U.S. patent application number 17/643147 was filed with the patent office on 2022-06-02 for substance delivery arrangement for gas therapy device.
The applicant listed for this patent is FISHER & PAYKEL HEALTHCARE LIMITED. Invention is credited to Robert Stuart KIRTON, Martin Paul Friedrich KRAMER, Kevin Peter O'DONNELL, Stanislav TATKOV.
Application Number | 20220168534 17/643147 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000006137909 |
Filed Date | 2022-06-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220168534 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
KIRTON; Robert Stuart ; et
al. |
June 2, 2022 |
SUBSTANCE DELIVERY ARRANGEMENT FOR GAS THERAPY DEVICE
Abstract
A mount provides a structure that facilitates coupling of a
nebuliser downstream of a humidifier chamber and upstream of a
conduit that delivers conditioned breathing gases to a patient or
user. The mount can couple together a chamber, a nebulizer and a
conduit.
Inventors: |
KIRTON; Robert Stuart;
(Auckland, NZ) ; O'DONNELL; Kevin Peter;
(Auckland, NZ) ; KRAMER; Martin Paul Friedrich;
(Auckland, NZ) ; TATKOV; Stanislav; (Auckland,
NZ) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
FISHER & PAYKEL HEALTHCARE LIMITED |
AUCKLAND |
|
NZ |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000006137909 |
Appl. No.: |
17/643147 |
Filed: |
December 7, 2021 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
15528740 |
May 22, 2017 |
11224713 |
|
|
PCT/NZ2015/050198 |
Nov 25, 2015 |
|
|
|
17643147 |
|
|
|
|
62084359 |
Nov 25, 2014 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61M 16/0833 20140204;
A61M 39/105 20130101; A61M 16/161 20140204; A61M 16/0816 20130101;
A61M 16/109 20140204; A61M 16/1095 20140204; A61M 15/0085 20130101;
A61M 16/16 20130101; A61M 2016/1025 20130101; A61M 2205/3368
20130101; A61M 2230/10 20130101; A61M 2205/3331 20130101; A61M
2230/202 20130101; A61M 2230/201 20130101; A61M 2230/04 20130101;
A61M 16/0858 20140204; A61M 16/14 20130101; A61M 16/085 20140204;
A61M 2205/3303 20130101; A61M 2230/205 20130101; A61M 2016/103
20130101; A61B 5/0813 20130101; A61M 11/005 20130101; A61M 39/10
20130101; A61M 16/12 20130101; A61M 16/0069 20140204 |
International
Class: |
A61M 16/08 20060101
A61M016/08; A61M 16/14 20060101 A61M016/14; A61M 16/00 20060101
A61M016/00; A61M 16/10 20060101 A61M016/10; A61M 16/16 20060101
A61M016/16; A61M 39/10 20060101 A61M039/10; A61B 5/08 20060101
A61B005/08; A61M 16/12 20060101 A61M016/12 |
Claims
1. (canceled)
2. (canceled)
3. (canceled)
4. (canceled)
5. (canceled)
6. (canceled)
7. A respiratory therapy system comprising: a flow generator
adapted to deliver gases to a patient; a patient interface; a gas
passageway extending between the flow generator and the patient
interface; and a nebuliser adapted to deliver a substance to at
least a first portion of the gas passageway, at least a section of
the gas passageway at and/or downstream of the first portion
comprising a smooth bore conduit.
8. The respiratory therapy system of claim 7, wherein a gas
humidifier is present at a point along the gas passageway.
9. The respiratory therapy system of claim 8, wherein the first
portion is downstream of the gas humidifier.
10. The respiratory therapy system of claim 9, wherein the smooth
bore conduit comprises a conduit heater.
11. The respiratory therapy system of claim 10, wherein the conduit
heater is located substantially outside of a flow path of gases
passing through the smooth bore conduit.
12.-32. (canceled)
33. The respiratory therapy system of claim 11, wherein the smooth
bore conduit comprises a bead and a bubble that combine to define a
smooth bore with minimal surface deviations.
34. The respiratory therapy system of claim 33, wherein the bead
comprises at least one resistive wire.
35. The respiratory therapy system of claim 33, wherein the smooth
bore of the smooth bore conduit has an internal diameter of 13-14
mm.
36. The respiratory therapy system of claim 33, wherein the smooth
bore of the smooth bore conduit has a surface roughness of
0.15-0.25 mm.
37. The respiratory therapy system of claim 7, wherein at least a
portion of the gas passageway downstream of the first portion of
the gas passageway comprises a breathable wall to transmit vapour
through the breathable wall.
38. The respiratory therapy system of claim 7, wherein the patient
interface comprises a full face mask, a nasal cannula, or an
endotracheal tube.
39. The respiratory therapy system of claim 7, wherein the flow
generator is controlled based on operation of the nebuliser.
40. The respiratory therapy system of claim 39, wherein a flow rate
from the flow generator is reduced prior to release of a substance
from the nebuliser into the gas passageway.
41. The respiratory therapy system of claim 8 further comprising at
least one sensor that detects at least one characteristic of gases
delivered to the patient and/or at least one health characteristic
of the patient.
42. The respiratory therapy system of claim 41, wherein the at
least one sensor is downstream of the gas humidifier.
43. The respiratory therapy system of claim 7 further comprising a
mount that connects the nebuliser and a portion of the gas
passageway.
44. The respiratory therapy system of claim 43, wherein the mount
comprises a first duct with at least one portion extending
vertically and at least one portion extending horizontally.
45. The respiratory therapy system of claim 44, wherein the mount
comprises an inlet port configured to receive the nebuliser.
46. The respiratory therapy system of claim 45, wherein the mount
connects to the gas humidifier.
47. The respiratory therapy system of claim 44, wherein the mount
comprises a second duct and, at a first portion, the first duct and
the second duct are separated by a first distance and, at a second
portion, the first duct and the second duct are separated by a
second distance.
Description
INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE
[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. This application is a continuation of U.S.
application Ser. No. 15/528,740, filed May 22, 2017, which is a
national phase entry of PCT/NZ2015/050198, filed Nov. 25, 2015,
which claims the priority benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 62/084,359, filed Nov. 25, 2014, each of which is
hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
[0002] In addition, WO2012/164407, filed 30 May 2012, which teaches
several different smooth bore tubing configurations and which
claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.
61/492,970, filed 3 Jun. 2011, and U.S. Provisional Patent No.
61/610,109, filed 13 Mar. 2012, are hereby incorporated by
reference in their entirety.
[0003] Moreover, PCT/NZ2013/000222, filed 4 Dec. 2013, which
teaches several different smooth bore tubing configurations and
which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.
