Humidifier

Abstract

The present invention relates to a humidification device having a compartment for receiving a removable humidification chamber. The device has an actuator that can be operated by a user to move the humidification chamber from an operative position to a release position. In the operative position, the humidification chamber is received by the humidification compartment and forms part of a flow path through the humidification device. In the release position, the humidification chamber is displaced outward from the operative position, allowing a user to more easily remove the humidification chamber from the device.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 889,288, filed August 20, 2019, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by direct reference.

[0002] The present invention relates to a humidification device that can be used to humidify a gas stream that can be delivered to a patient for respiratory assistance, such as for positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy. [Background technology]

[0003] Humidification devices often have a humidification chamber that contains a volume of water. The gas stream is humidified as it passes through the humidification chamber. To make the process of emptying, cleaning, and refilling the humidification chamber convenient for the user, the chamber is typically removable from the rest of the device. A problem with existing devices is that removing the humidification chamber can be physically difficult, especially for users with poor manual dexterity. Therefore, there is a need for an alternative device in which inserting and removing the chamber from the device is intuitive and / or relatively straightforward. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] One aspect of the present invention is a humidification device comprising: a blower for generating a gas flow; a removable humidification chamber containing water; a humidification compartment for receiving a humidification chamber; an actuator operable by a user to move the humidification chamber from an operating position, in which the humidification chamber is received by the humidification compartment and a flow path is provided for gas flow, including a portion extending through the humidification chamber, to a release position, in which the humidification chamber is displaced outward from the operating position and the user can remove the humidification chamber from the device; The present invention relates to a humidifying device, including:

[0005] The flow path can include a first portion extending from the blower and a second portion extending to the device outlet port. The first and second portions of the flow path can exist regardless of the position of the humidification chamber. When the humidification chamber is in the operating position, the flow path is complete through the device from the blower to the device outlet port.

[0006] Another aspect of the present invention is a humidification device comprising: a blower for generating a gas flow; a device outlet port that allows delivery of gas to the patient; a removable humidification chamber containing water; a humidification compartment for receiving a humidification chamber; a flow path through the device from the blower to the device outlet port; an actuator operable by a user to move the humidification chamber from an operating position, in which the humidification chamber is received by the humidification compartment and forms part of a flow path through the humidification device, to a release position, in which the humidification chamber is displaced outwardly from the operating position, allowing a user to remove the humidification chamber from the device; The present invention relates to a humidifying device, including:

[0007] The apparatus may include a powered device operable to heat water in the humidification chamber when the humidification chamber is in the operating position.

[0008] The actuator can position the powered device relative to the humidification chamber in an operating position such that the powered device is operable.

[0009] The humidification chamber may have a thermally conductive heater base and the humidification compartment may have a heater element, the actuator urging the heater element against the heater base when the humidification chamber is in the operating position.

[0010] The humidification compartment may have a flow path exit port, hereinafter referred to as the exit port, in communication with the outlet of a blower that generates the flow of breathable gas.

[0011] The device exit port can be a housing exit port. For example, the housing exit port can be in a humidification compartment.

[0012] The device exit port can be in the humidification chamber, for example, in the lid of the humidification chamber.

[0013] The humidification compartment may have a flow path inlet port, hereinafter referred to as the inlet port, which may be in communication with a gas flow conduit that supplies a gas flow to the user, or a device outlet port to which a gas flow conduit may be connected.

[0014] The humidification chamber may have a chamber inlet and a chamber outlet, where the chamber inlet communicates with the outlet port and the chamber outlet communicates with the inlet port.

[0015] When the humidification chamber is in the operating position, the flow path is sealed and extends from the blower, through the humidification chamber, to the device exit port or gas flow conduit.

[0016] The first portion of the flow path may be sealed to the humidification chamber when in the operating position.

[0017] The second portion of the flow path can be sealed to the humidification chamber when in the operating position. The second portion can be within a housing. The housing can define a humidification compartment, and the device outlet port can be in the housing.

[0018] If the device outlet port is in the humidification chamber, the second portion of the flow path may be located within the humidification chamber.

[0019] In the unlocked position, a first portion of the flow path can be blocked from the humidification chamber.

[0020] In the unlocked position, the second portion of the flow path can be blocked from the humidification chamber. That is, the flow path between the humidification chamber and the first and second portions of the flow path can be unsealed when the humidification chamber is in the unlocked position. When the flow path is blocked, there is no effective flow communication between the humidification chamber and the humidification compartment.

[0021] The device may also include a movable base to which the actuator is operatively connected, the humidification chamber being movable from an activated position to a deactivated position while positioned on the base.

[0022] In one example, a user can manually move the humidification chamber from a release position to an operating position. In this situation, the actuator can be in a deactivated state, such as turned off or disconnected, or the actuator can have a passive mode. The actuator can also have a force or resistance, and the user presses the humidification chamber against the actuator.

[0023] In another example, a user may operate an actuator to move the humidification chamber from a release position to an active position.

[0024] The humidification chamber is movable upwardly and downwardly between a release position and an operating position.

[0025] The humidification compartment may have a recess with an upwardly facing opening, hereinafter referred to as the top opening, that receives the humidification chamber.

[0026] In one example, the base can move within the compartment as the humidification chamber moves between the release position and the operating position.

[0027] The humidification chamber moves between an operating position and a released position, the release distance may be in the range of 2 to 20 cm, preferably in the range of 3 to 10 cm, and even more preferably in the range of 4 to 10 cm.

[0028] In the operating position, the humidification chamber defines another portion of the flow path.

[0029] In the operating position, the humidification chamber can be positioned so that it does not protrude from the humidification compartment. In one example, in the operating position, an outer surface of the humidification chamber, such as a chamber lid, can be flush with the humidification compartment.

[0030] In the operating position, the humidification chamber may be located within the humidification compartment.

[0031] The humidification chamber may have a grip that protrudes from the humidification compartment when the humidification chamber is in the release position, in other words, in the release position, the grip of the humidification chamber protrudes from the humidification compartment so that a user can manually remove the humidification chamber from the compartment by holding the grip.

[0032] In the operating position, the handle can be located within the humidification compartment, i.e., the handle can be hidden from view.

[0033] The gripping portion may include a portion of the outer sidewall of the chamber that extends outside the opening of the humidification compartment.

[0034] The gripping portion may include an upper peripheral portion of an outer sidewall of the chamber.

[0035] The gripping portion may include a cover over the humidification chamber.

[0036] The grip portion can have finger recesses sized to receive the tips of the user's fingers.

[0037] The grip portion can have a friction surface that has higher friction against the user's hand compared to the adjacent surfaces of the humidification chamber. For example, the friction-inducing surface can have structures such as corrugations, ridges, troughs, and ribs.

[0038] The gripping portion can also comprise a resiliently compressible material, such as a rubberized material, closed cell foam, or a material comprising silicone.

[0039] The grip portion may include at least one handle extending from the humidification chamber.

[0040] The actuator may be operable by a user to control movement of the base to move the humidification chamber from an activated position to a released position.

[0041] The actuator may be operable by a user to control movement of the humidification chamber disposed on the base from an operating position in which the humidification chamber does not protrude from the humidification component to a released position in which the humidification chamber protrudes from the humidification compartment.

[0042] The actuator may be operable to move the base a release distance.

