Abstract: A connection assembly for use with a respiratory circuit assembly is provided. The connection assembly includes a first connection member that has an opening therethrough to allow for the transport of fluids and objects through the first connection member. The first connection member has a recess on an end thereof. A second connection member is present that is releaseably engageable with the first connection member. The second connection member has an opening therethrough to allow for the transport of fluids and objects through the second connection member. The second connection member has a disconnect member that is engageable within the recess. A snap fit member may be present on at least one of the first and second connection members. The snap fit member hinders unintentional disengagement of the first and second connection members. Relative movement between the first connection member and the disconnect member causes a separation of the first and second connection members.

Abstract: A swivel exhaust conduit for rotatably connecting a patient mask to the delivery conduit of a positive pressure air supply. The swivel exhaust conduit design provides an exhaust port that utilizes the rotating bearing of the swivel conduit's rotating two-piece design for permitting and directing exhaust of CO2 laden air. A baffle chamber formed in the clearance of the two pieces provides an area where noise is reduced. As CO2 laden exhaust exits the swivel exhaust conduit, it is directed away from the patient mask and down the outside of the delivery conduit via a slit pattern on the swivel conduit.

Abstract: A protective neck and shoulder shroud assembly for use with a self contained breathing apparatus, the assembly including a neck curtain including a head portion, a left flap coupled to and extending generally forwardly from the head portion, and a right flap coupled to and extending generally forwardly from the head portion. The neck curtain further includes a fastener for releasably coupling the left and right flaps together such that when the flaps are coupled together. The neck curtain has a front opening located above the flaps, the front opening being located to expose at least a portion of a wearer's face or to expose at least a portion of an mask worn on the wearer's face when the neck curtain is worn by a wearer. The assembly includes a generally cylindrical enclosure shaped and sized to receive a gas canister therein, and a fastener for coupling the enclosure to an inner surface of the neck curtain.

Abstract: A medical device clamping assembly includes proximal and distal axially aligned members. The proximal and distal members are movable relative to each other. A channel is defined through the members for receipt of a treatment device, such as a catheter tube, therethrough. A clamping member is configured between the proximal and distal members and defines a portion of the channel. The clamping member is actuated between an unclamped configuration and a clamped configuration by a clinician moving one of the distal or proximal members relative to the other. In its clamped position, the clamping member clamps upon and prevents axial movement of the medical treatment device through the clamping assembly.

Abstract: Current methods of drug administration to the lungs are inefficient. ‘Endotracheal Tube with Aerosol Delivery Apparatus III’ is specifically designed for uniform intrapulmonary delivery of aerosolized medication in patients on mechanical ventilation. As opposed to the current methods of drug delivery where aerosol particles are generated at the proximal end of the ETT, with majority of the particles adhering to the endotracheal tube during delivery, this invention bypasses the endotracheal tube by generating aerosol particles at its distal end. The invention consists of two coaxial hollow tubes fused to each other. The inner coaxial tube and/or one or more secondary cannulation(s) in the wall of the outer coaxial tube terminate at proximal and as MDI adapters and at the distal tip as a single or multiple micrometric orifices.

Abstract: An improved modified ventilation tube system designed to improve patient comfort and prevent accidental “pop off” incidents that often occur with standard endotracheal and ventilation tubes. The system includes a modified endotracheal tube that includes a cylindrical-shaped end adapter, an L-shaped elbow connector with a rotating leg member and a fixed leg member, and a modified ventilation tube. The rotating leg member is perpendicularly aligned on one end of the fixed leg member and slidingly receives the end adapter on the modified endotracheal tube. Disposed around the rotating leg member is a first rotating collar that securely fixes the end adapter to the rotating leg member. The fixed leg member includes a long leg section that slidingly connects to a rotating coupler attached to the modified ventilation tube. A second rotating collar is disposed around the rotating coupler to selectively attach the fixed leg member to the rotating coupler.

Abstract: A tracheal tube holding and stabilizing device includes a support having an open slot for receiving a tracheal tube. A pivotally mounted jaw is coupled to the support to close the slot and clamp the tracheal tube in position. The support includes a flexible arm having ratcheting teeth for engaging complementing ratcheting teeth on an outer end of the jaw. The jaw includes an open slot on one side to receive the tracheal tube in the clamping position. In this manner, the tracheal tube is securely clamped in the slot of the support and the slot in the pivotable jaw.

