Abstract: The present invention relates to a non-invasive-ventilation-mask to patients with and ongoing endoscopic procedure without interrupting the procedure, without removing the endoscopic probe and without requiring endotracheal intubation.

Abstract: A variable speed blower for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) ventilation of patients includes two impellers in the gas flow path that cooperatively pressurize gas to desired pressure and flow characteristics. Thus, the blower can provide faster pressure response and desired flow characteristics over a narrower range of motor speeds, resulting in greater reliability and less acoustic noise.

Abstract: A cushion for a patient interface that delivers breathable gas to a patient includes a base wall structured to be connected to a frame, an underlying support cushion extending away from the base wall towards the patient's face in use, and a membrane provided to substantially cover at least a portion of the underlying cushion. The membrane is adapted to form a continuous seal on the patient's face. The underlying cushion has a spring-like connection with the base wall. The underlying cushion and/or base wall define a spring constant that varies along a length of the seal.

Abstract: A deflector mechanism (20) for use with a respiratory interface device (8) is provided. The interface device includes a cushion (8a), a mask frame (8b) supporting the cushion, a patient circuit (6) coupled to the mask frame adapted to carry a flow of gas, and an exhaust port (10) integrated in the frame and/or the patient circuit for venting exhaust gases (12) from the respiratory interface device. The deflector mechanism includes a deflector portion (24) having a surface (25) and a mounting portion (22) that couples the a deflector to the frame and/or patient circuit such that vented exhaust gases contact the surface of the deflector portion. The deflector portion is structured to modify sound created by the venting exhaust gases. The deflector portion is also structured to selectively direct the exhaust gases without an addition additional restriction, i.e., a greater pressure drop, to the flow of the exhaust gases.

Abstract: A holding device for a respiratory mask includes a headband adapted to extend in an application position from a forehead portion of a patient around a back head portion of the patient. A strengthening element is releasably coupled to the headband to add flexural strength to the headband. The strengthening element is adapted to extend from the forehead portion laterally to respective ear portions and to descend behind the respective ear portions towards the patient's neck. The strengthening element has bracket sections positioned below respective ear portions adjacent the back head portion. A support is coupled to respective bracket sections to support the bracket sections in the back head portion.

Abstract: This invention is a respiratory mask for delivering pressurized gas with a perimeter that can be custom fitted to the contours of a person's face by active and individual adjustment of multiple shape-changing members in the body of the mask. In different embodiments of this invention, the shape-changing members may be located around the perimeter of the mask and individually adjusted by inflation, other pneumatic means, hydraulic means, electric means, or magnetic means. The resulting mask can conform to the contours of an individual's face, even while they sleep, so that there are no places around the mask that fit too tightly (causing irritation, skin marks, and pain) and no places that fit too loosely (causing air leaks).

Abstract: A hand-held, automated qualitative fit tester (QLFT) for establishing gas mask fit integrity. The automated QLFT may be configured to utilize a pressure source in combination with a cartridge and a nebulizer to generate aerosols having size distributions and concentrations that are substantially the same as OSHA-approved manual units. The QLFT may further include a cartridge that contains the aerosol solution used to test mask integrity. The cartridge may be configured to recapture solution that collects on the interior walls of the nebulizer. The automated QLFT may also be equipped with a microprocessor for executing sequences that are in substantive compliance with 29 CFR 1910.134 and for writing to a data storage device. The automated aspects of the invention can reduce or negate the need for operating personnel to repeatedly and manually actuate a squeeze ball and record results manually, as is required with present OSHA-approved hand-held aerosol generators.

