Abstract: An exhalation valve assembly for use in a volume ventilator circuit is disclosed. The valve assembly comprises a valve body defining a chamber with a gas inlet conduit and a gas outlet conduit, both in flow communication with the chamber. A diaphragm extends across the chamber and selectively closes off the gas inlet conduit. Upwardly extending strut members are disposed on an inside surface of the valve body and are used to position a removable ring member adjacent the diaphragm. The ring member is configured so as to support a portion of the diaphragm over the chamber.

Abstract: A nebulizer device for use in a breathing circuit is disclosed. The device consists of a nebulization chamber in flow communication with a gas inlet and a gas outlet. The gas inlet is configured to be coupled to a source of gas which is directed into the nebulization chamber. The gas outlet is configured to direct gas from the chamber to a patient connection. A uniquely configured siphon jet assembly for producing fine particles of liquid extends into the nebulization chamber and is movable into a plurality of positions. This permits the regulation of both the amount of liquid entrained by the gas as well as the size of the liquid particles formed.

Abstract: An exhalation valve assembly for use in a volume ventilator circuit is disclosed. The valve assembly comprises a valve body defining a chamber with a gas inlet conduit and a gas outlet conduit, both in flow communication with the chamber. A diaphragm extends across the chamber and selectively closes off the gas inlet conduit. Upwardly extending strut members are disposed on an inside surface of the valve body and are used to position a removable ring member adjacent the diaphragm. The ring member is configured so as to support a portion of the diaphragm over the chamber.