The present invention relates to a valve module a nd filter for use in an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas.
BACKGROUND ART
[0002] Breathing assistance apparatuses are used in various environments such as hospital, medical facility, residential care, or home environments to deliver a flow of gas to users or patients.
SUMMARY
[0003] The applicant has identified potential difficulties in replacing va lves or servicing other components in breathing assistance apparatuses, which typically require substantia l disassembly of the housing of the breathing assistance apparatus which risks compromising seals of the apparatus. That could potentia lly render the apparatus susceptible to liquid, gas, or solid particulate ingress. If oxygen was to ingress into the apparatus, it may be a safety risk. If liquid was to ingress into the apparatus, it could reduce dielectric strength of electronic components, such as by short-circuit or corrosion. Ingress of solid particulates could be problematic if the solid particulates enter into the gas flow path.

[0004] The applicant has also identified potential difficulties in positioning apparatuses with connected gases lines, which gases lines may prevent the apparatus from being positioned correctly and/or which may be damaged during the positioning of the a pparatus.

[0005] The applicant has also identified potential issues with gas entrainment in filters that enable gases to mix in the filter and/or that enable gases to pass back through gases inlets.

[0006] The applicant has also identified pressure d rops in appa ratuses that utilise filters and va lves, caused by flow resistance from direction cha nges, restrictions, convergences, divergences, filter mediums, and different frictional characteristics acting on gases passing throug h components caused by different material use for different components.

[0007] Accordingly, it would be desirable to provide a valve module that is readily replaceable.

[0008] Add itiona lly or alternatively, it would be desirable to provide an apparatus with a gases inlet that can be selectively positioned to enable easy positioning of the appa ratus.

[0009] Add itiona lly or alternatively, it would be desirable to provide a filter that assists with entrainment of gas in an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas.

[0010] Add itiona lly or alternatively, it would be desirable to provide a valve module or a filter that minimises pressure drop.

[0011] It is an object of one or more of the disclosed embodiments to provide a filter, a valve module, or an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas that goes at least some way toward achieving one of the above desirable outcomes, or that at least provides the public or a medical professional with a useful choice.

[0012] Thus, in accorda nce with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a valve module for a n appa ratus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the va lve module comprising : a filter for an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas, the filter comprising : a filter body, wherein the filter body has a ma in compartment a nd a sub-compartment at least partly within the main compa rtment, wherein the main compartment is in fluid

communication with a main compa rtment gases inlet and the sub-compartment is in fluid communication with a sub-compartment gases inlet; and a filter medium associated with both the main compa rtment and the sub-compartment, and that is arranged to filter gases in, or exiting, the main compartment and the sub-compartment.

[0013] In some configurations, the filter is a filter module that is removably and sea lably engageable with a housing of an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas. [0014] In some configurations, the filter comprising seal(s) about an external periphery of the filter to sealingly engage the filter in the housing of the apparatus.

[0015] In some configurations, the seal(s) comprise(s) O-ring(s) or integrally formed 'wiper' seal(s).

[0016] In some configurations, the ma in compartment is defined by at least one main compartment wall bound ing a main compartment volume.

[0017] In some configurations, the sub-compartment is defined by at least one sub-compartment wall bound ing a sub-compartment volume at least partly within the main compa rtment volume.

[0018] In some configurations, the filter comprising a second sub-compartment at least partly within the main compartment, wherein the second sub-compartment is arranged to receive gas from a second sub-compartment gases inlet.

[0019] In some configurations, the filter medium comprises substantially a same material as the filter body.

[0020] In some configurations, the filter body comprises polypropylene material or other suitable polymeric material, and wherein the filter medium comprises spun polypropylene, other suitable polymeric or synthetic material(s), and/or wool fibres.

[0021] In some configurations, the filter medium is ultrasonically welded to the at least one main compartment wa ll and the at least one sub-compartment wall.

[0022] In some configurations, the at least one main compartment wall a nd the at least one sub-compartment wa ll a re shaped to provide a large ultrasonic weld area .

[0023] In some configurations, the main compartment is substantially rectang ular in profile.

[0024] In some configurations, the filter comprises a filter top pa nel that is attached or attachable to the filter body.

[0025] In some configurations, the filter top panel is attachable to the filter body by way of a snap fit.

[0026] In some configurations, the filter top panel is arranged to be substantially flush with a housing of the appa ratus for delivering a flow of gas, when the filter is engaged with the housing.

[0027] In some configurations, the filter top panel comprises a handling feature to aid in insertion a nd/or removal of the filter from a housing of the apparatus for delivering a flow of gas.

[0028] In some configurations, the filter body comprises a gas supply line connector in fluid communication with the sub-compartment.

[0029] In some configurations, gas supply line connector comprises a gas supply line retention feature at or adjacent an upper end of the gas supply line connector.

[0030] In some config urations, the filter top panel comprises an opening that exposes a nd protectively surrounds the gas supply line connector.

[0031] In some configurations, the filter comprises a second sub-compartment at least partly within the main compartment, wherein the second sub-compartment is arranged to receive gas from a second sub-compartment gases inlet, and wherein a duct is provided in fluid communication with the second sub-compartment.

[0032] In some configurations, the duct is integrally formed with the filter body or is separately formed from the filter body.

[0033] Additiona lly, in accorda nce with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a filter for a n apparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the filter comprising : a filter body, wherein the filter body has a main compartment that is in fluid

communication with a main compa rtment gases inlet and a ma in compartment gases outlet, wherein the main compa rtment gases outlet is substantially pla nar and is spanned by a filter med ium, and wherein the main compartment gases inlet and main compartment gases outlet are arranged such that a gas flow direction through the inlet is offset from a gas flow d irection through the outlet.

