Claims:We claim:

1. A circuit connector for a humidification system, the humidification system comprising a base unit and a humidification chamber, the humidification chamber being configured to be engageable with the base unit, the circuit connector comprising:
an inlet configured to provide a fluid connection to an outlet of the humidification chamber to receive heated and/or humidified gases therefrom;
an outlet configured to provide a fluid connection to a conduit for directing the heated and/or humidified gases to or from a patient or other person; and
an electrical terminal configured to provide an electrical connection to an electrical terminal associated with the base unit,
wherein the circuit connector is configured to make a releasable and lockable connection to the outlet of the humidification chamber, thereby providing the fluid connection from the inlet of the circuit connector to the outlet of the humidification chamber, such that the circuit connector also provides the electrical connection from the electrical terminal of the circuit connector to the electrical terminal associated with the base unit when the humidification chamber is engaged with the base unit and the circuit connector is connected to the outlet of the humidification chamber.
2. The circuit connector of claim 1, wherein:
the circuit connector is configured to be connected to the outlet of the humidification chamber such that the circuit connector can be connected to the outlet of the humidification chamber before or after the humidification chamber is engaged with the base unit without impacting the ability to connect the humidification chamber to be engaged with the base unit; and/or
the circuit connector is preassembled connected to the outlet of the humidification chamber for shipping and/or storage; and/or
the humidification chamber and the conduit connector are configured to be removed from the base unit with the conduit connector attached to the outlet port.
3. The circuit connector of claim 1 or 2, wherein the circuit connector is configured to make the releasable and lockable connection to the outlet of the humidification chamber and the electrical connection from the electrical terminal of the circuit connector to the electrical terminal associated with the base unit in a single direction of motion.
4. The circuit connector of any one of the preceding claims, comprising an orientator configured to orientate the circuit connector relative to the outlet of the humidification chamber and/or to orientate the electrical terminal of the circuit connector relative to the electrical terminal associated with the base unit.
5. The circuit connector of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the electrical terminal of the circuit connector is electrically connected to one or more heater wires and/or one or more sensor wires, the conduit comprising said one or more heater wires and/or said one or more sensor wires.
6. The circuit connector of any one of the preceding claims, comprising a recess or projection configured to be engaged by a latch on a wall of the outlet of the humidification chamber, thereby providing said releasable and lockable connection of the circuit connector to the outlet of the humidification chamber.
7. The circuit connector of any one of the preceding claims, comprising a latch configured to engage a recess or projection of a wall of the outlet of the humidification chamber, thereby providing said releasable and lockable connection of the circuit connector to the outlet of the humidification chamber.
8. The circuit connector of claim 7, wherein the latch comprises one or more buttons protruding outward from the latch and an upper portion of the latch that deflects away from an axial centre of the conduit connector when inward force is applied to the one or more buttons.
9. The circuit connector of claim 8, wherein the upper portion of the latch is configured to engage the recess or projection of the wall of the outlet of the humidification chamber.
10. The circuit connector of claim 9, wherein:
the upper portion of the latch is configured to disengage the recess or projection of the wall of the outlet of the humidification chamber when inward force is applied to the one or more buttons; and/or
the upper portion of the latch is configured to disengage the recess or projection of the wall of the outlet of the humidification chamber when the upper portion deflects away from the axial center of the conduit connector.
11. The circuit connector of any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least a portion of the circuit connector is receivable inside the outlet of the humidification chamber.
12. The circuit connector of claim 11, comprising an inner plug portion comprising an outer groove near a distal end of the inner plug portion, and a seal member disposed in the outer groove, wherein the seal member is configured to seal against an inside of the outlet of the humidification chamber when the circuit connector is connected to the outlet, wherein optionally:
the seal member is generally T-shaped or V-shaped.
13. A circuit connector apparatus for a humidification system, the humidification system comprising a base unit and a humidification chamber, the circuit connector comprising:
an inlet configured to provide a fluid connection to an outlet of the humidification chamber to receive heated and/or humidified gases therefrom;
an outlet configured to provide a fluid connection to a conduit for directing the heated and/or humidified gases to or from a patient or other person;
an electrical terminal configured to provide an electrical connection to an electrical terminal associated with the base unit; and
an orientator configured to orientate the circuit connector relative to the outlet of the humidification chamber.
14. The circuit connector of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the electrical terminal of the circuit connector is substantially parallel to the inlet of the circuit connector thereby enabling both the electrical and fluid connections to be effected in a single motion.
15. A medical tube comprising the circuit connector of any one of the preceding claims, wherein optionally:
the circuit connector is integral to or connected to a conduit; and/or.
the medical tube is configured to form at least part of an inspiratory limb of a respiratory circuit.
16. A conduit for transporting breathing gases comprising:
a first end configured to be connected to a patient interface to provide breathing gases to the patient interface;
a second end configured to be connected to the circuit connector of any one of the preceding claims; and
a lumen extending between the first end and the second end, the first and second ends each defining an opposed end of the lumen.
17. The conduit of Claim 16, further comprising the circuit connector according to any one or more of claims 1-14, wherein:
the conduit is configured to be connected to the outlet of the humidification chamber using the circuit connector, and
the conduit is an inspiratory conduit.
18. A humidification chamber for a humidification system, the humidification chamber comprising:
an outer wall;
an upper wall connected to the outer wall, the outer wall and the upper wall at least partially defining a volume for containing a liquid;
an inlet to receive gases into the humidification chamber from a gases source; and
an outlet configured to connect to a circuit connector for directing heated and/or humidified gases from the humidification chamber to a patient or other person,
wherein the outlet is configured to provide a releasable and lockable connection to the circuit connector and/or comprises an orientator to control the orientation of the circuit connector relative to the outlet.
19. The humidification chamber of claim 18, wherein the orientator comprises a recess configured to slidably engage a projection on the circuit connector, or a projection configured to slidably engage a recess in the circuit connector, such that the circuit connector can only be slid onto the outlet of the humidification chamber in a predetermined orientation.
20. The humidification chamber of claim 18 or 19, wherein the outlet of the humidification chamber comprises:
a first portion that extends substantially vertically from the humidification chamber; and
a second portion that extends substantially horizontally from the first portion, the second portion being downstream of the first portion, in use,
wherein optionally:
the inlet of the circuit connector is configured to provide a fluid connection to the second portion of the circuit connector.
21. The humidification chamber of any one of claims 18-20, wherein the circuit connector comprises a cut-out to accommodate the first portion, the cut-out inhibiting or limiting engagement of the circuit connector to the outlet of the humidification chamber when not correctly orientated to accommodate the first portion received in the cut-out, wherein optionally:
the cut-out is contoured to have a wider opening and a narrower termination, thereby providing tolerance as to the orientation of the circuit connector on initial engagement and correcting the orientation on continued engagement as the circuit connector is pushed towards the outlet of the humidification chamber.
22. The humidification chamber of any one of claims 18-21, comprising a recess or projection configured to be engaged by a latch of the circuit connector, thereby providing said releasable and lockable connection of the circuit connector to the outlet of the humidification chamber.
23. The humidification chamber of any one of claims 18-22, comprising a latch configured to engage a recess or projection of the circuit connector, thereby providing said releasable and lockable connection of the circuit connector to the outlet of the humidification chamber.
24. The humidification chamber of any one of claims 18-23, comprising an activator for disengaging the latch from the recess or projection to allow removal of the circuit connector from the outlet of the humidification chamber, wherein optionally the activator comprises at least one manually depressible button or switch.
25. The humidification chamber of any one of claims 18-24, wherein the outlet of the humidification chamber is configured to receive at least a portion of the circuit connector inside the outlet of the humidification chamber.
26. The humidification chamber of any one of claims 18-25, comprising an orientator to control orientation of the humidification chamber relative to the base unit.
27. A base unit for a humidification system, in which system a humidification chamber is configured to be engageable with the base unit, the humidification chamber comprising:
an inlet port and an outlet port,
at least one sensor probe extending from the base unit and configured to be received in at least one aperture in the inlet port or outlet port,
the at least one sensor probe mounted on a flexible mount configured to provide for repeatable insertion depth of the at least one sensor probe in the inlet port or outlet port.
28. The base unit of claim 0, wherein the at least one sensor extends from a cartridge coupled to the base unit.
29. A base unit for a humidification system, in which system a humidification chamber is configured to be engageable with the base unit, a circuit connector is configured to fluidly connect to an outlet of the humidification chamber, and an electrical terminal of the circuit connector is configured to electrically connect to an electrical terminal associated with the base unit, wherein the base unit is configured to receive the humidification chamber in a direction substantially the same or parallel to a direction in which the electrical terminal of the base unit is configured to electrically connect to the electrical terminal of the circuit connector.
30. The base unit of claim 29, comprising a cartridge coupled to the base unit, the humidification chamber and circuit connector configured to be engageable with the cartridge, the cartridge comprising the electrical terminal of the base unit and at least one sensor configured to be received in a port of the humidification chamber, wherein the port of the humidification chamber is configured to receive the at least one sensor in a direction substantially the same or parallel to a direction in which the electrical terminal of the base unit is configured to electrically connect to the electrical terminal of the circuit connector.
31. A cartridge for use with a heater base, the heater base configured to receive a humidification chamber having an inlet port and an outlet port, the outlet port configured to receive a circuit connector comprising an electrical connector, the cartridge comprising:
a receiver configured to receive the electrical connector of the circuit connector; and
a shroud disposed above and to the sides of the receiver and extending forward from the cartridge,