[0043] For example, the actuator may be operable to move the base, and thus the humidification chamber, between the activated and deactivated positions over a range of 1 to 20 cm (i.e., 0.39 to 7.86 inches). Even more preferably, the actuator may be operable to move the base, and thus the humidification chamber, over a range of 2 to 10 cm, 3 to 10 cm, or 4 to 10 cm, or 4 to 6 cm (i.e., 1.57 to 2.36 inches).

[0044] A user can operate the actuator by applying a first force to the humidification chamber to move the humidification chamber from the release position to the activation position. The actuator can also be selectively operated by a user to move the humidification chamber from the activation position to the release position.

[0045] The actuator may be any suitable non-powered actuator, such as a biasing device that biases the base to move the humidification chamber from the activated position towards the released position.

[0046] The biasing device can be loaded when the humidification chamber is in the operating position and relatively unstressed when the humidification chamber is in the released position. When the biasing device is loaded, it is stressed and when it is unloaded it is relatively unstressed.

[0047] The biasing device may be such that the humidification chamber is unstressed when in the operating and released positions, and relatively loaded when transitioning between the operating and released positions.

[0048] The actuator is selectively operable by a user to first apply a second biasing force to the humidification chamber to move the humidification chamber inwardly to the operative position, and then remove the second biasing force to move the humidification chamber from the operative position to the released position. By pushing the humidification chamber inward, the humidification chamber moves further into the humidification compartment.

[0049] When the second pressure force is removed, the actuator is operable to move the base, and in turn, the humidification chamber, from the activated position to the released position.

[0050] The base may be held in a fixed position within the humidification compartment when the humidification chamber is in the operating position.

[0051] The biasing device may include any one or more devices such as a compression spring, an extension spring, a torsion spring, a disc spring, a gas strut, a pneumatic capacitor, a hydraulic capacitor, or a scissors spring.

[0052] In one example, the biasing device can include multiple springs arranged in parallel, for example, the biasing device can include 4 to 8 compression springs operably connected to the base.

[0053] In another example, the actuator can be any suitable powered actuator. Examples of suitable powered actuators include a powered screw ram, a powered wheel, a powered rack and pinion, and a powered slider, a powered pulley and cable system, a powered piston and cylinder assembly, or a powered cam assembly. In these examples, the powered drive can be an electric drive, a pneumatic drive, a hydraulic drive, or the like.

[0054] The actuator may be operated by a controller such as a button, switch or control knob that controls movement of the base and thus movement of the humidification chamber between an activated position and an activated position. For example, a controller may be used to control operation of the actuator when in the form of a powered actuator.

[0055] In another example, the base can move laterally between an operating position and a released position. For example, the base can form part of a drawer that moves horizontally. In this example, the compartment can have an opening in a sidewall that receives the humidification chamber. When the humidification chamber is placed in the released position, the base can extend through the opening in the sidewall, allowing a user to manually remove and replace the humidification chamber on the base. In this case, the actuator can apply a force or resistance in a horizontal plane.

[0056] The apparatus can include a powered device that heats water in the humidification chamber to increase or control humidification of the gas stream. The powered device can include a heater assembly including a heating element disposed in the humidification chamber and / or a heater plate in thermal engagement with the humidification chamber.

[0057] For example, the powered heater assembly may include a powered heater plate on a base that can be energized to heat, and the humidification chamber may have a thermally conductive heater base that is positioned over the heater plate so that they are in thermal engagement.

[0058] For example, a powered heater assembly may include a powered heating element disposed within the humidification chamber and an electrical coupling that electrically connects the heating element to a power source. The electrical coupling may be any suitable connector, including fittings, sockets, shielded and unshielded fittings, fittings on leads, etc.

[0059] The electrical connections can be made by placing the humidification chamber in a precise location on the base.

[0060] For example, the electrical coupling may include an electrically active central post on the base that is received by a socket in the bottom wall of the humidification chamber.

[0061] For example, the electrical coupling may include connectors on the humidification chamber and humidification compartment that are electrically connected when the humidification chamber is received by the compartment in the operating position and electrically disconnected when the humidification chamber is in the released position.

[0062] For example, connectors can be located on the sidewalls of the humidification chamber and on the portion of the humidification compartment facing the humidification chamber. Ideally, the connectors on the humidification chamber are located at a height above the base of the humidification compartment. By locating the electrical connections on the sidewalls of the humidification chamber rather than on the bottom wall below, the risk of water ingress into the electrical connectors can be reduced.

[0063] In another example, the connector on the humidification chamber can be located on or towards the bottom wall of the humidification chamber, with the connector on the humidification compartment positioned to connect when the humidification chamber is in the operating position.

[0064] In one embodiment, the powered device may include an induction generator in the humidification compartment and a cooperating heater base of the humidification chamber that heats upon exposure to energy from the induction generator to heat water in the humidification chamber. The term "induction generator" will be understood to encompass a device that generates high frequency alternating current through an electromagnet that generates current in a target resistive material, such as the heater base of the humidification chamber, thereby generating heat in the humidification chamber. An advantage of using induction to heat water in the humidification chamber is that the efficiency of heating the water is not dependent on conductive thermal engagement with the humidification chamber.

[0065] The device may include a sealing assembly that extends between the humidification compartment and the humidification chamber when the humidification chamber is in the operating position and that seals the flow path.

[0066] The sealing assembly may also provide a seal between the top opening of the humidification compartment and the humidification chamber when the humidification chamber is in the operating position.

[0067] The sealing assembly may include a chamber sealing member extending around a portion of the outer wall of the humidification chamber. Preferably, the chamber sealing member is located around an upper portion of the outer wall of the humidification chamber.

[0068] The chamber sealing member may be located on the periphery of the upper outer wall of the humidification chamber.

[0069] In one example, the chamber sealing member may be in sealing engagement with an inner wall of the humidification compartment when the humidification chamber is in the operating position.

[0070] The sealing assembly may include a compartment sealing member extending around the periphery of the upwardly facing opening of the humidification compartment. Preferably, the compartment sealing member may be located around the periphery of the top opening of the humidification compartment.

[0071] A compartment sealing member may be positioned around the periphery of the top opening of the humidification compartment.

[0072] In one example, the compartment sealing member may be in sealing engagement with the humidification chamber when the humidification chamber is in the operating position, in which case the humidification chamber may or may not have a chamber sealing member.

[0073] Likewise, it is possible for the compartment seal to exist without the chamber seal.

[0074] In one example, the chamber sealing member and the compartment sealing member may be in sealing engagement to seal the humidification compartment when the humidification chamber is in the operating position.

[0075] The chamber sealing member may be located on any suitable surface of the humidification chamber, including any one or combination of an upright surface, a horizontal surface, or an angled surface that extends at an angle to the upright surface.

[0076] Similarly, the compartment sealing member may be located on any suitable surface of the humidification compartment, including any one or combination of an upright surface, a horizontal surface, or an angled surface that extends at an angle relative to the upright surface.

[0077] The sealing assembly may also include a flow path sealing member that seals the connection between the outlet port of the humidification compartment and the chamber inlet.

[0078] For example, the sealing assembly may include: i) an outlet port seal at the outlet port of the humidification compartment; ii) an inlet seal at the chamber inlet; It may include at least one of:

[0079] Either or both of the outlet port sealing member and the inlet sealing member may extend around the chamber inlet and the compartment outlet port and seal the flow path extending between the humidification compartment and the humidification chamber when the humidification chamber is in an operating position.

[0080] The sealing assembly may include a flow path sealing member that seals between the chamber outlet and the compartment inlet port.

