Abstract: A system for humidifying respiratory gases has a humidification apparatus, a humidification chamber, a heating apparatus and a sensor. The sensor is configured to determine a characteristic of the gases flow and communicate this to a controller which controls the power supplied to the heating apparatus with respect to information regarding the characteristic of the gases flow. A structure partially encloses the humidification chamber and allows energy loss through a wall of the humidification chamber. The humidification chamber may have features to promote heat loss through the wall of the chamber.

Abstract: Some embodiments provide for an inspiratory limb for a breathing circuit that includes a first segment that comprises a first heater wire circuit and a second segment that comprises a second heater wire circuit. The inspiratory limb can include an intermediate connector that includes a connection circuit that electrically couples the first heater wire circuit to the second heater wire circuit. The inspiratory limb can be configured to operate in two modes wherein, in a first mode, electrical power passes through the first electrical connection to provide power to the first heater wire circuit without providing power to the second heater wire circuit, and in a second mode, electrical power pass through the first electrical connection to provide power to both the first heater wire circuit and the second heater wire circuit.

Abstract: A gases humidification system includes a measuring chamber and a mixing chamber. The mixing chamber has one or more mixing elements that improve a mixing of gases before reaching the measuring chamber. Ultrasonic sensing is used to measure gases properties or characteristics within the measuring chamber. A baffle or a vane may be used to control and direct the gases flow through the mixing chamber as the gases flow moves into the measuring chamber.

Abstract: A humidification arrangement can be configured to have multiple compartments with each compartment having at least one moisture source and at least one heater. The compartments can be thermally isolated and can be controlled such that the moisture output of both the first and second compartments is set to a function of the same set of input signals.

Abstract: This invention relates to a humidifier for a respiratory assistance device, a respiratory assistance device comprising a humidifier and related methods and apparatus. The invention particularly provides arrangements for generating vapour by impinging light on metallic and/or carbon based material, particularly in the form of nanoparticles.

Abstract: In some embodiments, a humidification system includes a heater base having a heater plate, a humidification chamber, and circuit. The circuit can include various conduits, including an inspiratory conduit, expiratory conduit, Y-piece, patient conduit, and/or dry conduit. In use, the chamber contains a quantity of liquid. The heater base heats the heater plate, which in turn heats the liquid to a temperature that causes at least some of the liquid to become vapor, thereby humidifying the gases within the chamber. The gas is delivered to the patient via the inspiratory conduit. Various features can help control the system and ensure the patient receives gases having the desired conditions. These features can be used individually or in various combinations and subcombinations both in existing humidification systems and improved systems for respiratory humidification, laparoscopy, and other purposes.

Abstract: A pressure regulator for regulating the expiratory flow in a CPAP system includes submerging a tube into a column of water. Improvements are included for adjusting the level to which the tube is submerged and for ensuring constant water level.