U.S. patent application number 16/059261 was filed with the patent office on 2018-12-06 for apparatus for humidifying a respiratory gas.
The applicant listed for this patent is ResMed R&D Germany GmbH. Invention is credited to Harald GENGER, Andreas KLOPP, Bernd Christoph LANG, Stefan Rolf MADAUS, Wolfgang MAYER, Stefan Thomas SCHATZL, Harald Wolfgang VOGELE.
Application Number | 20180344965 16/059261 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 27438973 |
Filed Date | 2018-12-06 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180344965 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
MAYER; Wolfgang ; et
al. |
December 6, 2018 |
APPARATUS FOR HUMIDIFYING A RESPIRATORY GAS
Abstract
A positive pressure gas supply system includes a CPAP unit a
humidifier support housing with a receiving portion. The receiving
portion is bound by a bottom wall with a heater and at least one
side wall extending vertically from the bottom wall. A gas feed
opening in the at least one side wall is in fluid communication
with a gas feed path from the CPAP unit. A refilling module
configured to retain a body of water is removably placed within the
receiving portion from a location above the receiving portion so
that a metallic part of the refilling module contacts the heater
when the refilling module is resting on the bottom wall of the
receiving portion. In addition, a sealing device is configured to
seal off the refilling module in the receiving portion. The sealing
device and the refilling module are removable as a unit from the
humidifier support housing.
Inventors: |
MAYER; Wolfgang; (Ebringen,
DE) ; GENGER; Harald; (Starnberg, DE) ;
MADAUS; Stefan Rolf; (Graefelfing, DE) ; KLOPP;
Andreas; (Munich, DE) ; SCHATZL; Stefan Thomas;
(Schwifting, DE) ; VOGELE; Harald Wolfgang;
(Gauting, DE) ; LANG; Bernd Christoph;
(Graefelfing, DE) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
ResMed R&D Germany GmbH |
Martinsried |
|
DE |
|
|
Family ID: |
27438973 |
Appl. No.: |
16/059261 |
Filed: |
August 9, 2018 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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15846815 |
Dec 19, 2017 |
10052450 |
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16059261 |
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15373526 |
Dec 9, 2016 |
9884163 |
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15846815 |
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15042474 |
Feb 12, 2016 |
9545494 |
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15373526 |
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13916930 |
Jun 13, 2013 |
9545493 |
|
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15042474 |
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12958718 |
Dec 2, 2010 |
8469025 |
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13916930 |
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11414432 |
May 1, 2006 |
7938112 |
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12958718 |
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10048786 |
Aug 6, 2002 |
7096864 |
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PCT/EP00/07602 |
Aug 4, 2000 |
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11414432 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61M 16/162 20130101;
A62B 9/003 20130101; A61M 2205/42 20130101; A61M 16/105 20130101;
A61M 16/0057 20130101; A61M 16/107 20140204; A61M 16/109 20140204;
A61M 16/16 20130101; A61M 2016/0027 20130101; A61M 16/0875
20130101; A61M 16/0816 20130101; A61M 16/0066 20130101; A61M
16/0858 20140204; A61M 2209/08 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61M 16/16 20060101
A61M016/16; A62B 9/00 20060101 A62B009/00; A61M 16/08 20060101
A61M016/08; A61M 16/10 20060101 A61M016/10; A61M 16/00 20060101
A61M016/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Aug 5, 1999 |
DE |
199 36 499.0 |
Oct 13, 1999 |
DE |
199 49 283.2 |
Oct 13, 1999 |
DE |
199 49 292.1 |
Oct 13, 1999 |
DE |
299 18 048.4 |
Claims
1-20. (canceled)
21. A positive pressure gas supply system configured to supply
positive pressure gas to a patient, the system comprising: a
continuous positive air pressure (CPAP) unit configured to generate
a flow of positive pressure gas; a humidifier support housing
having a receiving portion, the receiving portion being bound by a
bottom wall and at least one side wall extending vertically from
the bottom wall, the at least one side wall comprising a gas feed
opening in fluid communication with a gas feed path from the CPAP
unit, the bottom wall comprising a heater; a refilling module
configured to retain a body of water and be removably placed within
the receiving portion from a location above the receiving portion,
the refilling module comprising a metallic portion configured to
contact the heater when the refilling module is resting on the
bottom wall of the receiving portion; and a sealing device
configured to seal off the refilling module in the receiving
portion, the sealing device and the refilling module being
removable as a unit from the humidifier support housing.
22. The system of claim 21, wherein the at least one side wall
further comprises a gas discharge opening opposite the gas feed
opening.
23. The system of claim 22, wherein the gas discharge opening is in
fluid communication with a gas discharge path that leads to a gas
outlet of the humidifier support housing.
24. The system of claim 23, wherein the gas outlet of the
humidifier support housing is configured to connect to an air
delivery tube.
25. The system of claim 24, wherein the refilling module is
configured to complete an air path between the gas feed path and
the gas discharge path when the refilling module rests on the
bottom wall of the receiving portion.
26. The system of claim 25, wherein the gas feed opening and gas
discharge opening are at substantially the same height.
27. The system of claim 26, wherein the refilling module comprises
a direction-changing device that intervenes between the gas feed
opening and the gas discharge opening when the refilling module
rests on the bottom wall of the receiving portion, the direction
changing device being configured to divert the positive pressure
gas downward toward the bottom of the refilling module.
28. The system of claim 21, wherein the refilling module has a top
portion, a bottom portion and a seal between the top and bottom
portions.
29. The system of claim 28, wherein the refill module comprises an
air inlet and an air outlet on the at least one side wall, the air
inlet and the air outlet being configured so that the positive
pressure gas enters and exits the refill module in a substantially
lateral direction.
30. The system of claim 29, wherein the refill module comprises a
top surface opposite the bottom and the air inlet and the outlet
are between the top portion and the bottom portion.
31. The system of claim 21, wherein at least a portion of the
sealing device extends around a perimeter of the refilling
module.
32. The system of claim 21, wherein the sealing device configured
to seal off the portion of the refilling module in the receiving
portion.
33. The system of claim 21, wherein the sealing device configured
to completely seal off the refilling module in the receiving
portion.
34. The system of claim 21, wherein the humidifier support housing
and the CPAP unit are integrated.
35. A positive pressure gas supply system configured to supply
positive pressure gas to a patient, the system comprising: a
continuous positive air pressure (CPAP) unit configured to generate
a flow of positive pressure gas; a humidifier support housing
having a receiving portion, the receiving portion being bound by a
bottom wall and at least one side wall extending vertically from
the bottom wall, the at least one side wall comprising a gas feed
opening in fluid communication with a gas feed path from the CPAP
unit and comprising a gas discharge opening opposite the gas feed
opening, the bottom wall comprising a heater; a refilling module
configured to retain a body of water and be removably placed within
the receiving portion from a location above the receiving portion,
the refilling module comprising a metallic portion configured to
contact the heater when the refilling module is in contact with the
bottom wall of the receiving portion; and a sealing device
attachable to the refilling module in such a manner that when the
sealing device is attached to the refilling module, placing the
refilling module in the receiving portion seals off a part of the
refilling module in the receiving portion.
36. The system of claim 35, wherein the gas discharge opening is in
fluid communication with a gas discharge path that leads to a gas
outlet of the humidifier support housing.
37. The system of claim 36, wherein the gas outlet of the
humidifier support housing is configured to connect to an air
delivery tube.
38. The system of claim 37, wherein the refilling module is
configured to complete an air path between the gas feed path and
the gas discharge path when the refilling module rests on the
bottom wall of the receiving portion.
39. The system of claim 35, wherein the gas feed opening and gas
discharge opening are at substantially the same height.