61/733,360, filed 4 Dec. 2012, U.S. Provisional Patent Application
No. 61/733,359, filed 4 Dec. 2012, U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 61/877,622, filed 13 Sep. 2013, U.S. Provisional
Patent Application No. 61/877,566, filed 13 Sep. 2013, U.S.
Provisional Patent Application No. 61/877,784, filed 13 Sep. 2013,
and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/877,736, filed 13
Sep. 2013, are hereby incorporated by reference in their
entirety.
BACKGROUND
Technical Field
[0004] The present disclosure generally relates to respiratory
therapy. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to
nebuliser configurations for use with respiratory therapy
systems.
Description of the Related Art
[0005] A patient dealing with respiratory illness, for example
chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), can have difficulty
engaging in effective respiration. This difficulty may be the
result of a variety of physiological faults, including a breakdown
of lung tissue, dysfunctions of the small airways, excessive
accumulation of sputum, infection, genetic disorders, or cardiac
insufficiency. With such illnesses, it is useful to provide the
patient with a therapy that can improve the ventilation of the
patient. In some situations, the patient can be provided with a
respiratory therapy system that includes a gas source, an interface
that may be used to transmit gas to an airway of a patient, and a
conduit extending between the gas source and the interface. Gas
delivered to an airway of the patient from the gas source can help
to promote adequate ventilation of the patient. The gas source may,
for example, be a container of air and/or another gas suitable for
inspiration, e.g., oxygen or nitric oxide, a mechanical blower
capable of propelling a gas through the conduit to the interface,
or some combination of the above. The respiratory therapy system
can include a gas humidifier that can humidify and heat gases
passing through the respiratory therapy system to improve patient
comfort and/or improve the prognosis of the patient's respiratory
illness. The gas humidifier can include a water reservoir and a
heating element for heating the water in the reservoir. As the
water heats up, water vapor is formed, which can join the stream of
gases passing through the gas humidifier.
[0006] It can be advantageous to use a nebuliser with a respiratory
therapy system to, for example, deliver a medicinal substance to an
airway of a patient along with the delivery of respiratory gases to
the airway of the patient. In some cases, the nebuliser can be
actuated such that the nebulised substance is propelled along the
conduit extending between the gas source and the patient interface.
The flow passing along the conduit from the gas source to the
patient interface can aid in guiding the substance to the patient's
airway. However, the efficiency of substance delivery may be lower
than desired. A considerable portion of a dose of the medicinal
substance may, for example, stick to, settle along or become caught
on an internal wall of the conduit and not progress to the
patient's airway, particularly if moisture (e.g., introduced by a
humidifier used with the respiratory therapy system) has been
deposited on the internal wall of the conduit. The diminished
amount of the substance delivered to the patient can reduce the
efficacy of the therapy.
SUMMARY
[0007] Certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of
the configurations disclosed herein include the realization that
heated smooth bore tubing may be used to convey both respiratory
gases and nebulised substances to a patient's airway. The smooth
bore of the tubing may improve the efficiency of substance
transportation by reducing the tendency of the substance to stick
to or be caught on the internal walls of the tubing. Additionally,
particularly when a gas humidifier is used, the heat applied to the
tubing may reduce the condensation of moisture along the internal
walls of the tubing, which also reduces the tendency of the
substance to not travel the length of the tubing to the interface.
When the tube is dry, the tube is hydrophobic, but when the tube
becomes wet due to condensation, the tube loses its hydrophobicity
making the tube more likely to retain droplets of substance on the
wall of the tube.
[0008] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, there is
provided a mount configured for use within a respiratory system,
the mount being configured to join together a chamber, a
flow-generating respiratory apparatus, and a third component, the
mount comprising a duct, the duct defining a three-way port, the
duct configured to connect to an outflow port of the chamber, and
the duct comprising an auxiliary port for interaction with a flow
through the duct.
[0009] The auxiliary port may be configured for connection to at
least one of a nebuliser, a sensor, and a source of a trace
gas.
[0010] The duct may comprise a bend.
[0011] The mount may further comprise a second duct, the second
duct may have a bend and be configured to connect to an inflow port
of the chamber.
[0012] The auxiliary may port receive a cap, the cap may form a
removable sealed closure for the port.
[0013] The auxiliary port may be sized and configured to receive a
nebuliser. The auxiliary port may be sized and configured to
receive at least one of a sensor, and a source of a trace gas.
[0014] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there
is provided a respiratory therapy system comprising: a flow
generator adapted to deliver gases to a patient; a patient
interface; a gas passageway extending between the flow generator
and the patient interface; and a nebuliser adapted to deliver a
substance to at least a first portion of the gas passageway,
wherein at least a section of the gas passageway at and/or
downstream of the first portion comprises a smooth bore
conduit.
[0015] A gas humidifier may be present at a point along the gas
passageway.
[0016] The first portion may be downstream of the gas
humidifier.
[0017] The smooth bore conduit may comprise a conduit heater.
[0018] The conduit heater may be located substantially outside of
the flow path of gases passing through the smooth bore conduit.
[0019] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there
is provided a mount configured to couple a chamber to a
flow-generating respiratory apparatus, the mount comprising a duct
configured to connect to one of an inlet port or an outlet port of
the chamber, the duct also comprising an auxiliary port such that
the duct comprises a 3-way port, the duct having a flow inlet end
and a flow outlet end with the auxiliary port being positioned
between the inlet end and the outlet end.
[0020] The duct may be configured to connect to the outlet port of
the chamber.
[0021] The duct may comprise a bend.
[0022] The mount may also comprise a second duct configured to
connect to the inlet port of the chamber.
[0023] The auxiliary port may receive a cap, the cap may form a
removable sealed closure for the port.
[0024] The auxiliary port may be sized and configured to receive at
least one of a nebulizer, a sensor, and a source of a trace
gas.
[0025] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there
is provided a a nebuliser mount configured to couple a chamber to a
respiratory apparatus, the nebuliser mount comprising an outflow
duct, the outflow duct being configured to connect a post-chamber
port of the respiratory apparatus, a chamber outlet port and a
nebuliser port.
[0026] The nebuliser mount may comprise a cap that is connected to
the mount and that is configured to close the nebuliser port.
[0027] The nebuliser mount may further comprise an inflow duct, the
inflow duct may be configured to connect a pre-chamber port of the
respiratory apparatus and a chamber inlet port.
[0028] A first end of the inflow duct may be separated from a first
end of the outflow duct by a first distance between flow passage
centers and a second end of the inflow duct may be separated from a
second end of the outflow duct by a second distance between flow
passage centers that is greater than the first distance.
