housing

Abstract

A housing including: a body having: an inlet portion; an outlet portion in fluid communication with the inlet portion to provide a gas flow pathway; and a channelling portion that is configured to channel a condensate away from the gas flow pathway.

Description

HOUSINGCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

[0001] This application is based on and claims priority to United States of America Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 580,936, filed on 6 September 2024, the contents of which are incorporated by reference in their entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a housing and, in particular, a housing that assists in managing condensation during respiratory therapy.BACKGROUND

[0003] Respiratory apparatuses are used in numerous environments including hospitals, medical facilities, residential care, palliative care, and home care to deliver pressurised respiratory gases to a patient for respiratory therapy.

[0004] Insufflation apparatuses are used in surgical environments to deliver insufflation gases to inflate or resist collapse of a body cavity, or to provide a layer of gases over exposed body parts.

[0005] The humidification of medical gases (respiratory gases or insufflation gases) may have a variety of physiological benefits for a patient. However, the water vapor in the gas(es) flowing to the patient may condense to form a liquid. That is, water vapor may cool below a dew point in a system to form a liquid. This liquid may travel along the system causing a number of issues, including causing patient discomfort and other performance issues. Reducing this mobile condensation in the system can therefore be advantageous.

[0006] Any reference to or discussion of any document, act or item of knowledge in this specification is included solely for the purpose of providing a context for the present disclosure. It is not suggested or represented that any of these matters or any combination thereof formed at the priority date part of the common general knowledge, or was known to be relevant to an attempt to solve any problem with which this specification is concerned.SUMMARY

[0007] Aspects of the disclosure are summarised below. It will be noted that aspects and examples of the disclosure may be combined such that features and / or examples of one aspect may be used with features and / or examples of any other aspect where compatible.

[0008] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a housing including : a body having: an inlet portion; an outlet portion in fluid communication with the inlet portion to provide a gas flow pathway; and a channelling portion that is configured to channel a condensate away from the gas flow pathway.

[0009] The channelling portion may surround at least part of the gas flow pathway.

[0010] The channelling portion may provide a cuff around a portion of a perimeter of the gas flow pathway.

[0011] A distribution portion may be configured to increase a surface area of the condensate from the channelling portion.

[0012] The distribution portion may be configured to position the condensate such that it can move from the body to a surrounding environment.

[0013] The distribution portion may have internal volume that is at least approximately 5ml.

[0014] The distribution portion may include a surface area to volume ratio greater than 1:1.

[0015] The distribution portion may increase a surface area of the condensate by at least a factor of 5.

[0016] The distribution portion may include one or more distribution elements.

[0017] The one or more distribution elements may provide a capillary action for condensate.

[0018] The one or more distribution elements may include a plurality of distribution elements.

[0019] The distribution portion may at least partly include a permeable material.

[0020] The permeable material may be bonded to at least part of a distribution structure at one or more points.

[0021] The permeable material may be bonded to at least part of a distribution structure along one or more lines.

[0022] The permeable material may include at least two portions located on opposite sides of the distribution structure.

[0023] The distribution portion may include one or more apertures.

[0024] The distribution portion may be located outboard of the body.

[0025] The distribution portion may include one or more fins.

[0026] The one or more fins may extend radially.

[0027] The one or more fins may extend radially relative to a central axis of the body.

[0028] The one or more fins may extend transversely relative to a central axis of the body.

[0029] The one or more fins may include a fold.

[0030] The distribution portion may include a foam.

[0031] The distribution portion may include one or more nodules.

[0032] The one or more nodules may form foam portions extending away from the body.

[0033] The distribution portion may include a wrapped portion.

[0034] The wrapped portion may wrap around the body.

[0035] The wrapped portion may include sections which are offset from one another in a direction away from the body.

[0036] The channelling portion may at least partly define one or more cavities .

[0037] The one or more cavities may at least partially surround the gas flow pathway.

[0038] The one or more cavities may include a height shallower than its width.

[0039] An outer wall of the one or more cavities may substantially follow a contour of an inner wall.

[0040] The one or more cavities may provide a sleeve volume around a portion of the gas flow pathway.

[0041] The sleeve volume may extend in a radial direction.

[0042] The one or more cavities may include an opening.

[0043] The opening may extend completely around a perimeter of part of the body.

[0044] The opening may span part of a perimeter of the gas flow path.

[0045] The opening may be circular.

[0046] A first edge of the opening, contacting gas in the gas flow path first, may differ from a shape of a second edge of the opening.

[0047] The first edge may be located on an opposite side of the opening to the second edge.

[0048] A minimum distance between the second edge and the first edge may be configured such that surface tension cannot cause condensate to span the opening.

[0049] The opening may be less than half of the cross-sectional area of the gas flow path.

[0050] The opening may be positioned such that gravity assists in directing condensate toward or through the opening.

[0051] The opening may be directed towards the outlet or the inlet portion.

[0052] The channelling portion may be at least 3 mm long.

[0053] The body may include a further inlet or outlet portion in communication with at least one of the inlet portion or the outlet portion; and a further gas flow pathway is defined between the inlet portion, the outlet portion or the further inlet or outlet portion.

[0054] The body may approximately form a Y-shape.

[0055] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a housing including: a body having: an inlet portion; an outlet portion in fluid communication with the inlet portion; a filter media receiving portion that is configured to receive a filter media, the filter media being positioned in a gas flow pathway between the inlet portion and the outlet portion; and a material supporting part; and a permeable material that is supported by the material supporting part.

[0056] The material supporting part may provide a wall that is at least partly covered by the permeable material.

[0057] The material supporting part may include a plurality of members with the permeable material connected therebetween.

[0058] The material supporting part may extend in a direction from the inlet portion and / or outlet portion towards the filter media receiving portion and / or the filter media when received by the filter media receiving portion.

[0059] An inner area of the material supporting part may include the filter media receiving portion.

[0060] The permeable material may be located on an inner surface of the material supporting part.

[0061] The permeable material may be located on an outer surface of the material supporting part.

[0062] When the filter media is received by the filter media receiving portion, the material supporting part may extend transversely to the filter media.

[0063] When the filter media is received by the filter media receiving portion, the material supporting part may extend substantially parallel to the filter media.

[0064] When the filter media is received by the filter media receiving portion, the permeable material may extend transversely to the filter media.

[0065] When the filter media is received by the filter media receiving portion, the permeable material may extend substantially parallel to the filter media.

[0066] The filter media receiving portion may position the filter media in a manner that requires the gas flow pathway to pass through the filter media before it leaves the outlet portion.

[0067] The material supporting part may provide a channelling portion that assists with capturing condensation.

[0068] The body may include a channelling portion.

[0069] The channelling portion may surround at least part of the gas flow pathway.

[0070] The channelling portion may provide a cuff around a portion of a perimeter of the gas flow pathway.

[0071] The channelling portion may be at least 3 mm long .

[0072] The channelling portion and the permeable material may define a cavity therebetween.

[0073] The channelling portion may provide a cavity that at least partially surrounds the gas flow pathway.

[0074] The cavity may provide a branch off the gas flow pathway.

[0075] The cavity may include a height shallower than its width.

[0076] An outer wall of the cavity may substantially follow a contour of an inner wall.

[0077] The cavity may provide a sleeve volume around a portion of the gas flow pathway.

[0078] The sleeve volume may extends in a radial direction.

[0079] The cavity may be fluid communication with an inlet chamber or an outlet chamber.

[0080] The cavity may include an opening.

[0081] The opening may be directed towards the outlet portion or the inlet portion.

[0082] The opening may span a perimeter of the gas flow path.

[0083] The opening may extend completely around a perimeter of part of the body.

[0084] The opening may be circular.

[0085] A first edge of the opening, contacting gas in the gas flow path first, may differ from a shape of a second edge of the opening.

[0086] The first edge may be located on an opposite side of the opening to the second edge.

[0087] A minimum distance between the second edge and the first edge may be configured such that surface tension cannot cause condensate to span the opening.

[0088] The opening may be less than half of the cross-sectional area of the gas flow path.

[0089] The opening may be positioned such that gravity assists in directing condensate toward or through the opening.

[0090] The cavity may be located on one side of the filter media and a further cavity is located on another side of the filter media.

[0091] The cavity and the further cavity may be separated by a barrier.

[0092] The material supporting part may be positioned between the filter media and at least one of the inlet portion or the outlet portion.

[0093] The material supporting part may include a surface that connects to one or more walls forming an inlet wall and / or an outlet wall.

[0094] The surface may be integrally formed with the one or more walls forming the inlet wall and / or the outlet wall.

[0095] The surface may be non-integrally formed with the one or more walls forming the inlet wall and / or the outlet wall.

[0096] The surface may extend transversely to one or more walls forming part of the inlet wall and / or the outlet wall.

[0097] The permeable material may be positioned such that condensation from flow that has passed through the filter media will move back into fluid communication with the permeable material before it contacts the filter media.

[0098] The body may include an insulation feature.

[0099] The insulation feature may be provided between the filter media and at least one of the material supporting part or the permeable material.

[0100] The insulation feature may be provided between the gas flow pathway and the channelling portion.

[0101] The insulation feature may include an insulation structure that is configured to encase at least part of the filter media.

[0102] The insulation structure may avoid sharing a common boundary with an area for trapping condensate.

[0103] The insulation feature may be provided between the gas flow pathway and an area for trapping condensate.

[0104] The insulation feature may include a decoupling portion.

[0105] The decoupling portion may be an air gap and / or foam.

[0106] The decoupling portion may include a change between one or more different mediums.

[0107] The change between the one or more different mediums may include a change between a solid to a gas to a further solid.

[0108] A housing including: a body having: an inlet portion; an outlet portion in fluid communication with the inlet portion to provide a gas flow pathway; and a channelling portion; and a permeable material, wherein the channelling portion at least partly defines one or more cavities that are in fluid communication with the permeable material.

[0109] The permeable material may provide a wall forming part of the one or more cavities.

[0110] The channelling portion may surround at least part of the gas flow pathway.

[0111] The channelling portion may provide a cuff around a portion of a perimeter of the gas flow pathway.

[0112] The one or more cavities may branch off the gas flow pathway.

[0113] The one or more cavities may at least partially surround the gas flow pathway.

[0114] The one or more cavities may include a height shallower than its width.

[0115] An outer wall of the one or more cavities may substantially follow a contour of an inner wall.

[0116] The one or more cavities may provide a sleeve volume around a portion of the gas flow pathway.

[0117] The sleeve volume may extend in a radial direction.

[0118] The one or more cavities may be configured to collect condensation moving in a direction with the gas flow pathway from the inlet portion to the outlet portion;

[0119] The one or more cavities may be configured to collect condensation moving in an opposite direction to the gas flow pathway from the inlet portion to the outlet portion.

[0120] The one or more cavities may include an opening.

[0121] The opening may span a perimeter of the gas flow path.

[0122] The opening may extend completely around a perimeter of part of the body.

[0123] The opening may be circular.

[0124] A first edge of the opening, contacting gas in the gas flow path first, may differ from a shape of a second edge of the opening.

[0125] The first edge may be located on an opposite side of the opening to the second edge.

[0126] A minimum distance between the second edge and the first edge may be configured such that surface tension cannot cause condensate to span the opening when the one or more cavities are substantially void of condensate.

[0127] The opening may be less than half of the cross-sectional area of the gas flow path.

[0128] The opening may be positioned such that gravity assists in directing condensate toward or through the opening.

[0129] The opening may be directed towards the outlet or the inlet portion.

[0130] The channelling portion may be at least 3 mm long.

[0131] The one or more cavities may be configured to collect condensation near the inlet portion or outlet portion.

[0132] The one or more cavities may include two cavities.

[0133] The two cavities may include one cavity that collects condensation associated with the inlet portion and another cavity collects condensation associated with the outlet portion.

[0134] The two cavities may be separated by a barrier that isolates the cavities from one another.

[0135] The permeable material may cover a material supporting part of the body.

[0136] The permeable material may be connected to the material supporting part.

[0137] The channelling portion may form part of the material supporting part.

[0138] The material supporting part may extend transversely to an axis defined between the inlet portion and the outlet portion.

[0139] The material supporting part may extend transversely to an axis following the gas flow pathway through the body.

[0140] The permeable material may extend along the material supporting part.

[0141] The permeable material may be located on an inner surface of the material supporting part.

[0142] The permeable material may be located on an outer surface of the material supporting part.

[0143] The body may include an insulation feature.

[0144] The insulation feature may be provided between the channelling portion and at least one other area of the body.

[0145] The insulation feature may include an insulation structure that is configured to separate the channelling portion from another part.

[0146] The another part may include the filter media.

[0147] The insulation feature may include a decoupling portion.

[0148] The decoupling portion may be an air gap and / or foam.

[0149] The decoupling portion may include a change between one or more different mediums.

[0150] The change between the one or more different mediums may include a change between a solid to a gas to a further solid.

[0151] The permeable material may be a separate part from the body.

[0152] The permeable material may extend substantially around a perimeter of the body.

[0153] The permeable material may extend transversely to a central axis.

[0154] The permeable material may be permeable to water molecules.

[0155] The permeable material may be a breathable membrane.

[0156] The permeable material may have a thickness between 20pm and 1mm.

[0157] The permeable material may include a polymer.

[0158] The permeable material may include a polyether-ester block copolymer.

[0159] The body may include one or more apertures in a surface.

[0160] The permeable material may cover the one or more apertures.

[0161] The body may position the permeable material to be in communication with a surrounding environment.

[0162] The permeable material may be configured to expand with the assistance of expansion formations.

[0163] The permeable material may be configured to expand due to the accumulation of condensation.

[0164] A distribution portion may be configured to increase a surface area of the condensate from the channelling portion.

[0165] The distribution portion may include one or more fins.

[0166] The one or more fins may extend radially.

[0167] The one or more fins may extend radially relative to a central axis of the body.

[0168] The one or more fins may extend transversely relative to a central axis of the body.

[0169] The one or more fins may include a fold.

[0170] The distribution portion internal volume may be at least approximately 5ml.

[0171] The distribution portion may include a surface area to volume ratio greater than 1:1.

[0172] The distribution portion may increase a surface area of the condensate by at least a factor of 5.

[0173] The distribution portion may include one or more distribution elements.

[0174] The one or more distribution elements may provide a capillary action for condensate.

[0175] The one or more distribution elements may include a plurality of distribution elements.

[0176] The distribution portion may at least partly include the permeable material.

[0177] The distribution portion may include one or more apertures.

[0178] The distribution portion may be located outboard of the body.

[0179] The distribution portion may include a wrapped portion.

[0180] The wrapped portion may wrap around the body.

[0181] The wrapped portion may include sections which are offset from one another in a direction away from the body.

[0182] The permeable material may be bonded to at least part of a support structure at one or more points.

[0183] The permeable material may be bonded to at least part of a support structure along one or more lines.

[0184] The permeable material may include at least two portions located on opposite sides of the support structure.

[0185] The body may include a foam.

[0186] One or more nodules may form foam portions extending away from the body.

[0187] The body may include a further inlet or outlet portion in communication with at least one of the inlet portion or the outlet portion; and a further gas flow pathway is defined between the inlet portion, the outlet portion or the further inlet or outlet portion.

[0188] The body may approximately form a Y-shape.

[0189] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a housing including: a body having: an inlet portion; an outlet portion in fluid communication with the inlet portion to provide a gas flow pathway; and a channelling portion; and an insulation feature, wherein the channelling portion at least partly defines one or more cavities.

[0190] The one or more cavities may be configured to be thermally decoupled from the gas flow pathway.

[0191] The one or more cavities may be thermally isolated with the assistance of the insulation feature.