[0081] For example, the sealing assembly may include: i) an inlet port seal at the inlet port of the humidification compartment; ii) an outlet seal at the chamber outlet; It may include at least one of:

[0082] Either or both of the inlet port sealing member and the outlet sealing member may extend around the inlet port of the compartment and the chamber outlet and seal the flow path extending between the humidification compartment and the humidification chamber when the humidification chamber is in an operating position.

[0083] It will be appreciated that the flow path may be sealed by one or a combination of the sealing options as outlined above. For example, the flow path may be sealed by one of the following: a) A seal around the top opening of the humidification compartment and the humidification chamber. One of the advantages of creating this seal is that the humidification compartment and the humidification chamber can both be pressurized to similar pressures, thereby allowing for some imperfections in the seal between the compartment exit port and the chamber inlet, or some imperfections in the seal between the compartment inlet port and the chamber outlet. b) Seals around the compartment exit port and chamber inlet, and a seal around the compartment inlet port at the chamber outlet. One of the advantages of creating this seal is that the seal between the top opening of the humidification compartment and the humidification chamber can be redundant. c) Seals around the top opening of the humidification compartment and the humidification chamber, as well as seals around the compartment exit port and chamber inlet. d) Seals around the top opening of the humidification compartment and around the humidification chamber, as well as seals around the compartment inlet port and chamber outlet.

[0084] The apparatus may have a first coupling device acting between the humidification chamber and the humidification compartment.

[0085] The first coupling device may be operable to releasably lock the humidification chamber in the operative position.

[0086] The first biasing force can actuate the first coupling device to move the humidification chamber from the release position to the operative position and releasably lock the humidification chamber in the operative position.

[0087] The first pressing force can move the humidification chamber inward to an operating position to operate / actuate the first coupling device, and when the first pressing force is removed, the actuator can move the humidification chamber to the operating position where it is releasably locked.

[0088] The actuator can apply a force or resistance toward the opening when the humidification chamber is in the operating position, and the first coupling device can resist that force to secure the humidification chamber in place within the humidification compartment, thereby pressing the heater plate against the humidification chamber. One advantage this provides is that increasing the force applied by the actuator can increase the degree of thermal engagement between the heater plate and the humidification chamber. The force or resistance can act in a direction from the operating position to the released position. That is, as the humidification chamber moves up and down within the humidification compartment, the force can press the heater element upward onto the humidification chamber.

[0089] The humidification chamber may have a thermally conductive heater base, the humidification compartment may have a heater element, and the apparatus may have at least one first coupling device acting between the humidification chamber and the humidification compartment and operable to releasably lock the humidification chamber in an operating position, wherein the actuator applies an acting force to the humidification chamber while the first coupling device resists the acting force to fix the humidification chamber in the operating position, thereby pressing the heater element against the heater base.

[0090] The heater element may include a heater plate.

[0091] The first coupling device can be unlocked by the action of a second biasing force which moves the humidification chamber inwardly into the operating position.

[0092] The first coupling device has a movable locking member, a biasing member that biases the locking member toward the intermediate position, and a fixed cam having a working surface that engages with the locking member, moving the locking member away from the intermediate position when the humidification chamber moves from the released position toward the operating position, the working surface including a concave surface that receives the locking member, and the locking member can be disengaged from the concave surface by moving the humidification chamber inward into the humidification compartment.

[0093] In another example, the fixed cam can be located on an inner surface of the humidification compartment and the locking member can be connected to the humidification chamber.

[0094] In this case, the concave surface of the fixed cam may face inwardly of the humidification compartment, such as towards the floor of the humidification compartment, or in other words, in a direction parallel to the movement of the humidification chamber from the release position to the operating position.

[0095] In another example, the locking member can be located on an inner surface of the humidification compartment and the fixed cam can be connected to the humidification chamber.

[0096] In this case, the concave surface may face towards the outside of the humidification compartment, in other words, in a direction parallel to the movement of the humidification chamber from the operative position to the deactivated position.

[0097] The biasing member may provide an increasing resistance force as the locking member slides over the fixed cam as the humidification chamber moves towards the operating position.

[0098] Additionally, the actuator may also have a force or resistance against which the user pushes when moving the humidification chamber towards the operating position.

[0099] The biasing member may urge the locking member into the recess when the humidification chamber is in the operative position.

[0100] The actuator may help to retain the locking member within the recess of the fixed cam by applying a force or resistance to the humidification chamber in a direction from the released position to the activated position.

[0101] The actuator may be operable to move the humidification chamber from the activated position towards the deactivated position when the first coupling device is deactivated.

[0102] The locking member may be a protrusion extending from the flexible arm.

[0103] A plurality of first coupling devices may be disposed between the humidification chamber and the humidification compartment, and in this case, the first coupling devices may be disposed at equal intervals around the humidification chamber and the humidification compartment.

[0104] The apparatus may include a second coupling device acting between the base and the humidification compartment to releasably lock the position of the base when the humidification chamber is in the operating position.

[0105] The second coupling device can be released by a second pressure force that moves the humidification chamber (and base) inward, thereby allowing the actuator to move the base and humidification chamber to a released position.

[0106] The second coupling device may include a protrusion connected to the actuator, the protrusion being receivable by the opening when the humidification chamber is in the operating position, and the protrusion being disengageable from the opening by a second pressing force.

[0107] The second coupling device can be connected to the biasing device.

[0108] The device may have a lid that extends over the opening of the humidification compartment.

[0109] The lid can move between an open position and a closed position and sealingly engage the humidification compartment to seal the compartment in the closed position. In one example, the lid can press against the humidification chamber, thereby holding the heater base against the heater element.

[0110] The humidification chamber may also have a chamber lid that can open and close the humidification chamber.

[0111] Another aspect of the present invention is a method for producing a semiconductor device comprising: a removable humidification chamber containing water; a humidification compartment for receiving a humidification chamber; a flow path for gas flow; a loader having an actuator and a base on which a humidification chamber can be positioned, the actuator being operable by a user to move the base to move the humidification chamber from i) an operating position in which the humidification chamber is received by the humidification compartment and is in communication with the flow path to allow gas flow through the humidification chamber, to ii) a release position in which the humidification chamber can be removed from the humidification compartment by the user; The present invention relates to a humidifying device including:

[0112] Another aspect of the present invention is a humidification device comprising: a blower for generating a gas flow; a flow path for gas flow; a humidification compartment capable of receiving a removable humidification chamber; an actuator for moving the humidification chamber, operable by a user to move the humidification chamber, whereby the humidification chamber: i) from an operating position in which the humidification chamber is received by the humidification compartment and the flow path is in communication with the humidification chamber to allow gas flow therethrough; ii) the humidification chamber is displaced outward from the operating position to a release position where the user can remove the humidification chamber from the humidification compartment; An actuator that moves, The present invention relates to a humidifying device including:

[0113] Another aspect of the present invention is a humidification device comprising: a blower for generating a gas flow; a device outlet port that allows delivery of gas to the patient; a removable humidification chamber containing water and including a thermally conductive heater base; a humidification compartment that receives the humidification chamber and includes a heater element; a flow path through the device from the blower to the device outlet port; an actuator for moving the humidification chamber from an operating position, in which the humidification chamber is received by the humidification compartment and forms part of a flow path through the humidification device, to a release position, in which the humidification chamber is displaced outward from the operating position and a user can remove the humidification chamber from the device, the actuator biasing the heater element against the heater base in the operating position; The present invention relates to a humidifying device, including:

[0114] The humidification device described in paragraphs

[0111] to

[0113] may include any one or combination of the features described herein.