Abstract: This invention is a method, device, and system to provide respiratory assistance to people with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), or other respiratory conditions, comprising harvesting and storing energy from gas outflow during exhalation and using that stored energy to increase gas inflow during inhalation. In an example, this invention may provide Positive End-Expiratory Pressure (PEEP) or Continuous positive Airway Pressure (CPAP). This invention can be embodied in a self-contained energy-harvesting positive airway pressure mask, nasal inserts, or mouth appliance. This invention offers a combination of the following five benefits for Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) treatment: minimally-invasive; energy self-sufficient; freedom of movement; hypercapnia avoidance; and adjustable energy harvesting over multiple respiratory cycles.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for delivering a supply of gases to a patient. The device includes a patient interface and connecting member. The connecting member is preferably a L-shaped swivelled connector that is capable of being fixed into one of two positions, a first position where the connector is freely rotatable within the patient interface, and a second position where an interference between the interface and connector prevents the free rotation of the connector within the patient interface. The present invention further relates to a connector that has outlet means, which includes at least one outlet vent and a funnel, which in use directs and passes a substantial portion gases expired from the patient through the outlet vent or vents.

Abstract: A respiration appliance, system, and method for supporting the airway of a subject as the subject breaths. The flow of gas from the lungs of the subject during exhalation is leveraged to provide support to the airway. In particular, a body that encloses one or more external orifices of the subject provides a resistance differential between inhaled gas flows and exhaled gas flows that supports the subject's airway.

Abstract: The passenger oxygen mask is provided for emergency situations on board an aircraft. The mask body is designed collapsible at least in sections. An axial overall height of the mask body is reduced by way of the one or more mask sections. This simplifies the accommodation of the oxygen mask or even permits a smaller constructional size of the preparation device.

Abstract: A patient interface assembly that includes a patient interface device and a headgear. The headgear includes a first headgear strap and a second headgear strap having first end portions connected to opposite sides of the patient interface device. Second end portions of the first headgear strap and a second headgear strap are coupled to a first beam member and a second beam member respectively. The first and second beam members extend behind a head of such as user during use and are joined together via an adjustment mechanism that allows the overall length of the first beam and the second beam to be selectively adjusted.

Abstract: A dry powder inhaler has a main airflow path including a cyclone chamber (16) having an air inlet and being so shaped that at least a part of the chamber decreases in cross-sectional area in a direction away from the air inlet, so as thereby in use to set up a reverse flow cyclone in the chamber. A bypass airflow path (8) bypasses the cyclone chamber and the main and bypass airflow paths communicate with a mouthpiece (6). The cyclone chamber may be provided by a part (22) which is removable from the rest of the inhaler for regular replacement thereof.

Abstract: A respiration assist mask having an input gas feed tube, a ventilation interface, a facial interface and nasal inserts. The gas feed tube can connect to the ventilation interface and form a seal. The ventilation interface may be joined with the facial interface to form a seal between the ventilation interface and the facial interface, as well as between the facial interface and the face of a user. Additionally, nasal inserts may be inserted into a portion of the facial interface and form a seal between the inserts and the facial interface.

Abstract: A patient interface device (2) includes a coupling (4) structured to receive and distribute a flow of breathing gas (100), and a nasal component (6) extending outwardly from the coupling. The nasal component includes a single sealing element (8) structured to engage and seal only one of the two nostrils (306, 308) of a nose(304) of a patient(300). A method of fitting the patient interface device includes receiving the aforementioned patient interface device, and engaging and sealing a single nostril of the patient's nose with the single sealing element.

Abstract: A patient interface gas delivery mask having a forehead and chin support system including a forehead support, a chin support, and a system for supplying a flow of gas to a patient that incorporates such a mask, forehead support, and chin support. The forehead support includes a supporting arm which is adjustably mounted to the mask shell, thereby allowing the adjustment of the distance between the forehead support bracket and the mask shell in order to adjust for patient's of different sizes. A forehead support bracket is pivotally connected to the support arm. Likewise the chin support is also adjustably mounted to the mask shell.

Abstract: A patient interface assembly includes a support member having a central support portion and a pair of cheek mount supports coupled to the central portion. Each cheek mount support applies a force on or on a side of a user's cheekbone. A seal member is coupled to the support portion and seals against the user. An additional nasal support member is provided that includes a first lateral side member operatively coupled to the central support portion and arranged to be disposed along a first side of a user's nose, and a second lateral side member also operatively coupled the central support portion and arranged to be disposed along a second side of a user's nose. At least a portion of the first lateral side member and the second lateral side member is rigid or semi rigid.