[0192] The housing may include any one of the features described herein.

[0193] In a further aspect, the present disclosure provides a housing including: a body having: an inlet portion; an outlet portion in fluid communication with the inlet portion; and a further inlet or outlet portion in communication with at least one of the inlet portion or the outlet portion; and one or more gas flow pathways defined between the inlet portion, the outlet portion or the further inlet or outlet portion, wherein a channelling portion is configured to channel condensate away from the one or more gas flow pathways.

[0194] The further inlet or outlet portion may form a connection interface.

[0195] The channelling portion may be configured to channel condensate away from the inlet portion which provides inspiratory flow.

[0196] The body may approximately form a Y-shape.

[0197] The housing may include any one of the features described herein.

[0198] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a filter assembly including: a housing as described herein; and a filter media retained in the housing.

[0199] In a further aspect, the present disclosure provides a filter assembly including: a housing comprising: an inlet portion defining an inlet chamber; an outlet portion defining an outlet chamber; and a filter media receiving portion; and a filter media received into the filter media receiving portion, wherein at least a portion of the inlet portion and / or at least a portion of the outlet portion comprises a permeable material.

[0200] The housing may include any one of the features described herein.

[0201] The filter media may have nonwoven fabric of glass fibres, polypropylene fibres and / or other synthetic or natural fibres.

[0202] The filter media may be hydrophobic and / or electrostatically charged.

[0203] The filter media may be a high-efficiency particulate air filter.

[0204] The filter media may be a pleated filter.

[0205] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a tube assembly including: a tube; and a housing as described herein.

[0206] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a respiratory system including: one or more tubes; a patient interface connected to the one or more tubes; and a housing as herein described.

[0207] The housing may be connected to at least one of: the one or more tubes; or the patient interface.

[0208] The respiratory system may further include a device for delivering gas flow to a patient via the patient interface.

[0209] The device may be connected to the housing.

[0210] In a further aspect, the present disclosure provides a patient interface including: a housing as herein described; and headgear connected to the housing.

[0211] Further features and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0212] Various embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of examples only, with reference to the accompanying figures, in which:Figure 1 illustrates a side view of a respiratory system, according to an example of the present disclosure;Figure 2 illustrates a cross sectional side view of a first filter assembly, including a housing, according to an example of the present disclosure;Figure 3 illustrates a cross sectional side view of a second filter assembly, including a housing, according to an example of the present disclosure;Figure 4 illustrates a cross sectional side view of a third filter assembly, including a housing, according to an example of the present disclosure;Figure 5 illustrates detailed view A shown in Figure 4;Figure 6 illustrates a perspective view of the filter assembly shown in Figure 4;Figure 7 illustrates a perspective view of a fourth filter assembly, including a housing, according to an example of the present disclosure;Figure 8 illustrates an exploded view of the filter assembly shown in Figure 7;Figure 9 illustrates a cross sectional side view of the filter assembly shown in Figure 7;Figure 10 illustrates a detailed view of the filter assembly shown in Figure 7;Figure 11 illustrates a cross sectional side view of a fifth filter assembly, including a housing, according to an example of the present disclosure;Figure 12 illustrates a perspective view of the filter assembly shown in Figure 11;Figure 13 illustrates a cross sectional side view of a sixth filter assembly, including a housing, according to an example of the present disclosure;Figure 14 illustrates a perspective view of the filter assembly shown in Figure 13;Figure 15 illustrates an upper perspective view of a seventh filter assembly, including a housing, according to an example of the present disclosure;Figure 16 illustrates a lower perspective view of the filter assembly shown in Figure 15;Figure 17 illustrates an exploded view of the filter assembly shown in Figure 15;Figure 18 illustrates a cross sectional side view of the filter assembly shown in Figure 15;Figure 19 illustrates a close up view of part of the filter assembly shown in Figure 18;Figure 20 illustrates a perspective view of a component of the filter assembly shown in Figure 15;Figure 21 illustrates a top view of the component shown in Figure 20;Figure 22 illustrates a perspective view of an alternative component for the filter assembly shown in Figure 15, according to a different example of the present disclosure;Figure 23 illustrates a perspective view of a further housing, according to an example of the present disclosure;Figure 24 illustrates an exploded view of the housing shown in Figure 23;Figure 25 illustrates a front cross sectional view of the housing shown in Figure 23; andFigure 26 illustrates a close up view C of the housing shown in Figure 25.Figure 27 illustrates a perspective view of a further housing, according to another example of the present disclosure;Figure 28 illustrates a cross sectional perspective view of the further housing shown in Figure 27;Figure 29 illustrates a perspective view of the further housing in Figure 27 connected to a Y-piece connector;Figure 30 illustrates a cross sectional perspective view of the further housing in FigureFigure 31 illustrates a perspective view of a housing with a condensate trap in the form of a circle opening, according to an example of the present disclosure;Figure 32 illustrates a cross sectional perspective view of the housing shown in Figure 31 ;Figure 33 illustrates a perspective view of a housing with circular fin(s), according to an example of the present disclosure;Figure 34 illustrates a cross sectional perspective view of the housing shown in Figure 33;Figure 35 illustrates a side cross sectional view of the housing shown in Figure 33;Figure 36 illustrates a perspective view of a housing with a plurality of fins, according to an example of the present disclosure;Figure 37 illustrates a cross sectional perspective view of the housing shown in Figure 36;Figure 38 illustrates a cross sectional side view of the housing shown in Figure 36;Figure 39 illustrates a perspective view of a housing with a distribution structure, according to an example of the present disclosure;Figure 40 illustrates a cross sectional perspective view of the housing shown in Figure 39;Figure 41 illustrates a close-up view of part of the distribution structure shown in Figure 39;Figure 42 illustrates an isolated cross-sectional view of the distribution structure shown in Figure 38;Figure 43 illustrates an isolated cross-sectional view of a further distribution structure;Figure 44 illustrates a perspective view of a housing with foam portion(s), according to an example of the present disclosure;Figure 45 illustrates a cross sectional perspective view of the housing shown in Figure 44;Figure 46 illustrates a perspective view of a further housing with foam portion(s), according to an example of the present disclosure;Figure 47 illustrates a cross sectional perspective view of the further housing shown in Figure 46;Figure 48 illustrates a perspective view of a housing in the form of a mask, according to an example of the present disclosure;Figure 49 illustrates a side view of the mask shown in Figure 47;Figure 50 illustrates a close up cross-sectional view of part of the mask shown in Figure 49;Figure 51 illustrates a permeable material, with a material supporting part, as shown in Figure 48;Figure 52 illustrates a cross-sectional view across line B-B of Figure 51;DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0213] The present disclosure relates to a housing in a breathing circuit that assists with managing condensation. For example, the housing may provide: i) a permeable material that assists with managing condensation in parts of, or associated with, the housing. Typically, the permeable material is exposed to ambient conditions (i.e., the surrounding environment of the housing). In healthcare settings, ambient conditions may include room air at a temperature of between 18 and 26 °C with a relative humidity of between about 50% and 70%. The permeable material generally allows water molecules to permeate therethrough, in order to remove the condensate, but may prevent gas and viruses from passing; and / orii) a channelling portion that assists with channelling condensation away from certain parts associated with the housing, particularly filter media (although other parts may be relevant). The channelling portion may form, or be in fluid communication with, a distribution portion. The distribution portion assists with distributing the condensate over an increased area for evaporation.

[0214] The present disclosure also provides insulation feature(s) that may: i) insulate at least part of the perimeter of the filter media to assist in managing condensation build-up; ii) work with a channelling portion to isolate and insulate condensate from other areas, parts or conditions associated with the housing (including ambient conditions surrounding the housing); and / or iii) assist with isolating the filter media from nearby conditions that can create further condensation build-up in the filter media.

[0215] The insulation features may reduce the creation of condensate by maintaining gas temperature(s) and internal surface(s) above dewpoint (i.e. , the insulation features may, for example, minimise cooling in the housing).

[0216] The presence of condensate in the gas flow path may promote the formation of further condensate. The channelling portion may remove condensate from a gas flow (either to isolate or remove the condensate from the housing altogether) to avoid conditions within the housing that may form further condensate. That is, for example, the presence of condensate in thermal contact with the gas flow path may have a cooling effect, so channelling the condensate out of the gas flow path and insulating the gas flow path from the condensate may assist in the reduction of condensate formation. This may be referred to as decoupling the condensate from the gas flow path. The terms 'condensate' and 'condensation' may be used interchangeably to refer to the liquid which forms as a result of the condensing of water vapour in the respiratory gases, and may comprise water and other fluids.

[0217] Figure 1 illustrates a respiratory system 10. The respiratory system 10 includes an inspiratory limb 100 having an inspiratory patient end 150, an expiratory limb 200 having an expiratory patient end 250, a device 300 to assist in delivering gas flow to a patient, a patient interface 400, a filter assembly 500 and a Y-piece connector 600 having a patient end 650. Theinspiratory limb 100 is connected to the device 300. The device 300 includes a humidifier in this example. The device 300 is connected to a gas source. In other examples, the device 300 may include a flow generator. The flow generator may draw in and deliver room air from its surrounding environment. The inspiratory limb 100 and the expiratory limb 200 are in fluid communication with the patient interface 400 (via the Y-piece connector 600). The inspiratory limb 100 provides a gas flow to a patient, via the patient interface 400, from the device 300. The patient interface 400 may comprise an endotracheal tube, as shown in Figure 1, or alternatively may comprise a sealing mask or nasal cannula. The patient interface 400 may be used without a Y-piece or an expiratory limb for non-invasive ventilation, CPAP, or nasal high flow.

[0218] The expiratory limb 200 is connected to a filter assembly 500 in this example. However, it will be appreciated that the filter assembly 500 may be connected at various of other points along the gas pathways to and from the patient in the system 10. For example, the filter assembly 500 may be located proximal to the patient (as an inspiratory or expiratory filter). The filter assembly 500 may also be located at the flow source. In another example, the filter assembly 500 may be located at the outlet of the humidifier. The filter assembly 500 may assist in removing microbiological and / or particulate matter from respiratory gas to reduce the risk to the patient or to other persons, including the risk of transmission of airborne diseases. Various filter assemblies 500 are discussed below to improve the system 10.

[0219] The presence of condensate in a respiratory system 10 may disrupt therapy as, for example, a clinician may need to stop therapy and remove the condensate from the system 10. It is desirable to minimise therapy interruptions. With regard to a filter assembly 500, the filter media 4000 may accumulate condensate causing a significant increase in resistance to flow through the filter media 4000. The filter assembly 500 may therefore need replacing due to the accumulation of condensate, which would also interrupt therapy.

[0220] Figure 2 illustrates a side cross sectional view of a filter assembly 500a. In this regard, the use of a reference numeral followed by a lower case letter in this specification typically indicates alternative examples of a general element identified by the reference numeral. Thus, for example, filter assembly 500a is similar to but not identical to filter assembly 500b. Further, references to an element identified only by the numeral refer to all examples of that element. Accordingly, a reference to filter assembly 500, for instance, is intended to include filter assemblies 500a to 500g.

[0221] The filter assembly 500a includes a housing 1000a, a permeable material 2000a and a filter media 4000a. The housing 1000a may be defined with respect to an axis 1002a. The axis1002a extends longitudinally along the housing 1000a. The housing 1000a includes a body 1100a. The body 1100a is a housing body. The body 1100a includes an inlet portion 1110a and an outlet portion 1120a. In use, gas may flow from the inlet portion 1110a to the outlet portion 1120a to define a gas flow pathway. The gas flow pathway may be substantially parallel with the axis 1002a.

[0222] The inlet portion 1110a includes an inlet structure 1111a. The inlet structure 1111a includes an inlet wall 1112a. The inlet wall 1112a defines an inlet opening 1113a. The inlet opening 1113a is located at a free end of the inlet wall 1112a. The inlet wall 1112a is curved. That is, the inlet wall 1112a is substantially circular. The inlet portion 1110a includes an inlet chamber 1114a. The inlet chamber 1114a includes a first portion 1115a and a second portion 1116a. The first portion 1115a is substantially cylindrical. The first portion 1115a extends substantially parallel with the axis 1002a. The second portion 1116a diverges away from the axis 1002a, in a downstream direction (towards the outlet portion 1120a). In this regard, the second portion 1116a is frustoconical. The second portion 1116a leads into the filter media 4000a.

[0223] The outlet portion 1120a includes an outlet structure 1121a. The outlet structure 1121a in this example includes an outlet wall 1122a and part of the permeable material 2000a. In this regard, it will be appreciated that the permeable material 2000a can form part of the body 1100a. The permeable material 2000a defines an outlet opening 1123a. The outlet opening 1123a is at a free end of the permeable material 2000a. The outlet opening 1123a is substantially circular. It would be appreciated that the free end of the outlet wall 1122a can also constitute an outlet opening. The outlet portion 1120a includes an outlet chamber 1124a. The outlet chamber 1124 includes a first portion 1125a and a second portion 1126a. The first portion 1125a converges towards the axis 1002a, as it moves towards the outlet opening 1123a. The second portion 1126a is substantially cylindrical. The diverging and converging arrangement of the filter assembly 500a provides sufficient surface area of the filter media 4000a.

[0224] Both the inlet portion 1110a and the outlet portion 1120a may comprise connection / sealing features, such as a tapered surface, to connect / seal with a further component. The connection features may comprise any of protrusions, latches, recesses to connect with a further component. This applies to all inlet portions 1100 and outlet portions 1120 in this disclosure.

[0225] The body 1100a further includes a filter media receiving portion 1130a. The filter media receiving portion 1130a is configured to receive the filter media 4000a. The filter mediareceiving portion 1130a extends at least partly around the body 1100a. The filter media receiving portion 1130a includes a first receiving surface 1131a, a second receiving surface 1132a and a third receiving surface 1133a. The receiving surfaces 1131a-1133a retain the filter media 4000a in its position. The receiving surfaces 1131a-1133a also provide a sealing portion between the portions 1116a and 1125a such that gas can only pass from 1116a to 1125a through the filter media 4000a. The filter media 4000a is positioned in the gas flow pathway between the inlet portion 1110a and the outlet portion 1120a. In this regard, the filter media 4000a can assist with separating the inlet portion 1110a from the outlet portion 1120a.

[0226] The filter media 4000a may be substantially circular or oval in shape. The filter media 4000a may remove particles from respiratory gas via diffusion, interception, inertial impaction, and / or electrostatic attraction. The filter media 4000a may comprise a nonwoven fabric of glass fibres (fibreglass), polypropylene fibres and / or other synthetic or natural fibres. The material used for the nonwoven fabric may be hydrophobic and / or electrostatically charged. The fibres of the filter media 4000a may have a diameter of between 0.5pm and 2pm. In some examples, the filter media 4000a may be a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter. In other examples, the filter media 4000a may be pleated. That is, the filter media 400a may include a series of folds that increase the effective surface area of the filter media within a given cross section. The filter media 4000a may have a filtration efficiency of >99.94% for viral or bacterial particles with a mean particle size of 3pm when 'dry' (e.g., before use or at the onset of therapy). For humidified gas, the filter media 4000a may have a filtration efficiency of >99.92% for viral or bacterial particles with a mean particle size of 3pm. The filter media 4000a may also have a filtration efficiency of >96.7% for a salt test with a mean particle size of 0.3pm. In addition, the filter media 4000a may have a resistance to flow when 'dry' of about 0.39cmH2O at 30 L / min. This resistance to flow may increase as a filter media accumulates condensate. Filter media 4000b- 4000g, discussed below, may have the same characteristics to filter media 4000a above.