40. The system of claim 35, wherein the refilling module has a top
portion, a bottom portion and a seal between the top and bottom
portions.
41. The system of claim 35, wherein at least a portion of the
sealing device extends around a perimeter of the refilling
module.
42. The system of claim 35, wherein the refilling module comprises
a direction-changing device that intervenes between the gas feed
opening and the gas discharge opening when the refilling module
rests on the bottom wall of the receiving portion, the direction
changing device being configured to divert the positive pressure
gas downward toward the bottom of the refilling module.
43. An apparatus for delivering a flow of pressurized breathable
gas to a patient having a sleep-related disorder, the apparatus
comprising: a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) unit
comprising a blower configured to generate the flow of pressurized
breathable gas; a support housing integrated directly into the CPAP
unit and having a chamber with at least one side wall extending
from a bottom wall, the at least one side wall comprising a gas
feed opening in fluid communication with an outlet of the CPAP unit
and comprising a gas discharge opening separated from the gas feed
opening, the bottom wall comprising a horizontally extending heater
plate; and a refill module configured to hold a body of water and
be received within the chamber, the refill module comprising an air
inlet, an air outlet and a horizontally extending bottom with a
metallic heat conducting material configured to intimately contact
the heater plate when the refill module is received within the
chamber, wherein the refill module and the support housing are
configured so that insertion of the refill module in the chamber
fluidly connects the gas feed opening to the gas discharge opening,
wherein the refill module is configured to be locked in place
within the chamber, wherein when the refill module is locked within
the chamber, a portion of the refill module remains outside the
chamber, wherein the refilling module has a top portion a seal, the
seal, the air inlet and the air outlet being between the top
portion and the horizontally extending bottom, wherein the refill
module is configured to be opened by moving the top portion
relative to the bottom portion, wherein the chamber is open at one
end, wherein the refill module comprises a direction-changing
device configured to divert the flow of pressurized breathable gas
downward toward the bottom wall of the refill module, and wherein a
respiration tube connecting portion is fixed to an external side
wall of the support housing and is in fluid communication with the
gas discharge opening regardless of whether the refill module is
within the chamber.
44. The apparatus of claim 43, wherein the refill module is
configured to be opened by rotating the top portion relative to the
bottom portion.
45. The apparatus of claim 43, wherein the air inlet and the air
outlet of the refill module are configured so that the pressurized
breathable gas enters and exits the refill module in a
substantially lateral direction.
46. The apparatus of claim 43, wherein the refill module further
comprises at least one side wall extending upward from the
horizontally extending bottom, and wherein the air inlet and the
air outlet comprise openings in the at least one side wall.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser.
No. 15/846,815, filed Dec. 19, 2017, now allowed, which is a
continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 15/373,526, filed Dec. 9,
2016, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,884,163, which is a continuation of U.S.
application Ser. No. 15/042,474, filed Feb. 12, 2016, now U.S. Pat.
No. 9,545,494, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.
13/916,930, filed Jun. 13, 2013, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,545,493, which
is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 12/958,718, filed
Dec. 2, 2010, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,469,025, which is a divisional of
U.S. application Ser. No. 11/414,432, filed May 1, 2006, now U.S.
Pat. No. 7,938,112, which is a divisional of U.S. application Ser.
No. 10/048,786, filed Aug. 6, 2002, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,096,864,
which is the National Phase of International Application
PCT/EP00/07602, filed Aug. 4, 2000, which designated the U.S. and
claims priority to German Application No. 199 36 499.0, filed Aug.
5, 1999, German Application No. 199 49 292.1, filed Oct. 13, 1999,
German Application No. 199 49 283.2, filed Oct. 13, 1999 and German
Application No. 299 18 048.4, filed Oct. 13, 1999, respectively,
each of the above applications being incorporated by reference in
its entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The invention concerns an apparatus for supplying a
respiratory gas under an increased pressure comprising a blowing
device for delivering the respiratory gas, a housing device for
receiving the blowing device and a connecting device for connection
of a humidifying apparatus for humidifying the respiratory gas
delivered by the delivery device. The invention further concerns a
humidifying apparatus for humidifying a respiratory gas as well as
a respiratory gas tube or hose and a connecting apparatus
therefor.
2. Description of Related Art
[0003] Apparatuses for supplying a respiratory gas under an
increased pressure are used in particular in the field of sleep
therapy for dealing with sleep-related respiratory disturbances.
Supplying the respiratory gas under a predetermined increased
pressure, usually in the range of between 5 and 20 mbar, provides
for pneumatic splinting of the upper respiratory tracts of a
patient, in a physiologically well compatible fashion, whereby it
is possible to effectively prevent obstruction in that respiratory
tract region.
[0004] Usually the respiratory gas is formed directly from the
ambient air which is preferably sucked in by way of a filter
device. In dependence on the climatic conditions which fluctuate in
particular due to the time of year involved, it has proven to be
advantageous for the respiratory gas which is supplied to the
patient, for example by way of a blowing device, under a regulated,
possibly alternating pressure, to be humidified from time to time.
For that purpose it is possible to insert a humidifying device into
the respiratory gas path between the blowing device and the
respiratory mask, for example by way of an intermediate hose
portion. CPAP-units with an integrated humidifying apparatus are
also known.
[0005] In the case of the humidifying apparatuses which are only
inserted into a hose line however, there is frequently the problem
of inadequate strength and stability. In the case of CPAP-units
with an integrated humidifying apparatus the latter has to be
constantly taken around, even if there is temporarily no need for
humidification of the respiratory gas.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] Under the impulsion of that problem, the object of the
invention is to provide an apparatus for supplying a respiratory
gas and a humidifying apparatus which is provided for same, which
is robust and simple to handle and which can be configured in an
easy fashion according to respective requirements involved.
[0007] In accordance with the invention that object is attained by
an apparatus for supplying a respiratory gas, having one or more
features described below.
[0008] By virtue thereof, it is advantageously possible for a
humidifying apparatus to be coupled directly laterally to a
CPAP-unit easily and without the need for expert assembly
procedures, and without the CPAP-unit having to be lifted for that
purpose. In that case the lower support portions by way of which
the CPAP-unit is set up advantageously act directly as a guide
device which permits the humidifying apparatus to be easily pushed
to the CPAP-unit. If for example there is temporarily no need for a
humidifying apparatus or if the humidifying apparatus is to be
temporarily separated from the CPAP-unit for cleaning purposes, the
CPAP-unit can remain unchanged at the location at which it is set
up and the humidifying apparatus can simply be removed towards the
side, in particular by being pulled off.
[0009] In accordance with a particularly preferred embodiment of
the invention the connecting members are oriented substantially in
the joining direction. In particular the main passage cross-section
for the respiratory gas which is delivered by the blowing device is
advantageously formed by a tube connection, on to which can be
fitted a connecting portion which is provided on a humidifying
apparatus of correspondingly complementary configuration.
[0010] An embodiment of the invention which is particularly
advantageous from esthetic points of view and in regard to a
symmetrical structure for the CPAP-unit system is afforded if the
corresponding connecting members are provided in an end (front
side) of the unit. The surface portion of that end of the unit is
of a substantially complementary configuration to a portion of the
humidifying apparatus, which is adjacent in the joined
position.
[0011] An embodiment of the invention which is advantageous in
particular in regard to particularly reliable coupling of a
pressure measuring conduit is afforded if the connecting device has
said tube connection for conducting the respiratory gas
therethrough and a conduit portion which is arranged adjacent
thereto, for coupling a pressure-measuring conduit.