wherein the shroud is configured to cover a portion of the circuit connector when the circuit connector is coupled to the outlet port, and wherein the shroud is configured to guide insertion of the circuit connector on the outlet port so that the electrical connector is guided into the receiver.
32. The cartridge of Claim 0, wherein the shroud is configured to reduce the likelihood of spilled liquid coming into contact with the electrical connector.
33. The cartridge of Claim 31 or 32, comprising a sensor extending forward from the cartridge, the shroud disposed above and to the sides of the sensor, the shroud configured to protect the sensor from damage due to contact with other components during assembly, use, cleaning, or the like.
34. The cartridge of Claim 33, wherein:
the sensor is positioned below the receiver; and/or
the sensor configured to be received in an aperture in the outlet port when the humidification chamber is received on the heater base.
35. The cartridge of any one of Claims 31–34, wherein a lower portion of the shroud comprises rails configured to engage or support a bottom surface of the circuit connector such that the bottom of the circuit connector rests against a top surface of the rails when the circuit connector is engaged with the outlet port and cartridge to help inhibit or prevent upward rotation of the circuit connector.
36. The cartridge of any one of Claims 31–35, comprising a protrusion positioned below the receiver, wherein the protrusion is configured to engage a post on the outlet port.
37. A humidification system comprising:
a base unit comprising a receptacle and a heater plate, the heater plate being disposed in the receptacle;
a humidification chamber comprising an inlet port and an outlet port, the humidification chamber being configured to be received in the receptacle of the base unit; and
a conduit connector configured to connect the outlet port of the humidification chamber to a gases delivery conduit, the conduit connector being configured to provide a pneumatic connection to the outlet port;
wherein, the humidification chamber is configured to be received in the receptacle of the base unit along a first axis; the conduit connector is configured to engage the outlet port of the humidification chamber along a second axis; and, the first and second axes are parallel to each other.
38. The humidification system of Claim 37, wherein:
the conduit connector comprises a first electrical terminal;
the base unit further comprises a second electrical terminal, the second electrical terminal being configured to be complementary to the first electrical terminal;
wherein, the first and second electrical terminals are operative to be coupled to form an electrical connection along a third axis, the third axis being parallel to the first and second axes.
39. The humidification system of Claim 37 or 38, wherein the circuit connector is configured to be connected to the outlet port of the humidification chamber such that the circuit connector can be connected to the outlet port of the humidification chamber before or after the humidification chamber is engaged with the base unit without impacting the ability of the humidification chamber to be engaged with the base unit.
40. The humidification system of any one of Claims 37–39, wherein the humidification chamber and the conduit connector are operative to form a subassembly when the conduit connector is slidably engaged to the humidification chamber; and wherein an electrical connection is provided or effected between the conduit connector and the base unit and/or a control module associated with the base unit when said subassembly is slidably engaged to the base unit.
41. The humidification system of Claim 40, wherein the base unit further comprises at least one sensor configured to be received in an aperture of the humidification chamber, wherein insertion of the at least one sensor in the aperture of the humidification chamber is provided or effected when said subassembly is slidably engaged to the base unit.
42. The humidification system of any one of Claims 37–41, wherein the base unit further comprises one or more sensor probes extending from the base unit, the one or more sensor probes being configured to be inserted into apertures of the humidification chamber along a fourth axis when the humidification chamber is received in the receptacle of the base unit along the first axis, the first and fourth axes being parallel to each other.
43. The humidification system of Claim 42, wherein the one or more sensor probes extend from a sensor mount structure configured to be coupled to the base unit.
44. The humidification system of Claim 42 or 43, wherein:
the inlet port and the outlet port of the humidification chamber each comprises at least one aperture; and
at least one of the one or more sensor probes is configured to be inserted into the at least one aperture of the inlet port, and at least another one of the one or more sensor probes is configured to be inserted into the at least one aperture of the outlet port.
45. The humidification system of Claim 42 or 43, wherein a first sensor probe of the one or more sensor probes is positioned on a first portion of the sensor mount structure, and second and third sensor probes of the one or more sensor probes are positioned on a second portion of the sensor mount structure.
46. The humidification system of Claim 45, wherein:
the inlet port or the outlet port of the humidification chamber includes a pair of apertures;
the other one of the inlet port or the outlet port of the humidification chamber includes a single aperture;
the first sensor probe is configured to be inserted into the single aperture and the second and third sensor probes are configured to be inserted into the pair of apertures when the humidification chamber is urged onto the heater plate; and
the first, second and third sensor probes extend parallel to each other.
47. The humidification system of any one of Claims 42–46, wherein:
the one or more sensor probes are configured to be inserted into corresponding apertures of the humidification chamber in a single motion; and
the humidification chamber further comprises a conductive base adapted to contact or to be associated with the heater plate of the base unit and the one or more sensor probes are inserted into apertures of the humidification chamber as the conductive base of the humidification chamber is urged into contact with the heater plate.
48. The humidification system of any one of Claims 42–47, wherein:
the inlet port of the humidification chamber is configured to receive gases from a gases source;
the circuit connector is configured to provide a releasable and lockable connection to the outlet port of the humidification chamber;
the humidification chamber is configured to provide a releasable and lockable connection to the base unit; and
the circuit connector is not fixedly or lockably attachable to the base unit and/or to a coupler located between the circuit connector and the base unit.
49. A method for assembling a humidification system, the method comprising:
slidably engaging a humidification chamber to a base unit in a first direction; and
slidably engaging a circuit connector to an outlet of the humidification chamber in a second direction;
wherein, the first and second directions are substantially the same.
50. The method of claim 49, wherein said slidably engaging the circuit connector to the outlet of the humidification chamber results in or effects electrical connection of the circuit connector to the base unit and/or a sensor mount structure associated with the base unit.
51. The method of claim 49 or 50, wherein the circuit connector is configured to be slidably engaged to the outlet port of the humidification chamber such that the circuit connector can be connected to the outlet port of the humidification chamber before or after the humidification chamber is slidably engaged with the base unit without impacting the ability of the humidification chamber to be slidably engaged with the base unit.
52. The method of claim 50 or 51, wherein:
the humidification chamber comprises an inlet port and an outlet port each including at least one aperture;
the base unit and/or the sensor mount structure associated with the base unit comprises at least one sensor configured to be received in the at least one aperture; and
said slidably engaging the humidification chamber comprises inserting a sensor probe of the at least one sensor into the at least one aperture of the inlet port, and inserting another sensor probe of the at least one sensor into the at least one aperture of the outlet port.
53. The method of claim 52, wherein:
the inlet port or the outlet port of the humidification chamber comprises a pair of apertures;
the other one of the inlet port or the outlet port of the humidification chamber comprises a single aperture; and
said slidably engaging the humidification chamber comprises inserting a first sensor probe of the at least one sensor into the single aperture, and inserting second and third sensor probes of the at least one sensor into the pair of apertures when the humidification chamber is urged onto a heater plate of the base unit, the first, second and third sensor probes extending parallel to each other.
54. The method of claim 50 or 51, wherein said slidably engaging the humidification chamber comprises inserting the sensor probes into corresponding apertures of the humidification chamber in a single motion.
55. A method of assembling a humidification system, the method comprising:
slidably engaging a circuit connector to an outlet of a humidification chamber in a first direction to form a subassembly of the humidification chamber and the circuit connector; and
slidably engaging the subassembly to a base unit in a second direction;
wherein the first and second directions are substantially the same.
56. The method of claim 55, wherein said slidably engaging the subassembly results in or effects electrical connection of the circuit connector to the base unit and/or a sensor mount structure associated with the base unit.
57. The method of claim 55 or 56, wherein the base unit comprises at least one sensor configured to be received in an aperture of the humidification chamber, wherein insertion of the at least one sensor in the aperture of the humidification chamber is provided or effected when said subassembly is slidably engaged to the base unit.
58. The method of claim 57, wherein insertion of the at least one sensor in the aperture and electrical connection of the circuit connector to the base unit and/or sensor mount structure associated with the base unit occur in a single motion.
59. The method of claim 57 or 58, wherein:
the humidification chamber comprises an inlet port and an outlet port each comprising at least one aperture; and
said slidably engaging the subassembly comprises inserting a sensor probe of the at least one sensor into the at least one aperture of the inlet port, and inserting another sensor probe of the at least one sensor into the at least one aperture of the outlet port.
60. The method of claim 59, wherein:
the inlet port or the outlet port of the humidification chamber comprises a pair of apertures;
the other one of the inlet port or the outlet port of the humidification chamber comprises a single aperture; and
said slidably engaging the subassembly comprises inserting a first sensor probe of the at least one sensor into the single aperture, and inserting second and third sensor probes of the at least one sensor into the pair of apertures when the humidification chamber is urged onto a heater plate of the base unit, the first, second and third sensor probes extending parallel to each other.
61. The method of claim 57 or 58, wherein said slidably engaging the subassembly comprises inserting the sensor probes into corresponding apertures of the humidification chamber in a single motion.
62. A method for assembling a humidification system, the method comprising:
in a first step, slidably engaging a humidification chamber to a base unit in a first direction; and, in a second step, slidably engaging a circuit connector to an outlet of the humidification chamber in a second direction, wherein the first and second directions are substantially the same, or
in a first step, slidably engaging a circuit connector to an outlet of a humidification chamber in the first direction to form a subassembly of the humidification chamber and the circuit connector; and, in a second step, slidably engaging the subassembly to a base unit in the second direction, wherein the first and second directions are substantially the same.
63. A humidification system comprising:
a base unit with a heater plate and an electrical terminal;
a humidification chamber comprising, a conductive base, an inlet port and an outlet port, an outer wall defining a volume, the chamber receivable on the base unit such that the conductive base and the heater plate are brought adjacent or in contact with each other;