[0034] In some configurations, the gas flow d irection throug h the main compartment gases inlet is at an a ngle of about 30° to about 150° relative to the gas flow direction through the main compartment gases outlet.

[0035] In some configurations, the gas flow d irection throug h the main compartment gases inlet is at an a ng le of about 60° to 120° to the gas flow direction through the main compa rtment gases outlet.

[0036] In some configurations, the gas flow d irection throug h the main compartment gases inlet is substantially perpendicular to the gas flow direction through the main compartment gases outlet.

[0037] In some configurations, the main compartment is substantially rectang ular in profile.

[0038] In some configurations, at least a portion of the main compartment tapers inwardly such that a portion of the main compartment spaced further from the ma in compartment gases inlet has a smaller dimension than a portion of the main compa rtment adjacent the main compartment gases inlet.

[0039] In some configurations, at least a portion of the main compartment tapers outwardly such that a portion of the main compartment spaced further from the ma in compartment gases inlet has a larger dimension tha n a portion of the main compa rtment adjacent the main compartment gases inlet.

[0040] In some configurations, the filter body comprises a sub-compartment at least partly within the ma in compartment a nd that is in fluid communication with a sub-compa rtment gases inlet.

[0041] In some configurations, the sub-compartment comprises a sub-compartment gases outlet, a nd wherein the filter medium spans the sub-compartment gases outlet.

[0042] In some configurations, the gas flow d irection throug h the sub-compartment gases inlet is at an a ng le of about 30° to 150° to the gas flow direction through the sub-compartment gases outlet.

[0043] In some configurations, the gas flow d irection throug h the sub-compartment gases inlet is at an a ng le of about 60° to 120° to the gas flow direction through the sub-compartment gases outlet.

[0044] In some configurations, the gas flow d irection throug h the sub-compartment gases inlet is substantially perpendicular to the gas flow direction through the sub- compartment gases outlet.

[0045] In some configurations, a ratio of the area of the sub-compartment gases inlet to the sub-compartment gases outlet is between about 1 : 5 and about 1 : 80, or is between about 1 : 1 and about 1 :40, or is about 1 : 20.

[0046] In some configurations, at least a portion of the sub-compartment tapers inwardly.

[0047] In some configurations, the filter comprises a second sub-compartment at least partly within the main compartment, wherein the second sub-compartment is arranged to receive gas from a second sub-compartment gases inlet.

[0048] In some configurations, the second sub-compartment comprises a second sub-compartment gases outlet, and wherein the filter medium spans the second sub-compartment gases outlet.

[0049] In some configurations, the gas flow d irection throug h the second sub-compa rtment gases inlet is at a n angle of about 30° to 150° to the gas flow direction through the sub-compartment gases outlet.

[0050] In some configurations, the gas flow d irection throug h the second sub- compartment gases inlet is at an a ngle of about 60° to 120° to the gas flow direction through the sub-compartment gases outlet.

[0051] In some configurations, the gas flow d irection throug h the second sub- compartment gases inlet is substantia lly perpendicular to the gas flow direction through the second sub- compa rtment gases outlet.

[0052] In some configurations, a ratio of the area of the second sub-compartment gases inlet to the second sub-compartment gases outlet is between about 1 : 5 and about 1 : 80, or is between about 1 : 10 a nd about 1 :40, or is between about 1 : 20 and about 1 :25.

[0053] In some configurations, at least a portion of the second sub-compartment tapers inwardly such that a portion of the second sub-compartment spaced further from the second sub-compartment gases inlet has a smaller dimension than a portion of the main compartment adjacent the second sub-compartment gases inlet.

[0054] In some configurations, a ratio of the a rea of the ma in compartment gases inlet to the area of the main compa rtment gases outlet is between about 1 : 10 and about 1 :40, or is between about 1 : 15 and about 1 : 30, or is between about 1 : 20 and about 1 :25.

[0055] In some configurations, the filter comprises any one or more of the features described above in relation to the first described aspect.

[0056] Additiona lly, in accorda nce with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the apparatus comprising : a filter body, the filter body having a compartment, a compartment filter medium associated with the compartment that is arranged to filter gases in, or exiting, the compartment; a n outlet filter medium associated with a gases outlet, to prevent, or at least substantially inhibit particulates from inadvertently entering the filter from the outlet; wherein one of the filter compartment medium and the outlet filter med ium are downstream of the other of the filter compartment medium and the outlet filter medium .

[0057] In some config urations, the outlet filter medium may be or comprise a sintered metal filter. Examples of suitable sintered metals include copper, bronze, or steel.

[0058] In some configurations, the apparatus comprises an O-ring associated with the outlet filter medium to seal the outlet filter. The O-ring may be between the filter extension duct and the filter and/or ma nifold outlet. Other appropriate seals may be used, such as a g rommet seal, or a face seal.

Add itionally, or a lternatively, the filter extension duct could seal with the manifold through an interference fit, or a tight clearance fit.

[0059] In some configurations, the filter could be sealed to the manifold outlet by an O-ring seal, a grommet seal, a face seal, and/or any other suitable seal . Alternatively, the lower seal may not be present.

[0060] Additiona lly, in accorda nce with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the apparatus comprising : a housing with a gases outlet for delivering a flow of gas to a patient; and a first gases inlet, a second gases inlet, a nd an ambient air inlet.

[0061] In some configurations, the apparatus comprises a filter to filter gases that have been received from the first gases inlet, the second gases inlet, and the ambient a ir inlet.

[0062] In some configurations, the apparatus comprises a blower arranged to receive gases from the filter and to deliver the gases to a gases outlet.