[0012] The tube connection for passing the respiratory gas
therethrough and the conduit portion for the pressure measuring
conduit, in accordance with a particularly preferred embodiment of
the invention, are arranged in an opening in such a way that they
do not project substantially beyond a main plane defined by the
front end face of the unit. That affords particularly effective
protection for these comparatively filigree CPAP-unit connecting
members.
[0013] In accordance with a particular aspect of the present
invention the connecting device, for connection of the humidifying
apparatus as required, includes electrical connecting members for
affording an electrical connection to the humidifying apparatus. By
way of those electrical connecting members it is advantageously
possible to supply voltage to a heating device of the humidifying
apparatus, without a corresponding voltage supply cable having to
be manually connected for that purpose to the humidifying
apparatus. The electrical connecting members can also be used for
the transmission of electrical signals, for example for the
transmission of a filling level signal or also for the transmission
of electrical signals which are supplied for example in the region
of the respiratory tube connecting device.
[0014] A particularly effective coupling for the CPAP-unit to the
humidifying apparatus which is intended for connection thereto is
achieved in accordance with the invention in that there is provided
a latching device which can be manually put into a release position
and which holds the humidifying apparatus in a joined position. By
virtue of that arrangement it is advantageously possible for the
humidifying apparatus to be designed in such a way as to save a
great deal of weight, without in that respect involving the risk
that it is by mistake pulled off the CPAP-unit by way of the
connected respiratory gas tube or hose and caused to fall off the
surface on which it is supported (for example an occasional
table).
[0015] In accordance with a particularly preferred embodiment of
the invention the CPAP-unit is designed in the bottom region in
such a way that the connecting members and in particular the
above-mentioned tube connection are arranged at a vertical
heightwise level which exactly corresponds to the heightwise level
of the connecting members provided on the humidifying
apparatus.
[0016] Advantageously, the connecting members provided on the
CPAP-unit and also those on the humidifying apparatus are
positioned in a vertical direction in such a way that, when the
CPAP-unit and the humidifying apparatus are set up on a
substantially flat support, the humidifying apparatus can be pushed
to the CPAP-unit, in which case the required orientation of those
two modules in the vertical direction is already achieved by virtue
of the surface on which they are standing. In order also to attain
sufficient centering of the two modules in the lateral direction,
centering aids are also provided in accordance with a particularly
preferred embodiment of the invention. In that respect, a
particularly robust centering aid is achieved if the inside wall of
the opening which receives the tube connection is matched to the
outside peripheral surface of the connecting projection provided on
the humidifying apparatus.
[0017] In regard to the humidifying apparatus the object set forth
hereinbefore is attained by a humidifying apparatus having one or
more of the features described below. Such a humidifying apparatus
can be coupled in a simple fashion to a suitable CPAP-unit, even by
a lay person, without expert assembly procedures or a connecting
tube or hose being required for that purpose. The CPAP-unit does
not have to be lifted for that purpose.
[0018] Advantageously there is provided a humidifier unit which can
be coupled to a base unit and which includes a cartridge-like
refilling module which can be removed and re-fitted. The refilling
module can be fixed in the humidifier unit by way of fixing
devices, for example a bayonet fixing device. The refilling module
can be sealed off in a portion-wise manner or completely in the
humidifier unit by sealing devices.
[0019] In the context of a CPAP-therapy, spontaneous respiration of
a patient is assisted by a respiratory gas under permanent
increased pressure being supplied to the patient. That increased
pressure affords pneumatic splinting of the upper respiratory
tracts, whereby it is possible to obviate any respiratory tract
obstructions which occur during a patient sleep phase. In the
treatment of sleep-related respiratory disturbances in that manner,
that increased-pressure artificial respiration usually extends over
the entire sleep phase of the patient. In regard to improved
physiological compatibility of that increased-pressure artificial
respiration it has proven to be advantageous to humidify the
respiratory gas which is fed to the patient. Usually,
humidification of the respiratory gas is effected by the
respiratory gas being passed over a water bath and in so doing
absorbing moisture. An amount of water of about 750 ml is usually
stored in that water bath. The water bath is preferably slightly
heated by means of a heating device. When using those conventional
humidifying apparatuses, it has been found that the absolute
moisture content of the respiratory gas, as viewed over the entire
sleep phase, is subject to in part considerable fluctuations.
[0020] To resolve that problem, in accordance with a particular
aspect of the present invention, there is described an apparatus,
which is simple to handle, for the humidification of a respiratory
gas, and a CPAP-unit which is intended for use therewith, by means
of which it is possible to achieve uniform humidification of the
respiratory gas. That is achieved by an apparatus for the
humidification of a respiratory gas comprising a liquid storage
space for storage of a liquid, a humidifying region for loading the
respiratory gas with the liquid by the respiratory gas coming into
contact in the humidifying region with the liquid, a respiratory
gas supply device for supplying the respiratory gas to the
humidifying region, and a respiratory gas withdrawal device for
withdrawal of the humidified respiratory gas from the humidifying
region, wherein there is provided a partial-amount discharge device
for passing only a partial amount of the liquid stored in the
liquid storage space into the humidifying region.
[0021] That arrangement makes it advantageously possible to provide
a respiratory gas which is humidified according to the respective
requirements involved, just a short time after the unit is brought
into operation. With a desired heating effect for the humidifying
medium, that can be achieved quickly and with a comparatively low
level of power draw. As a result of the low level of power draw of
the heating device the humidifying apparatus according to the
invention is particularly suitable for operation independently of a
mains network, by means of a battery or an accumulator.
[0022] In accordance with a particularly preferred embodiment of
the invention the humidifying region is spatially separated from
the liquid storage space. In order for supplying the humidifying
medium from the liquid storage space, according to the respective
requirements involved, there is preferably provided a fluid conduit
device by way of which the humidifying region is in communication
with the liquid storage space.
[0023] Provided between the humidifying region and the liquid
storage space, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the
invention, is a separating wall which separates the humidifying
region from the liquid storage space. The fluid conduit device is
preferably arranged in such a way that it passes through the
separating wall.
[0024] An embodiment of the invention which is advantageous in
terms of particularly advantageous handleability and reliable
filling of the humidifying region is afforded if the liquid storage
space is arranged above the humidifying region in the position of
use of the apparatus. By virtue of that arrangement, it is possible
for the humidifying medium to be passed into the humidifying region
as a result of the force of gravity acting thereon. The discharge
of a partial amount of the liquid into the humidifying region is
advantageously effected in dependence on a level of liquid in the
humidifying region. In that way it is possible for a given minimum
amount of humidifying liquid to be kept permanently available in
the humidifying region.
[0025] The filling level in the humidifying region is
advantageously quantitatively controlled by the introduction of air
into the liquid storage space, for the discharge of a partial
amount of the liquid out of the liquid storage space. For that
purpose, in accordance with a particularly preferred embodiment,
the air for introduction into the liquid storage space is drawn in
by way of the humidifying region.
[0026] Control of the supply of air is preferably effected by the
provision of a metering or quantitative control conduit device
which extends between the liquid storage space and the humidifying
region, wherein the conduit device has a first mouth opening which
is at the height of the level of liquid in the humidifying region
and a second mouth opening which opens into the liquid storage
space into a region above the level of liquid in the storage space.
In that situation the first mouth opening is covered by the liquid
disposed in the humidifying region until the level of liquid falls
below the first mouth opening. As soon as the first mouth opening
is cleared air can then flow into the liquid storage space by way
of the quantitative control conduit device. As the result of that
make-up flow of air, a small amount of fluid again passes into the
humidifying region and the level of the liquid in the humidifying
region rises until the first mouth opening is again below the level
of the liquid.
[0027] The quantitative control conduit device is advantageously
formed by a tube conduit which passes through the separating wall
in a vertical direction.
