A humidification chamber

Abstract

Disclosed is a humidification chamber having a chamber body for connection to a base defining a chamber interior The chamber body has a humidification chamber gases outlet, and an opening defining a passageway between the chamber interior and a filter chamber. The filter chamber is defined by a filter cover and an upper surface of the chamber body and has a filter. The filter comprising a filter media located in the filter chamber between the humidification chamber gases inlet and the opening.

Description

A HUMIDIFICATION CHAMBERFIELD OF TECHNOLOGY

[0001] The present invention relates to humidification chamber, and more particularly but not solely to a humidification chamber comprising a filter.BACKGROUND

[0002] It is an object of the invention provide an improved humidification chamber which addresses or ameliorates one or more disadvantages or limitations associated with the prior art, or at least to provide the public with a useful choice.SUMMARY

[0003] This international application claims priority to and incorporates by reference in its entirety U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 730,264, filed 10 Dec 2024.

[0004] In a first aspect, the present disclosure may provide a humidification chamber comprising: a chamber body for connection to a base defining a chamber interior, the chamber body comprising a humidification chamber gases outlet, and an opening defining a passageway between the chamber interior and a filter chamber, the filter chamber defined by a filter cover and an upper surface of the chamber body, the filter cover comprising a humidification chamber gases inlet, a filter comprising a filter media located in the filter chamber between the humidification chamber gases inlet and the opening.

[0005] In some configurations, gases enter the humidification chamber gases inlet, pass through the filter media, into the chamber interior, where the gases are humidified, and exit the humidification chamber gases outlet.

[0006] In some configurations, the humidification chamber gases inlet is formed as part of the filter cover and extends in a horizontal direction from an entry opening before extending downward towards a base of the humidification chamber and / or towards the filter media.

[0007] In some configurations, the humidification chamber gases inlet provides for a flow path to the filter chamber.

[0008] In some configurations, the humidification chamber gases outlet extends in a direction away from the base of the humidification chamber, and optionally substantially vertically.

[0009] In some configurations, a baffle is provided in the chamber interior adjacent the opening of the chamber body.

[0010] In some configurations, the chamber body comprises one or more side walls, the side walls extending in a direction from the base to the upper surface of the chamber body.

[0011] In some configurations, the base is permanently attached to the chamber body, or disconnectable from the chamber body.

[0012] In some configurations, the filter media has a surface area at least 50% of the area of the upper surface of the chamber body when viewed from a top of the humidification chamber.

[0013] In some configurations, the filter media has a surface area between about 50% and about 80% of the area of the upper surface of the chamber body when viewed from a top of the humidification chamber.

[0014] In some configurations, the filter media has a surface area at least 80% of the area of the upper surface of the chamber body when viewed from a top of the humidification chamber.

[0015] In some configurations, the filter media is pleated.

[0016] In some configurations, the filter media comprises an electrostatic filter material.

[0017] In some configurations, the electrostatic filter material has a density of at least 300 grams per square metre.

[0018] In some configurations, the electrostatic filter material has a density of about 50 grams per square metre to about 300 grams per square metre, or at least 300 50 grams per square metre, or about 400 grams per square metre.

[0019] In some configurations, the chamber body and the filter cover are formed from polycarbonate and / or polysulfone and / or ABS (Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene).

[0020] In some configurations, the filter media is located between the upper surface of the chamber body and a lower surface of the filter cover.

[0021] In some configurations, the upper surface of the chamber body comprises a rim, which is configured to support at least part of an outer edge of the filter media and / or a filter frame of the filter.

[0022] In some configurations, the rim extends inwardly in a direction away from one or more side walls of the filter chamber.

[0023] In some configurations, the filter media is retained between the upper surface of the chamber body and the lower surface of the filter cover.

[0024] In some configurations, the filter media and / or the filter frame is located between the rim of the upper surface of the chamber body and a lower surface of the filter cover.

[0025] In some configurations, the filter media and / or the filter frame is retained between the rim of upper surface of the chamber body and the lower surface of the filter cover.

[0026] In some configurations, a lower surface of the filter cover comprises a rim.

[0027] In some configurations, the filter media and / or the filter frame is configured to be retained between the rim of the chamber body, and the rim of the filter cover.

[0028] In some configurations, an upper surface of the rim of the chamber body and / or a lower surface of the rim of the filter cover comprises one or more filter retention features.

[0029] In some configurations, the filter retention features are filter media retention features and / or filter frame retention features.

[0030] In some configurations, the one or more filter retention features comprise at least one protrusion.

[0031] In some configurations, the at least one protrusion comprises a plurality of protrusions distributed around the upper surface of the rim of the chamber body and / or a lower surface of the rim of the filter cover.

[0032] In some configurations, the plurality of protrusions are distributed evenly, or unevenly around the rim(s).

[0033] In some configurations, the at least one protrusion comprises one or more of: one or more teeth or one or more bumps.

[0034] In some configurations, the one or more filter retention feature comprises a textured surface.

[0035] In some configurations, the entire upper surface of the rim of the chamber body and / or a lower surface of the rim of the filter cover comprises the textured surface.

[0036] In some configurations, the upper surface of the chamber body defines a filter chamber floor and at least one filter chamber side wall.

[0037] In some configurations, the filter chamber floor slopes downwardly towards the base, in a direction towards the opening of the upper surface of the chamber body.

[0038] In some configurations, the filter chamber floor is located below the filter media.

[0039] In some configurations, one or more support elements extend upwards from the filter chamber floor to a lower surface of the filter media.

[0040] In some configurations, the one or more support elements are configured to support the filter media to prevent deformation of the filter media.

[0041] In some configurations, the one or more support elements comprise one or more walls.

[0042] In some configurations, the one or more walls extend in a direction away from the opening in the chamber body.

[0043] In some configurations, the walls are arranged in a radial pattern about the opening.

[0044] In some configurations, the filter chamber floor is located below the upper surface of the chamber body.

[0045] In some configurations, the filter cover defines a filter chamber roof, and wherein the filter chamber roof is located above the upper surface of the chamber body when the filter cover is attached to the chamber body.

[0046] In some configurations, the one or more support elements extend downward from the filter chamber roof towards an upper surface of the filter media.

[0047] In some configurations, the one or more support elements of the filter chamber roof are configured to support the filter media to prevent deformation of the filter media.

[0048] In some configurations, the filter cover is bonded to the chamber body.

[0049] In some configurations, the upper surface comprises a projection which extends upwardly.

[0050] In some configurations, the upper surface comprises an outward rim which extends in outward from a base of the projection.

[0051] In some configurations, the projection is located between the rim and the outward rim.

[0052] In some configurations, the filter cover comprises a skirt, and wherein the skirt of the filter cover is bonded to the projection of the chamber body.

[0053] In some configurations, the filter chamber comprises a filtered side between the filter media and the humidification chamber gases inlet, and an unfiltered side between the filter media and the opening in the upper surface of the chamber body.

[0054] In some configurations, the filtered side of the filter chamber is sealed from the unfiltered side of the filter chamber, such that any flow of gases from the filtered side to the unfiltered side is across the filter media

[0055] Wherein the chamber body and the filter cover are joined by ultrasonically welding and / or gluing and / or a snap fit mechanism and / or a latching mechanism.

[0056] In some configurations, a gasket is provided between the chamber body and the filter cover to provide a seal between the chamber body and the filter cover.

[0057] In some configurations, the chamber body comprises a nebuliser port, the nebuliser port for receiving a nebuliser and / or nebulised particles from a nebuliser.

[0058] In some configurations, the nebuliser port extends through a sidewall of the chamber.

[0059] In some configurations, the nebuliser port is located adjacent the humidification chamber gases outlet.

[0060] In some configurations, the nebuliser port is located substantially perpendicular to the humidification chamber gases outlet.

[0061] In some configurations, the nebuliser port extends towards an entry into the humidification chamber gases outlet.

[0062] In some configurations, the nebuliser port extends into the chamber interior of the humidification chamber.

[0063] In a second aspect there is disclosed humidification chamber comprising: a chamber body and a base defining a chamber interior, the chamber body comprising an upper surface, a filter cover being configured to be attached to the chamber body, wherein the chamber body comprises a rim located on the upper surface of the chamber body, a filter comprising a filter media, wherein at least part of an outer edge of the filter media is configured to be supported by the rim, and be retained between the rim and the filter cover.

[0064] In some configurations, gases enter the humidification chamber gases inlet, pass through the filter media, into the chamber interior, where the gases are humidified, and exit the humidification chamber gases outlet.

[0065] In some configurations, the humidification chamber gases inlet is formed as part of the filter cover and extends in a horizontal direction from an entry opening before extending downward towards a base of the humidification chamber and / or towards the filter media.

[0066] In some configurations, the humidification chamber gases inlet provides for a flow path to the filter chamber.

[0067] In some configurations, the humidification chamber gases outlet extends in a direction away from the base of the humidification chamber, and optionally substantially vertically.

[0068] In some configurations, a baffle is provided in the chamber interior adjacent the opening of the chamber body.

[0069] In some configurations, the chamber body comprises one or more side walls, the side walls extending in a direction from the base to the upper surface of the chamber body.

[0070] In some configurations, the base is permanently attached to the chamber body, or disconnectable from the chamber body.

[0071] In some configurations, the filter media has a surface area at least 50% of the area of the upper surface of the chamber body when viewed from a top of the humidification chamber.

[0072] In some configurations, the filter media has a surface area between about 50% and about 80% of the area of the upper surface of the chamber body when viewed from a top of the humidification chamber.

[0073] In some configurations, the filter media has a surface area at least 80% of the area of the upper surface of the chamber body when viewed from a top of the humidification chamber.

[0074] In some configurations, the filter media is pleated.

[0075] In some configurations, the filter media comprises an electrostatic filter material.

[0076] In some configurations, the electrostatic filter material has a density of at least 300 grams per square metre.

[0077] In some configurations, the electrostatic filter material has a density of about 50 grams per square metre to about 300 grams per square metre, or at least 300 50 grams per square metre, or about 400 grams per square metre.

[0078] In some configurations, the chamber body and the filter cover are formed from polycarbonate and / or polysulfone and / or ABS (Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene).

[0079] In some configurations, the filter media is located between the upper surface of the chamber body and a lower surface of the filter cover.

[0080] In some configurations, the upper surface of the chamber body comprises a rim, which is configured to support at least part of an outer edge of the filter media and / or a filter frame of the filter.

[0081] In some configurations, the rim extends inwardly in a direction away from one or more side walls of the filter chamber.

[0082] In some configurations, the filter media is retained between the upper surface of the chamber body and the lower surface of the filter cover.

[0083] In some configurations, the filter media and / or the filter frame is located between the rim of the upper surface of the chamber body and a lower surface of the filter cover.

[0084] In some configurations, the filter media and / or the filter frame is retained between the rim of upper surface of the chamber body and the lower surface of the filter cover.

[0085] In some configurations, a lower surface of the filter cover comprises a rim.

[0086] In some configurations, the filter media and / or the filter frame is configured to be retained between the rim of the chamber body, and the rim of the filter cover.

[0087] In some configurations, an upper surface of the rim of the chamber body and / or a lower surface of the rim of the filter cover comprises one or more filter retention features.

[0088] In some configurations, the filter retention features are filter media retention features and / or filter frame retention features.

[0089] In some configurations, the one or more filter retention features comprise at least one protrusion.

[0090] In some configurations, the at least one protrusion comprises a plurality of protrusions distributed around the upper surface of the rim of the chamber body and / or a lower surface of the rim of the filter cover.

[0091] In some configurations, the plurality of protrusions are distributed evenly, or unevenly around the rim(s).

[0092] In some configurations, the at least one protrusion comprises one or more of: one or more teeth or one or more bumps.

[0093] In some configurations, the one or more filter retention feature comprises a textured surface.

[0094] In some configurations, the entire upper surface of the rim of the chamber body and / or a lower surface of the rim of the filter cover comprises the textured surface.

[0095] In some configurations, the upper surface of the chamber body defines a filter chamber floor and at least one filter chamber side wall.

[0096] In some configurations, the filter chamber floor slopes downwardly towards the base, in a direction towards the opening of the upper surface of the chamber body.

[0097] In some configurations, the filter chamber floor is located below the filter media.

[0098] In some configurations, one or more support elements extend upwards from the filter chamber floor to a lower surface of the filter media.

[0099] In some configurations, the one or more support elements are configured to support the filter media to prevent deformation of the filter media.

[0100] In some configurations, the one or more support elements comprise one or more walls.

[0101] In some configurations, the one or more walls extend in a direction away from the opening in the chamber body.

[0102] In some configurations, the walls are arranged in a radial pattern about the opening.

[0103] In some configurations, the filter chamber floor is located below the upper surface of the chamber body.

[0104] In some configurations, the filter cover defines a filter chamber roof, and wherein the filter chamber roof is located above the upper surface of the chamber body when the filter cover is attached to the chamber body.

[0105] In some configurations, the one or more support elements extend downward from the filter chamber roof towards an upper surface of the filter media.

[0106] In some configurations, the one or more support elements of the filter chamber roof are configured to support the filter media to prevent deformation of the filter media.

[0107] In some configurations, the filter cover is bonded to the chamber body.

[0108] In some configurations, the upper surface comprises a projection which extends upwardly.

[0109] In some configurations, the upper surface comprises an outward rim which extends in outward from a base of the projection.

[0110] In some configurations, the projection is located between the rim and the outward rim.

[0111] In some configurations, the filter cover comprises a skirt, and wherein the skirt of the filter cover is bonded to the projection of the chamber body.

[0112] In some configurations, the filter chamber comprises a filtered side between the filter media and the humidification chamber gases inlet, and an unfiltered side between the filter media and the opening in the upper surface of the chamber body.

[0113] In some configurations, the filtered side of the filter chamber is sealed from the unfiltered side of the filter chamber, such that any flow of gases from the filtered side to the unfiltered side is across the filter media

[0114] Wherein the chamber body and the filter cover are joined by ultrasonically welding and / or gluing and / or a snap fit mechanism and / or a latching mechanism.

[0115] In some configurations, a gasket is provided between the chamber body and the filter cover to provide a seal between the chamber body and the filter cover.

[0116] In some configurations, the chamber body comprises a nebuliser port, the nebuliser port for receiving a nebuliser and / or nebulised particles from a nebuliser.

[0117] In some configurations, the nebuliser port extends through a sidewall of the chamber.

[0118] In some configurations, the nebuliser port is located adjacent the humidification chamber gases outlet.

[0119] In some configurations, the nebuliser port is located substantially perpendicular to the humidification chamber gases outlet.

[0120] In some configurations, the nebuliser port extends towards an entry into the humidification chamber gases outlet.

[0121] In some configurations, the nebuliser port extends into the chamber interior of the humidification chamber.

[0122] In a third aspect there is provided a humidification chamber comprising: a chamber body and a base defining a chamber interior, the chamber body comprising a humidification chamber gases outlet and a filter chamber opening defining a passageway between the chamber interior and a filter chamber, the filter chamber defined by a filter cover and an upper surface of the chamber body, the filter cover comprising a humidification chamber gases inlet,a filter comprising a filter media located in the filter chamber between the humidification chamber gases inlet and the opening, wherein the upper surface of the chamber body defines a filter chamber floor and at least one filter chamber side wall, wherein the filter chamber opening is located in the filter chamber floor, and wherein one or more support members extends from the filter chamber floor to support the filter media.