[0063] In some configurations, the apparatus comprises a flow control valve arranged to receive gas from the first gases inlet and to deliver the gas to the filter.

[0064] In some configurations, the apparatus comprises a valve mod ule that is removably engageable with the housing, wherein the valve module comprises the valve and a va lve ma nifold to receive gas from the valve, wherein the valve manifold has a va lve manifold gases outlet that is a rranged to deliver the gas from the flow control va lve to the filter.

[0065] In some config urations, the valve module comprises a va lve carrier that substantially contains and supports the valve and the valve manifold .

[0066] In some configurations, the ambient a ir inlet is provided in the valve carrier.

[0067] In some config urations, the valve module is arra nged to d irectly couple with the filter to provide a gas flow path from the va lve module to the filter. [0068] In some configurations, the first gases inlet is arranged to move relative to the housing .

[0069] In some configurations, the filter comprises a filter body, wherein the filter body has a ma in compartment, a first sub-compartment at least partly within the main compartment, and a second compartment at least partly within the ma in compartment, wherein the first gases inlet, the second gases inlet, and the ambient air inlet are each in fluid communication with a respective one of the main compartment, the first sub-compartment, a nd the second sub-compartment.

[0070] In some configurations, the filter comprises a filter medium associated with all of the main compartment, the first sub-compartment, and the second sub-compartment, wherein the filter medium is a rranged to filter gases in, or exiting, the main compartment, the first sub-compartment, a nd the second sub-compartment.

[0071] In some configurations, the filter comprises a main compartment gases outlet, a first sub-compartment gases outlet, a nd a second sub-compartment gases outlet, and wherein the filter medium spans the main compartment gases outlet, the first sub-compartment gases outlet, and the second sub-compartment gases outlet.

[0072] In some configurations, the filter is removably engageable with the housing .

[0073] In some config urations, the apparatus is a nasal high flow therapy apparatus.

[0074] Add itiona lly, in accorda nce with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a valve module for an appa ratus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the va lve mod ule comprising : a flow control va lve, wherein the valve is arranged to control a flow of gas, an ambient air flow path passing through the valve module.

[0075] In some configurations, the ambient air flow path has an ambient a ir outlet for delivering ambient air to other components of the apparatus for delivering a flow of gas.

[0076] In some config urations, the ambient air outlet is adapted to deliver ambient air to a filter module.

[0077] In some config urations, the ambient air flow path is adapted to deliver ambient air such that it flows past one or more temperature sensors of the apparatus for delivering a flow of gas.

[0078] In some config urations, the ambient air flow path passes near or adjacent to the valve.

[0079] In some configurations, the valve module comprises a va lve manifold with a va lve manifold gases inlet a nd a valve manifold gases outlet.

[0080] In some configurations, the va lve is sealingly engaged with the valve manifold .

[0081] In some configurations, the valve is arranged to control a flow of gas from the valve manifold gases inlet to the valve manifold gases outlet.

[0082] In some configurations, the valve manifold has a shape that is complementary to the shape of the valve.

[0083] In some configurations, the va lve ma nifold has a substantially cylindrical body, and wherein the va lve has a substantia lly cylindrical body.

[0084] In some configurations, the va lve ma nifold gases outlet is radially located on the valve manifold .

[0085] In some configurations, the valve manifold valve manifold comprises a plurality of gases outlets that are rad ially located about the valve manifold .

[0086] In some configurations, the va lve module a valve carrier that substantially conta ins and supports the valve and the valve manifold .

[0087] In some configurations, the valve carrier comprises supporting structure to support the valve a nd valve ma nifold .

[0088] In some configurations, the valve carrier comprises a speaker housing a nd a n audio speaker located in the speaker housing .

[0089] In some configurations, the va lve module comprises one or more sensors on or in the valve carrier. In some configurations, one or more sensors comprises an ambient humidity sensor. In some configurations, the one or more sensors comprises an ambient pressure sensor. In some config urations, one or more sensors comprises an ambient temperature sensor.

[0090]

[0091] In some configurations, the valve carrier comprises a first va lve carrier pa rt and a second valve carrier part, wherein the va lve and valve ma nifold are secured in place at least partly between the first va lve carrier part and the second va lve carrier part.

[0092] In some configurations, the valve carrier comprises one or more guards.

[0093] In some configurations, the valve module comprises an electrical connector to provide an electrical connection between the va lve module and one or more of the other components of the apparatus for delivering a flow of gas.

[0094] In some configurations, the electrica l connector comprises a printed circuit board edge connector or wires.

[0095] In some configurations, the electrica l connector comprises a flexible printed circuit board .

[0096] In some configurations, the valve carrier comprises flow guiding structure, wherein the flow guiding structure is arranged to direct gas flow from the valve manifold gases outlet(s) toward a filter when the valve module is removably engaged with the housing.

[0097] In some configurations, the va lve module comprises a connector with a gases inlet, wherein the gases inlet of the connector is fluidly connectable to a gas supply line, and wherein the connector is arranged to provide a fluid connection between the gas supply line and the gases inlet of the va lve manifold, and wherein the gases inlet is movable relative to the valve manifold .

[0098] In some configurations, the connector is a swivel connector, wherein the gases inlet is oriented substantially transversely relative to a long itudinal axis of the va lve ma nifold, and wherein the gases inlet of the swivel connector is arranged to rotate about a longitud ina l axis of the valve manifold .

[0099] In some configurations, the connector is a swivel connector, wherein the gases inlet is oriented substantially transversely relative to a long itudinal axis of the va lve ma nifold, and wherein the gases inlet of the swivel connector is arranged to rotate in substantially any direction relative to the valve manifold via a ball and socket arra ngement.

