligned is smaller than the maximum dimension of the silencing chamber in the direction in which the second flow path and the third flow path are aligned.

[0087] [8] a film thinner than a wall separating the silencing chamber and the second connecting flow path; The silencer for a CPAP device according to any one of [1] to [7], wherein the film covers the opening.

[0088] [9] When the silencing chamber is a first silencing chamber and the opening connecting the first silencing chamber and the second connecting flow path is a first opening, a second silencing chamber to which pressure fluctuations of the air in the flow passage can be transmitted; the second silencing chamber is located between the second flow path and the third flow path in a direction in which the second flow path and the third flow path are aligned, The silencer for a CPAP device according to any one of [1] to [8], wherein the wall separating the second silencing chamber and the flow passage has a second opening connecting the second silencing chamber and the flow passage.

[0089]

[10] The silencer of the CPAP device according to [9], wherein the wall portion separating the second silencing chamber and the second flow path, or the wall portion separating the second silencing chamber and the third flow path, has the second opening.

[0090]

[11] the third flow path is located closer to the blower than the second flow path in the air flow direction, The silencer for a CPAP device according to

[10] , wherein a wall portion separating the second silencing chamber and the third flow path has the second opening.

[0091]

[12] The device is provided with a blower that pressurizes and sends air, and a silencer, the silencer includes a flow passage through which air can flow when driven by the blower, and a sound-reducing chamber through which pressure fluctuations of the air in the flow passage can be transmitted; The flow path is a first flow path extending along a first axis; a second flow path extending along the first axis and aligned with the first flow path in a direction perpendicular to the first axis; a third flow path extending along the first axis and aligned with the second flow path in a direction perpendicular to the first axis; a first connecting flow path that connects an end of the first flow path on the positive direction side and an end of the second flow path on the positive direction side, when one of two directions along the first axis is defined as a positive direction and the direction opposite to the positive direction is defined as a negative direction; a second connecting flow path connecting the negative side end of the second flow path and the negative side end of the third flow path, a maximum dimension of the first connection flow path in a direction in which the second flow path and the third flow path are aligned is different from a maximum dimension of the second connection flow path in a direction in which the second flow path and the third flow path are aligned, the muffling chamber is located between the second flow path and the third flow path in a direction in which the second flow path and the third flow path are aligned, A CPAP device in which a wall separating the silencing chamber and the second connecting flow path has an opening that connects the silencing chamber and the second connecting flow path.

[0092]

[13] The CPAP device according to

[12] , wherein the second connection flow path is located closer to the blower than the first connection flow path in the air flow direction.

[0093]

[14] When the silencing chamber is a first silencing chamber and the opening connecting the first silencing chamber and the second connecting flow path is a first opening, a second silencing chamber to which pressure fluctuations of the air in the flow passage can be transmitted; the second silencing chamber is located between the second flow path and the third flow path in a direction in which the second flow path and the third flow path are aligned, a wall portion separating the second silencing chamber and the third flow path has a second opening connecting the second silencing chamber and the flow path, The CPAP device according to

[12] or

[13] , wherein the third flow path is located closer to the blower than the second flow path in the air flow direction. [Explanation of symbols]

[0094] 10…CPAP device MU...Main unit SU...subunit 40...Silencer 44...Wall part 41…Distribution path 41A...First flow path 41B...Second flow path 41BW...Second flow path width 41C...Third flow path 41CW…Third channel width 41D...First connecting flow path 41DL…1st connection channel length 41E...Second connecting flow path 41EL: Second connection channel length 41EW…Second connecting channel width 42A…1st sound deadening room SW…1st silencing chamber width SL…1st sound deadening room manager 42B…Second sound deadening room 45A…1st opening 45AW…1st opening width 45B…Second opening 43...Sound absorbing material OS: Opposite side F...Film

Claims

1. The device comprises a flow passage through which air can flow as the blower is driven, and a sound-reducing chamber through which pressure fluctuations of the air in the flow passage can be transmitted, The flow path is a first flow path extending along a first axis; a second flow path extending along the first axis and aligned with the first flow path in a direction perpendicular to the first axis; a third flow path extending along the first axis and aligned with the second flow path in a direction perpendicular to the first axis; a first connecting flow path connecting an end of the first flow path on the positive direction side and an end of the second flow path on the positive direction side, when one of two directions along the first axis is defined as a positive direction and the direction opposite to the positive direction is defined as a negative direction; a second connecting flow path connecting the negative side end of the second flow path and the negative side end of the third flow path, a maximum dimension of the first connection flow path in a direction in which the second flow path and the third flow path are aligned is different from a maximum dimension of the second connection flow path in a direction in which the second flow path and the third flow path are aligned, the muffling chamber is located between the second flow path and the third flow path in a direction in which the second flow path and the third flow path are aligned, The wall separating the silencing chamber and the second connecting flow path has an opening that connects the silencing chamber and the second connecting flow path. CPAP machine silencer.

