U.S. patent application number 17/101671 was filed with the patent office on 2021-05-20 for respiratory gas therapy.
The applicant listed for this patent is Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Limited. Invention is credited to Nordyn Alami, James Samuel Wong Doo, Andrew John Partington.
Application Number | 20210146087 17/101671 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005370570 |
Filed Date | 2021-05-20 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20210146087 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Doo; James Samuel Wong ; et
al. |
May 20, 2021 |
RESPIRATORY GAS THERAPY
Abstract
A gases humidifier comprising: a gases inlet and an outlet, a
removable humidification chamber cartridge with a heater source
adapted to vaporize fluid; and a metering arrangement adapted to
connect to and transfer fluid from a fluid supply to the
humidification chamber.
Inventors: |
Doo; James Samuel Wong;
(Auckland, NZ) ; Partington; Andrew John;
(Auckland, NZ) ; Alami; Nordyn; (Auckland,
NZ) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Limited |
Auckland |
|
NZ |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000005370570 |
Appl. No.: |
17/101671 |
Filed: |
November 23, 2020 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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15532475 |
Jun 1, 2017 |
10874821 |
|
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PCT/NZ2015/050204 |
Dec 3, 2015 |
|
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17101671 |
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62086922 |
Dec 3, 2014 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61M 2205/3368 20130101;
A61M 16/16 20130101; A61M 16/1065 20140204; A61M 2205/8206
20130101; A61M 11/042 20140204; F24F 6/08 20130101; A61M 2205/505
20130101; A61M 16/164 20140204; A61M 16/162 20130101; A61M 16/1075
20130101; A61M 2016/0027 20130101; A61M 2206/14 20130101; A61M
16/0057 20130101; A61M 2205/123 20130101; A61M 2205/581 20130101;
A61M 16/0816 20130101; A61M 16/161 20140204; A61M 2209/084
20130101; A61M 2205/3334 20130101; A61M 16/109 20140204; A61M
16/1055 20130101; A61M 16/1095 20140204; A61M 16/0066 20130101;
A61M 2016/0039 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61M 16/16 20060101
A61M016/16; A61M 16/00 20060101 A61M016/00; A61M 11/04 20060101
A61M011/04; F24F 6/08 20060101 F24F006/08; A61M 16/10 20060101
A61M016/10; A61M 16/08 20060101 A61M016/08 |
Claims
1.-42. (canceled)
43. A gases humidifier comprising: a humidification chamber adapted
to vaporize fluid, the humidification chamber comprising a heater
adapted to heat the fluid; a metering arrangement adapted to
transfer fluid from a fluid supply to the humidification chamber,
wherein at least a part of the metering arrangement lies within the
gases humidifier; and a thermally conductive element positioned
over the heater, wherein an outlet of the metering arrangement is
positioned directly over the thermally conductive element, and
wherein the heater is configured to generate heat which in turn is
transmitted through the thermally conductive element to heat fluid
present on the thermally conductive element, where the transmitted
heat is sufficient to cause evaporation of the fluid.
44. The gases humidifier of claim 43, wherein the thermally
conductive element is positioned on only one side of the
heater.
45. The gases humidifier of claim 43, wherein the thermally
conductive element is removable from a cavity of the humidification
chamber.
46. The gases humidifier of claim 43, wherein the thermally
conductive element is permanently positioned within a cavity of the
humidification chamber.
47. The gases humidifier of claim 43, wherein the thermally
conductive element comprises a bowl shape.
48. The gases humidifier of claim 43, wherein the thermally
conductive element comprises features that promote the spread of
fluid over a surface of the thermally conductive element.
49. The gases humidifier of claim 43, wherein the heater comprises
a printed circuit board.
50. The gases humidifier of claim 43, wherein the metering
arrangement comprises a pump.
51. The gases humidifier of claim 43, wherein at least a part of
the metering arrangement lies within the humidification
chamber.
52. A gases humidifier comprising: a humidification chamber adapted
to vaporize fluid, the humidification chamber comprising a heater
adapted to heat the fluid; a metering arrangement adapted to
transfer fluid from a fluid supply to the humidification chamber,
wherein at least a part of the metering arrangement lies within the
gases humidifier; and a thermally conductive element positioned
over the heater, wherein an outlet of the metering arrangement is
positioned directly over the thermally conductive element, where
the thermally conductive element forms a fluid barrier between
fluid and the heater.
53. The gases humidifier of claim 52, wherein the thermally
conductive element is positioned in contact with the heater.
54. The gases humidifier of claim 52, wherein the humidification
chamber comprises a structure adapted to force or urge the
thermally conductive element towards the heater to maximize heating
efficiency.
55. The gases humidifier of claim 52, wherein the thermally
conductive element is positionable relative to the heater.
56. The gases humidifier of claim 52, wherein the thermally
conductive element is permanently fixed relative to the heater.
57. The gases humidifier of claim 52, wherein the thermally
conductive element comprises a flat surface.
58. The gases humidifier of claim 52, wherein the thermally
conductive element is configured to spread fluid over a surface of
the thermally conductive element.
59. The gases humidifier of claim 52, wherein the heater comprises
a resistive heater.
60. The gases humidifier of claim 52, wherein the metering
arrangement comprises a micropump.
61. The gases humidifier of claim 52, wherein only an outlet of the
metering arrangement lies within the humidification chamber.
62. The gases humidifier of claim 52, wherein the metering
arrangement creates a thin layer of fluid over some or all of the
thermally conductive element.
Description
INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE TO ANY PRIORITY APPLICATIONS
[0001] Any and all applications for which a foreign or domestic
priority claim is identified in the Application Data Sheet as filed
with the present application are hereby incorporated by reference
under 37 CFR 1.57.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to respiratory gas
therapy. More particularly, but not exclusively, the present
disclosure relates to respiratory gas therapy systems with gas
humidifiers.
DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART
[0003] In patients suffering from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA),
muscles that normally keep the upper airway open relax during
slumber to the extent that the airway is constrained or completely
closed off, a phenomenon often manifesting itself in the form of
snoring. When this occurs for a period of time, the patient's brain
typically recognizes the threat of hypoxia and partially wakes the
patient in order to open the airway so that normal breathing may
resume. The patient may be unaware of these waking episodes, which
may occur as many as several hundred times per session of sleep.
This partial awakening may significantly reduce the quality of the
patient's sleep, over time potentially leading to a variety of
symptoms, including excessive daytime sleepiness, chronic fatigue,
elevated heart rate, elevated blood pressure, weight gain,
headaches, irritability, depression and anxiety.
[0004] Obstructive sleep apnea is commonly treated with the
application of positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy. PAP therapy
involves delivering a flow of gas to a patient at a therapeutic
pressure above atmospheric pressure that will reduce the frequency
and/or duration of apneas, hypopneas, and/or flow limitations. The
therapy is often implemented by using a positive airway pressure
device to deliver a pressurized stream of air through a conduit to
a patient through a patient interface or mask positioned on the
face of the patient. A gases humidifier may be used to humidify
gases being delivered to the patient.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
[0005] Gases humidifiers can comprise a fluid reservoir adapted to
store a quantity of humidification fluid (e.g. water) that can be
used to humidify gases passing through the gases humidifier. A
resistive heating element can be located under the fluid reservoir.
Heat transmitted from the resistive heating element to the fluid
increases the temperature of the fluid, encouraging vaporization
and entrainment of the fluid in the gases stream passing through
the gas humidifier. However with such a design, generally the
entire mass of fluid in the fluid reservoir must increase in
temperature before appreciable gains in output humidity can be
realized. The heat energy required to heat such a fluid mass can be
considerable and the type of resistive heating element used along
with the power supply for the resistive heating element can be
important design choices. Additionally, the thermal hysteresis of
the mass of fluid within the fluid reservoir reduces the ability of
such a gases humidifier to quickly change output humidity in
response to changing input gas flow rates or pressures (for
example, changing flow rates or pressures that might occur when
using positive airway pressure with pressure ramping, bi-level
pressure or expiratory pressure relief features). Such fluid
reservoirs can be bulky and can have a considerable effect on the
size and aesthetic appeal of the gases humidifier. As the inner
surfaces of the fluid reservoir are in contact with fluid in use,
replacing the entire fluid reservoir to manage the risk of
pathogenic contamination can become inconvenient and expensive.
Solutions for the above difficulties are sought.
[0006] It is an object of the present invention to provide an
improved respiratory therapy system.
[0007] Thus, in accordance with certain features, aspects and
advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, in
one aspect a gases humidifier is disclosed. The gases humidifier
comprises a humidification chamber adapted to vaporize fluid and a
metering arrangement adapted to transfer fluid from a fluid supply
to the humidification chamber. At least a part of the metering
arrangement lies within the gases humidifier.
[0008] In some configurations, at least a part of the metering
arrangement lies within the humidification chamber. In some such
configurations only an outlet of the metering arrangement lies
within the humidification chamber.
[0009] In some configurations, the metering arrangement comprises a
pump.
[0010] In some configurations, the humidification chamber comprises
a heater adapted to heat the fluid. In some such configurations,
the gases humidifier additionally comprises a thermally conductive
element positioned over the heater. In some such configurations,
the metering arrangement is configured to transfer liquid directly
to the thermally conductive element. In some such configurations,
an outlet of the metering arrangement is positioned directly over
the thermally conductive element.