[0227] The body 1100a further includes a material supporting part 1140a. The material supporting part 1140a supports the permeable material 2000a. In particular, the supporting wall 1141a of the material supporting part 1140a assists in supporting the permeable material 2000a. The permeable material 2000a forms an outer wall of the filter assembly 500a. In the filter assembly 500a, part of the permeable material 2000a is connected to the supporting wall 1141a. The permeable material 2000a may also rest on the supporting wall 1141a. The material supporting part 1140a extends in a direction towards the filter media 4000a. The material supporting part 1140a extends transversely to the filter media 4000a. It will also be appreciated that the supporting wall 1141a may form part of the inlet wall 1112a and vice-versa.

[0228] The body 1100a also includes a channelling portion 1150a. The channelling portion 1150a includes a channelling member 1151a. The channelling portion 1150a / channelling member 1151a provide a cuff around the gas flow pathway. In this example, at least part of the outlet wall 1122a forms the channelling member 1151a. The channelling member 1151a includes a channelling surface 1152a. The channelling surface 1152a assists in defining part of a cavity 1160a. The cavity 1160a branches off the gas flow pathway. That is, the cavity 1160a provides a sleeve volume around (at least a portion of) the gas flow pathway. The sleeve volume extends in a radial direction around a perimeter of the gas flow pathway. In this regard, the gas flow pathway is the nominal or primary gas flow path. The cavity 1160a does not form part of the nominal or primary gas flow path. Gases may flow in and out of the cavity 1160a (but not pass from an inlet on one side of the cavity 1160a and exit on another side of the cavity 1160a).

[0229] With the above in mind, the cavity 1160a is formed from an inner wall (e.g., channelling member 1151a) and an outer wall (e.g., permeable material 2000a). The inner wall substantially follows the contour of the outer wall. A height is defined between the inner wall and outer wall. The height of the cavity 1160a may be shallower compared to the width and / or depth of the cavity 1160a. The depth may also be shallower than the width (and vice-versa). The height may be up to 10mm, or less than 7mm or 5mm. The cavity 1160a at least partly surrounds the gas flow pathway.

[0230] The cavity 1160a has an opening 1161a. The opening 1161a is directed towards the outlet chamber 1124a. The opening 1161a assists in trapping condensate. The cavity 1160a is an open cavity whereby the opening 1161a is not closable, such as by a valve. The opening 1161a is an uncontrolled opening. That is, the opening 1161a may always be open, in use. The cavity 1160a may be a permanent feature of the body 1100a. That is, the cavity 1160a is not located in a housing 1000a that is removable from the body 1100a. The cavity 1160a has a volume of less than 5ml in some examples. In other examples the cavity 1160a has a volume of less than 2.5ml. In this regard, the housing 1000a operates different to other products such as water traps having a moveable valve and removable liquid containment area, and which typically hold larger volumes of condensate. This feature applies to all the housings 1000 discussed herein.

[0231] As indicated above, the cavity 1160a is also partly defined by the permeable material 2000a. The permeable material 2000a forms at least part of an outer wall of the cavity 1160a. The cavity 1160a is therefore in fluid communication with the permeable material 2000a. In this regard, it will be appreciated that the permeable material 2000a may be self-supporting in thisexample, either by (for example) the thickness of the permeable material 2000a or an internal structure of the permeable material 2000a. The cavity 1160a is located substantially around the body 1110a in a manner that allows for a relatively high surface area of permeable material 2000a relative to potential condensate formation rate. That is, an external wall of the cavity, which may be formed at least partially of the permeable material 2000a, provides a surface area large enough to evaporate liquid from the cavity 1160a to ambient at least at a rate at which condensate accumulates under expected in-use conditions.

[0232] With the above in mind, and by way of example only, in response to condensation forming or accumulating in the outlet chamber 1124a, and moving toward the filter 4000a (by running along, for instance, a wall), the condensation will be directed into the cavity 1160a. The condensation in the cavity 1160a can then permeate through the permeable material 2000a. The condensation can evaporate to ambient after permeating through the permeable material 2000a. As such, this reduces the likelihood of condensation coming into contact with the filter media 4000a. Condensate may accumulate and / or enter the housing 1000a at a rate of 0.25 to 3 ml / hr. The rate at which condensate accumulates and / or enters the housing 1000a may be dependent on ventilation parameters, ambient conditions and / or upstream or downstream conditions. In some examples, a volume of water between 0.25 to 5 ml may enter the housing 1000a contemporaneously. As indicated above, the cavity 1160a may accommodate a volume of 5 ml but this can be greater. For example, the cavity may accommodate up to approximately 15 ml.

[0233] By directing the condensation into the cavity 1160a it is removed from the gas flow path. This advantageous as the presence of condensation in the gas flow path may promote the formation of further condensate.

[0234] Permeable material 2000a may be a breathable material. Water molecules on a first side of the breathable material may be absorbed by the breathable material, diffused through the breathable material, and desorbed to ambient air according to a gradient moving from the higher humidity side to the lower humidity side. This is known as the solution-diffusion mechanism. There is a differential in the partial pressure of water within the housing and the ambient air which creates a driving gradient. For example, liquid water is 100% relative humidity and ambient air is usually a relative humidity significantly less than this. The solution-diffusion mechanism causes the breathable material to continuously absorb water molecules from the respiratory gases and condensate (if any), or other liquids (if any), and desorb the water molecules to the ambient air according to the driving gradient.

[0235] Accumulation of condensate within the filter media 4000a may increase the resistance to flow and result in decreased ventilation efficiency. For example, an electrostatic filter media may lose filtration efficiency as condensate accumulates due to loss of electrostatic charge. In addition, the housing 1000a with the breathable material 2000a may increase the lifetime of the filter assembly 500a before replacement by reducing accumulated condensate in the filter media 4000a.

[0236] In further examples, it will also be appreciated that a separate cavity may be provided on the inlet side, with a separate channelling member, to capture condensate in the inlet portion 1110a. With the assistance of permeable material, condensation can also therefore be removed in the inlet side (along with the outlet side) to avoid condensation build-up in the filer media 4000a.

[0237] The permeable material 2000a may be permeable to a variety of liquids and / or gases. A permeable material may be porous or non-porous. A porous material may be permeable to water molecules by the pore-flow mechanism, whereby water passes through pores (i.e. , holes) extending from one side of the material to the other. A permeable material may be chosen for permeability with respect to a particular permeant.

[0238] In some examples, the permeable material 2000a is a breathable material (like the permeable materials 2000b-2000g below). 'Breathable material' refers to a non-porous permeable material that allows the passage of water molecules through a monolithic wall of the permeable material via the solution-diffusion mechanism, without allowing the bulk passage of liquid water or bulk flow of respiratory gases all the way through the wall. It should be appreciated by one of skill in the art that the water molecules in the wall are molecularly dispersed in the media, and are therefore without a state (solid, liquid, or gas), although they are sometimes referred to in the art as vapor (e.g., the rate of transfer is often referred to as a moisture vapor transmission rate (MVTR) or the like). It should further be appreciated that a monolithic wall does not contain open channels or pores from one major surface to another, such that pathogens could be carried through such channels alongside air or liquid water drops via the pore flow mechanism. However, this definition is not intended to exclude a breathable material which may have one or more holes provided through the material, such as might arise from a manufacturing defect for example, which may result in negligible pore flow which does not materially affect the overall performance of the housing and compliance with the leakage requirements of ISO 5367:2014. It should yet further be appreciated that, like all polymers, some small molecule transport of respiratory gases (such as oxygen, carbon dioxide, nitrogen, or helium) may occur in trace or de minimis amounts (i.e., not 'bulk' flow), which, for abreathable material as defined herein, would typically be at a rate at least an order of magnitude lower than that for water molecules. Furthermore, of particular relevance for respiratory gases being delivered to or from a patient, such small molecule transport of respiratory gases would be of an amount less than that allowed for compliance with the relevant standards, for example, in the leakage test of ISO 5367:2014, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety, at Section 5.4 tested via the method set out in Annex E. In some examples, a foaming agent may be used to produce a foamed structure for the breathable material. The breathable material may be foamed structure such that it contains closed cells, i.e. pores that do not extend from one major surface to another.

[0239] To improve the rate at which condensation is removed from the housing 500a, a relatively thin layer of permeable material 2000a may be used. A relatively larger surface area of permeable material 2000a may also improve the rate at which condensation is removed from the housing 500a. The breathable material may be, or include, a block copolymer such as a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) with both ‘hard segments’ and ‘soft segments.’ In some examples, the hard segments may be a hard, rigid, semi-crystalline polymer which may be hydrophobic (for example, a polyester such as polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) or similar). In some examples, the soft segments may be a soft, flexible, amorphous and hydrophilic polymer (for example, an ether type macro glycol). The permeable material 2000a may combine the hydrophilic properties of the soft segments with the mechanical properties of the hard segments. In addition, the permeable material 2000a may have a thickness of between 20pm and 1mm. At least part of the permeable material 2000a extends transversely to the filter media 4000a. The permeable material 2000a also includes a first portion extending transversely to a second portion.

[0240] Figure 3 illustrates a filter assembly 500b in accordance with an example of the present disclosure. As shown, the filter assembly 500b shares a number of common features with the filter assembly 500a but some features are different. For example, some of the common and different features are: a) The filter assembly 500b includes a housing 1000b, a permeable material 2000b and a filter media 4000b. The housing 1000b includes a body 1100b. The body 1100b includes an inlet portion 1110b and an outlet portion 1120b. Gas flows from the inlet portion 1110b to the outlet portion 1120b to define a gas flow pathway.b) The inlet portion 1110b includes an inlet structure 1111b. The inlet structure 1111b includes an inlet wall 1112b. The inlet wall 1112b defines an inlet opening 1113b. The inlet wall 1112b may be non-circular but is generally circular. c) The inlet portion 1110b includes an inlet chamber 1114b. The inlet chamber 1114b includes a first portion 1115b and a second portion 1116b. In contrast to the second portion 1116a, the second portion 1116b is non-circular and / or non-axisymmetric. Accordingly, the inlet chamber 1114b is at least partially non-circular and / or non- axisymmetric. d) The outlet portion 1120b includes an outlet structure 1121b. The outlet wall 1122b defines the outlet opening 1123b. e) The outlet chamber 1124b includes a first portion 1125b and a second portion 1126b. However, the outlet chamber 1124b is non-circular and / or non-axisymmetric. The non- circular and / or non-axisymmetric shape of the body 1100b may assist in biasing the drainage of condensation to a particular area. f) The filter media receiving portion 1130b of the body 1100b includes a first receiving surface 1131b to retain the filter media 4000b. The first receiving surface 1131b may include one or multiple surfaces. Side walls of the filter media 4000b extend non- perpendicularly to the end walls of the filter media 4000b. The filter media 4000b is also a pleated filter media. g) Part of the permeable material 2000b is connected to a supporting wall 1141 b of the material supporting part 1140b. At least part of the supporting part 1140b extends parallel to end walls of the filter media 4000b. h) The channelling member 1151b of the channelling portion 1150b extends in a similar direction to (a longitudinal axis of) the filter media 4000b. The channelling portion 1150b I channelling member 1151b provide a cuff around the gas flow pathway. In a similar manner to the filter assembly 500a, the channelling surface 1152b of the channelling member 1151b assists in defining part of a cavity 1160b. The cavity 1160 is therefore defined between an inner wall and outer wall. The inner and outer walls substantially follow the same contour. The height of the cavity 1160b may be shallower compared to the width and / or depth of the cavity 1160b. The cavity 1160b provides a sleeve volume around a portion of the gas flow pathway. The cavity 1160b extends in a similar directionto the filter media 4000b. The opening 1161b is directed towards the outlet chamber 1124b. i) The housing 1000b functions in a similar manner to the housing 1000a in removing condensation, namely condensation that is channelled into the cavity 1160b to allow it to be permeated through the permeable material 2000b. The permeable material 2000b is exposed to a surrounding environment (e.g., room air in a hospital, medical centre etc) having ambient conditions.

[0241] Figures 4 to 6 illustrate a filter assembly 500c in accordance with an example of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 4, the filter assembly 500c shares a number of common features with the filter assemblies 500a, 500b but some features are different. For example: a) The filter assembly 500c includes a housing 1000c, a permeable material 2000c and a filter media 4000c. The housing 1000c includes a body 1100c having multiple parts including an inlet portion 1110c and an outlet portion 1120c. Gas flow moves from the inlet portion 1110c to the outlet portion 1120c, via the filter media 4000c, to define a gas flow pathway. An axis 1002c extends from the inlet portion 1110c to the outlet portion 1120c. The body 1100c extends symmetrically around the axis 1002c. b) The inlet portion 1110c includes an inlet structure 1111c that is configured to provide a gas flow to the filter media 4000c. The inlet structure 1111c includes an inlet wall 1112c. The inlet wall 1112c is configured to (releasably) connect to, for instance, a tube. The inlet wall 1112c defines an inlet opening 1113c for fluid communication with, for example, the tube. c) The inlet portion 1110c includes an inlet chamber 1114c. The inlet chamber 1114c includes a first portion 1115c and a second portion 1116c. The first portion 1115c is substantially cylindrical. The second portion 1116c is a conical frustum shape. The conical frustum shape converges in a downstream direction of the gas flow pathway. d) The outlet portion 1120c includes an outlet structure 1121c. The combination of the material supporting part 1140c and permeable material 2000c assist in defining an outlet wall 1122c. The outlet wall 1122c defines the outlet opening 1123c at an open end thereof. e) The filter media receiving portion 1130c of the body 1100c includes a single first receiving surface 1131c to retain the filter media 4000c. Side walls of the filter media4000c extend non-perpendicularly to the end walls of the filter media 4000c. In other forms, the sidewalls and end walls of the filter media 4000c may be perpendicular. Gas flow enters a central cavity of the filter media 4000c and leaves through its side walls (not its end walls). The filter media 4000c forms a conical frustum shape. f) The permeable material 2000c is connected to a supporting wall 1141 c of the material supporting part 1140c. As shown in Figure 5, the permeable material 2000c covers an inner surface of the supporting wall 1141c. The supporting wall 1141c includes a plurality of apertures 1142c. As evident in Figure 6, the apertures 1142c provide a fluid (i.e., gas and / or liquid) pathway from the permeable material 2000c to the surrounding environment. In some examples, the permeable material 2000c may cover an outer surface of the supporting wall 1141c. In such an example, the apertures 1142c may provide a fluid pathway to the permeable material 2000c. g) At least part of the channelling member 1151c of the channelling portion 1150c extends in a similar direction to the outer side walls of the filter media 4000c. The channelling surface 1152c of the channelling member 1151c assists in defining part of a cavity 1160c. In this regard, the cavity 1160c is defined between an inner and outer wall. The inner and outer wall may have a similar contour. The cavity 1160c provides a sleeve volume around the gas flow pathway. Accordingly, the cavity 1160c partially surrounds the gas flow pathway. The supporting wall 1141c also assists in defining the cavity 1160c. The opening 1161c of the cavity 1160c is directed towards the outlet opening 1123c. h) The housing 1000c functions in a similar manner to the housing 1000b in removing condensation, namely condensation is channelled into the cavity 1160c to allow it to contact the permeable material 2000c, be permeated through the permeable material 2000c and then evaporate from the permeable material 2000c on its outer side.