[0123] In some configurations, the filter chamber floor is located below the filter media.

[0124] In some configurations, the filter chamber floor is substantially parallel to the base of the humidification chamber.

[0125] In some configurations, the filter chamber floor, or a portion of the filter chamber floor is angled downward towards a base of the humidification chamber.

[0126] In some configurations, the filter chamber floor slopes downwardly towards the opening of the upper surface of the chamber body.

[0127] In some configurations, a baffle is provided in the chamber interior adjacent the filter chamber opening.

[0128] In some configurations, the baffle extends from the chamber floor into the chamber interior.

[0129] In a fourth aspect there is provided a humidification chamber comprising: a chamber body for connection to a base defining a chamber interior, the chamber body comprising a humidification chamber gases outlet, and an opening defining a passageway between the chamber interior and a filter chamber, the filter chamber comprising a humidification chamber gases inlet, a filter comprising a filter media located in the filter chamber between the humidification chamber gases inlet and the opening.

[0130] In a fifth aspect the present disclosure may provide a kit, the kit comprising the humidification chamber of any one of the above aspects and at least one conduit.

[0131] In some configurations, the kit further comprises one or more of: one or more replacement filters, one or more replacement filter media, one or more patient interfaces (optionally a nasal cannula, a nasal pillow interface, a full-face mask, a nasal mask and / or a tracheotomy interface).

[0132] In a sixth aspect, the present disclosure may provide a kit comprising a humidification chamber and a conduit, wherein the humidification chamber comprises: a chamber body for connection to a base defining a chamber interior, the chamber body comprising a humidification chamber gases outlet, and an opening defining a passageway between the chamber interior and a filter chamber, the filter chamber defined by a filter cover and an upper surface of the chamber body, the filter cover comprising a humidification chamber gases inlet, a filter comprising a filter media located in the filter chamber between the humidification chamber gases inlet and the opening.

[0133] In a seventh aspect the present disclosure may provide a kit comprising a humidification chamber and a conduit, wherein the humidification chamber comprises: a chamber body and a base defining a chamber interior, the chamber body comprising an upper surface, a filter cover being configured to be attached to the chamber body, wherein the chamber body comprises a rim located on the upper surface of the chamber body, a filter comprising a filter media, wherein at least part of an outer edge of the filter media is configured to be supported by the rim, and be retained between the rim and the filter cover.

[0134] In an eighth aspect the present disclosure may provide a kit comprising a humidification chamber and a conduit, wherein the humidification chamber comprises: a chamber body and a base defining a chamber interior, the chamber body comprising a humidification chamber gases outlet and a filter chamber opening defining a passageway between the chamber interior and a filter chamber, the filter chamber defined by a filter cover and an upper surface of the chamber body, the filter cover comprising a humidification chamber gases inlet, a filter comprising a filter media located in the filter chamber between the humidification chamber gases inlet and the opening, wherein the upper surface of the chamber body defines a filter chamber floor and at least one filter chamber side wall, wherein the filter chamber opening is located in the filter chamber floor, and wherein one or more support members extends from the filter chamber floor to support the filter media.

[0135] In a ninth aspect the present disclosure may provide a kit comprising a humidification chamber and a conduit, wherein the humidification chamber comprises: a chamber body for connection to a base defining a chamber interior, the chamber body comprising a humidification chamber gases outlet, and an opening defining a passageway between the chamber interior and a filter chamber, the filter chamber comprising a humidification chamber gases inlet, a filter comprising a filter media located in the filter chamber between the humidification chamber gases inlet and the opening.

[0136] The term "axis" as used in this specification means the axis of revolution about which a line or a plane may be revolved to form a symmetrical shape. For example, a line revolved around an axis of revolution will form a surface, while a plane revolved around an axis of revolution will form a solid.

[0137] As used herein the term “and / or” means “and” or “or”, or both.

[0138] As used herein “(s)” following a noun means the plural and / or singular forms of the noun.

[0139] For the purposes of this specification, the term “plastic” shall be construed to mean a general term for a wide range of synthetic or semisynthetic polymerization products, and generally consisting of a hydrocarbon-based polymer.

[0140] For the purpose of this specification, where method steps are described in sequence, the sequence does not necessarily mean that the steps are to be chronologically ordered in that sequence, unless there is no other logical manner of interpreting the sequence.

[0141] The term “comprising” as used in the specification and claims means “consisting at least in part of.” When interpreting each statement in this specification that includes the term “comprising,” features other than that orthose prefaced by the term may also be present. Related terms “comprise” and “comprises” are to be interpreted in the same manner.

[0142] This invention may also be said broadly to consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the specification of the application, individually or collectively, and any or all combinations of any two or more said parts, elements or features, and where specific integers are mentioned herein which have known equivalents in the art to which this invention relates, such known equivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as if individually set forth.

[0143] To those skilled in the art to which the invention relates, many changes in construction and widely differing embodiments and applications of the invention will suggest themselves without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. The disclosures and the descriptions herein are purely illustrative and are not intended to be in any sense limiting.

[0144] Other aspects of the invention may become apparent from the following description which is given by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0145] Preferred embodiments of the invention will be described by way of example only and with reference to the drawings, in which:

[0146] Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of an example respiratory therapy system.

[0147] Figure 2 illustrates a block diagram 300 of an example control system 310.

[0148] Figures 3 - 7 show various views of a breathing assistance apparatus 10.

[0149] Figure 8 schematically illustrates an example respiratory system, including a breathing assistance apparatus.

[0150] Figures 9 and 10 illustrate an example respiratory humidifier as a breathing assistance apparatus.

[0151] Figure 11 illustrates an example of a surgical system.

[0152] Figures 12 and 13 show perspective views of a humidification chamber.

[0153] Figure 14 shows a side view of a humidification chamber.

[0154] Figure 15 shows an exploded view of a humidification chamber having a filter cover.

[0155] Figure 16 shows a chamber body of a humidification chamber.

[0156] Figure 17 shows a filter cover.

[0157] Figure 18 and 19 shows views of a filter media.

[0158] Figure 22 shows a cross section of the humidification chamber.

[0159] Figure 23 shows a cross-sectional view of the chamber body of a humidification chamber.

[0160] Figure 24 shows a chamber body of a humidification chamber.

[0161] Figure 25 shows a humidification chamber.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0162] Although certain examples are described below, those of skill in the art will appreciate that the disclosure extends beyond the specifically disclosed examples and / or uses and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. Thus, it is intended that the scope of the disclosure herein should not be limited by any particular examples described below.

[0163] A respiratory therapy apparatus may provide numerous different types of therapies to a user. The therapies may comprise both flow-based therapies such as high flow therapy and pressure-based therapies such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) and bi-level pressure therapy.

[0164] Additionally, in a clinical environment, the respiratory therapy apparatus may be reused across multiple patients and each patient may be provided with multiple different therapies during treatment. Therefore, the respiratory therapy apparatus needs to be able to be safely reused with different patients and across multiple therapies or multiple therapy modes for a patient.

[0165] One option is to disinfect the apparatus when using the device for a new patient, or transferring the device to a new patient. However, this may mean that the apparatus is not able to be used for a period of time during disinfection, i.e., the ‘down-time’ of the apparatus is increased. In certain contexts, such as hospital emergency departments, apparatus downtime may result in acute patients being delayed treatment / therapy which is highly undesirable. Another option is to try and prevent contamination (for example by viruses, bacteria etc) of the apparatus in the first place, obviating the need to disinfect the apparatus between patients.

[0166] One approach to reducing the likelihood of contamination within the apparatus is the inclusion of a one-way or non-return valve which is located at the flow generator outlet and prevents gases (e.g., exhaled gases from the patient) from flowing into the apparatus via the flow generator outlet (flow in the reverse or return direction). The one-way valve may be acceptable for use in flow-based therapies where the patient interface is non-sealing. For example, when the patient interface is a non-sealing nasal cannula interface, the patient can exhale between the interface and their nares, due to a gap between the interface structure and the walls of the nares which allows unimpeded exhalation, or, they may exhale via their mouth, which is uncovered. This means that gases from patient’s exhalation (which may carry contaminants) are likely to be flushed from the system, rather than travelling down a supply conduit and back to the flow generator outlet. However, a one-way valve may not work well with pressure-based therapies. In pressure-based therapies, the system is sealed so that exhaled gases can only travel in two directions: to the atmosphere, via any vents in the sealed interface, or back to the apparatus, via the flow path (supply conduit, humidifierchamber, etc.). Further, during certain phases of patient breathing (for example during exhalation, when the flow generator may back off / reduce flow to reduce pressure) the gases flow may not be sufficient to keep the non-return valve open. For example, the pressure level during exhalations (e.g., the expiratory positive airway pressure (EPAP) during bi-level pressure therapy) may correspond to a low flow rate that is below a threshold to force the valve open, resulting in no pressure being provided to the patient.

[0167] Another approach to reducing the likelihood of contamination within the apparatus is to provide a filter in the flow path between the patient interface and a supply conduit connected to the apparatus and the patient interface, and which conveys the flow of gases from the apparatus to the patient interface. Locating the filter between the patient interface and the supply conduit means, however, that the filter may absorb water vapour from the humidified gases flow, which may in turn lead to the material of the filter becoming wet. The wet filter material may be damaged by the moisture or have reduced efficiency. In some cases, the wet filter may accelerate bacteria growth in the filter media.

[0168] A nebuliser may be provided as part of the system, for example, via a port in the humidification chamber, a port in a supply conduit or a port in the apparatus. The port may be configured to receive a nebuliser directly, or via an adaptor. Locating a filter between the patient interface and the supply conduit means that nebulised particles from a nebuliser (positioned upstream of the filter) may be filtered out or blocked by the filter and not reach the patient — potentially reducing the delivery of a medicament to the patient. Additionally, it may not be certain as to the amount of a medicament provided to the patient from the nebuliser, as it may not be clear how much of the medicament was filtered by the filter.

[0169] Nebulised particles from a nebuliser may also cause damage to the apparatus if they flow back into the apparatus. For example, nebulised particles may cause damage the internal flow pathway and components in the apparatus such as sensing systems and other electronics. Locating a filter between the patient interface and the supply conduit additionally means that nebulised particles from a nebuliser (positioned upstream of the filter) may be filtered out or blocked by the filter and not flow into the apparatus via the flow generator outlet.

[0170] Additionally, locating the filter between the patient interface and the supply conduit means that a potentially bulky filter is positioned close to the patient / patient interface. Having additional components and / or weight near the patient may lead to discomfort for the patient and / or cause issues with the patient interface fit, e.g., by causing dragging on the patient interface.

[0171] Finaly, having a standalone filter between the patient interface and the supply conduit may mean that the filter is overlooked and not installed during set-up of a patient with the apparatus, or it may even be installed incorrectly (for example backwards, if the filter is configured to be installed in a particular orientation).

[0172] The present disclosure provides for a filter which is located between the apparatus and the patient, and within a humidification chamber. This filter may help to prevent or reduce the likelihood of contamination within the apparatus by blocking any contaminants fromtravelling towards or into the apparatus. The filter can prevent or reduce the likelihood of contamination within the apparatus while obviating the need for a one-way or non-return valve, ensuring the apparatus is suitable across a broader range of therapy types and / or therapy parameters. As such, the filter of the present disclosure can allow for low flow rates to be successfully delivered from the apparatus to the patient. For example, it can allow / ensure the delivery of low flow rates of gases during exhalation phases in pressure therapies (e.g., bi-level pressure therapies). The filter of the present disclosure can also allow for the flow of gases to be towards the apparatus, for example, reverse flows during exhalation phases in bilevel pressure therapy.

[0173] The positioning of the filter within the humidification chamber allows the flow path between the filter media (material which constitutes the filter and filters the flow of gases passing through it) and the patient to be adapted to the specific needs of the patient, while reducing contamination from the patient to the flow path portion of the apparatus. When used herein, the ‘flow path portion of the apparatus’ should be taken as comprising the parts of the flow path upstream of the flow generator outlet and internal to the apparatus. When switching a respiratory therapy apparatus between patients, the humidification chamber and any additional flow path components from the chamber to the patient (for example supply conduit(s) and a patient interface) can be replaced without necessarily needing to disinfect the apparatus.

[0174] Even if disinfection of the apparatus is required between patients, it may be that the disinfection is faster or simpler, because of the reduced risk of contamination of the apparatus due to the presence of the filter downstream of the flow generator outlet.

[0175] As described in more detail below, the filter may be located at or near the humidification chamber gases inlet (for example between the apparatus and the chamber interior — the region of the flow path where humidity is added to the flow of gases). This may reduce the risk of humid gases interacting with the filter (for example, water vapour being trapped and condensing, causing the filter to get wet with liquid water). If the filter gets increasingly saturated with water and other solid or liquid particles (i.e., contaminants), its functionality will degrade. As such, keeping the filter as dry as possible may help the filter to function effectively for longer before needing replacement, as bacteria growth may be reduced. Keeping the filter dry / drier may also help to maintain efficiency of the filter, for example by reducing the pressure drop across the filter which may increase when the filter is wet or otherwise ‘clogged’ with contaminants. The efficiency of the filter is based on the percentage of particles of a certain size it can block. The filter as described may also help to prevent or at least reduce how much water vapour travels back into the apparatus, where it may potentially condense into liquid water and damage internal components of the apparatus.

[0176] Locating the filter before a source of nebulised particles or where nebulised particles are introduced (e.g., a receiving port for a stream of nebulised particles as described previously) may improve the efficiency of nebulised substance delivery (e.g., delivery of a medicament), or at least ensure the efficiency is not reduced by the filter. As such, thepositioning of the filter as defined by the present disclosure can help nebulised particles to be delivered to the patient, rather than being filtered or blocked by the filter.

[0177] Having the filter be part of the humidification chamber also reduces the mass of components located near the patient and thereby the amount of weight suspended from the patient interface, as the filter is part of the humidification chamber which is engaged with the apparatus, rather than a component supported by a supply conduit or otherwise flexibly connected to the apparatus.

[0178] Having the filter be part of the humidification chamber reduces the number of components that need to be changed or swapped as the humidification chamber is changed between patients, as compared to having a separate standalone filter component that connects somewhere in the flow path. Having the filter as part of the humidification chamber may also reduce the risk that the filter is not changed between patients.

[0179] Additionally, the filter of the present disclosure may also reduce the likelihood of any contamination present in the apparatus from reaching the airways of the patient.

[0180] A schematic representation of an example respiratory therapy system 1 is provided by Figure 1 . The respiratory therapy system 1 may comprise at least a breathing assistance apparatus 10, supply conduit 20, and patient interface 30. Other modules or elements may be present in the system. Hereinafter, the apparatus comprising a flow generator 11 and a humidifier 12 will be referred to as a ‘breathing assistance apparatus’, whereas the system comprising the flow generator 1 1 , humidifier 12, supply conduit 20, and patient interface 30 will be referred to as a ‘respiratory therapy system’, but these terms should not be considered limiting. The respiratory therapy system 1 may omit the patient interface 30 in some circumstances.

[0181] An exemplary breathing assistance apparatus will now be described, with reference to Figures 1-7.

