Patent Description:
Respiratory disorders and diseases such as sleep disordered breathing (SDB) conditions such as Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) etc. are known and various therapies for treating patients suffering of such disorders or diseases have been developed. Therapies for treating such disorders and diseases include, invasive and non-invasive ventilation, positive airway pressure therapy, Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP), Bi-Level therapy and treatment.

For example, Nasal Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) was invented by Sullivan (see <CIT>). An apparatus for treating, e.g., OSA typically comprises a blower that provides a supply of air or breathable gas to a patient interface, such as a mask, via an air delivery conduit.

Such therapy is generally applied for many hours and even up to <NUM> hours per day while the night time is a preferred application period. Thus, patients typically sleep while wearing the device. It is therefore desirable to have a system which is quiet and comfortable. In addition, it is desirable to have a system which is effective and reliable and which allows a fast reaction on changing patient parameters. Moreover, it is desirable to provide a system which is easy to manufacture, assemble and maintain. Also, it is desirable to provide a system which is more flexible as regards its modes and way of use. In order to improve the patients' mobility it is furthermore desirable to provide a flexible and mobile breathing device.

Patient ventilation or breathing devices for application of such therapies are known in the art. Although many improvements have been made in the recent years known systems still suffer from slow response times, high weight and large dimensions, a complex structure, as well as from high power consumption.

Such devices, i. , generally comprise blowers or air pumps for delivering air to the patient at a (or differing) required pressure(s). Blowers are typically classified as centrifugal, axial or mixed flow. Generally, blowers comprise two main parts: a rotating part, namely an impeller and shaft; and a stationary part that defines a fluid flow path, typically a chamber such as a volute. Rotation of the impeller imparts kinetic energy to the air. The stationary part redirects the air expelled from the impeller into an enclosed outlet passage. During this redirection, resistance is encountered to flow because of the pressure generated by downstream resistance or a downstream pressure source. As the flow is slowed against this resistance, a portion of the kinetic energy is converted to potential energy in the form of pressure.

Generally, the faster the impeller is rotated, the higher the pressure that will be developed. A less effective blower generally will have to rotate its impeller faster to generate the same pressure as a more effective blower. Generally, running a given blower slower makes it quieter and prolongs its life time. Needless to say, there are further influences on a blowers effectiveness such as, e.g., size and weight distribution. Hence, it is generally desirable to make blowers more effective at generating a supply of air at positive pressure. In addition, it is a general desire to make blowers more quiet. Moreover, there is the need of providing a system, particularly a blower which has good acceleration properties and allows good response characteristics, particularly for providing alternating pressures, and simultaneously achieves a high flow and pressure output.

With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, derived from prior art discussion in <CIT>, three directions of a blower are defined, i.e., radial R, tangential T and axial A. Prior art centrifugal blower <NUM> includes an outlet <NUM>, an inlet <NUM>, an electric motor <NUM>, an impeller <NUM> and a shaft <NUM>. Arrows <NUM> indicate the general direction of airflow. Air enters the blower at the inlet <NUM> and is accelerated by the rotating impeller. The rotation imparted by the impeller generally directs the airflow in a tangential direction T. The volute then constrains the airflow to spiral the volute. The airflow then exits the blower in a generally tangential direction T via the outlet <NUM>.

In some blowers, such as axially developed volute blowers, the volute geometry directs the tangential spiraling airflow in a slight axial direction A prior to exiting the blower in a generally tangential direction T.

The performance of a blower is often described using fan curves, which show the flow rate of air versus outlet pressure of air. Many factors affect the fan curve including impeller diameter and the number and shape of the impeller blades. The design process is a complex balance between competing priorities such as desired pressure, flow rate, size, reliability, manufacturability and noise. While many combinations of size, shape and configuration of components may produce a flow of pressurized air, such a result may be far from optimal, or be impractical.

A disadvantage of prior art blowers is they tend to suffer from noise emission. It has been observed that beside the acoustic noise there is also noise on the flow signal which may lead to difficulties or even errors in proper detection of the flow signal and thus to disadvantageous settings of the breathing device.