Abstract: An anatomically-shaped airway ventilation and intubating device is disclosed, which may comprise a flexible elongated conduit adapted to fit in a patient's oropharynx. The conduit may be partially divided into an intubation lumen and a ventilation lumen, having apertures at the proximal end of the conduit. The distl end of the conduit may be substantially opposite the esophagus opening of the patient when the device is inserted into the oropharynx. The ventilation and intubation lumens may be in fluid communication with an aperture located between the proximate end and the distal end of the conduit, which aperture may be substantially opposite the laryngeal opening of the patient when the device is inserted into the oropharynx.

Abstract: A swivel exhaust conduit for rotatably connecting a patient mask to the delivery conduit of a positive pressure air supply. The swivel exhaust conduit design provides an exhaust port that utilizes the rotating bearing of the swivel conduit's rotating two-piece design for permitting and directing exhaust of CO2 laden air. A baffle chamber formed in the clearance of the two pieces provides an area where noise is reduced. As CO2 laden exhaust exits the swivel exhaust conduit, it is directed away from the patient mask and down the outside of the delivery conduit via a slit pattern on the swivel conduit.

Abstract: Current methods of drug administration to the lungs are inefficient. ‘Aerosol Delivery Apparatus’ in specifically designed for uniform intrapulmonary deposition of aerosolized medication in patients on mechanical ventilation. As opposed to the current methods of drug delivery where aerosol particles are generated at the proximal end of the ET tube, with majority of the particles adhering to the endotracheal tube during delivery, this invention bypasses the endotracheal tube by generating aerosol particles at its distal end. This invention incorporates a medicament dispenser with an adapter (MDA) to perfectly fit the nozzle of a conventional metered dose inhaler and an L-shaped ventilator connector with adapter (VCA) to fit MDA. From the distal end of MDA adapter originates a semi-rigid cannula with a narrow lumen that terminates as a pinhole opening distally where aerosol particles are generated on actuation of MDI valve.

Abstract: A fluid flow control valve is disclosed. This valve includes a housing which defines a central passageway having fluid inlet and fluid outlet openings. A pressure responsive element is disposed within the passageway for selectively opening and closing the inlet opening to fluid flow in response to fluid pressure exerted thereon at the inlet opening. A mechanism is provided within the passageway for exerting a bias force against the pressure responsive element which is sufficient to close the inlet opening to fluid flow absent a pre-established level of fluid pressure exerted on the pressure responsive element. A fluid filter element is also disposed within the passageway; and a retainer device is positioned for removably securing the filter element within the passageway.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for delivering an anaesthetic to human or animal patients. The apparatus comprises an anaesthetic machine which is arranged to mount components of an anaesthetic delivery circuit, and which includes a collector arrangement in the form of a manifold (21) having a plurality of inlets and outlets. The manifold (21) enables a reduction in the number of tubes connecting the various components in an anaesthetic system, which are normally required in prior art anaesthetic machines. The manifold (21) also includes an arrangement (40) which provides a Venturi effect on gas flow, and enables a pressure gauge (18) to be mounted out of a patient breathing circuit. The machine is preferably portable.

Abstract: Unwanted separation of an inner cannula from an outer cannula in tracheostomy devices can be achieved by installing a retaining ring which prevents the inner cannula from unwantingly being unlatched from the outer cannula. The retaining ring allows the air supply elbow to be separated which, in turn, permits the sensory alarms to properly sound when a disconnection of the air supply arises.

Abstract: A system for facilitating the delivery of a liquid anesthetic agent from an anesthetic bottle to an anesthetic vaporizer. The system includes a bottle adapter, an anesthetic bottle and a filler arrangement positioned on the anesthetic vaporizer. The bottle adapter and filler arrangement each include a keyed configuration such that only the correct type of anesthetic agent can be emptied into the anesthetic vaporizer. The bottle adapter includes an adapter valve assembly that engages a filler valve assembly contained within the filler. The dimensions and arrangement of the adapter valve assembly and the filler valve assembly insure anesthetic agent is delivered to the anesthetic vaporizer only when the anesthetic agent can safely flow from the anesthetic bottle to the anesthetic vaporizer.

Abstract: The present invention provides a plug for a respiratory suction catheter and manifold assembly that protects or maintains at least one internal component, such as the flap, of an assembly during nonuse. In a preferred embodiment, the interior plug element functions or contains a spring or similar expanding mechanism. This provides for additional security for the internal components. Further, the plug may contain an exterior plug element as well as an interior plug element.