[0242] Figures 7 to 10 illustrate a filter assembly 500d in accordance with an example of the present disclosure. The filter assembly 500d includes a housing 1000d, a permeable material 2000d and a filter media 4000d. The housing 1000d includes an axis 1002d and a body 1100d. The axis 1002d extends centrally along the housing 1000d to a define the centre of the radial surfaces of the body 1100d. The body 1100d includes an inlet portion 1110d and an outlet portion 1120d. The axis 1002d extends through the inlet portion 1110d, the outlet portion 1120d and the filter media 4000d. Gas flows from the inlet portion 1110d to the outlet portion 1120d to define a gas flow pathway. The filter media 4000d is located downstream of the inlet portion1110d in the gas flow pathway but is upstream of the outlet portion 1120d. The flow of gas leaving the filter media 4000d, received from the inlet portion 1110d, passes out of the outlet portion 1120d.

[0243] The inlet portion 1110d includes an inlet structure 1111 d. The inlet structure 1111 d includes an inlet wall 1112d. The inlet wall 1112d defines an inlet opening 1113d. The inlet opening 1113d is located at a free end of the inlet wall 1112d. The inlet wall 1112d is curved about the axis 1002d. The inlet wall 1112d is substantially circular. The inlet portion 1110d includes an inlet chamber 1114d. The inlet chamber 1114d includes a first portion 1115d and a second portion 1116d. The first portion 1115d is substantially cylindrical but is slightly tapered (to assist with, for example, manufacturing and connecting with other parts via a taper fit). The second portion 1116d extends transversely to the to the axis 1002d. In this regard, the second portion 1116d is frustoconical in shape. The second portion 1116d leads into the filter media 4000d.

[0244] Different to other inlet structures, the inlet structure 1111d is connected to an insulation feature 1200d including an insulation structure 121 Od. That is, in this example, at least part of the inlet structure 1111 d is integrally formed with the insulation structure 121 Od but, in other examples, it will be appreciated that these components may be separate and connected (either directly or indirectly). The insulation structure 1210d is configured to encase at least part of the filter media 4000d. This assists with maintaining gas temperature and internal surfaces of the filter media 4000d above dewpoint (i.e. , the temperature to which the gas must be cooled to become saturated with water vapor). The insulation structure 121 Od includes a first structure 1211d and a second structure 1212d. The first structure 1211d is connected to the second structure 1212d. This allows the insulation structure 1210d to receive and encase the filter media 4000d. In this regard, the filter media receiving portion 1130d forms part of the insulation structure 1210d in this example. The receiving portion 1130d includes receiving surfaces 11 Sid- 1133d for retaining the filter media 4000d. On this basis, the insulation structure 121 Od engages with the side wall(s) of the filter media 4000d that extend parallel with the axis 1002d. This positions the front wall and back wall of the filter media 4000d, which extend transverse to the axis 1002d, in the gas flow pathway. The insulation structure 1210d helps thermally insulate the filter media 4000d from surrounding components and conditions.

[0245] The insulation structure 1210d includes an engaging portion 1213d. The engaging portion 1213d engages with a first retaining part 1180d. As discussed further below, the retaining part 1180 forms part of, for example, the outlet structure 1120d in this embodiment. In this regard, it will be appreciated that in further examples, the engaging portion 1213d mayinteract with other different part(s) of the outlet structure 1121 d. The first structure 1211d defines at least part of a decoupling portion of the insulation feature 1215d.

[0246] The presence of condensate is cooling, which can cause the formation of further condensate, but by insulating the condensate in the decoupling portion of the insulation feature 1215d from the gas flow path the condensate is thermally decoupled from the gas flow path. The thermal decoupling due to the insulation may assist in the reduction of condensate formation. In other words, decoupling / removing condensate from the gas flow path may prevent exacerbation of the condensate accumulation. A volume of condensate which forms within the gas flow path may induce the formation of a larger volume of condensate owing to local cooling.

[0247] The decoupling portion of the insulation feature 1215d is partly formed by the channelling member 1151 d of the channelling portion 1150d, along with at least part of the retaining part 1180d. The channelling portion 1150d / channelling member 1151d provide a cuff around the gas flow pathway. That is, the channelling portion 1150d / channelling member 1151 d broadly encircles, or extends partway around, the gas flow pathway. The channelling member 1151d is formed with the retaining part 1180d in this example but, in further examples, they may be separate components. The channelling portion 1150d also assists with forming the cavity 1160d which traps condensation. The cavity 1160d at least partially surrounds the gas flow pathway. Accordingly, the decoupling portion of the insulation feature 1215d assists with isolating the filter media 4000d from nearby conditions, including condensation in the cavity 1160d, which can produce further condensation build-up in the filter media 4000d. That is, the decoupling portion of the insulation feature 1215d requires, for example, heat to be transferred over one or more different mediums, providing convection spaces / (air) gaps, which assists in providing a thermal barrier. The decoupling portion of the insulation feature 1215d may be provided with an inert gas with a low thermal conductivity. In other examples, the decoupling portion of the insulation feature 1215d could include a foam. The decoupling portion of the insulation feature 1215d provides an air gap of approximately 6mm but, in further examples, this may range between about 0.25mm to 15mm.

[0248] The insulation structure 1210d also includes positioning surfaces 1214d. To position the insulation structure 1210d, the positioning surfaces 1214d engage with retaining surfaces 1182d, 1192d of the first retaining part 1180d and the second retaining part 1190d. The first retaining part 1180d and the second retaining part 1190d are connected together via respective connecting parts 1183d, 1193d. Once the connecting parts 1183d, 1193d are connected together, the insulation structure 1210d is retained in position via the interaction of thepositioning surfaces 1214d and retaining surfaces 1182d, 1192d. In addition, in order to see the filter media 4000d through the retaining part(s) 1180d, 1190d and insulation structure 121 Od, these components may be transparent. Furthermore, cladding may be provided or included in the insulation structure 121 Od to provide thermal insulation. A foamed polymer may be used as a cladding material. It would be appreciated that the insulation structure 1210d may be formed from various polymers (including polymer fillers). Additionally, or alternatively, the insulation structure 1210d may include, at least partly or wholly, glass fibres (fibreglass), polypropylene fibres and / or other synthetic or natural fibres. Any material / insulation used in the insulation structure 1210d may also be used to form the walls of the bodies 1100a-1100c (including the inlet wall 1112a-c, supporting wall 1141a-b and outlet wall 1122a-c). In other words, the walls of the bodies 1100a-1100c (as shown in the thick black lines) may provide an insulating feature.

[0249] As evident from Figure 9, the insulation structure 1210d forms part of the outlet portion 1120d. That is, part of the outlet structure 1121 d of the outlet portion 1120d includes part of the insulation structure 1210d in this example. The outlet structure also includes an outlet wall 1122d that defines an outlet opening 1123d. The outlet portion 1120d comprises an outlet chamber 1124d having a first portion 1125d and a second portion 1126d. The first portion 1125d is at least partly defined by the insulation structure 1210d, channelling portion 1150d and / or the retaining part 1180d. The diameter of the first portion 1125d reduces towards the second portion 1126d. The second portion 1126d is substantially cylindrical.

[0250] The body 1100d further includes a material supporting part 1140d. The material supporting part 1140d supports the permeable material 2000d. The permeable material 2000d may have a thickness of between 20pm and 200pm (or other thicknesses described). As seen in Figure 9, the material supporting part 1140d is connected to the outlet wall 1122d. The material supporting part 1140d includes a supporting wall 1141d. The supporting wall 1141 d includes a plurality of apertures 1142d (as shown further in Figures 7, 8 and 10). The permeable material 2000d overlays an outer surface of the supporting wall 1141 d. In some examples, the permeable material 2000d is located on an inner surface of the supporting wall 1141 d. The inner surface of the supporting wall 1141 d assists in defining part of the cavity 1160d. The cavity 1160d is in fluid communication with the permeable material 2000d. On this basis, condensation forming or entering in the outlet chamber 1124d may flow into the cavity 1160d via the opening 1161d whilst being guided by the channelling surface 1152d and / or supporting wall 1141d. The cavity 1160d provides a sleeve volume around (at least a portion of) the gas flow pathway. That is, the cavity 1160d surrounds the gas flow pathway. The cavity 1160d is formed between an inner wall (e.g., channelling member 1151d) and an outer wall (e.g., supporting wall 1141 d). The height of the channel, between the walls, may be shallower compared to the width and / or depthof the channel. The cavity 1160d may accommodate up to 15ml in volume but this may vary. The cavity 1160d may be axisymmetric about axis 1002d. An axisymmetric cavity in this form may enable condensate to enter the cavity 1160d from any part of the inner surface of the second portion 1126d. An axisymmetric cavity 1160d in this form may reduce the orientation dependency of the channelling portion 1150d. The condensation in the cavity 1160d can then permeate through the permeable material 2000d (which forms an outer surface of the body 1100d and is in direct communication with the surrounding ambient air environment). As such, this assists in managing condensation by reducing the likelihood of condensation from coming into contact with the filter media 4000d. The permeable material 2000d can comprise similar materials and characteristics to the permeable materials 2000a-2000c. In some examples, the depth to which the channelling surface 1152d extends into the gas path (i.e., towards axis 1002d) may be configured to reduce the impact on the gas flow and / or the influence of the cavity 1160d on the pneumatic compliance of the housing 1000d. In other words, the width of the opening 1161 d will be appropriate to accommodate the volume of condensate entering the housing 1000d contemporaneously without significantly impacting pneumatic performance of the housing 1000d.

[0251] Figures 11 to 12 illustrate a filter assembly 500e according to an example of the present disclosure. The filter assembly 500e includes a housing 1000e, a first permeable material 2000e, a second permeable material 3000e and a filter media 4000e. The housing 1000e may be defined with reference to an axis 1002e. The housing 1000e includes a body 1100e that extends substantially symmetrically around the axis 1002e. The body 1100e includes an inlet portion 1110e and an outlet portion 1120e. As discussed further below, the first permeable material 2000e and the second permeable material 3000e each assist with removing condensation from the inlet portion 1110e and the outlet portion 1120e, respectively.

[0252] The inlet portion 1110e and the outlet portion 1120e have similar features to the inlet portions 1110a-1110d and the outlet portions 1120a-1120d (i.e., structures 1111 e, 1121 e, walls 1112e, 1122e, openings 1113e, 1123e, chambers 1114e, 1124e, first portions 1115e, 1125e and second portions 1116e, 1126e). The body 1100e also includes a filter media receiving portion 1130e having receiving surfaces 1131e-1133e to retain the filter media 4000e. The filter media receiving portion 1130e is formed with the assistance of a first material supporting part 1140e and a second material supporting part 1170e. That is, inner surface(s) of the material supporting parts 1140e, 1170e provide the receiving surfaces 1131e-1133e. The material support parts 1140e, 1170e are connected together with the assistance of a retaining part 1180e. The retaining part 1180e may comprise a structure which constrains the relative locations of both material support parts 1140e, 1170e and inhibits pneumatic leaks. In someexamples, the retaining part 1180e may be an overmoulded ring. In some examples, the retaining part 1180 may be a clamp assembly.

[0253] The material support parts 1140e, 1170e respectively support the first permeable material 2000e and the second permeable material 3000e. Each of the material support parts 1140e, 1170e provide a plurality of members 1143e, 1173e. The members 1143e, 1173e may be struts spanning a portion of the distance between a respective inlet or outlet portion 1110e, 1120e and the filter media 4000e. Between the members 1143e, 1173e are apertures 1142e, 1172e. A supporting wall 1141 e, 1171e is provided on the outer part of the members 1143e, 1173e. The supporting walls 1141e, 1171e are, respectively, configured to support the first permeable material 2000e and the second permeable material 3000e. The first material support part 1140e extends between the inlet portion 1110e and the filter media 4000e. The second material support part 1170e extends between the filter media 4000e and the outlet portion 1120e. The apertures 1142e, 1172e within the respective material support parts 1140e, 1170e are configured to enable the passage of condensate, forming / accumulating within the filter assembly 500e, to the permeable materials 2000e, 3000e. The permeable materials 2000e, 3000e form an outer surface of the body 1100e and are in direct communication with the surrounding environment. As condensation forms or enters in the inlet portion 1110e or the outlet portion 1120e, the first permeable material 2000e and the second permeable material 3000e are positioned to assist in removing condensation that is moving towards the filter media 4000e.

[0254] Figures 13 to 14 illustrate a filter assembly 500f according to an example of the present disclosure. The filter assembly 500f is similar to the filter assembly 500e (i.e. , the filter assembly 500f includes a housing 10OOf, first permeable material 2000f, second permeable material 3000f, body 110Of , inlet portion 1110f, outlet portion 1120f, structures 1111f, 1121f, walls 1112f, 1122f, openings 1113f, 1123f, chambers 1114f, 1124f, first portions 1115f, 1125f, second portions 1116f, 1126f, filter media receiving portion 1130f, receiving surfaces 1131f-1133f, material supporting parts 1140f, 1170f, supporting walls 1141f, 1171f, apertures 1142f, 1172f, members 1143f, 1173f and retaining part 1180f). However, a notable difference between the filter assembly 500f and the filter assembly 500e is that the first permeable material 2000f and the second permeable material 3000f are located on an inner portion of the material supporting parts 1140f, 1170f, respectively. That being said, the filter assembly 500e and the filter assembly 500f work in substantially the same manner.

[0255] Figures 15 to 21 illustrate a filter assembly 500g according to an example of the present disclosure. The filter assembly 500g may be directed towards managing condensate enteringthe filter assembly 500g from an expiratory limb rather than, for instance, a ventilator. This is because the filter assembly 500g may be a bubble CPAP filter with the expiratory limb connected to the upwardly facing inlet. The bubbler of a bubble CPAP setup is located at an end of the expiratory limb. The bubbler helps set the pressure in the system.

[0256] The filter assembly 500g includes a housing 1000g, a first permeable material 2000g, a second permeable material 3000g and a filter media 4000g. The housing 1000g may be defined with reference to an axis 1002g. The housing 1000g includes a body 1100g having an inlet portion 1110g and an outlet portion 1120g. As shown in Figure 18, the axis 1002g extends centrally along the housing 1000g, in a direction from the inlet portion 1110g to the outlet portion 1120g. Gas flows from the inlet portion 1110g to the outlet portion 1120g to define a gas flow pathway and / or direction.

[0257] The inlet portion 1110g includes an inlet structure 1111g, a filter media receiving portion 1130g, a first material supporting part 1140g and a channelling portion 1150g. In this example, the inlet structure 1111g incorporates at least part of the filter media receiving portion 1130g, the first material supporting part 1140g and the channelling portion 1150g (into one component) but, in other examples, these may be separate components. The inlet structure 1111g further includes an inlet wall 1112g. The inlet wall 1112g defines an inlet opening 1113g. The inlet opening 1113g is located at a free end of the inlet wall 1112g. The inlet wall 1112g is curved about the axis 1002g. The inlet portion 1110d includes an inlet chamber 1114g. The inlet chamber 1114g includes a first portion 1115g and a second portion 1116g. The first portion 1115g is substantially cylindrical. The first portion 1115g located upstream of the channelling portion 1150g, whilst the second portion 1116g is located adjacent / downstream of the channelling portion 1150g.

[0258] As shown further in Figures 18 to 19, an underside part of the inlet structure 1111g includes a filter media receiving portion 1130g. The filter media receiving portion 1130g is configured to receive at least part of the filter media 4000g. The filter media receiving portion 1130g includes a first receiving surface 1131g and a second receiving surface 1132g on the inlet structure 1111g. A third receiving surface 1133g is provided through the second material supporting part 1170g and / or the second permeable material 3000g.

[0259] The first material supporting part 1140g supports the first permeable material 2000g at either ends. That is, one part of the permeable material 2000g rests on the first material supporting part 1140g and is secured to the first material supporting part 1140g via part of thefirst retaining part 1180. Another part of the permeable material 2000g wraps around an end of the first material support part 1140g to secure the permeable material 2000g in place.