Although many attempts have been made in the art in order to improve blowers, there remains the need for an improved, simple, reliable, safe, effective and efficient blower which overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art.

In addition and in combination with the general design of the blower as referred to above, the design of the impeller has huge impact on the overall functionality, noise and effectiveness of the blower. Thus, there is the need for an improved, simple, reliable, safe, quiet, effective and efficient impeller which overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art.

In addition and in combination with the general design of the blower and/or the impeller as referred to above, the design and arrangement of the fluid flow path, along which the breathable gas is directed, and its components in a ventilation or breathing device and of the components of the ventilation or breathing device has huge impact on the overall functionality, noise and effectiveness of the ventilation or breathing device. This particularly applies for devices or therapies where additional gases, such as oxygen, are to be added to the flow of breathing gas. In this context, it is an additional aim to provide a safe and reliable provision of oxygen in order to reduce the risk of fire should sparking occur within the apparatus. Thus, there is the need for the provision of an improved, simple, safe, reliable, effective and efficient fluid flow path and its components.

For example, <CIT> relates to a breathing assistance apparatus including a manifold that is provided with or retrofittable to gas supply and humidifying devices. The manifold allows gases from an oxygen concentrator to be combined with the flow through a gases supply and humidifying device, most usually air. The combined output of oxygen and other breathing gases (air) is then humidified. With this breathing assistance apparatus and manifold oxygen is added to the input air stream of a gases supply via an oxygen inlet port extending from the side of the manifold and its ambient air inlet aperture.

<CIT> discusses an oxygen mixing arrangement for or in a pressure support ventilator, in which a modular oxygen-providing assembly is selectively insertable into a greater respiration apparatus. A valving arrangement and metering for supplying the oxygen is used which is added downstream from a valving arrangement used for venting patient exhaust flow and for controlling system pressure by venting excess gas flow to the ambient atmosphere.

These known devices still do not allow a safe, easy and reliable mixing of e.g. oxygen with the breathing gas flow.

<CIT> relates to a gas supply unit for supplying pressurised gas to a patient, wherein it comprises: a pneumatic housing for supplying a flow of gas to the patient; a control housing (<NUM>) for controlling the flow of gas to be supplied to the patient; and a power supply housing (<NUM>) for supplying power to the unit (<NUM>). The three housings are distinct from one another and are designed for being removably coupled together to form a single unit.

<CIT> relates to a multiple stage variable speed blower for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) ventilation of patients including two impellers in the gas flow path that cooperatively pressurize gas to desired pressure and flow characteristics.

The known concepts and designs of fluid flow paths and breathing devices still need further improvement, particularly as regards ease of manufacture, maintenance, functionality and/or safety.

In summary, there is the need for an improved patient ventilation or breathing device and its components which overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art. In particular, there is the need for a reliable, safe, easy to manufacture, quiet, efficient and effective device and its components which is flexible and easy to handle and to maintain.

It is an object underlying the present invention to provide an improved patient ventilation or breathing device as well as improved components for a patient ventilation or breathing device, particularly with regard to the disadvantages of the prior art and the needs referred to above.

These and further objects, as are apparent from the above discussions of the prior art and its drawbacks as well as from the below discussion of the invention and its advantages, are fulfilled by the combination of features of the independent claim <NUM>, while the dependent claims refer to preferred embodiments of the present invention.

The invention relates to a patient ventilation or breathing device and components therefore for use in all forms of respiratory apparatus ventilation systems including invasive and non-invasive ventilation, positive airway pressure therapy, Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP), and particularly Bi-Level therapy and treatment for sleep disordered breathing (SDB) conditions such as Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), and for various other respiratory disorders and diseases. The invention relates to a blower and to a blade for use with and/or in combination with such blower. The invention relates to an impeller, particularly for use with blowers as referred to above and particularly for use with a blower according to the present invention.