Abstract: An oxygen connector system for coupling an oxygen source to an oxygen tube comprises a source of oxygen. The source has an output orifice through which source oxygen is adapted to pass. The orifice has an inner bore and an outer surface. A flexible cylindrical elastomeric tube has a first input end and a second output end. The first input end is adapted to make a flush abutment with the source at the orifice. A generally cylindrical rigid connector has an exterior surface with a first region and a second region. An intermediate tapered region is provided between the first and second regions. The connector has a central generally cylindrical bore extending through the first and second ends forming an interior surface. The second end has a diameter slightly greater than that of the tube. A pair of stoppers are provided adjacent to the input end of the tube.

Abstract: A device for releasing a gas to a respirator with a compressed gas cylinder (2), which contains the gas and has a metering valve (6). The metering valve (6) can be opened by pressure. The metering valve (6) has a tubular valve body (7) letting through the gas and has a collar (5) surrounding the valve body (7). A cylinder adapter has a locking mechanism (16) designed for fastening to the collar (5). The cylinder adapter (1) always remains associated with the corresponding compressed gas cylinder (2). This is accomplished by a predetermined breaking point with reduced strength properties being provided on the cylinder adapter (1). The breaking point is intended to destroy the locking mechanism (16) during the removal of the cylinder adapter (1) from the collar (5).

Abstract: By interposing an adapter between the endotracheal or tracheal tube inserted to a patient and the ventilation and suction systems that are connected to the endotracheal tube, a catheter could be inserted via an input port built into the adapter so as to enable a medical personnel to provide localized treatments in the lungs of a patient without having to disconnect either one of the systems connected to the endotracheal tube. The adapter is configured to have a securing mechanism that allows the medical personnel to secure the medication catheter in place. A one way valve fitted to the apertured arm that forms the input port of the adapter prevents any back flow of fluid from the input port.

Abstract: An anesthesia system wherein the respiratory system is fitted with interchangeable patient circuit modules that allows a generic fitting in the machine to have affixed, hereto, a module that has ports suitable for connection to various patient breathing circuits. As such, the anesthesia machine can have the patient circuit modules easily changed and thus be adaptable for use with patient breathing circuits such as the circle system, the open/nonrebreathing circuit and the Bain or Mapleson D circuits. A detector system is provided that identifies that particular patient module installed in the anesthesia machine to alert the main CPU and to thus provide the correct flow sensing schemes and flows to the patient breathing circuit then being used.

Abstract: A self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) that includes an emergency filtration device for use in the event of an SCBA malfunction or exhaustion is described. The SCBA may include an air supply, a visored face mask, a hose connecting the air supply to the face mask, and a regulator controlling the supply of air from the air supply to the face mask. The regulator has a regulator cover or front plate with a given configuration. The emergency air filtration device is adapted to connect to the face mask in place of the regulator, and includes an air filtration media within a housing, and a filtration device cover positioned in front of the device. The filtration device cover has a configuration corresponding to the given configuration of the regulator cover, so that the user responds by “muscle memory” to quickly replace the regulator with the filtration device under stressful conditions with limited visability.

Abstract: A face mask includes a fan device for drawing air into the mask and for facilitating the breathing of the users. A holder is secured to the mask and has a chamber for receiving the fan device. A motor may be used for driving the fan device. A canister is disposed in front of the fan device for filtering air. The holder includes a conduit having a mouth engaged into the mask. A check valve is disposed in the mouth for preventing air from flowing backward from the mask to the conduit. A guard member is disposed in front of the fan device for protecting the fan device.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a coupling arrangement for a system for endotracheal ventilation of a patient, which system comprises an endotracheal tube and a manifold (100) configured for allowing ventilation of the patient via said endotracheal tube, which manifold (100) has a first coupling means (300) with an axial extent (400) and with engagement means (330); and which endotracheal tube has a second coupling means (400) with an axial extent and with engagement means (420); wherein the coupling 312 arrangement is configured to produce, when the first (300) and the second (400) coupling means are moved together in the axial direction, a locking engagement between the engagement means (33, 420).

Abstract: An air and water hose apparatus (10 or 210) for use in an air supply system (100) for firefighters (150). The air and water hose apparatus has an air hose (32 or 232) completely within the water hose (12 or 212). The air and water hose apparatus comprises only a single length of the overall water hose of the system. This ensures that no part of the air hose is exposed to possible damage. The system supplies high pressure air to the firefighters. The system allows for easy connect and disconnect of the air and water hose apparatus to the firefighter's mask (160) and preferably can be used with standard self-contained breathing apparatus (152) having a mask and a regulator (158). A branched conduit (46) allows several firefighters to be attached to a single air and water hose apparatus.