a tube/circuit including a circuit connector at one end, the circuit connector including an inlet and an electrical connector adjacent to the inlet, wherein the inlet of the circuit connector is connectable to the outlet port of the humidification chamber to form a pneumatic connection, wherein the system is configured such that:
in a first step, the humidification chamber is slidably engageable to the base unit in a first direction; and, in a second step, the circuit connector is slidably engageable to an outlet of the humidification chamber in a second direction, wherein the first and second directions are substantially the same, or
humidification chamber in the first direction to form a subassembly of the humidification chamber and the circuit connector; and, in a second step, the subassembly is slidably engageable to the base unit in the second direction, wherein the first and second directions are substantially the same.
64. The humidification system of claim 63, wherein the circuit connector is associated with a medical tube, and wherein the circuit connector forms an electrical connection with an electrical terminal of the base unit in only a single direction.
65. The humidification system of claim 64, wherein the single direction forming the electrical connection between the circuit connector electrical connector and the electrical terminal of the base unit being is parallel to the first and second directions.
66. The humidification system of any one of claims 63-65, wherein the base unit comprises one or more sensors, the sensors being insertable into the humidification chamber in a direction parallel to the first and/or second directions, the sensors being inserted as the chamber is slid onto the base unit.
67. The humidification system of any one of claims 63–66, wherein, in order to disassemble the humidification system, the chamber and circuit connector as an interconnected unit can be removed from the base unit or the circuit connector can be disconnected followed by removal of the chamber from the base unit.
68. A cartridge component of a humidification apparatus comprising:
a body;
a plurality of sensor probes configured to be coupled to the body,
each of the sensor probes being supported by or mounted on a resilient member, configured to couple a probe to the body the resilient member being shaped and configured to allow multi-axial movement of the sensor probes relative to the body.
69. A humidification system comprising:
a base unit;
a cartridge configured to be removably coupled to the base unit; and
one or more probes configured to be coupled to the cartridge;
wherein each of the one or more probes are coupled to a resilient member configured to be coupled to the cartridge.
70. The humidification system of claim 69, wherein each probe is supported by or mounted on or associated with a single resilient member.
71. The humidification system of claim 69, wherein two or more probes are supported by or mounted on a single resilient member.
72. The humidification system of claim 69, wherein the probe comprises:
a body;
at least one flange extending outwardly from the body; and,
a sensor provided on a free end of the body distal from the at least one flange end.
73. The humidification system of claim 72, wherein the at least one flange is spaced away from the free end of the probe such that a distance between the free end and the at least one flange defines an insertion depth of the probe, when in use.
74. The humidification system of claim 69, wherein the resilient member comprises a body and at least one flange extending outwardly from the body.
75. The humidification system of claim 69, wherein the resilient member comprises a pair of flanges spaced apart from each other to define a recess.
76. The humidification system of claim 76, a portion of the cartridge being received within the recess to secure the resilient member to the cartridge.
77. The humidification system of claim 69, wherein the resilient member is:
configured to accommodate axial or multi-axial movement of the one or more probes relative to the cartridge; and/or
configured to allow the probe to extend and compress back to their original orientation; and/or
made from silicone; and/or
configured to compress or flex in any of a number of directions to allow repeatable insertion depths of the one or more probes into one or more apertures of a humidification chamber configured to be coupled in use to the base unit.
78. The humidification system of claim 69, wherein the resilient member comprises a tubular body and a portion of the tubular body is provided in a folded configuration.
79. The humidification system of claim 78, wherein the tubular body comprises an outer portion and an inner portion that are connected together proximate a flange of the probe.
80. The humidification system of claim 79, wherein:
the outer portion, the inner portion, and the connection of the outer and inner portions are integrally formed to define a unitary structure; and/or
the inner portion of the resilient member contacts and/or grips the portion of the probe; and/or
the outer portion of the resilient member is secured to the cartridge and the inner portion of the resilient member is secured to the probe.
81. The humidification system of claim 78, wherein the tubular body of the resilient member is configured to receive a portion of a probe such that the tubular body envelopes the portion of the probe.
82. The humidification system of claim 69, wherein:
the resilient member and the probe are configured to be secured together; and/or
the resilient member comprises at least one flange extending outwardly from a body of the resilient member, wherein optionally the at least one flange is D-shaped and/or is configured to be coupled to the cartridge.
83. The humidification system of claim 69, wherein the resilient member is resiliently compressible.
84. The humidification system of claim 69, wherein the cartridge comprises:
an electrical connector on one side configured to couple to a corresponding electrical connector of a gases transport tube; and/or
a data storage component.
85. The humidification system of claim 69, further comprising a humidification chamber comprising an inlet port and an outlet port, wherein the inlet port comprises a first opening configured to receive a first probe of the one or more probes and the outlet port comprise a second opening configured to receive a second probe of the one or more probes; and, wherein the resilient members allow multi- axial movement of the first and second probes such that the first and second probes are insertable into the first and second openings when at least one of the first and second openings is not aligned with at least one of the first and second probes.
86. The humidification system of claim 85, wherein: the first and second probes comprise at least one flange; and, the first opening and the second opening comprise a seal positioned within the openings and covering the openings such that the probes are removably insertable within the openings to contact the seal and the at least one flange of the probes is flush with the seal.
87. The humidification system of claim 86, wherein each seal comprises a flat base and the at least one flange of a probe sits flush with the flat base when the probe is inserted into an opening in the inlet port and/or outlet port.
88. The humidification system of claim 87, wherein the stiffness of the resilient member is greater than a stiffness of the seal associated with the openings in the humidification chamber such that a force required to fully stretch the seal is less than a force required to compress the resilient member.
89. The humidification system of claim 69, wherein the one or more probes comprises a body, at least one flange extending outwardly from the body and, an elongate tapered portion extending outwardly from a main body of the resilient member and outwardly from the at least one flange.
90. The humidification system of claim 69, wherein the cartridge comprises one or more receptacles to receive the one or more probes and/or the resilient member, wherein optionally the receptacles are D-shaped so as to receive a D-shaped flange of the resilient member.
91. A probe mount for mounting a sensor probe to a humidifier unit or a component of a humidifier, comprising:
a resilient member, wherein the resilient member comprises a main body that is formed to define a resilient portion, and,
wherein the main body is configured to be coupled to a sensor probe to allow multi-axial movement of the sensor probe.
92. The probe mount of claim 91, wherein:
the resilient portion is shaped and configured to allow for multi-axial movement of the sensor probe; and/or
wherein the resilient portion is configured to compress, stretch or bend.
93. The probe mount of claim 91, wherein the main body comprises:
a tubular configuration defining a hollow portion, and wherein a portion of the sensor probe is receivable within the hollow portion; and/or
a folded portion that is folded back inside itself; and/or.
94. The probe mount of claim 91, wherein the main body comprises an outer portion and an inner portion that are connected to each other.
95. The probe mount of claim 94, wherein the inner portion is configured to contact and/or grip the sensor probe.
96. The probe mount of claim 95, wherein the sensor probe comprises a at least one flange and the connection between the inner portion and outer portion of the main body is positioned adjacent the at least one flange.
97. The probe mount of claim 91, wherein the main body comprises at least one flange extending outwardly from the main body.
98. The probe mount of claim 97, wherein the at least one flange comprises a circular shape.
99. The probe mount of claim 91, wherein the at least one flange is D-shaped.
100. The probe mount of claim 99 wherein the at least one D-shaped flange is configured to reduce a rotation of the sensor probe relative to the humidifier unit or the component of the humidifier.
101. The probe mount of claim 343, wherein:
the resilient member is configured to flex in a number of directions to allow repeatable insertion depths of the sensor probe into an opening of a humidification chamber; and/or
the resilient member is formed from silicone; and/or
the main body and the sensor probe are secured together.
102. A cartridge for use with a heater base, the heater base comprising a processor and/or memory, the cartridge comprising:
one or more sensors; and
a memory configured to store sensor calibration data,
wherein when the cartridge is coupled to the heater base, the memory of the cartridge is placed in communication with the processor and/or memory of the heater base.
103. The cartridge of claim 102, wherein:
the cartridge is configured to be removably coupled to the heater base; and/or
the cartridge comprises one or more sensors.
104. The cartridge of claim 102, wherein the calibration data comprises sensor calibration data.
105. The cartridge of claim 104, wherein:
sensor calibration data is utilised for improved sensor accuracy; and/or
the heater base memory is configured to download and store sensor calibration data.
106. The cartridge of claim 102, wherein the memory of the cartridge:
comprises an EEPROM and memory is configured to store the calibration data in EEPROM; and/or
comprises information regarding a latest software version available for the heater base; and/or
is configured to store data identifying number and type of sensors mounted on the cartridge; and/or
is configured to store data identifying a particular type or model of a cartridge.
107. The cartridge of claim 106, wherein the processor of the heater base is configured to communicate with the memory of the cartridge to identify the cartridge based on the stored data identifying a particular type or model of a cartridge.
108. The cartridge of claim 102, comprising an electrical connector on a face proximal to the heater base, wherein the electrical connector is configured to be electrically connected to an electrical terminal of the heater base, wherein the electrical connection facilitates communication between the cartridge memory and the processor and/or memory of the heater base.
109. The cartridge of claim 106, wherein the heater base processor is configured to:
upload the latest software version from the memory of the cartridge to the heater base memory when the cartridge is connected to the heater base; and/or
compare the software version being used by the processor or stored in the memory of the heater base with the software version stored in the memory of the cartridge; and/or
display a message on a display of the heater base if the software version being used by the processor or stored in the memory of the heater base does not match the software version stored in the memory of the cartridge.
110. The cartridge of claim 102, wherein the memory of the cartridge comprises lifespan information associated with the cartridge, and wherein optionally the heater base is configured to display the lifespan information associated with the cartridge.