The invention is directed to a blower or air pump for quietly and effectively providing a supply of air at positive pressure. Such blower is preferably a blower for a patient ventilation or breathing device, particularly for use in treatment of respiratory diseases or disorders as discussed in the introductory portion of the present invention as well as for use with the further aspects of the present invention. Such blower comprises a stationary part which may be a housing and, more particularly, may take the form of a volute. The blower further comprises a rotating portion to be coupled to a drive means, preferably an electric motor.

The blower furthermore comprises an air inlet and an air outlet. The air inlet may be axially arranged, wherein the air outlet may be tangentially arranged. The air outlet <NUM>. may be split into at least two channels, preferably two channels which may be parallel. Preferably, the air outlet is of substantially radial cross-sectional shape wherein the outlet may be split such that,. g, each of the two channels has a semi-circular cross-section. Alternatively, each of, e.g., four channels may have the cross section of a quadrant. The split of the air outlet is achieved by means of at least one blade dividing the outlet into the at least two, preferably parallel, channels. The blade, which forms part of the stationary portion, preferably extends parallel to the direction of the air flow through the outlet and/or to the longitudinal axis of the air outlet. The blade preferably extends in a plane defined by two axes, one being generally parallel and one being generally perpendicular to the axis of the volute. Preferably, the air inlet is defined as a cylinder or tube like inlet member extending from the interior of the blower.

Air enters the blower at the inlet and is accelerated by the rotating impeller. The rotation imparted by the impeller generally directs the air flow radially outwards in a tangential direction T. The volute then constrains the air flow to spiral the volute. The air flow then exits the blower in a generally tangential direction T via the split outlet.

Preferably, the outlet channel and the channels achieved by the split of said channel by means of the blade, respectively, include a turn of the flow path about preferably an angle between about <NUM>° to <NUM>° and preferably of about <NUM>°. Preferably, the turn is such that the turn of the flow path in the outlet channel is such that the air exits the outlet channel in a direction parallel to the axial direction, preferably parallel to the air inlet and preferably in the contrary direction to the air inlet. In other words, the air preferably enters the blower in one direction and exits the blower in the opposite direction.

In this embodiment, the blade preferably extends along the turn of the flow path in the outlet and preferably comprises two portions, each having a longitudinal axis, wherein these longitudinal axes enclose an angle lying in the plane of the blade and corresponding to the angle of the turn of the blower outlet. Preferably, said angle lies in the range of about <NUM>° to <NUM>° and preferably is about <NUM>°.

Preferably, the blade is formed integral with the blower housing or at least one part thereof such as with the volute or one part of its housing, e.g., by means of plastic injection moulding. Preferably, the material of the blower is a biocompatible plastic of low flammability. However, it will be appreciated that other ways of manufacture and other materials may be applied.

The blower according to the present invention is advantageous and particularly has reduced noise emission. This has been proven by comparative tests between identical blowers under identical operating conditions with and without a blade according to the present invention. At the same time, the flow and pressure of the air flow pumped by the blower is not negatively impaired by the present invention. Preferred forms and features of the blower or blade, as referred to above relate to additional improvements vis-à-vis blowers without a blade. The solution according to the present invention is simple, reliable, and easy to manufacture.

The impeller comprises a plurality of vanes extending from a disk-like shroud. The shroud, located downwardly or away from the air inlet in the direction of air flow, preferably has a generally disk-like shape.

The shroud has a wavy or saw tooth shaped outer circumference in an axial or bottom view wherein the outer diameter of the shroud varies between a maximum outer diameter and a minimum outer diameter. The maximum outer diameter is reached in a vicinity of the outer tips of the vanes while the minimum outer diameter is reached between two adjacent vanes, preferably between each pair of adjacent vanes.

The vanes extend, preferably vertically, from the shroud and are preferably formed integrally with the shroud. The impeller has an axis of rotation and is preferably of general rotational symmetry with regard to said axis.