[0028] The liquid is transferred from the liquid storage space into
the humidifying region through a tube projection portion which
extends from the separating wall into a region below the first
mouth opening of the quantitative control conduit device or the
air-introduction conduit device.
[0029] An embodiment of the humidifier which is robust and
advantageous in terms of manufacture from production-engineering
points of view is afforded by the separating wall and the two fluid
conduit devices being of an integral nature.
[0030] The liquid storage space is preferably formed by a
cup-shaped housing portion. That housing portion is preferably
formed from a transparent or translucent material. Making the
housing portion from a plastic material advantageously provides for
protection from splintering and a still further reduction in the
level of heat losses.
[0031] In accordance with a particularly preferred embodiment of
the invention the humidifying region is formed in a trough or vat
element. Particularly effective humidification of the respiration
gas, with a structure which is still compact, can advantageously be
achieved by the provision of air conduit devices which are arranged
in such a way that air flows through the trough element
substantially transversely or along a spiral path. That provides
intensive contact of the respiratory gas with the partial amount of
liquid accommodated in the humidifying region.
[0032] Particularly intensive humidification of the respiratory gas
can be achieved by the provision of a heating device for heating
the partial amount of liquid stored in the humidifying region. The
heating device is preferably operated electrically, for example by
a resistance heating means. The resistance heating means is
preferably formed by a thin foil-like element thermally coupled to
a bottom region of the trough element. For that purpose preferably
the trough element has a bottom portion which is formed from a
material of high thermal conductivity, in particular metal. As an
alternative thereto or also in combination therewith, it is also
possible for the heating device to be integrated directly into a
wall portion, in particular a bottom portion, of the humidifying
region.
[0033] Advantageously the integral member forming the separating
wall is fitted in sealing relationship into the trough element by
way of a first peripheral sealing device. The integral member
preferably also includes a second peripheral sealing device which
closes the liquid storage space in sealing relationship, in
conjunction with the separating wall. The humidifying unit which is
formed in that way can be opened for the refilling procedure by the
trough element being removed from the housing portion which forms
the liquid storage space.
[0034] In accordance with a particularly preferred embodiment of
the invention, to receive the described humidifying unit there is
provided a support or installation housing into which at least the
trough element can be fitted. Advantageously the trough element or
the support housing is provided with a respiration tube connecting
device for the connection of a respiration tube. In accordance with
a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention there is
provided a secondary or duplicate tube connecting device in the
region of the respiration tube connecting device. By way of a
secondary tube of preferably small diameter, which can be connected
to the secondary tube connecting device, it is possible to
implement pressure measurement in a region following the
humidifying apparatus, for example in the region of a CO.sub.2
exchange valve. The secondary tube connecting device is preferably
arranged immediately beside a respiratory tube connecting
projection. Advantageously the connecting structure provided on the
humidifying apparatus for the respiration tube and preferably also
for the secondary tube and in particular the pressure-measuring
tube corresponds in respect of its constitution to the connecting
structure correspondingly provided on a CPAP-unit. That
advantageously provides for compatibility of the tube connections
both with the CPAP-unit and also with the humidifying device which
is possibly connected therebetween.
[0035] In that respect, a robust embodiment which is advantageous
from the points of view of production engineering is afforded if
the secondary tube connecting device and the respiration tube
connecting device are formed integrally with the trough element or
with the support housing.
[0036] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention the
humidifying apparatus has connecting members which permit direct
docking of the humidifying apparatus to a corresponding
CPAP-unit.
[0037] For that purpose in accordance with a particularly preferred
embodiment of the invention the CPAP-unit and the humidifying
apparatus are so designed that they can be reliably and securely
coupled. That arrangement preferably also entails coupling of the
duplicate or secondary tube connecting device provided on the
humidifying apparatus, to a connecting device provided on the
CPAP-unit.
[0038] Independently of the measures described hereinbefore or also
advantageously in combination therewith, the above-identified
object in accordance with the invention is also attained by an
apparatus for humidifying a respiratory gas comprising a liquid
storage space for storing a liquid, a humidifying region for
loading the respiratory gas with the liquid by the respiratory gas
coming into contact in the humidifying region with the liquid, a
respiratory gas supply device for supplying the respiratory gas to
the humidifying region and a respiratory gas withdrawal device for
withdrawal of the humidified respiratory gas from the humidifying
region, wherein the liquid storage space is formed by a housing
portion which is coupled to a trough element to form the
humidifying region and there is provided a support or installation
housing portion for receiving a unit formed by the housing portion
and the trough element.
[0039] In terms of a CPAP-unit the object as set forth in the
opening part of this specification is attained by a CPAP-unit
comprising an outer housing, a conveyor device accommodated in the
outer housing for conveying a respiratory gas to a respiratory gas
outlet connection, a pressure-detection device, a control device
for controlling the conveyor device in dependence on the detected
pressure and a pressure-measuring connection for the connection of
a pressure-detection conduit, wherein the respiratory gas outlet
connection and the pressure-measuring connection are of a
complementary configuration to connecting members provided on the
humidifier side.
[0040] That advantageously affords a CPAP-system of a modular
structure, which can be easily and quickly configured according to
the respective requirements involved, even by a lay person. The
CPAP-unit system according to the invention is also distinguished,
in a completely dismantled condition, by a high level of complexity
and in addition can be transported in the form of a stable
unit.
[0041] The invention further concerns a respiration tube connecting
device for coupling a respiration tube formed from a flexible
material to a CPAP-unit and a respiration tube provided with a
corresponding connecting device.
[0042] Respiration tubes of that kind are used in particular in the
therapy of sleep-related respiration disturbances. In that
situation the respiratory gas is supplied to a patient under a
predetermined increased pressure which possibly alternates during a
respiration cycle, to provide for a pneumatic splinting effect for
the upper respiratory tracts.
[0043] To control the respiratory gas pressure, it is known to
detect by way of a pressure-measuring tube the pressure in the
region of a respiratory mask or in a region which is preferably
spaced therefrom by between about 10 and 15 times the inside
diameter of the respiratory gas tube. That pressure-measuring tube
is usually inserted into the respiration tube.
[0044] The respiration tube can be fitted directly or by way of an
elastic connecting plug sleeve on to a connecting projection
provided on a CPAP-unit. In that case the pressure-measuring tube
is either fitted by plugging engagement on to a tube portion
provided in coaxial relationship in the interior of the connecting
projection or it is passed out of same by way of a small hole
provided in the respiration tube and fitted in plugging engagement
separately on to a corresponding pressure-detection connecting
projection provided on the CPAP-unit. The known respiration tube
connecting structures with integrated connecting members for a
pressure-measuring tube involve the problem of a comparatively high
level of respiratory resistance and difficulties in cleaning.
Systems with a pressure-measuring tube which is passed freely out
of same suffer from the problem that the connection of the
pressure-measuring tube is forgotten under some circumstances so
that this can result in an unacceptably high rise in pressure in
terms of the respiratory gas feed.
[0045] Having regard to those circumstances and in accordance with
a further concept of a way of attaining the object of the
invention, there is provided a robust respiration tube system which
is easy to handle and which is distinguished by involving a
comparatively low level of respiratory resistance and with which
correct coupling of the respiration tube to a CPAP-unit is
guaranteed even without particular attention being paid.
[0046] In accordance with the invention that is attained by a
respiration tube connecting apparatus having a base body, a
respiratory gas passage duct formed in the base body, and a
respiration tube connection portion for receiving an end portion of
a respiration tube, which is distinguished in that provided in the
base body in a region which is radially displaced with respect to
the center of the respiratory gas passage duct is an additional
coupling portion for coupling of an additional hose conduit to a
complementary connecting structure provided on a respiratory gas
source.