[0029] The outflow duct and the inflow duct may be integrated into
a single structure.
[0030] A bridge may join the outflow duct and the inflow duct.
[0031] The nebuliser mount may further comprise an outflow collar
that defines at least a portion of a fitting configured to join the
outflow duct to the post-chamber port and a medical taper may be
formed on an inner surface of the outflow collar.
[0032] The outflow collar may comprise a first axis and a portion
that is configured to connect to the chamber outlet port may
comprise a second axis, the first axis and the second axis being
generally normal to each other.
[0033] The outflow duct may comprise a first portion and a second
portion, the first portion being connected to the second portion by
an elbow.
[0034] The nebuliser port may be aligned with the first
portion.
[0035] The nebuliser port may be aligned with the second
portion.
[0036] The first portion may extend vertically.
[0037] The second portion may extend horizontally.
[0038] The second portion may comprise a first collar, the first
collar being positioned adjacent to the part of the mount that may
be configured to connect to the post-chamber port, and wherein the
nebuliser port may be surrounded by a second collar.
[0039] The first collar and the second collar may be disposed at
opposite ends of the second portion of the outflow duct.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0040] Specific embodiments and modifications thereof will become
apparent to those skilled in the art from the detailed description
having reference to the figures that follow, of which:
[0041] FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of a respiratory therapy
system.
[0042] FIG. 2 is a perspective of a respiratory therapy system
arranged and configured in accordance with certain features,
aspects and advantages of the present embodiment.
[0043] FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of a portion of the system of
FIG. 2.
[0044] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the system of FIG. 2 with
the nebuliser removed and a cap in place.
[0045] FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of a portion of the system of
FIG. 4.
[0046] FIGS. 6-13 are views of a mount that is arranged and
configured in accordance with certain features, aspects and
advantages of the present embodiment, which mount is shown in FIGS.
2-5.
[0047] FIG. 14 is a view of another respiratory therapy system
having a different mount.
[0048] FIG. 15 is another view of system of FIG. 14 with the
nebuliser removed.
[0049] FIG. 16 is a sectioned view of a smooth bore conduit.
[0050] FIG. 17 is a sectioned view of a corrugated conduit.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Overall System
[0051] With reference to FIG. 1, a configuration for a respiratory
therapy system 100 is shown. In the illustrated configuration, the
respiratory therapy system 100 may comprise a flow generator
101.
[0052] The illustrated flow generator 101 comprises a gas inlet 102
and a gas outlet 104. The flow generator 101 also may comprise a
blower 106. The blower 106 can draw in gas from the gas inlet 102.
In some configurations, the flow generator 101 can comprise a
source or container of compressed gas (e.g., air, oxygen, etc.).
The container can comprise a valve that can be adjusted to control
the flow of gas leaving the container. In some configurations, the
flow generator 101 can use such a source of compressed gas and/or
another gas source in lieu of the blower 106. In some
configurations, the blower 106 can be used in conjunction with
another gas source. In some configurations, the blower 106 can
comprise a motorized blower or can comprise a bellows arrangement
or some other structure capable of generating a gas flow. In some
configurations, the flow generator 101 draws in atmospheric gases
through the gas inlet 102. In some configurations, the flow
generator 101 is adapted both to draw in atmospheric gases through
the gas inlet 102 and to accept other gases (e.g., oxygen, nitric
oxide, carbon dioxide, etc.) through the same gas inlet 102 or a
different gas inlet. Other configurations also are possible.
[0053] The illustrated flow generator 101 comprises a user control
interface 108. The user control interface 108 can comprise one or
more buttons, knobs, dials, switches, levers, touch screens,
speakers, displays, and/or other input or output modules that a
user might use to input commands into the flow generator 101, to
view data, and/or to control operations of the flow generator 101,
and/or to control operations of other aspects of the respiratory
therapy system 100.
[0054] The flow generator 101 can direct gas through the gas outlet
104 to a first conduit 110. In the illustrated configuration, the
first conduit 110 channels the gas to a gas humidifier 112.
[0055] The gas humidifier 112 is used to entrain moisture in the
gas in order to provide a humidified gas stream. The illustrated
gas humidifier 112 comprises a humidifier inlet 116 and a
humidifier outlet 118. The gas humidifier 112 can comprise, be
configured to contain or contain water or another humidifying or
moisturizing agent (hereinafter referred to as water).
[0056] In some configurations, the gas humidifier 112 comprises a
heating element (not shown). The heating element can be used to
heat the water in the gas humidifier 112 to encourage water
vaporization and/or entrainment in the gas flow and/or increase the
temperature of gases passing through the gas humidifier 112. The
heating element can, for example, comprise a resistive metallic
heating plate. However, other heating elements are contemplated.
For example, the heating element could comprise a plastic
electrically conductive heating plate or a chemical heating system
having a controllable heat output.
[0057] In the illustrated configuration, the gas humidifier 112
comprises a user control interface 120. The user control interface
120 comprises one or more buttons, knobs, dials, switches, levers,
touch screens, speakers, displays and/or other input or output
modules that a user might use to input commands into the gas
humidifier 112, to view data, and/or to control operations of the
gas humidifier 112, and/or control operations of other aspects of
the respiratory therapy system 100.
[0058] In some configurations, the flow generator 101 and the gas
humidifier 112 may share a housing 126. In some configurations, the
gas humidifier 112 may share only part of the housing 126 with the
flow generator 101. Other configurations also are possible.
[0059] In the illustrated configuration, gas travels from the
humidifier outlet 118 to a second conduit 122. The second conduit
122 can comprise a conduit heater (e.g., see wires 308 in FIG. 16).
The conduit heater can be used to add heat to gases passing through
the second conduit 122. The heat can reduce or eliminate the
likelihood of condensation of water entrained in the gas stream
along a wall of the second conduit 122. The conduit heater can
comprise one or more resistive wires located in, on, around or near
a wall of the second conduit 122. In one or more configuration,
such one or more resistive wires can be located outside of any gas
passage. In one or more configurations, such one or more resistive
wires are not in direct contact with the gases passing through the
second conduit 122. In one or more configurations, a wall or
surface of the second conduit 122 intercedes between the one or
more resistive wires and the gases passing through the second
conduit 122.
[0060] Gas passing through the second conduit 122 can be delivered
to a patient treatment interface 124. The patient treatment
interface 124 can pneumatically link the respiratory therapy system
100 to an airway of a patient. In some configurations, the
respiratory therapy system 100 utilizes a two-limb system
comprising separate inspiratory and expiratory gas passageways that
interface with one or more airways of the patient.