The vanes are radially arranged and extend from an inner diameter to an outer diameter. The vanes have a substantially uniform height from their starting point at their inner diameter close to the impeller's axis of rotation until a first intermediate diameter; and a decreasing height from said first intermediate diameter towards their end at an outer diameter, the first intermediate diameter lying between the inner and outer diameters. The blades are substantially straight from their starting point at their inner diameter close to the impeller's axis of rotation until a second intermediate diameter; and are curved from said second intermediate diameter towards their end at the outer diameter, the second intermediate diameter lying between the inner and outer diameters. Preferably, the second intermediate diameter preferably lies between the first intermediate diameter and the outer diameter. Alternatively, the second intermediate diameter preferably lies between the inner diameter and the first intermediate diameter or equals the first intermediate diameter. The curvature of the vanes is positive, i.e. towards the direction of rotation.

The geometry of the increase in height is preferably aligned with the geometry of the housing or stationary part and preferably corresponds thereto.

The impeller according to the present invention preferably has an inertia or moment of inertia of below about <NUM>,<NUM> cm<NUM> and preferably of below about <NUM>,<NUM> cm<NUM>.

Preferably the moment of inertia lies in a range between about <NUM>,<NUM> and <NUM>,<NUM> cm<NUM> and preferably between about <NUM>,<NUM> and <NUM>,<NUM> cm<NUM> and preferably is about <NUM>,<NUM> cm<NUM>.

The impeller according to the present invention is preferably made of plastic, preferably O<NUM> resistant plastic and/or preferably unfilled plastic material.

The impeller according to the present invention is advantageous and particularly has reduced noise emission, a large pressure delivery for a given motor speed, allows supply of a given pressure at a relatively low motor speed, and has a fast response time. Furthermore, the impeller according to the present invention preferably provides a rigid impeller with comparatively low inertia. The impeller according to the present invention is particularly suitable for high-speed rotation, e.g. of about <NUM> r/min. The impeller is particularly quiet, high efficient, allows fast motor acceleration to respond to the patient needs and exhibits very low stress at high speed. This particularly enables it to cycle between high and low speeds for ventilation and VPAP / BiPAP with very low risk of fatigue failure due to low alternating stress level.

The respiration or ventilation device according to the present invention is preferably of an advantageous modular structure and comprises a housing module, preferably provided with operator input and display means. Additionally, there is provided an electric module, preferably comprising a skeleton carrier for carrying, i. , a control unit and further electronics required, and for providing structural support as well as for allowing defined positioning of the modules and parts of the ventilation device. The ventilation device further comprises an air path module comprising an air path housing, comprising an air path inlet and an air path outlet, in which a blower is located. Preferably, the air path is the air path according to the present disclosure, wherein the air path housing comprises two parts each of which is sealingly connected to one side of the gasket according to the present disclosure while the gasket and/or the air path housing carries a blower including a motor, preferably the blower according to the present invention.

Preferably, the air path module includes an inlet member, preferably the inlet member in accordance with the present disclosure and/or a patient connector.

The electric module is preferably further adapted to be connected to and support the housing of the ventilation device as well as to support and/or position the air path module. In addition, the skeleton carrier and/or the electric module is preferably adapted for and comprises means for allowing a proper alignment and positioning of the different parts and modules of the ventilation device such as the parts of the housing module and/or the air path element. The electric module preferably comprises the power supply, battery or accumulator pack, control unit and/or a display unit.

The blower and its motor is/are simply plugged or laid into the air path housing with out the need for any screws or additional fastening members. Rather, the necessary suspension elements are provided integrally with air path module and the housing module. All that needs to be provided are silicone cushions for dampening the blower and motor in the housing. In addition, the device is adapted such that the electric module is simply laid onto the air path element without the use of further screws or other additional fastening means.

Once the inlet member and/or a patient connector is connected to the air path element, such as by plugging one into the other, preferably via a plug-in connector and/or flow sensor connector, and the air path is laid into the lower part of the housing module, and the electric module is placed over it, the combined electric module, the air path module including the inlet member, which are connected to one another without the use of screws or additional separate fastening means, the upper part of the housing is placed over them. Then the, preferably two, parts of the housing module are screwed to one another, thereby simultaneously fixing and securing the position of the different modules (air path module, electric module and housing module).