Abstract: A device for removing sputum from a tracheal catheter inserted into the trachea of a patient. The aim of the invention is to supplement existing tracheal catheters in such a way that sputum is automatically kept away from the air filter and is removed without any problems so that excruciating and painful choking attacks in patients can be prevented and the risk of death by asphyxia is eliminated. This is achieved by a housing (4) having a first orifice (1) that can be attached to the end of the tracheal catheter projecting from the trachea; a second orifice (2) for exhaled air-filtered fresh air exchange and a third orifice (3) for sputum outflow.

Abstract: Connecting apparatus for placing at least one single fluid flow path in fluid communication with at least two single fluid flow paths of a plurality of single fluid flow paths.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are disclosed by which a closed ventilating system accommodates multiple access to the respiratory system of an intubated medical patient without compromising the closed character of the system. Access to the respiratory system through one or more access sites of the closed system apparatus is provided at proximal adapter ports to ventilate the lungs of the patient with gas or gases, to aspirate secretions from the lungs, to oxygenate the lungs to eliminate or reduce residual co2 therefrom, to visually inspect selected parts of the respiratory system, to sample sputum and gases, to sense parameters such as flow rates, pressure, and temperature, to flush with washing solution, and/or to administer medication, gases, and/or lavage. A distal swivel fitting provides multiple sealing sites by which entry of atmosphere is prevented.

Abstract: A patient gas delivery apparatus includes a gas flow generator, a gas delivery conduit and a patient mask. Connected in series between the conduit and the mask is an assembly formed in at least two interengaging parts that may form a housing for an anti-asphyxia valve or flow sensor. The assembly further includes a mating portion for connection to the mask, the arrangement being such that connection of the assembly to the mask prevents disengagement of the interengaging connection between the two parts of the assembly.

Abstract: A universal oxygen connector for connecting an oxygen supply tubing or an oxygen supply hose between and an oxygen supply appliance and an oxygen mask or a nasal oxygen dispenser. Multiple and aligned and spaced hose or tubing connection bodies on a single universal oxygen connector accepts oxygen supply tubing or an oxygen supply hose for use as required.

Abstract: A universal respiratory adaptor for connecting medical equipment to a patient respiratory device comprises: i) a machine end comprises at least two male tapers of different diameters; ii) a patient end comprises a first female port concentric within a second female port, wherein the second female port has an outer wall which defines a male fitting, and iii) a tubular body portion interconnecting the machine end and the patient end; wherein the machine end and the body portion comprise a continuous lumen in fluid communication with the first female port.

Abstract: A universal oxygen mask bayonet and bayonet receiver deflector includes a bayonet receiver deflector disposed on the helmet between the bayonet receiver and helmet, and a bayonet deflector connected to the oxygen mask bayonet. The bayonet receiver deflector includes a contoured side for providing a smooth transition between the helmet and the bayonet receiver on at least one side of the bayonet receiver. The oxygen mask bayonet deflector is made of two parts consisting of a bayonet ramp deflector and a bayonet tab deflector. The bayonet ramp deflector includes a ramped side and the bayonet tab deflector is generally frusto-conical in shape and includes a stem and a notch on the stem.

Abstract: Protective breathing equipment comprises a breathing mask provided with a regulator for connection to a source of pressurized breathing gas and a harness having at least one extensible strap whose ends are connected to the mask and which includes an element that is temporarily inflatable by the pressurized gas to lengthen the strap until it is large enough to enable the user to engage the harness on the head, and exhaustible to allow the strap to press to press the mask against the face. The extensible strap is connected to the face-piece by at least one mechanical member of length that is adjustable by the user while wearing the equipment.

Abstract: An expiration cassette is removably insertable in a receiving section of a ventilator and contains a gas passage, an expiratory valve and a flow meter. The expiratory cassette also has a locking mechanism for lacking and unlocking interaction with a receiving section in the ventilator.

Abstract: A universal oxygen connector for connecting an oxygen supply tubing or an oxygen supply hose between and an oxygen supply appliance and an oxygen mask or a nasal oxygen dispenser. Multiple and aligned and spaced hose or tubing connection bodies on a single universal oxygen connector accepts oxygen supply tubing or an oxygen supply hose for use as required.