[0047] The base body is preferably formed from an elastomer
material, whereby it is possible to provide for particularly
reliable sealing integrity with the complementary connecting
structure and adequate fixing of the plug connection.
[0048] The above-mentioned tube conduit connected to the additional
coupling portion generally involves a pressure-measuring conduit.
That additional tube conduit however may also be in the form of an
analysis conduit for taking a respiratory gas sample or in the form
of a flushing conduit for the exchange of consumed respiratory gas
or also in the form of a feed conduit for example for oxygen.
[0049] In accordance with a particularly preferred embodiment of
the invention the passage cross-section of the respiratory gas
passage duct substantially corresponds to the passage cross-section
of the respiration tube. That advantageously ensures that the
connecting plug does not contribute to a considerable degree to an
increase in respiratory resistance.
[0050] The respiratory gas passage duct is preferably of a
substantially circular cross-section and can be fitted with an easy
press fit on to a connecting projection provided at the unit.
Preferably the respiratory gas passage duct is of such a
configuration, in its region which can be pushed on to the
connecting projection, that the inside wall of the connecting
projection adjoins substantially steplessly the inside wall of the
following region of the respiratory gas passage duct.
[0051] The additional coupling portion is preferably formed by a
cylindrical bore portion which is provided in the base body and
which extends substantially parallel to the longitudinal center
line of the respiratory gas passage duct. The inside diameter of
the respiratory gas passage duct is preferably in the region of
between 15 and 24 mm, preferably 19 mm--the inside diameter of the
additional coupling portion is in the region of between 3 and 8 mm,
preferably being 4 mm.
[0052] An embodiment of the invention which is particularly
advantageous in terms of handling is preferably afforded if
extending in the interior of the base body is a duct portion which
leads from the additional coupling portion into the respiratory gas
passage duct. The duct portion is preferably of a cross-section
which is sufficient to receive the additional tube conduit.
[0053] Advantageously the additional tube conduit is inserted into
the duct portion in sealing relationship, preferably being secured
therein by adhesive. The additional tube conduit is preferably
passed through the duct portion as far as a front end of the base
body and introduced into the coupling portion.
[0054] A respiration tube fixing portion is advantageously formed
in a region which is remote from the front end of the base body,
wherein the respiration tube is fixed in the respiration tube
fixing portion in sealing relationship, in particular being secured
therein by adhesive or vulcanisation. As an alternative thereto or
also in combination with those measures, it is also possible to
provide in the respiration tube fixing portion a zone with a female
screwthread, which is complementary in shape to the outside
peripheral surface of a respiration tube which has a spiral
insert.
[0055] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention,
towards the respiration tube, the inside region of the respiratory
gas passage duct is also of such a configuration as to provide a
substantially stepless transition into the respiration tube. That
also achieves an effective reduction in respiratory resistance.
[0056] A particularly secure and load-bearing coupling between the
respiration tube and the connecting plug structure is achieved by
the base portion being injection-molded to the respiration tube
and/or the additional tube conduit. The base body is preferably
formed from an in particular transparent or translucent elastomer
material, in particular silicone rubber.
[0057] The described connecting structure advantageously provides a
respiration tube for a CPAP-unit, with a tube body which is formed
from a flexible material, a pressure-measuring tube which is guided
in the tube body, and a connecting plug structure provided at the
end of the tube body, wherein the connecting plug structure is
formed from an elastomer material and provided in the connecting
plug structure is a duct portion by way of which the
pressure-measuring tube is passed out of a respiratory gas conduit
region into a coupling portion which is disposed laterally beside a
respiratory gas conduit portion.
[0058] The region of the connecting plug structure which
accommodates the coupling portion preferably projects in a
nose-like configuration radially beyond an outside peripheral
surface of the respiration tube connecting portion, whereby it is
possible to achieve particularly effective pre-positioning of the
plug.
[0059] For the treatment of sleep-related respiratory disturbances
it is known to feed a patient with a respiratory gas which is
optionally humidified, under a predetermined increased pressure. In
that respect, in most cases the provision of the respiratory gas
under an increased pressure is effected by way of blowers which are
regulated in respect of their rotary speed. Those blowers are
usually accommodated in a preferably sound-insulated housing
portion and are connected to a conduit system which leads to a
humidifying device or directly to a coupling portion for the
connection of a respiration tube. That coupling portion is
generally in the form of a short tube connecting projection portion
on to which the respiration tube can be fitted in sealing
relationship.
[0060] Particularly in the case of CPAP-units for affording
comparatively high respiratory gas pressure levels, it has been
found to be advantageous to detect the instantaneous pressure in
the respiration tube or within a respiration mask. That purpose is
usually implemented by using a pressure-measuring tube, by way of
which the pressure to be monitored is taken off at a defined
measuring location and fed to a pressure transducer which for
example is integrated into the CPAP-unit. In that case the
pressure-measuring tube is fitted in sealing relationship on to a
connecting projection, in a similar manner to the respiration tube.
Compatibility problems frequently arise here, having regard to the
large number of widely used respiration tube, pressure-measuring
tube and humidifying systems.
[0061] In accordance with a further concept of the invention that
is attained by a connecting structural component for a CPAP-unit
having a tubular respiration gas conduction device whose passage
cross-section substantially corresponds to the passage
cross-section of a respiration tube provided for connection
thereto, and a pressure-measuring tube connecting device for the
connection of a pressure-measuring tube, wherein the respiration
gas conduction device and the pressure-measuring connecting device
are arranged in mutually juxtaposed relationship.
[0062] It is advantageously possible in that way for a conventional
respiration tube, a conventional pressure-measuring tube or also a
respiration tube with a combination plug assembly, to be connected
to the correspondingly designed CPAP-unit.
[0063] The respiratory gas conduction device is preferably formed
by a tube connecting projection whose inside diameter substantially
corresponds to the inside diameter of a respiration tube. The
pressure-measuring tube connecting device is also preferably formed
by a tube connecting projection. Particularly effective protection
for the two tube connecting projections is afforded by the two tube
connecting projections being arranged in sunk relationship in an
opening.
[0064] A particularly robust embodiment of the invention which is
advantageous from production-engineering points of view is afforded
if the pressure-measuring tube connecting device and the
respiratory gas conduction device are of an integral
construction.
[0065] In accordance with a particular aspect of the present
invention the connecting, structural component is provided with a
plate portion, wherein the respiratory gas conduction device passes
through the plate portion. That plate portion preferably forms a
labyrinth cover means coated with a sound-insulating soft material.
That soft material advantageously acts at the same time as a
sealing means between adjacent portions of the labyrinth.
[0066] A further embodiment of the invention which is advantageous
from production-engineering points of view is afforded if both tube
connecting projections extend substantially perpendicularly from
the plate portion. The connecting structural component in that case
can be in a particularly advantageous manner in the form of a
plastic material injection molding with tube portions which are
formed integrally, that is to say in one piece, on the plate
portion.