[0182] A breathing assistance apparatus 10 can be configured or operable to provide respiratory therapy via the supply conduit 20 and the patient interface 30.

[0183] The respiratory therapy may be a high flow therapy (HFT). An example patient interface is a nasal cannula with non-sealing nasal prongs, in which case the HFT provided can be nasal high flow (NHF) therapy.

[0184] It will be appreciated that the components, methods, and processes described herein may be applied to other breathing assistance apparatuses and / or to other modes of operation and / or modes of therapy delivered by such apparatuses. For example, the breathing assistance apparatus 10 may additionally or alternatively be configured or operable to provide pressure-based therapies such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy and / or bi-level positive airway pressure (bi-level) therapy. When providing such therapies, the patient interface used may be a sealing interface, such as nasal pillows, a nasal mask, undernose mask, or full-face mask.Flow Path

[0185] The breathing assistance apparatus 10 may be an integrated apparatus comprising a plurality of key components in a single housing, or a discrete component-based arrangement where the key components are separate but connected together.

[0186] With reference to Figure 1 , the breathing assistance apparatus 10 comprises at least a flow generator 11 and a humidifier 12. With reference to Figures 3-7, in some configurations, the flow generator 11 and humidifier 12 are part of an integrated breathing assistance apparatus 10, sharing a common housing 16. In other configurations, the breathing assistance apparatus 10 could be a modular arrangement of discrete components, with the flow generator 11 and humidifier 12 being separate modules that can be connected together.

[0187] The breathing assistance apparatus 10 comprises an inlet module 110 for providing a gas or gases such as air, oxygen (O2), air blended with oxygen, or a mix of air and / or oxygen and one or more other supplemental gases to the flow generator 11 . The inlet module 110 may comprise one or more inlets for receiving flows of (or drawing in) ambient and / or pressurised air, oxygen, and / or other gases. For example, with reference to Figure 1 , in some embodiments the inlet module 110 may comprise an ambient air inlet 1101 , low-pressure gas inlet 1102, and / or high-pressure gas inlet 1103. A greater or lesser number of inlets may be provided in other embodiments. Some or all of the inlets may comprise connectors (such ports, terminals, couplers, and the like) for establishing fluid or pneumatic connections to the sources of said gases. The inlet module 110 may be considered to form part of the flow generator 11 , the breathing assistance apparatus 10, or it may be a separate, modular component, depending on the context.

[0188] With reference to Figure 1 , a filter or multiple filters may be provided as part of the inlet module 110, at or immediately downstream of the ambient air intake 1101 , the low- pressure gas inlet 1102, and / or the high-pressure gas inlet 1103. There may be a single filter 1106 positioned at the inlet or inlets to blower 1111 to filter particulates and pathogens carried with the incoming gases before they reach the blower 1111. Additionally, or alternatively, there may be individual filters positioned at each of the inlets or intakes 1101 , 1102, 1103. In an exemplary embodiment, a filter 1104 is provided between the high-pressure gas inlet 1103, at or upstream of the proportional valve 1105, in addition to a filter 1106 positioned at the inlet or inlets to the blower 1111 , downstream of the proportional valve 1105 and the intake 1101 and inlet 1102.

[0189] According to the above and depending on the configuration (some components may be optional), the respiratory therapy system 1 can include a combination of components or modules selected from the following:• a flow generator 11 , comprising an inlet module 110, comprising one or more gas source inlets and their respective connectors (if applicable), a filter or filter module 1106, and a blower / sensor module 111 ,• non-return valve 112,• a humidifier 12 for humidifying the gases flow,• a supply conduit 20, and / or• a patient interface 30.

[0190] The respiratory therapy system 1 and breathing assistance apparatus 10 will now be described in more detail.

[0191] The gas sources connected to the inlet module 110 or inlets of the inlet module may include an in-wall (‘piped’) supply of supplementary gas (e.g., oxygen) or mixture of gases, a tank of said supplementary gases, and / or a gas flow source such as an oxygen concentrator. The aforementioned gas sources may provide the respective gas or gases at low or high pressures and / or low or high flow rates. In some configurations, one or more of the gas sources may include a shut-off valve and / or regulator or other flow or pressure control means which may be manually adjustable by a user. For example, one of the gas sources may be pressurised gas cylinder connected to the high-pressure gas inlet 1103 via a regulator and shut-off valve.

[0192] The flow generator 11 comprises a blower / sensor module 111 that at least comprises a blower 1111 that controls flows delivered to a patient via the supply conduit 20 and patient interface 30. The blower 1111 may be a centrifugal blower, comprising at least a motor and impeller or fan that is driven by the motor. Other types of blowers may be employed, such as axial blowers. The flow rate and / or pressure of flows of gases being output by the flow generator 11 can be controlled by varying the output of the blower 1111 , for example by varying the rotational speed of the motor driving the impeller or fan. The flow generator may be configured to provide flows of gases at high flow rates. Examples of high flow rates are provided later.

[0193] The blower / sensor module 111 may further comprise a sensor module 1112. With reference to Figure 1 , in some embodiments the sensor module 1112 may be positioned ‘after’ or downstream of the blower 1111 (i.e., an inlet of the sensor module 1112 may be fluidically / pneumatically connected to the outlet of the blower 1111) but may instead be positioned upstream of the blower in other embodiments. The sensor module 1112 may be located prior to humidifier 12.

[0194] One or more sensors (for example, Hall Effect sensors) may be used to measure a motor speed of the blower motor.

[0195] Positioning sensors (e.g., flow rate, pressure, oxygen fraction, and / or other types of sensors in the sensor module 1112) downstream of the blower 1111 can increase accuracy of measurements, such as the measurement of fractional gas concentrations, including oxygen fraction, over systems that position the sensors upstream of the blower and / or a mixer. Positioning these sensors at a location further along the flow pathway, after the flow of gases has been more mixed (and may therefore be more homogeneous), may yield more consistent and / or repeatable measurements.

[0196] In some embodiments of the breathing assistance apparatus 10, a non-return valve (NRV) 112 may be located downstream of the blower 1111 or blower / sensor module 111 but prior to the flow generator outlet 113 and / or the inlet to humidification chamber 120. The NRV112 may be positioned within the flow generator outlet 113. The non-return valve 112 may serve to prevent any backflow of gases, aerosols, and / or liquids into the flow generator 11 via the humidifier 12. During the provision of respiratory therapy, some flows of gases expired by patients may travel down the supply conduit 20, back into the humidifier 12, and potentially reaching the flow generator or displacing other gases that then travel into the humidifier and / or flow generator; these flows of gases may carry pathogens which could contaminate the flow generator. In addition, the flows of gases may transport significant quantities of water vapour (especially if returning via the humidifier 12) which, over time, may damage the internal hardware of the flow generator if backflow is allowed to occur. Hence, a non-return valve may be included in the breathing assistance apparatus.Patient Interface

[0197] The patient interface 30 may be an unsealed (also referred to as ‘non-sealing’) interface such as a nasal cannula. The terms ‘unsealed’ or ‘non-sealing’ as used when referring to patient respiratory interfaces may be defined as a patient interface having elements that do not completely seal a respiratory passage of the user from the outside environment. For example, in the context of a nasal cannula prong, a non-sealing nasal cannula prong may ideally occlude 80% or less of a user’s naris. Conversely, a sealing patient respiratory interface may be a full or under-nose face mask, or nasal masks and nasal pillows, where the nares of a patient are completely sealed off from the outside environment, in contrast to non-sealing nasal prongs which allow for some movement of gases between the outside environment and the nasal passageways. Non-sealing patient interfaces may help to prevent barotrauma effects (e.g., tissue damage to the airways and / or lungs due to differences in pressure relative to standard atmospheric pressure).

[0198] The patient respiratory interface 30 may instead be a tracheostomy interface or any other suitable type of patient interface, depending on the type of therapy being provided and / or the patient’s needs.

[0199] A humidifier 12 can be provided between the flow generator 11 and the apparatus outlet 13 and / or supply conduit 20 to humidify the flow of gases being output by the flow generator 11 . Humidification is particularly useful when providing high flow therapy (where high flow rates of otherwise dry gases are delivered to the patient’s airways) as it improves the tolerability and comfortability of the therapy. Increasing the humidity of the gases to or closer to the natural levels in a healthy patient’s airways (e.g., 37 °C dew point) may help to maintain the condition of the airways, reducing or preventing drying-out or other effects which may cause discomfort and adverse health outcomes. In some configurations the humidifier 12 may be optional, in which case the breathing assistance apparatus 10 may provide nonhumidified gases from the flow generator 11 to the patient.

[0200] The humidifier 12 may be a heated humidifier, wherein the humidifier comprises at least one heating element. The humidifier 12 may be a heated pass-over humidifier. A heated pass-over humidifier typically comprises at least a heater plate 121 , a heating element 122 arranged and configured to heat the heater plate 121 , and a removable humidificationchamber 120 comprising a heat-conductive base that is in close contact with the heater plate 121 when in use. The humidification chamber 120 will be at least partially filled with water when in use; the heat-conductive base will transfer heat from the heater plate to the water, thereby causing controlled evaporation of the water to increase the humidity of a gases flow travelling through the chamber.Sensors

[0201] Various sensors configured to detect or measure properties or parameters of the respiratory therapy system 1 and / or the flow of gases may be disposed at one or more locations throughout the system.

[0202] In an exemplary embodiment of the respiratory therapy system 1 , at least the following sensors may be provided:• Sensor 1 107 at the ambient air inlet 1101 (e.g., a pressure, flow, temperature, and / or humidity (relative and / or absolute) sensor);• Sensor 1 108 at or optionally downstream of the high-pressure gas inlet 1103 (e.g., a pressure and / or a flow sensor);• Sensor 1 109 downstream of the proportional valve 1105 (e.g., a pressure and / or a flow sensor);• Sensor 1 113 at the blower 1 111 , optionally proximal to the stator windings of the motor driving the blower (e.g., a temperature and / or a motor speed sensor);• Sensor 123 at the heating element 122, or proximal to the heater plate 121 (e.g., a temperature sensor);• Sensor 130 downstream of the apparatus outlet 13 (e.g., a temperature sensor);• Sensor 21 at a patient end of the supply conduit 20 (e.g., a temperature sensor);

[0203] Sensors 1107, 1108, 1109, 11 13, 123, 130, and / or 21 may comprise multiple sensors. The multiple sensors may be part of a single package or separate, discrete sensors, or a combination of integrated sensor modules and discrete components.

[0204] Additional sensors may be provided as part of or within the sensor module 1112. The sensor module 1 112 may be configured and arranged to measure properties of the gases flow travelling from the blower 11 11 through to flow generator outlet 113 and beyond. For example, the sensor module may comprise a sensor or sensors to detect the flow rate, oxygen concentration fraction (e.g., FdC>2 — fraction of delivered oxygen or FiC>2 — fraction of inspired oxygen), pressure, temperature, and / or humidity of the flow of gases.

[0205] In addition to the sensors described above, various other sensors may be provided in and throughout the respiratory therapy system 1 . The sensors may be configured to detect, measure, and / or determine flow rate, pressure, temperature, humidity (e.g., relative and / or absolute humidity), oxygen concentration / fraction, and / or motor speed. Other sensors can be placed throughout the system and / or at, on or near the patient — for example, a pulse oximetry sensor may be attached to the patient and coupled to the controller 14 via a pulse oximeter. Alternatively, or additionally, sensors from which the above parameters can be derived could be used.Controller

[0206] Some or all of the sensors listed above may be electrically and / or communicatively connected to a controller 14, as mentioned above. The connection may be direct or indirect — e.g., via signal conditioning circuits, driver circuits, another controller, and / or other types of circuit. The connection(s) may be wired or wireless.

[0207] The controller 14 may be a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a programmable logic device (such as a CPLD or FPGA), a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or other suitable form of device, and may not necessarily be implemented in a single monolithic integrated circuit (IC) but may include additional discrete electrical and / or electronic components. The controller 14 may comprise a single device or multiple devices and components. For example, the controller 14 may comprise multiple microprocessors or microcontrollers. Overall, it will be appreciated by persons of skill in the art that various types of devices and components may be employed as or in controllers such as controller 14.

[0208] The controller can include programming instructions for detection of input conditions and control of output conditions. The programming instructions can be stored in memory of or associated with the controller 14. The programming instructions can correspond to the methods, processes and functions described herein. The programming instructions can be executed by one or more processors of the controller 14. The programming instructions can be implemented in C, C++, Java, or any other suitable programming languages or combinations thereof. Some or all of the portions of the programming instructions can be implemented in application specific circuitry such as ASICs and FPGAs.

[0209] In some configurations, the outputs from at least some or all of the sensors described above are sent to the controller 14 to assist the control of the respiratory system 1 and its constituent components or modules (e.g., the blower 1111 , heating element 122, supply conduit 20, and other modules). The controller 14 may be coupled to at least one or more of: the proportional valve 1105, blower 1111 , humidifier heating element 122, and / or the heated supply conduit 20. In some configurations, the controller 14 controls at least these and other parts of the respiratory system 1 as described herein. ‘Control’ as referred to herein may involve direct control of components (i.e., by signals output from the controller 14) or control via signal conditioning circuits, d rive rs / d riving circuits (such as MOSFET gate drivers or motor drivers, for example).

[0210] In some examples, the controller can operate the blower 1111 and / or the proportional valve 1105 to provide a flow of gas at a desired flow rate. The controller 14 may also receive user input from a user interface aspect of a display and input / output (I / O) module or peripheral 142. The user input may include a target flow rate, pressure, oxygen fraction (i.e., FdO2 (fraction of delivered oxygen) or FiO2 (fraction of inspired oxygen)), therapy mode (high flow therapy, CPAP, etc.), alarm thresholds, and / or other parameters. The user can be a patient, healthcare professional, or others.

[0211] The controller 14 may output information to a display and I / O peripheral 142. The display and I / O peripheral 142 can display warnings and / or other alerts. The display and I / O peripheral 142 can be configured to display characteristics of sensed gases in real time or otherwise. The controller 14 can also receive user inputs via a user interface aspect of the display and I / O peripheral 142. The user interface can include virtual and / or physical button(s) and / or dial(s). The user interface can comprise a touch-sensitive screen.Wireless Communications

[0212] The breathing assistance apparatus 10 may include one or more communications modules 141 which can enable data communications with one or more external devices or servers over a data or communication link or data network, whether wired, wireless or a combination thereof. In one configuration, for example, the breathing assistance apparatus 10 can include a wireless data transmitter, receiver, and / or transceiver to enable the controller 14 to send and receive data signals in a wireless manner to / from external devices, including sensors (e.g., sensors affixed to a patient), patient monitoring systems, mobile phones or other devices, and / or remote servers. In one example, the one or more communications modules 141 may comprise cellular (e.g., 3G, 4G, and / or 5G), Bluetooth, and / or Wi-Fi modules. The one or more communications modules 141 may comprise a singular module configured to perform communication using cellular, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi technologies and protocols.Control System

[0213] Figure 2 illustrates a block diagram 300 of an example control system 310 (which can be implemented on, by, or at least partially on or by the controller 14 (and any other controllers or circuits described herein) that can detect patient and / or system conditions and control operation of the respiratory therapy system 1 , including any gases source(s). The control system 310 can determine and generate the output control signals 322-326 based on one or more received inputs 311-321 . The inputs 311-321 can correspond to sensor measurements received automatically by the controller 14 and / or user inputs. The control system 310 can receive, including but not limited to, pressure sensor(s) input(s) 311 , temperature sensor(s) input(s) 312, flow rate sensor(s) input(s) 313, motor speed sensor(s) input(s) 31 , gas fraction / concentration sensor(s) input(s) 315, humidity sensor(s) input(s) 316, pulse oximetry sensor(s) input(s) 317 (for example, peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2) and / or heart rate), stored or user parameter(s) input(s) 318, duty cycle or pulse width modulation (PWM) input(s) 319, voltage(s) input(s) 320, current(s) input(s) 3211.Breathing Assistance Apparatus Housing

[0214] With reference to Figures 3-7, the breathing assistance apparatus 10 can include a main housing 16. The housing 16 may house the inlet module 110, blower / sensor module 111 , and the heater plate 121 and heating element 122 of the humidifier 12. The controller 14, communications modules 141 , display and I / O 142, and peripheral ports 143 may also bepositioned within or on the main housing 16. As mentioned above, the humidifier 12 may, in some embodiments, be a separate module with its own housing and therefore not enclosed by the main housing 16 of the breathing assistance apparatus 10.