[0011] If the thermally conductive element is used, in some
configurations the humidification chamber defines a cavity adapted
to accept the thermally conductive element. In some such
configurations the thermally conductive element is slideably
locatable within the cavity. In some such configurations, the gases
humidifier further comprises a locking engagement arrangement
configured to retain the thermally conductive element within the
cavity. In some such configurations, the locking engagement
arrangement comprises open and closed positions, wherein the
locking engagement arrangement may be detached from the gases
humidifier when in the open position to allow access to the
thermally conductive element.
[0012] In another aspect a gases humidifier is disclosed. The gases
humidifier comprises a gases inlet; a gases outlet; a
humidification chamber interposed between the gases inlet and the
gases outlet, the humidification chamber adapted to vaporize a
liquid such that it is transferred to a gas stream passing through
the humidifier from the gases inlet to the gases outlet; and a
metering arrangement adapted to transfer the liquid from a liquid
supply to the humidification chamber; wherein at least a part of
the metering arrangement lies within the humidification
chamber.
[0013] In some configurations, only an outlet of the metering
arrangement lies within the humidification chamber.
[0014] In some configurations, the metering arrangement comprises a
pump.
[0015] In some configurations, the humidification chamber comprises
a heater adapted to heat the fluid.
[0016] In some configurations, a thermally conductive element
positioned over the heater.
[0017] Iii some configurations, the metering arrangement is
configured to transfer liquid directly to the thermally conductive
element.
[0018] In some configurations, an outlet of the metering
arrangement is positioned directly over the thermally conductive
element.
[0019] In some configurations, the humidification chamber defines a
cavity adapted to accept the thermally conductive element.
[0020] In some configurations, the thermally conductive element is
slideably locatable within the cavity.
[0021] In some configurations there is a locking engagement
arrangement configured to retain the thermally conductive element
within the cavity.
[0022] In some configurations, the locking engagement arrangement
comprises open and closed positions, and wherein the locking
engagement arrangement may be detached from the gases humidifier
when in the open position to allow access to the thermally
conductive element.
[0023] In another aspect a gases humidifier is disclosed. The gases
humidifier comprises an aperture defined by a humidification
chamber adapted to vaporize fluid; a humidification element
slideably locatable within the aperture; and a locking engagement
arrangement configured to retain the humidification element within
the aperture; wherein the locking engagement arrangement comprises
open and closed positions, and wherein the locking engagement
arrangement is configured to be detached from the gases humidifier
when in the open position to allow access to the humidification
element. In some configurations, the humidification element is a
thermally conductive element.
[0024] In some configurations, there is also a metering arrangement
adapted to transfer fluid from a fluid supply, wherein the metering
arrangement is configured to deposit fluid onto the thermally
conductive element when the thermally conductive element is present
within the aperture.
[0025] In some configurations, at least a part of the metering
arrangement lies within the humidification chamber.
[0026] In some configurations, only an outlet of the metering
arrangement lies within the humidification chamber.
[0027] In some configurations, the metering arrangement comprises a
pump.
[0028] In another aspect a respiratory therapy system is disclosed.
The respiratory therapy system comprises a flow generator; and a
gases humidifier detachably connectable to the flow generator, the
gases humidifier comprising: a humidification chamber adapted to
vaporize fluid; and a metering arrangement adapted to transfer
fluid from a fluid supply to the humidification chamber; wherein at
least a part of the metering arrangement lies within the gas
humidifier. In some configurations, the gases humidifier is
detachably connectable to a bottom surface of the flow generator in
such a way that the footprint of the flow generator is
substantially maintained.
[0029] In some configurations, there is also a fluid reservoir
comprising a seat in which the gases humidifier may be located.
[0030] In some configurations, the gases humidifier is detachably
connectable to a bottom surface of the flow generator in such a way
that the footprint of the flow generator is substantially
maintained.
[0031] In some configurations, the respiratory therapy system
further comprises a fluid reservoir comprising a seat in which the
gases humidifier may be located.
[0032] In another aspect a gases humidifier is disclosed
comprising: a gases inlet and an outlet, a removable humidification
chamber cartridge with a heater source adapted to vaporize fluid;
and a metering arrangement adapted to connect to and transfer fluid
from a fluid supply to the humidification chamber.
[0033] In some configurations, one or more sensors to measure
temperature and/or humidity.
[0034] In some configurations, the heater source is a heating
element integrated in or forming part of the humidification chamber
cartridge.
[0035] In some configurations, the heater source is a PCB heater,
ECP structure, or combination of PCB and ECP structure.
[0036] In some configurations, the pump is connected to a fluid
supply.
[0037] In some configurations, there is also a fluid supply.
[0038] In some configurations, there is also an external or
internal power source.
[0039] In some configurations, the metering arrangement is a pump
or a valve.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0040] Specific embodiments and modifications thereof will become
apparent to those skilled in the art from the detailed description
herein having reference to the figures that follow, of which:
[0041] FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of a respiratory therapy
system,
[0042] FIG. 2A shows a front perspective view of a respiratory
therapy system.
[0043] FIG. 2B shows a rear perspective view of a respiratory
therapy system,
[0044] FIG. 3 shows an exploded front perspective view of a
respiratory therapy system.
[0045] FIG. 4A shows an exploded elevated rear view of a gases
humidifier.
[0046] FIG. 4B shows an exploded perspective view of a gases
humidifier.
[0047] FIG. 4C shows a bottom plan view of a portion of a gases
humidifier.
[0048] FIG. 4D shows a top plan view of a portion of a gases
humidifier.
[0049] FIG. 5 shows a front perspective view of a portion of a
gases humidifier.
[0050] FIG. 6A shows an exploded elevated front perspective view of
a portion of a gases humidifier.
[0051] FIG. 6B shows an exploded elevated perspective view of a
portion of a gases humidifier.
[0052] FIG. 6C shows an elevated front perspective view of a
portion of a gases humidifier.
[0053] FIG. 6D shows an elevated front perspective view of a
portion of a gases humidifier.
[0054] FIGS. 7A, 7B shows another embodiment of the respiratory
therapy system in assembled form.
[0055] FIG. 8 shows the respiratory therapy system with the water
chamber cartridge in exploded form.
[0056] FIGS. 9A, 9B show the main housing of the respiratory
therapy system.
[0057] FIG. 10 shows a PCB heater in the main housing.
[0058] FIGS. 11 to 13 show the water cartridge chamber and lid.
[0059] FIG. 14 shows a pump of the respiratory therapy system.
[0060] FIG. 15 shows a flow generator of the respiratory therapy
system.
[0061] FIGS. 16 to 18 show an alternative water chamber cartridge
formed of ECP.
[0062] FIGS. 19 to 22 show an alternative water chamber cartridge
with a bowl.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0063] With reference to the non-limiting exemplary embodiment
illustrated in FIG. 1, a respiratory therapy system 100 is shown.
The respiratory therapy system 100 comprises a flow generator 200.
The flow generator 200 comprises a blower apparatus 201, such as a
PAP device. The flow generator 200 receives gases from a gases
inlet 202 and transfers them to a gases humidifier 300. The gases
humidifier 300 heats and humidifies the gases. Heated and
humidified gases are passed from a humidifier outlet to a gases
conduit 112. The gases conduit 112 comprises a heater 114. The
heater 114 reduces or prevents the condensation of moisture along
the walls of the gases conduit 112. Gases are passed from the gases
conduit 112 to a patient interface 116 through which they are
delivered to a user. The respiratory therapy system 100 comprises a
controller 111 that controls the operation of the flow generator
200, The controller 111 also controls the operation of the gases
humidifier 300, The respiratory therapy system 100 comprises an
input/output (110) module 110. The PO module 110 comprises a way
for a user to interact with and set parameters for the flow
generator 200 and/or gases humidifier 300 (e.g. through the
controller 111) as well as receive information regarding the
operation of the respiratory therapy system 100 and/or its
components. The I/O module 110 may comprise, for example, buttons,
knobs, dials, switches, levers, touch screens, speakers, displays
and/or other input or output elements. In other configurations, the
gas conduit 112 may not have a heater 114. In some configurations,
the controller 111 may communicate directly with both the flow
generator 200 and the gases humidifier 300 (along data pathway `A`
as seen in FIG. 1). In other configurations, the controller 111 may
communicate with the flow generator 200, and may only communicate
with the gases humidifier 300 only when the flow generator 200 is
connected to the gases humidifier 300 (e.g. along data pathway
representing a data linkage between the flow generator 200 and the
gases humidifier 300 as seen in FIG. 1).
[0064] The flow generator 200 and gases humidifier 300 may be part
of an integrated flow delivery system or may share a housing, in
other configurations, the flow generator 200 may comprise elements
other than PAP devices, including but not limited to high flow
therapy devices or ventilation devices. If a PAP device is
utilized, the PAP device may comprise a number of PAP device
variants, including but not limited to continuous positive airway
pressure (CPAP) devices, automatically adjusting positive airway
pressure (APAP or AutoPAP) devices, or bi-level positive airway
pressure (BiPAP or bi-level PAP) devices. The patient interface 116
comprises a mask adapted to seal about and channel gases to the
nose and/or mouth of the user. In other configurations, the patient
interface 116 may comprise a semi-sealing or non-sealing interface.