[0115] Throughout this specification, the terms "humidification compartment" and "compartment" are used interchangeably. Similarly, the terms "humidification chamber" and "chamber" are used interchangeably, and the terms "humidification device" and "device" are also used interchangeably.

[0116] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are summarized as follows: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0117] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a respiratory device including a device having a humidification compartment, a removable humidification chamber positioned within the compartment in an operative position, an actuator operable by a user to move the humidification chamber from the operative position to a released position, a blower to generate a flow of breathable gas, and a conduit to supply the humidified gas flow to a user. [Figure 2] 2 is a schematic perspective view of the device shown in FIG. 1 with the humidification chamber in an operating position with the top of the humidification chamber flush with the top of the humidification compartment. [Figure 3]3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the device shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 with a user initially loading the humidification chamber into the compartment; FIG. [Figure 4] 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the device shown in FIG. 3 with the humidification chamber positioned in a release position with the chamber protruding from the top of the compartment and a user applying a first pressure in the direction of arrow A. [Figure 5] 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the device shown in FIG. 4, in which a first biasing force has moved the humidification chamber inward from the release position, past the operating position, to an innermost position (i.e., to a bottommost position) in engagement with the first coupling device. [Figure 6] 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the device shown in Figure 5 after the user has stopped applying the first pressure and the humidification chamber is releasably locked in the operative position by the first and / or second coupling device. The humidification chamber moves from its innermost position as shown in Figure 5 to its operative position as shown in Figure 6 under the action of the actuator. [Figure 7] 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the device shown in FIG. 6, where a user applies a second pressing force in the direction of arrow A to move the humidification chamber inward from the operating position to an innermost position that separates the first and / or second coupling devices. [Figure 8] 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the device shown in FIG. 7 after the user has stopped applying the second pressure, causing the actuator to move the humidification chamber from the activated position to the released position. [Figure 9] 1 , according to another example, having a first coupling device that releasably locks the humidification chamber in an operative position within the compartment. The compartment walls are shown in a transparent manner, and several details, including features related to gas flow and the chamber lid, have been omitted to maintain clarity of the illustration. The humidification chamber is shown in the unlocked position, with three first coupling devices spaced around the chamber. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a side view of the device shown in FIG. 9, with the humidification chamber shown in the unlocked position. [Figure 11]10 is a side view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 9 including a humidification chamber, with the first coupling device releasably coupling the humidification chamber in an operative position. [Figure 12] 10 is a side view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 9 including the humidification chamber, with the humidification chamber pushed inward from the operating position to release the first coupling device. FIG. [Figure 13] 10 is a more detailed view of the first coupling device shown in FIG. 9 and the path traveled by the locking member of the first coupling device. [Figure 14] 9 is a schematic perspective view of the device shown in FIG. 8 with the humidification chamber in an unlocked position and having a first sealing member around the upper portion of the chamber, according to one example. [Figure 15] 9 is a schematic perspective view of the device shown in FIG. 8 according to another example, with the humidification chamber in an unlocked position and having a second sealing member around the opening of the humidification compartment. [Figure 16] 9 is a schematic perspective view of the device shown in FIG. 8 according to another example, with the humidification chamber in an unlocked position and having a first sealing member around the upper portion of the humidification chamber and a second sealing member around the opening of the humidification compartment. [Figure 17] 1 to 13, in accordance with an example, where the top surfaces of the humidification chamber and compartment are vertically oriented. The first sealing member and / or the second sealing member shown in Figures 14 to 16 may be positioned in a vertical plane. [Figure 18] 1-13 are schematic cross-sectional views of the device shown in Figures 1-13, according to an example, in which the top surfaces of the humidification chamber and compartment are disposed at an angle relative to the vertical. The first sealing member and / or second sealing member shown in Figures 14-16 may be disposed at an angle. [Figure 19] 1 to 13, in which the top surfaces of the humidification chamber and compartment are horizontally disposed. The first sealing member and / or the second sealing member shown in FIGS. 14 to 16 may be disposed on a horizontal surface. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0118] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described in the following text, including reference numerals corresponding to features shown in the accompanying drawings, although in order to maintain clarity of the drawings, not every reference numeral may be included in each drawing.

[0119] FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram illustrating a respiratory device 10 comprising a humidification device 11 including a humidification compartment 12 and a removable humidification chamber 14 received by the humidification compartment 12. The device 11 has a housing 13 that houses a blower 17, a portion of the housing defining the humidification compartment 12 including an upper opening 31 that allows the humidification compartment 12 to receive the humidification chamber 14. The housing 13 also defines a portion of a flow path 42 that conveys the gas flow 15 from the blower 17. The humidification compartment 12 includes an actuator 16 that is operable by a user 18 to move the humidification chamber 14 from an activated position to a deactivated position. The humidification chamber 14 is shown in FIG. 1 in the activated position, in which position it forms part of the flow path 42. The chamber 14 also contains a quantity of water that humidifies the gas flow 15 passing through the humidification chamber 14. The humidification device 11 also has a conduit 23 that exits or is connected to the housing 13 at the housing exit port 41 for carrying the flow of humidified breathable gas to the user.

[0120] The housing 13 also has an air intake 21 in an outer wall through which the blower receives gas. The outlet of the blower is sealingly connected to a passage 22 that extends to an outlet port 24. As shown in FIG. 1, when the humidification chamber 14 is in the operating position, the outlet port 24 communicates with a chamber inlet 25, which in turn is in fluid communication with the blower 17.

[0121] The humidification chamber 14 also includes a chamber outlet 26 that communicates with an inlet port 27 of the humidification compartment 12, which in turn communicates with a housing outlet 41 to which a conduit 23 is connected to convey a flow of humidified gas to the user 18.

[0122] When the humidification chamber 14 is in the operating position, the outlet port 24 may connect to or contact the chamber inlet 25, and the inlet port 27 may connect to or contact the chamber outlet 26 to provide flow communication. In other words, the humidification chamber 14 forms part of the flow path 42 when disposed in the operating position.

[0123] When the humidification chamber 14 is in the operating position, the outlet port 24 can be spaced from the chamber inlet 25 and / or the inlet port 27 can be spaced from the chamber outlet 26, and flow communication therebetween still occurs due to the seal between the humidification compartment 12 and the humidification chamber 14, as shown, for example, in Figures 14-17. However, it will be appreciated that a seal between the humidification compartment 12 and the humidification chamber 14 can be provided even when the outlet port 24 seals against the chamber inlet 25 and the chamber outlet 26 seals against the inlet port 27.

[0124] The water level in the humidification chamber 14 can be replenished as needed, and the humidification chamber 14 should also be cleaned to maintain hygiene standards. Both tasks are typically performed by the user 18 of the device 10, i.e., the patient, rather than a medical professional such as a doctor or nurse, especially when the device is used in a home environment. However, the user 18 is often elderly and may have impaired hand mobility due to other ailments, such as arthritis, and therefore requires that the humidification chamber 14 be easily removed and reloaded.

[0125] To address this need, the actuator 16 of the device 11 is controlled and operated by a user to move the humidification chamber 14 upward within the humidification compartment 12 from a lowered, operating position to a raised, released position. According to a preferred embodiment, the actuator 16 is an unpowered actuator 16 that includes a pair of springs (not individually shown) disposed between the floor 29 of the humidification compartment 12 and the base 28 to bias the base 28 upward in the direction of arrow B, as shown in Figure 8. In another embodiment, the actuator 16 may be a powered actuator, such as a slider driven by an electric motor.