Abstract: A pressure sensitive valve device for use with respiratory equipment of the type that produces a pressurized flow of breathing gas. The valve device combines the exhalation and entrainment functions in one valve with a single air path. The valve device provides an exhaust valve function during normal operation and provides a less restricted access to the ambient atmosphere in the event of respiratory equipment malfunction. The valve device includes a valve element that moves between at least two positions. During normal operation, when the pressure generating system is generating a flow of gas, the valve element is in a “closed” or “exhaust valve” position. When in the exhaust valve position, the gas flow to the atmosphere is restricted without being completely blocked off. When the flow of gas is decreased or interrupted, the valve element moves to the “entrainment valve” or “open” position that allows a greater, i.e., less restricted flow, of gas between the user and the ambient atmosphere.

Abstract: The invention relates to a respiratory protection mask for a compressed air breathing apparatus comprising a pulmonary machine which is controlled by a control membrane when the wearer of the mask breathes in. According to the invention, the air outlet of the expiratory valve and the control membrane are covered by a common cover, forming a rinsing area on the outside of the control membrane through which homogeneously temperate, clean rinsing air flows from the air outlet to the air discharge openings in the cover, thereby ensuring high functionality and high service life of the membrane-controlled pulmonary machine despite extreme environmental conditions.

Abstract: A pressure activated remote microphone is provided within a communication system (100). A face mask (102) incorporates a remote microphone (118) and one or more pressure sensor(s) (122). When a user puts on the mask (102), the remote microphone (118) is enabled in response to the pressure sensed by the pressure sensors (122). When the mask (102) is removed, the remote microphone (118) is disabled in response to the change in pressure sensed by the pressure sensor(s) (122).

Abstract: A fluid flow control apparatus for use in, for example, a patient interface, is provided that includes a main conduit structured to receive a pressurized fluid and a nozzle assembly coupled to the main conduit. The nozzle assembly includes an external nozzle element having a contoured top surface and a main bore in fluid communication with an interior of the main conduit, an internal nozzle element received within the main bore, wherein a gap is provided between the internal nozzle element and the external nozzle element, and a switching element selectively moveable between a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position, the switching element is positioned below the contoured top surface of the external nozzle element, and wherein in the second position, at least a portion of the switching element is positioned adjacent to or above the contoured top surface of the external nozzle element.

Abstract: A case for an emergency escape breathing apparatus including a substantially rigid hollow shell defining a cylinder housing portion for retaining a cylinder of breathable gas and a delivery device housing portion for removably housing a delivery device for the breathable gas supplied by the cylinder. An access opening is provided which provides access to the interior of the delivery device housing portion through which a delivery device, such as a hood or mask, can be inserted and removed.

Abstract: A blower includes a housing including an inlet and an outlet, a stationary component provided to the housing, an impeller positioned between the inlet of the housing and the stationary component, and a motor adapted to drive the impeller. The housing and the stationary component cooperate to define a volute that directs air towards the outlet. The housing includes a separating wall constructed and arranged to divide the volute into a high speed airpath region and a low speed airpath region.

Abstract: A pad is attachable to the forehead part of a CPAP face mask with pockets sewn into the body of the pad. The pad protects the forehead of the wearer and the nose bridge by a flap of material that fits between the seal of the mask and the wearer's nose bridge distributing the pressure from the mask seal. Persons with sleep apnea rely on CPAP therapy to prevent the obstruction in order to continue to breathe while sleeping. The CPAP masks appear medical and strange, especially to a new user of the device. By making the CPAP mask more comfortable with soft padding and also preventing marks and sores, it is more likely that the person will continue their therapy and improve their health. The invention is designed to be colorful, soft and comforting to help people with sleep apnea continue to get the necessary therapy.