[0061] The patient treatment interface 124 can comprise a sealing
or non-sealing interface, and can comprise a nasal mask, an oral
mask, an oro-nasal mask, a full face mask, a nasal pillows mask, a
nasal cannula, an endotracheal tube, a combination of the above or
some other gas conveying system. In some configurations, a short
length of tubing connects the interface to the second conduit 122.
In some configurations, the short length of tubing can have a
smooth bore, as described elsewhere herein. For example, a short
flexible length of tubing can connect a nasal cannula or the like
to the second conduit 122. The short length of tubing connecting
the interface to the second conduit 122 may be breathable such that
it allows the transmission of vapour through the wall of the tube.
In some configurations, the short length of tubing can incorporate
one or more heating wires as described elsewhere herein. The smooth
bore, whether heated or not, can improve the efficiency in
delivering nebulised substances, as described elsewhere herein. Any
other suitable patient treatment interface 124 can be used.
[0062] With continued reference to FIG. 1, in some configurations,
a nebuliser 128 can be used with the respiratory therapy system
100. In some configurations, if a nebuliser 128 is used, the flow
generator 101, the gas humidifier 112, and the nebuliser 128 can
share the housing 126. In some configurations, the nebuliser 128 is
separate of the housing 126. The nebuliser 128 can be linked to a
portion of the gas passageway extending between the flow generator
101 (which may include the gas inlet 102) and the patient interface
124, although other arrangements for the nebuliser 128 or another
nebuliser may be utilized. In some configurations, the nebuliser
128 is not positioned in-line in any location between the
humidifier outlet 118 and the patient interface 124. Rather, the
nebuliser 128 is positioned upstream of the humidifier outlet 118
or upstream of the inlet to the second conduit 122. In some
configurations, the nebuliser 128 can be positioned upstream of an
inlet into the humidifier. In some configurations, the nebulizer
128 can be positioned between the source of gases flow and the
chamber.
[0063] The nebuliser 128 can comprise a substance (e.g., a
medicinal substance, trace gases, etc.) that can be introduced into
the gas flow. The substance can be caught up in the gas flow and
can be delivered along with respiratory gases to an airway of the
patient. The nebuliser 128 can be linked to the portion of the gas
passageway by a conveyor 130, which can comprise a conduit or an
adaptor. Alternatively, the nebuliser 128 can interface directly
with the gas passageway, which can render the conveyor 130
unnecessary. For convenience, the term "nebuliser" has been used to
identify a component or assembly capable of introducing any desired
substance into the gases flow. In some configurations, a sensor,
probe or the like can also be introduced into the gases flow. As
used herein, the term "introduced element" encompasses both
substances (e.g., medicines, medicaments, trace gases, and the
like) as well as components (e.g., sensors, probes, and the
like).
[0064] In the illustrated configuration, and as implied above, the
respiratory therapy system 100 can operate as follows. Gas can be
drawn into the flow generator 101 through the gas inlet 102 due to
the rotation of an impeller of the motor of the blower 106. The gas
is propelled out of the gas outlet 104 and through the first
conduit 110. The gas enters the gas humidifier 112 through the
humidifier inlet 116. Once in the gas humidifier 112, the gas
entrains moisture when passing over or near water in the gas
humidifier 112. The water is heated by the heating element, which
aids in the humidification and/or heating of the gas passing
through the gas humidifier 112. The gas leaves the gas humidifier
112 through the humidifier outlet 118 and enters the second conduit
122. Prior to entering the second conduit 122, the gas receives one
or more substance from the nebuliser. The gas is passed from the
second conduit 122 to the patient interface 124, where the gas is
taken into the patient's airways to aid in the treatment of
respiratory disorders.
[0065] Respiratory Therapy System with First Adaptor
Configuration
[0066] FIG. 2 illustrates an embodiment of a respiratory therapy
system 200 similar to that described in FIG. 1.
[0067] In the configuration illustrated in FIG. 2, the respiratory
therapy system 200 incorporates a humidifier with an integrated
flow generator. In other words, in the illustrated configuration, a
housing 202 contains a flow generator (not shown) and at least a
portion of a gas humidifier 204. In the illustrated configuration,
the flow generator and the gas humidifier 204 together form an
integrated unit 206. In some configurations, the humidifier with
the integrated flow generator can be the apparatus sold under the
name AIRVO.TM. 2 by Fisher & Paykel Healthcare. Such an
apparatus is shown and described, for example, in U.S. Pat. No.
7,111,624, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its
entirety. Any other suitable configuration can be used and the
configuration of FIG. 2 can be configured with any of the
components or configurations described above. Specifically, the
flow generator and the humidifier need not be an integrated unit;
however, solely for simplicity of description, the following
discussion will simply refer to the integrated unit 206.
[0068] The gas humidifier 204 in the illustrated integrated unit
206 employs a chamber 210. The chamber 210 can have any suitable
configuration, including any configuration shown and/or described
in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,146,979 and/or 6,349,722, each of which is
hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. The chamber 210
can contain or hold a volume of liquid, such as water, that is used
to humidify gases as they pass through the chamber. In some
configurations, the chamber 210 simply defines a location in the
system where liquid, such as water, is transferred into the gases
stream or flow of gases.
[0069] As discussed above, gases that have been conditioned (e.g.,
heated and/or humidified) within the integrated unit 206 can be
conveyed to a patient or other user. In some configurations, a tube
or conduit (not shown) is used to convey the gases to the patient
or other user. Some examples of conduits or tubes that can be used
with the integrated unit 206 include, but are not limited to, those
shown and described in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2014/0202462A1
(also published as WO2012/164407A1) and WO2014/088430, each of
which being hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Any
other suitable conduits or tubes also can be used.
[0070] With continued reference to FIG. 2, a nebuliser 212 can be
attached to the integrated unit 206. In some configurations, the
nebuliser 212 can be positioned upstream of the humidifier chamber
210. In some configurations, the nebuliser 212 can be positioned
downstream of the humidifier chamber 210. In some configurations, a
cap (shown in FIG. 4) can close the location at which the nebuliser
212 can attach when the nebuliser is not attached to the integrated
unit 206. The cap can have any suitable configuration. In some
configurations, the cap overlies the nebuliser port. In some
configurations, the cap inserts into the nebuliser port. The cap
can be tethered to the mount 230. By connecting the cap at or
proximate to the nebuliser port, the cap is less likely to be
misplaced when the nebuliser 212 is inserted into the nebuliser
port (and the cap is removed). In some configurations, the cap is a
silicone component. In some configurations, the cap incorporates
one or more sealing elements. In some configurations, the cap
incorporates one or more silicone sealing elements.