This configuration particularly allows an easy and advantageous way of manufacturing of the ventilation device as well as of its assembly. A reduced number of parts can be provided which are individually manufactured, prepared and mounted. These modules can then be easily assembled to constitute the ventilation device according to the present disclosure. Preferably, only a reduced number of fastening means such as screws, needs to be applied since the modular design of the ventilation device allows advantageous simultaneous fastening of the different modules. The device of the present disclosure is therefore of particular advantage since it allows an easy and fast assembly as well as disassembly and thus an improved maintenance or repair. Individual components can be easily replaced. Particularly all components being in contact with air inhaled or exhaled by a patient can be easily replaced.

The modular ventilation device of the present disclosure is also of particular advantage from the point of cleanliness and/or security. In particular, the device according to the present disclosure allows a clear separation between air path, including eventual oxygen supply, and electronics and/or housing. No part of the device housing constitutes part of the flow path. Not part of the electric or electronics and thus no circuit board or electric part lies in the air path. Preferably, the only sensor to be provided in the air path is the flow sensor which is preferably located between inlet member and flow path housing. Thus, preferably no dust and/or lint is lead to the electronics together with the air flow. Preferably, the patient is not exposed to the danger of inhaling smoke of burning of electronic parts.

The ventilation device of the present invention is of particular advantage, as becomes clear from the overall discussion of advantages and benefits of the different aspects of the invention. In particular, there is provided an effective and efficient ventilation device which allows the provision of an optimized, fast therapy at reduced power consumption. Thus, the device can suitably be used with a battery pack - instead of being dependent on the generally power supply.

Other aspects, features, and advantages of this invention will become apparent from the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are a part of this disclosure and which illustrate, by way of example, principles of this invention.

The invention will further be discussed by exemplary reference to the preferred embodiments shown in the drawings. In the drawings,.

While <FIG> and <FIG> do not show a blower according to claim <NUM>, the air path, cable, inlet member, electric module, and air path module may be used in combination with the blower of claim <NUM> and/or in the respiratory apparatus of claim <NUM>.

<FIG> and <FIG> show a three-dimensional front, back and top view of a ventilation device according to the present invention. The ventilation device <NUM> comprises a housing <NUM> provided with various input means <NUM> such as turn buttons, push buttons, and the like as well as a display or window unit <NUM> for displaying information, such as settings etc., to the user. The ventilation device further comprises one or more air inlet openings, generally referred to as inlet <NUM>, and an air outlet <NUM>, preferably provided with means of for connecting further components of a breathing or ventilation system such a respiratory tube or hose for delivering pressurized air to a patient and/or a humidifier.

The ventilation means <NUM> furthermore comprises a filter, preferably provided by an inlet member, provided behind the air inlet <NUM> for filtering ambient air entering the air inlet <NUM> of the ventilation device <NUM> and then being directed though the filter. The ventilation means preferably comprises an oxygen inlet <NUM> as well as means for connecting a supply of oxygen and for allowing, e.g., additional oxygen to enter the ventilation device <NUM>. Such oxygen is, preferably in an inlet member and thus inside the ventilation device <NUM>, added to the incoming air sucked in via the inlet <NUM> and through the filter and preferably mixed therewith. In a preferred embodiment, the filter, and preferably also the inlet member, is an integral part of ventilation device <NUM>, preferably its air path.

Housing <NUM> of ventilation device <NUM> comprises, according to a preferred embodiment, an upper housing part 104a and the lower housing part 104b. The ventilation device <NUM> may further comprise additional ports or connection means <NUM> which allow connection of cables, such as power cables, USB cables, sensor cables and the like, i.e., constituting interfaces for connection of further devices for exchanging information and for providing power input. In addition, alternatively, a ventilation device <NUM> may comprise means for receiving a battery pack for providing the necessary power for mobile operation of the ventilation device.

Such device, as well as preferred individual components thereof, is discussed in the following, while it is understood that the individual components discussed below can equally be used alone or with similar or different devices.

<FIG> show various three-dimensional views of a preferred blower according to the present invention or of parts and components thereof. <FIG> shows an exploded view of the blower shown in <FIG>.