In other configurations the patient interface 116 may comprise an
oral mask, an oro-nasal mask, a full face mask, a nasal pillows
mask, a nasal cannula, an endotracheal mask or tube, combinations
of the above, or other gas conveying elements, apparatus or
systems.
[0065] FIGS. 2A and 2B show a non-limiting exemplary respiratory
therapy system 100 that may be used with the configuration
illustrated in FIG. 1. As shown, the respiratory therapy system 100
comprises a flow generator 200, The flow generator 200 comprises a
gases inlet 202 (see FIG. 2B). The gases inlet 202 comprises a
series of inlet apertures positioned on a rear portion of the
housing of the flow generator 200. The inlet apertures may be
covered or insulated with noise attenuating structures or elements
(including but not limited to open cell foams or `honeycomb`
structures) to reduce noise generated by flow passing into the flow
generator 200 through the gases inlet 202. In some configurations,
gas filters may be positioned at or near the gases inlet 202. The
gas filters may remove contaminants or pollutants from the incoming
gas stream. The gas filters may be anti-pathogenic (e.g.
anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-fungal, etc). The flow generator
200 additionally comprises a gases outlet 204 through which gases
leave the flow generator 200 and pass through a gases conduit (for
example, the gases conduit 112 described elsewhere in this
disclosure with reference to FIG. 1). Inside the housing is a
blower apparatus. The blower apparatus may include, for example,
one of the blower apparatus described in commonly-owned
WO2013/009193, the entire content of which is hereby incorporated
by reference in its entirety.
[0066] The illustrated flow generator 200 is not to be taken as
limiting, and other configurations are envisioned. For example, in
some configurations, the gases inlet 202 may comprise a single
elongate aperture. In other configurations, the gases inlet 202 may
comprise a plurality of relatively small apertures. In some
configurations, a gases filter may be positioned downstream of the
gases inlet 202 to remove contaminants or particulates in the gases
supply (e.g. ambient air). In some configurations, the flow
generator 200 may comprise a container of pressurized gases or a
bellows arrangement instead of or in addition to a mechanical
blower. In some configurations, the flow generator 200 may comprise
a radial gases outlet or an axial gases outlet rather than the
tangential gases outlet 204 shown in FIGS. 2A-2B.
[0067] The respiratory therapy system 100 additionally comprises a
gases humidifier 300. The gases humidifier 300 is a modular
construction and is detachably fixable to the flow generator 200.
The gases humidifier 300 may, for example, be connected to the flow
generator 200 through the use of various arrangements or devices,
including but not limited to latch/catch arrangements,
bayonet-style fittings and protrusion/recess connection
arrangements. The footprint of the gases humidifier 300 is
substantially similar to the footprint of the flow generator 200.
In other words, the combined footprint of the flow generator 200
and the gases humidifier 300 is not substantially greater than
either of the two components with respect to the area taken up by
the combined unit on a flat space on, for example, a horizontal
stand or support (e.g. a night stand or table). The gases
humidifier 300 shown is a pass-over type humidifier where a gas
stream moving through the gases humidifier 300 passes along a body
of fluid and increases in humidity as it passes along the body of
fluid. The gases humidifier 300 comprises a fluid inlet aperture
302 (described elsewhere in this disclosure). Components of the
gases humidifier 300 can be accessed through a locking engagement
arrangement 500 (described elsewhere in this disclosure).
[0068] In other configurations, the gases humidifier 300 may be
integrated with the flow generator 200, or share a housing with the
flow generator 200. In some configurations, the illustrated flow
generator 200 may not be present, and gases from a remote source
may be channeled through the gases humidifier 300. Seals may be
present on the flow generator 200 and/or gases humidifier 300 to
ensure a sealed gases passageway between the flow generator 200 and
the gases humidifier 300.
[0069] The gases humidifier 300 rests on a fluid reservoir 400. The
fluid reservoir 400 comprises a raised portion or seat 402
extending from a top surface of the fluid reservoir 400. The raised
portion 402 defines a space in which the gases humidifier 300 may
be placed. The fluid reservoir 400 comprises an internal space 404
configured to hold a quantity of fluid. A fluid outlet 406 is
positioned on one side of the fluid reservoir 400, The fluid outlet
406 comprises an open cylindrical projection in communication with
the internal space 404. The cylindrical projection of the fluid
outlet 406 interfaces with a fluid tubing 410 that extends between
the cylindrical projection and the fluid inlet aperture 302
(described elsewhere in this disclosure). The fluid tube can be
integrated into the reservoir or in the humidifier if the
humidifier docks onto the water reservoir. The fluid reservoir 400
additionally comprises a fill aperture 408 (see FIG. 3) through
which fluid may be transferred into the internal space 404.
[0070] In other configurations, the raised portion 402 or a
separate fastening arrangement or device may be configured to
releasably join the gases humidifier 300 to the fluid reservoir
400. In other configurations, the gases humidifier 300 may be
integrated with the fluid reservoir 400, or may share a housing
with the fluid reservoir 400. The gases humidifier 300 may be
permanently fixed to the fluid reservoir 400. In other
configurations, the fluid reservoir 400 may not have a fill
aperture 408, and fluid may both enter and exit the fluid reservoir
400 through the fluid inlet aperture 406. In still other
configurations the fluid reservoir 400 may not be present, and
fluid may be delivered to the fluid inlet aperture 302 of the gases
humidifier 300 from a remote reservoir via a section of fluid
tubing 410 (e.g. from a water bag suspended above the flow
generator 200 and/or gases humidifier 300. In some configurations,
the fluid reservoir 400 may instead be joined to the top of the
gases humidifier 300, or to the top of the flow generator 200.
Although in the illustrated configuration the fluid reservoir 400
comprises a larger footprint than the flow generator 200 or the
gases humidifier 300, in other configurations the fluid reservoir
400 may comprise the same or a similar footprint.
[0071] FIG. 3 illustrates an exploded view of the respiratory
therapy system 100 shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B. As shown, the gases
humidifier 300 comprises a top portion 310, a bottom portion 314,
and a side wall 312. Gases humidifier inlet 304 and gases
humidifier outlet 306 openings lie on the top portion 310 and allow
gas to pass from the flow generator 200 to a chamber or
humidification region defined between the top and bottom portions
310, 314 and side wall 312. An aperture 308 is positioned on one
side of the top portion 310 to allow for an electrical connector
extending from the gases humidifier 300 to provide power to the
flow generator 200, or vice versa, to allow an electrical connector
extending from the flow generator 200 to provide power to the gases
humidifier 300. A thermally conductive element 318 is removably
insertable into the chamber defined between the top and bottom
portions 310, 314. The thermally conductive element 318 takes the
form of a tray that is slideably positionable within the chamber. A
base component 316 lies under the bottom portion 314 and provides
support to the gases humidifier 300. The base component 316 also
cooperates with the locking engagement arrangement 500 to retain
the thermally conductive element 318 within the chamber (described
elsewhere in this disclosure).
[0072] In some configurations, baffles, walls or fins may be
located in the flow generator 200 to compel flow passing through
the flow generator 200 to move through the gases humidifier inlet
304. Other baffles, walls or fins may be located in the flow
generator 200 to compel flow leaving the gases humidifier outlet
306 and re-entering the flow generator 200 to exit through the
gases outlet 204. In some configurations, the chamber may comprise
rails that guide the sliding motion of the thermally conductive
element 318 into the chamber. The rails may extend inwardly into
the chamber from the side wall 312. In other configurations, the
chamber may comprise a structure adapted to force or urge the
thermally conductive element 318 towards the bottom portion 314 to
maximize heating efficiency (see following disclosure). In other
configurations, the thermally conductive element 318 may be
permanently fixed to the gases humidifier 300. For example, the
thermally conductive element 318 could simply be a layer of
thermally conductive material present on the surface of the bottom
portion 314. If the bottom portion 314 comprises an electrical
component (e.g. an electric heater) the thermally conductive
material may also be electrically insulative. In other
configurations, the thermally conductive element 318 may comprise a
flat surface or a bowl shape rather than a tray shape. The
thermally conductive element 318 may not necessarily be limited to
moving slideably in and out of the chamber. In other
configurations, the thermally conductive element 318 may be
inserted into the chamber from a top or bottom aperture. In some
configurations, either of the flow generator 200 or the gases
humidifier 300 may be powered by a separate mains connection or
battery. In some such configurations, no electrical connection
links the flow generator 200 and the gases humidifier 300. In some
configurations, the electrical connection linking the flow
generator 200 and the gases humidifier 300 may include a data
transfer linkage such that the same controller may be used to
control both the flow generator 200 and the gases humidifier
300.
[0073] In some configurations, the thermally conductive element 318
may comprise fins or baffles that compel flow passing along the
thermally conductive element 318 to move along a more tortuous
path. In some configurations, the chamber may comprise fins or
baffles that compel flow passing through the chamber to move along
a more tortuous path. Fins or baffles present on the thermally
conductive element 318 and/or in the chamber may improve the
efficacy of the gases humidifier 300. In some configurations, the
thermally conductive element 318 may comprise a wicking structure.