2. Further, the sound absorbing material is disposed in the sound absorbing chamber.

10. The silencer of claim 1.

3. The opposing surface of the inner surface of the sound absorbing chamber that faces the opening surface of the opening is not perpendicular to the direction orthogonal to the opening surface. A silencer for a CPAP device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. a maximum dimension of the muffling chamber in a direction along the first axis is larger than a maximum dimension of the second connecting flow path in a direction along the first axis, The maximum dimension of the muffling chamber in the direction in which the second flow path and the third flow path are aligned is larger than the maximum dimension of the second flow path and the third flow path in the direction in which the second flow path and the third flow path are aligned. A silencer for a CPAP device according to claim 1 or 2.

5. The second connection flow path is located closer to the blower than the first connection flow path in the air flow direction. A silencer for a CPAP device according to claim 1 or 2.

6. The opening area of the opening is larger than the cross-sectional area of the second connecting flow path. A silencer for a CPAP device according to claim 1 or 2.

7. The maximum dimension of the opening in the direction in which the second flow path and the third flow path are aligned is smaller than the maximum dimension of the muffling chamber in the direction in which the second flow path and the third flow path are aligned. A silencer for a CPAP device according to claim 1 or 2.

8. a film thinner than a wall separating the silencing chamber and the second connecting flow path; The film closes the opening. A silencer for a CPAP device according to claim 1 or 2.

9. When the silencing chamber is a first silencing chamber and the opening connecting the first silencing chamber and the second connecting flow path is a first opening, a second silencing chamber to which pressure fluctuations of the air in the flow passage can be transmitted; the second silencing chamber is located between the second flow path and the third flow path in a direction in which the second flow path and the third flow path are aligned, The wall separating the second silencing chamber and the flow passage has a second opening connecting the second silencing chamber and the flow passage. A silencer for a CPAP device according to claim 1 or 2.

10. The wall portion separating the second silencing chamber and the second flow path or the wall portion separating the second silencing chamber and the third flow path has the second opening.

10. A silencer for a CPAP device according to claim 9.

11. the third flow path is located closer to the blower than the second flow path in the air flow direction, The wall separating the second silencing chamber and the third flow path has the second opening.

11. A silencer for a CPAP device according to claim 10.

12. The device is provided with a blower that pressurizes and sends air, and a silencer, the silencer includes a flow passage through which air can flow when driven by the blower, and a sound-reducing chamber through which pressure fluctuations of the air in the flow passage can be transmitted; The flow path is a first flow path extending along a first axis; a second flow path extending along the first axis and aligned with the first flow path in a direction perpendicular to the first axis; a third flow path extending along the first axis and aligned with the second flow path in a direction perpendicular to the first axis; a first connecting flow path connecting an end of the first flow path on the positive direction side and an end of the second flow path on the positive direction side, when one of two directions along the first axis is defined as a positive direction and the direction opposite to the positive direction is defined as a negative direction; a second connecting flow path connecting the negative side end of the second flow path and the negative side end of the third flow path, a maximum dimension of the first connection flow path in a direction in which the second flow path and the third flow path are aligned is different from a maximum dimension of the second connection flow path in a direction in which the second flow path and the third flow path are aligned, the muffling chamber is located between the second flow path and the third flow path in a direction in which the second flow path and the third flow path are aligned, The wall separating the silencing chamber and the second connecting flow path has an opening that connects the silencing chamber and the second connecting flow path. CPAP device.

13. The second connection flow path is located closer to the blower than the first connection flow path in the air flow direction.

13. The CPAP device of claim 12.

14. When the silencing chamber is a first silencing chamber and the opening connecting the first silencing chamber and the second connecting flow path is a first opening, a second silencing chamber to which pressure fluctuations of the air in the flow passage can be transmitted; the second silencing chamber is located between the second flow path and the third flow path in a direction in which the second flow path and the third flow path are aligned, a wall portion separating the second silencing chamber and the third flow path has a second opening connecting the second silencing chamber and the flow path, The third flow path is located closer to the blower than the second flow path in the air flow direction.

14. The CPAP device of claim 13.

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