[0215] The main housing 16 has a main housing upper chassis 161 and a main housing lower chassis 162. The main housing upper chassis 161 has a peripheral side wall 1611. The peripheral wall defines a humidifier or humidification chamber bay dock, compartment, or bay 1612 for receipt of the removable humidification chamber 120. The removable humidification chamber 120 contains a suitable liquid for humidifying gases that can be delivered to a patient, such as water. A floor portion of the humidification chamber dock 1613 (not shown) can have a recess to receive a heater arrangement such as a heater plate 121 or other suitable heating arrangements(s) for heating liquid in the humidification chamber 120 during a humidification process.

[0216] The breathing assistance apparatus 10 comprises an arrangement to enable the blower to deliver air, oxygen (or alternative auxiliary gases), or a suitable mixture thereof to the humidification chamber 120 and thereby to the patient. This arrangement can include an air inlet 1101 in the peripheral side wall 1611 of the lower chassis 162 of the housing 16. Additionally, or alternatively, the air inlet 1101 may be positioned in an underside wall 1615 of the housing 16.

[0217] A filter cartridge can be positioned adjacent the air inlet 1101 internally in the main housing and in communication with the blower 1111 to deliver filtered air and / or oxygen to the blower 1111 via an inlet port in the motor / sensor module 111. The filter cartridge can include a filter 1106 configured to remove particulates (e.g., dust) and / or pathogens (e.g., viruses or bacteria) from the gases flow. The apparatus 10 can include a separate oxygen inlet port 1103 positioned adjacent one side of the housing 16 or at a rear end thereof, the oxygen port 1103 being for receipt of oxygen from an oxygen source such as a tank or source of piped oxygen. The oxygen inlet port 1103 may be in fluid communication with a valve 1105. The valve 1105 can suitably be a solenoid proportional valve that is electronically controllable to adjust the amount of oxygen that is added to the gases flow.

[0218] With reference to Figures 3-5, an apparatus outlet port 13 can include a removably- connected (removable) L-shaped elbow 131. The removable elbow 131 can include a patient outlet port 1311 for coupling to the supply conduit 20 to deliver a flow of gases to a patient interface. The inlet to the removable elbow 131 may extend at least substantially along the longitudinal axis 60 while the outlet of the removable elbow 131 (i.e., the patient outlet port 1311) may extend at least substantially along a vertical axis 62. In other words, the patient outlet port 1311 may extend upwardly from the main housing upper chassis 161 of the breathing assistance apparatus 10 main housing 16.

[0219] The flow generator outlet port 113, gases inlet and gases outlet ports 124, 125 of the humidifier 12 (or the inlet and outlet ports of the manifold 126), apparatus outlet port 13, and patient outlet port 1311 each or all can have soft seals such as O-ring seals or T-seals toprovide a sealed gases passageway between the flow generator 11 , the humidification chamber 120, and the supply conduit 20.

[0220] The main housing upper chassis 161 can comprise a shroud portion 1614 (hereinafter ‘shroud’). With reference to Figures 3-4, the shroud 1614 can protrude outwardly from the main upper housing chassis 161 , such that it may extend at least partially over the flow generator outlet 113 and the inlet to the elbow 131 .

[0221] The main housing upper chassis 161 may further comprise the display and I / O 142 mentioned previously. The display and I / O 142 can include a user interface which may comprise a display screen and input devices such as mechanical buttons or dials, a touch screen (e.g., a touch-sensitive LCD or LED screen), a combination of a touch screen and mechanical buttons or dials, or the like. In one configuration, the user interface of the display and I / O 142 may comprise a separate display and / or touch screen that is not permanently integrated with the breathing assistance apparatus housing 16 but may be communicatively connected to the apparatus in a wired or wireless fashion. The breathing assistance 10 may comprise a docking element for securing the separate display screen to.

[0222] With reference to Figures 3-5, the breathing assistance apparatus 10 may at least comprise a display screen 1420 that may be part of the display and I / O 142 (i.e., it may be aforementioned display screen or touch-sensitive screen). With reference to Figures 3-5, the display screen 1420 can protrude from the housing 16, for example, in an angled fashion. The angle of the display screen relative to a plane defined by the surface of the main housing upper chassis 161 may help to improve visibility and / or usability of the screen for users. For example, an angled display screen may be more easily view from a distance than a completely flat screen provided in the main housing upper chassis 161 .Humidification

[0223] With continued reference to Figure 1 , a supply conduit 20 can be coupled to an apparatus outlet 13 formed in or as part of the housing 16 of the breathing assistance apparatus 10 at one end, and to a patient interface 30, such as a non-sealing interface (for example, a non-sealing nasal cannula) at another end.

[0224] The gases flow generated by the flow generator 11 may be humidified before being delivered to the patient via the supply conduit 20 and the patient respiratory interface 30, as explained previously. The controller 14 can control the flow generator 11 to generate a gases flow of a desired flow rate, and / or one or more valves (such as proportional valve 1105) to control the mixing of air and oxygen and / or other supplemental gases by the blower 1111. The controller 14 can control a heating element 122 in or associated with the humidifier 12, if present, to heat the gases flow to a desired temperature that achieves a desired level of temperature and / or humidity for delivery to the patient. The supply conduit 20 may be a heated conduit, comprising one or more conductors (i.e., heating elements such as heating wires) embedded within the walls of the supply conduit, which may be supplied with electrical current in order to heat the internal passageway(s) of the conduit. Alternatively, the heatingelement(s) may be attached to the interior surface of the supply conduit 20, or even float within the interior of conduit. The power supplied to the heating elements can be controlled by the controller 14.

[0225] The humidifier 12 of the apparatus is configured to increase the humidity of the gases flow by introducing water vapour to gases passing through the humidification chamber 120. Various humidifier configurations may be employed. In one configuration, the humidifier 12 can comprise a removable humidification chamber 120 that is configured to contain one or more liquids. For example, the humidifier 12 may be configured to allow the humidification chamber 120 to be partially or entirely removed or disconnected from the flow path and / or breathing assistance apparatus 10. The humidification chamber may be removed for refilling, cleaning, replacement and / or repair. With reference to at least Figures 3-5, in one configuration, the humidification chamber may be received and retained by or within a dock, compartment, or bay 1612 of the breathing assistance apparatus 10 or may otherwise couple onto or within the housing 16 of the breathing assistance apparatus 10.

[0226] With continued reference to at least Figures 3-5, the humidification chamber 120 of the humidifier 12 comprises at least a gases inlet 124 and a gases outlet 125 to enable connection to the gases flow path of the breathing assistance apparatus 10, optionally via a gases manifold 126 that connects between the flow generator outlet 113 and humidifier gases inlet 121 , and the humidifier gases outlet 124 and apparatus outlet 13. For example, the flow of gases from the outlet 113 of the flow generator 11 is received into the humidification chamber via its gases inlet and exits the chamber via its gases outlet, after being heated and / or humidified.

[0227] The humidification chamber 120 may be configured to contain a volume of liquid, typically water. In operation, the liquid in the humidification chamber is controllably heated by one or more heaters (e.g., heater plate 121) or heating elements (e.g., heating element 122 of the heater plate 121) associated with the humidifier 12 to generate water vapour and thereby increase the humidity of the gases flowing through the chamber 120.

[0228] In one configuration, the humidifier 12 is a heated pass-over humidifier. In another configuration, the humidifier may be a non-heated (i.e., cold) pass-over humidifier. In another configuration, the humidifier may be a non-pass-over humidifier.

[0229] In some configurations, for example as shown in Figure 3 and Figure 10, the humidification chamber 120 may be inserted into the apparatus and on insertion engage with one or more tracks 132. The tracks 132 help to guide the humidification chamber 120 into the apparatus 10, and also help guide the humidification chamber 120 when removed from the apparatus 10. In some examples, the tracks are configured to engage with the base 801 of the humidification chamber 120.High Flow Therapy

[0230] The breathing assistance apparatus 10 may be a high flow therapy apparatus. High flow therapy as discussed herein is intended to be given its typical ordinary meaning, asunderstood by a person of skill in the art, which generally refers to a respiratory system delivering a targeted flow of humidified respiratory gases via an intentionally unsealed or nonsealing patient interface with flow rates generally intended to meet or exceed the inspiratory demand of a user. High flow therapy is typically provided at desired flow rates high enough to meet or exceed a patient’s inspiratory demand. The flow rate provided is ideally sufficient such that ambient gases are not entrained as the patient inspires. Typical patient interfaces used for high flow therapy include, but are not limited to, a non-sealing nasal cannula or a tracheal patient interface. Typical flow rates for adults often range from, but are not limited to, about fifteen litres per minute to about sixty litres per minute or greater. Typical flow rates for paediatric users (such as neonates, infants and children) often range from, but are not limited to, about one litre per minute per kilogram of user weight to about three litres per minute per kilogram of user weight or greater.

[0231] High flow therapy can also optionally involve delivery of gas mixture compositions including supplemental oxygen and / or administration of therapeutic medicaments.

[0232] High flow therapy is often referred to as nasal high flow (NHF), humidified high flow nasal cannula (HHFNC), high flow nasal oxygen (HFNO), high flow therapy (HFT), or tracheal high flow (THF), among other common names. For example, in some configurations, for an adult patient ‘high flow therapy’ may refer to the delivery of gases to a patient at a flow rate of greater than or equal to about 10 litres per minute (10 L / min), such as between about 10 L / min and about 100 L / min, or between about 15 L / min and about 95 L / min, or between about 20 L / min and about 90 L / min, or between about 25 L / min and about 85 L / min, or between about 30 L / min and about 80 L / min, or between about 35 L / min and about 75 L / min, or between about 40 L / min and about 70 L / min, or between about 45 L / min and about 65 L / min, or between about 50 L / min and about 60 L / min.

[0233] In some configurations, for a neonatal, infant, or child patient ‘high flow therapy’ may refer to the delivery of gases to a patient at a flow rate of greater than 1 L / min, such as between about 1 L / min and about 25 L / min, or between about 2 L / min and about 25 L / min, or between about 2 L / min and about 5 L / min, or between about 5 L / min and about 25 L / min, or between about 5 L / min and about 10 L / min, or between about 10 L / min and about 25 L / min, or between about 10 L / min and about 20 L / min, or between about 10 L / min and 15 L / min, or between about 20 L / min and 25 L / min. A high flow therapy apparatus with an adult patient, a neonatal, infant, or child patient, may deliver gases to the patient at a flow rate of between about 1 L / min and about 100 L / min, or at a flow rate in any of the sub-ranges outlined above.

[0234] High flow therapy can be effective in meeting or exceeding the patient's inspiratory demand, increasing oxygenation of the patient and / or reducing their work of breathing. Additionally, high flow therapy may generate a flushing effect in the nasopharynx such that the anatomical dead space of the upper airways is flushed by the high incoming gases flow. The flushing effect can create a reservoir of fresh gas available of each and every breath, while minimizing re-breathing of carbon dioxide, nitrogen, etc. High flow therapy can alsoincrease expiratory time of the patient due to pressure provided during expiration. This in turn reduces the respiratory rate of the patient.NIV Therapy

[0235] The breathing assistance apparatus 10 may additionally or alternatively be a Non- invasive ventilation (NIV) therapy apparatus. The NIV therapies may comprise one or more of: Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP), Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure, Bubble Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP). The NIV therapy apparatus may be configured to provide two positive pressure levels, which are provided in synchronisation with breathing, i.e., increased pressure during inspiration to provide respiratory support (IPAP), and decreased pressure during expiration to reduce the resistance the patient experiences (EPAP). In some examples, the NIV therapies may include Nasal Intermittent Positive Pressure Ventilation (NIPPV), synchronous Nasal Intermittent Positive Pressure Ventilation (SNIPPV), Non-lnvasive Ventilation Neurally Adjusted Ventilatory Assist (NIV-NAVA) therapy, High Frequency Oscillatory Ventilation (HFOV) therapy, volume-limited pressure control therapy, volume control ventilation therapy, and / or resuscitation therapy.Humidifier

[0236] Figure 8 schematically illustrates an example respiratory system 1 , including a breathing assistance apparatus 10.

[0237] The breathing assistance apparatus comprises a flow generator 11 (such as a ventilator or blower) and a humidifier 12. In other examples, the breathing assistance apparatus comprises only the humidifier 12, or only the flow generator 11 . The breathing assistance apparatus (for example as part of a respiratory system) may be configured to provide a form of respiratory therapy, such as, for example, high flow therapy, or a continuous, variable, or bi-level positive airway pressure (PAP), or another form of respiratory therapy, as will be appreciated.

[0238] The flow generator 11 may connect to a gases source to receive a flow of gases, or alternatively may draw in a flow of gases from the ambient environment. The flow of gases then passes from the flow generator 11 through a conduit 157 to the humidifier 12, which humidifies the gases. The flow generator 11 may be, for example, a ventilator or a blower. The flow generator 11 may be separated from the humidifier 12 (for example be in separate housings which may optionally be coupled together) or integrated with the humidifier 12 in a single housing.

[0239] The humidifier 12 connects to an end 109 of a supply conduit 20 (for example an inspiratory conduit) via a port 111. The supply conduit 20 is connected to a patient 101 through a patient interface 30, optionally using a wye-piece 114. An optional expiratory conduit, such as expiratory conduit 117, also connects to the patient interface 30 through the wye-piece 114. The expiratory conduit 117 may be configured to move exhaled gases away from the patient 101 . As illustrated in Figure 8, expiratory conduit 117 returns exhaled gasesfrom the patient 101 to the flow generator 11 . In another example, the supply conduit 20 connects directly to the patient interface 30 without a wye-piece 114. In such an implementation, exhaled gases are allowed to flow directly to the ambient environment, without requiring an expiratory conduit.

[0240] Supply conduit 20 can include electrically conductive elements such as heater and / or sensor elements 145. Similarly, expiratory conduit 117 can optionally include heater and / or sensor elements 147.

[0241] Further, the wye-piece 114 and patient interface 30 can also optionally include heater and / or sensor elements. As will be explained in further detail below, the heater and / or sensor elements 145, 147 can be wires.