The wicking structure may cause fluid deposited on the thermally
conductive element 318 to be spread out over the surface of the
thermally conductive element 318. The wicking structure could, for
example, comprise natural or artificial sponge, melamine foam, or a
water sorbent material. In some configurations, the thermally
conductive element 318 may comprise surface details or features
that promote the spread of fluid over the surface of the thermally
conductive element 318. For example, the thermally conductive
element 318 could comprise microstructures including but not
limited to microchannels, micro-size protrusions or micro-size
recesses that promote the spread of liquid via capillary action.
The microstructures on the thermally conductive element 318 could
comprise one or more of the microstructure configurations disclosed
in commonly-owned WO2014/003579 or commonly-owned WO2014/142677,
the entire contents of each of which are hereby incorporated into
this disclosure in their entirety.
[0074] The bottom portion 314 comprises a heater adapted to heat
the thermally conductive element 318 present in the chamber. In the
illustrated configuration, the heater comprises a printed circuit
board. The printed circuit board receives electrical energy from
the flow generator 200 though an electrical connector extending
through the aperture 308. The electrical energy is used by the
printed circuit board to generate heat which in turn is transmitted
through the thermally conductive element 318 to heat fluids present
on the thermally conductive element 318. The heated fluids are
encouraged to evaporate and become entrained in the gases stream
passing through the gases humidifier 300.
[0075] The heater may be maintained at a constant temperature or
duty cycle dependent on one or more input parameters (received, for
example, by the I/O module 110 described elsewhere in this
disclosure with reference to FIG. 1), or may be controlled in a
number of other ways. In other configurations, the heater may
comprise a number of heating arrangements or apparatus, including
but not limited to resistive heater elements, heating surfaces with
etched or printed heating tracks, masses of material with in-mold
heating devices, chemical heating systems, and wireless heating
systems. In some configurations, a thermally conductive and/or
electrically insulative layer may cover at least a section of the
heater. The thermally conductive and/or electrically insulative
layer may be overmoulded onto the heater. In some configurations, a
three-layer construction may be used. A first thermally conductive
and electrically insulative layer (first layer; for example, Kapton
film) may be used to cover the heater. A second protective layer
(for example, a stainless steel or aluminium film) may cover the
first layer to protect the first layer from scratches or
abrasions.
[0076] FIGS. 4A through 5 show alternative views of portions of the
respiratory therapy system 100, where in each instance the flow
generator 200 has been removed from the view. As shown, an
electrical connector 322 extends from the bottom portion 314 (e.g.
from the printed circuit board) of the gases humidifier 300 and is
adapted to project through the aperture 308 to interface with a
complementary electrical connection region of the flow generator
200. The gases humidifier 300 additionally comprises a metering
arrangement/device 320. The metering arrangement 320 comprises an
arrangement inlet 320A and an arrangement outlet 320B. As shown the
metering arrangement 320 comprises a piezoelectric micropump. The
micropump is anchored to a raised portion of the base component 316
(e.g. by screws or pins) that extends through or is accessible
through a complementary gap in the bottom portion 314 (e.g. through
a gap in the printed circuit board). As can be seen in FIG. 4B,
when the gases humidifier 300 is assembled the arrangement inlet
320A of the metering arrangement 320 protrudes through the fluid
inlet aperture 302 (defined between the top and bottom portions
310, 314 by a cut-out in the side wall 312). Locating features
(e.g. ridges or raised portions) 324, 326 (see FIG. 4C) on the
underside of the top portion 310 help to keep the metering
arrangement 320 (e.g. the arrangement inlet 320A and arrangement
outlet 320B) in a desired orientation. The arrangement inlet 320A
can interface with the fluid outlet 406 of the fluid reservoir 400
(through the fluid tubing 410) such that the metering arrangement
320 can transfer fluid from the fluid reservoir 400 to the chamber.
Additionally, when the gases humidifier 300 is assembled the
arrangement outlet 320B extends into the chamber. The arrangement
outlet 320B is positioned above the thermally conductive element
318 such that fluids exiting the arrangement outlet 320B are
deposited onto the thermally conductive element 318.
[0077] Integrating the metering arrangement 320 into the gases
humidifier 300 allows for greater convenience and improved
humidification efficiency. In particular, if the metering
arrangement 320 is integrated into the chamber, the chance of
losing or damaging the metering arrangement 320 is significantly
less than if the metering arrangement 320 were positioned outside
of the chamber. The aesthetic appeals of the gases humidifier 300
and of the respiratory therapy system 100 are improved when the
metering arrangement is integrated into the gases humidifier 300.
Additionally, in the illustrated configuration a separate fluid
tubing 410 to transfer fluids from the metering arrangement 320 to
the chamber is unnecessary, reducing expenses and energy required
to transfer the fluid. Heating the metering arrangement 320 by
locating it in the chamber such that it is at least indirectly
affected by the heat generated by the heater (present on, for
example, the bottom portion 314) may improve the efficiency of the
metering arrangement 320.
[0078] In the illustrated configuration, the micropump of the
metering arrangement 320 is configured to transfer fluids from the
fluid reservoir 400 or from a separate fluid container to the
chamber (e.g. onto the thermally conductive element 318). In other
configurations, the micropump may also be configured to run in
reverse, e.g. to pump fluid out of the chamber (e.g. from the
thermally conductive element 318). Running the micropump in reverse
can help to evacuate the chamber if too much water is placed into
the chamber. In some configurations, the metering arrangement 320
may be configured to move fluids within the chamber or to move
fluids already on the thermally conductive element 318 (e.g.
circulation and re-circulation of the fluids). Agitating the fluids
may improve the efficiency of humidification.
[0079] It should be understood that the metering arrangement 320 is
not necessarily limited to comprising a micropump. In other
configurations, other displacement pumps, including but not limited
to peristaltic pumps, progressive cavity pumps, rotary vane pumps,
and Roots-type pumps, may be used to transfer fluid. Additionally,
the metering arrangement 320 need not necessarily comprise a pump.
For example, if the fluid source (e.g. the fluid reservoir 400 or a
separate fluid container) can be suspended above the chamber, the
metering arrangement 320 may comprise an electromechanical (e.g.
solenoid) valve allowing for fluids positioned above the valve to
be controllably deposited into the chamber (e.g. onto the thermally
conductive element 318).
[0080] In other configurations, the metering arrangement 320 need
not necessarily be screwed or bolted onto the base component 316.
For example, the metering arrangement 320 may be integrally formed
with or share a joint housing together with the base component 316,
In some configurations, the metering arrangement may be adhered to
the base component 316 or to another component of the respiratory
therapy system 100 (including but not limited to the flow generator
200, the gases humidifier 300, or the fluid reservoir 400), or
retained using a variety of mechanical fastening arrangements
including but not limited to hook-and-loop connections or
latch/catch arrangements. In some configurations, the locating
features 324, 326 on the underside of the top portion 310 may not
be present.
[0081] FIGS. 6A through 6D show exploded and perspective views of
portions of the gases humidifier 300 together with the locking
engagement arrangement 500, in which each instance the top portion
310 has been removed from the view. In the illustrated
configuration, the locking engagement arrangement 500 comprises a
back panel 502. The back panel 502 comprises a frame that extends
along a side of the base component 316. The frame comprises a
recessed region 502A in which a window panel 504 rests. Raised
portions 502B, 502C of the frame interface with complementary
recesses 504B, 504C on a rear portion of the window panel 504. The
window panel 504 defines a window 504A in which an engagement
structure 506 rests. The engagement structure 506 comprises a
substantially rectangular panel comprising a protrusion or knob
506A and projections 5061, 506C that extend axially from the panel
in directions substantially perpendicular to the protrusion 506A.
When the locking engagement arrangement 500 is assembled, a slot is
defined between the back panel 502 and the window panel 504 in
which the engagement structure 506 can be slideably positioned. The
base component 316 comprises a recessed track 508 in which the
bottom projection 506C can move.
[0082] FIGS. 6C-6D demonstrate the function of the locking
engagement arrangement 500. In a locked position, the protrusion
506A of the engagement structure 506 is positioned (e.g. on the
tight as viewed in the top drawing of FIG. 6C) such that movement
of the locking engagement arrangement 500 away from the gases
humidifier 300 is prevented. The bayonet-style shape of the
recessed track 508 (e.g. the right portion as viewed in FIG. 6A)
serves to trap the bottom projection 506C. When the protrusion 506A
is moved (e.g. manually with a force F as shown using the black
arrow present in the top drawing of FIG. 6C) towards an open
position (e.g. towards the left as viewed in the bottom drawing of
FIG. 6C), the bottom projection 506C is urged towards an open
portion of the recessed track (e.g. the left portion as viewed in
FIG. 6A). When in the open position, and as seen in FIG. 6D, the
locking engagement arrangement 500 can be removed to allow access
to the chamber of the gases humidifier 300. As such, when the
locking engagement arrangement 500 is in the open position, the
thermally conductive element 318 may be removed and replaced,
Allowing for removal and replacement of the thermally conductive
element 318 reduces the need for cleaning and improves the
sterility of the gases humidifier 300. Alternatively, if the
thermally conductive element 318 is intended to be used permanently
or for a significant period of time over the lifetime of the gases
humidifier 300, allowing for removal of the thermally conductive
element 318 allows for easier cleaning. When the locking engagement
arrangement 500 is in the closed position, the thermally conductive
element 318 may be locked in place. The locking engagement
arrangement 500 also seals the chamber to prevent gases passing
through the gases humidifier 300 from passing directly into the
ambient atmosphere.
