A device for supplying gas flow.

Abstract

To provide an apparatus for providing respiratory assistance to a user via a user conduit.SOLUTION: The apparatus is operable in a humidifying mode and a non-humidifying mode, and includes a humidification chamber 18 for containing an amount of water that can be located in an operating position in the humidifying mode and, optionally separate from the apparatus in the non-humidifying mode. The apparatus may also have an auxiliary flow path that can be activated in the non-humidifying mode and a powered device that heats water in the humidification chamber when the apparatus is in the humidifying mode.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross - reference to Related Applications This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 861515, filed on June 14, 2019, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 935867, filed on November 15, 2019. The specifications of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Nos. 62 / 86151 and 62 / 935867 are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present invention relates to an apparatus for delivering a gas flow to a user and a method of operating the apparatus. The gas flow can be used to provide respiratory assistance and can be used, for example, in positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy for the treatment of diseases such as sleep apnea.

Background Art

[0003] As used herein, the terms “respiratory assistance,” “apparatus for providing respiratory assistance,” or variations thereof include, but are not limited to, respiratory therapies such as positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy, which can be used for the treatment of diseases such as, but not limited to, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), snoring, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and include CPAP therapy and bi - level therapy, non - invasive ventilation (NIV), and nasal high - flow therapy (NHF).

[0004] Currently, there are several different respiratory therapy devices on the market. Many of these devices humidify the gas flow supplied to the user to enhance user comfort. Some of these can be switched between humidified and non-humidified modes, for example, by adding a separate standalone humidifier placed in a line between the respiratory therapy device and the respiratory conduit. The conduit is required in both modes to deliver the gas flow from the device to the user. To adjust the switch, some respiratory therapy devices require the user to manually adjust the device. For example, the user may need to manually disconnect the conduit from one outlet and reconnect it to another outlet. Such manual adjustments can be problematic for users who are clumsy with their hands or who do not intuitively understand these steps. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0005] Therefore, there is a need for a different device that is more intuitive and requires less physical effort to switch between different usage modes. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] One embodiment of the present invention is a device for providing respiratory assistance to a user via a user conduit, the device being capable of operating in humidified and non-humidified modes, and the device: A blower for generating a gas flow; A controllable flow path for gas flow, to which user conduits can be connected; A housing having at least a portion of an adjustable flow path extending from the blower to the housing outlet port; A humidifying chamber having a chamber inlet, wherein the humidifying chamber is movable and: i) The chamber inlet communicates with the housing outlet port, allowing the gas flow through the humidifying chamber. An operating position in which the fluid flows, wherein the humidifying chamber forms part of an adjustable flow path, thereby operating the device in humidifying mode, and ii) The humidifying chamber is separated from the housing and does not form part of an adjustable flow path, thereby allowing the device to operate in a non-humidifying mode. A humidifying chamber that can be installed Regarding devices, including those mentioned above.

[0007] The adjustable flow path may include conduit ports, which may include either chamber conduit ports and / or housing conduit ports, to which user conduits may be connected.

[0008] For example, a chamber conduit port may be installed on the humidification chamber so that the gas flow can flow directly out of the humidification chamber. A user conduit may be connected to the chamber conduit port when the device is in humidification mode.

[0009] In another example, the housing conduit port may be located on the housing. User conduits may be connected to the housing conduit port when the device is in humidified or non-humidified mode. One advantage of this configuration is that the gas flow conduit does not require disconnection and reconnection to a different port when switching between humidified and non-humidified modes.

[0010] The adjustable flow path may have a return configuration when the device is in humidification mode, in which case the flow path extends from the housing to the humidification chamber and returns to the housing.

[0011] The housing may have a housing inlet port, and the humidification chamber may have a chamber outlet, and when the humidification chamber is in the operating position, the adjustable flow path may have a return configuration, extending from the housing outlet port through the chamber inlet to the humidification chamber and returning to the housing inlet port via the chamber outlet.

[0012] The adjustable flow path may include a fixed section extending from the housing inlet port to the housing conduit port.

[0013] The adjustable flow path may include a removable (unfixed) section extending from the housing inlet port to the housing conduit port.

[0014] The removable section may be detachably connected to the housing. The removable section may be suitable for circulating a gas flow during humidification and may require disinfection and cleaning in accordance with a hygiene management system.

[0015] The removable section may include a housing inlet port, a conduit outlet port, and passages extending between them.

[0016] The adjustable flow path may have a non-return configuration when the device is in humidification mode, in which case the flow path exits the humidification chamber without returning to the housing.

[0017] The housing outlet port may be connectable to a user conduit when the device is in non-humidification mode and the humidification chamber is in a non-operating position. That is, the housing outlet port communicates with the chamber inlet when the humidification chamber is in the operating position, and the housing outlet is connectable to a user conduit when the humidification chamber is in a non-operating position.

[0018] User conduits can be connected to the housing outlet port regardless of whether the adjustable flow path has a return configuration or a non-return configuration in humidification mode. It is possible.

[0019] The housing may have a housing inlet port, and the device may also include an auxiliary flow path section which can be installed in an active position when the device is in a non-humidifying mode, and here the auxiliary flow path section communicates with the housing outlet port and the housing inlet port and allows a gas flow between them.

[0020] The auxiliary channel may be swivel-connected to the housing and may swivel between an active position and a non-active position.

[0021] The auxiliary flow path can be in an active position when the device is in the non-humidifying mode, such that the flow path inlet and the flow path outlet are respectively connected to the housing outlet port and the housing inlet port. In other words, to switch to the non-humidifying mode, the auxiliary flow path is moved so as to respectively connect the flow path inlet and the flow path outlet to the housing outlet and inlet ports.

[0022] The auxiliary flow path can move to an inactive position when the device is in the humidifying mode, such that the flow path inlet and the flow path outlet are respectively disconnected from the housing outlet port and the housing inlet port.

[0023] The user conduit can be connected to the housing conduit port when the auxiliary flow path section is in the active position.

[0024] The auxiliary flow path section can be movably connected to the housing so as to move relative to the housing.

[0025] When the adjustable flow path does not have an auxiliary flow path section, the user conduit can be connected to the housing outlet port when the device is in the non-humidifying mode.

[0026] In this situation, the adjustable flow path is reshaped by a humidifying chamber installed in an operable position, which requires that the user conduit be disconnected from the housing outlet port so that the chamber inlet can be connected to the housing outlet port.

[0027] It is also possible for the user conduit to be connected to the housing conduit port when the device is in the non-humidifying mode.

[0028] The auxiliary flow path section can also be movable to an inactive position, where the auxiliary section is away from the housing outlet port and the housing inlet port, so that the humidifying chamber can be installed in an operating position when the device is in the humidifying mode.

[0029] The device can operate with the humidification chamber and auxiliary flow channel sections communicating simultaneously with the housing outlet port and housing inlet port, but it is preferable that the humidification chamber and auxiliary flow channel sections communicate alternately with the housing inlet port and housing outlet port.

[0030] In one embodiment, the device may be capable of operating in either humidification mode or non-humidification mode at a time. By positioning auxiliary flow paths away from the housing inlet and housing outlet ports, the user can position the humidification chamber in operation. That is, the chamber inlet and chamber outlet may be connected to the housing outlet port and housing inlet port, respectively.

[0031] One of the benefits of this embodiment is that the user does not need to carry and transport the humidifying chamber, as the user can operate the device in humidifying mode while at home or where they normally sleep, and the device can be used in non-humidifying mode when the user is traveling, i.e., away from where they normally sleep.

[0032] The apparatus can also operate in a non-humication mode without separating the humication chamber from the housing, for example, when the water in the humidification chamber is empty. However, ideally, the humidification chamber is separated from the housing so that it is in a non-operating position.

[0033] When the humidification chamber is in a non-operating position, the chamber inlet is displaced from the housing outlet port, the chamber outlet is displaced from the housing inlet port, and the auxiliary section of the flow path can be moved to the active position. In other words, the chamber is displaced from the housing and adapts to the auxiliary section flow path that moves to the active position.

[0034] When the humidification chamber is in a non-operating position, it can move freely relative to the housing or be detached from the housing. The humidification chamber may also be manually removed from the device by the user.

[0035] The humidification chamber can be separated from the housing when the device is in non-humidification mode.

[0036] The humidification chamber can be attached to the housing when switching from non-humidification mode to humidification mode.

[0037] The humidification chamber can be mounted in the housing when the device is in humidification mode. In this situation, the auxiliary flow path is in an inactive position.

[0038] The chamber inlet and chamber outlet can communicate with the housing outlet port and housing inlet port, respectively, in humidification mode.

[0039] The auxiliary flow path may be operable to communicate with the housing outlet and housing inlet when the humidification chamber is separated from the housing. When the humidification chamber is in non-humidification mode, it may be separated from the housing and disconnected from the device.

[0040] In humidification mode, the humidification chamber may have operating positions in which the chamber inlet and chamber outlet communicate with the housing outlet port and housing inlet port, respectively.

[0041] More specifically, the chamber inlet and chamber outlet have fixed positions within the humidification chamber body, and the humidification chamber can be manually installed (by the user) relative to the housing. Therefore, the chamber inlet and chamber outlet are aligned with the housing outlet port and housing inlet port, respectively, thereby positioning the humidification chamber in the operating position during humication mode.

[0042] The humidifying chamber may also have a non-operating position in which it can move freely relative to or detach from the housing. The humidifying chamber can be manually removed from the device by the user.

[0043] The housing may include a main body and a platform that is movable relative to the main body.

[0044] The blower can be stored in the main unit.

[0045] The housing inlet port and housing outlet port may be installed on the main unit.

[0046] The auxiliary channel may have a channel inlet that can communicate with the housing outlet port, and a channel outlet that can communicate with the housing inlet port.

[0047] The inlet and outlet of the auxiliary channel can be connected to the housing outlet port and housing inlet port, respectively, when the humidification chamber is separated from the housing.

[0048] The auxiliary flow channel section may be swivel-connected to the housing and may swivel between an active position and an inactive position.

[0049] The auxiliary flow channel section may move in linear motion, for example, by a sliding mechanism that moves between an active position and an inactive position, inward and outward from the housing. For example, the auxiliary flow channel may be fitted with a draw mechanism.

[0050] The auxiliary flow channel section may be pivotally connected to the sliding mechanism, in which case the movement of the auxiliary flow channel may be a combination of different dynamics.

[0051] The auxiliary flow channel section may be located on a platform on which the flow channel inlet and flow channel outlet are supported, and the platform is movable relative to the housing.

[0052] At least a portion of the auxiliary channel can be defined by the platform.

[0053] When the auxiliary channel is in the active position, the platform is moved toward the housing so that the auxiliary channel communicates with the housing inlet port and the housing outlet port.

[0054] In an alternative embodiment, the adjustable flow path may include a valve that can be switched to direct the gas flow from the blower to one of the following: i) the housing outlet port; or ii) a conduit port located in the housing.

[0055] Throughout this specification, the term “valve” encompasses multiple valves, including both single and multiple items. A valve can control the flow of a gas flow, for example, by turning the flow ON / OFF, and / or by directing the gas flow along two or more alternative pathways, as described in the paragraph immediately above.

[0056] The valve may be operable to direct the gas flow from the blower to the housing outlet port when the device is in humidification mode.

[0057] The valve may be operable to direct the gas flow from the blower to the housing outlet port when the device is in humidification mode or non-humidification mode.

[0058] A switchable valve may be operable to direct the gas flow from the blower to the conduit port in the housing when the device is in non-humidification mode.