[0126] Although not shown, the base 28 can be positioned within an aperture in a floor 29 of the compartment 12, and in the operating position, the base 28 can be positioned flush with or below the level of the floor 29. In this position, the actuator 16 can be positioned between the periphery of the base 28 and the periphery of the aperture.

[0127] 4 and 8 show the humidification chamber 14 on the base 28 in the unlocked position.

[0128] FIG. 6 shows the humidification chamber 14 on the base 28 in the operating position.

[0129] Figure 3 shows the user 18 manually loading the humidification chamber 14 onto the base 28, and Figure 4 shows the user applying a first force to the humidification chamber 14 in the direction of arrow A, i.e., toward the floor 29 of the compartment 12. The first force moves the base 28 and humidification chamber 14 downward within the humidification compartment 12 to a bottom-out position, inside the operating position, as shown in Figure 5. By moving the humidification chamber 14 to the bottom-out position, the user 18 activates the first coupling device 35.

[0130] In other words, the user 18 activates the first coupling device 35 by moving the humidification chamber 14 from the released position to its lowest position. Although not shown, it will be understood that the first coupling device 35 can be operated by the user 18 by moving the humidification chamber 14 from the released position to any position inside the released position. Another possible variation, not shown, is that the first pressing force A can be applied directly to the actuator 16, or indirectly to the actuator 16, for example, via a handle extending from the base 28 rather than by pressing on the humidification chamber 14.

[0131] Although not shown, first coupling device 35 may be a push latch device having a protrusion that is received within an opening, for example, by moving the base inwardly to a lowest position in an operating position, such as that shown in Figure 5. Preferred details of first coupling device 35 are described with reference to Figures 9-13.

[0132] Ideally, the indicator emits an output, such as a visual, tactile or audible output, that notifies the user that the first coupling device 35 has been activated. When the indicator output is detected, the user can thereby cease applying the first pressure and the humidification chamber is moved from the lowest position to the operating position by action of the actuator 16, as shown in Figure 6, where it is releasably locked within the humidification compartment 12.

[0133] To remove the humidification chamber 14 from the compartment 12, the user 18 applies a second pressing force in the direction of arrow A, i.e., toward the floor 29 of the compartment 12 as seen in FIG. 7 , which deactivates the first coupling device 35 and causes the actuator 16 to move the base 28 and humidification chamber 14 upward within the humidification compartment 12 in the direction of arrow B, as shown in FIG. 8 . In particular, the actuator 16 is configured to position the base 28 in a raised position within the humidification compartment 12 such that the top of the humidification chamber 14 extends above the opening 31 of the humidification compartment 12 a release distance that may be, for example, in the range of 1 to 20 cm, and preferably in the range of 4 to 8 cm. The portion of the humidification chamber 14 extending above the opening of the humidification compartment is a gripping portion 32 that the user 18 can easily grasp with their fingers to remove the humidification chamber 14 from the compartment 12. The grip 32 may be any peripheral portion of the outer wall of the chamber 14 that extends above the opening 32 of the humidification compartment 12. Although not shown, the grip 32 may have any suitable contour, including finger recesses and / or undercuts, that allow the user 18 to easily handle the humidification chamber 14. Although not shown, the humidification chamber 14 may also include a handle.

[0134] As best seen in FIG. 1 , the base 28 also includes a heater element 33 that is powered to generate heat. The heater base 34 of the humidification chamber 14 is thermally conductive and, during use, transfers heat from the heater element 33 to the water in the humidification chamber 14, thereby increasing evaporation of the water in the chamber 14 and humidifying the breathable gas flow for delivery to the user 18. However, it will be appreciated that the water in the humidification chamber 14 can be heated via other means. For example, in one example, a heating element can be housed within the humidification chamber 14, and cooperating electrical couplings can be provided between the base 28 and the heating element of the humidification chamber 14. The cooperating electrical couplings are connected when the humidification chamber 14 is positioned on the base 28. In another example, electrical couplings can be provided on the sidewalls of the humidification compartment 12 and the sidewalls of the humidification chamber 14, and are connected when the humidification chamber is in its operating position.

[0135] The first coupling device 35 acts between the humidification chamber 14 and the compartment 12 and is operable to hold the heater base 34 against the heater element 33. This enables the actuator 16 to press the heater element 33 against the heater base 24 to promote thermal engagement therebetween. In other words, the actuator 16 may have the dual purpose of moving the humidification chamber 14 from an activated position to a released position when the first coupling device 35 is deactivated, and pressing the heater element 33 against the heater base 34 when the first coupling device 35 is activated.

[0136] 9 to 13 show details of the first coupling device 35 acting between the humidification chamber 14 and the humidification compartment 12. The first coupling device 35 has a fixed cam 43 attached to the inner surface of the humidification compartment 12 that engages with a locking member 44 including a protrusion attached to the humidification chamber 14, the locking member 44 engaging with the fixed cam 43 as the humidification chamber 14 moves in and out of the humidification compartment 12. In a preferred embodiment, the humidification chamber 14 moves upward and downward between a release position and an operating position, and the locking member 44 is releasably secured to a concave surface 50 at a tip 51 of the fixed cam 43 when the humidification chamber 14 is in the operating position (see FIG. 13).

[0137] The locking member 44 is resiliently movable relative to the humidifier chamber 14 by a biasing member 45 which biases the locking member 44 towards the intermediate position. Ideally, the biasing member 45 comprises a resiliently flexible arm 45 which is attached to the humidifier chamber 14 and is flexible in a direction transverse to the direction of movement of the humidifier chamber 14 between the released and activated positions. The resiliently flexible arm 45 is disposed within a recess 52 in the outer surface of the humidifier chamber 14 and may be fixedly attached to the humidifier chamber 14. The resiliently flexible arm 45 may be formed integrally with the outer continuous surface of the humidifier chamber 14, i.e., without a recess, and / or may be removably connected to the humidifier chamber 14 so that it may be replaced as required.

[0138] It will be appreciated that the flexible arm 45 can have any initial configuration when the locking member 44 is in the intermediate position, including a curved profile such as a curved leaf spring strip, but ideally the arm 45 has a linear longitudinal axis that is parallel to the axis XX in Figure 13 when the arm 45 is in the intermediate position as shown in Figures 9, 10 and 12.

[0139] The flexible arm 45 can be made from any suitable material. Examples include polymeric materials or metallic materials, including steel leaf springs. In other examples, the biasing member can be one or more of a tension spring or a compression spring (not shown).

[0140] The fixed cam 43 has a wedge-shaped body with five working surfaces over which the locking member 44 slides as the humidification chamber 14 moves in and out of the humidification compartment 12. As can be seen in FIG. 13 , the working surfaces of the fixed cam 43 include a first side surface 46 and a second side surface 47, respectively, that extend along the cam 43 from a vertex P1 to outer points P2 and P3. Outer point P2 is located farther from the axis XX than outer point P3. The tip 51 of the fixed cam 43 has a first end surface 48 that extends from the first side surface 46 toward the axis XX at point P2, and a second end surface 49 that extends from the second side surface 47 at point P3. As can be best seen in FIG. 13 , the first end surface 48 extends perpendicular to the axis XX, and the second end surface 49 extends transversely to the axis XX. The tip 51 of the fixed cam 43 also has a retention structure in the form of a concave surface 50 between the first end face 48 and the second end face 49 in which the locking member 44 is releasably positioned when the first coupling device 35 is actuated.