111. The cartridge of claim 102, further comprising two or more upwardly extending tabs configured to engage with corresponding openings in the heater base.
112. The cartridge of claim 102, wherein the cartridge comprises a first outwardly extending pin and a second outwardly extending pin configured to engage with the heater base, wherein the first outwardly extending pin and the second outwardly extending pin being deflectable inwardly toward each other.
113. A humidification system comprising:
a heater base comprising a heater plate configured to contact a heat conductive portion of a removable humidification chamber;
a cartridge that is removably coupled to the heater base, the cartridge as per any one of claims 102–112.
114. The humidification system of claim 113, wherein the processor of the heater base is configured to utilize the calibration data from the memory of the cartridge to improve accuracy of sensor measurements.
115. A method of supporting a humidification chamber, the method comprising: providing a first cartridge configured for connection to a humidifier base, providing a second cartridge configured for connection to the humidifier base, wherein the first and second cartridge are distinct from each other and wherein the first cartridge is removed before the second cartridge is installed on the humidification chamber.
116. The method of claim 115, wherein the first and second cartridges are different from each other based on one or more of: components with which the cartridge is configured to interact with, type of memory, information or data stored in the memory of the first and second cartridges, and therapies associated with the first and second cartridges and associated components.
117. The method of Claim 116, wherein the information or data stored in the memory of the first and second cartridges includes one or more of:
data identifying a particular type or model of cartridge;
a number and type of sensors mounted on the cartridge;
operational data particular to a cartridge model.
118. The method of Claim 115, further comprising coupling the first cartridge and/or the second cartridge to the humidifier base, wherein the coupling comprises triggering a software update to the heater base.
119. The method of Claim 115, wherein the first and second cartridge comprise a memory.
120. The method of Claim 119, wherein:
the memory is an EEPROM and the EEPROM allows each of the first and second cartridges to have a different software configuration; and/or
the first and second cartridges comprise at least one sensor, wherein the memory store sensor calibration data configured to increase accuracy of the at least one sensor
121. The method of claim 119, wherein the first and second cartridges have distinct physical characteristics from each other.
122. A humidification system comprising:
a heater base, and
a first cartridge and a second cartridge each configured to be removably coupled to the heater base;
wherein:
the first and second cartridges are different to each other;
the first and second cartridges are exchangeable such that only one cartridge connects to the heater base at one time; and
operation of the humidification system is determined based on a type of cartridge being connected to the heater base.
123. The humidification system of claim 122, wherein each of the first and second cartridges comprise an electrical feature defining operational data associated with a particular cartridge model or a particular individual cartridge.
124. The humidification system of claim 123, wherein the electrical feature is a memory unit.
125. The humidification system of claim 123, wherein the heater base comprises a processor and a memory configured to be electrically connected with the electrical feature of the first and/or second cartridges.
126. The humidification system of claim 122, wherein the first cartridge comprises a first memory and the second cartridge comprises a second memory.
127. The humidification system of claim 126, wherein the first memory of the first cartridge and the second memory of the second cartridge are configured to store data identifying the type or model of the cartridge being connected to the heater base.
128. The humidification system of claim 127, wherein the heater base processor is configured to read the identifying data stored in the first memory of the first cartridge or the second memory of the second cartridge and select operational data and/or executable code from the heater base memory for the particular cartridge connected to the heater base.
129. The humidification system of claim 128, wherein the first and second memories of the first and second cartridges comprise:
operational data particular to each cartridge model such that the operational data is uploaded to the heater base processor and/or memory when the cartridge is coupled to the heater base; and/or
a different version of software, and wherein changing the cartridge facilitates uploading of a newer version of software onto the heater base memory.
130. The humidification system of claim 122, wherein a hardware configuration of the first and the second cartridges is different, and wherein optionally the hardware configuration comprises one or more of: sensor wire connectors, heater wire connectors, and directly mounted probes.
131. The circuit connector of claim 13, wherein:
the base unit comprises a cartridge integrally formed therewith and the cartridge comprises the electrical terminal associated with the base unit; or
a cartridge is removably coupleable to the base unit and the cartridge comprises the electrical terminal associated with the base unit.
132. The circuit connector of claim 131, wherein the cartridge comprises one or more sensors, at least one sensor configured to be received into the outlet port of the humidification chamber.
133. The circuit connector of any one of claims 13, 131 and 132, wherein the orientator comprises a recess configured to receive a projection disposed on an outlet of the humidification chamber.
134. The circuit connector of claim 133, wherein the recess is generally keyhole shaped.
135. The circuit connector of any one of claims 13, 131 and 132, wherein the orientator comprises a projection configured to slidably engage a recess in the outlet of the humidification chamber.
136. The circuit connector of any one of claims 13, 131–135, wherein the electrical terminal of the circuit connector comprises:
one or more electrical contact elements configured to, in use, make contact with one or more tracks of a printed circuit board, the electrical terminal associated with the base unit comprising said printed circuit board; or
a printed circuit board comprising one or more tracks configured to, in use, make contact with one or more electrical contact elements, the electrical terminal associated with the base unit comprising said one or more electrical contact elements.
137. The circuit connector of any one of claims 13, 131–135, wherein the electrical terminal of the circuit connector comprises:
an edge card configured to, in use, be received in an edge card receptacle, the electrical terminal associated with the base unit comprising said edge card receptacle; or
an edge card receptacle configured to, in use, receive an edge card, the electrical terminal associated with the base unit comprising said edge card.
138. The circuit connector of claim 137, wherein the humidification chamber is configured to be inserted on the base unit along a first axis, and the edge card is configured to be received in the edge card receptacle along a second axis, wherein the second axis is parallel to the first axis.
139. A humidification system comprising:
a base unit;
a humidification chamber configured to operatively connect to the base unit and comprising an inlet port and an outlet port; and
a conduit to transport gases,
wherein the conduit comprises the circuit connector of any one of claims 13, 131–139 to provide for removably coupling to the outlet of the humidification chamber.
140. The humidification system of claim 139, wherein the conduit is removably engageable with the base unit.
141. A connector assembly configured to couple an inspiratory conduit to an outlet port of a humidification chamber, the humidification chamber configured to be installed on a base unit, the base unit comprising at least one sensor extending from the base unit and configured to be received in an aperture in the outlet port when the humidification chamber is installed on the base unit, the connector assembly comprising:
a keyhole cutout extending into the connector assembly from a first end configured to be placed over the outlet port, the keyhole cut-out configured to fit around the at least one sensor; and
an electrical connector configured to be received in a corresponding receptacle on the heater base.
142. The connector assembly of Claim 141, wherein the connector assembly comprises an elbow connector and a conduit connector, the elbow connector configured to be coupled to the outlet port, the elbow connector comprising the keyhole cut-out, the conduit connector coupled to the inspiratory conduit and configured to be coupled to the elbow connector, the conduit connector comprising the electrical connector.
143. The connector assembly of Claim 141 or 142, comprising an identification component configured to be measured by the heater base when the electrical connector is received in the receptacle on the heater base, wherein:
a processor of the heater base is configured to determine a model of the inspiratory conduit based on the measurement of the identification component; and
the processor is configured to select operational, control, and/or therapy parameters based on the determined model.
144. The connector assembly of Claim 143, wherein:
the identification component is a resistor having a first resistance value in a first range of values;
the inspiratory conduit comprises at least one heater wire having a second resistance value in a second range of values; and
the first range of values does not overlap with the second range of values.
145. A humidification system comprising:
a base unit comprising:
one or more sensor probes extending from the base unit; and
a receptacle and a heater plate, the heater plate being disposed in the receptacle;
a humidification chamber configured to be received in the receptacle of the base unit in a first direction, the humidification chamber comprising at least one aperture that is configured to receive the one or more sensor probes in a second direction,
wherein the first direction and the second direction are substantially the same.
146. A humidification system comprising:
a base unit comprising a receptacle and a heater plate, the heater plate being disposed in the receptacle;
a humidification chamber configured to be received in the receptacle of the base unit, the humidification chamber comprising:
an inlet port;
an outlet port; and
at least one aperture configured to receive one or more sensor probes,
wherein the at least one aperture is positioned on a portion of the humidification system other than the inlet port and the outlet port of the humidification chamber.
147. A circuit connector for a humidification system, the humidification system comprising a base unit and a humidification chamber, the humidification chamber being configured to be engageable with the base unit, the circuit connector comprising:
an inlet configured to provide a fluid connection to an outlet of the humidification chamber to receive heated and/or humidified gases therefrom; and
an outlet configured to provide a fluid connection to a conduit for directing the heated and/or humidified gases to or from a patient or other person;
an inner plug portion comprising an outer groove; and
a seal member disposed in the outer groove, the seal member being configured to seal against an inside of the outlet of the humidification chamber when the circuit connector is connected to the outlet of the humidification chamber,
wherein the seal member is generally T-shaped.
148. A cartridge for use with a respiratory humidifier, the cartridge configured to be coupled, in use, with a heater base unit for supplying humidified gases to a user, the cartridge comprising:
a housing comprising a rear surface; and
a compartment defined by the housing, an electrical component positioned within the compartment, an electrical connector connected to the electrical component, the rear surface of the housing defining an opening through which the electrical connector is exposed,
wherein the electrical connector is positioned in a lower portion of the rear surface to allow for a small swing angle when coupling the cartridge with the heater base unit.
149. A cartridge for use with a heater base, the heater base comprising a processor and/or memory, the cartridge comprising:
one or more sensors; and
a memory configured to store identification data related to the cartridge,
wherein when the cartridge is coupled to the heater base, the memory of the cartridge is placed in communication with the heater base to confirm the identity of the cartridge.