[0059] The valve can be switched by the user.

[0060] The device may include, for example, an actuator for switching a valve when the platform is moved from an open orientation to a closed orientation.

[0061] The actuator for switching the valve may be a mechanical actuator or an electric actuator including a solenoid for operating the valve.

[0062] The humidification chamber may be separated from the housing when the device is in non-humidification mode, allowing the platform to be moved toward the housing and the auxiliary flow path section to be positioned in the active position.

[0063] In the inactive position, the platform is moved relative to the housing, so the auxiliary flow path is spaced away from the housing outlet and housing inlet ports. In other words, the inlet and outlet ports are vacated, allowing the user to position the humidification chamber in the operational position.

[0064] When the auxiliary flow path section is in an inactive position, the humidification chamber can be stacked on top of the housing, so the chamber inlet communicates with the housing outlet port. In other words, the adjustable flow path can be in a return configuration.

[0065] The platform and humidification chamber can be engaged when the auxiliary flow path is in an inactive position.

[0066] When the auxiliary flow path section is in an inactive position, the humidification chamber can be stacked on top of the housing, so the chamber inlet and chamber outlet communicate with the housing outlet port and housing inlet port, respectively.

[0067] The humidifying chamber can engage with the housing when the humidifying chamber is in the operating position.

[0068] One benefit of the engagement between the humidifying chamber and either the platform or the housing is that the engagement can help fix and stabilize the humidifying chamber in its operating position when the device is in humidifying mode.

[0069] The platform may be pivotally connected to the housing. For example, a first section of the platform may have a pivot connector for pivotally connecting to the housing, and the flow path inlet and flow path outlet may be located in a second section of the platform.

[0070] In one example, the first section may be located at or facing one end of the platform, and the second section may be located at or facing the opposite end of the platform.

[0071] In another example, the first and second sections may be adjacent to each other.

[0072] The platform may have a rigid body.

[0073] The platform can rotate between an open and a closed orientation.

[0074] The platform can be rotated to a closed position, in which the act of closing the platform moves the auxiliary channel section to an active position. In other words, when the platform is rotated to a closed position, the auxiliary channel section communicates with the housing inlet port and the housing outlet port.

[0075] When the adjustable flow path does not include an auxiliary flow path section, the device may operate in non-humidification mode with the platform in either the open or closed position.

[0076] The platform can be rotated to an open orientation, in which the act of opening the platform moves the auxiliary flow channel section to an inactive position. In other words, by opening the platform, the communication between the flow channel inlet and flow channel outlet can be disconnected from the housing outlet port and housing inlet port, respectively.

[0077] Furthermore, when the platform is in an open orientation, the humidification chamber can be stacked on top of the housing, and the chamber inlet and chamber outlet can be connected to the housing outlet and inlet ports, respectively, thereby enabling the device to operate in humidification mode.

[0078] The housing may have user controls, which the user can use to operate the device, such as setting the mode in which the device is used, or selecting and / or adjusting any of the operating parameters, or configuring the device.

[0079] Controls may include any one or a combination of buttons, switches, dials, and / or display screens. A display screen may be a touch sensor capable of displaying buttons and switches represented on the screen in order to operate the device.

[0080] The controls can be installed on the platform, including on a display screen.

[0081] The platform may have controls, including a display screen, which can be observed by the user when the platform is installed in both an open and closed orientation.

[0082] The platform may be installed in a parallel configuration to the housing when it is in a closed orientation. For example, the platform may be placed on top of the main body and in parallel with it.

[0083] The platform may be positioned laterally to the body of the housing when in the open orientation. For example, the platform may form an acute angle with respect to the body when in the open position.

[0084] The platform may have an inner surface facing the main body of the housing when the platform is in a closed orientation, and an outer surface facing outward from the main body when it is in either an open orientation or a closed orientation, or both.

[0085] The controls, including the display screen, may be mounted on the outer surface of the platform. In other words, the display screen can be viewed by the user regardless of whether the platform is positioned in an open or closed orientation.

[0086] Some of the controls may also be installed in the main body of the housing. For example, the main body of the housing may include controls such as an ON / OFF switch.

[0087] The platform may be swivelably mounted to the main body by hinges. Examples of suitable hinge mechanisms include concealed hinges, continuous hinges, knife hinges, or spring-loaded hinges.

[0088] The controls may be located on the main unit, including the display screen.

[0089] The platform can be held in a closed position by any suitable latching mechanism.

[0090] The housing body may have a base on which the device can be mounted when the device is in humidification mode and when it is not in humidification mode. That is, the housing body may have the same orientation in both humidification mode and non-humidification mode.

[0091] The device can be placed on the platform when the device is in non-humidification mode.

[0092] The device may include powered equipment installed within the housing. Powered equipment may include a range of components such as a fan, a display screen, and other electronic items such as user controls.

[0093] The power supply equipment includes a heater assembly for heating the water in the humidification chamber, which can enhance the humidification of the gas flow.

[0094] The powered device may engage with the humidifying chamber to heat the water. The engagement between the powered device and the humidifying chamber may be one or a combination of thermal engagement, power engagement, and / or inductive power engagement.

[0095] The powered device may include an electrical connector for supplying power to the humidification chamber. The humidification chamber may include a heating element that receives power from the electrical connector.

[0096] The heater assembly is positioned on the outer surface of the housing body to facilitate thermal engagement between the heater assembly and the humidification chamber when the device is in humidification mode.

[0097] The heater assembly may be mounted on a movable wing that allows the heating plate to be engaged with the humidifying chamber when the humidifying chamber is set in the operating position.

[0098] The movable wing may be or may include a platform having an auxiliary channel.

[0099] In one example, the heater assembly may be mounted on the inner surface of the platform, with a humidification chamber placed on top, thereby thermally engaging the humidification chamber and the heater assembly.

[0100] The heater assembly may have a heating plate with a surface that is heated during use.

[0101] In one example, the heater assembly may be positioned so as to face outward from the outer perimeter wall of the housing body. In this example, the heating plate may be positioned in a non-movable, i.e., fixed position on the housing body.

[0102] The heating plate can be thermally engaged with the heat-conductive heater base of the humidification chamber.

[0103] The power supply device may include a heating element located within a humidification chamber and an electrical coupler for electrically connecting the heating element to a cooperating electrical coupler in the housing in order to supply power to the heating element. The electrical coupler may be any suitable connector, including couplers, sockets, shielded and unshielded couplers, couplers on leads, etc.

[0104] The electrical coupler can be connected by positioning the humidification chamber correctly on the platform.

[0105] In one embodiment, the powered device may include an induction generator within the main body and a cooperating heater base in the humidifying chamber that heats up when exposed to energy from the induction generator in order to heat the water in the humidifying chamber. The term “induction generator” is recognized to include a device that generates a high-frequency alternating current by an electromagnet that generates an electric current in a target resistive material, such as the heater base of the humidifying chamber, and then generates heat in the humidifying chamber. An advantage of using induction to heat the water in the humidifying chamber is that the efficiency of heating the water does not depend on conductive thermal engagement with the humidifying chamber.

[0106] The apparatus may include a coupling assembly.

[0107] The coupling assembly can connect the housing body and the humidification chamber when the device is in humidification mode.

[0108] The coupling assembly can connect the housing to the platform in the active position when the device is in non-humidification mode, i.e., when the platform is in a closed orientation.

[0109] The coupling assembly can connect the housing and the auxiliary flow path when the device is in non-humidification mode.

[0110] The coupling assembly can connect the humidification chamber and the platform when the device is in humidification mode, i.e., when the platform is in an open orientation.

[0111] The coupling assembly may include a first component in the body of the humidification chamber and a second component in the body of the housing, wherein the first and second components inter-fit when the humidification chamber is installed in the operating position.

[0112] The first and second components may be positioned to assist in aligning the chamber inlet and chamber outlet with the housing inlet port and housing outlet port, respectively.

[0113] The combined assembly may include a third component on the platform.

[0114] The coupling assembly may include: a first latching portion on the body of the humidification chamber and a cooperating second latching portion on the body of the housing that can be releasably engaged with the first latching portion.

[0115] The coupling assembly may include a third latching portion located on the platform and / or auxiliary channel that can be releasably engaged with the second latching portion.

[0116] The first latching portion can be releasably engaged with the second latching portion when the device is in humidification mode.

[0117] The second latching portion can be releasably engaged with the third latching portion when the device is in a non-humidifying mode.

[0118] The coupling assembly may include a fourth latching portion on the body of the humidifying chamber, which can be releasably engaged with a third latching portion on the platform.

[0119] A fourth latching portion may be installed in the upper part of the humidification chamber, and a third latching The g portion can be installed towards the outer edge of the platform.

[0120] A fourth latching portion may be located on the lower part of the humidification chamber body, and a third latching portion may be located adjacent to the hinge that attaches the platform to the body. The third and fourth latching portions are releasably engaged when the device is in humidification mode.

[0121] If the device includes an auxiliary flow channel section, and when the device is in non-humidification mode, the platform may be installed in a closed orientation, thereby also allowing the auxiliary flow channel section to be installed in an active position.

[0122] The coupling assembly may also include a locking mechanism for securing the platform to the housing body in an angled orientation, for example, in a closed or open orientation. The locking mechanism may be adjustable so that, when in the open orientation, the platform can be released from the body at multiple angles.

[0123] If the device does not include an auxiliary flow path section, the platform may be installed in an open orientation when the device is in non-humidification mode.

[0124] The first, second, third, and fourth latching portions and locking mechanisms may include any cooperating connectors, including slide connectors, screw connectors, bayonet connectors, ball socket connectors, magnetic connectors, push latch connectors, spring latch connectors, snap connectors, or connectors having male-female interlocking fits, toggle connectors, and gravity connectors.

[0125] The coupling assembly may have a sliding coupling that allows the humidifying chamber to slide relative to the main body to an operational position. The humidifying chamber may also slide relative to the main body while being removed from the main body to an immobile position.

[0126] The sliding coupling may include a projection that can be received by a recess, and the projection may move along the recess when the humidifying chamber is slid relative to the body.

[0127] The projections and recesses may be, for example, one or more of the following: i) tongue and groove configurations, ii) T-shaped flanges received by cooperating T-shaped slots, iii) a pair of rails and a carriage fitted between the rails; or iv) undercuts for receiving ribs. The projections may be located on the humidification chamber and the recesses on the main body, and vice versa.

[0128] Adjustable flow paths are, in their various forms, ideally sealed. The terms “seal,” “sealed,” “sealed connection,” or variations thereof refer to an airtight connection that prevents any large changes in either the flow rate or pressure of the gas flow, so as to minimize leakage from the sealed connection structure.

[0129] If the device includes an auxiliary flow channel section, the flow channel inlet and flow channel outlet of the auxiliary flow channel section may form a sealed connection structure with respect to the housing outlet port and housing inlet port, respectively, when the device is in a non-humidification mode.

[0130] For example, the sealing connection structure may include a flow path inlet and a flow path outlet, which are received at the housing outlet port and the housing inlet port, respectively. In another example, the sealing connection structure may include a housing outlet port and a housing inlet port, which are received at the flow path inlet and the flow path outlet, respectively.

[0131] The flow path inlets can also seal the housing outlet ports without accepting each other.

[0132] The chamber inlet and chamber outlet can also form a sealed connection structure with the housing outlet port and housing inlet port, respectively, when the device is in humidification mode.

[0133] The conduit outlet port may include either a chamber conduit port and / or a housing conduit port, and may form a sealing connection structure with the user conduit.