[00100] In some configurations, the gases inlet of the swivel connector extends in a substantially perpendicula r direction relative to the longitudinal axis of the valve manifold .

[00101] In some configurations, the gases inlet of the valve ma nifold is axia lly located at or towa rd an end of the valve manifold .

[00102] In some configurations, the gases inlet of the swivel connector is rotatable through up to about 190 degrees about the longitudina l axis of the valve manifold, or throug h up to about 180 degrees a bout the longitudinal axis of the valve manifold, or through up to about 160 degrees about the longitudina l axis of the valve manifold, or through up to about 120 degrees about the longitudinal axis of the valve manifold, or through up to about 90 degrees about the longitudina l axis of the valve manifold, or through up to about 60 degrees about the longitudina l axis of the valve manifold, or through up to about 45 degrees about the longitudina l axis of the valve manifold.

[00103] In some config urations, the valve manifold gases inlet extends substantially transversely relative to a long itud ina l axis of the va lve ma nifold, and is fluidly connectable to a gas supply line, and wherein the va lve and valve manifold are rotatable relative to the valve carrier about the longitudina l axis of the valve manifold .

[00104] In some config urations, the valve manifold gases inlet extends in a substantially perpendicular direction relative to the longitudinal axis of the valve manifold .

[00105] In some config urations, the valve and va lve ma nifold are rotatable relative to the va lve carrier through up to about 190 degrees about the long itudinal

axis of the valve manifold, or throug h up to about 180 degrees about the longitudinal axis of the valve manifold, or through up to about 160 degrees about the longitud ina l axis of the valve manifold, or throug h up to about 120 degrees about the long itudina l axis of the valve manifold, or throug h up to about 90 degrees about the long itudina l axis of the valve manifold, or throug h up to about 60 degrees about the longitudina l axis of the valve manifold, or through up to about 45 degrees about the longitudina l axis of the valve manifold .

[00106] In some config urations, the valve module is arra nged to d irectly couple with a filter module to provide a gas flow path from the valve module to the filter mod ule.

[00107] In some configurations, the va lve module is removably engageable with a housing of the apparatus for delivering a flow of gas, such that the va lve module is substantially received within the housing a nd is accessible from a n exterior of the housing .

[00108] Additiona lly, in accorda nce with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a n apparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the apparatus comprising : a housing with a gases outlet for delivering a flow of gas to a patient, the housing defining a recess; and a filter module as described aboce engaged with the recess.

[00109] In some configurations, the apparatus further comprises a valve module as described above.

[00110] In some configurations, the valve module is directly coupled with the filter to provide a gas flow path from the valve module to the filter.

[00111] Additiona lly, in accorda nce with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the apparatus comprising : a housing defining a recess; and a valve module as described above removably received in the recess of the housing.

[00112] In some config urations, the valve module is retained in the recess of the housing by fasteners, a snap fit, a releasable snap fit, or the like.

[00113] In some config urations, the valve module is as described above, wherein the gases inlet that is fluidly connectable to the gas supply line is movable between a substantially horizontal position a nd a substantially vertical position, relative to the housing .

[00114] Additiona lly, in accorda nce with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a n apparatus for delivering a flow of gas is disclosed, the apparatus comprising : a housing with a gases outlet for delivering a flow of gas to a patient; a nd a connector comprising a gases inlet for receipt of a flow of gas from a gas supply line, wherein the gases inlet is fluidly connectable to a gas supply line to receive gas from the gas supply line, wherein the gases inlet of the connector is arranged to move relative to the housing .

[00115] In some configurations, the gases inlet of the connector is arranged to rotate relative to the housing .

[00116] In some config urations, the gases inlet of the connector is rotatable through up to about 190 degrees relative to the housing, or through up to about 180 degrees relative to the housing, or through up to about 160 degrees relative to the housing, or through up to about 120 degrees relative to the housing, or through up to about 90 degrees relative to the housing, or through up to about 60 degrees relative to the housing, or through up to about 45 degrees relative to the housing .

[00117] In some configurations, the gases inlet extends substantia lly transversely relative to an axis of rotation of the gases inlet.

[00118] In some configurations, the gases inlet extends substantia lly perpendicularly relative to the axis of rotation of the gases inlet.

[00119] In some configurations, the gases inlet extends substantia lly perpendicular to a sidewall of the housing .

[00120] In some config urations, the axis of rotation is a first axis of rotation of the gases inlet of the connector, and wherein the gases inlet of the connector is additionally arra nged to rotate about a second axis that is transverse to the first axis of rotation.

[00121] In some configurations, the gases inlet of the connector is arranged to rotate in substantially any direction relative to the valve manifold via a ball and socket arra ngement.

[00122] In some configurations, the gases inlet of the connector is arranged to translate relative to the housing .

[00123] In some configurations, the apparatus is arranged to simultaneously receive gas from the gases inlet and ambient air.

[00124] In some configurations, the apparatus is configured such that the gas from the gases inlet a nd the ambient a ir are dynamically entrained/mixed in the apparatus prior to being delivered to the gases outlet.

[00125] In some configurations, the apparatus comprises a valve mod ule, wherein the connector is part of the valve module.

[00126] In some configurations, the va lve module is arra nged to control a flow of gas from gases inlet into the apparatus.

[00127] In some configurations, the connector is a rranged to receive a gas supply line via a gas supply line connection .

[00128] In some configurations, the gas supply line connection is moveable between a substantially horizontal position a nd a substantially vertical position, relative to the housing .