[0071] The nebuliser 212 produces a fine spray of liquid. The fine
spray of liquid is introduced into the flow of conditioned gases or
pre-conditioned gases. Any suitable nebuliser 212 can be used. In
some configurations, the nebuliser 212 is the Aerogen Aeroneb.RTM.
Solo nebuliser. In the illustrated configuration, an outlet of the
nebuliser 212 is positioned between the chamber 210 and the conduit
or tube 122. In some configurations, the nebuliser 212 is
configured and positioned to inject the fine spray of liquid into a
conditioned gas flow downstream of the chamber 210 and upstream of
the conduit 122 that connects a patient interface to the integrated
unit 206. In some configurations, the nebuliser 212 is configured
and positioned to inject the fine spray of liquid into the
conditioned gas flow downstream of the chamber 210 and upstream of
a connection location of the removable conduit 122 and the
integrated unit 206. In some configurations, the nebuliser 212 is
configured and positioned to inject the fine spray of liquid into
the gas flow prior to entry into the chamber 210. In some
configurations, the nebuliser 212 is configured and positioned to
inject the fine spray of liquid into the gas flow during entry into
the chamber 210. In some configurations, the nebuliser 212 is
configured and positioned to inject the fine spray of liquid into
the gas flow following entry into the chamber 210. In some
configurations, the nebuliser 212 is configured and positioned to
inject the fine spray of liquid into the gas flow prior to exit
from the chamber 210. In some configurations, the nebuliser 212 is
configured and positioned to inject the fine spray of liquid into
the gas flow during exit from the chamber 210. In some
configurations, the nebuliser 212 is configured and positioned to
inject the fine spray of liquid into the gas flow following exit
from the chamber 210. In some of these configurations, rather than
injecting a fine spray of liquid or having the nebuliser, other
substances can be injected in the identified locations or other
components, such as a sensor or the like, can be inserted in the
identified locations.
[0072] In the illustrated configuration, the integrated unit 206
comprises a pre-chamber port 214 and a post-chamber port 216. As
shown in FIG. 3, the pre-chamber port 214 receives flow from the
flow generator and delivers the flow into the chamber 210 through a
chamber inlet port 220. Flow is delivered from a chamber outlet
port 222 to the post-chamber port 216. With reference again to FIG.
2, the post-chamber port 216 is fluidly connected to a unit outlet
port 224. In some configurations, the post-chamber port 216 and the
unit outlet port 224 are opposing ends of a single conduit or
lumen. Other configurations are possible. The unit outlet port 224
can connect with the hose or conduit 122 such that gases can be
conveyed from the integrated unit 226 to the patient interface 124.
The hose or conduit can be removably attached to the unit outlet
port 224.
[0073] With reference to FIG. 2, a mount 230 is used to join
together the chamber 210, the integrated unit 206 and the nebuliser
212 or other suitable component. As will be described, the mount
230 facilitates the introduction of the fine mist from the
nebuliser 212 into gases traveling from the chamber 210 to the unit
outlet port 224, which gases ultimately travel to the conduit or
tube that delivers the gases from the integrated unit 226 to the
patient interface. Where other components are used, the mount can
facilitate the introduction of other substances (e.g., a
medicament, a trace gas, nitric oxide or the like) or components
(e.g., a sensor, or the like).
[0074] With reference now to FIG. 4, the illustrated mount 230 is
arranged and configured to connect at least the chamber outlet port
222 and the post-chamber port 216 while also connecting to the
nebuliser 212 with a nebuliser port 234. In some configurations,
the mount 230 is arranged and configured to connect at least the
chamber inlet port 220 and the pre-chamber port 214 while also
connecting to the nebuliser with the nebuliser port 234. In some
configurations, the nebuliser 212 is supported by the nebuliser
port 234. An outflow duct 232 connects at least the chamber outlet
port 222 and the post-chamber port 216. In the illustrated
configuration, the outflow duct 232 also connects the nebuliser
port 234 and the post-chamber port 216. Thus, in the illustrated
configuration, the outflow duct 232 connects the post-chamber port
216 of the integrated unit 206, the chamber outlet port 222 of the
chamber 210 and the nebuliser port 234. Broadly speaking, the mount
230 is adapted to connect the nebulizer 212, the chamber 210 and
the integrated unit 206.
[0075] In the illustrated configuration, the mount 230 also is
arranged and configured to connect the chamber inlet port 220 and
the pre-chamber port 214. In particular, an inflow duct 236
connects the pre-chamber port 214 and the chamber inlet port 220.
Other configurations are possible.
[0076] In the illustrated configuration, as shown in FIGS. 6-13,
the mount 230 can comprise the outflow duct 232 and the inflow duct
236 in a single structure. While providing the outflow duct 232 and
the inflow duct 236 as separate components is possible, integrating
or physically connecting the two ducts 232, 236 simplifies assembly
and reduces the likelihood of misplacing one of the two ducts 232,
236. In addition, integrating or physically connecting the two
ducts 232, 236 provides visual guidance regarding proper
installation orientation. In the illustrated configuration, a
bridge 240 spans a distance between a portion of the outflow duct
232 and a portion of the inflow duct 236. The bridge 240 joins the
two ducts 232, 236.
[0077] In the illustrated configuration, a collar 242 defines at
least a portion of a fitting that is used to join the outflow duct
232 to the post-chamber port 216. Similarly, another collar 244
defines at least a portion of a fitting that is used to join the
inflow duct 236 to the pre-chamber port. Each of the collars 242,
244 can include a medical taper on an inner surface. The medical
tapers can be used to couple and seal the ducts 232, 236 to the
ports 214, 216 of the integrated unit 206. Other securing
arrangements (e.g., tapers, threads, friction fits, luer locks,
interlocking mechanical components, etc.) also can be used.
[0078] In the illustrated configuration, the bridge 240 joins the
collars 242, 244 of the ducts 232, 236. By positioning the bridge
240 on the collars 242, 244, the bridge 240 can be positioned in a
region of the integrated unit 206 that will be out of the way of
other components of the system 200. As shown in FIG. 13, the
illustrated bridge 240 can have an inverted U-shape with a hollow
center, for example but without limitation.
[0079] In the illustrated configuration, the bridge 240 also
includes a mount 246. The mount 246 can comprise two fingers, ears,
tabs or the like. The mount 246 is sized and configured to receive
a tube of a feedset. The feedset is a component that can attach to
a liquid source, such as an IV bag, and that can define a passage
for fluid to flow into the chamber. The illustrated mount 246 faces
outward or away from the ports 214, 216 of the integrated unit 206.