[0141] As the locking member 44 slides over surfaces 46, 47, 48 and 49 of the cam 43, the arm 45 resiliently deflects from axis XX to hold the locking member 44 against surfaces 46, 47, 48 and 49, which can act as an indicator to a user as to whether the first coupling device 35 has been activated. Specifically, as the locking member 44 moves over the first end surface 48 and into the recessed surface 50, the humidification chamber 14 moves upward from a position beyond the operative position to the operative position.

[0142] The procedure for loading and removing the humidification chamber 14 into and from the humidification compartment 12 is as follows: First, the user places the humidification chamber 14 in the humidification compartment 12, and the locking member 44 first comes into contact with the first side 46 of the cam 43 that faces toward the opening of the humidification compartment 12, as shown in Figures 9 and 10. When the locking member 44 comes into contact with the first side 46, the grip portion 32 of the humidification chamber 14 protrudes from the humidification compartment 12.

[0143] The first coupling device 35 is activated by a user pressing the humidification chamber 14 downward from the release position shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 , causing the locking member 44 to slide over the first side 46 and reach point P2. At this stage, the humidification chamber 14 is positioned further inward in the humidification compartment 12 than in the operative position. The slope and contour of the first side 46 and the friction between the locking member 44 and the first side 46 can be selected to provide a desired force and tactile feedback to the user as the humidification chamber 14 is pushed inward. Furthermore, the degree to which the arm 45 deflects affects the amount of force the user must apply to the humidification chamber 14 to activate the first coupling device 35. The displacement of the locking member 44 from axis XX at point P2, represented by arrow D1, determines the maximum deflection of the arm 45 and, therefore, the point at which the resistance force from the arm 45 acting against the humidification chamber 14 moving into the humidification compartment 12 reaches its peak at point P2. Other forces, such as any or a combination of resistance from the actuator 16, the second coupling device 30 if present, or the energization of the heater element 33, can also contribute to the resistance that a user may perceive when they press the humidification chamber 14 into the humidification compartment 12 to activate the first coupling device 35.

[0144] 11 , the arm 45 urges the locking member 44 toward the axis XX, causing the locking member 44 to slide over the first end surface 48 until it is received by the recessed surface 50. As described above, the humidification chamber 14 moves upward as the locking member 44 is received within the recessed surface 50. The second end surface 49 extends away from the apex P1 at an acute angle relative to the edge of the recessed surface 50, thereby providing a barrier or stop against which the locking member 44 abuts. In other words, the recessed surface 50 and the second end surface 49 prevent the locking member 44 from inadvertently separating or disengaging from the recessed surface 50, thereby actuating the first coupling device 35 and locking the humidification chamber 14 in the operative position. When the locking member 44 is in the operative position, it is displaced a distance D2 from the axis XX, and the biasing force from the arm 45 presses the locking member 44 against the recessed surface 50 and the second end wall 49. As mentioned above, other resisting forces in a direction towards the opening 31 of the humidification compartment 12, such as the biasing force of the actuator 16, the second coupling device 30, if present, or the heater element 33, may also be acting on the humidification chamber 14 when it is in the operative position, as shown in FIG. 11 , thereby pressing the locking member 44 into the recessed surface 50.

[0145] Ideally, the position of the fixed cam 43 on the humidification compartment 12, the length of the arm 45 and the height of the humidification chamber 14 are selected so that when the first coupling device 45 is activated, the upper edge of the humidification chamber 14 is flush with the top of the humidification compartment 12.

[0146] To deactivate the first coupling device 35, a user applies an inward pressure that moves the humidification chamber 14 inward within the humidification compartment 12, causing the locking member 44 to move along the second end face 49 past point P3, where the locking member 44 is displaced a distance D3 from the axis XX. The arm 45 applies a biasing force that moves the locking member 44 from P3 toward the axis XX. The action or resistance force of the actuator 16 can then move the humidification chamber 14 from the operative position to the released position. When in the released position, the locking member 44 is not received by the recessed surface 50, and the locking member 44 can be positioned toward the upper ends of the first side surface 46 and the second side surface 47.

[0147] The length of the second end surface 49 in the direction parallel to arrow XX determines the distance the user must push the humidification chamber 14 inward into the humidification compartment 12 from the operative position to deactivate the first coupling device 35. The curvature and slope of the second end surface 49 and the friction between the locking member 44 and the second end surface 49 can be selected or adjusted to vary the force and tactile sensation to the user as the humidification chamber 14 moves to the released position.

[0148] As best seen in FIG. 13 , the second end surface 49 extends across the axis XX from the right-hand side to the left-hand side in a direction toward the apex P1. To remove the humidification chamber 14 from the humidification compartment 12, a user must lift the humidification chamber 14, causing the locking member 44 to slide laterally over the second end surface 47 relative to the axis XX by a distance D4 when the locking member 44 reaches the upper point P1 of the fixed cam 43. In other words, the first coupling device 35 also provides a resistance force when the humidification chamber 14 is pulled out of the humidification compartment 12, thereby preventing the humidification chamber 14 from inadvertently tipping out of the humidification compartment 12. Preferably, the resistance force for removing the humidification chamber 14 is less than the resistance force for positioning the humidification chamber 14 in the operating position; i.e., D4 is less than D1 from the axis XX.

[0149] As can be seen in Figure 9, multiple first coupling devices 35 can be arranged around the periphery of the humidification chamber 14 and humidification compartment 12. Figure 9 shows three first coupling devices 35 evenly spaced around the periphery of the humidification chamber 14 and humidification compartment 12.

[0150] Although not shown in the figures, the positions of the fixed cam 43 and the resiliently movable locking member 44 can be reversed from those shown in the figures. For example, the fixed cam 43 can be positioned on the humidification chamber 14 so that its apex P1 faces the bottom wall of the humidification chamber 14 and the concave surface 50 that receives the locking member 44 faces toward the top of the humidification chamber 14. An arm 45 can then be attached to the inner surface of the humidification compartment 12, where the arm 45 extends upward from the point where it is attached to the compartment 12 and the locking member 44 can be positioned toward the tip of the arm 45.

[0151] 9-13 show the locking member 44 attached to a resiliently flexible arm 45 that deflects in a plane approximately tangential to the wall of the humidification chamber 14. Another variant, not shown, is that the locking member 44 can be resiliently moved towards and / or away from the walls of the humidification compartment 12 and humidification chamber 14. According to this variant, instead of the working surface of the fixed cam 43 being arranged transversely to the walls of the humidification compartment 12 and humidification chamber 14, the working surface of the cam 43 can be arranged at an acute angle to the wall of the humidification compartment 12, and the resiliently movable locking member 44 and flexible arm 45 can be moved towards and / or away from the wall of the humidification compartment 12. In examples where the humidification compartment has a circular cross-section, the arm can be radially deflectable.

[0152] If desired, one or more of the flexible arm 45, locking member 44 and fixed cam 43 may be removably attached to the respective humidification compartment 12 and / or humidification chamber 14.

[0153] Optionally, the apparatus 11 may also include a second coupling device 30 that acts to lock the actuator 16, and thus the base 28, when the humidification chamber 14 is in the operating position. The second coupling device 30 may be provided in addition to, or instead of, the first coupling device 35. However, in a preferred embodiment, only the first coupling device 35 is provided.

[0154] The first coupling device 35 and / or the second coupling device 30 may comprise any cooperating connector, including slide connectors, screw connectors, bayonet connectors, magnetic connectors, push latch connectors, male-female interference fit connectors and snap fit connectors.