[00129] Additiona lly, in accorda nce with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a combination is disclosed, the combination comprising : a valve module, wherein the valve mod ule comprises a flow control valve, wherein the valve is arranged to control a flow of gas, and wherein the valve module is removably engageable with a housing of an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas; and a filter module, wherein the filter module is removably engageable with the housing of an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas, such that the filter module is accessible from an exterior of the housing, and wherein the filter module is arra nged to receive gases from the valve module.

[00130] In some config urations, the valve module is arra nged to d irectly couple with the filter module to provide a gas flow path from the valve module to the filter module.

[00131] In some configurations, the valve module comprises the valve and a valve manifold to receive gas from the valve, wherein the valve manifold has a valve manifold gases outlet that is arra nged to deliver the gas from the flow control va lve to the filter module.

WE CLAIMS

1. A filter for a n apparatus for delivering a flow of gas, the filter comprising :

a filter body, wherein the filter body has a main compartment and a sub-compartment at least partly within the main compartment, wherein the main compartment is in fluid communication with a main compa rtment gases inlet and the sub-compartment is in fluid communication with a sub-compartment gases inlet; and

a filter medium associated with both the ma in compartment and the sub-compartment, a nd that is arra nged to filter gases in, or exiting, the main compartment and the sub-compartment.

2. A filter according to claim 1, wherein the filter is a filter module that is removably and sealably engageable with a housing of an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas.

3. A filter according to claim 2, comprising seal(s) about an external periphery of the filter to sea lingly engage the filter in the housing of the apparatus.

4. A filter according to claim 3, wherein the seal(s) comprise(s) O-ring(s) or integrally formed 'wiper' seal(s) .

5. A filter according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the ma in

compartment is defined by at least one main compartment wall bounding a main compartment volume.

6. A filter according to claim 5, wherein the sub-compartment is defined by at least one sub-compartment wall bounding a sub-compartment volume at least partly within the main compartment volume.

7. A filter according to a ny one of claims 1 to 6, comprising a second sub-compartment at least partly within the main compartment, wherein the second sub-compartment is arranged to receive gas from a second sub-compartment gases inlet.

8. A filter according to any one of cla ims 1 to 7, wherein the filter med ium comprises substantia lly a same material as the filter body.

9. A filter according to claim 8, wherein the filter body comprises polypropylene material or other suitable polymeric material, and wherein the filter medium comprises spun polypropylene, other suitable polymeric or synthetic material(s), and/or wool fibres.

10. A filter according to any one of claims 6 to 9 when dependent on claim 1 or 2, wherein the filter medium is ultrasonically welded to the at least one ma in compartment wall and the at least one sub-compartment wall.

11. A filter according to any one of claims 1 to 10, comprising a filter top panel that is attached or attachable to the filter body.

12. A filter according to claim 11, wherein the filter top pa nel is attachable to the filter body by way of a snap fit.

13. A filter according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the filter top panel is arranged to be substantially flush with a housing of the apparatus for delivering a flow of gas, when the filter is engaged with the housing.

14. A filter according to any one of claims 1 to 13, comprising a second sub-compartment at least partly within the main compartment, wherein the second sub-compartment is arranged to receive gas from a second sub-compartment gases inlet, and wherein a duct is provided in fluid communication with the second sub-compartment.

15. A filter according to claim 14, wherein the duct is integra lly formed with the filter body or is separately formed from the filter body.

16. A filter for an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas, the filter comprising :

a filter body, wherein the filter body has a main compartment that is in fluid communication with a main compartment gases inlet a nd a main compartment gases outlet, wherein the ma in compartment gases outlet is substantially pla nar and is spanned by a filter med ium, and wherein the ma in compartment gases inlet and main compartment gases outlet are arranged such that a gas flow direction through the inlet is offset from a gas flow d irection through the outlet.

17. A filter according to claim 16, wherein the gas flow direction through the main compa rtment gases inlet is substantially perpendicula r to the gas flow direction through the main compa rtment gases outlet.

18. A filter according to claim 16 or 17, wherein the main compartment is substantially recta ngular in profile.

19. A filter according to any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein at least a portion of the main compartment tapers inwardly such that a portion of the main

compartment spaced further from the main compartment gases inlet has a smaller dimension than a portion of the main compartment adjacent the ma in compartment gases inlet.

20. A filter according to any one of claims 16 to 19, wherein at least a portion of the ma in compartment tapers outwardly such that a portion of the main compartment spaced further from the main compartment gases inlet has a larger dimension than a portion of the main compartment adjacent the ma in compartment gases inlet.

21. A filter according to any one of cla ims 16 to 20, wherein the filter body comprises a sub-compartment at least partly within the ma in compartment and that is in fluid communication with a sub-compartment gases inlet.

22. A filter according to claim 21, wherein the sub-compartment comprises a sub-compa rtment gases outlet, and wherein the filter medium spans the sub-compartment gases outlet.

23. A filter according to claim 16, wherein the gas flow direction through the sub- compartment gases inlet is substantia lly perpendicular to the gas flow direction through the sub- compartment gases outlet.

24. A filter according to any one of claims 21 to 23, wherein at least a portion of the sub-compartment tapers inwardly.

25. A filter according to any one of claims 21 to 24, comprising a second sub-compartment at least partly within the main compartment, wherein the second sub-compartment is arranged to receive gas from a second sub-compartment gases inlet.

26. A filter according to claim 25, wherein the second sub-compartment comprises a second sub-compartment gases outlet, and wherein the filter medium spans the second sub-compartment gases outlet.

27. A filter according to claim 25, wherein the gas flow direction through the second sub- compa rtment gases inlet is substantially perpendicula r to the gas flow direction through the second sub- compartment gases outlet.