Abstract: An inhalation mask (1) for fitting to a snout of an equine animal or an animal having an equine shaped snout is provided and comprise: a unitary mask body (6) defining a housing with an open end (11) which is adapted to overfit and accommodate the snout of the animal. The open end (11) of the housing being an integral part of the housing and forming a deformable seal about the open end (11) for sealing about the snout of the animal, wherein the open end (11) of the housing comprises a deformable lip (10) which forms the deformable seal, the lip (10) being formed by a continuation of a side wall (7) forming the mask body (6), which when the mask (1) is fitted, turns back inward upon itself, into the open end (11) of the mask (1), so that the lip (10) engages with the animal's snout to support the mask body (6) on the snout.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for storing breathing masks in a tall and narrow space and deploying the masks from that space. The apparatus may be embodied as a removable cartridge containing a breathing mask assembly housed within a frame. The cartridge is comprised of a first side and second side which can move relative to the frame. The first side includes a hinge. In operation, the cartridge slides relative to the frame and rotatably opens via the hinge after the cartridge substantially exits the frame. A breathing mask is released to a user after the first and second halves rotatably separate.

Abstract: A device for supplying a patient with breathing gas, which has a housing provided with gas ducts and a corresponding cover (5), shall be improved such that the cover (5) can be manufactured in a simple manner and possesses good sealing properties. To accomplish the object, provisions are made for the cover (5) to consist of a one-piece, plate-like elastomer material and for groove-like depressions (10) extending in the direction of partitions (6) to be present as a seal for the gas ducts (8).

Abstract: A methodology and apparatus for determining ventilator settings including an end expiratory pressure setting, pressure swing, resistive unloading and target ventilation for delivering ventilatory support based upon generalized patient ventilation characteristics and/or disease classifications. An apparatus may be programmed with the instructions to accomplish the methodology interactively by prompting the user/physician during setup and calculating settings based upon measurements or input responses. Pre-assigned values associated with ventilation characteristics or disease classifications may be combined with a base pressure value or measured values to provide patient customized settings or adjustments to determine pressure levels for the delivery of ventilatory support.

Abstract: A respiratory mask assembly for delivering breathable gas to a patient includes a mask frame having a first cooperating interlocking structure; a mask cushion provided to the frame; a cushion clip to retain the mask cushion on the mask frame, the cushion clip having a second cooperating interlocking structure and being selectively attachable to and detachable from the mask frame, the first and second cooperating interlocking structures interlocking to secure the cushion clip on the mask frame; and an elbow joint provided to the frame and having a swivel tube adapted to connect to a gas delivery conduit. The first and second cooperating interlocking structures include a tab-recess arrangement in which a plurality of tabs are engageable within respective recesses.

Abstract: A cushion for a patient interface that delivers breathable gas to a patient includes a base wall structured to be connected to a frame, an underlying support cushion extending away from the base wall towards the patient's face in use, and a membrane provided to substantially cover at least a portion of the underlying cushion. The membrane is adapted to form a continuous seal on the patient's face. The underlying cushion has a spring-like connection with the base wall. The underlying cushion and/or base wall define a spring constant that varies along a length of the seal.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention are directed to positive airway pressure therapy apparatus and methods for using same. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes a body- (e.g., head-) mounted housing enclosing a blower, wherein the housing includes air inlets on multiple sides so that the blower may draw adequate air even when inlets on one side are obstructed. In another embodiment, the apparatus includes a mask or mask system securable to an airway of the user. The mask system may include a mask shell and two or more adapters configured to permit the attachment of two or more different mask seals to the same mask shell. Other embodiments of the invention describe strapping systems configured to removably attach the housing and the mask to the body. The apparatus may further include a drying mode that activates upon removal of the apparatus from the user.

Abstract: A patient interface having a forehead support adjustably. The forehead support assembly includes a support arm that is adjustably mounted to the mask shell, thereby allowing the adjustment of the distance between the forehead support bracket and the mask shell in order to adjust for patient's of different sizes. A forehead support bracket is pivotally connected to the support arm. The pivoting forehead support bracket is self-aligning to allow the forehead pad to remain parallel to the patient's forehead at all times, thus enhancing comfort and stability. The forehead support bracket is removable from the support arm, allowing the headgear (with support bracket attached) to be donned separately from the mask and support arm. The forehead support bracket in one embodiment has a forehead pad formed from the headgear itself.