[0083] In other configurations, the top and/or bottom projections
5068, 506C may alternatively or additionally engage with
complementary recesses or tracks present on the top and/or bottom
portions 310, 314 (e.g. present on the underside of the top portion
310 and/or on the top of the bottom portion 314). In some
configurations, a part of the locking engagement arrangement 500 or
a part of the gases humidifier 300, including but not limited to a
surface of the back panel 502 facing the chamber and a wall of the
gases humidifier 300 defining the chamber, may comprise a sealing
structure adapted to seal the chamber when the locking engagement
arrangement is fixed to the gases humidifier 300. The sealing
structure may comprise a number of elements including but not
limited to resilient silicone flanges or beads. In other
configurations, other mechanical fastening arrangements for use
with the locking engagement arrangement 500 to retain the thermally
conductive element 318 in the chamber may be used, including but
not limited to latch/catch arrangements, snap-fit arrangements or
hinged door arrangements. Instead of sliding the protrusion 506A
back in forth to open or close the locking engagement arrangement
500, in some configurations the locking engagement arrangement 500
may simply go from closed to open positions after the application
of a predetermined amount of force urging the locking engagement
arrangement 500 away from the gases humidifier 300. In some such
configurations, the locking engagement arrangement 500 may comprise
a handle extending outwardly from the back panel 502 to allow a
user to apply force to the locking engagement arrangement 500.
[0084] In other configurations, a springing mechanism may be used
to apply a biasing force to the thermally conductive element 318.
The springing mechanism can include a number of components,
including but not limited to helical wire springs, flat springs, or
resilient materials. The springing mechanism may be secured to the
side wall opposite the side of the gases humidifier 300 at which
the thermally conductive element 318 is introduced to the chamber.
As the thermally conductive element 318 is pushed into the chamber,
the springing mechanism may in turn bias the thermally conductive
element 318. Subsequently, when the locking engagement arrangement
500 is attached to the gases humidifier 300 and switched to the
locked position, the springing mechanism may help to retain the
thermally, conductive element 318 in the chamber. When the locking
engagement arrangement 500 is switched to the open position, force
stored in the springing mechanism may be used to at least in part
eject the thermally conductive element 318 from the chamber.
[0085] In still other configurations, the locking engagement
arrangement 500 may not be present, and the thermally conductive
element 318 may be permanently positioned within the chamber of the
gases humidifier 300. In still other configurations, other
components of the gases humidifier 300 (`humidification elements`),
including but not limited to the heater positioned on the bottom
portion 314, may be removed when the locking engagement arrangement
500 is in the open position. In still other configurations, the
thermally conductive element 318 may be integrally moulded or in
the form of a single continuous component together with the locking
engagement arrangement 500. Removing the locking engagement
arrangement 500 from the gases humidifier 300 may have the effect
of simultaneously removing the thermally conductive element 318
from the chamber.
[0086] In some configurations, the flow generator 200 may comprise
a lid or a cap adapted to sealingly close the aperture or apertures
in the housing of the flow generator 200 that can be pneumatically
coupled to the gases humidifier inlet 304 and gases humidifier
outlet 306 openings of the gases humidifier 300. The lid may be
physically separate from the flow generator 200 and may be
removably connectable to the flow generator 200 (via any number of
arrangements, including but not limited to frictional, snap-fit or
bayonet-style connections). In other configurations, the lid may be
permanently fixed to the flow generator 200 and moveable to occlude
or expose the aperture or apertures. For example, the lid may be
slideably coupled to the flow generator 200. The lid may be slid in
a first direction to occlude the aperture or apertures and may be
slid in a second direction to expose the aperture or apertures. In
some configurations, multiple lids may be used.
[0087] In some configurations, a fluid filter may be placed in or
near the fluid tubing 410, metering arrangement 320, gases
humidifier 300 and/or fluid reservoir 400. The fluid filter may be
configured to remove contaminants from the fluids metered by the
metering arrangement 320 before the fluids enter the chamber. The
fluid filter may be anti-pathogenic (e.g. antibacterial, antiviral,
antifungal, etc). For example, the fluid filter may comprise
organic anti-bacterial compounds or particulate silver.
[0088] In some configurations, some or all of the gases humidifier
300 may be joined to a housing adapted to cover all components of
the gases humidifier 300 except for the gases humidifier inlet 304
opening, the gases humidifier outlet 306 opening, the locking
engagement arrangement 500 (which is removable to allow access to
the chamber and the thermally conductive element 318), and an
electrical connector (for power and/or data). The housing could be
designed such that the gases humidifier 300 may be used with a
multitude of different flow therapy systems. For example, the
housing may have movable panels that may transpose the position of
the humidifier inlet 304 opening and/or the position of the
humidifier outlet 306 opening. In some cases the electrical
connector may transposable on the exterior of the housing (using,
for example, a flexible or movable electrical harness). In other
such configurations, the locking engagement arrangement 500 may not
be present and the thermally conductive element 318 may be
permanently set in the chamber.
[0089] Operation of the device will now be described. The reservoir
400 is filled with fluid and the apparatus assembled. A breathing
conduit 112 and patient interface are connected to the outlet 204.
The respiratory therapy system 100 can then be switched on and
operated using the user interface in the usual manner. Under
control by the controller 110, the flow generator 200 (by way of
the blower) will create a flow of gases in the usual manner for a
respiratory therapy system and the gases will flow through the
humidifier. The controller operates the pump 320 to provide a
metering arrangement to transfer water from the water reservoir to
the conductive element 318. This creates a thin layer of water over
some or all of the element. The controller operates the heater 314
to create a heat which is then transferred through the element 318
to heat the thin layer of water. Gases from the flow generator 200
passes over the water, and absorbs moisture, thus humidifying the
gases. The gases then flow out for delivery to the patient through
a breathing conduit 112 and patient interface 116 in the usual
manner.
[0090] FIGS. 7A to 15 show another non-limiting exemplary
embodiment of a respiratory therapy system 100. A brief overview of
the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 7A, 7B,
and various components will later be described in more detail with
reference to all FIGS. 7B to 13.
[0091] FIG. 7A shows the system in diagrammatic form, and FIG. 7B
shows one physical form of the system. Some of the components are
not shown in both Figures for reasons of clarity, but it will be
appreciated that the embodiment comprises the components of both
Figures, where appropriate. As shown, the respiratory therapy
system 100 comprises a main housing 70, a flow generator 200, and a
gases humidifier 300. The main housing 70 comprises a base portion
70a that contains the humidifier 300, and has a top face 81 (see
e.g. FIGS. 8, 9a, 9h, 10) for supporting/receiving the flow
generator 200. The main housing 70 also has an upright back portion
70b, which comprises a respiratory therapy system outlet conduit
73, a humidifier inlet conduit 72, connector 132, and other
components of the respiratory therapy system A metering device 86
is also provided in the system 100 for delivering fluid to the
humidifier.
[0092] The flow generator, base 70a and/or upright 70b housing
portions and/or humidifier 300 can also contain the other
components of a respiratory therapy system, such as a controller
60, power source 61, sensors 65a-65c and user interface 62. The
power source might also be external, or a combination of external
and internal, and there might be more than one power source. The
system 100 preferably has one or more sensors (e.g. 65a, 65b, 65c
shown in FIG. 7a) for measuring temperature, humidity, flow,
pressure and/or other parameters (ambient or otherwise, relative or
absolute) coupled to the controller for aiding operation of the
system 100. The sensors could, for example, be positioned
with/coupled to the blower, cartridge chanter, gas flow paths
and/or heating element--as well as other locations. The sensors
65a, 65b, 65c are coupled to the controller 60. The controller 60
(coupled to and using output from the sensors as required) can
control the blower 201, humidifier 300, user interface 62, metering
arrangement/device (e.g. pump) 86 and/or other components or
operations of the system 100 in a manner known to those skilled in
the art. Various configurations, placements and interconnections of
the controller, power source, sensors, metering device and user
interface will be described herein by way of example, but these
should not be considered limiting. Those skilled in the art will
understand that other configurations, placements and
interconnections of these and other components are possible.
[0093] The various components of the respiratory therapy system
will now be described in further detail.
[0094] The flow generator (shown in isolation in FIG. 15) has a
housing 71 and inside the housing there is a blower apparatus 201
(such as a PAP device). An example is shown in FIGS. 1 and 7A. The
blower apparatus 201 may include, for example, one of the blower
apparatus described in WO2013/009193, the contents of which are
hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. The flow
generator 200 comprises a gases inlet 63 (shown in FIG. 7a) and a
gases outlet 204. The flow generator optionally contains one or
more temperature, humidity, flow and/or pressure sensors (shown as
65a in FIG. 7a) on the inlet, outlet, in any suitable gases flow
path and/or any at other suitable location. The blower apparatus
201 in use draws gases through the inlet 63 and delivers a flow of
gases through the gases outlet 204 via a gases conduit (for
example, a gases conduit 72 described elsewhere in this disclosure
with reference to the Figures) towards the humidifier 300,
Preferably the gases inlet 63 and gases outlet 204 form part of
and/or extend through the flow generator housing 71 (as seen in
FIG. 15, for example).