[0134] For example, the sealing connection structure may include a housing outlet port and a housing inlet port, which are received within the chamber inlet and the chamber outlet, respectively. In another example, the sealing connection structure may include a chamber inlet and a chamber outlet, which are received within the housing outlet port and the housing inlet port, respectively. In further examples, there may be combinations of the above arrangement configurations.

[0135] The chamber inlets may also seal the housing outlet port without interfering with each other. The chamber outlets may also seal the housing inlet port without interfering with each other.

[0136] The term "sealed connection" refers to an airtight connection that prevents any large changes in either the flow rate or pressure of a gas flow, thereby minimizing leakage from the sealed connection structure.

[0137] For example, the sealing connection structure may include a housing outlet port and a housing inlet port, which are received within the chamber inlet and the chamber outlet, respectively. In another example, the sealing connection structure may include a chamber inlet and a chamber outlet, which are received within the housing outlet port and the housing inlet port, respectively. In further examples, there may be combinations of the above arrangement configurations.

[0138] The chamber inlets may also seal the housing outlet port without interfering with each other. The chamber outlets may also seal the housing inlet port without interfering with each other.

[0139] The apparatus may include at least one locator component that provides alignment between the chamber inlet and the housing outlet port, and between the chamber outlet and the housing inlet port, when the apparatus is in humidification mode.

[0140] For example, the outer wall of the humidification chamber can be mounted on the channel structure of the platform.

[0141] In another example, the bottom wall of a humidification chamber may have a heater base and an apron extending downward from the heater base, the apron fitting around the side walls of the heater assembly. The apron of the humidification chamber may be sized such that the heater assembly is friction-fitted within the apron.

[0142] In one example, an auxiliary flow path may be flow-connected to the housing outlet port and housing inlet port, and a valve may be operable to allow the gas flow to be selectively directed along the auxiliary flow path.

[0143] In one example, the auxiliary passage may form part of the housing in a fixed position. A valve may be operable to open and close the auxiliary passage independently of the status or position of the humidification chamber.

[0144] One embodiment of the present invention is a device for providing respiratory assistance to a user, the device being capable of operating in a humidified mode and a non-humidified mode using a humidifying chamber, and the device: A blower for generating a gas flow; A controllable flow path for gas flow, to which user conduits can be connected; A housing having at least a portion of an adjustable flow path extending from the blower to the housing outlet port; and A platform that is operablely connected to the housing: i) The humidifying chamber may be installed in an operating position on the housing, and then the device may be operated in an open orientation; ii) The humidifying chamber is separated from the housing, and then the device is operated in a closed orientation in non-humidifying mode. A platform that allows movement between Regarding devices, including those mentioned above.

[0145] The apparatus described in the preceding paragraph may also include any one or a combination thereof of the features described herein. For example, the platform may have user controls for operating the apparatus. User controls may also include controls installed in the housing.

[0146] One embodiment of the present invention is a device for providing respiratory assistance to a user via a user conduit, the device being capable of operating in humidified and non-humidified modes, and the device: A blower for generating a gas flow; A controllable flow path for gas flow, to which user conduits can be connected; A housing having a section with an adjustable flow path, the portion of which extends from a blower to a housing outlet port; A removable humidifying chamber having a chamber inlet: i) An operating position in which the chamber inlet communicates with the housing outlet port, allowing the gas flow to pass through the humidification chamber, and therefore the humidification chamber is included within an adjustable flow path, thereby causing the device to operate in humidification mode. ii) Because the communication between the chamber inlet and the housing outlet port is broken, the humidification chamber is excluded from the adjustable flow path, thereby causing the device to operate in a non-humidification mode, and in a non-operating position. A removable humidifying chamber that can be moved between [locations]. Regarding devices, including those mentioned above.

[0147] The apparatus described in the preceding paragraph may also include any one or a combination thereof of the features described herein. For example, the apparatus may include a locking mechanism for fixing the platform in an open and closed orientation. The locking mechanism may also be operable to fix the platform in various positions between the open and closed orientations. That is, the locking mechanism may be operable to fix the platform, and therefore the user control, at a certain angle relative to the housing when the humidification chamber is separated from the housing.

[0148] One embodiment of the present invention is a device for providing respiratory assistance to a user via a user conduit, the device being capable of operating in humidified and non-humidified modes, and the device: A blower for generating a gas flow; A housing having a housing outlet port that communicates with a blower and a housing inlet port that can communicate with a user conduit; A humidifying chamber having a chamber inlet and a chamber outlet, wherein the humidifying chamber is movable and can be set in an operating position, and in this case, when the device is in humidifying mode, the chamber inlet communicates with the housing outlet port and the chamber outlet communicates with the housing inlet port, thereby allowing a gas flow through the humidifying chamber; and An auxiliary channel operably connected to the housing: i) When the device is in non-humidification mode, the auxiliary flow path communicates with the housing outlet port and the housing inlet port, and a gas flow is transmitted between them, in the active position and ii) When the device is in humidification mode, the auxiliary flow path is separated from the housing outlet port and housing inlet port, allowing the humidification chamber to move between an inactive position and an operating position. Regarding devices, including those mentioned above.

[0149] One embodiment of the present invention is a device for providing respiratory assistance to a user via a user conduit, the device being capable of operating in humidified and non-humidified modes, and the device: A blower for generating a gas flow; A housing having a housing outlet port communicating with a blower, a housing inlet port that can communicate with a gas conduit, and a housing that can be connected to a power source to receive power; A humidifying chamber for holding a certain amount of water, having a chamber inlet and a chamber outlet, wherein the humidifying chamber may be installed in an operating position in humidifying mode, and the chamber inlet communicates with a housing outlet port and the chamber outlet communicates with a housing inlet port, thereby allowing a gas flow through the humidifying chamber; and An auxiliary flow path that can be installed in the operating position in non-humidification mode, wherein the auxiliary flow path communicates with the housing inlet port and the housing outlet port and allows a gas flow between them; and A powered device that heats the water in the humidification chamber when the device is in humidification mode, and which can be powered by a power supply connected to the housing. Regarding devices, including those mentioned above.

[0150] The apparatus described in the preceding paragraph may also include any one or a combination thereof of the features described herein. For example, a platform may have user controls for operating the apparatus. User controls may also include controls mounted on the housing.

[0151] One embodiment of the present invention is a device for providing respiratory assistance to a user, the device being capable of operating in humidified mode and non-humidified mode, and the device: A blower for generating a gas flow; A housing having a housing outlet port and a housing inlet port that communicate with a blower; A user conduit communicating with the housing inlet port to supply gas flow to the user; A humidifying chamber having a chamber inlet and a chamber outlet, wherein the humidifying chamber is movable and can be set to an operating position, and in this case, when the device is in humidifying mode, the chamber inlet communicates with the housing outlet port and the chamber outlet communicates with the housing inlet port, thereby allowing a gas flow through the humidifying chamber; and An auxiliary channel operably connected to the housing: i) When the device is in non-humidification mode, the auxiliary flow path communicates with the housing outlet port and the housing inlet port, and is in an active position that allows gas to flow between them, ii) When the device is in the operating position, the auxiliary flow path connects the housing outlet port and the housing Because it is far from the inlet port, the humidification chamber can be installed in humidification mode, in an inactive position and Auxiliary channel to allow movement between Regarding devices, including those mentioned above.

[0152] One embodiment of the present invention is a device for providing respiratory assistance to a user, the device being capable of operating in humidification mode, wherein a humidification chamber having a chamber inlet and a chamber outlet may be installed in an operating position on the device and in non-humidification mode, the device: A blower for generating a gas flow; A housing having a housing outlet port that communicates with a blower, and a housing inlet port that can communicate with a gas flow conduit; An auxiliary channel operably connected to the housing: i) In non-humidification mode, the auxiliary flow path communicates with the housing outlet port and the housing inlet port, and the gas flow is directed between them in an active position, ii) In humidification mode, the auxiliary flow path is separated from the housing outlet port and housing inlet port, thereby allowing the humidification chamber to be placed in the operating position, inactive position and Auxiliary channel to allow movement between Regarding devices, including those mentioned above.

[0153] One embodiment of the present invention is a device for providing respiratory assistance to a user via a gas conduit, the device being capable of operating in humidified mode, where the humidified chamber may be installed in the operating position on the device and in non-humidified mode, the device: A blower for generating a gas flow; A housing having a housing outlet port that communicates with a blower; and The present invention relates to a heating assembly that is movable relative to a housing, wherein in humidification mode (when the device is in humidification mode), the heating assembly may be positioned in an operating position in which a humidification chamber can be engaged by the heating assembly, and in non-humidification mode, the heating assembly may be positioned in a retracted position in which the humidification chamber cannot be stacked on the heating element.

[0154] The phrase in the preceding paragraph, “heating assembly installed in a retracted position,” or the equivalent phrase elsewhere in this specification, includes heating assemblies connected to and adjacent to the housing, either to reduce the size of the apparatus and / or to position the heating assembly in a non-operational position. For example, a heating element in the operating position is moved away from the housing to enable engagement with the humidifying chamber and is moved toward the housing so that the humidifying chamber cannot be engaged in the retracted position. In the retracted position, the apparatus may have a smaller footprint or some other dimension compared to when the heating assembly is in the operating position.

[0155] The apparatus described in the paragraph immediately above may include any one or a combination thereof of features of other apparatuses described herein. For example, the apparatus may include a humidifying chamber having a chamber inlet and a chamber outlet, the humidifying chamber being movable and set in an operating position when the apparatus is in humidifying mode, where the chamber inlet communicates with a housing outlet port and the chamber outlet communicates with a housing inlet port to allow a gas flow through the humidifying chamber.

[0156] One embodiment of the present invention is a method for operating a device to provide respiratory assistance to a user, wherein the device can operate in a humidified mode and a non-humidified mode, and the method is: A housing outlet port that communicates with a blower, and a housing that can communicate with a gas flow conduit. To provide a housing having an inlet port; Operate the blower to generate a gas flow; Installing a humidifying chamber having a chamber inlet and a chamber outlet in an operating position, wherein in humidifying mode, the chamber inlet communicates with the housing outlet port and the chamber outlet communicates with the housing inlet port, and the gas flow is directed through the humidifying chamber; and Auxiliary channel: i) In non-humidification mode, the auxiliary flow path communicates with the housing outlet port and the housing inlet port, and the operating position allows a gas flow between them, ii) In humidification mode, the auxiliary flow path is separated from the housing outlet port and housing inlet port, thereby allowing the humidification chamber to move between an inactive position and an operating position. This includes methods.

[0157] The method may include maintaining the gas conduit in communication with the gas outlet port in both the humidification mode and the non-humidification mode.

[0158] The methods described in the two paragraphs immediately above may also include any one or a combination thereof of the features of the apparatus described herein.