[0242] As shown in the example respiratory system of Figure 8, dry or relatively dry gases enter the flow generator 11 through a vent 119 (for example ambient air inlet 1101 as described above). A blower 1111 may generate gas flow into the flow generator 105 by drawing air or other gases through the vent 119. The blower 1111 may be, for instance, a variable speed fan, where an electronic controller 136 controls the fan speed. The electronic controller 136 may also be controlled by a second electronic controller 127, or vice versa, in some implementations.

[0243] The humidifier 12 can include a humidification chamber 120 containing a volume of water 134 or other suitable humidifying liquid. The humidification chamber 120 can be removable from the humidifier 12. The humidification chamber 120 may include a highly heat-conductive base (for example, an aluminium or steel base) contacting or associated with a heater plate 121 on the humidifier 12. The examples in the present disclosure describe a heater plate as a heater of the humidifier and a heater wire as a heater of the conduit.

[0244] The humidifier 12 may also include electronic controls. In Figure 8, for example, the humidifier 12 includes an electronic, analogue, or digital controller 127. The controller 127 may be a microprocessor-based controller executing computer software commands stored in associated memory. In response to humidity, temperature or other feedback values provided via a user interface 133 and / or integrated sensors, the controller 127 may determine heat, flow, pressure and / or other variables used to provide humidified gases to a patient (also referred to as a user) according to target operating parameters. User interface 133 can be one or more hardware buttons and / or a display or touch screen display. The breathing assistance apparatus e.g. humidifier 12 can provide audio and / or visual feedback to the user.

[0245] Bi-directional arrow 128 shows a communication connection between flow generator 11 and humidifier 12. The communication connection 128 may allow for the transmission of information between the humidifier 12 and the flow generator 11 . Additionally, or alternatively, the communication connection 128 provided may allow for the transmission of one or more control signals. For example, the communication connection 128 provided may be provided between the controller 127 of the humidifier and the controller 136 of the flow generator. In some examples, this communication connection may be bi-directional, however in other examples it may be a one-way (either from the flow generator to the humidifier, or from thehumidifier to the flow generator). The communication connection may be a wired or wireless connection.

[0246] The patient interface 30 may be the patient interface as described in more detail above.

[0247] A temperature sensor 135 may be incorporated in or connected to inspiratory conduit 103 near the wye-piece 114, or directly to the wye-piece 114 or the patient interface 30. The temperature sensor 135 monitors the temperature of the flow of gases near or at the patient interface 30. The temperature sensor may be a colorimetric sensor as described in more detail below.

[0248] A heating wire may be used to adjust the temperature of the patient interface 30, the wye-piece 114, and / or the supply conduit 20 to maintain the temperature of the flow of gases above the saturation temperature (that is the dew point temperature of the flow of gases), thereby reducing the opportunity for unwanted condensation, and / or to deliver the gases at a temperature which is well suited to the gases being provided to the patient. As shown in Figure 8, exhaled gases are optionally returned from the patient interface 30 to the flow generator 11 via the expiratory conduit 117.

[0249] The respiratory system 1 of Figure 8 can also provide supplemental oxygen (O2) or gas comprising an O2 fraction above that of atmospheric air to the patient through port 149 (for example low-pressure gas inlet 1 102, and / or high-pressure gas inlet 1103). The respiratory system 1 of Figure 8 can receive oxygen from a remote source and / or by blending atmospheric air with incoming oxygen from the remote source. The blending of atmospheric air and incoming oxygen can occur via a Venturi element or a similar inlet structure located in flow generator 1 1 or humidifier 12.

[0250] Figures 9 and 10 illustrate an example respiratory humidifier as a breathing assistance apparatus. As will be appreciated, the humidifier of Figures 9 and 10 are similar to the humidifier 12 of the system illustrated in Figure 8.

[0251] The illustrated humidifier in Figures 9 and 10 comprises a heater base 151 with a heater plate 121 , a user interface 154 and a controller 127; a removable and replaceable humidification chamber 129; and a removable and / or replaceable cartridge 155. As shown in Figures 9 and 10, the supply conduit 20 can connect to the cartridge 155 via connector 161 . The humidification chamber 129 is received by the heater base 151 , and when received in the heater base 151 the humidification chamber 129 is in thermal contact with the heater plate 121. In some examples, the cartridge 155 may also be integral with or permanently connected to the heater base, rather than removeable and replaceable.

[0252] The cartridge 155 houses electronics and one or more sensors 158 which are configured to detect one or more properties of gases flowing through the humidification chamber 153 in use. The sensors may be provided on probes protruding from the cartridge 155 and through an aperture in the inlet or outlet of the humidification chamber 153, in use. The cartridge 155 also comprises a connector which forms an electrical connection with the heater base 151 for data communication (for example, serial data communication) with the controller.

[0253] In use, the outlet of a conduit 157 receives a flow of gases from a gases source that is pneumatically coupled with the inlet of the humidification chamber 129, and a supply conduit 20 comprising a connector 161 is electrically coupled with the cartridge 155 and pneumatically coupled with the outlet of the humidification chamber 153 to transport the humidified flow of gases towards the patient. The connector 161 forms a releasable and lockable connection with the humidification chamber 129 and / or cartridge 155, and may comprise release buttons 163.

[0254] The electrical coupling between the cartridge and the conduit 20 may allow for sensing signals to be communicated between a sensor of the conduit and the apparatus, and / or for connection between the apparatus and heaters of the conduit 20.Surgical system

[0255] Referring to Figure 11 , an example of a surgical system 600 is shown. The surgical system 600 may be configured to supply an insufflation gas to a body cavity of a patient, e.g., for laparoscopic or open surgery procedures.

[0256] The surgical system 600 may comprise one or more components. The one or more components may be part of a conduit system. The one or more components may be for example any combination of: one or more conduits 602, 606, 616, 622, insufflation gas filters (for example discharge filter 618), or a patient interface 608.

[0257] In some examples, the insufflation gas may be carbon dioxide. In some examples, the insufflation gas may be air. In some examples, the insufflation gas may be a mixture of gases. In some examples, a medicament may be added to the insufflation gas.

[0258] The insufflation gas may be pressurized to a pressure above atmospheric pressure. The insufflation gas may create a working space within the body of the patient, e.g., the abdominal or peritoneal cavity, for a surgeon or surgical team to carry out a surgical procedure. The surgical procedure may involve cauterization creating surgical smoke in the working space.

[0259] The surgical system 600 may include one or more of a gases source 502, an insufflator supply conduit 602, an insufflator 604, an insufflation gas filter (not shown), a humidifier supply conduit 504, a surgical apparatus (in this example a humidifier 506), a delivery conduit 606, a patient interface 608 and a smoke evacuation system 610. In other examples, the surgical system may include a recirculation system (not shown), e.g., in place of the smoke evacuation system 610.

[0260] In some examples, the surgical apparatus comprises insufflator 604 and humidifier 506. In other examples, the surgical apparatus comprises only the humidifier 506, or only the insufflator 604.

[0261] The gases source 502 may be a wall source 612 or a compressed gas cylinder 614, for example. In other examples, the insufflator may be configured to pressurize ambient air.

[0262] The patient interface 608 may be a surgical cannula or other surgical access device.

[0263] One or more insufflation gas filters may be provided between the insufflator 604 and the patient interface 608. An insufflation gas filter may be provided between the insufflator 604and the humidifier 506, e.g., between an outlet of the insufflator 604 and an inlet end of the humidifier supply conduit. An insufflation gas filter may alternatively, or additionally, be provided between the humidifier 106 and the patient interface 608, e.g., between an outlet of the humidifier 106 and an inlet end of the delivery conduit 606.

[0264] An adapter (not shown) may be provided at the outlet of the insufflator 604, e.g., between the insufflator 604 and the insufflation gas filter or humidifier supply conduit 504.

[0265] In other examples, e.g., a surgical insufflation system configured for open surgery, the insufflation gas filter or humidifier supply conduit 504 may be connected directly to a carbon dioxide gas supply stand gas outlet port. The patient interface 608 may be a surgical diffuser or other surgical access device.

[0266] The surgical apparatus 506 may be a humidifier. The surgical apparatus 506 may include one or more of a humidification chamber, a chamber heater, a humidifier controller and a user interface as described above with respect to the example respiratory system 1 .

[0267] The delivery conduit 606 may otherwise be similar to the supply conduit 20 of the respiratory system 1 . For example, the delivery conduit 606 may have a heater, e.g., heater wire 534. In some examples, the delivery conduit 606 may be corrugated. In other examples, the delivery conduit may be formed by at least one member which is spirally-wound about a lumen of the delivery conduit.

[0268] The smoke evacuation system 610 may include a discharge conduit 616 and a discharge filter 618.

[0269] The smoke evacuation system 610 may be configured to be coupled with a vacuum source 620, e.g., a wall source. In some examples, the smoke evacuation system 610 may include a further discharge conduit 622. The further discharge conduit 622 may be configured to be coupled between the discharge filter 618 and the vacuum source 620. In some examples, the further discharge conduit 622 may have generally the same construction as the discharge conduit 616. In some examples, the further discharge conduit 622 may have the same length as the discharge conduit 616. In other examples, the further discharge conduit 622 may have a different construction to the discharge conduit 616. In some examples, the further discharge conduit 622 may differ from the discharge conduit 616 in one or more of length, diameter, and materials.

[0270] In the illustrated example surgical system 600, the humidifier supply conduit 504, humidification chamber 120, delivery conduit 606, discharge conduit 616, discharge filter 618 and further discharge conduit 622 form an insufflation circuit. More specifically, this particular configuration forms a dual-limb insufflation circuit 624. The humidifier supply conduit 504, humidification chamber 120 and delivery conduit 606 may be said to form an inlet branch of the dual-limb insufflation circuit 624. The smoke evacuation system 610 (e.g., discharge conduit 616, discharge filter 618 and further discharge conduit 622) may be said to form an outlet branch of the dual-limb insufflation circuit 624.

[0271] Also shown in Figure 11 are a scope 626 and a laparoscopic monitor 628.

[0272] In use, insufflation gas is supplied by the gases source 502, through the insufflator supply conduit 602, to the insufflator 604. The insufflator 604 may control the pressure of the insufflation gas. The insufflator 604 supplies the insufflation gas, through the humidifier supply conduit 504, to an inlet of the surgical apparatus 506. The insufflation gas is heated and humidified by the surgical apparatus 506. The heated and humidified insufflation gas is then supplied, through the delivery conduit 606, to the patient interface 608 and then into the patient's body cavity.

[0273] In some examples, the insufflator 604 pressure may be set between about 5 mmHg and 20 mmHg, depending on the size of the patient and the amount of inflation required. The flow rate of the insufflator 604 may be set to between about 1 L / min and 12 L / min, depending on the requirements of the specific operation.

[0274] The insufflation gas and surgical smoke, if any, may flow from the patient's body cavity into the patient interface 608 and through the discharge conduit 616 to the discharge filter 618. In some examples, the insufflation gas and surgical smoke, if any, may flow from the patient's body cavity into a dedicated venting cannula (not shown) and through the discharge conduit 616 to the discharge filter 618. That is, the patient interface 608 is not necessarily connected to the discharge conduit 616.

[0275] The discharge filter 618 may include a filter medium. The filter medium may trap contaminant material in the insufflation gas or the surgical smoke. The contaminant material may include one or more of particulate matter, odours, and gaseous hydrocarbons. In some examples, the filtered gas downstream from the discharge filter 618 may be almost 100% carbon dioxide. In some examples, the discharge filter removes 99.999% of all particles, cells and viruses. In some examples, the discharge filter may have retention up to 0.02 microns. The filtered gas may be vented to ambient air. It may be vented remotely from the patient and surgical team.

[0276] In some examples, the surgical apparatus 506 may be configured to humidify the insufflation gases to, or near, saturation, i.e., 100% relative humidity. As the patient's body cavity is already moist and humid, the insufflation gas may not lose much, if any, moisture in the body, and can become fully saturated if it is not already at saturation point.

[0277] In other examples, a surgical insufflation system may omit the humidifier 506, and may supply relatively dry insufflation gas to the patient, e.g., at a relative humidity of below about 90%, below about 80%, or below about 70%. The relatively dry insufflation gas may be humidified as it passes through the patient's body cavity, picking up moisture from the relatively warm and humid environment in the body cavity above the internal organs.

[0278] In some examples, the smoke evacuation system 610 does not have one or more of a heater wire and a water trap. But in some examples, one or more of the discharge conduit 616 and the further discharge conduit 622 may have a heater wire.Humidification Chamber

[0279] Figures 12-16 show an example humidification chamber 120. The humidification chamber 120 comprises a chamber body 800 and a base 801 which together define a humidification chamber interior. The base 801 is heat-conductive so as to transfer heat from a heater (for example from heater plate heated by a heating element 122) to the humidification fluid (for example water) in the chamber interior.

[0280] The base 801 of the humidification chamber 120 may be permanently connected to the chamber body 800, for example by folding the base 801 (for example an edge or lip of the base 801) around a lower rim of the chamber body. In some examples, a seal is provided between the base 801 and the chamber body 800. In other embodiments, the base 801 may be connectable and disconnectable to / from the chamber body 800. In these examples as well, a seal may be provided between the base 801 and chamber body 800.

[0281] The humidification chamber 120 also comprises a filter chamber 806 defined by a filter cover 805 and the chamber body 800. The filter chamber 806 may further comprise a filter chamber floor 840. In some examples, the filter chamber 806 may open directly into the chamber body 800 (for example, there is no filter chamber floor 840).

[0282] As shown in Figures 12-16, the chamber body 800 comprises one or more side walls 816. The side walls 816 extend upwardly in a direction from the base to an upper surface 810 of the chamber body 800. The upper surface 810 of the chamber body may include the floor of the filter chamber 840. In the example of Figures 12-16, the side wall(s) form a generally cylindrical chamber body 800, however in other embodiments, the chamber body may have a different shape. For example, in some embodiments, the chamber may have a conical shape comprising angled side walls. The chamber body 800 may for example be formed of one continuous side wall or multiple side walls.

[0283] In the example as shown in Figures 12-16, the filter chamber 806 is defined by the upper surface 810 of the chamber body 800 and a filter cover 805. The upper surface 810 of the chamber body 800 comprises an opening 811 . The opening 811 defines a passageway between the chamber interior and the filter chamber 806. The passageway allows for gases to flow from the filter chamber 806 into the chamber interior. In other examples, the filter chamber may be defined entirely by a filter enclosure, rather than being defined by at least a portion of the chamber body 800. As shown in Figures 12-16, the filter chamber 806 may not cover the entire upper surface 810 of the chamber body 800. In this example, part of the upper surface 810 is external to the filter chamber. In other examples, the entire upper surface 810 may form the floor 840 of the filter chamber 806.

[0284] In an embodiment, the filter chamber 806 may be at least partially recessed into the upper surface 810 of the chamber body 800.

[0285] The filter chamber 806 comprises a filter — for example as shown in Figures 15, 18, 19, and 20. The filter comprises a filter media 807 adapted to filter the gases flows which pass through the filter media.

[0286] In other examples, the filter 807 may comprise filter media 807 with a filter frame as shown in Figures 20, 21 , 23 and 24.