[0260] The channelling portion 1150g includes a plurality of channelling members 1151g (as shown in Figure 21). The channelling members 1151g provide cuff portion(s) around the gas flow pathway. The channelling members 1151g are placed equal distances apart from each other around the axis 1002g. The channelling members 1151g each form a v-like shape. That is, each channelling member 1151g includes a leading member 1153g that separates two guiding members 1154g. The guiding members 1154g extend transversely to one another. The leading member 1153g and guiding members 1154g also extend transversely to the axis 1002g. A channelling surface 1152g extends around the leading member 1153g and guiding members 1154g. Adjacent channelling members 1151g provide a path for condensation to follow towards the dispersing surface 1155g. That is, between separate channelling surfaces 1152g, a path for condensation to follow is provided. The dispersing surface 1155g allows condensation to be positioned around the periphery of the inlet structure 1111g. The dispersing surface 1155g is therefore located outboard from the channelling members 1151g. Between each set of guiding members 1154g for one channelling member 1151g is a channel aperture 1156g. The channel aperture 1156g provides a pathway for gas to flow to the filter media 4000g.

[0261] Figure 22 illustrates an alternative example of the channelling portion 1150g in the form of channelling portion 1150g'. The channelling portion 1150g' includes one or more channelling members 1151g' having a leading member 1153g' that separates two guiding members 1154g'. The leading member 1153g' and / or guiding members 1154g can be angled between 0° and 40° with respect to the axis 1002g. An optimum angle will depend on the flow area between adjacent leading members 1153g' and the channel apertures 1156g'. As indicated above, condensate will typically move towards the dispersing surface 1155g' as it moves past opposing channelling surfaces 1152g (as indicated by the dash-dash line arrow). Gas flow to or from the patient will pass through the channel apertures 1156g' and then to filter media 4000a (as indicated by the solid line arrow).

[0262] The permeable material 2000g and at least part of the channelling portion 1150g provide a cavity 1160g. As condensation builds in the cavity 1160g, and gas flow continues to pass through the cavity 1160g / second portion 1116g, the permeable material 2000g is able to expand with the assistance of expansion formations 2010g. The expansion formations 2010g provide increased surface area for the permeable material 2000g. The expansion formations 2010g are in the form of a sine-like wave. With the permeable material 2000g being in fluid communication with the condensation in the cavity 1160g, it will be appreciated thatcondensation is able to be removed via the first permeable material 2000g. This assists with managing condensation from coming into contact with the filter media 4000g. In addition, the cavity 1160g is separated from the first portion 1125g forming a cavity in this example by a number of barriers, including the channelling member 1151g, supporting wall 1171g etc.

[0263] To contain the expansion of the first permeable material 2000g, a first retaining part 1180g is provided. The first retaining part 1180g includes a plurality of retaining members 1181g. The retaining members 1181g form an overlaying structure over the first permeable material 2000g. In further examples, it would be appreciated that, for example, one retaining member in the form of a cover could be provided. In this regard, the first retaining part 1180g is configured to constrain the expansion of the permeable material 2000g as it readily absorbs water molecules. If the rate of evaporation from the permeable material 2000g is less than the rate at which it absorbs water then it will retain water over time. In addition, as the permeable material 2000g expands, it needs to be constrained to preserve functions of the system. This may be particularly important with respect to pneumatic compliance of the respiratory circuit. In addition, the first retaining part 1180g includes retaining surfaces 1182g that are configured to retain a retaining tab 2020g of the first permeable material 2000g. The engagement of each retaining surface 1182 / retaining tab 2020g assists with securing the first permeable material 2000g in place.

[0264] The first retaining part 1180g is held in place with the assistance of a second retaining part 1190g. The first retaining part 1180g and the second retaining part 1190g are connected via respective connecting parts 1183g, 1193g. Connecting part 1193g is in the form of a resiliently flexible clip. The second retaining part 1190g also includes a second material supporting part 1170g. The second material supporting part 1170g includes a supporting wall 1171g that supports the second permeable material 3000g. The retaining surface 1192g also assists in retaining the second permeable material 3000g, along with other parts of the outlet portion 1120g. The permeable materials 2000g, 3000g may have a thickness of between 0.4mm and 1mm.

[0265] The second permeable material 3000g is configured to expand, with the potential assistance of the expansion formations 3010g, as flow / condensation moves through the outlet portion 1120g. The expansion of the second permeable material 3000g (including the swell from the condensation and / or unfolding of the expansion formations 3010g from the flow and condensation) is contained by the retaining members 1191g. The outlet wall 1122g of the outlet structure 1121g is configured to be connected to another component (like the inlet wall 1112g) in order to provide a gas flow through the housing 1000g and out of the outlet opening 1123g. Inresponse to condensation moving back from the second portion 1126 of the outlet chamber 1124 to the first portion 1125, for example, the second permeable material 3000g is positioned to assist in capturing and removing the condensation before it interacts with the filter media 4000g. As noted above, this can improve the performance and longevity of the filter media 4000g.

[0266] Figures 23 to 26 illustrate a housing 1000h according to a further example of the present disclosure. The housing 1000h includes a body 1100h. The body 1100h includes an inlet portion 1110h, an outlet portion 1120h and a retaining part 1180h. The retaining part 1180h is configured to receive and assist in retaining a filter media 4000h. The inlet portion 1110h includes an inlet structure 1111 h. The outlet portion 1120h includes an outlet structure 1121 h. The outlet structure 1121 h includes an outlet wall 1122h. An insulation feature 1200h surrounds a portion of the inlet structure 111 h and the retaining part 1180h. The outlet wall 1122h is not covered by the insulation feature. The insulation feature 1200h disposed in this manner is configured to insulate the filter media and the volume immediately upstream of it.

[0267] As shown further in Figure 25, the retaining part 1180h is connected to both the inlet structure 1111 h and the outlet structure 1122h. The body 1100h includes a channelling member 1151 h. A gap between the channelling member 1151 h and outlet structure 1121 h provides a channelling portion 1150h. The channelling portion 1150h provides a cuff around the gas flow pathway. An opening 1161 h captures condensate rolling back along the outlet wall 1122h and directs it to the channelling portion 1150h. The height of opening may be shallower compared to the depth and / or width created by a cavity 1160h of the channelling portion 1150h. The cavity 1160h surrounds the gas flow pathway. The cavity 1160h may have a volume of up to 15ml but, as discussed with other examples, this may vary and could be lower or higher. The opening 1161 h forms a sleeve around the gas flow pathway. From the channelling portion 1150h the condensate can move through a one or more feeding apertures 1127h in the outlet structure 1121 h towards a permeable material 2000h. The feeding apertures 1127h are located around a periphery of the channelling portion 1150h and provide a pathway for liquid from the channelling portion 1150h to the permeable material 2000h. The permeable material 2000h is configured to allow condensate to be transferred through it and evaporated to a surrounding environment.

[0268] The permeable material 2000h is connected to a material supporting part 1140h. The material supporting part 1140h comprises a plurality of apertures 1142h. The permeable material 2000h is connected to an underside of the supporting part 1140h. In some examples, the permeable material 2000h is directly bonded to the material supporting part 1140h. As shown in Figure 26, the permeable material 2000h is offset from the outlet structure 1121 h. Thisoffset in combination with the plurality of feeding apertures 1127h being located around the periphery allows for a capillary wicking channel 1145h to be formed in the space between the permeable material 2000h and the outlet structure 1121 h. The arrangement of the plurality of feeding apertures 1127h and the capillary wicking channel 1145h is configured to inhibit inundation of the permeable material 2000h. Condensate which travels through a feeding aperture 1127h is quickly dispersed, by the capillary wicking channel 1145h, along the surface of the permeable material 2000h. This pathway is shown by dotted line 1146h in Figure 26. The dotted line 1146h also illustrates the evaporation to atmosphere through apertures 1142h. This dispersion enables the full surface area of the permeable material 2000h to remove condensate from the system. This dispersion contrasts with examples where condensate may pool in areas against permeable material with dispersion being dependent on surface energy and diffusivity. In some examples, the permeable material 2000h may have a thickness of about 50 pm or less. In some examples, the permeable material 2000h may have a thickness of about 20 pm. The minimum thickness of the permeable material 2000h may be selected to reduce the likelihood of the permeable material 2000h puncturing owing to system pressure. A distance between the underside of the supporting part 1140h and the outlet structure may be about 0.1 mm.

[0269] The plurality of apertures 1142h through which condensate evaporates may be arranged as a square grid. The apertures 1142h may also be arranged in a rectilinear, non-orthogonal, triangular, hexagonal, curvilinear or irregular spaced grid. In other examples, each of the plurality of apertures 1142h may be circular and arranged with a size gradient or otherwise offset. The shape of the apertures 1142h may vary and include a circular, triangular, square or other shape with more than four sides. The shape of the apertures may be selected to reduce stress concentrations in the permeable material. The bond between the permeable material 2000h and the material supporting part 1140h may restrain deflections of the permeable material 2000h owing to water absorption. The supporting part 1140h disposed in this manner may protect the permeable material 2000h from damage by an external impact (i.e. , a puncture). Protecting permeable material 2000h allows the permeable material 2000h to be reduced in thickness (i.e. about 50 pm or less), which provides an increased rate of removing condensate from the system (that is, a thinner film of permeable material has a higher water vapour transfer rate than a relatively thicker film and may enable condensate to be removed from the system more quickly). In other examples, the permeable material 2000h may be located by compression fit between the material supporting part 1140h and the outlet structure 1121 h (i.e., without a wicking channel). The insulation feature 1200h surrounds the retaining part 1180h and a portion of the inlet structure 1111 h. This assists with the thermal management of the housing 1000h. In contrast to the previous example 1000d, the insulation feature 1200hsurrounds the filter media 4000h and part of the inlet portion 1110h and not the entire housing 1000h.

[0270] In some examples, a housing with a permeable material but without a filter media may be used to remove condensate from a respiratory system 10. In such examples, the housing may be located proximal to a Y-piece connector 600 or patient interface 400 and be configured to collect condensate forming at or near the patient interface 400. In a respiratory system 10, the components downstream of the inspiratory patient end such as the Y-piece connector 600, catheter mount, and patient interface 400 may be unheated and prone to the generation of condensate due to the associated temperature drop of the respiratory gases. The condensate which forms at these components may roll back towards the inspiratory limb 100 (during exhalation) and risk being propelled towards the patient due to the respiratory waveform (during inspiration). In such examples, a housing comprising a permeable material may be configured to trap condensate, move the condensate to decouple it from the respiratory gases, distribute the condensate over the surface area of the permeable material, and evaporate the condensate from the permeable material.

[0271] A housing comprising a permeable material may be configured to have a low pneumatic compliance for use in a respiratory system 10. This may be considered in view of the compressible volume of the housing. The pneumatic compliance being the volumetric expansion associated with a pressure increase. It is important for components in a respiratory system 10 to have a low pneumatic compliance to enable repeatable respiratory waveforms which avoid the likelihood of barotrauma and patient-ventilator asynchrony. In contrast to a water trap which may be used in an unheated expiratory limb of a prior art system, the pneumatic compliance may be lower owing to the decoupling between the trapped condensate and the respiratory gases. Similarly, the pneumatic compliance may be lower owing to the decreased volume for the storage of the trapped condensate. For use in a respiratory system 10, a housing comprising a permeable material may be configured to have a low resistance to flow for respiratory gases. In such examples, large changes in cross-sectional area of the gas flow pathway may be reduced. In a housing comprising a permeable material, the housing is configured to trap a small volume of condensate (i.e. , 5 ml or less) which may form instantaneously and quickly decouple, distribute, and evaporate said volume of condensate. This volume may be referred to a liquid bolus. The housing configured in this manner is also able to trap a continuous volume of condensate.

[0272] Figures 27 and 28 illustrate a housing 10OOi according to a further example of the present disclosure. The housing comprises an inlet portion and an outlet portion for connectionto a respiratory system. The body 110Oi extends in a substantially linear direction. The inlet portion 1110i and outlet portion 1120i are substantially aligned along a linear axis. That is, the inlet opening 1113i faces the outlet opening 1123i. The inlet portion 1110i and the outlet portion 1120h are substantially circular. The housing 1000i comprises an opening 1161 i, a cavity 1160i, and a distribution portion 1162i configured to remove condensate from the respiratory system. The cavity 1160i provides a sleeve volume around a portion of the gas flow pathway. In this regard, the cavity 1160i is formed between an inner wall and an outer wall. The cavity 1160i surrounds a portion of the gas flow pathway.

[0273] The housing 10OOi traps condensate with opening 1161 i. As condensate forms, it rolls towards opening 1161 i. The area of the opening 1161 i may be approximately less than half of the cross sectional area of the gas flow pathway (when the cross sectional area of the gas flow pathway is measured across the pathway). For example, the area of the opening 1161 i may be approximately less than half of the cross sectional area of the opening 1113i. During use, the opening 1161 i may be positioned such that gravity encourages condensate to move towards the opening 1161 i. In some examples, the housing 1000i may comprise rotatable connectors such that housing 10OOi may be oriented with the opening 1161 i at the lowest point with respect to a vertical axis. The opening 1161 i assists in decoupling the condensate from the gas flow pathway. Decoupling the condensate from the gas flow pathway reduces the likelihood of condensate inducing local cooling and further condensate accumulation. That is, the opening 1161 i assists in providing a thermal break between the gas flow pathway and the collected condensate. The area of the opening 1161 i is also sized to avoid greatly impacting the pneumatic compliance and / or the resistance to flow of the system.

[0274] The opening 1161 i includes a first edge in the form of a leading edge 1161 i' and a second edge in the form of a trailing edge 1161 i". The edges 1161 i', 1161 i" may comprise one or more edges. The terms leading and trailing are with respect to the nominal direction for the flow of respiratory gases. In this regard, the leading edge 1161 i' is located closer to the inlet opening 1113i in this example compared to the trailing edge 1161i". In further examples, it will be appreciated that the location of the leading and trailing edges 1161 i', 1161 i" may be reversed or provided in different locations. The shape of the leading edge 1161 i' is different to the trailing edge 1161 i". That is, the leading edge 1161 i' includes a curved shape across the gas flow pathway whilst the trailing edge 1161 i" extends in a substantially linear direction across the gas flow pathway. The different shapes of the leading and trailing edges 1161 i', 1161 i" may be configured to improve the capture of condensate whilst reducing flow resistance thereover. The trailing edge 1161 i” is shaped to reduce flow resistance whilst also encouraging condensate into the opening 1161 i. The trailing edge 1161 i” comprises a lip which is configured to align with theinternal diameter of a corresponding connector connecting to the housing 10OOi. A corresponding connector 700i is shown in dashed lines for context. The lip comprises a ramp / bevel which enables condensate to roll into the opening. In some examples, the leading edge 1161 i’ may comprise a shape to inhibit condensate from moving past the opening 1161 i towards the inlet opening 1113i. For example, the leading edge 1161 i’ may extend a greater distance towards a longitudinal axis of gas flow compared to the trailing edge 1161 i” (not shown). The distance between the leading and trailing edges 1161 i', 1161 i" is configured such that surface tension of the condensate cannot cause condensate to span the opening 1161 i. This may depend on the material of the housing and the surface area which a given droplet of condensate occupies. In some examples, a minimum distance between leading and trailing edges may be about 2 mm. The maximum distance between the leading and trailing edges 1161 i', 1161 i" is configured to have a negligible effect on the gas flow. This may depend on the internal diameter of the opening 1113i, in some examples an opening 1113i with an internal diameter of 19 mm may have a maximum distance between leading and trailing edges of about 7 mm. In other examples, the shape of the leading and trailing edges 1161 i', 1161 i" may be different, including a combination of linear and curved shapes.