28. A filter according to any one of claims 25 to 27, wherein at least a portion of the second sub-compartment tapers inwa rd ly such that a portion of the second sub-compa rtment spaced further from the second sub-compartment gases inlet has a smaller dimension than a portion of the main compartment adjacent the second sub- compartment gases inlet.

29. An apparatus for delivering a flow of gas, the filter comprising :

a filter body, the filter body having a compartment, a compartment filter medium associated with the compartment that is arra nged to filter gases in, or exiting, the compartment;

an outlet filter medium associated with a gases outlet, to prevent, or at least substantially inhibit particulates from inadvertently entering the filter from the outlet;

wherein one of the filter compartment medium and the outlet filter medium are downstream of the other of the filter compartment medium and the outlet filter medium .

30. An apparatus for delivering a flow of gas, comprising :

a housing with a gases outlet for delivering a flow of gas to a patient; and

a first gases inlet, a second gases inlet, a nd a n ambient air inlet.

31. An apparatus accord ing to claim 30, comprising a filter to filter gases that have been received from the first gases inlet, the second gases inlet, and the ambient air inlet.

32. An apparatus accord ing to claim 31, comprising a blower a rranged to receive gases from the filter and to deliver the gases to a gases outlet.

33. An apparatus accord ing to claim 31 or 32, comprising a flow control valve arranged to receive gas from the first gases inlet and to deliver the gas to the filter.

34. An apparatus according to claim 33, comprising a va lve module that is removably engageable with the housing, wherein the va lve module comprises the valve and a va lve ma nifold to receive gas from the valve, wherein the valve manifold has a va lve manifold gases outlet that is a rranged to deliver the gas from the flow control va lve to the filter.

35. An apparatus accord ing to claim 34, wherein the va lve module comprises a valve carrier that substantially contains a nd supports the va lve and the va lve manifold .

36. An apparatus accord ing to claim 35, wherein the ambient a ir inlet is provided in the valve carrier.

37. An apparatus accord ing to any one of claims 34 to 36, wherein the va lve module is arranged to directly couple with the filter to provide a gas flow path from the valve module to the filter.

38. An apparatus accord ing to any one of claims 34 to 37, wherein the first gases inlet is arranged to move relative to the housing .

39. An apparatus accord ing to any one of claims 31 to 38, wherein the filter is removably engageable with the housing.

40. An apparatus accord ing to any one of claims 30 to 39, wherein the apparatus is a nasal high flow therapy apparatus.

41. A valve module for an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas, the valve module comprising :

a flow control valve, wherein the valve is arranged to control a flow of gas,

an ambient air flow path passing through the valve module.

42. A valve module according to cla im 41, wherein the ambient air flow path has an ambient air outlet for delivering ambient air to other components of the apparatus for delivering a flow of gas.

43. A valve module according to claim 42, wherein the ambient a ir outlet is adapted to deliver ambient air to a filter module.

44. A valve mod ule according to cla im 42 or 43, wherein the ambient air flow path is adapted to deliver ambient air such that it flows past one or more temperature sensors of the apparatus for delivering a flow of gas.

45. A valve module according to any one of claims 41 to 44, wherein the ambient air flow path passes near or adjacent to the valve.

46. A valve module according to any one of claims 41 to 45, comprising a valve manifold with a valve manifold gases inlet and a valve manifold gases outlet.

47. A valve module according to claim 46, wherein the valve is sealingly engaged with the va lve manifold .

48. A valve module according to claim 46 or 47, wherein the va lve is arra nged to control a flow of gas from the valve manifold gases inlet to the valve manifold gases outlet.

49. A valve module according to any one of claims 46 to 48, wherein the valve manifold has a shape that is complementary to the shape of the va lve.

50. A valve mod ule according to cla im 49, wherein the valve manifold has a substantially cylindrical body, and wherein the valve has a substantially cylind rical body.

51. A valve module according to any one of claims 46 to 50, wherein the valve manifold gases outlet is radially located on the valve manifold.

52. A valve module according to cla im 51, wherein the valve manifold valve manifold comprises a plurality of gases outlets that are radia lly located about the valve manifold.

53. A valve module according to any one of claims 46 to 52, comprising a valve carrier that substantially conta ins and supports the va lve a nd the va lve manifold.

54. A valve module according to cla im 53, wherein the valve carrier comprises supporting structure to support the valve and valve ma nifold .

55. A valve module according to cla im 53 or 54, wherein the va lve carrier comprises a speaker housing a nd a n audio speaker located in the speaker housing .

56. A valve mod ule according to any one of claims 53to 55, comprising one or more sensors on or in the va lve carrier.

57. A valve mod ule according to any one of claims 53to 56, wherein the va lve carrier comprises a first va lve carrier part and a second valve carrier part, wherein the valve and valve manifold are secured in place at least partly between the first valve carrier part a nd the second valve ca rrier part.

58. A va lve module accord ing to any one of claims 53to 57, wherein the valve carrier comprises one or more gua rds.

59. A valve mod ule according to any one of claims 41 to 58, comprising an electrical connector to provide an electrical connection between the valve module and one or more of the other components of the apparatus for delivering a flow of gas.

60. A valve module according to claim 59, wherein the electrical connector comprises a flexible printed circuit board .

61. A valve module according to any one of claims 53 to 60, wherein the valve carrier comprises flow guiding structure, wherein the flow guiding structure is arranged to direct gas flow from the valve ma nifold gases outlet(s) toward a filter when the valve module is removably engaged with the housing .