[0067] The plate portion is advantageously provided with a sealing
device for fitting the structural component on to a labyrinth
casing in sealing relationship. A plug connecting device is
advantageously provided for fixing the connecting structural
component, in particular for fixing the structural component to a
bottom structure of a CPAP-unit.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0068] Further details and features of the invention will be
apparent from the description hereinafter of a preferred embodiment
of the invention with reference to the drawing in which:
[0069] FIG. 1 shows an assembly comprising a CPAP-unit and a
humidifying apparatus which can be laterally coupled directly to
the front or end thereof,
[0070] FIG. 2 is a simplified sectional view to explain the modular
structure of the CPAP-assembly shown in FIG. 1,
[0071] FIG. 3 is a simplified view in longitudinal section through
a humidifying apparatus according to the invention,
[0072] FIG. 4 is a simplified view in section taken perpendicular
to the section line A-A in FIG. 3,
[0073] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the humidifying apparatus of
FIGS. 3 and 4 viewing on to the plug connecting arrangements
provided for connection to a CPAP-unit,
[0074] FIG. 6a is a perspective view of a CPAP-unit with a
connecting structure which is complementary to the humidifying
apparatus,
[0075] FIG. 6b shows a perspective view of the humidifying
apparatus of FIG. 5 but viewing on to the connecting structures at
the respiration tube side,
[0076] FIG. 7 is a simplified view in axial section through an end
portion of a respiration tube and associated connecting device,
[0077] FIG. 8a is a front view of the base body of the connecting
device,
[0078] FIG. 8b is a side view of the respiration tube with
connecting device mounted thereto,
[0079] FIG. 9 is a simplified view in section to illustrate a
suitable complementary connecting structure on the unit,
[0080] FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of a structural component
in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention, and
[0081] FIGS. 11a, 11b, 11c show three different compatible
connecting options.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0082] The apparatus arrangement shown in FIG. 1 includes a
CPAP-unit here generally identified by reference numeral 1 and a
humidifying apparatus 2 which can be connected thereto in modular
relationship. Here the CPAP-unit 1 has a substantially block-shaped
or box-shaped housing 3 which has a front end face 4, two side
faces 5, 6 which are arranged in pairs in mutually opposite
relationship and which are in substantially parallel relationship
with each other, and a rear side 7 which is arranged in the
rearward region of the housing 3 in relation to the front end face
4, as well as an upper top face 8. Provided in the region of the
front end face 4 is a connecting device 9 which, in the embodiment
illustrated here, has a respiratory gas connecting portion 10, a
pressure-measuring tube connecting portion 11 and an electrical
connecting device 12. The respiratory gas connecting portion 10 and
the pressure-measuring tube connecting portion 11 are arranged
recessed substantially completely in an opening 13 which is only
indicated here. The contact elements of an electrical connecting
device 12 are also accommodated in an opening or recess so that
those connecting members also do not project or do not project
substantially beyond a surface defined by the front end face 4.
[0083] In the embodiment illustrated here the front end face 4 is
of a slightly curved configuration, thereby affording particularly
effective assistance in terms of centering the humidifying
apparatus 2. The respiratory gas connecting portion 10 and the
pressure-measuring tube connecting portion 11 are oriented in such
a way that they extend substantially parallel to the joining
direction which is indicated in simplified form by the arrow
14.
[0084] In its bottom region the CPAP-unit 1 has support or erection
members (here support feet 15) which are such that the connecting
members of the connecting device 9 are held at a predetermined
vertical heightwise level which is matched precisely to the
corresponding heightwise level of the connecting members of the
humidifying apparatus 2.
[0085] The humidifying apparatus 2 includes a base body 16 and a
liquid storage container 17 which is accommodated therein. The
liquid storage container 17 can be removed from the base housing 16
for example for refilling it with humidifying liquid. The base
housing has a connecting surface portion 18 which is of a
correspondingly complementary configuration to the front end face 4
of the CPAP-unit 1 and in which are disposed the connecting members
described in greater detail hereinafter with reference to FIG.
2.
[0086] On a side which is in opposite relationship to the
connecting surface portion 18 the base housing 16 is again provided
with connecting members which in terms of their structure and their
arrangement substantially correspond to the connecting device 9
which has already been described with reference to the CPAP-unit 1.
In that way it is then possible for the hose connecting plug
provided for example for connection to the CPAP-unit 1 also to be
connected directly to the humidifying apparatus 2. In that case
connection of the pressure-measuring tube is achieved at the same
time.
[0087] The humidifying apparatus 2 also has support feet 20 which
provide that the connecting members on the humidifying apparatus in
the region of the connecting surface portion 18 are held at a
vertical heightwise level which corresponds to that of the
connecting device 9.
[0088] As can be clearly seen from FIG. 2 the connecting device 9
on the CPAP-unit 1 is of a complementary configuration to the
connecting device 21 on the humidifying apparatus 2. As indicated
by the arrows 22 the two connecting devices 9 and 21 can be moved
into the joined position in relation to each other. Particularly
effective pre-positioning of the connecting members, in particular
the respiratory gas connecting portion 10 and the corresponding
counterpart portion 23, is achieved in this embodiment by the
counterpart portion 23 also being centered by the inside wall 24 of
the opening 13. The respiratory gas connecting portion 10 and the
counterpart portion 23 on the humidifying apparatus 2 are disposed
at exactly the same vertical heightwise level. Provided on the
output side of the humidifying apparatus is a connecting structure
which in terms of its essential dimensions corresponds to the
connecting structure provided on the CPAP-unit. The respiration
tube connecting plug 25 illustrated here can thus be coupled if
required directly to the CPAP-unit 1 or to the humidifying
apparatus 2. By virtue of a pressure-measuring connecting conduit
which is indicated into the humidifying apparatus, a communication
is afforded between the pressure-measuring tube 26 and the
pressure-measuring tube connecting portion 11, when the respiration
tube connecting plug 25 is connected to the humidifying apparatus
2. The CPAP-apparatus arrangement described hereinbefore with
reference to FIGS. 1 and 2 can be used as described in the
following example of use.
[0089] It is firstly assumed that the CPAP-unit 1 is already set up
on a table top, and now the respiratory gas being conveyed by the
CPAP-unit 1 is to be humidified.
[0090] For that purpose, as indicated in FIG. 1, the humidifying
apparatus according to the invention is also set up on the table
top and is fitted on to the CPAP-unit in a joining direction which
is parallel to the surface of the table and substantially
perpendicular to the front end face of the CPAP-unit 1. When that
is done, the connecting devices 9 and 21 which are provided on the
CPAP-unit 1 and the humidifying apparatus 2 come together in the
joining position. In addition, a voltage supply to a heating device
provided on the humidifying apparatus 1 is also afforded by way of
an electrical connecting device 12 which is only shown in FIG. 1.
As soon as the two connecting devices 9, 21 have moved completely
into the joined position, the two modules are fixed in that joined
position by a latching device (not shown) so that the humidifying
apparatus 2 is reliably coupled to the CPAP-unit. The respiratory
gas tube which is originally connected directly to the CPAP-unit 1
and which has an integrated pressure-measuring conduit can be
connected directly to the humidifying apparatus by way of the
respiratory gas connecting plug identified by reference numeral 25
in FIG. 2. That also affords a corresponding coupling between the
pressure-measuring tube 26 and the pressure-measuring tube
connecting portion 11 provided on the CPAP-unit 1.
[0091] For the purposes of introducing humidifying water into the
liquid storage container 17, the latter is removed from the base
housing 16 of the humidifying apparatus. After the liquid storage
container is filled it can be fitted into the base housing 16
again. The CPAP-apparatus system formed from two modules which can
be laterally coupled, with a refilling unit which can be removed
cartridge-like, is now ready for operation.
[0092] The view in FIG. 3 shows a longitudinal section through an
apparatus for humidifying a respiratory gas (referred to
hereinafter as the humidifying apparatus), in accordance with a
preferred embodiment of the invention. Here, the illustrated
embodiment of the humidifying apparatus includes a refilling unit
203 which is formed from a trough element 201 and a cup portion 202
coupled thereto and which can be easily removed from a support or
installation housing 204 which here is of a multi-part nature.