[0287] The filter media 807 filters the gases as they pass through the filter media 807, for example from the humidification chamber gases inlet passage 802 to the chamber interior. The filter media 807 may also act to prevent contaminants from the outlet side of the filter media 807 from passing upstream of the filter media 807. For example, where the humidification chamber 120 is connected to a flow generator 11 via the humidification chamber gases inlet passage 802, the filter media 807 may help to prevent contaminants from entering the flow generator 11 .

[0288] The filter cover 805 comprises a humidification chamber gases inlet passage 802 while the chamber body 800 comprises a humidification chamber gases outlet 803.

[0289] When in use with a breathing assistance apparatus, gases enter the humidification chamber 120 via the humidification chamber gases inlet passage 802, and after passing through the filter media 807 of the filter, enter the humidification chamber interior, where the gases are humidified. The humidified gases flow then exits via the humidification chamber gases outlet 803.

[0290] Figure 14 shows a side view of the humidifier chamber 120 in a front-facing orientation. A horizontal and vertical plane are shown, with the vertical plane having directions up and down labelled. Throughout the specification the terms upward and downward are used and should be interpreted relative to the directions as shown in Figure 14. The terms horizontal and vertical, and above and below should also be interpreted in relation to the planes shown in this orientation. Downward may be in a direction towards the base 801 of the humidification chamber 120, and upwards may be in a direction away from the base 801 of the humidification chamber 120.

[0291] In the example as shown in Figures 12-15, the humidification chamber inlet passage 802 is formed as part of the filter cover 805. The humidification chamber inlet passage 802 extends in a horizontal direction from an entry opening 809, before extending downwards (for example downwards towards the base 801 and / or towards the filter media 807 of the filter). In other examples, the humidification chamber inlet passage 802 extends vertically from the entry opening 809 towards the base 801 and / or filter media 807 (i.e., such that the entry opening 809 faces upward) and does not initially extend horizontally.

[0292] The humidification chamber inlet passage 802 provides a flow path to the filter chamber 806 from the entry opening 809. The apparatus 10 may be connected with the humidification chamber inlet passage 802 so as to provide gases to the humidification chamber 120. For example, the flow generator outlet 113 of the flow generator 11 may be connected to the humidification chamber inlet passage 802. In other examples, the flow generator 11 may be connected to the humidification chamber inlet passage 802 via a conduit, for example conduit 157.

[0293] In the example shown in Figures 12-16 and 23-24, the humidification chamber gases outlet 803 extends in an upward direction from the upper surface 810 of the chamber body 800. The humidification chamber gases outlet 803 comprises an exit opening 808. As shown in Figures 12-16 and 23-24, the exit opening 808 faces upwards. In other examples, thehumidification chamber gases outlet 803 may extend in a direction upward and then horizontal. In these examples, the humidification chamber gases outlet 803 extends horizontally to the horizontal exit opening 808.

[0294] The humidification chamber 120 may also comprise one or more baffles 815. The baffles 815 may help to direct flows of gases as they pass through the humidification chamber 120. In the example as shown in Figures 12-16 and 23-24, and specifically as shown in Figures 16 and 23, a baffle 815 is provided in the chamber interior adjacent the opening 811 of the chamber body 800. The baffle 815 may help to direct flow entering the chamber interior from the filter chamber 806 towards the perimeter of the chamber interior. In other examples, a plurality of baffles are provided in the chamber interior. The baffle 815 may also help to prevent backflow of gases flows, water from the chamber, and / or other substances such as nebulised particles from the chamber interior towards the filter chamber 806.

[0295] The baffle 815 may comprise a first portion which extends downward from a bottom of the filter chamber floor 840 of the chamber body 800, and a second portion which extends substantially laterally. The second portion may extend to cover a portion of the opening 811 when viewed from above.

[0296] In some examples, the filter cover 805 may comprise one or more guide features positioned on the top surface of the filter cover. The one or more guide features may interact with one or more corresponding features on the apparatus 10 when the humidification chamber 120 is engaged with the apparatus to help guide the humidification chamber 120 when it is engaged or removed from the apparatus 10. For example, if the humidification chamber 120 engages with one or more tracks as described above, the one or more guide features of the filter cover 805 may be a projection or track configured to engage with a corresponding track or projection of the apparatus 10. The guide features may also help to prevent rotation and / or lateral movement of the humidification chamber 120 relative to the apparatus 10, when it is engaged with the apparatus and / or may help to retain the humidification chamber 120 when it is engaged with the apparatus.

[0297] In some examples, the humidification chamber gases outlet 803 may comprise one or more guide features configured to interact with one or more corresponding features on the apparatus when the humidification chamber 120 is engaged with the apparatus. In some examples, the one or more guide features of the humidification chamber gases outlet 803 may be a protrusion or multiple protrusions configured to engage with a recess in the apparatus 10.

[0298] The chamber body 800 and / or the filter cover 805 may be formed from polycarbonate and / or polysulfone and / or ABS (Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene). In other examples, the chamber body 800 and / or the filter cover 805 may be formed from another rigid material (for example another plastic and / or polymer).

[0299] As discussed above, the humidification chamber 120 comprises a filter chamber 806. In the example shown in Figures 12-15, the filter chamber 806 is defined by an upper surface 810 of the chamber body 800 and a lower surface 832 of the filter cover 805.

[0300] As shown in Figure 16, a filter chamber floor 840 is defined by the upper surface 810 of the chamber body 800. At least one filter chamber side wall 841 is also defined by the upper surface 810 of the chamber body 800.

[0301] As described above, it will be appreciated that only part of the upper surface 810 may define the filter chamber floor 840 and / or at least one filter chamber side wall 841 . For example, the upper surface 810 may extend beyond the filter chamber floor 840 and / or at least one filter chamber side wall 841 .

[0302] The filter chamber floor 840 may slope downwardly (for example, towards the base) in a direction towards the opening 811 of the upper surface 810 of the chamber body 800 in some embodiments. Having the filter chamber floor 840 slope downwardly towards the opening 811 allows for any liquid that is present in the filter chamber 806 to drain back through the opening 811 and into the chamber interior. In other examples, the filter chamber floor 840 may be substantially flat.

[0303] As shown, for example in Figure 15, the filter chamber floor 840 is located below the filter media 807 in the filter chamber 806.

[0304] Referring now to Figure 17, the filter cover 805 defines a filter chamber roof 835. The filter chamber roof 835 is located above the upper surface 810 of the chamber body 800 when the filter cover 805 is connected to or attached to the chamber body 800.

[0305] In some examples, the filter cover 805 tapers towards the humidification chamber gases inlet passage 802.

[0306] In examples, the filter cover 805 may comprise one or more steps 871 where each step 871 decreases an area defined by the perimeter of the filter cover in an upward direction. The steps may be present on the lower surface and the upper surface of the filter cover 805 as shown in Figures 15 and 17. In some examples, the step(s) may be present on one of the lower surface 832 or the upper surface 810 of the filter cover 805, and the other of the lower surface or the upper surface of the filter cover 805 may be a surface without steps. In some examples, steps may not be present on either of the lower surface 832 and the upper surface 810 of the filter cover 805. In such examples, the lower surface and / or the upper surface of the filter cover 805 may be straight, linear surface(s) that taper upwardly and inwardly, or may be concave or convex curved surface(s).

[0307] In some examples, at least one filter chamber side wall 841 (or part of at least one filter chamber side wall 841) is defined by the filter cover. In some examples, the upper surface 810 may not have a recessed portion comprising the floor 840 of the filter chamber, for example.

[0308] As illustrated in Figures 15 and 16, the humidification chamber 120 may have one or more support elements 817. The one or more support elements 817 may help to support the filter media 807. The one or more support elements 817 may be configured to support the filter media to prevent deformation of the filter media 807. Deformation of the filter media 807 may be caused by sagging and / or stretching of the filter media 807. The support elements 817 may help to prevent the filter media 807 from dislodging from one or more rims(described in more detail below). In such examples, at least a portion of the periphery of the filter media may sit between the one or more rims, which may retain the filter media 807.

[0309] The one or more support elements 817 may be particularly beneficial in helping to support the filter media 807 if or when it gets wet, in which scenario it may tend to sag due to the increased weight. Additionally, the one or more support elements 817 may help to support the filter media 807 when forces are applied to the filter media 807, for example from changes in pressure and / or the flow of gases across the filter media 807. These forces may be caused by a substantially unidirectional flow (i.e., during CPAP or NHF) which may result in pressure against the filter media. In bi-level PAP, these forces may be cyclical, and the cyclical application of forces overtime may cause the filter media 807 to be dislodged (for example from retention between the filter cover 805 and chamber body 800). The one or more support elements 817 may help to retain the filter media 807 and / or prevent deformation of the filter media 807 by supporting the filter media 807 when the cyclical forces are applied.

[0310] The one or more support elements 817 extend upwards from the filter chamber floor 840 to a lower surface of the filter media 807 and / or towards the filter cover 805. The one or more support elements 817 may extend to come into contact with the lower surface of the filter media 807 or to be slightly below the lower surface of the filter media 807, so that they support the filter media 807 if the filter media 807 deforms. Alternatively, the one or more support elements 817 may extend slightly further vertically so as to upwardly bias the filter.

[0311] The one or more support elements 817 may be arranged in a pattern. For example, in a grid, or a radial array. The example shown in Figures 15 and 16 has six support elements in one exemplary a radial array, but other arrangements are possible. In some examples, the one or more support elements 817 are arranged in one or more columns and / or rows.

[0312] As shown in Figures 15 and 16, the one or more support elements 817 may comprise one or more walls. The walls extend in a direction away from the opening 811 (and optionally away from a centre of the opening). Having the walls extend in a direction away from the opening 811 may allow the walls to guide gases passing through the filter media 807 towards the opening 811 . This may decrease resistance to flow through the filter chamber 806. The walls are arranged in a radial pattern about the opening 811 .

[0313] In some examples, and additionally or alternatively to the support elements as describe above, the one or more support elements may extend downwardly from the filter chamber roof 835 towards an upper surface of the filter media 807.

[0314] The filter chamber 806 may be said to comprise a filtered side between the filter media 807 and the humidification chamber gases inlet passage 802. The filtered side can contain gases which are from the flow generator and / or gases from the patient side which have passed through the filter media 807 and are therefore filtered.

[0315] The filter chamber 806 may comprise an unfiltered side between the filter media 807 and the opening 811 in the upper surface 810 of the chamber body 800. The unfiltered side is on the patient or unfiltered side of the filter media 807.

[0316] The filtered side of the filter chamber 806 is sealed from the unfiltered side of the filter chamber 806, such that any flow of gases from the filtered side to the unfiltered side is across the filter media 807. The seal may be both gas- and water-tight to prevent leakage of unfiltered fluids around the filter media 807, to the filtered side.

[0317] It may be easier to seal the filtered side and unfiltered sides of the filter chamber by the filter media 807 in the arrangement of the filter chamber 806 where the filter media 807 is oriented so as to be parallel to the upper surface 810 of the chamber body 800 and / or the base 801 and / or at least partially, or substantially horizontal. For example, if the filter media 807 were to be oriented vertically, the filter chamber would have to extend through the chamber interior towards the humidifying fluid, i.e., towards the humidification chamber base. This may decrease the available area and volume of the chamber interior for gases. Orientating the filter media at an angle (from the vertical axis) or even substantially vertically may present difficulties in terms of forming a tight seal with the chamber walls owing to their geometry (which in the example chamber shown in figure 12 and others, is curved). This is because the filter media (or a filter frame it might be retained with) may have to form a seal against an angled or uneven wall surface. Similarly, if the chamber were cylindrical, as it is in the example chamber shown in figure 12 and others, then the wall surface would be angled and curved, also presenting challenges for effective sealing of the flow path.

[0318] Further, having the filter being parallel to the upper surface 810 ofthe chamber body 800 and / or the base 801 and / or at least partially, or substantially, horizontal may aid in ensuring a seal is formed between the filtered and unfiltered sides of the filter chamber. A perimeter of the filter media may be held between the upper surface 810 of the chamber body 800 and a lower surface of the filter cover 805 as described in more detail below and having the filter media oriented as described above may allow for more effective sealing around the perimeter of the filter media.

[0319] As, if, for example, the filter cover 805 is welded to the chamber body 800 then the compression of the filter media 807 by the weld will be perpendicular to the filter media 807.

[0320] As described above, the filter chamber 806 comprises a filter which comprises a filter media 807.

[0321] As shown in Figure 15, the filter media 807 is located between the upper surface 810 of the chamber body 800 and a lower surface of the filter cover 805.

[0322] The filter media 807 may be oriented so as to be parallel to the upper surface 810 of the chamber body 800 and / or the base 801 . In some examples, filter media 807 may be oriented so as to lie on the horizontal plane, as previously described. In other examples, the filter media 807 may be oriented so as to be perpendicular to the upper surface 810 of the chamber body 800 and / or the base 801 . In other examples, the filter media 807 may be oriented so as to be angled with respect to the upper surface 810 of the chamber body 800 and / or the base 801 .

[0323] As shown in Figure 15, the filter media 807 may be arranged so that a downstream side of the filter media 807 is facing the upper surface 810 of the of the chamber body 800and / or the base 801 , and an upstream side of the filter media 807 is facing away from the upper surface 810 of the of the chamber body 800 and / or the base 801 .

[0324] As described above, the filter media 807 may be of help to prevent contamination of the breathing assistance apparatus 10 when pressure-based therapies, such as bi-level pressure therapies, are provided. In pressure-based therapies a patient may exhale into the patient interface 30, and exhaled gases may pass down the supply conduit 20 towards the humidification chamber 120 and the flow generator 11 . These exhaled gases may contain contaminants, which the filter media 807 can prevent from passing upstream of the filter media 807.

[0325] Additionally, the filter media 807 may be of help to prevent contamination in scenarios where therapies are being provided at lower flow rates (e.g., paediatric NHF or CPAP, or low flow oxygen for adults). When therapy is provided at higher flow rates, the flow of gases may help to clear any exhaled gases from the gases flow path (for example, comprising the humidification chamber 120, supply conduit 20 and patient interface 30). At lower flow rates, this flushing effect may be lower and so not all exhaled gases may be flushed. These exhaled gases may contain contaminants, which the filter media 807 can prevent from passing upstream of the filter media 807.

[0326] The filter media 807 may also prevent any water (or other humidification fluid) from passing back upstream of the filter media 807 (for example to the flow generator). This may not only help to prevent contamination from passing upstream but may also prevent damage to the apparatus from water, as well as reducing potential sensing issues caused by the interaction between water and the various sensors of the apparatus.

[0327] The filter media 807 may be chosen to minimise the flow resistance across the filter media 807. By minimising the flow resistance across the filter media 807, the pressure drop across the pressure media 807 may also be minimised. The filter media 807 can be defined by various parameters such as filter media surface area, filter media layer number / count, and / or filter material. The filter media parameters may be chosen to minimise flow resistance across the filter media 807. Minimising the flow resistance may minimise the pressure drop across the filter media 807 and / or to keep pressure drop across the filter media 807 below a certain threshold, and / or to target a specific pressure drop, or a target range of pressure drops, across the filter media 807. For example, the target pressure drop or range of pressure drops may be dependent on flow rate.