[0155] Additionally, the apparatus may have a locator structure, not shown, that must be aligned to allow the humidification compartment 12 to receive the humidification chamber 14 and for the first coupling device 35 to operate. The locator structure may be necessary if the humidification chamber 14 and humidification compartment 12 have rounded cross-sections, as shown in Figures 9-13. However, if the humidification compartment 14 and humidification chamber 12 have rectangular cross-sections, the locator structure may not be necessary.

[0156] The device 11 may also include a sealing assembly that seals the top opening 31 of the humidification compartment 12 when the humidification chamber 14 is in the operating position. The primary reason for forming a seal between the humidification compartment 12 and the humidification chamber 14 is to minimize leakage from the flow path. Any leakage in the flow path creates a pressure drop in the gas flow, which causes the blower to have to consume more power to maintain the desired pressure of the gas flow being delivered to the user. Another reason for sealing the humidification compartment 12 is to attenuate noise generated by the blower 17 and noise generated by the gas flow passing through the device 11. There are several possible sealing assemblies for sealing the humidification compartment 12.

[0157] 14-16 schematically illustrate three examples of how a sealing assembly may act between an upper portion of the humidification chamber and a corresponding upper portion of the humidification compartment 12. Specifically, FIG. 14 illustrates an example of a sealing assembly that includes a chamber seal 36 that extends around the periphery of the humidification chamber 14. When the humidification chamber 14 is in the unlocked position, the chamber seal 36 is displaced above the opening 31 of the compartment 12. However, when the chamber 14 is in the operative position, as shown in FIG. 2, the chamber seal 36 engages the upper portion of the compartment 12 to seal the opening 31 of the compartment 12.

[0158] Figure 15 is an example of a sealing assembly that includes a compartment seal 37 that extends around the perimeter of the opening 31 of the compartment 12. When the humidification chamber 14 is in the operating position as shown in Figure 2, the compartment seal contacts and seals against the sidewall of the chamber 14, thereby sealing the compartment 12.

[0159] 16 is an example of a sealing assembly that includes an internal seal 38 attached to the chamber 14 and an external seal 39 attached to the opening 31 of the compartment 12. When the humidification chamber 14 is in the operating position as shown in FIG. 2, the internal seal 38 and the external seal 39 can engage to seal the compartment 12.

[0160] FIG. 17 is a schematic cross-sectional view of any one of the examples of FIGS.

[0161] 18 shows an alternative configuration of the humidification chamber 14 and the upper portion of the humidification compartment 12, which are disposed at an angle to the vertical. As a result, the humidification chamber 14 may be moved upward, and in particular downward into the compartment 12, allowing either or both of the chamber seal 36 or the compartment seal 37 to engage with their respective seals 38 and 39 with some force, potentially improving the sealing of the compartment 12.

[0162] 19 is an alternative configuration for the upper portion of the humidification chamber 14 and humidification compartment 12, including horizontal components on either or both the chamber seal 36 or the compartment seal 37. By moving the chamber 14 downward within the compartment 12 to an operative position, force can be easily applied against the seals 36 and 37, thereby improving seal engagement and thus sealing of the compartment 12.

[0163] 1, when the humidification chamber 14 is in the operating position, the inlet port 24 of the humidification compartment 12 connects to the inlet 25 of the humidification chamber 14, and the outlet port 27 of the humidification compartment 12 connects to the outlet 26 of the humidification chamber 14. The inlet port 24 and the outlet port 27 of the humidification compartment 12 may include a first seal (not shown), and the inlet 25 and the outlet 26 of the humidification chamber 14 may include a second seal (not shown).

[0164] The seals may be flexible, rigid, or inflatable seals that sealingly engage when the humidification chamber is in the operating position and disengage when the humidification chamber is in the released position. Depending on the configuration of the humidification chamber and humidification compartment walls, the first and second seals may be positioned on an upright surface as shown in Figure 17, an inclined surface as shown in Figure 18, or a horizontal surface as shown in Figure 19. The arrows in Figures 17-19 indicate the direction of gas flow from the outlet port to the inlet port, respectively.

[0165] The first and second seals that seal the inlet and outlet ports 27 and 24 of the humidification compartment 12 along with the inlet and outlet of the humidification chamber may be used in combination with or instead of the sealing assembly that seals the humidification compartment as described above with reference to Figures 14 to 16. Similarly, the sealing assembly described with reference to Figures 14 to 16 may be used without the inlet and outlet ports of the compartment being completely sealed along with the inlet and outlet of the humidification chamber.

[0166] Additionally, the sealing assembly may also include a flow path sealing member (not shown) that seals the connection between the outlet port 24 of the humidification compartment 12 and the chamber inlet 25. For example, the sealing assembly may include an outlet port sealing member at the outlet port 24 of the humidification compartment and an inlet sealing member at the chamber inlet 25 that sealingly engage when the humidification chamber 14 is in the operating position.

[0167] The outlet and inlet port sealing members may extend around the compartment's outlet port 24 and chamber inlet 25, respectively.

[0168] Additionally, the flow path sealing members may include an inlet port sealing member at the inlet port of the humidification compartment and an outlet sealing member at the outlet of the humidification chamber that sealingly engage when the humidification chamber is in the operating position.

[0169] The inlet port and outlet sealing members may extend around the inlet port 27 and chamber outlet 26 of the compartment.

[0170] The outlet port 24 and inlet port 27 of the compartment 12 and the chamber inlet 25 and chamber outlet 26 can be positioned i) in a vertical plane as shown in the embodiment shown in FIG. 17, ii) in a horizontal plane as shown in the embodiment shown in FIG. 19, or iii) at an angle to the vertical and horizontal planes as shown in the embodiment shown in FIG. 18.

[0171] Although not shown in detail in the figures, the heater base and / or base 28 may include a first locator that interfits with a second locator on the bottom wall of the humidification chamber 14 to facilitate relative positioning of the humidification chamber 14 on the base 28. In one example, the first locator may include a center peg extending upward from the heater element and / or base, and the heater base of the humidification chamber may have a second locator that includes a recess that cooperates with the center peg. Either or both of the center peg and the recess may have a tapered profile that initially provides coarse alignment of the humidification chamber 14, followed by finer alignment as the peg is received deeper into the recess.

[0172] In another example, the first locator may include a barrier around the perimeter of the base 28 or a fence around the perimeter of the base 28 within which the humidification chamber 14 is disposed.

[0173] 1 and 3-8 show the actuator 16 as one or more biasing elements disposed between the floor 29 and the base 28 of the humidification compartment 12. However, it will be appreciated that the actuator 16 may be located in other parts of the device. For example, the actuator may be attached to one or more of: i) the bottom of the humidification chamber 14, ii) a sidewall of the humidification compartment 12, and iii) the sealing assembly to move the humidification chamber upward.

[0174] 2, 14, 15, and 18 each include operator panels 40 or displays, including circular, triangular, and square shapes. It should be noted that the circular, triangular, and square shapes are included to represent areas where a display panel or control switch may be located. However, it will be understood that the display panel or control switch is in no way limited to a circular, triangular, or square geometric shape.

[0175] Those skilled in the art of the present invention will appreciate that many variations and modifications can be made to the preferred embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0176] Although not shown in detail in the figures, the humidification chamber may include an upper wall which may itself be a removable cover or which includes a removable panel for pouring water into the chamber or for cleaning the chamber.

[0177] Additionally, although not shown, the top wall of the humidification chamber 14 may include a recess on the outer surface that resembles a magnifying operating button, thereby providing the user with a visual cue that the chamber 14 can be pressed and further moved up and down.