Such a positioning allows securing of the feedset with the mount
246 while the chamber 210 is docked into the integrated unit
206.
[0080] With continued reference to FIGS. 6-13, the mount 230 is
arranged and configured to connect the ports 214, 216 of the
integrated unit 206 with the ports 220, 222 of the chamber 210. The
ports 214, 216 extend horizontally while the ports 220, 222 extend
vertically. In some configurations, the portion of the mount 230
that is arranged and configured to connect to the ports 214, 216 of
the integrated unit comprise first axes and the portion of the
mount 230 that is arranged and configured to connect to the ports
220, 222 of the chamber comprise second axes that are generally
normal to the first axes. In addition, in the illustrated
configuration, the ports 214, 216 have a smaller centerline
distance relative to the ports 220, 222. In other words, a first
end of the inflow duct is separated from a first end of the outflow
duct by a first distance between flow passage centers and a second
end of the inflow duct is separated from a second end of the
outflow duct by a second distance between flow passage centers that
is greater than the first distance. Thus, the mount 230 is arranged
and configured to alter the direction of flow from one end of the
ducts 232, 236 to the other end of the ducts 232, 236 while also
adjusting the centerline distance, or gap between the ducts, from
one end of the ducts 232, 236 to the other end of the ducts 232,
236.
[0081] As illustrated in FIG. 6, the outflow duct 232 comprises a
first portion 250 and a second portion 252 that are connected at a
bend or elbow 254. In the illustrated configuration, the first
portion 250 extends vertically. In the illustrated configuration,
the second portion 252 extends horizontally. Other configurations
are possible. The first portion 250 can include an internal taper
or the like. The first portion seals or mates with an outer surface
of the chamber outlet port 222. The second portion can include the
collar 242. As described above, the collar 242 seals or mates with
the post-chamber port 216.
[0082] In the illustrated configuration, the second portion 252
comprises a second collar 256. The second collar 256 can be at an
opposite end of the second portion 252 relative to the collar 242.
In the illustrated configuration, the bend 254 is interposed
between the two collars 242, 256. The second collar 256 can be
sized and configured to mate or seal with the nebuliser 212. The
second collar 256 defines a port. In some configurations, the port
can be an auxiliary port that is configured to receive one or more
auxiliary components. For example, the auxiliary components can
include a nebuliser 212. In the illustrated configuration, the
nebuliser 212 is received within the second collar 256. More
particularly, in the illustrated configuration, the inner surface
of the second collar 256 includes a tapered surface that mates or
seals with the outer surface of the nebuliser 212. Other
configurations are possible.
[0083] As illustrated in FIG. 8, the first collar 242 and the
second collar 256 are disposed at opposite ends of the second
portion 252 of the outflow duct 232. The second portion 252 of the
illustrated outflow duct 232 is a straight section of tubing or the
like. In other words, in the illustrated configuration, the first
collar 242 and the second collar 256 are aligned along a single
axis that extends through the second portion 252 of the outflow
duct 232. In some configurations, a single plane that extends along
the central axis of the second portion 252 of the outflow duct 232
bisects the first collar 242 and the second collar 256, as shown in
FIG. 9. As also shown in FIG. 9, while there is a lumen defined
within the first portion 250 of the outflow duct 232, if the single
plane extends vertically and along the central axis of the second
portion 252 of the outflow duct 232, the single plane does not
intersect the lumen defined within the first portion 250. Rather,
such a plane intersects a wall that defines the lumen of the first
portion 250. Other configurations are possible.
[0084] With reference to FIG. 11, as shown, a curved wall 260 is
positioned at or adjacent to an intersection of the first portion
250 and the second portion 252 of the outflow duct 232. The curved
wall 260 induces a flow at the transition between the first portion
250 and the second portion 252 to aid maintaining the fine mist
from the nebuliser 212 in suspension within the conditioned gas
flow. Other configurations are possible.
[0085] With reference to FIG. 7, the inflow duct 236 comprises a
first portion 264 and a second portion 266. Like the outflow duct
232, the first portions 264 and the second portion 266 are not
axially aligned. The first portion 264 is vertical. The second
portion 266 is horizontal. The two portions 264, 266 are joined at
a bend or elbow 268. The first portion 264 mates or seals with the
chamber inlet port 220. The collar 242 of the second portion 266
mates or seals with the pre-chamber port 216.
[0086] With the mount 230 in position, gases pass from the flow
generator to the pre-chamber port 220. From the pre-chamber port
220, the gases pass through the inflow duct 236 to the chamber
inlet port 220. From the chamber inlet port 220, the gases flow
through the chamber 210 and gain heat and/or humidity before
flowing out of the chamber outlet port 222. From the chamber outlet
port 222, the gases pass through the outflow duct 232 before
flowing to the post-chamber port 216. From the post-chamber port
216, the gases flow to the unit outlet port 224. As shown in FIG.
4, a conduit 270 can be connected to the unit outlet port 224 and
the gases can travel through the conduit 270 to the patient or
other user.
Respiratory Therapy System with Second Adaptor Configuration
[0087] With reference now to FIGS. 14 and 15, a second
configuration of the mount 230' is illustrated. The second
configuration of the mount 230' is configured the same as the first
configuration of the mount 230 with the exception of the outflow
duct 232'.
[0088] In the second configuration of the mount 230', the outflow
duct 232' comprises a first portion 250' and a second portion 252'
that are connected at a bend or elbow 254'. The first portion 250'
extends vertically in the illustrated configuration. The
illustrated second portion 252' extends horizontally. The second
portion 252' intersects the first portion 250' at an intermediate
location along the length of the first portion 250'. Other
configurations are possible.
[0089] In the illustrated configuration, the first portion 250' can
include an internal taper or the like. The first portion 250' seals
or mates with an outer surface of the chamber outlet port 222'. The
second portion can include the collar 242'. As described above, the
collar 242' seals or mates with the post-chamber port 216'.
[0090] In the illustrated configuration, the first portion 250'
comprises a second collar 256'. The second collar 256' is at an
opposite end of the first portion 250' relative to the portion that
connects to the chamber outlet port 222'. The second collar 256'
can be sized and configured to mate or seal with the nebuliser
212'. In the illustrated configuration, the nebuliser 212' is
received within the second collar 256'. More particularly, in the
illustrated configuration, the inner surface of the second collar
256' includes a tapered surface that mates or seals with the outer
surface of the nebuliser 212'. Other configurations are
possible.