[0093] The trough element 201 and the cup portion 202 are coupled
together in sealing relationship. The trough element 201 and the
cup portion 202 are coupled by way of a sealing structure 206
which, in the embodiment illustrated here, has a first sealing ring
207 and a second sealing ring 208. The two sealing rings 207 and
208 are accommodated in peripheral grooves provided in a separating
element 209. The separating element 209 has a separating wall 205
which is here of an integral nature. The separating wall 205
separates the internal region of the cup portion 202 from the
internal region of the trough element 201.
[0094] Formed in the cup portion 202, in conjunction with the
separating wall 205, is a liquid storage space 210 in which
initially the predominant part of the liquid provided for
humidifying the respiratory gas is stored. Formed in the trough
element 201 arranged beneath the cup portion 202 is a separate
humidifying region in which only a partial amount of the
humidifying liquid is accommodated. The level a of the liquid
accommodated in the trough element 201 is maintained at a
predetermined filling height by way of a quantitative control
device. In the course of gradual consumption of the fluid in the
trough element 201, fluid is supplied as a make-up flow
successively or continuously from the liquid storage space 210. A
preferred embodiment of a quantitative control device which is
provided for that purpose will be described in detail hereinafter
with reference to FIG. 3.
[0095] Here the trough element 201 is of a substantially shell-like
nature and has a respiratory gas feed opening 211 and a respiratory
gas discharge opening 212. The respiratory gas which is conveyed by
a CPAP-unit (not shown here) can flow into the trough element 201
by way of the respiratory gas feed opening 211, according to the
respiration activity of a patient. By means of a direction-changing
device 213 which is only shown here in simplified form the feed
flow of respiratory gas is directed on to the liquid in the trough
element 201. In that situation the respiratory gas supplied thereto
is enriched with moisture. The correspondingly humidified
respiratory gas can then flow away, by way of the respiratory gas
discharge opening 212.
[0096] In the embodiment illustrated here the trough element 201
can be heated by means of a heating device 214. The heating device
214 comprises a heating element which is arranged in the support
housing 204 in such a way that the bottom region of the trough
element 201 can come into intimate contact therewith. In order to
increase the transmission of heat between the fluid in the trough
element 201 and the heating device 214 the bottom region 215 of the
trough element 201 is formed from a material of high thermal
conductivity, for example metal. In the last-mentioned embodiment
the above-mentioned bottom region 215 can be formed for example by
the insert molding method in the actual main body of the trough
element 201. The trough element 201 is of such a configuration that
it can be inserted as an easy fit in self-positioning relationship
into the support housing 204. In that case the respiratory gas feed
opening 211 and the respiratory gas discharge opening are aligned
with conduits or openings provided in correspondingly complementary
manner in the support housing 204.
[0097] In the region adjacent to the respiratory gas feed opening
211 the support housing 204 is provided with a connecting portion
216 which, in the embodiment illustrated here, can be fitted
directly on to a connecting portion of a CPAP-unit, which is of a
correspondingly complementary configuration. Provided in the
immediate proximity of the connecting portion 216 is a further
connecting portion 217 which can be coupled to a pressure-detecting
connection provided on a CPAP-unit. The connecting portion 217
forms part of a conduit system which ultimately communicates with
the pressure-measuring connecting portion 218 provided on an
opposite side of the humidifying apparatus. In particular a
pressure-measuring tube can be connected to that pressure-measuring
connection 218 for detecting the pressure in the region of the
respiration hose, a gas change valve or possibly also directly in
the mask region.
[0098] Beneath the pressure-measuring connecting portion 218 the
support housing 204 is provided with a respiration tube connecting
portion 219. The tube connecting members formed at the outlet side
on the humidifying apparatus are identical to that of a CPAP-unit,
in such a way that corresponding connecting tubes or hoses can be
optionally connected either directly to the CPAP-unit or if
necessary, when using the humidifying apparatus, only to the outlet
side of the humidifying apparatus 2. Provided beneath the
connecting portion identified by reference numeral 216 is a plug
connecting device (not shown here) by way of which it is possible
to make an electrical connection between the heating device 214 and
a voltage supply device provided on the CPAP-unit. Optionally it is
also possible for electrical signals, for example
pressure-measuring signals, to be transmitted by way of that plug
connecting device.
[0099] The support housing 204 is further provided with a fixing
device 220, by way of which the humidifying apparatus can be
mechanically comparatively rigidly coupled to a CPAP-unit.
[0100] A preferred embodiment of a quantitative control device for
quantitative metering of the amount of fluid in the trough element
201 will be described hereinafter with reference to FIG. 4. The
liquid storage space 210 and the humidifying region formed in the
trough element 201 are separated from each other by way of the
separating wall 205. The fluid stored in the liquid storage space
210 can be passed if required into the humidifying region by way of
a fluid conduit device 221. In this case control of the make-up
flow of fluid is implemented by control of the make-up introduction
of air into the liquid storage space. In the embodiment illustrated
here regulation of the make-up introduction of air is effected by
way of a quantitative control conduit device 222 which, similarly
to the above-mentioned fluid conduit device 221, passes vertically
through the separating wall 205. The quantitative control conduit
device 222 has a first mouth opening 223 and a second mouth opening
224. The first mouth opening 223 is arranged at the height of the
desired or reference level a. As long as the first mouth opening
223 is closed by the fluid in the trough element 201, no make-up
flow of air can pass into the liquid storage space 210 so that in
turn no fluid can flow away out of the liquid storage space 210 by
way of the fluid conduit device 221. As soon as the level a falls
below the level of the first mouth opening, a make-up flow of air
can pass into the liquid storage space, whereby in turn fluid can
pass out of the liquid storage space 210 into the trough element
201 or the separate humidifying region formed therein. The fluid
conduit device 221 has a discharge mouth opening 225 which is
somewhat below the reference level identified here by the letters
a.
[0101] In the embodiment illustrated here the fluid conduit device
221, the quantitative control conduit device 222 and the separating
wall 205 are formed by an integral member. For the purposes of
introducing the liquid into the liquid storage space, it is
possible for that integral member to be withdrawn from the cup
portion 202. The cup portion 202 can optionally also be provided
with a corresponding refilling opening which can be sealingly
closed. The cup portion 202, the integral member having the
separating wall and the trough element can each be cleaned
separately. The quantitative control conduit device 222 is of such
a design configuration that the second mouth opening 224 provided
thereon is above the maximum filling level of the liquid storage
space 210.
[0102] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the humidifying apparatus
described hereinbefore with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4. The cup
portion which is preferably formed from a transparent material can
be seen here in the form of a bowl of substantially cylindrical
configuration. That bowl is fitted in a receiving portion which is
also cylindrical and which is formed in the support housing 204. In
the region of the cup portion 202 the support housing 204 is of
such a design configuration that the cup portion can be gripped
with one hand. The connecting portion 217 and the
pressure-measuring connecting portion 218 which have already been
described with reference to FIG. 3 are provided in the region of
the rear side 226 of the humidifying apparatus. Provided beneath
those connecting portions is the fixing device which is identified
by reference 220 in FIG. 3 and which can provide particularly rigid
coupling of the humidifying apparatus to a corresponding CPAP-unit.
Provided in a receiving recess beneath the connecting portion 216
is an electrical plug connecting arrangement (not shown here) for
providing an electrical connection for the heating device to the
associated CPAP-unit.
[0103] Provided in the lateral region of the outer housing are
switch members 227, by way of which it is possible to set on the
one hand the temperature of the liquid in the trough element 201
and the switch-on time for the humidifying apparatus.
[0104] The rear side 226 of the humidifying apparatus is of a
configuration corresponding to the front side of a CPAP-unit
described hereinafter with reference to FIG. 6a so that the
humidifying apparatus can be connected in a modular manner
virtually without any intermediate space to the CPAP-unit.