Abstract: A method for providing assisted ventilation which avoids hypoxia and hypocapnia in which a predetermined dead space in an assisted ventilation system is provided external to the patient. The method may also be used to create normocapnia or moderate hypercapnia without causing hypoxia during assisted ventilation. Improved assisted ventilation devices, including an improved proximal terminal, improved tubular attachments and improved coaxial filters, are disclosed which are safer and less expensive to use than corresponding prior art unilimb assisted ventilation devices. Connector fittings and adapters to provide connector fittings on assisted ventilation devices are disclosed which provide positive indication of attachment of assisted ventilation devices and resist detachment of assisted ventilation devices. The devices of the present invention also reduce medical waste in comparison to prior art assisted ventilation devices.

Abstract: A connector for openly connecting conduits includes male and female parts adapted to couple by plug fit connection and structured to permit relative rotational displacement in coupled condition.

Abstract: A surface breathing vent device for a mask permits the user wearing the mask to breathe ambient air prior to diving under water or entering an oxygen-poor environment and includes a support plate couplable to the mask and provided with an opening in alignment with the com port of the face mask, a bushing provided in the opening, and a vent barrel received in the bushing and movable between an open position in which ambient air can pass into the mask and a closed position where water is prevented from entering the mask. The barrel includes a closed end and two lateral openings which permit air to pass therethrough when the barrel is in the open position. A first O-ring prevents the inadvertent removal of the barrel from the bushing, a second O-ring functions as a detent when the barrel is opened and closed, and a third O-ring provides a water and air tight seal when the barrel is in a closed position.

Abstract: A quick release mechanism and headpiece for use with a respirator. The quick release mechanism uses a cam latch pivotally attached to a yoke to control the tension in an upper tension strap. In the latched position the upper tension strap traverses the yoke to support and seal the respirator mask against the face of the wearer. In the unlatched position the upper tension straps loosely support the mask below the chin of the wearer in a parked position. In one embodiment, a guide is provided on the yoke to ensure that the mask may be consistently donned and doffed with minimal effort (e.g., potential one-handed donning and doffing). An opening may also be provided in the face mask and optionally in the yoke, and a filter may be disposed within the opening to provide the desired filtration of inhaled gases.

Abstract: An improved respirator filter assembly includes an integral fit seal check mechanism easily controlled by the user. Upon release, the seal check mechanism permits free airflow through the filter assembly. The seal check mechanism includes an air passageway having a sealing rim and a blocking member which is selectively movable between engaged and disengaged positions relative to the sealing rim. A spring element is disposed to releasably maintain the blocking member in the disengaged position during filter assembly operation, wherein a user may actuate the blocking member against the bias of the spring element to move the blocking member into the engaged position to substantially prevent entry of air into the air passageway during seal checking.

Abstract: An apparatus (10) for supplying breathable gas. The apparatus (10) includes a flow generator (12), a gas outlet (14), a connector (21) interposed between the flow generator (12) and the pressure sensor (20), the connector having a connecting inlet (22) and a connecting outlet (24), a pressure sensor (20) interposed between the connecting outlet (24) and the gas outlet (14). The connector (21) is adapted to allow selective connection to either a duct member (30) providing a direct flow path from the connecting inlet (22) to the connecting outlet (24) or to a humidifier (26) interposed between the connecting inlet (22) and the connecting outlet (24).

Abstract: An indicator for detecting correct intubation of an endotracheal tube has a paper color-change element attached to a frame that is removably secured in a transparent connector in the machine end of the tube. A handle on the frame extends along the outside of the connector so that the indicator can be removed from the machine end of the connector by pulling the handle. The indicator prevents another connector being attached to the connector in the tube until after the indicator has been removed.

Abstract: A coupling between a breathing tube system is provided with an inner tube and an outer tube. A first connection part is provided with a first connection piece for the outer tube and with a first connection for the inner tube. The first connection is arranged eccentrically in the first connection piece. A second connection part is provided with a second connection piece, which is in flow connection with the first connection piece. The second connection part provides a second connection, which is arranged concentrically in the second connection piece and which is connected to the first connection in terms of flow.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods to automatically release a respirator device at least from a wearer's face. For a respirator mask, such apparatus includes a securement device, which fits around at least the rear side of a wearer's head, and one or more couplings which are configured to releasably secure the respirator mask with the securement device around the wearer's head. For a respirator hood, a neck dam is used as the securement device. Pressurized, breathable gas is supplied to the wearer through the respirator device and to the coupling(s) to secure the device to the wearer's head and, if and when pressure of the gas supplied to the device drops below a critical level, the pressure of the gas supplied to the actuator(s) also drops sufficiently for the actuator(s) to change states and allow the coupling(s) to separate, thereby releasing the device. Manual and/or remote release can also be provided.