[0091] As illustrated in FIG. 14, the end of the first portion 250'
proximate the chamber 210' and the second collar 256' are disposed
at opposite ends of the first portion 250' of the outflow duct
232'. The first portion 250' of the outflow duct 232' can be a
straight section of tubing or the like. In other words, in the
illustrated configuration, the first end and the second collar 256'
are aligned along a single axis that extends through the first
portion 250' of the outflow duct 232'. In some configurations, a
single plane that extends along the central axis of the first
portion 250' of the outflow duct 232' bisects the first end and the
second collar 256'. Other configurations are possible.
[0092] High Flow Therapy with Nebuliser and Smooth Bore Tubing
[0093] With reference to FIGS. 16 and 17, two different types of
tubing or conduit are represented in section. In FIG. 16, tubing or
conduit 300 is illustrated featuring a smooth bore 302 or a
non-corrugated bore. This type of tubing is best described and
illustrated in in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2014/0202462A1 (also
published as WO2012/164407A1) and WO2014/088430, for example, each
of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. As
described therein, the tubing is formed of a bead 304 and a small
tube or bubble 306. In general, the peak to valley surface
roughness of such tubing is on the order of 0.15-0.25 mm. In one
configuration, the conduit or tubing has an internal bore diameter
of 13-14 mm. The two components 304, 306 combine to define a
conduit or tube with a lumen that has minimal surface deviations.
In some configurations, the bead 304 contains wires 308. One or
more of the wires can be used for heating the wall of the conduit
without being positioned within the flow being conveyed by the
conduit or tubing 300. In the illustrated configuration, the bead
304 contains four wires 308. In some configurations, the bead 304
may contain two wires 308. Other number of wires also can be
used.
[0094] With reference to FIG. 17, the illustrated conduit or tubing
320 is corrugated tubing. In one configuration, the conduit or
tubing 320 has an internal bore diameter of 20-21 mm. The
corrugated tubing 320 includes deep furrows 322 along a wall 324 of
the tubing 320. In many cases, the furrows 322 result in one or
more helical interruption that extends along a length of the lumen
defined by the wall 324. As such, the inner surface of the conduit
or tubing is significantly rougher than the smooth bore tubing 300
illustrated in FIG. 17. In general, the corrugated conduit or
tubing has peak to valley surface roughness on the order of 1.5-2.5
mm. In the illustrated configuration of FIG. 17, one or more
heating wires 326 also can be coiled and positioned in direct
contact with the gas flow through the lumen. When the wires are
positioned within the gas flow path, the heater wire adds 2-3 mm of
added "surface roughness" although this is merely an estimate of
the effect of the heater wire being positioned within the gas flow
path.
[0095] Surprisingly, use of the smooth bore heating tube 300, such
as that illustrated in FIG. 16, for use in drug transportation from
the nebuliser 212/212' described above, has resulted in significant
increases in drug transportation efficiency compared to use of a
more conventional heated breathing tube 320, such as that
illustrated in FIG. 17. The efficiency improvement is believed to
be due to a large reduction of the amount of nebulised drug being
caught within the furrows 322 and the exposed heating wires 326 of
the more conventional heated breathing tube 320. For example, it
has been estimated that 300% more of the nebulised drug is captured
by the surfaces than that which is retained within the smooth bore
heated breathing tube 300, such as that shown in FIG. 16, for
example but without limitation. It is believed there is a reduction
in the deposition processes, such as impaction, due to less
vorticity in the flow and less obstacles that present an effective
roughness.
[0096] A test was conducted in which a nebuliser solution was
injected into a gas stream using the configuration described above.
The nebuliser solution was a mixture of sodium chloride and green
food coloring. The sodium chloride was at a 7% concentration in a
volume of 90 ml (available from BioMed Limited in Auckland, NZ).
The weight NaCl per 90 ml bottle was 6.3 grams, which results in a
weight NaCl/ml of 0.07 grams/ml. The dosage used was 3 ml, which
resulted in a dose of NaCl of 0.21 grams. The green food coloring
had a concentration of 2.10% in a volume of 50 ml. The weight of
the color per 50 ml bottle was 1.05 grams. The weight of color/ml
was 0.021 grams. The mixture was 90 ml of NaCl 7% with 9 ml added
food coloring. As such, the fraction of NaCl solution was 0.8889
and the fraction of the food coloring was 0.1111. The total drug
volume was 3 ml, which resulted in a volume of NaCl solution of
2.666667 ml and a volume of 0.333333 ml of food coloring. A
2.666667 ml nebuliser solution volume included 0.333333 ml of food
coloring (10%), which resulted in a weight of 0.007 grams of
coloring, 0.186667 grams of NaCl. Thus, the total dry weight of the
drug was 0.193667 grams. The following represents the results
obtained.
TABLE-US-00001 Ratio of Vol. Overall Green current Drug Water
Dilution Dilution Meas. "salt" Color % of to 10 ml Experiment
Delivered Weight Factor Correction Salinity content 0 = most Total
bubble Corrugated 3 ml 134.646 5:50 11 109.8 162625.4 1 20.2% 3.86
HBT at 10 lpm Bubble 3 ml 95.123 5:25 6 73.8 42120.46 3 5.2% 1.00
HBT at 10 lpm Corrugated 3 ml 157.492 5:50 11 72.2 125080.1 2 15.5%
2.97 HBT at 30 lpm Bubble 3 ml 104.473 10:50 6 122.7 76913.02 3
9.5% 1.83 HBT at 30 lpm Drug in 12 ml 100.612 -- 1 125 12576.5 0.4%
chamber after 4 experiments Simulate if 0.5 ml 75 5:50 11 163
806850 0 100.0% all drug trapped in tube
[0097] As shown above, during testing at a flow rate of 10 liters
per minute of flow, about 20% of the drug was caught in the
corrugated heated breathing tube while the heated smooth bore
breathing tube retained only about 5% of the drug.
[0098] In some configurations, it is believed that heating the wall
of the smooth bore heated breathing tube 300 may also act to reduce
the retained drug. For example, it is posited that heating the wall
can reduce condensation of water vapor on the wall or within the
tube, which reduces the wetness of the wall. A wetter wall may
encourage or allow more drug to rain out (e.g., water droplets may
create more surface area or more flow turbulence, or lower energy
to cause the drug to condensate or rain out).