[0105] The CPAP-unit shown in FIG. 6a has a substantially cuboidal
housing, in the upper region of which is provided a gripping
arrangement 330, by way of which the CPAP-unit can be gripped in an
ergonomically advantageous manner. Provided in a front end region
are connecting members 331, for the connection of at least one
respiration tube or hose.
[0106] The illustrated embodiment has a respiration hose connecting
projection 332 and a pressure-measuring tube connecting projection
333. The arrangement of those connecting members substantially
corresponds to the arrangement of the connecting members 216 and
217 described with reference to FIG. 3. The connecting members 231
are further of such a configuration that the connecting members
216, 217 on the humidifying apparatus (FIG. 3) can be directly
fitted on or fitted in. Also provided in the bottom region of the
CPAP-unit are engagement structures which can be brought into
engagement with engagement portions of a complementary
configuration, on the humidifying apparatus. The connecting members
331 are here arranged in recessed relationship in such a way that
they do not project beyond an outside surface and in particular a
front surface of the housing.
[0107] FIG. 6b shows the humidifying apparatus described
hereinbefore with reference to FIGS. 3, 4 and 5, viewing on to the
front region thereof. The connecting portions 216 and 217 are
arranged in recessed relationship, similarly as also in regard to
the CPAP-unit. The connecting portions are surrounded by a
plug-receiving space 234 into which can be inserted a plug
preferably formed from a soft material, in particular silicone
rubber.
[0108] The plug-receiving space 234 is preferably of such a nature
that a corresponding plug slides both on the respective projection
216, 217 and also along the wall of the plug-receiving space
234.
[0109] The invention is not limited to the embodiments by way of
example described hereinbefore. For example it is also possible for
the described humidifying apparatus to be integrated directly into
a corresponding CPAP-unit. It is also possible to fit into the
support housing which can be docked in a simple fashion to a
CPAP-unit, refilling units which deviate in respect of their
structure and the humidifying principle involved, from the
described humidifying apparatus. It is also possible for the trough
element of the humidifying unit to be so designed that it can be
connected directly to the CPAP-unit, omitting the support or
installation housing. The described humidifying apparatus can also
be connected to a respiratory gas source, with the interposition of
a hose conduit. The refilling unit can also be arranged in the form
of a substantially trough-like unit under the CPAP-unit.
[0110] The respiration tube or hose 301 shown in FIG. 7 is provided
in its end region with a connecting device 302 which here has a
base body 303 formed from an elastomer material, in particular
silicone rubber, with two coupling portions 304, 305 formed
therein.
[0111] The two coupling portions 304, 305 are formed integrally by
mutually parallel tube zones which are of circular cross-section.
The inside diameter of the respective tube zone is slightly smaller
than the outside diameter of the connecting projections which pass
into the two tube zones when the plug is connected thereto and in
that case is slightly enlarged.
[0112] Formed in the region of the base body, which is towards the
hose or tube, is a fixing portion 306 in which the respiration tube
301 is fixed by way of a ring element 307. The ring element 307 is
here also formed from an elastomer material and is secured by
adhesive to the outside surface of the respiration tube.
[0113] An additional tube--here a pressure-measuring tube 308--is
guided in the interior of the respiration tube 301. The
pressure-measuring tube 308 opens into the coupling portion 305 by
way of a passage duct 309 formed in the base body 303. The
pressure-measuring tube 308 is secured by adhesive or vulcanisation
in the base body 303. The passage duct 309 is of such a
configuration that the pressure-measuring tube 308 is only slightly
curved. The angle .alpha. between the longitudinal center line of
the coupling portion 304 and the longitudinal center line of the
passage duct 309 is preferably less than 35.degree..
[0114] The transition of the inside wall of the pressure-measuring
tube 309 into the coupling portion 305 is effected here
substantially steplessly. A corresponding shoulder 310 is provided
at the end of the passage duct 309, for that purpose.
[0115] The respiratory gas conduit region 311 formed in the base
body 303 in this case also forms a substantially stepless
transition into the inner region of the respiration tube 301.
[0116] With suitable elasticity of the tubes 301, 308, it is
possible for them to be passed to the end face 312 of the base body
303 so that the coupling members on the unit side can pass directly
into the tubes 301, 308.
[0117] The external configuration of the base body shown in FIG. 7
will be described in still greater detail with reference to FIGS.
8a and 8b. As can be clearly seen in particular from FIG. 8a, the
coupling portion intended for the connection of the additional tube
is arranged at a radial spacing from the respiratory gas conduit
coupling portion 304 in a region 314 of the base body 303, which
projects radially outwardly in a nose-like configuration. That
provides for effective preliminary positioning of the base body in
a recess provided in the unit.
[0118] That region which extends radially outwardly in a nose-like
configuration decreases continuously towards the end of the base
body 1, which is towards the respiration tube. Provided in the
region of the end towards the tube is a peripheral bead or ridge
315, by way of which a flow of forces between the hose and the plug
structure, which is advantageous from mechanical points of view, is
achieved.
[0119] FIG. 9, for explanatory purposes, shows a preferred
embodiment of a connecting structure on the unit, which connecting
structure is of a substantially complementary configuration to the
coupling portions 304, 305 provided in the base body 303 of the
plug.
[0120] The projection portion which is identified here by reference
316 passes into the coupling portion 304 in the joined position of
the assembly. The projection portion identified by reference
numeral 317 comes into engagement with the coupling portion in the
joined position. The two projection portions 316, 317 are arranged
in recessed relationship in a recess 318. The inside wall which
defines the recess 318, in conjunction with the external contour of
the base body 303 shown in FIG. 8a, provides for pre-positioning
thereof.
[0121] The connecting structural component shown in FIG. 10
includes a respiratory gas conduction device which is here in the
form of a tube projection portion 401. A further tube projection
portion 402 is arranged adjacent to that tube projection portion
401, leaving an intermediate space. The tube projection portion 402
forms a pressure-measuring tube connecting device. The two tube
projection portions 401, 402 are arranged in recessed relationship
in a recess 403. That recess is surrounded by a front cover plate
404. The cover plate 404 and the wall defining the recess 403 are
formed in one piece.
[0122] In a region remote from the end of the tube projection 401,
which is towards the tube, it opens into a base plate 405 which
here forms a cover plate for a labyrinth arrangement. This
labyrinth arrangement which is not described in greater detail here
forms a prolonged respiratory gas guide path for the absorption of
any odors produced by a blowing device. The base plate 405 is
coated with a sound-absorbing material, in particular foam, on the
rear side which is not visible here.
[0123] Provided in a region between the base plate 405 and the
cover plate 404 is a connecting duct 406, by way of which the
interior of the tube projection 402 can be coupled to a pressure
transducer arranged on a control board.
[0124] The connecting structural component is further provided with
fixing devices 407, 408, by way of which that component can be
fixed in a CPAP-unit in an easily interchangeable manner.
[0125] More particularly but not exclusively the conduit devices
shown in FIGS. 11a, 11b and 11c can be connected to the illustrated
connecting structural component.
[0126] In this respect FIG. 11a shows a compact plug which is
advantageous in terms of handling, from ergonomic points of view,
with an integrated pressure-measuring tube passage
configuration.
[0127] FIG. 11b shows a respiration tube 409 and a
pressure-measuring tube 410 which is independent thereof, both of
which can be connected without a plug arrangement directly to a
corresponding CPAP-unit, by way of the connecting structural
component according to the invention.
[0128] FIG. 11c is a greatly simplified view showing a coupling
portion of a humidifying apparatus which can be fitted directly to
a CPAP-unit by way of the structural component according to the
invention. In that case the projection portion identified by
reference numeral 411 engages with the tube projection 401 and the
bore portion 412 with the tube projection 402.
* * * * *