Abstract: An occluder for supporting and preventing escape of anesthesia gases through face masks when not in use includes a C-shaped support base. The base consists of a flat base plate adapted to fit beneath a surgical mattress, a side plate located in a plane normal to that of the base plate which has a height equal to the thickness of a standard surgical mattress, and a top plate which is in a plane parallel to that of the base plate. A solid cylindrical support shaft is integral with and extends upwardly from the top plate. Preferably the cylindrical support shaft has a main body portion approximately 15 mm in diameter and a top portion of reduced diameter which is preferably 13 mm in diameter. The components of the occluder are preferably formed of a non-ferrous metal such as aluminum.

Abstract: Means are provided for connecting at least one breathing gas cylinder to a face mask or like device in breathing equipment of the kind used by firemen and divers, for instance. The means includes a three-way coupling (5) in which at least one of the connections is comprised of a hose connector (10) which can be adjusted angularly in relation to the two remaining connections (9, 13). The coupling means can be used for different purposes and is relatively insensitive to external influences.

Abstract: Unwanted separation of an inner cannula from an outer cannula in tracheostomy devices can be achieved by installing a retaining ring which prevents the inner cannula from unwantingly being unlatched from the outer cannula. The retaining ring allows the air supply elbow to be separated which, in turn, permits the sensory alarms to properly sound when a disconnection of the air supply arises.

Abstract: A bi/multi-directional air flow filter cartridge includes a filter pad and a filter pad base. The filter pad includes: outer filter walls made of a filter material suitable for filtering at least particulates, the walls being spaced apart to define an inner area therebetween, and to allow air to pass into the inner area from two or more directions; and a gas/vapor adsorber/absorber member, located within the inner area defined by the outer filter walls, the filter walls maintaining a spacing between inner surfaces of the walls and the gas/vapor adsorber/absorber member, wherein the gas/vapor adsorber/absorber member includes an adsorber/absorber upstream portion of its outer surface structured to, in response to a source of suction, receive air that has already been filtered by the filter walls, such that the air passes through at least a minimum length of the gas/vapor adsorber/absorber member and then out of an opening in the filter pad at a downstream portion of the gas/vapor adsorber/absorber member.

Abstract: Patient gas delivery apparatus includes a gas flow generator, a gas delivery conduit and a patient mask (10). Connected in series between the conduit and the mask is an assembly (20) formed in at least two interengaging parts (26,28), which may form a housing for an anti-asphyxia valve or flow sensor. The assembly further includes a mating portion (22) for connection to the mask, the arrangement being such that connection of the assembly (20) to the mask (10) prevents disengagement of the interengaging connection (42,44) between the two parts of the assembly.

Abstract: Patient gas delivery apparatus includes a gas flow generator, a gas delivery conduit and a patient mask (10). Connected in series between the conduit and the mask is an assembly (20) formed in at least two interengaging parts (26, 28), which may form a housing for an anti-asphyxia valve or flow sensor. The assembly further includes a mating portion (22) for connection to the mask, the arrangement being such that connection of the assembly (20) to the mask (10) prevents disengagement of the interengaging connection (42, 44) between the two parts of the assembly.

Abstract: A multilumen unilimb conduit for providing respiratory gases to and receiving expiratory gases from a patient connected to a unilimb respiratory circuit. The conduit has unique fittings for connection to patient devices or assisted ventilation systems and components. In a preferred embodiment, the conduit has fasteners or blocking devices at either or both of its distal and proximal ends.

Abstract: A quick release mechanism and headpiece for use with a respirator. The quick release mechanism uses an over center latch pivotly attached to a yoke to control the tension in a pair of upper tension cords. In the latched position the upper tension cords traverse the yoke and together with a pair of lower tension cords support and seal the respirator mask against the face of the wearer. In the unlatched position the upper tension cords loosely support the mask below the chin of the wearer in a parked position. The upper and lower tension cords are attached to a circular shaped headpiece having a crown piece fitting to the top of the head of the wearer and a base portion fitting to the back of the head of the wearer. The headpiece is advantageously comprised of multiple layers wherein the outer layer is comprised of a rigid material and the inner layer is comprised of a compliant material.