[0159] Herein, a preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are summarized below. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0160] [Figure 1]This is a schematic diagram of an apparatus according to one embodiment in humidification mode. The apparatus includes a removable humidification chamber installed in an operating position, an adjustable flow path where arrows indicate the direction of gas flow along the flow path, and a platform installed in an open orientation, the platform including a display screen and an auxiliary flow path section. [Figure 2A] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the apparatus in non-humidification mode, where the humidification chamber is separated from the apparatus so as not to form part of the flow path, and the platform is oriented in a closed configuration. [Figure 2B] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a removable humidification chamber, which is separated from the device. [Figure 3] This is a schematic diagram of the apparatus according to another embodiment in humidification mode. As in the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the apparatus includes a removable humidification chamber installed in an operating position, an adjustable flow path with arrows indicating the direction of gas flow along the flow path, and a platform including a display screen and an auxiliary flow path section located adjacent to the hinge mounting portion of the platform. [Figure 4A] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the apparatus in non-humidification mode, where the humidification chamber is separated from the apparatus so as not to form part of the flow path, and the platform is in a closed position with the auxiliary flow path section in an active position. [Figure 4B] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a removable humidification chamber, separated from the device. [Figure 5] This is a schematic diagram of the apparatus according to another embodiment in humidification mode. The apparatus includes a removable humidification chamber installed in the operating position, an adjustable flow path with arrows indicating the direction of flow, and a platform including a display screen. [Figure 6A]Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the apparatus in non-humidification mode, where the humidification chamber is separated from the apparatus so as not to form part of the flow path, and the platform, including the display screen, is installed in a closed orientation. The platform can be installed in either a closed or open position when operating in non-humidification mode. [Figure 6B] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a removable humidification chamber, separated from the device. [Figure 7] This is a schematic perspective view of the apparatus in humidification mode. The apparatus is shown as if partially transparent, revealing some of its internal components, including a blower for generating the gas flow. Arrows indicate the direction of gas flow along adjustable channels arranged in a return configuration, extending from the blower to a removable humidification chamber and from the removable humidification chamber to the user conduit. The apparatus also has a platform on which the removable humidification chamber is stacked in the operating position. [Figure 8] Figure 7 is a schematic perspective view of the apparatus in non-humidification mode, where the removable humidification chamber has been removed and the platform has been rotated to a closed position, thus positioning the auxiliary gas flow channel in the active position. The arrows indicate the direction of gas flow from the blower to the auxiliary channel, and from the auxiliary channel through the housing's outlet port and conduit to the user. [Figure 9] Figure 7 is a schematic perspective view of the apparatus, where the apparatus is placed on a platform. Figures 8 and 9 show the apparatus in two operating orientations in non-humidification mode. [Figure 10] This is a schematic perspective view of the removable humidifying chamber of the apparatus shown in Figure 7, separated from the main apparatus. [Figure 11] Figure 7 is a schematic perspective view of the apparatus in humidification mode, where the user conduit is connected to the chamber conduit port. The apparatus has adjustable flow paths arranged in a non-return configuration. [Figure 12]Figure 7 is a perspective view of the apparatus without a humidification chamber, showing the components of the platform and the components of the housing, including the inlet and outlet ports. The apparatus shown in Figure 12 is a chamber-less apparatus, i.e., the chamber is separated and the auxiliary flow path is in an inactive position. [Figure 13] Figure 7 is a perspective view of the apparatus, showing the humidification chamber separated from the apparatus housing, and the arrows indicate the alignment of the inlet and outlet ports of the housing with the inlet and outlet ports of the chamber for use in humidification mode. [Figure 14] This table shows the steps of how a device to provide respiratory assistance to a user operates, and the method here includes operating the device in humidified mode and non-humidified mode. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0161] A preferred embodiment of the present invention is described below, and the following includes reference numerals corresponding to features shown in the accompanying drawings. However, not all reference numerals are included in each drawing in order to maintain clarity.

[0162] Referring to Figures 1-6B, the device 10 includes a housing 11 having a main body 47 and a platform 20 hinged to the main body 47 by a hinge mechanism 21, and a blower 12 installed within the main body 47 of the housing 11 for generating a gas flow. The blower 12 draws ambient air into the blower through an air inlet filter 13. If necessary, supplemental oxygen is added to the ambient air to mix oxygen into the gas flow; supplemental oxygen may be added at any preferred point in the gas flow, for example, before the blower, after the blower, after the humidifier, or at the patient interface. The housing 11 has a housing outlet port 14 within the main body 47 that communicates with the outlet of the blower 12, and a housing inlet port 15 within the main body 47 that communicates with a user conduit 16 that supplies the gas flow to the user interface 17. The device 10 also includes a removable humidification chamber 18 containing a certain amount of water in the water tank 33 for humidifying the gas flow 19, and an adjustable flow path 55 whose configuration can be changed depending on whether the device 10 is operating in humidification mode or non-humidification mode.

[0163] The platform 20 has user controls in the form of a display screen 22, such as an LCD, plasma, or other display. Ideally, the display screen 22 is a touchscreen with adjustment buttons.

[0164] The main body 47 of the housing 11 also has a base 54 on which the device 10 is mounted in both humidification mode and non-humidification mode.

[0165] In the embodiments shown in Figures 1-4B, the platform 20, equipped with an auxiliary flow path section 23, can be swung to the open orientation best shown in Figures 1, 3, and 5 to house the humidification chamber 18 on the main body 47 of the housing 11. The auxiliary flow path section 23 is also set to an inactive position when the platform 20 is positioned in the open orientation.

[0166] In the embodiments shown in Figures 5 and 6, the platform 20 does not necessarily have to include the auxiliary flow channel section 23, although the auxiliary flow channel section 23 may still be included as an option.

[0167] In humidification mode, the platform 20 is rotated to an open orientation, and the humidification chamber 18 is stacked or placed on the main body 47 of the housing 11 (see Figures 1, 3, and 5). Figures 2A, 4A, and 6A show the device 10 in non-humidification mode, where the humidification chamber 18 is separated from the platform 20, and the platform 20 is rotated to a closed orientation. In the embodiments shown in Figures 1-4B, the auxiliary flow path section 23 is active to allow the gas flow 19 to flow when the device is in non-humidification mode.

[0168] The advantage of the device 10 shown in the full figure is that it allows users with limited manual dexterity to quickly and easily switch between humidification mode and non-humidification mode. Switching between modes of the device can be achieved by fitting or removing the chamber 18 and rotating the platform 20 between an open and closed orientation. Such actions are considered relatively intuitive and easy for the user.

[0169] The adjustable flow path 55 in the embodiments shown in Figures 1-4B has a return or return configuration in both humidification and non-humidification modes. As described above, when the device 10 is in non-humidification mode, the auxiliary flow path section 23 is set to an active position and is characterized by a return configuration by a gas flow 19 that passes through the auxiliary flow path section 23 and returns to the main body 47 of the housing 11. Figures 5 and 6 show embodiments that have an adjustable flow path 55 having a non-return configuration in both humidification and non-humidification modes and do not include the auxiliary flow path section 23.

[0170] In the case of Figures 1-4A, the adjustable flow path 55 includes a fixed section 50 of the piping system that extends from the outlet of the blower 12 to the housing outlet port 14 and includes them. The direction of the gas flow 19 in the piping system is indicated by arrows. The humidification chamber 18 includes a chamber inlet 31 connected to the housing outlet port 14, and the adjustable flow path 55 includes: a first passage for gas flow extending from the chamber inlet 31 to the water tank 33, and a second passage for gas flow 19 extending from the water tank 33 to the chamber outlet 32. When the device 10 is in non-humidification mode, the humidification chamber 18 is removed from the main body 47, and the first and second passages 51 and 52 do not form part of the adjustable flow path 55. When the device 10 is in humidification mode, the humidification chamber 18 is stacked on the main body 47 of the device 10, and the first and second passages 51 and 52 form part of the adjustable flow path 55.

[0171] The adjustable flow path 55 in the embodiments shown in Figures 1-4A is further connected to the housing inlet port 15. The housing includes a removable section 53 that extends to and includes the housing conduit ports 48, which are connected to a user conduit 16 that carries the gas flow 19 to the user interface 17. Therefore, the removable section 53 carries the gas flow during humidification, and the removable section 53 can be replaced and / or cleaned in accordance with a suitable hygiene management system.

[0172] Furthermore, the adjustable channel 55 in the embodiments shown in Figures 1-4A includes an auxiliary channel section 23 having a passage including a channel inlet 28 and a channel outlet 29, which forms part of or is attached to the platform 20. The auxiliary channel 23 has an inactive position, which corresponds to when the auxiliary channel section 23 does not form part of the adjustable channel 55 and the platform 20 is not in a closed orientation, i.e., in an open orientation. For example, when the platform 20 is rotated to be fully open, the humidification chamber 18 can be stacked in the housing 11, as shown in Figures 1 and 3.

[0173] In the embodiment shown in Figures 1-4A, the auxiliary channel section 23 also has an active position in which the platform 20 is swung to a closed orientation so that the channel inlet 28 is connected to the housing outlet port 14 and the channel outlet 29 is connected to the housing inlet port 15, forming part of the adjustable channel 55. Therefore, the auxiliary channel section 23 is set to the active position only when the device 10 is operating in a non-humidification mode.

[0174] In the embodiments of Figures 1, 2A, and 2B, the housing outlet port 14 and housing inlet port 15 are located on the body 47 of the housing 11, opposite the hinge mechanism 21. In comparison, in Figures 3 and 4A, the housing outlet port 14 and housing inlet port 15 are located adjacent to the hinge mechanism 21. Similarly, the auxiliary flow channel section 23 is located either adjacent to the hinge mechanism 21 as shown in Figures 3 and 4A, or at the outer end of the platform as shown in Figures 1 and 2A, to facilitate engagement with the housing outlet port 14 and housing inlet port 15 when the platform 20 is in a closed orientation.

[0175] A further consideration in the embodiments shown in Figures 1-4A is that the auxiliary channel 23 is mounted on the platform 20 so that it can be connected to the housing inlet and outlet ports 14 and 15 and to complement the size of the humidification chamber 18. In the embodiments shown in Figures 3 and 4A, the auxiliary channel 23 is adjacent to the hinge mechanism 21, and therefore the auxiliary channel 23 can be easily positioned on the platform 20 and connected to the housing outlet and inlet ports 14 and 15. However, in the embodiments shown in Figures 1, 2A and 2B, although not shown, the height dimension in the direction from the hinge mechanism 21 to the outer end of the platform 20 can be adjusted, for example, by a suitable sliding or folding adjustment mechanism. By incorporating an adjustment mechanism, the platform 20 can be extended or retracted so that the outer end of the platform 20 is aligned with the upper wall of the chamber 18, as shown in Figure 1, and so that the auxiliary channel 23 can be connected to the housing inlet and outlet ports 14 and 15 in non-humidification mode.

[0176] Although not shown, the adjustable flow path 55 in the embodiments of Figures 1-4A may include a valve that can be switched to direct the gas flow 19 from the blower 12 to one of the following: i) the housing outlet port 14; or ii) the housing conduit port 48 of the housing 11. The valve may be provided in place of the auxiliary flow path 23. The valve may be switched by the user, and the device 10 may include an actuator for switching the valve when, for example, the platform 20 is moved between an open and a closed position.

[0177] In the embodiment shown in Figures 1-4A, the user conduit 16 is used when the device 10 is in humidification mode and non-humidification mode. When switching between the two modes, the same housing conduit port 48 remains connected. The advantage of the embodiments shown in Figures 1-4A is that the device 10 can be quickly and easily switched between the humidification mode, as shown in Figures 1 and 3, and the non-humidification mode, as shown in Figures 2A and 4A, by a user who may have limited manual dexterity. Switching the device 10 between modes can be achieved by fitting or removing the humidification chamber 18 and rotating the platform 20 between an open and a closed orientation. Such actions are considered relatively intuitive and easy for the user. Furthermore, the user does not need to disconnect the user conduit 16 and reconnect it to the housing conduit port 48.