62. A valve mod ule according to any one of claims 46 to 61, comprising a connector with a gases inlet, wherein the gases inlet of the connector is fluidly connectable to a gas supply line, and wherein the connector is a rranged to provide a fluid connection between the gas supply line a nd the gases inlet of the va lve manifold, and wherein the gases inlet is movable relative to the va lve manifold .

63. A valve module according to cla im 62, wherein the connector is a swivel connector, wherein the gases inlet is oriented substantia lly tra nsversely relative to a longitudinal axis of the va lve manifold, and wherein the gases inlet of the swivel connector is arranged to rotate about a longitudinal axis of the va lve manifold .

64. A valve module according to cla im 62, wherein the connector is a swivel connector, wherein the gases inlet is oriented substantia lly tra nsversely relative to a longitudinal axis of the va lve manifold, and wherein the gases inlet of the swivel connector is arranged to rotate in substantially any d irection relative to the va lve manifold via a ball and socket arra ngement.

65. A valve mod ule according to cla im 63 or 67, wherein the gases inlet of the swivel connector extends in a substantially perpend icula r direction relative to the longitudinal axis of the valve manifold .

66. A valve mod ule according to any one of claims 63 to 65, wherein the gases inlet of the valve manifold is axia lly located at or toward a n end of the valve manifold .

67. A valve module according to any one of claims 63 to 66, wherein the gases inlet of the swivel connector is rotatable throug h up to about 190 degrees about the longitudinal axis of the valve manifold, or through up to about 180 degrees about the longitudina l axis of the valve manifold, or through up to about 160 degrees about the longitudina l axis of the valve manifold, or throug h up to about 120 degrees about the longitudina l axis of the valve manifold, or through up to about 90 degrees about the longitudina l axis of the valve manifold, or through up to about 60 degrees about the longitudina l axis of the valve manifold, or through up to about 45 degrees about the longitudina l axis of the valve manifold .

68. A valve module according to any one of claims 53 to 61, wherein the valve manifold gases inlet extends substantially transversely relative to a longitudinal axis of the va lve manifold, a nd is fluidly connectable to a gas supply line, and wherein the valve a nd valve manifold a re rotatable relative to the valve carrier about the longitudina l axis of the valve manifold .

69. A valve module according to cla im 68, wherein the valve manifold gases inlet extends in a substantially perpendicular d irection relative to the longitudina l axis of the valve manifold .

70. A valve module according to claim 68 or 69, wherein the va lve and va lve manifold are rotatable relative to the valve carrier through up to about 190 degrees about the longitudina l axis of the valve manifold, or through up to about 180 degrees about the longitudina l axis of the valve manifold, or through up to about 160 degrees about the longitudina l axis of the valve manifold, or throug h up to about 120 deg rees about the long itud inal axis of the valve manifold, or through up to about 90 degrees about the longitudinal axis of the va lve manifold, or through up to about 60 degrees about the longitudinal axis of the va lve manifold, or through up to about 45 degrees about the longitudinal axis of the va lve manifold .

71. A valve module according to any one of claims 41 to 70, wherein the valve module is arra nged to directly couple with a filter module to provide a gas flow path from the valve mod ule to the filter module.

72. An apparatus for delivering a flow of gas, comprising :

a housing with a gases outlet for delivering a flow of gas to a patient, the housing defining a recess; and

a filter module accord ing to any one of cla ims 1 to 28 engaged with the recess.

73. An apparatus according to claim 72, further comprising a valve mod ule according to any one of claims 41 to 71.

74. An apparatus accord ing to claim 73, wherein the va lve module is directly coupled with the filter to provide a gas flow path from the valve module to the filter.

75. An apparatus for delivering a flow of gas, comprising :

a housing defining a recess;

and a va lve module accord ing to any one of claims 41 to 71 removably received in the recess of the housing .

76. An apparatus accord ing to claim 75, wherein the va lve module is retained in the recess of the housing by fasteners, a snap fit, a releasable snap fit, or the like.

77. An apparatus accord ing to claim 75 or 76, wherein the valve mod ule is as claimed in any one of claims 67 to 70, wherein the gases inlet that is fluidly connectable to the gas supply line is movable between a substantially horizonta l position a nd a substantially vertical position, relative to the housing .

78. An apparatus for delivering a flow of gas comprising :

a housing with a gases outlet for delivering a flow of gas to a patient; and

a connector comprising a gases inlet for receipt of a flow of gas from a gas supply line, wherein the gases inlet is fluidly connectable to a gas supply line to receive gas from the gas supply line, wherein the gases inlet of the connector is arranged to move relative to the housing .

79. An apparatus accord ing to claim 78, wherein the gases inlet of the connector is arranged to rotate relative to the housing .

80. An apparatus accord ing to claim 79, wherein the gases inlet of the connector is rotatable through up to about 190 degrees relative to the housing, or through up to about 180 degrees relative to the housing, or through up to about 160 degrees relative to the housing, or through up to about 120 degrees relative to the housing, or through up to about 90 degrees relative to the housing, or through up to about 60 degrees relative to the housing, or through up to about 45 degrees relative to the housing.

81. An apparatus accord ing to claim 79 or 80, wherein the gases inlet extends substantially transversely relative to an axis of rotation of the gases inlet.

82. An apparatus accord ing to claim 81, wherein the gases inlet extends substantially perpendicularly relative to the axis of rotation of the gases inlet.

83. An apparatus accord ing to claim 81, wherein the gases inlet extends substantially perpendicular to a sidewall of the housing .

84. An apparatus accord ing to claim 81 or 82, wherein the axis of rotation is a first axis of rotation of the gases inlet of the connector, and wherein the gases inlet of the connector is additiona lly arranged to rotate about a second axis that is transverse to the first axis of rotation.