[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.

[0002] The present application claims priority benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/877,784, filed on September 13, 2013; U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/024,969, filed on July 15, 2014; U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/919,485, filed on December 20, 2013; U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/877,566, filed on September 13, 2013; U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/032,462, filed on August 1, 2014; U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/877,622, filed on September 13, 2013; and U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/877,736, filed on September 13, 2013, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

Field

[0003] The present disclosure generally relates to devices and methods for providing heated and/or humidified gases to a user. More particularly, certain features, aspects and advantages of the present disclosure relate to apparatuses and techniques that provide for or enable connections between components of a humidification system. Certain features, aspects and advantages of the present disclosure may be used for providing gases to and/or removing gases from a patient, such as in positive airway pressure (PAP), respirator, anaesthesia, ventilator, and/or insufflation systems.

Description of the Related Art

[0004] Gases humidification systems deliver heated and humidified gases for various medical procedures, including respiratoiy therapy, laparoscopy, and the like. These systems can be configured to control temperature and/or humidity. While a variety of such systems have been developed, further improvements of such systems are desired.

[0005] Gases humidification systems also include medical circuits comprising various components that can be used to transport heated and/or humidified gases to and from patients. For example, in some breathing circuits, such as PAP or assisted breathing circuits, gases inhaled by a patient are delivered from a heater-humidifier through an inspiratory tube or conduit. As another example, tubes can deliver humidified gas (commonly C02) into the abdominal cavity in insufflation circuits. This can help prevent dessication or "drying out" of the patient's internal organs, and can decrease the amount of time needed for recovery from surgery. Unheated tubing allows significant heat loss to ambient cooling. This cooling may result in unwanted condensation or "rainout" along the length of the tubing transporting warm, humidified air. Heater wires may extend inside of at least a portion of the tubing forming the circuit to prevent or at least reduce the likelihood of the formation of significant condensation.

[0006] While prior arrangements have provided the desired therapies, a need remains for further improvements to the humidification apparatus and methods relating to the same. Accordingly, it is an object of certain features, aspects and advantages of the disclosure to overcome or ameliorate one or more of the disadvantages of the prior art or to at least provide the public with a useful choice.

SUMMARY

[0007] A first aspect of the present disclosure involves a cartridge configured to be removably coupled to a heater base for supplying humidified gases to a user. The heater base comprises a base portion. The base portion comprises a heater plate. The heater plate is configured to contact a heat conductive portion of a removable humidification chamber. The cartridge comprises a data storage component. The data storage component is configured to communicate with a processor in the heater base when the cartridge is coupled to the heater base.

[0008] In some configurations, the data storage component stores at least one of: data identifying a model of the cartridge, therapy settings, operating parameters, calibration data or an operating algorithm.

[0009] Γη some configurations, the chamber comprises at least one interlocking feature configured to releasably engage at least one corresponding interlocking feature of the humidification chamber when the humidification chamber is installed on the heater base.

[0010] In some such configurations, the cartridge comprises a body configured to be coupled to the heater base and sidewalls extending forward from the body when the cartridge is coupled to the heater base. The humidification chamber is configured to be received between the sidewalls when the humidification chamber is installed on the heater base. The at least one interlocking feature of the cartridge comprises two clips. Each clip is mounted in or on one of the sidewalls and has a cantilevered portion and a portion at least partially protruding inwardly from an inner surface of the sidewall. The at least one corresponding interlocking feature of the humidification chamber comprises two recesses formed in an outer body of the humidification chamber. Each recess is configured to receive the protruding portion of one of the clips when the humidification chamber is installed on the heater base. The cantilevered portions of the clips are configured to deflect outward as the humidification chamber is being installed on the heater base.