[0178] In the claims that follow, and in the preceding description, unless the context otherwise requires, by clear language or necessary implication, the words "comprise" and variations such as "comprises" or "comprising" are used in an inclusive sense, i.e., to specify the presence of stated features but not to exclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the apparatus and methods disclosed herein.

[0179] The above description of the preferred embodiment relies on certain terminology for clarity. However, it should be understood that the present invention is not intended to be limited to the certain terminology so selected, and that each certain term includes all technical equivalents that operate in a similar manner to achieve a similar technical purpose. Terms such as "front" and "back," "inside" and "outside," "top" and "bottom," "above" and "below" are used as convenient terms to provide points of reference and should not be construed as limiting terms. The terms "vertical" and "horizontal," when used with respect to the humidifier throughout this specification, including the claims, refer to orientations relative to the normal operating orientation.

[0180] Furthermore, the present invention has been described in connection with what are presently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments, and it should be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the disclosed embodiments, but on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope of the invention. Also, the various embodiments described above can be practiced with other embodiments, for example, aspects of one embodiment can be combined with another embodiment to realize yet another embodiment. Furthermore, each independent feature or component of any given assembly can constitute an additional component. [Explanation of symbols]

[0181] 10 Respiratory equipment 11 Humidifier 12 Humidification Compartment 13. Housing 14 Humidification chamber 15 Gas Flow 16 Actuators 17 Blower 18 User 21 Air intake 22 Passage 23 Conduit 24 Exit Ports 25 Chamber entrance 26 Chamber outlet 27 Inlet Port 28 base 29 beds 30 Second coupling device 31 Top opening 32 Gripping part 33 Heater element 34 Heater Base 35 First Coupling Device 36 Chamber seal 37 Compartment seal 38 Internal seal 39 External seal 40 Operator Panel 41 Housing Exit Port 42 Flow path 43 Route components / protrusions 44 Fixed Cam 45 biasing member / arm 46 (Fixed Cam) First Side 47 (Fixed Cam) Second Side 48 First end surface 49 Second end face 50 concave 51 Tip

Claims

1. 1. A humidification device, comprising: a device outlet port that allows delivery of gas to the patient; a removable humidification chamber containing water; a humidification compartment for receiving the humidification chamber; a flow path for gas flow to the device outlet port; an actuator that generates an action force that can be operated by a user to move the humidification chamber from an operating position, in which the humidification chamber is received by the humidification compartment and the humidification chamber forms part of the flow path through the humidification device, to a release position, in which the humidification chamber is displaced outward from the operating position and the user can remove the humidification chamber from the device; Including, the apparatus having at least one coupling device acting between the humidification chamber and the humidification compartment and operable to releasably lock the humidification chamber in the operating position; The coupling device comprises: an engagement member disposed in one of the humidification chamber and the humidification compartment; an engaged member disposed in the other of the humidification chamber and the humidification compartment; the engaged member includes a concave surface that receives the engaging member and releasably locks the humidification chamber in the operating position, and the engaging member is disengaged from the concave surface to allow the actuator to move the humidification chamber to the unlocked position; the coupling device moves the humidification chamber from the release position to the operating position with a first pressing force acting against the acting force, and when the humidification chamber reaches the operating position, the engaging member is disposed on the concave surface of the engaged member; The coupling device moves the humidification chamber from the operating position in a direction opposing the acting force by a second pressing force acting against the acting force at the operating position, beyond the operating position, and the movement of the humidification chamber disengages the engaging member from the concave surface of the engaged member, thereby enabling the actuator to move the humidification chamber to the released position.

2. 10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus includes a blower for generating a gas flow, the flow path extending from the blower to an outlet of the apparatus.

3. 3. The device of claim 1, wherein the humidification chamber has a thermally conductive heater base, the humidification compartment has a heater element, and the actuator presses the heater element against the heater base when the humidification chamber is in the operating position.

4. 4. A device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein when the humidification chamber is in the operating position, the flow path extends through the humidification chamber to the device outlet port or gas flow conduit, and when in the released position, the flow path is blocked.

5. 5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the flow path has a first portion extending from a blower that generates the gas flow to the humidification chamber.

6. A device according to any preceding claim, wherein the flow path has a second portion extending from the humidification chamber to the device outlet port.

7. 7. A device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the humidification compartment has a flow path outlet port, hereinafter referred to as outlet port, in communication with the outlet of a blower which generates the flow of breathable gas, and wherein the device outlet port may be either a compartment outlet port or a humidification chamber outlet port.

8. when in the operating position, there is effective flow communication between the first portion of the flow path and the humidification chamber, and when in the released position, there is no effective flow communication; and The device described in claim 6, which relies on claim 5, or claim 7, which relies on claims 5 and 6, wherein when in the operating position there is effective flow communication between the second portion of the flow path and the humidification chamber, and when in the released position there is no effective flow communication.

9. 9. A device according to any preceding claim, wherein the actuator has a force or resistance, and the user presses the humidification chamber against the actuator when moving the humidification chamber from the release position to the operating position.

10. 10. The device of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the humidification chamber moves a release distance between the operating position and the release position, the release distance being in the range of 1 to 20 cm.

11. A device according to any preceding claim, wherein the humidification chamber is arranged so that it does not protrude from the humidification compartment when the humidification chamber is in the operating position.

12. the humidification chamber having a handle for manually removing the humidification chamber from the humidification compartment; the grip portion protrudes from the humidification compartment; the grip portion comprises a portion of an outer sidewall of the humidification chamber that extends outwardly from an opening of the humidification compartment when the humidification chamber is in the released position; The device of any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the grip portion is located within the humidification compartment when the humidification chamber is in the operating position.

13. 13. The device of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the device includes a sealing assembly that provides a seal between an opening in the humidification compartment and the humidification chamber when the humidification chamber is in the operating position.

14. the device having a sealing assembly that seals the flow path and provides a seal between an opening in the humidification compartment and the humidification chamber when the humidification chamber is in the operating position; the sealing assembly including a chamber sealing member extending around an upper portion of an outer wall of the humidification chamber; An apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the chamber sealing member is in sealing engagement with an inner wall of the humidification compartment when the humidification chamber is in the operating position.

15. the device having a sealing assembly that seals the flow path and provides a seal between an opening in the humidification compartment and the humidification chamber when the humidification chamber is in the operating position; the sealing assembly includes a compartment sealing member extending around an upper portion of a sidewall defining an opening to the humidification compartment; An apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the compartment sealing member is in sealing engagement with the humidification chamber when the humidification chamber is in the operating position.

16. the device having a sealing assembly that seals the flow path, the sealing assembly providing a seal between an opening of the humidification compartment and the humidification chamber when the humidification chamber is in the operating position; the sealing assembly including a chamber sealing member extending around an upper portion of an outer wall of the humidification chamber and a compartment sealing member extending around an upper portion of a side wall defining an opening of the humidification compartment; An apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the chamber sealing member and the compartment sealing member are in sealing engagement when the humidification chamber is in the operating position.

17. the user can apply the first pressure force to the humidification chamber against the acting force to move the humidification chamber from the release position to the operating position; 17. A device as described in any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the actuator is operable by the user to move the humidification chamber from the operating position to the release position, and can be operated to move the humidification chamber from the operating position to the release position by applying a second pressure force to the humidification chamber at the operating position to move the humidification chamber in a direction opposite to the application force, and then removing the second pressure force, the first pressure force and the second pressure force being in a direction opposite to the application force.

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