[0095] The flow generator also preferably comprises the controller
60, which is coupled to the sensors 65a to 65c (arranged on the
blower and/or elsewhere in the system 100) and is also coupled to
and operates the blower 201, humidifier 300, pump 86 (to be
described later), user interface 62 and/or other operations and/or
components of the system 100, The controller is coupled to an
external (or alternatively internal) power source 61, which may
also directly or indirectly power the blower 201 and/or other
components of the system. The controller 60 alternatively could be
disposed in other parts of the system 100. The housing 71 of the
flow generator 201 comprises a connector 133 for coupling to a
corresponding connector 132 on the main housing 70. For example,
the connector might be a socket connector for coupling to pins on
the corresponding connector on the main housing. The connector 133
is for transferring power and/or data/signals (from the power
source and/or controller and/or sensors) between the flow generator
201 and the main housing 70, and for transfer to other parts of the
system. For example power can be transferred via the connector 133
to the flow generator from the main housing, or vice versa
depending on the position of the power source. Similarly, signals
from the controller can be transferred to other parts of the system
via the connector 1:33, and/or signals from sensors 65a to 65c from
other parts of the system can be transferred to the controller via
the connector 133. Other alternatives of power and/or signal flow
between various components could also be envisaged by those skilled
in the art.
[0096] Preferably, the base portion 70a of the respiratory system
main housing 70 and/or the base of the blower housing 71 are
configured to enable the blower housing 201 to be received on and
removed from the base portion 70a by sliding the blower housing 71
onto the base portion 70a/top surface 81 from the front of the
respiratory therapy system. There could be rail/Odes and/or other
detailing to achieve this. There is also preferably a locking
mechanism to lock the flow generator 200 to the base 81. It will be
appreciated by those skilled in the art that other forms of
attachment and removal of the blower from the housing could be
envisaged.
[0097] The gases humidifier 300 is a modular construction and is
detachably fixable (in part or in entirety) to the respiratory
therapy system 100, and preferably the base portion 70a thereof.
The humidifier 300 comprises a water chamber cartridge 80, with
four sides 80a-80d, a bottom 80e and an open top defining a chamber
85 for fluid (e.g. water). The back wall 80d comprises two openings
82, 83. The first opening 82 is a gases inlet to the water chamber
cartridge for receiving gases flow from the flow generator 200, The
second opening 83 is a humidified gases outlet from the water
chamber cartridge for emitting humidified gases flow from the
chamber destined for patient outlet 73a. The base 80e of the water
chamber cartridge comprises a heat conducting plate, such as an
aluminium plate, which may form part of or all of the base of the
water chamber cartridge 80. The base can comprise microstructures
and/or a hydrophilic coating to promote a thin layer of water to
spread.
[0098] The cartridge also comprises a lid 120 (shown in isolation
in FIGS. 12a--top view, 12b--bottom view) with a plate 121 that
sits over and rests atop the side walls 80a-80d, A ridge/recess 84
extends around the top of the side walls 80a-80d of the chamber 80
which corresponds to a similarly shaped perimeter of the lid 121 to
enable engagement and sealing of the lid 121 and the side walls
80a-80d to create a sealed (chamber) 85 in the water chamber
cartridge 80. The lid is kept closed tight using the geometry of
the housing compression). As shown in the diagrammatic insert in
FIG. 8, there is preferably a seal 84a (e.g. rubber or silicon
seal) also to provide a water and air seal between the lid and side
walls. The seal could alternatively be on the cartridge exterior.
The seal can help reduce leakage if the humidifier 300 is tilted.
The lid 121 can be locked onto the body of the water chamber
cartridge via a latch, spring or similar, if required. The lid also
comprises a baffle 127, comprising a bottom plate 122 that is
suspended from the bottom side of the lid plate 121 by a side
wall(s) 123. The baffle comprises a central dividing wall 124
extending from the lid plate 121 that divides the baffle into two
(preferably oblong/rectangular) sections with openings 125a, 126a
that correspond in position and shape to the inlet 82 and outlet 83
openings of the water chamber cartridge (which are preferably also
oblong/rectangular), The bottom plate 122 also comprises openings
125h, 126b either side of the dividing wall 124. Extending from the
bottom plate and part of the top plate is a wall 128 forming a
baffle/fin, with a truncated (preferably angled) end.
[0099] When the plate 121 of the lid 120 is positioned in place on
the side walls 80a-80d, the baffle 127 is suspended down off the
lid plate such that the apertures 125a, 126a align with the
apertures 82, 83 in the back wall 80d of the water chamber
cartridge 80 and the baffle wall 128 forms a barrier to section off
part of the chamber cartridge region 85. This forms a gases flow
path (show as arrows labelled "airflow") into the inlet aperture
125a, down through the aperture 125b, along the baffle 128 in the
first section of the chamber around the truncated end into the
second section of the chamber, up through the aperture 126h, along
the baffle section and through the outlet 126a. As the gases
travels from the aperture 125b to aperture 126h, it contacts heated
water in the chamber and becomes humidified.
[0100] The lid and in particular the baffle 127 and bottom plate
122 with airflow openings 125b, 126b near the centre of the
lid/chamber reduce the chances spillage of water out of the chamber
when tilted, for example when tilted at angles up to about <=20
degrees. This reduces the chance that water will back flow through
the openings 82, 83 into the flow generator, main housing and/or
other parts of the system if the chamber is tilted towards those
openings. This is because the openings 125b, 126b are positioned so
that during such tilting, the openings are raised above the water
level in the chamber. For example, the openings 125b, 1256 can be
placed as centrally as possible to reduce backflow risk
irrespective of which orientation the humidifier is tilted. Also,
the fin 128 is truncated to a length so that the gases flow path is
not blocked when the chamber is tilted away from the openings 82,
83. There is sufficient gap between the end of the fin 128 and the
chamber wall so that the water level does not block gases flow if
the chamber, humidifier or entire system is tilted. A further
mitigation for this is to have openings at either end of the
chamber. Baffles or other geometry are arranged to move air around
as much of chamber volume as possible.
[0101] FIG. 18 shows an alternative bottom side of the lid 120,
wherein a range of fins/baffles are formed as walls on the bottom
of the bottom plate and top plate. These increase the air flow path
length, which enables more uptake of moisture by the gas flow.
[0102] The back wall 80d of the water chamber cartridge 80 has a
fluid (e.g. water) inlet aperture/opening 130 (see FIG. 13),
preferably a circular opening, for coupling to the pump 86 (to be
described later) to receive humidifying fluid (e.g. water) into the
chamber 85. The water chamber cartridge 80 may have (optionally) a
detachable front fascia 79, which can clip onto the side walls 80a,
80c. The fascia may optionally be considered part of the water
chamber cartridge 80. The fascia alternatively can be fixed or
formed integrally with the water chamber cartridge. The fascia has
a rebate 78 to assist in removing the lid. Removing the lid allows
for access to the chamber for cleaning, emptying etc.
[0103] The base portion 70a of the main housing 70 comprises a slot
88 commensurable in size and shape for receiving the water chamber
cartridge 80. The slot forms a docking station for the cartridge.
Each side wall 88a, 88b of the slot comprises a locator extrusion
or other guide 89a, 89h, (such as a rail channel, or other
detailing) and there is a corresponding guide 86a, 86b, such as a
rail or other detailing, on each side of the water chamber
cartridge 80. The water chamber cartridge can be inserted into and
removed from the slot 88 by engaging the rails 86a, 86b and the
corresponding rail channels 89a, 89b and sliding the cartridge into
and out of the slot 88. Pinch clips/latches 131a, 131b on each side
of the water chamber cartridge lock it into position by engaging in
corresponding rebates 132a, 132b in the base portion 70a of the
main housing 70.
[0104] As shown in FIG. 10, the slot 88 in the main housing base
portion 70a comprises a heater plate 135 (or other heater source),
preferably in the form of the PCB heater. The PCB heater comprises
a tortuous path electrical track 138, with an intrinsic resistance.
Applying voltage and/or current to the track via terminals causes
resistance heating. The voltage and/or current is applied via
terminals in the slot 88 that couple directly or indirectly to
corresponding terminals on the PCB and/or cartridge when the
cartridge is inserted in the slot. The terminals could be at any
suitable location in the slot (side, back or bottom for example) to
contact the PCB. It will be appreciated that instead of terminals,
contacts, connectors, wires or the like can be used. The
voltage/current is provided from the controller 60 or alternatively
directly by a power source as described elsewhere herein. When the
water chamber cartridge 80 is inserted into the slot 88, the heat
conductive base 80e of the chamber cartridge 80 couples to the PCB
heater 135 in a heat conductive manner to transfer heat from the
PCB heater into water in the chamber 85 in order to heat the water.