[0011] In some configurations, the cartridge comprises at least one sensor configured to be received in the humidification chamber when the humidification chamber is installed on the heater base. The at least one sensor is configured to measure at least one property of gases flowing through the humidification chamber.

[0012] In some such configurations, the calibration data stored on the data storage component of each cartridge comprises data usable by the heater base to calibrate the at least one sensor of that cartridge. The sensor calibration data can be configured to improve accuracy of the at least one sensor.

[0013] In some configurations, a receiver is configured to connect with an electrical component of a conduit.

[0014] In some configurations, the receiver comprises a component arranged to receive an electrical component, for example, an electrical component of a conduit, in a direction that is generally aligned with a direction of movement of the humidification chamber during connection of the humidification chamber to the heater base.

[0015] A second aspect of the present disclosure involves a method of supporting a humidification chamber comprising: providing a first cartridge configuration configured for connection to the humidifier base, and providing a second cartridge configuration configured for connection to the humidifier base, wherein the first cartridge configuration and the second cartridge configuration have distinct physical characteristics from each other and wherein the first cartridge configuration must be disconnected from the humidifier base before the second cartridge configuration can be connected to the humidifier base.

[0016] In some configurations, the first cartridge configuration differs from the second cartridge configuration in terms of information or data stored.

[0017] Tn some configurations, coupling the first cartridge configuration and/or the second cartridge configuration can trigger a software update to the humidifier base.

[0018] In some configurations, the first and second cartridge configurations include a memoiy. The memory can be an EEPROM. In some such configurations, the EEPROM allows each cartridge configuration to have a different software configuration. In some configurations, at least one of the first and second cartridges includes at least one sensor. In some such configurations, the memory stores sensor calibration data configured to increase accuracy of the at least one sensor.

[0019] A third aspect of the present disclosure involves a connector assembly configured to couple an inspiratory conduit to an outlet port of a humidification chamber. The humidification chamber is configured to be installed on a heater base. The heater base comprises at least one sensor extending from the heater base and configured to be received in an aperture in the outlet port when the humidification chamber is installed on the heater base. The connector assembly comprises a keyhole cutout extending into the connector from a first end configured to be placed over the outlet port. The keyhole is configured to fit around the sensor. The connector assembly comprises an electrical connector configured to be received in a corresponding receptacle on the heater base.

[0020] In some configurations, the connector assembly comprises an elbow connector and a conduit connector. The elbow connector is configured to be coupled to the outlet port. The elbow connector comprises the keyhole. The conduit connector is coupled to the inspiratory conduit and is configured to be coupled to the elbow connector. The conduit connector comprises the electrical connector.

[0021] In some configurations, an identification component is configured to be measured by the heater base when the electrical connector is received in the receptacle on the heater base, wherein a processor of the heater base is configured to determine a model of the inspiratory conduit based on the measurement of the identification component and the processor is configured to select operational, control, and/or therapy parameters based on the determined model.

[0022] In some configurations, the identification component is a resistor having a first resistance value in a first range of values, the inspiratory conduit comprises at least one heater wire having a second resistance value in a second range of values, and the first range of values does not overlap with the second range of values.

[0023] A fourth aspect of the present disclosure involves a conduit connector for a humidification system, the humidification system comprising a base unit and a humidification chamber, the humidification chamber being configured to be engageable with the base unit. The conduit connector comprises: an inlet configured to provide a fluid connection to an outlet of the humidification chamber to receive heated and/or humidified gases therefrom; an outlet configured to provide a fluid connection to a conduit for directing the heated and/or humidified gases to or from a patient or other person; and an electrical terminal configured to provide an electrical connection to an electrical terminal associated with the base unit, wherein the conduit connector is configured to make a releasable and lockable connection to the outlet of the humidification chamber, thereby providing the fluid connection from the inlet of the conduit connector to the outlet of the humidification chamber, such that the conduit connector also provides the electrical connection from the electrical terminal of the conduit connector to the electrical terminal associated with the base unit when the humidification chamber is engaged with the base unit and the conduit connector is connected to the outlet of the humidification chamber.

[0024] In some configurations, the circuit connector is configured to make the releasable and lockable connection to the outlet of the humidification chamber and the

electrical connection from the electrical terminal of the circuit connector to the electrical terminal associated with the base unit in a single direction of motion.

[0025] In some configurations, the circuit connector is configured to be connected to the outlet of the humidification chamber before or after the humidification chamber is engaged with the base unit. The circuit connector can be preassembled connected to the outlet of the humidification chamber for shipping and/or storage. The humidification chamber can be configured to be removed from the base unit with the conduit connector attached to the outlet port.

[0026] In some configurations, the conduit connector comprises an orientator configured to orientate the conduit connector relative to the outlet of the humidification chamber and/or to orientate the electrical terminal of the conduit connector relative to the electrical terminal associated with the base unit.

[0027] The orientator may comprise a recess configured to slidably engage a projection on the outlet of the humidification chamber such that the conduit connector can only be slid onto the outlet of the humidification chamber in a predetermined orientation. Conversely, the orientator may comprise a projection configured to slidably engage a recess in the outlet of the humidification chamber.

[0028] The provision of orientation features aids in ensuring that there is alignment of the electrical terminal of the conduit connector with the electrical terminal associated with the base unit, providing increased ease of assembly. Further, the releasable and lockable connection of the conduit connector to the outlet of the humidification chamber can ensure the correct orientation is maintained.

[0029] The outlet of the humidification chamber may comprise a first portion that extends substantially vertically from the humidification chamber and a second portion that extends substantially horizontally from the first portion, the second portion being downstream of the first portion, in use, wherein the inlet of the conduit connector is configured to provide a fluid connection to the second portion of the conduit connector. According to this embodiment, the conduit connector may comprise a cutout to accommodate the first portion, the cutout inhibiting or limiting engagement of the conduit connector to the outlet of the humidification chamber when not correctly orientated to accommodate the first portion received in the cutout.

[0030] The cutout may be contoured to have a wider opening and a narrower tennination, thereby providing tolerance as to the orientation of the conduit connector on initial engagement and correcting the orientation on continued engagement as the conduit connector is pushed towards the outlet of the humidification chamber.

[0031] The electrical terminal of the conduit connector may comprise one or more pins or other electrical contact elements configured to, in use, make contact with one or more tracks of a printed circuit board, the electrical terminal associated with the base unit comprising said printed circuit board. Alternatively, the electrical terminal of the conduit connector may comprise a printed circuit board comprising one or more tracks configured to, in use, make contact with one or more pins or other electrical contact elements, the electrical terminal associated with the base unit comprising said one or more pins or other electrical contact elements.

[0032] The electrical terminal of the conduit connector may alternatively comprise an edge card configured to, in use, be received in an edge card receptacle, the electrical terminal associated with the base unit comprising said edge card receptacle.

[0033] The electrical terminal of the conduit connector may alternatively comprise an edge card receptacle configured to, in use, receive an edge card, the electrical terminal associated with the base unit comprising said edge card.

[0034] In some configurations, the humidification chamber is configured to be inserted on the base unit along a first axis, and the edge card is configured to be received in the edge card receptacle along a second axis, wherein the second axis is parallel to the first axis.

[0035] Other forms of electrical terminals will be apparent to those skilled in the art and are included within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0036] The electrical terminal of the conduit connector may be electrically connected to one or more heater wires and/or one or more sensor wires, the conduit comprising said one or more heater wires and/or said one or more sensor wires, or having said heater wire(s) and/or said sensor wire(s) associated therewith.

[0037] The conduit connector may comprise a recess or projection configured to be engaged by a latch of the humidification chamber (the latch preferably being provided on a wall of the outlet of the humidification chamber), thereby providing said releasable and lockable connection of the conduit connector to the outlet of the humidification chamber.

[0038] The conduit connector may additionally or alternatively comprise a latch configured to engage a recess or projection of a wall of the outlet of the humidification chamber, thereby providing said releasable and lockable connection of the conduit connector to the outlet of the humidification chamber.