[0328] In some examples, the filter media 807 may be a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter.

[0329] In some examples the filter media 807 may be pleated or non-pleated.

[0330] In some examples, the filter media 807 may be made of an electrostatic filter material. In some examples, the filter media 807 may be woven or non-woven.

[0331] In some examples, the filter media may be made from a polypropylene and / or wool.

[0332] In some examples, the filter media may have a density of at least 300 grams per square metre (gsm).

[0333] In some examples, the filter media may have a density of about 50 gsm to about 400 gsm, or about 60 gsm to about 300 gsm, or about 50 gsm, or about 60 gsm, or about 70 gsm, or about 150 gsm, or about 200 gsm, or about 250 gsm, or about 300 gsm.

[0334] In some examples, the filter media may be pleated — for example, as shown in Figures 20 and 21 . Pleated filters may have lower pressure drops relative to non-pleated material with similar filtration efficiency, as the surface area of the media is increased.

[0335] Having a pleated arrangement can allow for a thicker media to be used. Thicker filter media may comprise more layers of filter material and therefore may have a higher filtration efficiency. The reduced pressure drop from having a pleated arrangement may offset or at least reduce the increased pressure drop caused by the thicker media.

[0336] In some cases, pleated filter media may maintain their filter efficiency for longer relative to a non-pleated filter media. In particular, pleated filter media may maintain their filter efficiency for longer relative to a non-pleated filter media in a humid environment.

[0337] In some cases, pleated filter media may be able to absorb more water before becoming saturated.

[0338] In some examples, the filter may be pleated in a horizontal plane (for example, as shown in Figures 20 and 21 , or a vertical plane.

[0339] The height of the pleats and / or the distance between the pleats can be varied to adapt the surface area of the filter media 807 and / or the pressure drop across the filter media 807.

[0340] In some examples, at least one surface of the filter media 807 may be hydrophobic. The filter media 807 itself may be hydrophobic and / or the filter media 807 may be coated with a hydrophobic material. The ability of the filter media 807 to repel water may help to increase the lifespan of the filter media 807 and prevent water from flowing back to the device.

[0341] The surface area of the filter media 807 may be at least 50% of the area of the upper surface 810 of the chamber body 800 when viewed from a top of the humidification chamber 120. In another example, the surface area of the filter media 807 may be about 50% to about 80% of the area of the upper surface 810 of the chamber body 800 when viewed from a top of the humidification chamber 120. In other embodiments, the surface area of the filter media 807 may be above 80% of the area of the upper surface 810 of the chamber body 800 when viewed from a top of the humidification chamber 120.

[0342] Having the surface area of the filter media 807 be a larger percentage of the area of the upper surface 810 of the chamber body 800 when viewed from a top of the humidification chamber 120 allows for the surface area of the filter media 807 to be greater, which corresponds to a lower resistance to flow and / or pressure drop across the filter media.

[0343] The filter media 807 may comprise a thinned section 813 extending around its periphery for example as shown in Figures 18 and 19. The thinned section 813 may be located between the upper surface 810 of the chamber body 800 and a lower surface of the filter cover 805 as described in more detail below. The central section 814 may have a greater thickness than the thinned section 813.

[0344] As shown in Figure 18, the thinned section 813 may be a decrease in thickness of the filter media 807 from the upper surface of the filter media 807, and for example as shown in Figure 19 the lower surface of the filter media 807 may be flat. In other examples, the upper surface may be flat, and the thinned section 813 may be a decrease in thickness of the filter media 807 from the upper surface of the filter media 807.

[0345] The thinned section 813 may be formed during manufacturing of the filter media 807 or may be caused by compression of the filter media 807 when it is held in place between the upper surface 810 of the chamber body 800 and a lower surface of the filter cover 805.

[0346] Figures 20 and 21 show an example filter 825 where the filter media 807 is surrounded by a filter frame 820. The filter frame 820 may provide a frame around at least part of, or the entire the perimeter of the filter media 807.

[0347] The filter frame 820 may be rigid. In some examples, the filter frame 820 may provide structural support to the filter media 807.

[0348] The filter frame 820 may comprise an inner wall 838 configured to engage the filter media 807. The inner wall 838 may for example be ultrasonically welded to the filter media 807. In some examples, the filter frame 820 may be overmoulded over the filter media. In some examples, the filter frame 820 may be glued to the filter media. Additionally, or alternatively, one or more projections may be provided on the inner wall 838 to retain the filter media 807. The one or more projections may be provided to act to retain the pleats of the filter media 807 in the correct orientation.

[0349] The filter frame 820 may comprise at least one outwardly extending protrusion 829. The outwardly extending protrusion 829 may be provided around the entire periphery of the filter frame 820 or be provided in a number of discrete protrusions arranged around the periphery of the filter frame 820. The outwardly extending protrusion 829 may be used to help retain the filter 825 between the filter cover 805 and chamber body 800.

[0350] In examples where the filter media 807 has a filter frame 820, the filter frame 820 may engage with a slot in the rim of the rim 830 of the chamber body 800, and the second rim 833 of the filter cover 805. The filter frame 820 may be retained in the same way as the filter media 807 as described below.

[0351] In some examples, the filter frame 820 may extend around at least part of the perimeter of the filter media 807 and the filter frame 820 and filter media 807 may both be retained as described in more detail below.

[0352] As shown in Figures 20 and 21 , the filter media 807 may be pleated. In other embodiments, the filter media 807 of Figures 20 and 21 may not be pleated. As shown in Figures 20 and 21 the filter media 807 may be formed to an arc. The inner wall 838 of filter frame 820 may form the arc shape which the filter media 807 can be provided to. In these examples the pleats of the filter media 807 may also follow the arc shape.

[0353] In other embodiments, the pleats of the filter may be arranged linearly despite the shape of the example filter frame 820 shown in Figures 20 and 21.

[0354] In other examples, the filter frame 820 and filter media 807 may be generally rectangular, circular, triangular or another shape.

[0355] As described above, the filter media 807 may be located between the upper surface 810 of the chamber body 800 and a lower surface of the filter cover 805. In some examples, the filter media 807 is retained between the upper surface 810 of the chamber body 800 and a lower surface of the filter cover 805.

[0356] As shown in Figures 15, 16, and 22, the upper surface 810 of the chamber body 800 comprises a rim 830. The rim 830 is configured to support at least part of an outer edge 834 of the filter media 807. The rim 830 extends in a direction inwardly away from the one or more side walls 816 of the chamber body 800.

[0357] The rim 830 may be vertically offset in an upward direction relative to the filter chamber floor 840.

[0358] In some examples, the rim 830 is configured to support the outer edge 834 of the filter media 807 which defines the thinned section 813.

[0359] The filter media 807 can be located between the rim 830 of the upper surface 810 of the chamber body 800 and a lower surface 832 of the filter cover 805.

[0360] In some examples, the filter media 807 is retained between the rim 830 of the upper surface 810 of the chamber body 800 and a lower surface of the filter cover 805. The filter media 807 may be retained by friction (for example by being compressed between the upper surface 810 of the chamber body 800 and a lower surface of the filter cover 805). In other examples, the filter media 807 may be retained by other means for example gluing and / or welding.

[0361] In other examples, the filter media 807 may be retained to either the upper surface 810 of the chamber body 800 or the lower surface of the filter cover 805. For example, the filter media 807 may be retained to the filter cover 805 and the filter cover 805 is then connected to the upper surface 810 of the chamber body 800.

[0362] As shown in Figure 17, in some examples, the lower surface 832 of the filter cover 805 comprises a second rim 833. The filter media 807 is configured to be retained between the rim 830 of the chamber body 800, and the second rim 833 of the filter cover 805. The second rim 833 and rim 830 provide two surfaces which can hold the outer edge 834 of the filter media 807. The second rim 833 and rim 830 may help to provide a pneumatic seal around the outer edge 834 of the filter media 807 as described in more detail below.

[0363] The surfaces which hold the hold the outer edge 834 of the filter media 807 may be flat and / or substantially parallel to the filter media 807 when the filter media 807 is held between the surfaces.

[0364] One or more filter retention features may be provided. The one or more filter retention features may comprise one or more filter media retention features that are configured to retain the filter media 807 and / or one or more one or more filter frame retention features which are configured to retain the filter frame 820. It will be appreciated that the disclosure below with respect to filter media retention features can equally apply to filter frame retention features.

[0365] One or more of the rim 830 of the chamber body 800 and / or the second rim 833 of the filter cover 805 may comprise one or more filter media retention features. The filter media retention features may help to retain the filter media between the chamber body 800 and the filter cover. The filter media retention features may help to reduce movement of the filter media 807 relative to the chamber body 800 and / or the filter cover 805. The filter media retention features may also help to reduce movement of the filter media 807 when a pressure is applied to either side of the filter media 807. The pressure applied to either side of the filter media may tension the filter media and cause the outer edges to be pulled inwardly.

[0366] For example, an upper surface of the rim 830 of the chamber body 800 and / or a lower surface of the second rim 833 of the filter cover 508 may comprise the one or more filter media retention features. The filter media retention features may comprise at least one protrusion. In some examples, the at least one protrusion comprises a plurality of protrusions. The plurality of protrusions may be distributed around the upper surface of the rim of the chamber body and / or a lower surface of the rim of the filter cover. The plurality of protrusions may be distributed evenly, or unevenly around the rim 830 and / or the second rim 833.

[0367] The at least one protrusion may comprise one or more of: one or more teeth (i.e., terminating in a point) or one or more bumps (i.e., terminating in a rounded surface).

[0368] As shown in Figure 24, in some examples, the upper surface of the rim 830 of the chamber body 800 comprises a plurality of filter media retention features 843. In this example, each of the plurality of filter media retention features 843 comprise a protrusion. Each protrusion comprises a tooth terminating in a point. The plurality of filter media retention features 843 are distributed evenly around the upper surface of the rim of the chamber body.

[0369] In some examples, additionally or alternatively to the protrusions, the one or more filter media retention feature comprises a textured surface. In some examples, the textured surface is provided across part of the rim 830 and / or the second rim 833. In other examples, the entire upper surface of the rim of the chamber body and / or a lower surface of the rim of the filter cover comprises the textured surface. The textured surface may aid in preventing relative movement between the filter media 807 and the rim 830 and / or the second rim 833.

[0370] The retention features may work in conjunction with support elements 817 to help prevent the filter media 807 from dislodging from one or more of rim 830, and / or second rim 833. The retention features may support an outer edge of the filter media 807 while the support elements 817 may support a central portion of the filter media 807.

[0371] In some examples, the one or more filter retention features may comprise one or more retention protrusions extending from the outwardly extending protrusion 829 of the filter frame 820 (as described in more detail below). The one or more retention protrusions may be located at each corner of the outwardly extending protrusion 829 and / or distributed along the arc or perimeter of the outwardly extending protrusion 829. One or more corresponding recesses may be provided on the chamber body 800 to engage with the one or more retention protrusions. In some examples, the one or more retention protrusions are located on the chamber body 800 and the one or more recesses are provided on the outwardlyextending protrusion 829 of the filter frame 820. In some examples, the filter frame 820 may be glued or welded to the chamber body 800 with or without retention protrusions and / or corresponding recesses being present.

[0372] Figure 22 shows an example cross section showing a portion of the chamber body 800, the filter media 807 and the filter cover 805.

[0373] The upper surface 810 of the chamber body 800 comprises a projection 850. The projection 850 extends upwardly. The projection 850 extends around the outside of the rim 830 of the chamber body 800 (for example as shown in Figure 16).

[0374] The upper surface also comprises an outward rim 851 which may be an outer edge of the upper surface of the chamber body that extends horizontally outward with respect to the projection 850. As shown in Figure 16 the length the outward rim 851 extends outward with respect to the projection 850 may vary. The outward rim 851 may be at the same height as the rim 830 (for example as shown in Figure 22), with respect to the base 801 . In other examples, the outward rim 851 rim may extend to a height which is below the rim 830.

[0375] As shown in Figure 22, the projection 850 is located between the outward rim 851 and the second rim 833.

[0376] The filter cover 805 comprises a skirt 852. The skirt extends around a periphery of the filter cover 805. As shown in Figure 22, the skirt extends downwardly. The skirt 852 is configured to fit about the projection 850. The skirt 852 may locate the filter cover 805 on the chamber body 800 during assembly of the humidification chamber 120.

[0377] The skirt 852 can be bonded to the projection 850. The skirt 852 may be bonded to the top surface of the projection 850 and / or the outwardly facing surface of projection 850. In other examples, the filter cover 805 may be bonded to the chamber body 800 in another location, for example between an inner surface of the filter cover 805 and a surface of the chamber body 800. The bonding may create a seal between the filter cover 805 and the chamber body 800.

[0378] The skirt 852 can be bonded to the projection 850 for example by welding techniques such as ultrasonic welding, and / or gluing. Bonding the skirt 852 to the projection 850 connects the filter cover 805 with the chamber body 800 and retains the filter media 807 between rim 830 and second rim 833 (for example as shown in Figure 22).

[0379] In some examples, the projection 850 may help to hold the filter media 807 in place while the filter cover 805 is bonded to the chamber body 800.

[0380] In other examples, the filter cover 805 may be connectable and disconnectable to the chamber body 800 for example by one or more latches and / or by a friction fit and / or snap fit.

[0381] In examples where the filter cover 805 is connectable and disconnectable to the chamber body 800 the filter media 807 may be able to be replaced.

[0382] In some examples, a gasket may be provided between the chamber body 800 and the filter cover 805 to provide a seal between the chamber body and the filter cover.

[0383] In some examples, the humidification chamber 120 may additionally comprise a nebuliser port 822. The nebuliser port 822 may be configured for receiving a nebuliser and / ornebulised particles from a nebuliser. In some examples, a nebuliser outlet is inserted into the nebuliser port 822. In other examples, an outlet of the nebuliser may be connected to the nebuliser port 822 via an adaptor, connector, and / or conduit so as to deliver nebulised particles to the nebuliser port 822.

[0384] The nebuliser port 822 may be located adjacent to the humidification chamber gases outlet 803. Having the nebuliser port 822 located adjacent to the humidification chamber gases outlet 803 allows the nebulised particles to be provided to the flow of gases as they exit the humidification chamber 120 via the humidification chamber gases outlet 803. More specifically, the placement of the nebuliser port 822 adjacent to the humidification chamber gases outlet 803 may help to promote the entrainment of nebulised particles to the flow of gases as it exits the outlet 803, and which will ideally minimise how many particles get stuck in the humidification chamber.

[0385] The nebuliser port 822 may be oriented substantially perpendicular to the humidification chamber gases outlet 803. This arrangement may aid in providing the nebulised particles to the flow of gases as they exit the humidification chamber 120 via the humidification chamber gases outlet 803. The nebuliser port 822 may extend towards an entry into the humidification chamber gases outlet 803; in other examples, the nebuliser port 822 may extend into the humidification chamber gases outlet 803 itself. In some examples, the nebuliser port 822 may extend into the humidification chamber interior of the humidification chamber 120.