Together, the water chamber cartridge 80, slot 88 and/or PCB heater
plate (alone or in combination) form part or all of the gases
humidifier 300. The water chamber cartridge and/or heater source
comprise a sensor(s) (shown as 65b, 65e in FIG. 7a) to sense
temperature, humidity, flow, pressure or other parameter of the
water or gases in the humidifier. Alternatively, these could be in
the gases flow path. The output from the sensors is provided to the
controller 60 to enable operation of the humidifier 300 based on
the sensor output, as required.
[0105] The heater source 135 is also coupled directly or indirectly
(e.g. via the controller) to an external or internal power source
61. This could be the same power source 61 for the controller 60,
or another power source. The controller 60 is coupled to and
operates the heater source (by controlling power to the heater
source) optionally based on output from one or more of the sensors
65a to 65c. In a preferred variation, the controller 60 provides
the power to the heater source. A safety mechanism can optionally
be provided to switch the power off if the tray is disengaged and
the heater is accessible.
[0106] Preferably, during use, there is a nominal amount of water
in the water chamber 80, an amount that is spread thinly over part
or all of the chamber base 80e. This is to improve heat transfer
rate to the water. As previously described, the base 80e of the
humidifier chamber cartridge 80 could comprise micro-channels or
other configurations to promote water spreading. Additionally,
there might be a hydrophilic coating or other type of coating which
promotes water spreading on the base 80e to improve heating rate of
the water in the chamber 85. Preferably, the depth of the water is
a maximum of limn, although that is not essential. There could be a
maximum of 3 mm or some other depth that is suitable. Those skilled
in the art will understand there is an optimisation between
spreading the water thinly to improve heat transfer, but not
spreading so thinly such that there is not suitable coverage of the
water and proper thermal coupling between the water and the
heater/conductor plate. As such, other depths of water could be
envisaged. Controlling the depth of water also provide mitigation
against spilling/backflow if the chamber, humidifier or entire
system is tilted. A shallower water level allows for more tilting
before spillage/backflow occurs.
[0107] The main housing 70 is shown in isolation in FIGS. 9A, 9B.
The upright portion 70h of the respiratory therapy system main
housing 70 holds a humidifier inlet conduit 72 which fluidly
couples the outlet 204 a the flow generator 200 to the inlet 82 of
the water cartridge chamber 80 to allow a passage of gases from the
flow generator 200 to the water chamber 85 for humidification. The
inlet conduit 72 comprises an inlet 72a (see FIGS. 9A, 9B) formed
in or extending through the upright portion housing 70h, and
configured for coupling to the outlet 204 on the flow generator
housing 200. Preferably, the inlet 72a of the humidifier inlet
conduit has a circular cross-section and is formed in and/or
extends through the upright portion 70b of the housing. The other
end of the humidifier inlet conduit 72 is shaped with a (preferably
oblong/rectangular) cross-section outlet 72b to match/correspond
with the inlet opening 82 shape on the back wall 80d of the water
chamber cartridge 80. There is a seal between the rectangular
outlet 72h of the humidifier inlet conduit 72 and the inlet 82 to
the water chamber 85 to prevent or reduce gases leakage so that the
gases flow from the flow generator enters the water chamber 85. The
seal can also prevent or reduce water leakage.
[0108] The upright portion 70h of the respiratory therapy system
main housing 70 also comprises a respiratory system outlet conduit
73 that fluidly couples the outlet 83 of the water chamber 85 to
the outlet 73a of the respiratory therapy system to allow passage
of humidified gases from the water chamber 85 to the outlet of the
respiratory therapy system, for transfer to a patient via a
breathing (gases) conduit 112 (e.g. heated or non-heated breathing
tube) and patient interface 116. Preferably, the outlet 73a of the
respiratory system outlet conduit 73 has a circular cross-section,
for a connection directly or indirectly to a breathing conduit
112/patient interface 116 (see FIG. 1). Preferably the outlet 73a
is funned in and/or extends through the upright portion 70h of the
main housing. The other end of the outlet conduit 73 is shaped with
a (preferably oblong/rectangular) cross-section inlet 73b to
match/correspond with the outlet opening 83 shape on the back wall
80d of the water chamber cartridge 80.
[0109] There is a seal between the rectangular inlet 73b of the
respiratory system outlet conduit 73 and the outlet 83 of the water
chamber 85 to prevent or reduce leakage so that the gases flow from
the chamber flows to the respiratory system outlet 73a. Preferably
the seals on the inlet/outlet of the back wall of the water chamber
cartridge are chamfered vertical seals positioned at the airflow
openings. Alternatively, a seal could be on the cartridge 80
exterior to achieve sealing. The cross-section of the water chamber
inlet 72 and respiratory system outlet 73 conduits transition from
an oblong/rectangular cross-section to a circular cross-section.
The cross-section at each point in the conduit can take the
necessary configuration to ensure that the cross-sectional area
remains constant throughout the conduit, if required.
[0110] The vertical arrangement of the inlet 72 and outlet 73
conduits, and the placement of the flow generator 200 above the
humidifier 300 reduces the chance of water ingress from the
humidifier into the flow generator 200, controllers, blower and/or
patient breathing tube 116/patient interface 112 (patient
circuit).
[0111] The housing 70 also comprises a metering arrangement/device
86. In this embodiment, the metering device is a pump 86, such as a
micro pump, gravity fed pump, peristaltic pump, piezo pump (double
or single with or without a valve) or any other pump described
herein, at the rear of the main housing 70. The pump 86, which is
shown in more detail in FIG. 14, has an inlet 91 exposed though the
rear wall of the main housing 70, and an outlet 92 from the pump
fluidly couples through the opening/water inlet 130 in the back
wall of the water chamber cartridge 85. There is a seal between the
pump outlet 92 and the inlet 130 into the water chamber cartridge.
This is a preferred arrangement of the pump, although it will be
appreciated that other pumps and configurations are possible. The
pump (optionally in combination with the controller) provides a
water metering arrangement/device. In an alternative, the metering
device could be an electronic valve, which would be used instead of
a pump.
[0112] The main housing 70 has the connector 132 with pins for
interconnection with the connector 133 on the flow generator and
therefore transfer of power and/or data/signals to/from the main
housing and the flow generator. As the main housing 70 contains the
humidifier and optionally sensors, this allows for power and signal
transfer between the various sensors 65a to 65c, the power source
61, the humidifier 300, the flow generator 200, user interface 62
and the controller 60 to enable control and operation of the
system.
[0113] As previously described, the respiratory system. 100 can
have one or more suitable power sources 61 for operating the
controller and/or providing power for the heater source and/or
blower. The power source can be internal in the main housing 70, or
elsewhere in the system 100. It alternatively can be external. The
power source might comprise multiple separate power sources. In one
option, the power source 61 is formed from an internal or external
battery source that is charged from an external or internal mains
power supply. In this case the battery could be the power source,
or both the battery and power supply could be deemed the power
source. In one option, shown in FIG. 7A, the power source 61 for
the controller 60 and blower 201 is an external mains power supply
that is coupled to the flow generator housing 71. The power source
for the pump 86 and the heating source 135 is an external power
supply that is coupled to the main housing 70, in another option,
the respiratory therapy apparatus 100 is powered generally from a
mains power supply and transmits this power to operate the flow
generator 200 via the connection port 133/terminal arrangement 132
with power pins. The power pins are formed and/or protrude through
the main housing 70 on the upright portion 70b, and the pins are
energised from the power supply. The flow generator housing 201 has
a corresponding port 133 that can electrically engage with the pins
132. When the flow generator housing 71 is introduced into the base
portion 70a, the port 133 aligns and engages with the power pins
terminal 132 and connects when the flow generator housing 200 is
slid into position. Power from the power supply can then be
transferred to the flow generator 200 for operation. The port
133/terminal 132 arrangement could also comprise signal connectors,
although these could optionally be separate. In an alternative, the
flow generator could be powered directly from the power supply and
transmit the power to the flow generator housing 71 and/or
humidifier via connection ports. Alternatively, inductive power
transfer could be used also or instead of the arrangement
above.
[0114] In an alternative embodiment, the PCB heater plate 135 could
be integrated into the water chamber cartridge. For example, it
could form part of the base.
[0115] In an alternative embodiment, an electrically conductive
polymer (ECP) could be used as a heater source 135 for heating. The
ECP could be a structure/material such as that described in US
2015/0265796 (which is incorporated herein by reference in its
entirety) also filed by the same applicants. Either, an ECP
structure, e.g. in the form of a heater plate 135, could be
substituted for the PCB heater as previously described, and a heat
conductive heater plate used in the water chamber cartridge; or
alternatively, the ECP could be moulded into or form part of the
bottom of the water chamber cartridge. Alternatively, or
additionally, ECP can be overmoulded a PCB with conductors to
provide power to the ECP for heating. Further or alternatively,
part or all of the chamber cartridge could be formed of ECP, and
energised to create the heater source. The ECP could be coupled to
any power source previously described. In another variation, the
heater source could be a ceramic or flexible element.