[0099] The respiratory therapy system can include a control system
that receives inputs relative to auxiliary components. Those inputs
can be used to control operations of the respiratory therapy
system. In some configurations, the respiratory therapy system
coordinates operation of auxiliary components. For example, in some
configurations, an oxygen supply is provided. In some
configurations, the nebuliser is provided. In such configurations,
the respiratory therapy system can be controlled in accordance with
operation of the auxiliary components. In such configurations, the
respiratory therapy system can coordinate operation of the
auxiliary components and the basic operations (e.g., heater plate
temperature, flow rate, heated breathing tube temperature) of the
respiratory therapy system. In some configurations, the oxygen
concentration and the nebuliser activation (e.g., on/off state,
frequency, output) can be controlled by a controller linked to the
flow generator/humidifier.
[0100] In some configurations, when the flow rate exceeds an
optimal flow rate, the transportation efficiency has been found to
decrease. In other words, at some high flow rates above 30 lpm, the
flow rate is somewhat inversely proportional to nebulisation
efficiency (i.e., high flow rates result in more medication become
trapped within the circuit instead of being delivered to the
patient). Accordingly, the flow generator can be controlled based
upon operation of the nebuliser. For example, the flow rate can be
decreased when the nebuliser is installed. In some configurations,
the flow rate can be decreased when the nebuliser is installed and
operating (i.e., releasing medication). In some configurations, the
flow rate can be decreased by a predetermined amount (e.g., 15% or
20%) when the nebuliser is determined to be dispensing a substance.
In some configurations, the flow rate can be lowered just before
the release of substance by the nebuliser. In some configurations,
the flow rate can be lowered just before the release of the
substance by the nebuliser and maintained at the lowered rate for a
predetermined period of time. In some configurations, the flow rate
can be lowered just before the release of the substance by the
nebuliser and the flow rate can be maintained at the lowered flow
rate for a predetermined period of time sufficient to account for
the time expected for the nebulised substance to reach the user or
patient (i.e., the predetermined time can be a function of the flow
rate).
[0101] In some configurations, the second conduit comprises the
heated breathing tube, as discussed above. In some such
configurations, the temperature of the heated breathing tube can be
decreased when the nebuliser is installed. In some such
configurations, the temperature of the heated breathing tube can be
decreased when the nebuliser is installed and dispensing substance.
In some such configurations, the temperature or duty cycle of the
humidifier heater (e.g., heater plate) and/or the heated breathing
tube can be decreased well before nebulised medication is added to
the flow by the nebuliser. In some such configurations, the
temperature or duty cycle of the humidifier heater and/or the
heated breathing tube can be maintained lower for a predetermined
period of time (or a period of time that is a function of the flow
rate, for example). Such configurations can better account for
thermal hysteresis in the system while protecting the nebulised
substance from the excessive heat and/or possible thermal
damage.
Method of Use
[0102] In some configurations, the respiratory therapy system 100
may be set up as follows. The steps can be conducted in any
suitable order and, therefore, the following is a mere example of
the order that can be used.
[0103] The integrated unit 103, 206, 206' can be positioned as
desired.
[0104] The conduit can be connected to the unit 103, 206, 206'. The
conduit can be a non-corrugated type of conduit. In some
configurations, the conduit can be a smooth bore type of conduit.
In some configurations, the conduit is a smooth bore type of
conduit having a heated and insulating wall.
[0105] The mount 230, 230' is positioned on the chamber 210, 210'.
The combined mount 230, 230' and chamber 210, 210' then are
connected to the integrated unit 103, 206, 206'. The nebuliser 212
is connected to the mount 230, 230'.
[0106] Once assembled, the unit can be used with the nebuliser and
conduit to provide any desired therapy capable of being performed
with the combination of components. In some configurations, a nasal
cannula is connected to the conduit and nasal high flow therapy is
conducted while providing a drug via the nebuliser. Other
configurations and methods also are possible.
Additional Configurations and Components of the System
[0107] In some configurations, the respiratory therapy system 100
may comprise a single user interface located on the first flow
generator 101, the gas humidifier 112, the first conduit 110, the
second conduit 122, the patient interface 124, or another component
of the respiratory therapy system 100. In some configurations, the
operation of components of the respiratory therapy system 100 may
be actuated wirelessly using a user interface located on a remote
computing device, which may be a tablet, a mobile phone, a personal
digital assistant, or another computing device. In some
configurations, the operation of the flow generator 101, of the gas
humidifier 112, or of other components or aspects of the
respiratory therapy system 100 may be controlled by a controller.
The controller may comprise a microprocessor. The controller may be
located in or on the flow generator 101, the gas humidifier 112, or
other components of the respiratory therapy system 100 or on a
remote computing device. In some configurations, multiple
controllers may be used.
[0108] In some configurations, the respiratory therapy system 100
may comprise one or more sensors for detecting various
characteristics of gases in the respiratory therapy system 100,
including pressure, flow rate, temperature, absolute humidity,
relative humidity, enthalpy, gas composition, oxygen concentration,
and/or carbon dioxide concentration, one or more sensors for
detecting various characteristics of the patient or of the health
of the patient, including heart rate, respiratory rate, EEG signal,
EKG/ECG signal, blood oxygen concentration, blood CO.sub.2
concentration, and blood glucose, and/or one or more sensors for
detecting various characteristics of gases or other objects outside
the respiratory therapy system 100, including ambient temperature
and/or ambient humidity. One or more of the sensors may be used to
aid in the control of components (which may occur through use of
the aforementioned controller) of the respiratory therapy system
100, including the gas humidifier 112, through the use of a closed
or open loop control system. In some configurations, there may be
no user interface or a minimal user interface for components of the
respiratory therapy system 100. In some such configurations, the
respiratory therapy system 100 may utilize a sensor to determine if
the patient is attempting to use the respiratory therapy system 100
and automatically operate (e.g., the flow generator 101 may
generate a gas flow, the gas humidifier 112 may humidify gases, the
nebuliser 128 may nebulise a substance, etc.) according to one or
more predetermined parameters if data obtained from the sensor
indicates that the patient is attempting to use the respiratory
therapy system 100.
[0109] It also should be understood that many configurations of the
respiratory therapy system 100 may also be used for other
applications not involving providing gases to an airway of a
patient. For example, the respiratory therapy system 100 could
instead be used for providing an insufflation gas in laparoscopic
surgery. This may be enacted by replacing the patient interface 124
with a surgical cannula that may be inserted into an abdominal
cavity that has been punctured with a trocar. If a nebuliser 128 is
used, the nebuliser 128 may instead be configured to deliver the
substance along with the insufflation gas to the abdominal
cavity.
[0110] 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."
[0111] 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.
[0112] 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.
[0113] 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.
[0114] Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to
serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each
separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated
herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the disclosure
as if it were individually recited herein. Additionally, each
sub-range of values within ranges of values is incorporated into
the disclosure as if it were individually recited herein.
[0115] 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.
* * * * *