[0178] In comparison, the adjustable flow path 55 in the embodiments shown in Figures 5, 6A, and 6B is non-returnable and does not require an auxiliary flow path section 28. Rather, the fixed section 50 of the adjustable flow path 55 extends from the outlet of the blower 12, which is flow-connected to the housing outlet port 14. The direction of the gas flow 19 is indicated by an arrow. The adjustable flow path 55 includes a chamber inlet 31 of the humidifying chamber 18 connected to the housing outlet port 14, and a first passage 51 that directs the gas flow from the chamber inlet 31 to the water tank 33. The adjustable flow path 55 also includes a second passage 52 for the gas flow 19, located in the humidifying chamber 18, from the humidifying chamber 18 to the housing conduit port 48, so that the humidifying gas flow 19 does not return to the main body 47 of the housing 11.

[0179] When the device 10 in Figure 5 is operating in humidification mode, the user conduit 16 is directly connected to the housing conduit port 48 on the humidification chamber 18.

[0180] When the device 10 in Figures 5 and 6A is operating in non-humidification mode, the user conduit 16 is directly connected to the housing conduit port 48, which is the housing outlet port 14.

[0181] The advantage of each embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 6B is that the main body 47 of the device 10 is mounted on the base 54 in the same orientation in both humidification mode and non-humidification mode.

[0182] The display screen 22 is positioned on the outer surface of the platform 20 and can be viewed by the user in both open and closed orientations. Although not shown, one advantage of the embodiments shown in Figures 5 and 6A is that when the device 10 is used in non-humidification mode, the platform 20 does not need to be installed in a completely closed orientation. Furthermore, during non-humidification mode, the platform of the device shown in Figures 5 and 6A can be installed in an open orientation, a closed orientation, or an intermediate orientation between the two. This can be beneficial because it allows the user to adjust the angle of the platform to make the display easier to see, even while the device is in operation.

[0183] The hinge mechanism 21 that pivotally connects the platform 20 to the main body 47 of the housing 11 can be any suitable hinge mechanism. Examples of suitable hinge mechanisms include concealed hinges, continuous hinges, knife hinges, or spring-loaded hinges. Ideally, the hinge mechanism has a controller that controls the rate by which the platform 20 moves from a closed position to an open position. Although not shown, the controller may include one or more of the following: a torque spring, a gas strut, a coil spring, or a hydraulic mechanism.

[0184] Although not shown in the diagram, the latch can be fixed in a release manner to the platform 20 in an open orientation. The latch can be released so that the platform can be moved from the open orientation to the closed orientation.

[0185] When the device 10 is in humidification mode, the humidification chamber 18 can be coupled to the housing 11 by a first coupling assembly 41. Specifically, as shown in Figures 1, 3, and 5, the first coupling assembly 41 provides an open connection between the bottom region of the humidification chamber 18 and the body 47 of the housing 11. The first coupling assembly 41 includes a first latching portion 41a in the bottom region of the chamber 18, which engages with a second latching portion 41b in the body 47 of the housing 11.

[0186] Similarly, the humidification chamber 18 may also be coupled to the platform 20 by a second coupling assembly 42 when the device 10 is in humidification mode. Specifically, as shown in Figures 1, 3, and 5, the second coupling assembly 42 provides an open connection between the platform 20 and the humidification chamber 18. The second coupling assembly 42 includes a third latching portion 42a on the platform 20, which engages with a fourth latching portion 42b on the humidification chamber 18, as shown in Figures 1 and 3.

[0187] When the device 10 is in non-humidification mode, the platform 20 is pivoted on the body 47 of the housing 11 in a closed orientation, and the third coupling assembly 43 can fix the platform 20 in a closed position with the auxiliary flow path section 23 in the active position. As can be seen from Figures 2, 4 and 6, the third coupling assembly 43 may include a third latching portion 42a of the platform 20 that engages with a second latching portion 41b on the body 47 of the housing 11.

[0188] Examples of different suitable mechanisms for coupling and installing a humidification chamber to a housing, coupling and installing a platform to a humidification chamber, and coupling a platform to a housing when the platform is in a closed orientation include: slide connectors, screw connectors, bayonet connectors, magnetic connectors, push latch connectors, or male-female interlocking connectors.

[0189] The housing 11 is connected to a power source by an electrical coupler 24, which in turn powers the blower 12 and other components. If necessary, the device 10 may include a rechargeable battery to power the device 10 when the main power line is unavailable.

[0190] The apparatus 10 includes a powered device having a heater assembly having a heating plate 27 fixed to or detachable from the main body 47 of the housing 11. The heating plate 27 has a plane that is heated using electricity, and this plane has any preferred structure and may include a biasing device (not shown) which causes the heating plate 27 to move away from the base of the main body 47 of the housing 11, so that when the humidifying chamber 18 is loaded onto the main body 47, the heating plate 27 presses against the humidifying chamber 18 to enhance the thermal engagement between them. The humidifying chamber 18 also has a heater base 40 in the form of a metal or aluminum plate that transfers heat to the water in the water tank 33.

[0191] In other embodiments, the power supply equipment may include an induction device that heats the heater base 40 or a similar structure of the humidifying chamber 18. In yet another embodiment, the power supply equipment may include the location of the heating element in the water tank 33 of the humidifying chamber 18, and the humidifying chamber 18 and the body 47 of the housing 11 have a cooperating electrical coupler to power the heating element. The heating element may be permanently fixed in place in the water tank 33 or may be removable from the water tank 33.

[0192] The platform 20 may have an inner surface facing toward the main body 47 of the housing 11 when the platform 20 is in a closed orientation, and an outer surface facing outward from the main body 47 when it is in either an open orientation or a closed orientation, or both. Although not shown in detail, The inner surface of the platform 20 includes a recess that at least partially receives the heating plate 27 when the platform 20 is in a closed orientation. The inner surface of the platform 20 may include a thermal insulation material (not shown) which has thermal insulation properties that maintain structural integrity and prevent other components of the platform 20 from being exposed to high temperatures when the platform 20 is rotated to a closed position. For example, the thermal insulation material 46 may include one or a combination of the following materials: polycarbonate, ABS, PMMA (acrylic), HIPS (high-impact polystyrene), noryl (PPO or PPE blended with polystyrene), glass-filled nylon, and polysulfone.

[0193] Although not shown in detail, suitable seals are provided between various ports and detachable portions of adjustable flow paths. For example, cooperative seals are provided between the housing outlet port 14 and the chamber inlet 31, between the housing inlet port 15 and the chamber outlet 32, between the conduit port 48 and the user conduit 16, between the housing outlet port 14 and the flow path inlet, and between the housing inlet port and the flow path outlet. The seals may include suitable sealing structures that facilitate sealing connections and thus minimize gas flow leakage. This reduces noise from the blower 12 coming out of the device 10 and reduces loss of flow rate and pressure of the gas flow being supplied to the user. Examples of suitable sealing means include: flexible pressure seals, expandable seal rings, and O-rings in or around the openings of the housing outlet and inlet ports 15 and 14, and / or around the openings of the chamber inlet and outlet 31 and 32.

[0194] In one example, the sealing connection structure may include a chamber inlet 31 and a chamber outlet 32, which are received in the housing outlet port 14 and the chamber inlet port 15, respectively. Alternatively, the sealing connection structure may include a housing outlet port 14 and a housing inlet port 15, which are received in the chamber inlet 31 and the chamber outlet 32, respectively. In another example, the sealing connection structure may be a combination of the two alternative examples described in this paragraph.

[0195] The user conduit 16 may be non-rotatably or rotatably coupled to the housing conduit port 48. The housing 11 may further include an auxiliary electrical connector (not shown) installed adjacent to the conduit port, and the user conduit 16 may further include a heating and / or sensing circuit to regulate the temperature of the gas passing through the user conduit 16 and / or to detect the characteristics of the gas within the user conduit 16. The user conduit 16 may have an electrical connector configured to connect to an electrical connector on the housing 11 so that the heating circuit can be powered.

[0196] Ideally, the humidification chamber 18 has a double-wall structure. The double-wall structure defines the water tank 33 and the outer chamber 34. The outer chamber 34 overlaps the housing outlet port 14 and the housing inlet port 15. The double-wall structure further enhances sound insulation, thereby further reducing noise from the blower 12 and the thermal insulation of the humidification chamber 18.

[0197] In another embodiment, it is recognized that the outer chamber 34 is not occupied by gas, and sound-insulating material may be installed in the outer chamber 24. Furthermore, it is recognized that the double-wall structure of the humidification chamber 18 may be replaced with a single-wall structure.

[0198] Figure 2B is a schematic diagram of a removable humidifying chamber 18 separated from the apparatus 10 shown in Figure 1. As shown in the figure, the humidifying chamber 18 has a water tank 33 and a heater base 40 at the bottom of the water tank 33. To fix the chamber in the operating position, the humidifying chamber 18 has: i) a first coupling assembly 41 including a first latching portion 41a for cooperating with a second latching portion 41b of the housing 11, and ii) a second coupling assembly 42 including a second latching portion 42b for cooperating with a third latching portion 42a of the platform 20.

[0199] The humidification chamber 18 in Figure 2B also includes a first passage 51 extending from the chamber inlet 31, which opens into the gas chamber 34 for supplying an unhumidified gas flow, and a second passage 52 extending from the gas chamber 34 to the chamber outlet 32 ​​for releasing a humidified gas flow. The humidification chamber 18 may be used to supply a humidified gas flow back to the housing 11 when the device is used in return configuration.

[0200] Figure 4B is a schematic diagram of a removable humidifying chamber 18 separated from the apparatus shown in Figure 3. As shown in the figure, the humidifying chamber 18 has a water tank 33 and a heater base 40 at the bottom of the water tank 33. To fix the humidifying chamber 18 in the operating position, the humidifying chamber 18 has: i) a first coupling assembly 41 including a first latching portion 41a for cooperating with a second latching portion 41b of the housing 11, and; ii) a second coupling assembly 42 including a second latching portion 42b for cooperating with a third latching portion 42a of the platform 20.

[0201] The humidification chamber 18 in Figure 4B also includes a first passage 51 extending from the chamber inlet 31, which opens into the gas chamber 34 for supplying an unhumidified gas flow, and a second passage 52 extending from the gas chamber 34 to the chamber outlet 32 ​​for releasing a humidified gas flow. The humidification chamber 18 may be used to supply a humidified gas flow back to the housing 11 when the device is used in return configuration.

[0202] Figure 6B is a schematic diagram of a removable humidifying chamber 18 separated from the apparatus shown in Figure 5. As shown in the figure, the humidifying chamber 18 has a water tank 33 and a heater base 40 at the bottom of the water tank 33. To fix the humidifying chamber 18 in the operating position, the humidifying chamber 18 has: i) a first coupling assembly 41 including a first latching portion 41a for cooperating with a second latching portion 41b of the housing 11, and ii) a second coupling assembly 42 including a second latching portion 42b for cooperating with a third latching portion 42a of the platform 20.

[0203] The humidification chamber 18 in Figure 6B also includes a first passage 51 extending from the chamber inlet 31, which opens into the gas chamber 34 to supply an unhumidified gas flow, and a second passage 52 extending from the gas chamber 34 to a chamber conduit port 56 to which a user conduit 16 can be connected. In other words, the humidification chamber 18 is suitable for use in the apparatus 10, where the apparatus is used in a non-return configuration.