[0116] Where the heater source is integrated into or forms part of
the water chamber cartridge (e.g. where the chamber is ECP or the
PCB is the base), power pins 137a to 137d are located in water
chamber slot/compartment to power directly to water chamber via
corresponding power pins 136a to 136d on the chamber. These pins
could be located on any of the internal surfaces of the slot (side,
back or bottom) to make contact with the respective part(s) of the
water chamber. Power can be transferred to the heater source via
the pins 136a to 137d.
[0117] For example, FIGS. 16 and 17 show an alternative water
chamber cartridge that is formed as an ECP chamber. The walls of
the chamber are formed from ECP and can be coupled to a power
source such that the walls and/or base form the heat source. In
this case, no PCB or other heater plate is required, although
optionally the base could be ECP or some other heat source to
provide a heater plate also. As the ECP wall will become hot, the
front comprises an (optionally) detachable fascia 79 (see FIG. 17)
formed from a non or low-thermally conducting material or
(thermally insulating material). This protects a user when touching
the cartridge--e.g. when removing the cartridge from the housing
70.
[0118] FIGS. 19 to 22 shows yet a further alternative water chamber
cartridge (the main housing and some components are shown, but most
other components are omitted for clarity). In this variation, the
cartridge 80 is formed with walls in the same way as previously
(preferably as ECP), however the interior region 85 is formed as a
bowl 185. Water ingress is through an opening 130 via the pump 86
and settles in the howl.
[0119] The lid 180 comprises a top plate 181 that sits on the side
walls 80a to 80d on a perimeter recess of the water chamber
cartridge 80 in a manner similar to that previously described. A
baffle 182 is suspended below the top plate. An annular bottom
plate 183 is suspended from the top plate via a sloping wall 184
that is curved and sloped commensurate with the curvature and slope
of the bowl 185 so that when the lid 180 is seated in the cartridge
80, the wall and bottom plate will sit within the bowl. The curved
wall 184 does not extend all the way around the perimeter of the
circular bottom plate 183, but rather is open. A central dividing
wall 186 extends between the top plate 181 and the bottom plate 183
to divide the baffle 182 into first and second sections with a
corresponding inlet 187a and outlet 187b that correspond and align
with an inlet 185 and outlet 186 on the back wall of the water
chamber cartridge 80, in a similar manner to the previous
embodiments.
[0120] Two curved a walls or fins 1188a, 188h are suspended from
the bottom of the bottom plate 183 and a dividing wall/fin/baffle
189 extends between the two at right angles. This wall 189 and the
central wall 186 divide the annular opening in the bottom plate 183
into two separate openings 190a, 190b. The dividing wall 189 has a
curved bottom commensurate with the curve on the bottom of the bowl
185. When the lid is in place on the chamber cartridge, the
dividing wall 189 will sit on the bottom of the bowl 185 to
partially divide the bowl into two regions.
[0121] During use there is a gas flow path (see "airflow" arrows)
from the inlet 82 of the cartridge chamber through the inlet
opening 187a through the first opening 190a in the bottom plate 183
around the curve dividing walls 188a, 188b up through the second
opening 190b in the bottom plate through the outlet 187h and then
through the outlet 83 of the chamber 80. The gases flowing along
this path will collect moisture that sits in the bottom of the howl
185 and become humidified. An advantage of the bowl arrangement is
that if the chamber 80, or system as a whole, is tilted, there is
still a flat surface of water for the gas flow to flow over. The
chamber could have any heating source 135 previously described,
such as an ECP heat source.
[0122] Operation of the device will now be described. This can
apply to the embodiments above. The water chamber cartridge 80 is
assembled with the lid and then inserted into the main housing 70
by sliding the water chamber cartridge 80 into the slot 88 on the
rail/channels. The inlet 82 and outlet 83 openings fluidly couple
to the humidifier inlet 72 and respiratory therapy outlet 73
conduits; and the water inlet 130 of the water chamber 85 fluidly
couples to the outlet 92 of the pump 86. The flow generator 200 is
slid or otherwise installed on to the main housing 70 and the
outlet 204 of the flow generator 200 is sealingly coupled to the
inlet 72a of the humidifier inlet conduit 72. Also, the power
and/or data/signal port/connector 133 of the flow generator 200 is
coupled electrically to the terminals of the connector 132 on the
respiratory therapy system main housing 70.
[0123] A water source 69 (fluid supply) is coupled to the inlet of
the pump 86. The water supply 69 could be a bottle, container, bag,
reservoir or the like, or even a tap/faucet connected to a mains
water supply. A filter could be provided to filter the water, for
example to remove bacteria. A water level meter can be provided.
Preferably, the water supply is gravity fed. The pump 86 is coupled
to the water supply via a conduit, such as a fluid tube. The pump
can block the flow of water if required if the water supply is in a
high position. The water supply is preferably separate to the
system 100, but could optionally form part of the system. In an
alternative, the flow generator, humidifier cartridge chamber
and/or water source could be installed in a different order. A
breathing conduit 112 (e.g. heated breathing tube) is connected to
the outlet 73a and patient interface 116 is connected to the
conduit.
[0124] The respiratory therapy system 100 can then be switched on
and operated using the user interface in the usual manner. Under
control by the controller 60 and where required based on sensor 65a
to 65c output, the flow generator 200 (by way of the blower) will
create a flow of gases in the usual manner for a respiratory
therapy system and the gases will flow through the humidifier inlet
conduit 72 into the water chamber 85 for humidification. The
controller operates the pump 86 to provide a metering arrangement
to transfer water from the water reservoir to the water chamber 85.
This creates a thin layer of water over some or all of the base 80e
of the water chamber (or in the bowl if that is present),
preferably at a maximum of 2 mm of depth, or other depth as
previously described. The controller operates the heater 135
(either by energising the PCB heater and/or energising the ECP) to
create a heat which is then transferred through the base 80e (or
walls as where that is the embodiment) of the water chamber
cartridge 80 to heat the thin layer of water. Gases from the flow
generator 200 passes over the water, and absorbs moisture, thus
humidifying the gases. The gases then flow out through the outlet
conduit 73 for delivery to the patient through a breathing conduit
112 and patient interface 116 in the usual manner.
[0125] Variations to the embodiments described above are possible.
For example, power source(s) 61 can take various forms (mains,
battery, or both, for example) and can be positioned in various
locations, externally and/or internally. For example, the
humidifier module 300 might house (or connect to if external) the
power source 61 to power the flow generator 200 and humidifier 300
and pump 86, or alternatively the flow generator might house (or
connect to if external) the power source 61 to power the flow
generator 200 and humidifier 300 and pump 86. In yet a further
alternative, the main housing 70 might house (or connect to if
external) the power source to power the flow generator and
humidifier. A battery power source can improve provide cost,
convenience and travelling benefits.
[0126] In another variation, the controller 60 can reside in other
parts of the system 100, such as the humidifier 300 or the main
housing 70. Alternatively, there could be two or more controllers,
in the flow generator, humidifier, main housing or elsewhere.
[0127] The sensors can be located in any suitable location to
measure parameters (ambient or otherwise), relative or absolute for
use in control and operation of the system. As a further example,
tilt sensors, water level sensors water flow sensors, water
presence sensors (splash sensors), engagement detection sensors
(e.g. for detection engagement of the flow generator, water chamber
cartridge, power source, pump, water supply and or any other
component) can be disposed in the humidifier (or in the chamber of
the humidifier) or any other suitable part of the system 100.
[0128] In another variation, the metering device (such as pump or
valve) 86 could be near the water supply and optionally external
from the system 100.
[0129] The connector pair 132/133 can carry data/signals and/or
power. Or, alternatively, separate connector pairs could be used,
one for data/signals, and one for power.
[0130] In another variation a tilt/orientation sensor can be
provided and/or sensors on or around the heater to detect water
presence. The controller can use this input to provide a spillage
warning to a user.
[0131] Some configurations described (or some aspects or
combinations thereof) provide a small and portable device. This is
further assisted by the modular configuration and a preferably
separate water supply. The thin layer of water to be heated can
increase humidification response time. The configuration of the
chamber and inlet/outlets and conduits reduce the risk of water
ingress into the flow generator and/or electrical parts of the
system.
[0132] Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout
the description and the claims, the words "comprise", "comprising",
and the like, are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed
to an exclusive or exhaustive sense, that is to say, in the sense
of "including, but not limited to."
[0133] Where, in the foregoing description reference has been made
to integers or components having known equivalents thereof, those
integers or components are herein incorporated as if individually
set forth.
[0134] The disclosed methods, apparatus and systems may also be
said broadly to comprise the parts, elements and features referred
to or indicated in the disclosure, individually or collectively, in
any or all combinations of two or more of said parts, elements or
features.
[0135] Reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and
should not be taken as, an acknowledgement or any form of
suggestion that that prior art forms part of the common general
knowledge in the field of endeavour in any country in the
world.
[0136] Although the present disclosure has been described in terms
of certain embodiments, other embodiments apparent to those of
ordinary skill in the art also are within the scope of this
disclosure. Thus, various changes and modifications may be made
without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. For
instance, various components may be repositioned as desired.
Moreover, not all of the features, aspects and advantages are
necessarily required to practice the present disclosure.
Accordingly, the scope of the present disclosure is intended to be
defined only by the claims that follow.
* * * * *