[0275] Once the condensate flows into / through the opening 1161 i, it is contained within a cavity 1160i and moves towards a distribution portion 1162i. The opening 1161 i assists in initially capturing or trapping the condensate. The distribution portion 1162i comprises a permeable material 2000i as previously described. The distribution portion 1162i includes, in this example, a distribution element 1163i. The distribution element 1163i includes a plurality of folds 1167i. The folds 1167i increase the surface area over which the condensate can be positioned to evaporate. That is, the distribution portion 1162i breaks up the condensate (or liquid bolus) into a large network. The distribution portion 1162i assists in preventing the accumulation of condensate into its natural sphere shape by spreading it thinly over the distribution portion 1162i. The larger network of the distribution portion 1162i has a high surface area to volume ratio. Each fold 1167i is separated by a gap to the adjacent fold. This breaks the condensate up into a thin, large area for evaporation. In some examples, the cavity 1160i is adapted to accommodate a condensate volume of about 5 ml to be transferred to the distribution portion 1162i. A wall of the cavity 1160i formed of a permeable material may have a surface area of less than about 1,600 mm2whereas the permeable material of the distribution portion 1162i may have a surface area of about 33,200 mm2. Therefore, a volume of condensate moving from the cavity to the distribution portion may increase in surface area by a factor of about 21. In some examples, the increase in surface area of the condensate may be between a factor of 5 and 25. The increase in surface of the condensate may depend on the permeability of the distribution portion 1162i and the dimensions of both the cavity 1160i and the distribution portion1162i. The configuration of the distribution portion 1162i may be determined by a target condensate evaporation rate. In some examples, a target evaporation rate may be about 2.5 ml / hr. The surface area required for the distribution portion 1162i will depend on the material properties of the permeable material 2000i to achieve the target evaporation rate. The channels within the distribution elements 1163i may provide a capillary wicking effect to disperse the condensate. Capillary wicking relies on narrow channel geometry to propel liquid by a combination of surface tension and adhesive forces. The distribution portion 1162i includes permeable material 2000i to allow the condensate to evaporate from the housing 1000. In this regard, the distribution portion 1162i / permeable material 2000i may form a pleated structure to assist in removing condensation from the housing 10OOi. A wicking effect may also occur between the pleats. The permeable material 2000i is located on a lower side of the housing 10OOi to assist with removing condensate that moves towards it under gravity.

[0276] Figures 29 and 30 illustrate housing 10OOi when connected to a respiratory system. A Y- piece connector 600i is shown alongside truncated representations of an inspiratory patient end 150i and an expiratory patient end 250i. In the illustrated example, the housing 10OOi is configured to be located between the Y-piece connector and the inspiratory patient end. In some examples, the housing 10OOi may be configured to be located between a Y-piece connector patient end and a catheter mount or patient interface. In some examples, the housing 10OOi may be configured to be located between a Y-piece connector and an expiratory patient end. In some examples, a respiratory system may be used without an expiratory limb (such as in non-invasive ventilation) and the housing 10OOi may be configured to be located between an inspiratory patient end and a patient interface.

[0277] With reference to Figure 30, the gas flow paths for inspiratory gas 1117i and expiratory gas 1128i are illustrated. One flow path (i.e., 1117i) is between the inlet portion 1110h and the interface connection 1105h, whilst another flow path (i.e., 1128i) is between the interface connection 1105h and the outlet portion 1105h. A path for the movement of condensate has also been illustrated by 1160i. It should be noted that all fluid movements are representative and may vary in practice dependent on respiratory waveform parameters, ambient conditions, and volume of condensate. For example, the condensate may travel in a horizontal, downward and / or vertical directions as at least partly shown by 1063i. A volume of condensate may roll back and be trapped by the opening 1161 h from where it moves through the cavity 1160i and into the distribution portion to be evaporated from the housing via one or more surfaces of the permeable material. The distance a volume of condensate travels along the permeable material before evaporation from the respiratory system may depend on respiratory waveform parameters, ambient conditions, and the volume of condensate.

[0278] Figures 31 and 32 illustrates a further housing 10OOj. The housing 10OOj includes a body 110Oj having an inlet portion 1110j and an outlet portion 1120j . A gas flow pathway extends between the inlet opening 1113j and the outlet opening 1123j. The body 110Oj includes an opening 1161 j. The opening 1161 j is disposed about the perimeter of the gas flow pathway. That is, the opening 1161j forms a circle. In this regard, the opening 1161j extends about a perimeter of gas flow pathway, in a direction across the gas flow pathway. Channelling members 1151 j of channelling portion 1150j assist in moving condensate from the opening 1161j. The opening 1161j therefore assists in trapping / capturing the condensate. On this basis, the channelling members 1151 j provide a cavity / distribution portion 1162j. The distribution portion 1162j surrounds a portion of the inlet portion 1110j (i.e. , it acts as a sleeve).Alternatively, or additionally, the distribution portion 1162j may surround the outlet portion 1120j.

[0279] The channelling portion 1150j channels condensate to an area 2002j including permeable material (not shown). The channelling portion 1150j provides a cuff around the gas flow pathway. The channelling portion 1150j (or cavity associated therewith) therefore surrounds at least a portion the gas flow pathway The volume of the channelling portion 1150j may be configured to not substantially increase the pneumatic compliance (change in volume due to applied pressure) of the breathing circuit. This is similarly applied to the other channelling portions described herein. The volume of the channelling portion 1150j may be less than 5 ml in some examples less than 2.5 ml. The permeable material is a monolithic breathable material. The monolithic breathable material is housed by the distribution portion 1162j . The permeable material allows the condensate to pass therethrough and disperse to an external environment. To this end, collection of condensate around the gas flow pathway is not limited to a particular orientation given the nature of the opening 1161 j spanning the whole area around the gas flow pathway. It would also be appreciated that in some examples an insulation feature may located between the (primary) gas flow pathway and the channelling portion 1150j.

[0280] Figures 33 to 35 illustrate a housing 1000k with a body 1100k including a distribution portion 1162k with fin(s) 1166k. The body 1100k includes an inlet portion 1110k and an outlet portion 1120k. The inlet portion 1110k and the outlet portion 1120k are substantially coaxial. A plurality of openings 1161k are located between the inlet opening 1113k and the outlet opening 1123k. The openings 1161 k are in fluid communication with the gas flow pathway between the openings 1113k, 1123k and assist in trapping condensate. A first permeable material 2000k is adjacent the openings 1161k. Accordingly, condensate is initially trapped adjacent the permeable material 2000k. The condensate transfers through the permeable material 2000k to the openings 1161k. The openings 1161k span over a portion of an internal part of body 1100k. A channelling portion 1150k assists in channelling condensate from the opening 1161k to adistribution portion 1162k. The channelling portion 1150k / distribution portion 1162k provide a cuff around the gas flow pathway. The channelling portion 1150k / distribution portion 1162k surrounds the gas flow pathway at one or more points.

[0281] The distribution portion 1162k allows the condensate to be distributed over a larger area. That is, the distribution portion 1162k includes a reservoir or collection portion in the form of an aperture 1165k. The aperture 1165k surrounds at least part of the inlet portion 1100k and / or the outlet portion 1120k. The aperture 1165k is in fluid communication with the plurality of fins 1166k. The fins 1166k are substantially circular in shape. That is, the fins 1166k extend in a radial direction away from the gas flow pathway. The fins 1166k include distribution element(s) 1163k. The distribution element(s) 1163k comprise a number of limbs that connect to a membrane 5000k. The limbs are positioned around the body 1100k. That is, the limbs are positioned at equal distances apart around the body 1100k to support the membrane 5000k. The distribution element(s) 1163k are configured to pass condensation to the membrane 5000k. In this regard, the distribution element(s) 1163k may include a permeable material. Similarly, the membrane 5000k may include a permeable material.

[0282] Figures 36 to 38 illustrate a housing 10001 with a different fin arrangement compared to housing 1000k. The housing 10001 includes a body 11001 having an inlet portion 1110k and an outlet portion 1120k. An opening 11611 spans the perimeter of an internal wall of the body 11001. In this regard, the opening 11611 extends around a perimeter of the gas flow pathway. The opening 11611 is configured to capture condensate forming along the gas flow pathway between the inlet opening 11131 and the outlet opening 11231. The opening 11611 is in fluid communication with a channelling portion 11501. The channelling portion 11501 forms a cuff around the gas flow pathway. The channelling portion 11501 surrounds the gas flow pathway outboard therefrom. The channelling portion 11501 is in communication with a distribution portion 11621. The distribution portion 11621 includes one or more fins 11661. The fins 11661 extend substantially in a longitudinal direction of the body 11001. That is, in this example, the fins 11661 substantially extend in a direction between the inlet opening 11131 and the outlet opening 11231. This is different to the fins 1166k extending substantially in a direction transverse to a longitudinal axis of the body 1100k (as in the previous example). The fins 11661 form a wave-type structure in a radial direction around the body 11001. That is, the fins 11661 extend both toward and away from the longitudinal axis of the body 11001. The fins 11661 are supported by a plurality of nodules 11691. The nodules 11691 are positioned at equal distances from other. In a similar manner to the fins 11661, the nodules 11691 include a triangular-type shape. The nodules 11691 include a portion of the fins 11661 extending through them. That is, the nodules11691 each have an opening and the fins 11661 extend therethrough to be retained by the nodules 11691.

[0283] The fins 11661 include a portion 11661' that is fluid communication with the channelling portion 11501. The portion 11661' terminates at the channelling portion 11501. This allows the fins 11661 to distribute the condensation in a position for it to be evaporated. The fins 11661 comprise a permeable material, including the portion 11661', to allow the condensate to be evaporated. The condensate is evaporated whilst keeping the gas flow in the housing 10001.

[0284] The distribution portion 11621 also includes a plurality of apertures 11651. The apertures 11651 assist in providing airflow to the fins 11661, in order to promote evaporation. The apertures 11651 are located on the underside of the fins 11661. The apertures 11651 allow, for example, ambient air to pass therethrough after moving along the fins 11661 from a location near the inlet portion 11101. It is estimated that condensate may be problematic if it accumulates at a rate of 2.5 ml / hr or greater. In this regard, the fins (like other structures described herein) leverage airflow / ‘refresh’ currents around housing to promote evaporation. That is, the fins increase the surface area of condensate that is exposed to its surrounding environment, including (fresh) airflow. This in turn increases the rate of the solution-diffusion mechanism whereby water molecules are absorbed by a first portion of the breathable material and desorbed to a surrounding environment due to a driving gradient. The airflow across the distribution portion may be driven in part due to convection currents arising from the heating of a heated limb, and also in part due to the Coanda effect leading to flow remaining attached to a convex surface. In some examples, the fins may be arranged to maximise surface area exposed to airflow emanating from the direction of a heated inspiratory or expiratory limb. For example, the fins may be arranged with planes parallel to the longitudinal axis of the heated limb. Such an arrangement allows for airflow emanating from the direction of the heated limb to pass through spaces between fins and over the surface of all fins, rather than a face of a single fin, as would be the case if the planes of the fins were perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the heated limb.

[0285] Figures 39 and 40 illustrate a further housing 1000m according to an example of the present disclosure. The housing 1000m includes a body 1100m with an inlet portion 1110m and an outlet portion 1120m. An opening 1161 m is located along an internal portion of the body 1100m. The opening 1161 m, forming a sleeve around the gas flow pathway, extends partway around an internal wall of the body 1100m. The opening 1161 m is configured to collect condensate that forms on an internal wall of the body 1100m. The condensate moves through the opening 1161m and is channelled, via a channelling portion 1150m, to a distribution portion1162m. The channelling portion 1150 surrounds part of the gas flow pathway (outboard therefrom). The distribution portion 1162 includes a plurality of distribution elements 1163m. The distribution elements 1163m form a distribution structure 1164m. The distribution structure 1164m is in the form of a lattice structure. In this regard, the distribution structure 1164m includes one or more distribution elements 1163m. The distribution elements 1163m may form aperture(s) 1165m in the form of a square. The lattice structures form panels that extend in a longitudinal direction in this example. That is, the lattice structure provides individual panels, having a periodic structure, which extend longitudinally along the housing 1000. In further examples, the lattice structures may extend laterally and / or in any other direction. For example, the lattice structures may be conformal lattices, heterogeneous lattices and / or stochastic lattice structures.

[0286] In many examples a permeable material is used with sufficient rigidity to be self- supporting. In some examples, a permeable material may be disposed about a supporting structure such as the lattice structure described above. The permeable material forms part of the distribution element such that it extends into the housing to provide for the transportation of condensate outside of the housing. In some examples a permeable material may be disposed as one or more films bonded to a support structure. In some examples two films may be bonded to each other in a manner to surround at least part of a support structure. As shown further in Figure 42, a permeable material 2000m covers the distribution element(s) 1163m. A first film 2004m is applied to a first side and a second film 2006m is applied to a second side (to form the permeable material 2000m). In this regard, the permeable material 2000m substantially surrounds the distribution element(s) 1163m in the example shown in Figure 42. The first and second films are bonded to each other in the area of the apertures. Owing to the chemical compatibility, the films are not bonded directly to the lattice structure or may only be bonded to discrete portions of the lattice structure (i.e. partially bonded). When not bonded to the lattice structure or only partially bonded to the lattice structure a free space exists between the opposing films which may increase the transportation of condensate along the permeable material owing to the creation of capillary wicking channels 2008m in combination with the permeability of the permeable material 2000m. Accordingly, the distribution portion 1162m spreads the condensate over a larger area from the channelling portion 1150m. The distribution portion 1162m positions the condensate such that it can be transferred through the permeable material 2000m and evaporated to the surrounding environment. In some examples, the permeable material may be applied to the distribution element(s) by a dip coating process rather than as separate films.

[0287] In further examples, the one or more permeable material films may be located between distribution elements. For instance, as shown in Figure 43, distribution elements 1163n may be located on either side of two permeable material 2000n films. That is, the first film 2004n and second film 2006n are sandwiched between separate distribution elements 1163n. In some examples the distribution elements form a lattice structure. In some examples the distribution elements may be a mesh. The permeable material films are bonded to the lattice structure rather than bonded to each other as in the previous example. The permeable material 2000n films are configured to receive condensate disperse it to the surrounding environment. A capillary wicking channel 2008n may be established between these opposed films to increase the distribution of the condensate. In this regard, the distribution elements 1164n may not carry condensate but support the permeable material 2000n to distribute the condensate.

[0288] With the above in mind, it would be appreciated that various distribution structures and permeable material arrangements could be implemented. The space between the permeable film and the distribution element may define a capillary channel through which condensate can move. The bonded arrangement may comprise a plurality of points, discontinuous bond lines, offset bond lines, or bond lines comprising other shapes. The bonded arrangement of the permeable film and distribution element may also permit deflection and / or expansion of the film. The permeable material may expand or swell to accommodate absorbed condensate. The absorption and expansion may cause a film to deflect as it is constrained at one or more points. In some examples, two opposing films are disposed such that a capillary wicking channel is established by the space therebetween. As the capillary wicking channel transports condensate the opposing films deflect to increase the space therebetween such that the capillary wicking effect is reduced. In such examples, it is considered that there is a balance between constraining films to maintain a capillary wicking channel and enable expansion to accommodate the condensate liquid bolus. In further examples, one or more permeable material layers could be bonded to a backing layer which may or may not provide rigidity. In further examples, the backing layer may be formed of a polymer and moulded into any desired shape. Overall, the distribution structure provides a larger area where airflow may be directed across its surface from which evaporation can occur to increase the rate at which condensate is removed from the housing and associated system. In some examples, one or more distribution portions may be configured to deflect as condensate is absorbed. This deflection may increase the air gap between neighbouring distribution portions to enable greater airflow therebetween and evaporation therefrom. The configuration of the deflection of the distribution portions may be due to the orientation of the lattice elements. The configuration of the deflection of the lattice structures may be due to the use of dissimilar permeable materials either side of the lattice structure to induce deflection. In some examples, a permeable material on a first side of thelattice may have a greater expansion due to the absorption of water than a permeable material on a second side of the lattice.

