Patent ID: 7066178
Filing Date: 2006-06-27
Classification: A61M

Abstract:
1. A connector comprising: a mask end having a longitudinal axis for connecting in fluid communication with an interior of a respiratory mask; a supply conduit end having a longitudinal axis and being disposed at an angle to the mask end for connecting in fluid communication with an outlet of a breathable gas supply conduit; and a gas washout vent passage having an inlet adjacent to, or forming part of, the mask end in fluid communication with the interior of the respiratory mask and an outlet in fluid communication with the atmosphere, the outlet including an interior surface that forms a smooth prolongation with an adjacent exterior surface of the connector, wherein the outlet is disposed on a side of the connector remote from the mask end, is generally semi-circular when viewed in cross-section and is adapted to direct washout gas in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the mask end and substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the supply conduit end towards the supply conduit; a body portion including the interior surface and an exterior surface; and a cap portion including an interior surface spaced apart from the interior surface of the body portion, the interior surface of the body portion and the interior surface of the cap portion defining the vent passage therebetween.