Abstract: A medical device may include a gas delivery apparatus, a patient interface, a connection system, and an electrical circuit. The gas delivery apparatus may be configured to deliver gas to a patient. The patient interface may be configured to interface with the patient to deliver gas communicated by the gas delivery apparatus to the patient. The connection system may be configured to communicate gas from the gas delivery apparatus to the patient interface. The electrical circuit may be configured to communicate electrical signals between the patient interface and the gas delivery apparatus, and may including one or more first electrical conductors at least partially integral with the patient interface and one or more second electrical conductors at least partially integral with the connection system.

Abstract: A connector arrangement joining a respiratory mask and headgear is adapted for single-handed disengagement by the patient. A first, rigid connector part is formed into the rigid mask frame, with a mating second connector attached to a strap of the headgear. The connectors are held away from the patient's face by the connection to the mask frame.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to a method and apparatus for supplying a fluid, including but not limited to oxygen and/or medications to a non-human animal in a configuration that does not require a human to hold a component on the animal.

Abstract: Systems, devices and methods of use adapted for treatment of respiratory disease or sleep disordered breathing include a patient interface (10) adapted to be secured to and sealed against a portion of a patient's face, in use. A flow generator is adapted to be connected to the patient interface and to be secured by a portion of the patient's body. The flow generator includes a blower (50) adapted to provide pressurised breathable gas to a patient through the patient interface. The blower is adapted to be at least partially vibrationally isolated from the patient's body by at least one dampening system (49) or device. The dampening device or system is adapted to reduce the amount of transmitted vibration received by the patient. A PAP system includes a patient interface including sealing arrangement (30) adapted to form a seal with the patient's nose and/or mouth and headgear (40) to support the sealing arrangement in position on the patient's head.

Abstract: A CPAP system includes a PAP device (5) structured to generate a supply of pressurized air, a patient interface (15) adapted to engage with the patient's face to provide a seal, an air delivery conduit (102,104) provided between the PAP device and the patient interface to deliver the supply of pressurized air along a gas delivery path from the PAP device to the patient interface, and a muffler (100) provided along the gas delivery path downstream of the PAP device.

Abstract: An air delivery system for providing a supply of air from a source of air at positive pressure to an interfacing structure located at the entrance to the airways of a patient includes a manifold adapted to connect with the supply of positive air pressure and at least one tube connected to the manifold and adapted to deliver the supply of air to the interfacing structure. Each tube is structured to allow movement between an open phase in which the tube allows the passage of air and a collapsed phase in which the tube is collapsed. Each tube is structured such that weight of a typical patient's head against bedding apparel is sufficient to collapse the tube from the open phase to the collapsed phase.

Abstract: A patient interface system includes a nasal seal of flexible material to communicate with at least one airway of the patient, and a primary headgear from which the nasal seal is suspended, said primary headgear having at least one aperture though which at least a portion of the nasal seal is inserted with the primary headgear wrapping about at least one portion of the nasal seal in a sling-like fashion.

Abstract: A mask system includes a frame (20) adapted to attach headgear, a sealing arrangement (40) releasably connectable to the frame, and an elbow (70) provided to the sealing arrangement and adapted to be connected to an air delivery tube that delivers breathable gas to the patient. The sealing arrangement defines a breathing chamber and is adapted to form a seal with the patient's face. The sealing arrangement includes structure (50) to establish a positive connection with the frame and with the elbow.

Abstract: A mask cushion or a mask assembly therewith provides a comfortable and effective seal for provision of a gas therapy by a respiratory treatment apparatus. The mask cushion (102) may be integrated with or coupled to a mask frame. The mask cushion typically includes an inner cushion component (104). The mask cushion also includes a patient facial-contact side portion with a chamber (108) and a barrier (106) to form the chamber that may be flexible. The chamber may serve as an outer layer with respect to the inner cushion component. The chamber may be partially or completely filled with a gas, fluid or gel. The inner cushion may be formed with a soft flexible material such as an elastomer or foam, etc. The barrier may be a membrane and may also be soft flexible material.