[0289] Figures 44 and 45 illustrate a housing 1000o with a body 1100o. The body 1100o includes an opening 1161o along the gas flow pathway. The opening 1161o is configured to trap condensate. Once trapped, the condensate is channelled along a channelling portion 1150o. The channelling portion 1150o provides a cuff around the gas flow pathway. The channelling portion 1150o surrounds the gas flow pathway. The condensate moves in a direction away from the outlet portion 1120o towards the inlet portion 1110o. The condensate moves through a channel aperture 1156o into the distribution portion 1162o. The distribution portion 1162o includes one or more foam portions 1168o. The foam portion(s) 1168o comprise a foamed structure. As described previously, the foamed structure may be produced by a foaming agent. A polymer forming a foamed structure may be a closed cell foam. The foam portion(s) 1168o, acting as distribution elements, assist in distributing the condensate over a larger area compared to the channelling portion 1150o. The foam portion(s) 1168o extend in a direction away from a central longitudinal axis of the body 1100o. The foam portions 1168o include a plurality of limbs to increase the surface area to distribute condensate.

[0290] Figures 46 and 47 illustrate a housing 1000p with a body 1100p having an inlet opening 1113p and an outlet opening 1123p. An opening 1161 p is located between the inlet opening 1113p and the outlet opening 1123p. The opening 1161 p is configured to receive condensate forming along a gas flow pathway between the inlet opening 1113p and the outlet opening 1123p. The opening 1161 p spans the circumference of the gas flow pathway. In this regard, the opening 1161 p creates a groove over a perimeter of an internal surface of the body 110Op. The groove is positioned between two walls of the body 1100p. The two walls are radially offset from one another. Accordingly, the opening 1161 p provides a circular gap to capture the condensate (particularly when it rolls back from the outlet opening 1123p). The opening 1161 p is in fluid communication with a channelling portion 1150p. The opening 1161 p / channelling portion 1150p form a sleeve / cuff around the gas flow pathway. The channelling portion 1150p surrounds the gas flow pathway and is defined between an inner wall and an outer wall (e.g., 1150p* and 1150p**). The channelling portion 1150p is configured to channel condensate away from the opening 1161 p once the opening 1161 p captures the condensate. That is, in this example, the channelling portion 1150p channels condensate from the opening 1161 p in a direction of the inlet opening 1113p. In further examples, the direction of channelling the condensate may be in other directions.

[0291] Towards an end of the channelling portion 1150p, the condensate is directed into the distribution portion 1162p to disperse the condensate over a greater area exposed to the surrounding environment. In this example, the distribution portion 1162p includes distribution element 1163p with a plurality of folds 1167p. The folds 1167p position parts of the distribution element 1163p to be offset from one another to create apertures 1165p. The folds 1167p are substantially at 90 degrees. The folds 1167p create a square or rectangular type structure for the distribution portion 1162p. In this regard, the distribution portion 1162p is wrapped around an internal part of the body 1100p, whereby each layer of the wrapping is offset from one another. In further example, the distribution portion 1162p may include a spiral wrapping. Overall, the offset layers may provide the reduce the amount of space the housing 1000p occupies. This may provide a benefit for a patient or clinician to reduce the bulk of the housing. The distribution portion 1162 comprises a polymer foam. The polymer foam provides a permeable material that allows condensate to be extracted from the channelling portion 1150p and then evaporated to the surrounding environment.

[0292] Figures 48 and 49 illustrate a housing 1000q in the form of a respiratory mask. The housing 1000q includes a mask body 1100q. The mask body 1100g forms the shape of a respiratory mask for a patient. In this regard, the mask body 1100g is configured to cover the nose and / or mouth of a patient. A sealing cushion 1144q (as shown in Figure 46) forms a seal between the mask body 1100q and the face of the patient. The housing 1000q also comprises a frame which is disposed external to the mask body 1100q. The frame is configured to trap condensation forming within the interior of the mask body 1100q, move it to an external portion of the frame, and evaporate the condensate therefrom. An illustrated representation of the movement of the condensate is depicted in both Figure 48 and 49.

[0293] An unfurled representation of the frame is shown in Figure 51 a cross section of a lower portion of this representation is shown in Figure 52. The frame comprises a trap element, distribution portion, a material supporting part 1140q, and a permeable material 2000q. In some examples, the frame is the approximate shape of the mask body 1100q and conforms closely to the external contours thereof. In some examples, the surface area of the frame may be smaller than the external surface of the mask body. The material supporting part 1140q comprises a flexible polymer to support the permeable material. The trap element 1102q of the frame is configured to extend into the mask body 1100q to capture condensate. In some examples, the trap element extends through the mask body 1100q into an interior lower portion of the mask body 1100q to capture condensate (as shown in Figure 50). In some examples, the trap element may extend between the sealing cushion 1144q and mask body 1100q. In someexamples, the frame may comprise a plurality of trap elements which extend into a corresponding plurality of interior portions of the mask body 1100q to capture condensate.

[0294] As shown further in Figures 51 and 52, the permeable material 2000q of the frame is connected to the material supporting part 1140q. That is, the permeable material 2000q is bonded to the material supporting part 1140q at a series of lines in this example. However, in other examples, other bonding arrangements may be provided. In some examples, permeable material may surround and be bonded to both sides of the material supporting part 1140q. The permeable material 2000q is bonded to the supporting part 1140q to form channel portion(s) 1150q. The channel portion(s) 1150q assist in distributing the condensate over a greater area. The channel portions 1150q assist in reducing the condensate which may form within the interior of the mask body 1100q. The channel portions 1150q assist in decoupling the collected condensate from the interior of the mask body 1100q. The channel portion(s) 1150q form microchannels in this example. The size of the microchannels have been exaggerated for illustrative purposes. The microchannels enable capillary wicking for the collected condensate in the trap element 1102q. In this regard, the channel portion(s) 1150q act as a distribution portion. By way of example only, condensation may travel from the trap element 1102q in a direction (A) along the channel portion(s) 1150q. Neighbouring bond lines have discontinuities at different points to enable distribution between neighbouring microchannels. That is to say that the offset discontinuities enable the movement of condensate between microchannels to increase dispersion of said condensate.

[0295] To accommodate the headgear 6000q of the respiratory mask, the material supporting part 1140q includes apertures 1142q. The apertures 1142q provide headgear attachment points. The headgear 6000q may include one or more straps. In some examples, headgear extends through the apertures for connection with the mask body. In addition, an aperture 1142q' provides allowance for a respiratory connector to be fitted to the mask body. The mask body may comprise holes for bias flow or expiratory flow associated with CPAP and non- invasive ventilation. The gas flow emanating from these holes may increase evaporation from a proximal portion of the frame owing to entrained airflow. This may increase the rate at which condensation evaporates from the permeable material 2000q. In some examples, the shape of the frame may be configured to deflect the gas flow emanating from the holes in the mask body directly across the frame. In some examples, the frame may comprise one or more holes for the gas flow.

[0296] In this specification, adjectives such as left and right, top and bottom, hot and cold, first and second, and the like may be used to distinguish one element or action from anotherelement or action without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order. Where context permits, reference to a component, an integer or step (or the alike) is not to be construed as being limited to only one of that component, integer, or step, but rather could be one or more of that component, integer or step.

[0297] In this specification, the terms ‘comprises’, ‘comprising’, ‘includes’, ‘including’, or similar terms are intended to mean a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a method, system or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include those elements solely, but may well include other elements not listed.

[0298] The above description relating to embodiments of the present disclosure is provided for purposes of description to one of ordinary skill in the related art. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to a single disclosed embodiment. As mentioned above, numerous alternatives and variations to the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the above teaching. Accordingly, while some alternative embodiments have been discussed specifically, other embodiments will be apparent or relatively easily developed by those of ordinary skill in the art. The present disclosure is intended to embrace all modifications, alternatives, and variations that have been discussed herein, and other embodiments that fall within the spirit and scope of the above description.Item List:

Claims

CLAIMS1. A housing including: a body having: an inlet portion; an outlet portion in fluid communication with the inlet portion to provide a gas flow pathway; and a channelling portion that is configured to channel a condensate away from the gas flow pathway.

2. The housing of claim 1 , wherein the channelling portion surrounds at least part of the gas flow pathway.

3. The housing of claim 1 or 2, wherein the channelling portion provides a cuff around a portion of a perimeter of the gas flow pathway.

4. The housing of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a distribution portion is configured to increase a surface area of the condensate from the channelling portion.

5. The housing of claim 4, wherein the distribution portion is configured to position the condensate such that it can move from the body to a surrounding environment.

6. The housing of claim 4 or 5, wherein the distribution portion internal volume is at least approximately 5ml.

7. The housing of any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the distribution portion includes a surface area to volume ratio greater than 1 :1.

8. The housing of any one of claims 4 to 7, wherein the distribution portion increases a surface area of the condensate by at least a factor of 5.

9. The housing of any one of claims 4 to 8, wherein the distribution portion includes one or more distribution elements.

10. The housing of claim 9, wherein the one or more distribution elements provide a capillary action for condensate.

11. The housing of claim 9 or 10, wherein the one or more distribution elements includes a plurality of distribution elements.

12. The housing of any one of claims 4 to 11, wherein the distribution portion at least partly includes a permeable material.

13. The housing of claim 12, wherein the permeable material is bonded to at least part of a distribution structure at one or more points.

14. The housing of claim 12, wherein the permeable material is bonded to at least part of a distribution structure along one or more lines.

15. The housing of any one of claims 13 or 14, wherein the permeable material includes at least two portions located on opposite sides of the distribution structure.

16. The housing of any one of claims 4 to 15, wherein the distribution portion includes one or more apertures.

17. The housing of any one of claims 4 to 16, wherein the distribution portion is located outboard of the body.

18. The housing of any one of claims 4 to 17, wherein the distribution portion includes one or more fins.

19. The housing of claim 18, wherein the one or more fins extend radially.

20. The housing of claim 18 or 19, wherein the one or more fins extend radially relative to a central axis of the body.

21. The housing of any one of claims 18 to 20, wherein the one or more fins extend transversely relative to a central axis of the body.

22. The housing of any one of claims 18 to 21 , wherein the one or more fins include a fold.

23. The housing of any one of claims 4 to 22, wherein the distribution portion includes a foam.

24. The housing of any one of claims 4 to 22, wherein the distribution portion includes one or more nodules.

25. The housing of claim 24, wherein the one or more nodules form foam portions extending away from the body.

26. The housing of any one of claims 4 to 25, wherein the distribution portion includes a wrapped portion.

27. The housing of claim 26, wherein the wrapped portion wraps around the body.

28. The housing of claim 26 or 27, wherein the wrapped portion includes sections which are offset from one another in a direction away from the body.

29. The housing of any one of claims 1 to 28, wherein the channelling portion at least partly defines one or more cavities.

30. The housing of claim 29, wherein the one or more cavities at least partially surround the gas flow pathway.

31. The housing of claim 29 or 30, wherein the one or more cavities includes a height shallower than its width.

32. The housing of any one of claims 29 to 31 , wherein an outer wall of the one or more cavities substantially follows a contour of an inner wall.

33. The housing of any one of claims 29 to 32, wherein the one or more cavities provide a sleeve volume around a portion of the gas flow pathway.

34. The housing of claim 33, wherein the sleeve volume extends in a radial direction.

35. The housing of any one of claims 29 to 34, wherein the one or more cavities includes an opening.

36. The housing of claim 35, wherein the opening extends completely around a perimeter of part of the body.

37. The housing of claim 35 or 36, wherein the opening spans a perimeter of the gas flow path.

38. The housing of any one of claims 35 to 37, wherein the opening is circular.

39. The housing of any one of claims 35 to 38, wherein a first edge of the opening, contacting gas in the gas flow path first, differs from a shape of a second edge of the opening.

40. The housing of claim 39, wherein the first edge is located on an opposite side of the opening to the second edge.

41. The housing of claim 39 or 40, wherein a minimum distance between the second edge and the first edge is configured such that surface tension cannot cause condensate to span the opening.

42. The housing of any one of claims 35 to 41 , wherein the opening is less than half of the cross-sectional area of the gas flow path.

43. The housing of any one of claims 35 to 42, wherein the opening is positioned such that gravity assists in directing condensate toward or through the opening.

44. The housing of any one of claims 35 to 43, wherein the opening is directed towards the outlet or the inlet portion.

45. The housing of any one of claims 1 to 44, wherein the channelling portion is at least 3 mm long.

46. The housing of any one of claims 1 to 45, wherein the body includes a further inlet or outlet portion in communication with at least one of the inlet portion or the outlet portion; and a further gas flow pathway is defined between the inlet portion, the outlet portion or the further inlet or outlet portion.

47. The housing of any one of claims 1 to 46, wherein the body approximately forms a Y- shape.

48. A housing including: a body having: an inlet portion; an outlet portion in fluid communication with the inlet portion; a filter media receiving portion that is configured to receive a filter media, the filter media being positioned in a gas flow pathway between the inlet portion and the outlet portion; and a material supporting part; and a permeable material that is supported by the material supporting part.

49. The housing of claim 48, wherein the material supporting part provides a wall that is at least partly covered by the permeable material.

50. The housing of claim 48 or 49, wherein the material supporting part includes a plurality of members with the permeable material connected therebetween.

51. The housing of any one of claims 48 to 50, wherein the material supporting part extends in a direction from the inlet portion and / or outlet portion towards the filter media receiving portion and / or the filter media when received by the filter media receiving portion.

52. The housing of any one of claims 48 to 51 , wherein an inner area of the material supporting part includes the filter media receiving portion.

53. The housing of any one of claims 48 to 52, wherein the permeable material is located on an inner surface of the material supporting part.

54. The housing of any one of claims 48 to 53, wherein the permeable material is located on an outer surface of the material supporting part.

55. The housing of any one of claims 48 to 54, wherein when the filter media is received by the filter media receiving portion, the material supporting part extends transversely to the filter media.

56. The housing of any one of claims 48 to 55, wherein when the filter media is received by the filter media receiving portion, the material supporting part extends substantially parallel to the filter media.

57. The housing of any one of claims 48 to 56, wherein when the filter media is received by the filter media receiving portion, the permeable material extends transversely to the filter media.

58. The housing of any one of claims 48 to 57, wherein when the filter media is received by the filter media receiving portion, the permeable material extends substantially parallel to the filter media.

59. The housing of any one of claims 48 to 58, wherein the filter media receiving portion positions the filter media in a manner that requires the gas flow pathway to pass through the filter media before it leaves the outlet portion.

60. The housing of any one of claims 48 to 59, wherein the material supporting part provides a channelling portion that assists with capturing condensation.

61. The housing of any one of claims 48 to 59, wherein the body includes a channelling portion.

62. The housing of claim 60 or 61, wherein the channelling portion surrounds at least part of the gas flow pathway.

63. The housing of any one of claims 60 to 62, wherein the channelling portion provides a cuff around a portion of a perimeter of the gas flow pathway.