85. An apparatus accord ing to any one of claims 78 to 84, wherein the gases inlet of the connector is arranged to rotate in substantially a ny direction relative to the va lve ma nifold via a ball a nd socket arrangement.

86. An apparatus accord ing to any one of claims 78 to 85, wherein the gases inlet of the connector is arranged to translate relative to the housing.

87. An apparatus accord ing to any one of claims 78 to 86, wherein the apparatus is arranged to simultaneously receive gas from the gases inlet a nd ambient air.

88. An apparatus accord ing to claim 87, wherein the apparatus is configured such that the gas from the gases inlet and the a mbient air are dynamically entrained/mixed in the apparatus prior to being delivered to the gases outlet.

89. An apparatus accord ing to any one of claims 78 to 88, comprising a valve module, wherein the connector is part of the va lve module.

90. An apparatus according to claim 89, wherein the va lve module is arra nged to control a flow of gas from gases inlet into the apparatus.

91. An apparatus accord ing to any one of claims 78 to 90, wherein the connector is arranged to receive a gas supply line via a gas supply line connection.

92. An apparatus accord ing to claim 91, wherein the gas supply line connection is moveable between a substantially horizonta l position and a substantially vertical position, relative to the housing.

93. The combination of:

a va lve module, wherein the va lve module comprises a flow control valve, wherein the valve is arranged to control a flow of gas, a nd wherein the valve module is removably engageable with a housing of an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas, ; and

a filter mod ule, wherein the filter mod ule is removably engageable with the housing of an apparatus for delivering a flow of gas, such that the filter module is accessible from an exterior of the housing, and wherein the filter module is arranged to receive gases from the valve mod ule.

94. The combination of claim 93, wherein the valve module is arranged to directly couple with the filter mod ule to provide a gas flow path from the valve module to the filter mod ule.

95. The combination of claim 93 or 94, wherein the valve module comprises the valve and a va lve ma nifold to receive gas from the valve, wherein the valve manifold has a va lve manifold gases outlet that is a rranged to deliver the gas from the flow control va lve to the filter module.

96. The combination according to claim 95, wherein the va lve module comprises a valve carrier that substantially contains and supports the valve and the valve manifold .

97. The combination according to claim 96, wherein the va lve carrier comprises an ambient air inlet.

98. The combination according to any one of claims 93 to 97, wherein the valve module comprise a connector with a gases inlet for delivering gases to the valve.

99. The combination according to any one of claims 93 to 98, wherein the filter module comprises a filter body, wherein the filter body has a main compartment and at least one sub-compartment at least partly within the ma in compartment, wherein the ma in compartment a nd the at least one sub-compartment are arranged to receive gases from respective gases inlets, and are arranged to deliver gases through respective gases outlets.

100. The combination according to claim 99, wherein the filter module comprises a filter medium associated with the main compa rtment and the sub-compartment(s), wherein the filter medium is arranged to filter gases in, or exiting, the ma in compartment and the sub-compartment(s).

101. The combination according to claim 100, wherein the filter medium spans the ma in compartment gases outlet and the first sub-compa rtment gases outlet(s).

102. The combination according to any one of claims 93 to 101, wherein the valve module is substantially received within the housing and is accessible from an exterior of the housing .

103. An apparatus for delivering a flow of gas, comprising :

a housing with a gases outlet for delivering a flow of gas to a patient, a gases inlet, and a sea led gases path between the gases inlet and the gases outlet, the sealed gases path comprising a filter to filter gases that have been received from the first gases inlet, the filter comprising a filter body, a gases inlet, a gases outlet, and a filter medium that is arranged to filter gases in, or exiting, the filter body.

104. A filter according to claim 103, wherein the filter is a filter module that is removably and sea lably engageable with the housing .

105. The apparatus of claim 103, wherein the filter module is removable from the housing such that the sealed path is unsealed when the filter module is removed .

106. An apparatus for delivering a flow of gas, comprising :

a va lve module, wherein the va lve module comprises a flow control valve, wherein the valve is arranged to control a flow of gas; a nd

a filter module arra nged to receive gases from the va lve module.

107. The apparatus of cla im 106, wherein the valve module is arranged to directly couple with the filter mod ule to provide a gas flow path from the valve module to the filter mod ule.

108. The apparatus of cla im 106or 107, wherein the valve mod ule comprises the valve and a va lve ma nifold to receive gas from the valve, wherein the valve manifold has a va lve manifold gases outlet that is a rranged to deliver the gas from the flow control va lve to the filter module.

109. The apparatus accord ing to cla im 108, wherein the valve module comprises a valve carrier that substantially contains and supports the valve and the valve manifold .

110. An apparatus accord ing to claim 109, wherein the valve carrier comprises an ambient air inlet.

111. An apparatus accord ing to any one of claims 106 to 110, wherein the valve module comprise a connector with a gases inlet for delivering gases to the valve.

112. An apparatus accord ing to any one of claims 106 to 111, wherein the filter module comprises a filter body, wherein the filter body has a main compartment and at least one sub-compartment at least partly within the ma in compartment, wherein the ma in compartment a nd the at least one sub-compartment are arranged to receive gases from respective gases inlets, and are arranged to deliver gases through respective gases outlets.

113. An apparatus accord ing to claim 112, wherein the filter module comprises a filter medium associated with the main compartment a nd the sub-compartment(s), wherein the filter medium is arranged to filter gases in, or exiting, the main compartment and the sub-compartment(s) .

114. An apparatus accord ing to claim 113, wherein the filter medium spans the main compa rtment gases outlet and the first sub-compartment gases outlet(s).