[0386] In some examples, such as in Figure 12, the nebuliser port 822 may extend, at least partially, through one or more side walls 816 of the chamber body 800. In other examples, the nebuliser port 822 may be located above one or more side walls 816 of the chamber body 800. In some examples the nebuliser port 822 may form part of the upper surface of the chamber body 800. In some examples, the nebuliser port 822 may be located above the upper surface of the chamber body 800. In such examples, there might be a baffle provided in or extending from the upper surface which can direct or guide the stream of nebulised particles towards the outlet 803.

[0387] In some examples, a baffle may be provided in the nebuliser port 822 and / or at an exit of the nebuliser port 822 to direct the nebulised particles towards the exit of the humidification chamber gases outlet 803 and / or away from the chamber interior. In some examples, the baffle may be a curved or angled baffle extending from a lower surface of the nebuliser port 822 at or near the exit in a direction upward (for example towards the exit of the humidification chamber gases outlet 803) when the nebuliser port is horizontal.

[0388] One potential advantage of locating the nebuliser port at or near the humidification chamber gases outlet 803 is that this positioning means nebulised particles do not need to pass through the filter media 807 and so are provided to the patient, as the filter media may prevent nebulised particles from crossing. Additionally, any nebulised particles which may travel back into the chamber interior can be prevented from entering the apparatus 10 by the filter media 807.

[0389] The humidification chamber 120 may also include a chamber fill port 819. The chamber fill port 819 can be used to refill the humidification chamber 120 with a humidifying fluid (for example water) by providing a pathway to the chamber interior. The chamber fill port819 may be connected to a source of water such as a water fill bag or other container and / or be provided with water as needed (e.g., via a syringe).

[0390] The humidification chamber 120 may also include one or more float valves which act to limit the amount of water in the chamber interior. The float valves may be configured to allow the passage of water into the chamber interior via the chamber fill port 819 when the water level is below a threshold and prevent the flow of water into the chamber interior via the chamber fill port 819 when the water level is above a threshold. The one or more float valves may comprise one or more floats connected to one or more valves which may allow and / or prevent the flow of water into the chamber interior via the chamber fill port 819, based on the height of the float.

[0391] In some examples, the filter 825 and / or filter media 807 may be replaceable by a user. In the examples such as is shown in Figure 25, the filter 825 comprises a filter frame820 and a filter media 807. The filter frame 820 at least partially, or entirely, surrounds a perimeter of the filter media 807.

[0392] As shown in Figure 25, the filter frame 820 may comprise an upper frame 821 and a lower frame 823, which may be connectable and disconnectable with each other (for example via a snap fit, a friction fit and / or or one or more latches). In some examples, a hinge may be provided between the upper frame 821 and the lower frame 823 (for example, a living hinge).

[0393] In other examples, the filter media 807 may be permanently retained within a filter frame, for example, by overmoulding the filter frame over the filter media and / or ultrasonically welding the filter frame and the filter media. In these examples, the filter media 807 is not replaceable and the entire filter is replaced rather than just the filter media 807.

[0394] The filter media 807 is located between the upper frame 821 and the lower frame 823 when the upper frame 821 and the lower frame 823 are connected. The upper frame 821 and lower frame 823 may comprise one or more rims and / or one or more filter media retention features (as described above) which are configured to retain the filter media 807.

[0395] In some examples, the filter 825 may have the filter frame 820 and / or the filter media 805 as described with respect to Figures 20 and 21

[0396] The filter media 807 may be replaceable by a user by disconnecting the upper frame821 and the lower frame 823, removing the old filter media and replacing it with a new filter media 807 and then reconnecting the upper frame 821 and the lower frame 823 to retain the filter media.

[0397] As shown in Figure 25, the filter cover 805 may be configured to be opened by a user so that the filter 825 and / or filter media 807 can be replaced. The filter cover may be connectable and disconnectable with the chamber body 800 (for example via a snap fit, a friction fit and / or or one or more latches). In some examples, a hinge may be provided between the filter cover 805 and the chamber body 800 (for example a living hinge).

[0398] The filter frame 820 may seal with the chamber body 800. In some examples, such as is shown in Figure 25, the filter frame may comprise an external seal 828 which extends around the perimeter of the filter frame 820 and is configured to seal with one or more filter chamber wall 827 of the chamber body 800 when the filter 825 is inserted into the chamber body 800.

[0399] When the filter cover 805 is opened, the filter 825 can be replaced by a user. Once the new filter 825 has been installed (or the filter media 807 replaced), the filter cover 805 can be closed.

[0400] Also disclosed is a kit having the humidification chamber ad described above and at least one conduit (for example supply conduit 20, expiratory conduit 117 and / or conduit 157).

[0401] In some examples the kit may also comprise one or more of: one or more replacement filters, one or more replacement filter media, one or more patient interfaces (optionally a nasal cannula, a nasal pillow interface, a full-face mask, a nasal mask and / or a tracheotomy interface).

[0402] Where in the foregoing description reference has been made to elements or integers having known equivalents, then such equivalents are included as if they were individually set forth.

[0403] Although embodiments have been described with reference to a number of illustrative embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. Therefore, the preferred embodiments should be considered in a descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation, and also the technical scope of the invention is not limited to the embodiments. Furthermore, the present invention is defined not by the detailed description of the invention but by the appended claims, and all differences within the scope will be construed as being comprised in the present disclosure.

[0404] Many modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention as herein described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . A humidification chamber comprising: a chamber body for connection to a base defining a chamber interior, the chamber body comprising a humidification chamber gases outlet, and an opening defining a passageway between the chamber interior and a filter chamber, the filter chamber defined by a filter cover and an upper surface of the chamber body, the filter cover comprising a humidification chamber gases inlet, a filter comprising a filter media located in the filter chamber between the humidification chamber gases inlet and the opening.

2. The humidification chamber of claim 1 , wherein gases enter the humidification chamber gases inlet, pass through the filter media, into the chamber interior, where the gases are humidified, and exit the humidification chamber gases outlet.

3. The humidification chamber of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the humidification chamber gases inlet is formed as part of the filter cover and extends in a horizontal direction from an entry opening before extending downward towards a base of the humidification chamber and / or towards the filter media.

4. The humidification chamber of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the humidification chamber gases inlet provides for a flow path to the filter chamber.

5. The humidification chamber of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the humidification chamber gases outlet extends in a direction away from the base of the humidification chamber, and optionally substantially vertically.

6. The humidification chamber of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein a baffle is provided in the chamber interior adjacent the opening of the chamber body.

7. The humidification chamber of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the base is permanently attached to the chamber body, or disconnectable from the chamber body.

8. The humidification chamber of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the filter media has a surface area at least 50% of the area of the upper surface of the chamber body when viewed from a top of the humidification chamber.

9. The humidification chamber of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the filter media has a surface area between about 50% and about 80% of the area of the upper surface of the chamber body when viewed from a top of the humidification chamber.

10. The humidification chamber of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the filter media has a surface area at least 80% of the area of the upper surface of the chamber body when viewed from a top of the humidification chamber.11 . The humidification chamber of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the filter media is pleated.

12. The humidification chamber of any one of claims 1 to 11 , wherein the filter media comprises an electrostatic filter material.

13. The humidification chamber of claims 12, wherein the electrostatic filter material has a density of at least 300 grams per square metre.

14. The humidification chamber of claim 12 or claim 13, wherein the electrostatic filter material has a density of about 50 grams per square metre to about 300 grams per square metre, or at least 300 50 grams per square metre, or about 400 grams per square metre.

15. The humidification chamber of any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the chamber body and the filter cover are formed from polycarbonate and / or polysulfone and / or ABS (Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene).

16. The humidification chamber of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the filter media is located between the upper surface of the chamber body and a lower surface of the filter cover.

17. The humidification chamber of claim 16, wherein the upper surface of the chamber body comprises a rim, which is configured to support at least part of an outer edge of the filter media and / or a filter frame of the filter.

18. The humidification chamber of claim 17, wherein the rim extends inwardly in a direction away from one or more side walls of the filter chamber.

19. The humidification chamber of any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein the filter media is retained between the upper surface of the chamber body and the lower surface of the filter cover.

20. The humidification chamber of any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein the filter media and / or the filter frame is located between the rim of the upper surface of the chamber body and a lower surface of the filter cover.21 . The humidification chamber of any one of claims 17 to 20, wherein the filter media and / or the filter frame is retained between the rim of upper surface of the chamber body and the lower surface of the filter cover.

22. The humidification chamber of any one of claims 16 to 19, wherein a lower surface of the filter cover comprises a rim.

23. The humidification chamber of claim 22, wherein the filter media and / or the filter frame is configured to be retained between the rim of the chamber body, and the rim of the filter cover.

24. The humidification chamber of claim 22 or claim 23, wherein an upper surface of the rim of the chamber body and / or a lower surface of the rim of the filter cover comprises one or more filter retention features.

25. The humidification chamber of claim 24, wherein the filter retention features are filter media retention features and / or filter frame retention features.

26. The humidification chamber of claim 24 or claim 25, wherein the one or more filter retention features comprise at least one protrusion.

27. The humidification chamber of claim 26, wherein the at least one protrusion comprises a plurality of protrusions distributed around the upper surface of the rim of the chamber body and / or a lower surface of the rim of the filter cover.

28. The humidification chamber of claim 27, wherein the plurality of protrusions are distributed evenly, or unevenly around the rim(s).

29. The humidification chamber any one of claim 26 to claim 28, wherein the at least one protrusion comprises one or more of: one or more teeth or one or more bumps.

30. The humidification chamber any one of claim 24 to claim 29, wherein the one or more filter retention feature comprises a textured surface.

31. The humidification chamber of claim 30, wherein the entire upper surface of the rim of the chamber body and / or a lower surface of the rim of the filter cover comprises the textured surface.

32. The humidification chamber of any one of claim 1 to claim 31 , wherein the upper surface of the chamber body defines a filter chamber floor and at least one filter chamber side wall.

33. The humidification chamber of claim 32, wherein the filter chamber floor slopes downwardly towards the base, in a direction towards the opening of the upper surface of the chamber body.

34. The humidification chamber of claim 32 or claim 33, wherein the filter chamber floor is located below the filter media.

35. The humidification chamber of any one of claim 32 to claim 34, wherein one or more support elements extend upwards from the filter chamber floor to a lower surface of the filter media.

36. The humidification chamber of claim 35, wherein the one or more support elements are configured to support the filter media to prevent deformation of the filter media.

37. The humidification chamber of claim 35 or claim 36, wherein the one or more support elements comprise one or more walls.

38. The humidification chamber of claim 37, wherein the one or more walls extend in a direction away from the opening in the chamber body.

39. The humidification chamber of claim 37 or claim 38, wherein the walls are arranged in a radial pattern about the opening.

40. The humidification chamber of any one of claim 32 to claim 39, wherein the filter chamber floor is located below the upper surface of the chamber body.41 . The humidification chamber of any one of claim 32 to claim 40, wherein the filter cover defines a filter chamber roof, and wherein the filter chamber roof is located above the upper surface of the chamber body when the filter cover is attached to the chamber body.

42. The humidification chamber of claim 40 or claim 41 , wherein the one or more support elements extend downward from the filter chamber roof towards an upper surface of the filter media.

43. The humidification chamber of claim 42, wherein the one or more support elements of the filter chamber roof are configured to support the filter media to prevent deformation of the filter media.

44. The humidification chamber of any one of claims 1 to 47, wherein the filter cover is bonded to the chamber body.

45. The humidification chamber of any one of claim 1 to claim 44, wherein the upper surface comprises a projection which extends upwardly.

46. The humidification chamber of claim 45, wherein the upper surface comprises an outward rim which extends in outward from a base of the projection.

47. The humidification chamber of claim 46, wherein the projection is located between the rim and the outward rim.

48. The humidification chamber of claim 47, wherein the skirt of the filter cover is bonded to the projection of the chamber body.

49. The humidification chamber of any one of claim 1 to claim 48, wherein the filter chamber comprises a filtered side between the filter media and the humidification chamber gases inlet, and an unfiltered side between the filter media and the opening in the upper surface of the chamber body.

50. The humidification chamber of claim 49, wherein the filtered side of the filter chamber is sealed from the unfiltered side of the filter chamber, such that any flow of gases from the filtered side to the unfiltered side is across the filter media51 . The humidification chamber of any one of claim 1 to claim 50, wherein the chamber body and the filter cover are joined by ultrasonically welding52. The humidification chamber of any one of claim 1 to claim 51 , wherein a gasket is provided between the chamber body and the filter cover to provide a seal between the chamber body and the filter cover.

53. The humidification chamber of any one of claim 1 to claim 52, wherein the chamber body comprises a nebuliser port, the nebuliser port for receiving a nebuliser and / or nebulised particles from a nebuliser.

54. The humidification chamber of claim 53, wherein the nebuliser port extends through a sidewall of the chamber.

55. The humidification chamber of claim 53 or claim 54, wherein the nebuliser port is located adjacent the humidification chamber gases outlet.

56. The humidification chamber of any one of claims 53 to 55, wherein the nebuliser port is located substantially perpendicular to the humidification chamber gases outlet.

57. The humidification chamber of any one of claims 53 to 56, wherein the nebuliser port extends towards an entry into the humidification chamber gases outlet.

58. The humidification chamber of any one of claims 53 to 57, wherein the nebuliser port extends into the chamber interior of the humidification chamber.

59. A humidification chamber comprising: a chamber body and a base defining a chamber interior, the chamber body comprising an upper surface, a filter cover being configured to be attached to the chamber body, wherein the chamber body comprises a rim located on the upper surface of the chamber body, a filter comprising a filter media, wherein at least part of an outer edge of the filter media is configured to be supported by the rim, and be retained between the rim and the filter cover.

60. A humidification chamber comprising: a chamber body and a base defining a chamber interior, the chamber body comprising a humidification chamber gases outlet and a filter chamber opening defining a passageway between the chamber interior and a filter chamber, the filter chamber defined by a filter cover and an upper surface of the chamber body, the filter cover comprising a humidification chamber gases inlet, a filter comprising a filter media located in the filter chamber between the humidification chamber gases inlet and the opening, wherein the upper surface of the chamber body defines a filter chamber floor and at least one filter chamber side wall, wherein the filter chamber opening is located in the filter chamber floor, and wherein one or more support members extends from the filter chamber floor to support the filter media.61 . The humidification chamber of claim 60, wherein the filter chamber floor is located below the filter media.

62. The humidification chamber of claim 60 or claim 61 , wherein the filter chamber floor, or a portion of the filter chamber floor is angled downward towards a base of the humidification chamber.

63. The humidification chamber of any one of claims 61 to 63, wherein the filter chamber floor slopes downwardly towards the opening of the upper surface of the chamber body.

64. The humidification chamber of claim 60 or claim 61 , wherein the filter chamber floor is substantially parallel to the base of the humidification chamber.

65. The humidification chamber of any one of claims 61 to 64, wherein a baffle is provided in the chamber interior adjacent the filter chamber opening.

66. The humidification chamber of claim 65, wherein the baffle extends from the chamber floor into the chamber interior.

67. A kit, the kit comprising the humidification chamber of any one of claims 1 to 66 and at least one conduit.

68. The kit of claim 67, wherein the kit further comprises one or more of: one or more replacement filters, one or more replacement filter media, one or more patient interfaces (optionally a nasal cannula, a nasal pillow interface, a full-face mask, a nasal mask and / or a tracheotomy interface).

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