64. The housing of any one of claims 60 to 63, wherein the channelling portion is at least 3 mm long .

65. The housing of any one of claims 60 to 64, wherein the channelling portion and the permeable material define a cavity therebetween.

66. The housing of any one of claims 60 to 64, wherein the channelling portion provides a cavity that at least partially surrounds the gas flow pathway.

67. The housing of claim 65 or 66, wherein the cavity provides a branch off the gas flow pathway.

68. The housing of any one of claims 65 to 67, wherein the cavity includes a height shallower than its width.

69. The housing of any one of claims 65 to 68, wherein an outer wall of the cavity substantially follows a contour of an inner wall.

70. The housing of any one of claims 65 to 69, wherein the cavity provides a sleeve volume around a portion of the gas flow pathway.

71. The housing of claim 70, wherein the sleeve volume extends in a radial direction.

72. The housing of any one of claims 65 to 71 , wherein the cavity is fluid communication with an inlet chamber or an outlet chamber.

73. The housing of any one of claims 65 to 72, wherein the cavity includes an opening.

74. The housing of claim 73, wherein the opening is directed towards the outlet portion or the inlet portion.

75. The housing of claim 73 or 74, wherein the opening spans a perimeter of the gas flow path.

76. The housing of any one of claims 73 to 75, wherein the opening extends completely around a perimeter of part of the body.

77. The housing of any one of claims 73 to 76, wherein the opening is circular.

78. The housing of any one of claims 73 to 77, wherein a first edge of the opening, contacting gas in the gas flow path first, differs from a shape of a second edge of the opening.

79. The housing of claim 78, wherein the first edge is located on an opposite side of the opening to the second edge.

80. The housing of claim 78 or 79, wherein a minimum distance between the second edge and the first edge is configured such that surface tension cannot cause condensate to span the opening.

81. The housing of any one of claims 73 to 80, wherein the opening is less than half of the cross-sectional area of the gas flow path.

82. The housing of any one of claims 73 to 81 , wherein the opening is positioned such that gravity assists in directing condensate toward or through the opening.

83. The housing of any one of claims 65 to 82, wherein the cavity is located on one side of the filter media and a further cavity is located on another side of the filter media.

84. The housing of claim 83, wherein the cavity and the further cavity are separated by a barrier.

85. The housing of any one of claims 48 to 84, wherein the material supporting part is positioned between the filter media and at least one of the inlet portion or the outlet portion.

86. The housing of any one of claims 48 to 85, wherein the material supporting part includes a surface that connects to one or more walls forming an inlet wall and / or an outlet wall.

87. The housing of claim 86, wherein the surface is integrally formed with the one or more walls forming the inlet wall and / or the outlet wall.

88. The housing of claim 86, wherein the surface is non-integrally formed with the one or more walls forming the inlet wall and / or the outlet wall.

89. The housing of any one of claim 85 to 88, wherein the surface extends transversely to one or more walls forming part of the inlet wall and / or the outlet wall.

90. The housing of any one of claims 48 to 89, wherein the permeable material is positioned such that condensation from flow that has passed through the filter media will move back into fluid communication with the permeable material before it contacts the filter media.

91. The housing of any one of claims 48 to 90, wherein the body includes an insulation feature.

92. The housing of claim 91, wherein the insulation feature is provided between the filter media and at least one of the material supporting part or the permeable material.

93. The housing of claim 91 or 92, wherein the insulation feature is provided between the gas flow pathway and the channelling portion.

94. The housing of any one of claims 91 to 93, wherein the insulation feature includes an insulation structure that is configured to encase at least part of the filter media.

95. The housing of claim 94, wherein the insulation structure avoids sharing a common boundary with an area for trapping condensate.

96. The housing of any one of claims 91 to 95, wherein the insulation feature is provided between the gas flow pathway and an area for trapping condensate.

97. The housing of any one of claims 91 to 96, wherein the insulation feature includes a decoupling portion.

98. The housing of claim 97, wherein the decoupling portion is an air gap and / or foam.

99. The housing of claim 97 or 98, wherein the decoupling portion includes a change between one or more different mediums.

100. The housing of claim 99, wherein the change between the one or more different mediums includes a change between a solid to a gas to a further solid.

101. A housing including: a body having:an inlet portion; an outlet portion in fluid communication with the inlet portion to provide a gas flow pathway; and a channelling portion; and a permeable material, wherein the channelling portion at least partly defines one or more cavities that are in fluid communication with the permeable material.

102. The housing of claim 101, wherein the permeable material provides a wall forming part of the one or more cavities.

103. The housing of claim 101 or 102, wherein the channelling portion surrounds at least part of the gas flow pathway.

104. The housing of any one of claims 101 to 103, wherein the channelling portion provides a cuff around a portion of a perimeter of the gas flow pathway.

105. The housing of any one of claims 101 to 104, wherein the one or more cavities branch off the gas flow pathway.

106. The housing of any one of claims 101 to 105, wherein the one or more cavities at least partially surround the gas flow pathway.

107. The housing of any one of claims 101 to 106, wherein the one or more cavities includes a height shallower than its width.

108. The housing of any one of claims 101 to 107, wherein an outer wall of the one or more cavities substantially follows a contour of an inner wall.

109. The housing of any one of claims 101 to 108, wherein the one or more cavities provide a sleeve volume around a portion of the gas flow pathway.

110. The housing of claim 109, wherein the sleeve volume extends in a radial direction.

111. The housing of any one of claims 101 to 110, wherein the one or more cavities are configured to collect condensation moving in a direction with the gas flow pathway from the inlet portion to the outlet portion;112. The housing of any one of claims 101 to 111 , wherein the one or more cavities are configured to collect condensation moving in an opposite direction to the gas flow pathway from the inlet portion to the outlet portion.

113. The housing of any one of claims 101 to 112, wherein the one or more cavities includes an opening.

114. The housing of claim 113, wherein the opening spans a perimeter of the gas flow path.

115. The housing of claim 113 or 114, wherein the opening extends completely around a perimeter of part of the body.

116. The housing of any one of claims 113 to 115, wherein the opening is circular.

117. The housing of any one of claims 113 to 116, wherein a first edge of the opening, contacting gas in the gas flow path first, differs from a shape of a second edge of the opening.

118. The housing of claim 117, wherein the first edge is located on an opposite side of the opening to the second edge.

119. The housing of claim 117 or 118, wherein a minimum distance between the second edge and the first edge is configured such that surface tension cannot cause condensate to span the opening when the one or more cavities are substantially void of condensate.

120. The housing of any one of claims 117 to 119, wherein the opening is less than half of the cross-sectional area of the gas flow path.

121. The housing of any one of claims 117 to 120, wherein the opening is positioned such that gravity assists in directing condensate toward or through the opening.

122. The housing of any one of claims 117 to 121 , wherein the opening is directed towards the outlet or the inlet portion.

123. The housing of any one of claims 101 to 122, wherein the channelling portion is at least 3 mm long.

124. The housing of any one of claims 101 to 123, wherein the one or more cavities are configured to collect condensation near the inlet portion or outlet portion.

125. The housing of any one of claims 101 to 123, wherein the one or more cavities includes two cavities.

126. The housing of claim 125, wherein the two cavities includes one cavity that collects condensation associated with the inlet portion and another cavity collects condensation associated with the outlet portion.

127. The housing of claim 125 or 126, wherein the two cavities are separated by a barrier that isolates the cavities from one another.

128. The housing of any one of claims 101 to 127, wherein the permeable material covers a material supporting part of the body.

129. The housing of claim 128, wherein the permeable material is connected to the material supporting part.

130. The housing of claim 128 or 129, wherein the channelling portion forms part of the material supporting part.

131. The housing of any one of claims 128 to 130, wherein the material supporting part extends transversely to an axis defined between the inlet portion and the outlet portion.

132. The housing of any one of claims 128 to 131 , wherein the material supporting part extends transversely to an axis following the gas flow pathway through the body.

133. The housing of any one of claims 128 to 132, wherein the permeable material extends along the material supporting part.

134. The housing of any one of claims 128 to 133, wherein the permeable material is located on an inner surface of the material supporting part.

135. The housing of any one of claims 128 to 133, wherein the permeable material is located on an outer surface of the material supporting part.

136. The housing of any one of claims 101 to 135, wherein the body includes an insulation feature.

137. The housing of claim 136, wherein the insulation feature is provided between the channelling portion and at least one other area of the body.

138. The housing of claim 136 or 137, wherein the insulation feature includes an insulation structure that is configured to separate the channelling portion from another part.

139. The housing of claim 138, wherein the another part includes the filter media.

140. The housing of any one of claims 136 to 139, wherein the insulation feature includes a decoupling portion.

141. The housing of claim 140, wherein the decoupling portion is an air gap and / or foam.

142. The housing of claim 140 or 141, wherein the decoupling portion includes a change between one or more different mediums.

143. The housing of claim 142, wherein the change between the one or more different mediums includes a change between a solid to a gas to a further solid.

144. The housing of any one of claims 48 to 143, wherein the permeable material is a separate part from the body.

145. The housing of any one of claims 48 to 144, wherein the permeable material extends substantially around a perimeter of the body.

146. The housing of any one of claims 48 to 145, wherein the permeable material extends transversely to a central axis.

147. The housing of any one of claims 48 to 146, wherein the permeable material is permeable to water molecules.

148. The housing of any one of claims 48 to 147, wherein the permeable material is a breathable membrane.

149. The housing of any one of claims 48 to 148, wherein the permeable material has a thickness between 20pm and 1mm.

150. The housing of any one of claims 48 to 149, wherein the permeable material includes a polymer.

151. The housing of any one of claims 48 to 150, wherein the permeable material includes a polyether-ester block copolymer.

152. The housing of any one of claims 48 to 151, wherein the body includes one or more apertures in a surface.

153. The housing of claim 152, where the permeable material covers the one or more apertures.

154. The housing of any one of claims 48 to 153, wherein the body positions the permeable material to be in communication with a surrounding environment.

155. The housing of any one of claims 48 to 154, wherein the permeable material is configured to expand with the assistance of expansion formations.

156. The housing of any one of claims 48 to 155, wherein the permeable material is configured to expand due to the accumulation of condensation.

157. The housing of any one of claims 48 to 156, wherein a distribution portion is configured to increase a surface area of the condensate from the channelling portion.

158. The housing of claim 157, wherein the distribution portion includes one or more fins.

159. The housing of claim 158, wherein the one or more fins extend radially.

160. The housing of claim 158 or 159, wherein the one or more fins extend radially relative to a central axis of the body.

161. The housing of any one of claims 158 to 160, wherein the one or more fins extend transversely relative to a central axis of the body.

162. The housing of any one of claims 158 to 161 , wherein the one or more fins include a fold.

163. The housing of any one of claims 157 to 162, wherein the distribution portion internal volume is at least approximately 5ml.

164. The housing of any one of claims 157 to 163, wherein the distribution portion includes a surface area to volume ratio greater than 1 :1.

165. The housing of any one of claims 157 to 164, wherein the distribution portion increases a surface area of the condensate by at least a factor of 5.

166. The housing of any one of claims 157 to 165, wherein the distribution portion includes one or more distribution elements.

167. The housing of claim 166, wherein the one or more distribution elements provide a capillary action for condensate.

168. The housing of claim 166 or 167, wherein the one or more distribution elements includes a plurality of distribution elements.

169. The housing of any one claims 157 to 168, wherein the distribution portion at least partly includes the permeable material.

170. The housing of any one of claims 157 to 169, wherein the distribution portion includes one or more apertures.

171. The housing of any one of claims 157 to 170, wherein the distribution portion is located outboard of the body.

172. The housing of any one of claims 157 to 171 , wherein the distribution portion includes a wrapped portion.

173. The housing of claim 172, wherein the wrapped portion wraps around the body.

174. The housing of claim 172 or 173, wherein the wrapped portion includes sections which are offset from one another in a direction away from the body.

175. The housing of any one of claims 48 to 174, wherein the permeable material is bonded to at least part of a support structure at one or more points.

176. The housing of any one of claims 48 to 174, wherein the permeable material is bonded to at least part of a support structure along one or more lines.

177. The housing of claim 175 or 176, wherein the permeable material includes at least two portions located on opposite sides of the support structure.

178. The housing of any one of claims 48 to 177, wherein the body includes a foam.

179. The housing of any one of claims 48 to 178, wherein one or more nodules form foam portions extending away from the body.

180. The housing of any one of claims 48 to 179, wherein the body includes a further inlet or outlet portion in communication with at least one of the inlet portion or the outlet portion; and a further gas flow pathway is defined between the inlet portion, the outlet portion or the further inlet or outlet portion.

181. The housing of any one of claims 48 to 180, wherein the body approximately forms a Y- shape.

182. A housing including: a body having: an inlet portion; an outlet portion in fluid communication with the inlet portion to provide a gas flow pathway; and a channelling portion; and an insulation feature, wherein the channelling portion at least partly defines one or more cavities.

183. The housing of claim 182, wherein the one or more cavities are configured to be thermally decoupled from the gas flow pathway.

184. The housing of claim 182 or 183, wherein the one or more cavities are thermally isolated with the assistance of the insulation feature.

185. The housing of any one claims 182 to 185, wherein the housing includes any one of the features claimed in claims 1 to 181.

186. A housing including: a body having: an inlet portion; an outlet portion in fluid communication with the inlet portion; and a further inlet or outlet portion in communication with at least one of the inlet portion or the outlet portion; and one or more gas flow pathways defined between the inlet portion, the outlet portion or the further inlet or outlet portion, wherein a channelling portion is configured to channel condensate away from the one or more gas flow pathways.

187. The housing of claim 186, wherein the further inlet or outlet portion forms a connection interface.

188. The housing of claim 186 or 187, wherein the channelling portion is configured to channel condensate away from the inlet portion which provides inspiratory flow.

189. The housing of any one of claims 187 to 188, wherein the body approximately forms a Y- shape.

190. The housing of any one of claims 187 to 189, wherein the housing includes any one of the features claimed in claims 1 to 185.

191. A filter assembly including: a housing according to any one of claims 1 to 190; and a filter media retained in the housing.

192. A filter assembly including: a housing comprising: an inlet portion defining an inlet chamber; an outlet portion defining an outlet chamber; and a filter media receiving portion; and a filter media received into the filter media receiving portion, wherein at least a portion of the inlet portion and / or at least a portion of the outlet portion comprises a permeable material.

193. The filter assembly of claim 192, wherein the housing includes any one of the features claimed in claims 1 to 190.

194. The filter assembly of claim 192 or 193, wherein the filter media has nonwoven fabric of glass fibres, polypropylene fibres and / or other synthetic or natural fibres.

195. The filter assembly of any one of claims 192 to 194, wherein the filter media is hydrophobic and / or electrostatically charged.

196. The filter assembly of any one of claims 192 to 195, wherein the filter media is a high- efficiency particulate air filter.

197. The filter assembly of any one of claims 192 to 196, wherein the filter media is a pleated filter.

198. A tube assembly including: a tube; and a housing according to any one of claims 1 to 190 connected to the tube.

199. A respiratory system including: one or more tubes; a patient interface connected to the one or more tubes; and a housing according to any one of claims 1 to 190.

200. The respiratory system of claim 199, wherein the housing is connected to at least one of: the one or more tubes; or the patient interface.

201. The respiratory system of claim 199 or 200, further including a device for delivering gas flow to a patient via the patient interface.

202. The respiratory system of any one of claims 199 to 201 , wherein the device is connected to the housing.

203. A patient interface including: a housing accordingly to any one of claims 1 to 190; and headgear connected to the housing.

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