[0039] The latch can include one or more buttons protruding outward from the latch and an upper portion of the latch that deflects away from an axial center of the conduit connector when inward force is applied to the one or more buttons. The upper portion of the latch can be configured to engage the recess or projection of the wall of the outlet of the humidification chamber. In some configurations, the upper portion of the latch is configured to disengage the recess or projection of the wall of the outlet of the humidification chamber when inward force is applied to the one or more buttons. The upper portion of the latch can be configured to disengage the recess or projection of the wall of the outlet of the humidification chamber when the upper portion deflects away from the axial center of the conduit connector.

[0040] The conduit connector preferably comprises an activator configured for disengaging the latch from the recess or projection to allow removal of the conduit connector from the outlet of the humidification chamber.

[0041] The activator may comprise at least one manually depressible button or switch.

[0042] At least a portion of the conduit connector may be receivable inside the outlet of the humidification chamber. In some configurations, the circuit connector includes an inner plug portion. The inner plug portion includes an outer groove near a distal end of the inner plug portion. The circuit connector can also include a seal member disposed in the outer groove. The seal member is configured to seal against an inside of the outlet of the humidification chamber when the circuit connector is connected to the outlet. The seal member can be generally T-shaped. The seal member can be generally V-shaped.

[0043] A fifth aspect of the present disclosure involves a conduit connector for a humidification system, the humidification system comprising a base unit and a humidification chamber, the conduit connector comprising: an inlet configured to provide a fluid connection to an outlet of the humidification chamber to receive heated and/or humidified gases therefrom; an outlet configured to provide a fluid connection to a conduit for directing heated and/or humidified gases to or from a patient or other person; an electrical terminal configured to provide an electrical connection to an electrical terminal associated with the base unit; and an oiientator configured to orientate the conduit connector relative to the outlet of the humidification chamber.

[0044] The electrical terminal of the conduit connector is preferably substantially parallel to the inlet of the conduit connector and/or to a direction of engagement used to electrically connect the electrical terminal of the conduit connector to the electrical terminal associated with the base unit, thereby enabling both the electrical and fluid connections to be effected in a single motion.

[0045] A sixth aspect of the present disclosure involves a medical tube comprising the conduit connector of the fourth or fifth aspects. The conduit connector may be integral to or connected to a conduit and/or configured to form at least part of an inspiratory limb of a respiratory circuit.

[0046] A seventh aspect of the present disclosure involves a humidification chamber for a humidification system, the humidification chamber comprising: an outer wall; an upper wall connected to the outer wall, the outer wall and the upper wall at least partially defining a volume for containing a liquid; an inlet to receive gases into the humidification chamber from a gases source; and an outlet configured to connect to a conduit connector for directing heated and/or humidified gases from the humidification chamber to a patient or other person; wherein the outlet is configured to provide a releasable and lockable connection to the conduit connector and/or comprises an orientator to control the orientation of the conduit connector relative to the outlet.

[0047] The orientator may comprise a recess configured to slidably engage a projection on the conduit connector such that the conduit connector can only be slid onto the outlet of the humidification chamber in a predetermined orientation. Conversely, the

orientator may comprise a projection configured to slidably engage a recess in the conduit connector such that the conduit connector can only be slid onto the outlet of the humidification chamber in a predetermined orientation.

[0048] The outlet of the humidification chamber preferably comprises a first portion that extends substantially vertically from the humidification chamber and a second portion that extends substantially horizontally from the first portion, the second portion being downstream of the first portion, in use.

[0049] The humidification chamber may comprise a recess or projection configured to be engaged by a latch of the conduit connector, thereby providing said releasable and lockable connection of the conduit connector to the outlet of the humidification chamber. Alternatively, the humidification chamber may comprise a latch configured to engage a recess or projection of the conduit connector.

[0050] The humidification chamber may comprise an activator for disengaging the latch from the recess or projection to allow removal of the conduit connector from the outlet of the humidification chamber.

[0051] The activator may comprise at least one manually depressible button or switch.

[0052] The outlet of the humidification chamber may be configured to receive at least a portion of the conduit connector inside the outlet of the humidification chamber.

[0053] The humidification chamber may comprise an orientator to control orientation of the humidification chamber relative to the base unit.

[0054] An eighth aspect of the present disclosure involves a humidification chamber for a humidification system, the humidification chamber comprising: an outer wall; an upper wall connected to the outer wall, the outer wall and the upper wall at least partially defining a volume for containing a liquid; an inlet to receive gases from a gases source; an outlet configured to connect to a conduit connector for directing heated and/or humidified gases to a patient or other person; and an orientator to control orientation of the humidification chamber relative to the base unit.

[0055] The orientator may comprise a recess configured to slidably engage a projection on or associated with the base unit such that the humidification chamber can only be engaged with the base unit in a predetermined orientation. Alternatively, the orientator may comprise a projection configured to slidably engage a recess in or associated with the base unit such that the humidification chamber can only be engaged with the base unit in a predetermined orientation.

[0056] The orientator is preferably configured to orientate, at least in part, the conduit connector relative to the outlet of the humidification chamber. Additionally or alternatively, the orientator may be configured to orientate, at least in part, an electrical terminal of the conduit connector relative to an electrical terminal associated with the base unit.

[0057] In some preferred configurations, the humidification chamber is configured to couple to the base unit, at least in part, via a coupling portion of or associated with the base unit. Additionally or alternatively, at least the electrical terminal of the conduit connector may be configured to connect with an electrical terminal of the coupling portion. Further connections may be provided between the coupling portion and the base unit for exchanging information therebetween and/or electrical power, such as for powering heater wires in the conduit, via the conduit connector.

[0058] In some preferred configurations, at least a downstream end of the outlet of the humidification chamber is oriented in a substantially parallel direction to a direction of engagement of the humidification chamber with the base unit. Additionally or alternatively, a direction of engagement of an electrical terminal of the conduit connector to the electrical terminal the base unit and/or a coupling portion of the base unit is substantially parallel to at least a downstream end of the outlet of the humidification chamber, and/or a direction of engagement of the humidification chamber with the base unit.

[0059] Preferably, the humidification chamber comprises an outlet configured to connect to the conduit connector of the fourth or fifth aspects.

[0060] A ninth aspect of the present disclosure involves a coupler for a humidification system, the coupler comprising: first connections configured to structurally and electrically connect the coupler to a base unit of the humidification system, the base unit configured to operatively engage a humidification chamber; second connections configured to electrically connect the coupler to a conduit connector that is configured to fluidly connect an outlet of the humidification chamber to a conduit to deliver heated and/or humidified gases to a patient or other person, wherein the coupler comprises one or more guide portions for orientating the humidification chamber and/or the conduit connector relative to the base unit as the humidification chamber and/or the conduit connector are brought into engagement with the coupler.

[0061] The first and second connections are preferably configured to be made by urging the humidification chamber and/or the conduit connector in substantially the same direction i.e., preferably the directions are parallel.

[0062] In some configurations, one of the one or more guide portions includes a groove configured to slidably engage a rail associated with the humidification chamber such that engagement of the humidification chamber with the coupler aligns the humidification chamber with the base unit. The groove can be tapered from front to back. In some configurations, one of the one or more guide portions comprises a rail configured to slidably engage a groove in the humidification chamber such that engagement of the humidification chamber with the coupler aligns the humidification chamber with the base unit.

[0063] A tenth aspect of the present disclosure involves a base unit for a humidification system, in which system a humidification chamber is configured to be engageable with the base unit, a conduit connector is configured to fluidly connect to an outlet of the humidification chamber, and an electrical terminal of the conduit connector is configured to electrically connect to an electrical terminal associated with the base unit, the base unit comprising: one or more guide portions for orientating the humidification chamber and/or the conduit connector relative to the base unit as the humidification chamber and/or the conduit connector are brought into engagement with the base unit.

[0064] An eleventh aspect of the present disclosure involves a base unit for a humidification system, in which system a humidification chamber is configured to be engageable with the base unit, the humidification chamber comprising an inlet port and an outlet port, at least one sensor probe extending from the base unit and configured to be received in at least one aperture in the inlet port or outlet port, the at least one sensor probe mounted on a flexible mount configured to provide for repeatable insertion depth of the at

least one sensor probe in the inlet port or outlet port. In some configurations, the at least one sensor extends from a cartridge coupled to the base unit.