[0204] Referring to Figures 7-12, the apparatus 100 includes a housing 111 having a main body 147, a platform 120 hinged to the housing 111 by a hinge mechanism 121 at its lower end, and a blower 112 installed within the main body 147 of the housing 111 for generating a gas flow. The blower 112 draws ambient air into the blower through an air inlet filter 113. If necessary, supplemental oxygen is added to the ambient air to mix oxygen into the gas flow; supplemental oxygen may be added at any suitable point in the gas flow, e.g., before the blower, after the blower, after the humidifier, or at the patient interface. The housing 111 has a housing outlet port 114 within the main body 147 that communicates with the outlet of the blower 112, and a housing inlet port 115 within the main body 147 that communicates with a user conduit 116 that supplies a gas flow, which is either a humidified gas flow or an unhumidified gas flow, to the user interface 117. The apparatus 110 also includes a removable humidification chamber 118 containing a certain amount of water to humidify the gas flow 119. The apparatus 110 also includes a user display 122, such as an LCD, plasma or other display, and optionally a touchscreen with adjustment buttons.

[0205] Platform 120 equipped with auxiliary channel 123, when the auxiliary channel 123 is in an inactive position To that end, it can be rotated to the open direction as shown in Figures 7 and 11. The auxiliary channel 123 is best shown in Figures 8 and 9.

[0206] In humidification mode, the humidification chamber 118 is mounted, or placed, in an operating position on the platform 120, and the auxiliary channel 123 is mounted, or placed, in an inactive position. Figures 8 and 9 show the device 110 in non-humidification mode, where the humidification chamber 118 is separated from the platform 120 and the platform 120 is rotated to a closed position, so that the auxiliary channel 123 is active to allow the gas flow. The benefit of the preferred embodiment is that the device 110 can be quickly and easily switched between a humidification mode, as shown in Figure 7, and a non-humidification mode, as shown in Figures 8 and 9, by a user with limited manual dexterity. Switching the device 110 between modes can be achieved by fitting or removing the humidification chamber 118 and folding the platform 120 between an open and a closed position. Such actions are considered relatively intuitive and easy for the user.

[0207] The apparatus 110 shown in Figures 7-12 also has an adjustable flow path 155 that can change its configuration. Specifically, the adjustable flow path 155 of the apparatus 110 in Figures 7-9 has a return configuration in both humidification mode and non-humidification mode. As described above, when the apparatus 100 is in non-humidification mode, the auxiliary flow path section 123 is set to an active position, and the return configuration is characterized by a gas flow 119 that passes through the auxiliary flow path section 123 and returns to the main body 147 of the housing 111.

[0208] Figure 11 shows the device 110 having an adjustable flow path 155 that is in a non-return configuration while the device 110 is in humidification mode. In this configuration, the user conduit 116 is connected to the chamber conduit port 156. Although it is not necessary to use the device 110 in a non-return configuration, the housing may also include an inlet port 115, a housing conduit port 148, and a removable section 153, the latter of which is not shown in Figure 11. If the device 110 in Figure 11 needed to operate in a return configuration in humidification mode, the humidification chamber 118 in Figure 11 may be replaced with the chamber 118 shown in Figure 10, which has a chamber outlet 132 instead of the chamber conduit port 156.

[0209] In the cases of Figures 7-9, 12 and 13, the adjustable flow path 155 extends from the outlet of the blower 112 to the housing outlet port 114 and includes a fixed section 150 of the piping system. The direction of the gas flow 119 in the piping system is indicated by arrow E. The humidification chamber 118 has a chamber inlet 131 connected to the housing outlet port 114, and the adjustable flow path 155 includes: a first passage 151 for gas flow extending from the chamber inlet 131 to the water tank 133, and a second passage 152 for carrying the gas flow 119 extending from the water tank 133 to the chamber outlet 132. When the device 110 is in non-humidification mode, the humidification chamber 118 is removed from the main body 147, and the first and second passages 151 and 152 do not form part of the adjustable flow path 155. When the device 110 is in humidification mode, the humidification chamber 118 is mounted on the main body 147 of the device 110, and the first and second passages 151 and 152 form part of an adjustable flow path 155.

[0210] The adjustable flow path 155 in the embodiments shown in Figures 7, 8, 9, and 11 further includes a removable section 153 that extends from the housing inlet port 115 to the housing conduit port 148 for connecting to a user conduit 116 that carries a gas flow 119 to the user interface 117. Therefore, the removable section 153 carries the gas flow during humidification, and the removable section 153 can be replaced and / or cleaned in accordance with a suitable hygiene management system.

[0211] Furthermore, the adjustable channel 155 in the embodiments shown in Figures 7-9 includes an auxiliary channel section 123 having a passage including a channel inlet 128 and a channel outlet 129, which forms part of or is attached to the platform 120. The auxiliary channel 123 has an inactive position corresponding to when the auxiliary channel section 123 does not form part of the adjustable channel 155 and the platform 120 is not in a closed orientation, i.e., in an open orientation. For example, when the platform 120 is swung to be fully open, the humidification chamber 18 can be stacked in the housing 11 as shown in Figure 7.

[0212] In the embodiments shown in Figures 8 and 9, the auxiliary channel section 123 also has an active position in which the platform 120 is swung to a closed orientation so that the channel inlet 128 is connected to the housing outlet port 114 and the channel outlet is connected to the housing inlet port 115, forming part of the adjustable channel 155. Therefore, the auxiliary channel section 123 is set to the active position only when the device 110 is operating in non-humidification mode.

[0213] As shown in Figure 11, when the device 110 is in non-return configuration, the gas flow 119 flows directly to the user conduit 116 via the chamber conduit port 156. In this example, the removable section 153 and the housing conduit port 148 can be removed from or omitted from the device 110.

[0214] As shown in Figure 7, the housing 111 is connected to a power source via an electrical coupler 124, thereby supplying power to the blower 112 and other components. If necessary, the device 110 may include a rechargeable battery to power the device 110 when the main power line is unavailable.

[0215] The blower 112 has an outlet that is flow-connected to the housing outlet port 114 of the housing 111 via a suitable piping system. The direction of gas flow in the piping system is indicated by arrow E in Figures 7-9.

[0216] The housing inlet port 115 is flow-connected to the housing conduit port 148 by gas return. A user conduit 116 is coupled to the housing conduit port 148, from which it can receive gas and deliver the gas flow to the user interface 117. The user conduit 116 may be coupled to the housing outlet 114 either immobilely or rotatably. The housing 111 may further include an auxiliary electrical connector (not shown) installed adjacent to the housing conduit port 148, and the user conduit 116 may further include a heating circuit to regulate the temperature of the gas passing through the user conduit 116. The heating circuit may be powered so that the user conduit 116 has an electrical connector configured to connect to the electrical connector of the housing 111.

[0217] In humidification mode, the platform 120 is swung to an open orientation as shown in Figures 7, 11, and 12. Figures 11 and 12 show the inner surface 145 of the platform 120, which is positioned adjacent to the inner wall 130 of the housing 111 when the platform 120 is in the closed position. The inner surface 145 of the platform 120 has a heater assembly including a heating plate 127, as well as a flow channel inlet 128 and a flow channel outlet 129 of an auxiliary flow channel 123. Figures 11 and 12 also show the inner wall 130 of the housing 111. The inner wall 130 includes a recess 144 that at least partially receives the heating plate 127 when the platform 120 is in the closed orientation. The inner wall 130 may also include a thermally insulating heat shield 146, which can maintain structural integrity and prevent other components of the housing from being exposed to high temperatures when the platform 120 is swung to the closed position. For example, the heat shielding material 146 may include one or a combination of the following materials: polycarbonate, ABS, PMMA (acrylic), HIPS (high-impact polystyrene), Noryl (PPO or PPE blended with polystyrene), glass-filled nylon, and polysulfone.

[0218] The inner wall 130 also includes a housing exit port 114 and a housing inlet port 115.

[0219] The humidification chamber 118 also includes a chamber inlet 131 connected to the housing outlet port 114 and a chamber outlet 132 connected to the housing inlet port 115. The arrows in Figure 12 indicate the alignment of the chamber inlet 131 to the housing outlet port 114 and the alignment of the chamber outlet 132 to the housing inlet port 115. As is best seen in Figure 7, the chamber inlet 131 and the chamber outlet 132 are ideally positioned above the maximum water level of the humidification chamber 118.

[0220] Although not shown in detail, the housing outlet port 114 cooperating with the chamber inlet 131 and the flow path inlet 128, and the housing inlet port 115 cooperating with the chamber outlet 132 and the flow path outlet 129, may include suitable sealing means to facilitate the sealing connection between them, thereby minimizing gas flow leakage. This reduces noise from the blower 112 emanating from the device 110 and reduces loss of flow rate and pressure of the gas flow being supplied to the user. Examples of suitable sealing means include: flexible pressure seals, expandable sealing rings, and O-rings in or around the openings of the housing outlet and inlet ports 115 and 114, and / or around the openings of the chamber inlet and outlet 131 and 132.

[0221] In one example, the sealing connection structure may include a chamber inlet 131 and a chamber outlet 132, which are received in the housing outlet port 114 and the chamber inlet port 115, respectively. Alternatively, the sealing connection structure may include a housing outlet port 114 and a housing inlet port 115, which are received in the chamber inlet 131 and the chamber outlet 132, respectively. In other examples, the sealing connection structure may be a combination of the two alternative examples described in this paragraph.

[0222] As is best seen in Figure 10, the humidification chamber 118 has a double-wall structure. The double-wall structure defines the inner water tank 133 and the outer chamber 134. The outer chamber 134 overlaps the flow inlet 128 and flow outlet 129 of the auxiliary flow path 123 and may form a gas chamber. The outer chamber 134 extends around at least one panel of the water tank 133. However, it is recognized that the outer chamber 134 may extend around all the side panels that define the water tank 133. The double-wall structure further enhances sound insulation (thus further reducing noise from the blower 112) and improves the thermal insulation of the humidification chamber 118. The humidification chamber 118 also has a heater base 140 on the bottom wall of the water tank 133, a chamber inlet 131 for supplying an unhumidified gas flow to the gas compartment of the water tank 133, and a chamber outlet 132 for supplying a humidified gas flow back to the housing 111 when the device is used in return configuration.

[0223] In another embodiment, it is recognized that sound-insulating material may be installed in the outer chamber 124 instead of the outer chamber 134 being occupied by gas. Furthermore, it is recognized that the double-wall structure of the humidification chamber 118 may be replaced with a single-wall structure.

[0224] The platform 120 has an outer surface 135 that faces downward when in the open orientation in humidification mode, and peripheral side walls 136 that extend upward from the base 135. The hinge mechanism 121 that pivotally connects the platform 120 to the housing 111 can be any suitable hinge mechanism.

[0225] Examples of suitable hinge mechanisms include concealed hinges, continuous hinges, knife hinges, or spring-loaded hinges. Ideally, the hinge mechanism has a controller that controls the rate by which the platform 120 moves from a closed position to an open position. Although not shown, the controller may include one or more of the following: a torque spring, a gas strut, a coil spring, or a hydraulic mechanism.

[0226] Although not shown in the diagram, a latch may be used to fix the platform 120 in an open position. The latch may be released to allow the platform 120 to move from the open position to the closed position.

[0227] The inner surface of platform 120 has a heating plate 127 installed in the center of platform 120, and an auxiliary flow channel 123 installed toward the outer end of platform 120, which is the upper end when the device 111 is viewed in the orientation shown in Figure 8.

[0228] The heating plate 127 includes a plane that is heated using electricity. As shown in Figures 11 and 12, the heating plate 127 has a side wall structure that extends upward from the platform 120. The heating plate 127 may have any preferred structure and may include a biasing device (not shown) that causes the heater 137 to move away from the base 135 of the platform 120, so that when the humidification chamber 118 is loaded onto the platform 120, the heating plate 127 presses against the humidification chamber 118 to increase the thermal engagement between them.