Abstract: A headgear for use with a patient interface for delivering a flow of breathable gas to a patient includes at least a strap (741) adapted to position the patient interface in sealing engagement with the patient's airways. The strap is constructed from an elastomer and a first side of the strap includes a first region (215) on a portion of its surface that is textured to reduce friction with objects contacting the strap. A textured surface coating for a portion of an elastomer strap included in a headgear system is adapted to contact the skin of a patient, when in use, and the coating has a Ra value greater than zero. A vent (500) for use with a patient interface for delivering a flow of breathable gas to a patient includes a plurality of rises (580) and runs (570) in a stepped arrangement; and a plurality of holes (510) in the stepped arrangement for the venting of gas.

Abstract: A respiratory mask assembly includes a respiratory mask and a forehead support secured to the mask via a joining member. The forehead support includes a cushion frame pivotably mounted to the joining member so as to be pivotably movable relative to the mask when the cushion frame is secured to the mask. At least one cushion is mounted on the cushion frame. A finger-operated adjustment control member is provided to the cushion frame. The finger-operated adjustment control member is manually manipulable to adjust a position of the cushion frame relative to the joining member along a predetermined path generally towards and away from the patient's forehead.

Abstract: A dual tube mask system having a shell attached to a frame where the shell has a primary port that is connected to a machine for blowing breathable gas to the mask through a tube. A nasal cannula is disposed within the shell and is connected to a source of oxygen.

Abstract: A patient interface assembly that includes a patient interface device, a headgear, and pivoting coupling member joining the interface device to a headgear assembly. In one embodiment, the patient interface device is a nasal cushion that includes a formable support mounted to the nasal cushion for providing support and adjustment of the nasal cushion to improve fit and comfort. In a further embodiment, a pair of rigid connecting members couple the patient interface device to the headgear.

Abstract: To provide a compact and low-power-consumption artificial respirator and an operation method therefore including a controller which alternately switches between a first state for feeding inspiratory air stored in the reservoir tank to a patient and a second state for releasing expired air of the patient. A pressurizing pump has a discharge function for reversing a reduction of pressure within the reservoir tank, which is caused due to the inspiration, within an expiration period of time.

Abstract: A respiration appliance (10), system (40), and method (62, 72, 86) for supporting the airway of a subject (12) as the subject (12) breaths. The flow of gas from the lungs of the subject (12) during exhalation is leveraged to provide support to the airway. In particular, a body (14) that encloses one or more external orifices of the subject (12) provides a resistance differential between inhaled gas flows and exhaled gas flows that supports the subject's airway.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for respiration which consists at least of one body that delimits an inner chamber from an outer chamber, a region for sealing the device against parts of the face of a patient, fastening elements for positioning the device on the patient's head and a connection for supplying respiratory gas. The device is equipped with an actuator, which when adjusted, changes the distance of at least one part of the device from at least one part of the body of the patient.

Abstract: A breathing apparatus includes an air delivery assembly and a nasal interface. The air delivery assembly includes at least one passage couple to a supply of air. The nasal interface includes a resilient pad having a first side configured to releasably couple with the air delivery assembly. A second side of the resilient pad is configured to engage at least a portion of a users nose. The nasal interface further includes a first air passage and a second air passage. The first air passage and the second air passage are configured to provide an air pathway between the air delivery assembly and a respective first nasal passage and second nasal passage of the user.

Abstract: A system for delivering a humidified gas to a patient is disclosed. The system includes a supply tube having a first supply tube end and a second supply tube end. The supply tube has a first inner diameter. The system also includes an apparatus for delivering heated and humidified gas to the first end of the supply tube and a single lumen having a first lumen end and a second lumen end. The single lumen has a second inner diameter, smaller than the first diameter. The first lumen end is in fluid flow communication with the second supply tube end. The system also includes a nasal cannula in fluid flow communication with the second lumen end. A method of delivering heated and humidified gas to a patient is also disclosed.