[0065] A twelfth aspect of the present disclosure involves a base unit for a humidification system, in which system a humidification chamber is configured to be engageable with the base unit, a conduit connector is configured to fluidly connect to an outlet of the humidification chamber, and an electrical terminal of the conduit connector is configured to electrically connect to an electrical terminal associated with the base unit, wherein the base unit is configured to receive the humidification chamber in a direction substantially the same or parallel to a direction in which the electrical terminal of the base unit is configured to electrically connect to the electrical terminal of the conduit connector.

[0066] In some configurations, the base unit further includes a cartridge coupled to the base unit, the humidification chamber and circuit connector configured to be engageable with the cartridge, the cartridge comprising the electrical terminal of the base unit and at least one sensor configured to be received in a port of the humidification chamber, wherein the port of the humidification chamber is configured to receive the at least one sensor in a direction substantially the same or parallel to a direction in which the electrical terminal of the base unit is configured to electrically connect to the electrical terminal of the circuit connector.

[0067] A thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure involves a base unit for a humidification system, in which system a humidification chamber is configured to be engageable with the base unit, the humidification chamber comprising an inlet port and an outlet port, two sensor probes extending from the base unit and configured to be received in an aperture in the inlet port of the humidification chamber, wherein the two sensor probes are spaced from each other by a lateral distance and a vertical distance, the lateral and vertical distances selected to reduce heat contamination while maintaining sufficient proximity to a center of the inlet port and sufficient distance from a wall of the inlet port to improve accuracy and reduce wall effects and other potential sources of error. In some configurations the two sensor probes extend from a cartridge coupled to the base unit.

[0068] A fourteenth aspect of the present disclosure involves a humidification system comprising: a conduit connector of the fourth or fifth aspects; and/or a medical tube of the sixth aspect; and/or a humidification chamber of the seventh or eighth aspects; and/or a coupler of the ninth aspect; and/or a base unit of the tenth or eleventh aspects.

[0069] Electrical and/or fluid and/or structural connections may be effected between the various components listed in the twelfth aspect, with the details thereof being specified with regards the fourth through eleventh aspects.

[0070] A fifteenth aspect of the present disclosure involves a humidification system comprising: a base unit; a humidification chamber configured to operatively connect to the base unit, the humidification chamber comprising an outer body defining a container, an inlet port comprising a wall defining a passage into the container, and an outlet port comprising a wall defining a passage out of the container; a conduit connector configured to connect the outlet port to a gases delivery conduit, wherein connection of the conduit connector to the outlet port is made in substantially the same direction as the connection of the humidification chamber to the base unit.

[0071] The conduit connector preferably comprises an electrical terminal configured to electrically connect the gases delivery conduit and/or the conduit connector to an electrical terminal associated with the base unit.

[0072] The electrical terminal of the conduit connector preferably connects to the electrical terminal associated with the base unit in substantially the same direction as the connection of the conduit connector to the outlet port of the humidification chamber and/or the connection of the humidification chamber to the base unit. Preferably, said direction is substantially horizontal.

[0073] Any one or more of the base unit, the humidification chamber, the conduit connector or a coupler provided between the humidification chamber and the base unit may include an orientator to control relative orientation of at least one of the others of the base unit, the humidification chamber, the conduit connector or the coupler.

[0074] A sixteenth aspect of the present disclosure involves a humidification system comprising: a base unit; a humidification chamber configured to operatively connect to the base unit, the humidification chamber comprising an outer body defining a container, an inlet port comprising a wall defining a passage into the container, and an outlet port comprising a wall defining a passage out of the container; a conduit connector configured to Z2014/000201

connect the outlet port to a gases delivery conduit, the conduit connector comprising an electrical terminal configured to electrically connect to an electrical terminal associated with the base unit, wherein any one or more of the base unit, the humidification chamber, the conduit connector or a coupler provided between the humidification chamber and the base unit include an orientator to control relative orientation of at least one of the others of the base unit, the humidification chamber, the conduit connector or the coupler.

[0075] The humidification system preferably comprises a pressurized gas source, the pressurized gas source comprising an outlet, the outlet of the pressurized gas source being connected or connectable to the inlet port of the humidification chamber, the humidification chamber defining a flow passage between the pressurized gas source and outlet port.

[0076] The conduit connector is preferably configured to provide a releasable and lockable connection to the outlet port of the humidification chamber.

[0077] The humidification chamber is preferably releasably and lockably engageable with the base unit.

[0078] The conduit connector is preferably not fixedly or lockably attachable to the base unit and/or the conduit connector is not fixedly or lockably attachable to a coupler located between the conduit connector and the base unit.

[0079] A seventeenth aspect of the present disclosure involves a method of attaching components of a humidification system, the method comprising: slidably engaging a humidification chamber to a base unit in a first direction; and slidably engaging a conduit connector to an outlet of the humidification chamber in a second direction, wherein the first and second directions are substantially the same.

[0080] Preferably, said slidably engaging the conduit connector to the outlet of the humidification chamber results in or effects electrical connection of the conduit connector to the base unit and/or a control module associated with the base unit.

[0081] An eighteenth aspect of the present disclosure involves a method of attaching components of a humidification system, the method comprising: slidably engaging a conduit connector to an outlet of a humidification chamber in a first direction; and slidably engaging the humidification chamber and the conduit connector to a base unit in a second direction, wherein the first and second directions are substantially the same.

[0082] Preferably, said slidably engaging the humidification chamber and the conduit connector to a base unit results in or effects electrical connection of the conduit connector to the base unit and/or a control module associated with the base unit. In some configurations, the base unit includes at least one sensor configured to be received in an aperture of the humidification chamber, wherein slidably engaging the combined subassembly of the humidification chamber and the circuit connector to the base unit results in or effects insertion of the at least one sensor in the aperture. In some such configurations, insertion of the at least one sensor in the aperture and electrical connection of the circuit connector to the base unit and/or a control module associated with the base unit occur in a single motion. The first and second directions are preferably substantially horizontal.

[0083] A nineteenth aspect of the present disclosure involves a cartridge for use with a respiratoiy humidifier. The cartridge includes a housing comprising a rear perimeter and at least one securing member extending upwardly beyond an upper extreme of the rear perimeter of the housing, a compartment defined by the housing and a printed circuit board positioned within the compartment, an electrical connector connected to the printed circuit board and extending rearwardly of the compartment, and a first rearwardly protruding member and a second rearwardly protruding member extending outward beyond the rear perimeter of the housing, the first rearwardly protruding member comprising a first recess and the second rearwardly protruding member comprising a second recess, a first bolt extending from the first recess and a second bolt extending from the second recess, the exposed electrical connector being interposed between the first rearwardly protruding member and the second rearwardly protruding member.

[0084] In some configurations, the housing includes an upper surface and a rear surface, the upper surface extending forward a first distance from the rear surface and an upper portion of the securing member extending forward a second distance from the rear surface, the first distance being larger than the second distance. In some configurations, the housing includes at least two securing members separated from each other by a valley. In some such configurations, the opening in the rear surface is circumscribed on three sides by the ridge. The ridge can extend along two lateral sides and a bottom side of the opening. The first and second recesses can extend laterally relative to a rear surface of the housing. The first and second recesses can define openings into the first rearwardly protruding member and the second rearwardly protruding member. The first rearwardly protruding member can have a first side surface and the second rearwardly protruding member can have a second side surface, the first recess defining an opening in the first side surface and the second recess defining an opening in the second side surface. The first and second recesses can be generally vertically aligned relative to the rear surface of the housing. The compartment defined by the housing can be generally water-tight. In some configurations, a first spring is positioned within the first recess and contacts the first bolt, a second spring is positioned within the second recess and contacts the second bolt, a first lever is connected with the first bolt and a second lever is connected with the second bolt.

[0085] A twentieth aspect of the present disclosure involves a cartridge for use with a respiratory humidifier that includes a housing comprising a rear surface and at least one securing member extending upwardly beyond an upper extreme of the rear surface of the housing, a compartment defined by the housing, an electrical component positioned within the compartment, an electrical connector connected to the electrical component, the rear surface of the housing defining an opening through which the electrical connector is exposed, a first outwardly extending pin extending laterally outward beyond an immediately adjacent portion of the housing and a second outwardly extending pin extending laterally outward beyond an immediately adjacent portion of the housing, the first outwardly extending pin and the second outwardly extending pin being deflectable inwardly toward each other, and the electrical connector being laterally generally interposed between the first outwardly extending pin and the second outwardly extending pin and vertically generally interposed between the first and second outwardly extending pins and the at least one securing member.