[0229] The device 110 may also include one or more locators that provide alignment between the inlet port 115 of the housing 111 and the chamber inlet 131 of the humidification chamber 118, and between the outlet port 115 and the chamber outlet 132 when the device is in humidification mode. For example, the outer wall 138 of the humidification chamber 118 may rest on the peripheral side wall 136 of the platform 120. The peripheral side wall 136 of the platform 120 may include a channel structure that receives the outer wall 138 of the humidification chamber 118. Alternatively, the peripheral side wall may be at least partially received by the channel structure in the outer wall 138 of the humidification chamber 118.

[0230] Another example of a locator is an apron extending downward from the bottom wall 139 of the humidification chamber 118, as shown in square A of Figure 7, and the apron fits into the side wall of the heating plate 127. The apron may be sized such that the heating plate 127 is friction-fitted to the apron and thermally engages with the heat-conductive heater base 140 of the humidification chamber 118. The heater base 140 may be made of any suitable heat-conductive material. In a preferred configuration, the heater base is made of aluminum. The heater base may be a pressed aluminum sheet.

[0231] In humidification mode, the heater base 140 of the humidification chamber 118 covers and thermally engages with the heating plate 127, heating and evaporating the water in the chamber 118.

[0232] In humidification mode, the humidification chamber 118 can be coupled to the housing 111 by a first coupling assembly 141, indicated by square B in Figure 7. When viewed in the orientation of Figure 7, the first coupling assembly provides an open connection between the upper edge of the humidification chamber 118 and the upper section of the housing 111. The first coupling assembly 141 includes a first latching portion on the upper edge of the humidification chamber 118, which engages with a second latching portion on the upper section of the housing 111.

[0233] Similarly, the humidification chamber 118 may also be coupled to the platform 120 in humidification mode by a second coupling assembly 142, indicated by square C in Figure 7. The second coupling assembly 142 connects the outer section of the platform 120 to the lower outer section of the humidification chamber 118 in an open manner. The second coupling assembly 142 includes a third latching portion located on the outer edge of the platform 120 and / or in the auxiliary flow path, This engages with a fourth latching portion located on the lower outer edge of the humidification chamber 118.

[0234] The third coupling assembly 143 can also couple the outer section of the platform 120 to the housing 111 when the platform 120 is in a closed orientation. The third coupling assembly 143 is shown by square D in Figures 8 and 9 and includes a third latching portion that engages with the second latching portion.

[0235] Examples of different mechanisms suitable for coupling and installing a humidification chamber to a housing, coupling and installing a platform to a humidification chamber, and coupling a platform to a housing when the platform is in a closed orientation include: slide connectors, screw connectors, bayonet connectors, magnetic connectors, push latch connectors, or male-female interlocking connectors.

[0236] The auxiliary channel 123 is located at the outer end of the platform 120. As is best seen in Figures 11 and 12, the channel inlet 128 and channel outlet 129 of the auxiliary channel 123 are openly connected to the housing inlet port 115 and housing outlet port 115. In humidification mode, as shown in Figure 7, the auxiliary channel 123 is set to the inactive position and the humidification chamber 118 is set to the operating position. Similarly, the platform 120 may be swung to the open position and the humidification chamber 118 may be in either a process detached from the device 110 or a process fitted into the device 110. In any case, when the platform 120 is swung to the open position and the humidification chamber 118 is not fitted into the device 110, the device 110 does not operate in either humidification mode or non-humidification mode.

[0237] In non-humidification mode, the auxiliary channel 123 must be in an active position, which in a preferred embodiment is provided by a platform 120 that is swiveled to a closed position. Specifically, in the closed position, the channel inlet 128 communicates with the housing outlet port 114, and the channel outlet 129 communicates with the housing inlet port 115.

[0238] Figure 9 shows the device 110 installed with the platform 120 in a closed orientation, and the device 110 is placed horizontally on the outer surface 135 of the platform 120. By placing the housing 111 of the device 110 horizontally, the device 110 is installed in a more stable orientation, even without the humidification chamber 118.

[0239] To enable the device 110 to be used in both an upright orientation as shown in Figures 7 and 8, and a horizontal orientation as shown in Figure 9, the user display 122 may have a direction sensor that allows the orientation of the display 122's output to be changed to adapt to the orientation of the device 110.

[0240] Figure 14 is a table of method steps for operating a device to provide respiratory assistance to a user, where the method includes operating the device in humidified and non-humidified modes. The method steps can be summarized as described below, but the order of the steps below does not necessarily reflect the order in which the steps are performed. i) A step of providing a housing having a gas outlet port and a gas inlet port. ii) A step of operating a blower that generates a gas flow and causes the gas flow to flow through a gas inlet port. iii) A step of moving the auxiliary channel to a non-active position, wherein the auxiliary channel is away from the inlet and outlet ports in humidification mode. For example, the step of moving the auxiliary channel may include rotating the platform on which the auxiliary channel is mounted between a closed orientation and an open orientation. The platform is shown in Figures 7 and 8. It is facing towards opening. iv) A step of setting the humidifying chamber in an operating position, wherein the inlet of the humidifying chamber communicates with the inlet port of the housing, and the inlet of the chamber communicates with the outlet port of the housing, so that in humidification mode, a gas flow can be flowed through the chamber for humidification of the gas flow. For example, the step of setting the humidifying unit in an operating position may include setting the platform in an open orientation, stacking the humidifying unit on the platform, and operating a coupling assembly that holds the humidifying chamber in an operating position. v) A step of supplying the humidified gas flow to the user through the outlet port of the housing via the swivel coupling and conduit. vi) The step of removing the humidification chamber from the operating position and moving the platform from an open orientation to a closed orientation that sets the auxiliary flow path in the active position, as shown in Figures 8 and 9, for example, the step of the auxiliary flow path communicating with the outlet port and inlet port of the housing in non-humidification mode. vii) A step of flowing gas from the housing's inlet port to the user, via the housing outlet and conduit, in non-humidification mode.

[0241] Those skilled in the art will recognize that many modifications and alterations can be made to preferred embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0242] For example, as shown in the drawings, the platform is not swivel-mounted to the housing, and the platform may be detached from the housing when changing the orientation of the platform. Once detached from the housing, the platform may be reattached to the housing as required, either in an open orientation to facilitate use of the device in humidified mode, or in a closed orientation to facilitate use of the device in non-humidified mode. The platform may be attached to the housing in either humidified or non-humidified mode using one or more of any suitable connectors, including latch connectors, magnetic connectors, screw connectors, bayonet connectors, male-to-female interlocking connectors, etc. The housing and platform may also include a suitable electrical coupler that is discoupled when the platform is detached from the housing and similarly reconnected to power the heating plate of the platform when the platform is reattached to the housing in either an open or closed orientation. The electrical coupler may include pin and socket connectors.

[0243] Although not shown in detail, the humidification chamber may include a removable lid covering the entire surface or only a portion thereof. When the humidification chamber is detached from the housing, the lid can be released or detached from the humidification chamber to facilitate refilling and / or cleaning of the humidification chamber as required.

[0244] Although not shown in detail, the user interfaces indicated by reference numerals 17 and 117 may include any suitable device for delivering a gas stream to the patient's airway, such as: a nasal mask, an orb-nasal mask, an oral mask, a full-face mask, a nasal cannula, and a nasal pillow.

[0245] Throughout this specification, the terms "humidifying chamber" and "chamber" are used interchangeably, and the terms "humidifying device" and "device" are also used interchangeably.

[0246] In the following claims and in the foregoing description, unless the language or necessary implicit expression should be interpreted in context as otherwise, the words “comprise” and variations such as “comprises” and “comprising” are used comprehensively, that is, to indicate the presence of the described features, but not to exclude the presence or addition of further features in the various embodiments and methods of the apparatus disclosed herein.

[0247] In the above description of preferred embodiments, specific terminology has been used for clarity. However, it should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the specific terms thus selected, and that each specific term includes all technical equivalents that operate similarly to accomplish similar technical objectives. For example, terms such as “front” and “back,” “inside” and “outside,” “up,” “down,” “above,” and “downward” are used as convenient terms to provide a reference point and are not considered limiting terms. The terms “vertical” and “horizontal” refer to orientation relative to the normal direction of operation when used in reference to a humidifier throughout this specification, including in the claims.

[0248] Furthermore, the invention is described in relation to what is currently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiment, and it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments, but rather encompasses a variety of modifications and equivalent configurations that fall within the spirit and scope of the invention. Also, the various embodiments described above may be carried out in combination with other embodiments, for example, an aspect of one embodiment may be combined with an aspect of another embodiment to realize yet another embodiment. Furthermore, each independent feature or component of any given assembly may constitute an additional embodiment.

[0249] For example, although not shown in the drawings, the humidifying chamber may also have external and internal fittings such as noise reduction structures, spill-blocks to prevent water from spilling from the humidifying chamber either upstream or downstream in the direction of gas flow to avoid contact with powered equipment, and baffles to prevent short circuits in the gas flow through the humidifying chamber. The specification of the International Patent Application Publication, International Publication No. 2005 / 018724 (incorporated herein by reference), includes some examples of such fittings that may be added to the humidifying chamber described herein.

[0250] statement 1. A device for providing respiratory assistance to a user via a user conduit, the device being capable of operating in humidified and non-humidified modes, and the device: A blower for generating a gas flow; A controllable flow path for gas flow, to which user conduits can be connected; A housing having at least a portion of an adjustable flow path extending from the blower to the housing outlet port; A humidifying chamber having a chamber inlet, wherein the humidifying chamber is movable and: i) An operating position in which the chamber inlet communicates with the housing outlet port and the gas flow flows through the humidification chamber, wherein the humidification chamber forms part of an adjustable flow path, thereby operating the device in humidification mode, and ii) The humidifying chamber is separated from the housing and does not form part of an adjustable flow path, thereby allowing the device to operate in a non-humidifying mode. A humidifying chamber that can be installed A device including a device.

[0251] 2. The apparatus according to Statement 1, wherein the adjustable flow path has a conduit port including either a chamber conduit port or a housing conduit port, or a combination thereof, to which a user conduit may be connected.

[0252] 3. The chamber conduit port is installed in the humidification chamber such that the gas flow directly exits from the humidification chamber, and the user conduit is connected to the chamber conduit port when the device is in the humidification mode, the device as described in Statement 1 or 2.

[0253] 4. The housing conduit port is installed in the housing, and the user conduit is connected to the housing conduit port when the device is in the humidification mode or the non-humidification mode, the device as described in Statement 2.

[0254] 5. The adjustable flow path has a return configuration when the device is in the humidification mode, where the flow path extends from the housing to the humidification chamber and then returns to the housing, the device as described in any of Statements 1 to 4.

[0255] 6. The adjustable flow path has a non-return configuration when the device is in the humidification mode, where the flow path exits from the humidification chamber without returning to the housing, the device as described in any of Statements 1 to 5.

[0256] 7. The housing has a housing inlet port, and the humidification chamber has a chamber outlet, and when the humidification chamber is in the operating position, the adjustable flow path extends from the housing outlet port through the chamber inlet to the humidification chamber and then returns to the housing inlet port via the chamber outlet and the housing inlet port, the device as described in any of Statements 1 to 6.

[0257] 8. The adjustable flow path has a removable section that extends from the housing inlet port to the housing conduit port, where the removable section is detachable from the housing for disinfection or cleaning purposes, the device as described in Statement 7.

[0258] 9. The apparatus according to statement 7 or 8, having an auxiliary flow channel section which may be installed in the active position when the apparatus is in non-humidification mode, wherein the auxiliary flow channel section communicates with the housing outlet port and the housing inlet port and allows a gas flow between them.

[0259] 10. The apparatus according to Statement 9, wherein the auxiliary channel is swivel-connected to the housing and can swivel between an active position and a non-active position.

[0260] 11. The apparatus according to statement 9 or 10, wherein the auxiliary channel has a channel inlet and a channel outlet, and is in an active position when the apparatus is in non-humidification mode, and the channel inlet and channel outlet are connected to the housing inlet port and the housing outlet port, respectively.

[0261] 12. The apparatus according to any of statements 9 to 11, wherein the auxiliary channel can move to an inactive position when the apparatus is in humidification mode, and the channel inlet and channel outlet are disconnected from the housing inlet port and housing outlet port, respectively.

[0262] 13. The apparatus according to any one of statements 9 to 12, wherein the humidification chamber and auxiliary flow path section alternately communicate with the housing inlet port and the housing outlet port.

[0263] 14. The apparatus as described in any of statements 1 to 13, having a power supply device including a heater assembly for heating water in a humidifying chamber.

[0264] 15. The apparatus as described in Statement 14, wherein the powered device engages with a humidifying chamber to heat water, and the engagement between the powered device and the humidifying chamber includes one or a combination thereof of thermal engagement, power engagement, and / or electromagnetic induction power engagement.

[0265] 16. The heater assembly is located on the outer surface of the housing body, and the device is humidifying The apparatus according to statement 14 or 15, which facilitates thermal engagement between the heater assembly and the humidifying chamber when in a certain position.

[0266] 17. The apparatus according to statement 16, wherein the heater assembly may have a heating plate that heats and thermally engages with the heat-conductive heater base of the humidification chamber, wherein the heating plate is positioned in a non-movable, i.e., fixed position on the body of the housing.

[0267] 18. The powered device is the apparatus described in any of statements 14 to 17, which includes a heating element located within a humidification chamber and an electrical coupler for electrically connecting the heating element to a cooperating electrical coupler in a housing in order to supply power to the heating element.

[0268] 19. The powered device is the apparatus described in any of statements 14 to 18, which includes an induction generator within the main body and a cooperating heater base of a humidifying chamber that is exposed to and heated by energy from the induction generator in order to heat the water in the humidifying chamber.

[0269] 20. The apparatus according to any one of statements 1 to 19, wherein the housing comprises a main body and a platform that is movable relative to the main body, and the blower is housed within the main body.

[0270] The apparatus according to statement 20, when subject to 21.17, wherein the heater assembly is movable relative to the body, thereby allowing the heating plate to be engaged by the humidifying chamber when the humidifying chamber is set in the operating position.

[0271] 22. The apparatus according to statement 21, wherein the heater assembly is mounted on the inner surface of the platform and a humidification chamber can be placed thereon.

[0272] 23. When dependent on any of statements 9 - 12, the auxiliary flow path section is on the platform, the flow path inlet and the flow path outlet are supported by the platform or form a part thereof, and the platform is movable relative to the housing, the apparatus according to statement 20.

[0273] 24. The humidification chamber is separated from the housing when the apparatus is in the non - humidification mode, whereby the platform can be moved towards the housing to position the auxiliary flow path section in the active position, the apparatus according to any of statements 20 - 23.

[0274] 25. When the auxiliary flow path section is in the non - active position, the humidification chamber can be stacked on the housing, so that the chamber inlet and the chamber outlet communicate with the housing inlet port and the housing outlet port respectively, the apparatus according to any of statements 20 - 24.

[0275] 26. The platform is pivotally connected to the housing and moves between an open orientation and a closed orientation, the apparatus according to any of statements 20 - 25.

[0276] 27. When the platform is pivoted to the closed orientation, the act of closing the platform moves the auxiliary flow path section to the active position, the apparatus according to statement 26.

[0277] 28. The platform can be pivoted to the open orientation, where the act of opening the platform moves the auxiliary flow path section to the non - active position, and when in the open orientation, the humidification chamber can be stacked on the housing so that the apparatus can operate in the humidification mode to do so, the apparatus according to statement 26 or 27.

[0278] 29. The housing has user controls that a user can use to operate the device, and the user controls include a display screen mounted on the platform, as described in any of statements 20 to 28.

[0279] 30. User controls are devices described in any of statements 20-29 that can be observed by a user when the platform is installed in both open and closed orientations.

[0280] 31. The apparatus according to any one of statements 20 to 30, wherein the platform is oriented parallel to the housing in a closed orientation, and the platform is oriented laterally to the body of the housing in an open orientation.

[0281] 32. The apparatus according to any one of statements 20 to 31, wherein the body of the housing has a base on which the apparatus can be mounted when the apparatus is in humidification mode and non-humidification mode, and the body of the housing has the same orientation in both humidification mode and non-humidification mode.

[0282] 33. The apparatus according to any one of statements 20 to 32, wherein the apparatus has a coupling assembly that releasably connects the body of the housing and the humidifying chamber when the apparatus is in humidification mode.

[0283] 34. The coupling assembly of the apparatus described in statement 33, which releasably couples the housing and platform to the active position when the apparatus is in a non-humidified mode.

[0284] 35. The apparatus according to statement 33 or 34, wherein the coupling assembly releasably couples the housing and the auxiliary flow path when the apparatus is in a non-humidifying mode.

[0285] 36. The coupling assembly of the apparatus according to any of statements 33 to 35, which releasably couples the humidifying chamber and the platform when the apparatus is in humidification mode, i.e., oriented in an open position by the platform.

[0286] 37. The apparatus according to any one of statements 20 to 36, wherein the coupling assembly includes a first latching portion on the body of the humidifying chamber and a cooperating second latching portion on the body of the housing that can be releasably engaged with the first latching portion in humidifying mode.

[0287] 38. The apparatus according to Statement 37, wherein the coupling assembly includes a third latching portion located on the platform and / or auxiliary channel, which can be releasably engaged with the second latching portion in non-humidified mode.

[0288] 39. The apparatus according to Statement 37, wherein the coupling assembly includes a fourth latching portion in the body of the humidifying chamber, which can be releasably engaged with a third latching portion in the platform.

[0289] 40. The apparatus according to any one of statements 20 to 36, wherein the coupling assembly has a locking mechanism for securing the platform at multiple orientation angles relative to the body when in the open orientation.

[0290] 41. The coupling assembly consists of the first component on the body of the humidification chamber and the body of the housing. The apparatus according to any one of statements 33 to 40, wherein the apparatus may include a second component, and the first and second components fit together when the humidification chamber is installed in the operating position to assist in the alignment of the chamber inlet and chamber outlet with the housing outlet port and housing inlet port, respectively. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0291] 10,110 equipment 11,111 Housing 12,112 Air blower 13,113 Air Inlet Filter 14,114 Housing exit ports 15,115 Housing entrance port 16,116 User Conduits 17,117 User Interfaces 18,118 humidifying chambers 19,119 gas flows 20,120 platforms 21,121 Hinge mechanism 22,122 user displays 23,123 Auxiliary channel section 24,124 Electrical Couplers 27,127 heating plate 28,128 Channel Inlet 29,129 Flow outlet 130 Inner wall 31,131 Chamber entrance 32,132 Chamber exit 33,133 aquariums 34,134 Gas Chambers 135 (Platform) exterior 136 Surrounding side wall 138 (Exterior wall of the humidification chamber) 139 Bottom wall (of the humidification chamber) 40,140 Heater base 41,141 First Joint Assembly 41a First latch portion 41b Second latch portion 42,142 Second Joint Assembly 42a Third latch portion 42b Fourth latch portion 43,143 Third Joint Assembly 144 recess 145 (The interior of the platform) 47,147 (Housing) Body 48,148 Housing conduit ports 50,150 Fixed Sections 51,151 First Passage 52,152 Second passage 53.153 Removable section 54 Base 55,155 Adjustable flow path 56,156 Chamber conduit ports

Claims

1. A device for providing respiratory assistance to a user, wherein the device is capable of operating in a humidified mode and a non-humidified mode using a humidifying chamber, and the device is A blower for generating a gas flow, An adjustable flow path for the gas flow, to which a user conduit can be connected, A housing having at least a portion of the adjustable flow path extending from the blower to the housing outlet port, A platform operably connected to the housing, i) The humidification chamber may be installed in an operating position on the housing, and the device may be operated in the humidification mode in an open orientation, ii) The humidifying chamber is separated from the housing, and the device is then operated in the closed position in the non-humidifying mode, A platform that allows movement between, The platform is pivotally connected to the housing and can pivot between the open and closed orientations. Device.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the platform remains connected to the housing when in the open orientation.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the apparatus includes the humidifying chamber.

4. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the apparatus has a chamber conduit port and a housing conduit port, the user conduit may be connected to the chamber conduit port in the humidification mode, and the user conduit may be connected to the housing conduit port in the non-humidification mode.

5. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the apparatus has a housing conduit port installed on the housing, and the user conduit is connected to the housing conduit port when the apparatus is in humidification mode or non-humidification mode.

6. The apparatus according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the housing includes a housing inlet port that is in fluid communication with the housing conduit port.

7. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the adjustable flow path has an auxiliary flow path section that can be installed in an active position when the apparatus is in the non-humidifying mode and in an inactive position when the apparatus is in the humidifying mode.

8. The apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the auxiliary flow path communicates with the housing outlet port and the housing inlet port in the active position, and the gas flow flows between them.

9. The apparatus according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the auxiliary channel is arranged on the platform.

10. The apparatus according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein at least a portion of the auxiliary channel is defined by the platform.

11. The apparatus according to any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein the auxiliary channel has a channel inlet and a channel outlet that connect to the housing inlet port and the housing outlet port, respectively, when the platform is in the closed orientation.

12. The apparatus according to any one of claims 7 to 11, wherein the auxiliary channel is disconnected from the housing inlet port and the housing outlet port, respectively, when the platform is in the open orientation.

13. The apparatus according to any one of claims 7 to 12, wherein the housing includes a main body and a platform that is movable relative to the main body, and the platform is pivotally connected to the main body of the housing.

14. The apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the heater assembly is positioned on the outer surface of the main body to facilitate thermal engagement between the heater assembly and the humidifying chamber when the humidifying chamber is in the operating position.

15. The apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the heater assembly is positioned on the platform, and the heater assembly engages with the humidifying chamber when the humidifying chamber is in the operating position.

16. The apparatus according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the heater assembly has a heating plate having a surface that is heated when in use.

17. The apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the heating plate is thermally engaged with the heat-conductive heater base of the humidification chamber.

18. The apparatus according to any one of claims 7 to 17, wherein the platform may be rotated in a closed direction, where the act of closing the platform moves the auxiliary channel to an active position, and the platform may be rotated in an open direction, where the act of opening the platform moves the auxiliary channel to the inactive position.

19. The apparatus according to any one of claims 7 to 18, wherein when the platform is in the open orientation, the humidifying chamber can be mounted on the platform, and the heater assembly engages with the humidifying chamber to heat the water in the humidifying chamber.

20. The apparatus according to claim 11, wherein when the auxiliary channel is in the active position, that is, when the apparatus is in the non-humidifying mode, the channel inlet and channel outlet of the auxiliary channel can form a sealing connection structure with respect to the housing outlet port and the housing inlet port, respectively.

21. The apparatus according to any one of claims 7 to 20, wherein when the auxiliary flow path is in the inactive position and the apparatus is in the humidification mode, the chamber inlet and the chamber outlet can also form a sealing connection structure with the housing outlet port and the housing inlet port, respectively.

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