Blower <NUM> comprises a housing <NUM> having the general shape of a volute. Preferably, the housing comprises two parts 202a, 202b, which are connected, e.g., mechanically and/or by means of ultrasonic welding. The housing <NUM> constitutes the stationary portion of the blower <NUM>. The blower <NUM> further comprises a rotating portion comprising at least one impeller and a shaft to be driven by electric motor <NUM>. In an embodiment, the electric motor <NUM> may be a brushless d. In the illustrated embodiment, the blower has one stage while it is well understood that the blower may comprise two or more stages. The rotating portion of blower <NUM> is not shown in <FIG>. However, according to a preferred embodiment, impeller <NUM> according to the present invention constitutes the rotating portion of blower <NUM> according to the present invention.

The blower comprises an air inlet <NUM>, preferably having a tubular shape, as well as an air outlet <NUM>. Air inlet <NUM> is axially arranged, i.e., so that air enters the blower at the inlet <NUM> in a generally axial direction A (compare <FIG>). The term axial used herein with regard to the blower relates to the longitudinal axis of the stationary portion, e.g., around which the volute winds, and/or around which rotating portion rotates. That axis is shown in <FIG> as axis <NUM>. Arrows indicate the general direction of air flow.

The rotation imparted by the impeller generally directs the air flow radially outwardly in a tangential direction T (compare <FIG>) wherein the volute then constrains the air flow to spiral the volute. The air flow then exits as the blower or volute in a generally tangential direction T via the outlet <NUM>.

Preferably, the volute geometry directs the tangential spiralling air flow in a slight axial direction prior to exiting the blower in a generally tangential direction.

In the shown embodiment, outlet <NUM> comprises a first axis <NUM> being generally tangentially arranged with regard to the blower and particularly its volute shape and/or rotation of impeller. Tangential axis <NUM> is preferably arranged essentially perpendicular to axial axis <NUM>. Preferably, axis <NUM> and tangential axis <NUM> are distanced (shortest way) by less than <NUM>, and preferably by a length which generally corresponds to the radius of the blower, volute, and/or impeller. As indicated above, axis <NUM> preferably is a tangent to a radius <NUM> around the axis of rotation of the rotating part of the blower.

The outlet channel <NUM> of the blower <NUM> is, as shown, preferably L-shaped and comprises a first outlet portion or first outlet channel <NUM> extending along tangential axis <NUM> and a second outlet portion <NUM> extending in general perpendicular thereto and preferably parallel to axial axis <NUM>. However, it will be appreciated that according to different embodiments, the outlet channel is not L-shaped but may be straight and/or curved.

The axis of the second portion <NUM> of the outlet is herein referred to as axis <NUM> and is preferably parallel to axial axis <NUM>. However, it will be well understood that axis <NUM> of the second outlet portion <NUM> may have different directionalities. According to a preferred embodiment, axis <NUM> and <NUM> include an angle of preferably about <NUM>° to <NUM>° and preferably of about <NUM>°.

Preferably, the length of the first portion <NUM> of the outlet lies in the range from about <NUM> to <NUM> and preferably of about <NUM> along axis <NUM>. According to a preferred point of reference, the length of the first portion <NUM> along axis <NUM> starts from the intersection of axis <NUM> with the outer radius of the blower, as is indicated in <FIG>. In <FIG> the outer radius of the inside of blower <NUM> is indicated as <NUM>, while the starting point of the first portion <NUM> is indicated as 'p'. First portion <NUM> preferably ends at the cross-section of the axis <NUM> of the first portion of the outlet <NUM> and the axis <NUM> of the second portion of the outlet <NUM>.

Preferably, the blower is made of plastic material.

Preferably, the diameter of the outlet <NUM> is about <NUM> to <NUM> and preferably about <NUM>, the diameter of the inlet <NUM> is about <NUM> to <NUM> and preferably about <NUM>, the radius of the blower is about <NUM> to <NUM> and preferably about <NUM>; the shortest distance between axis <NUM> and <NUM> is about <NUM> to <NUM> and preferably about <NUM>. Preferably, the inlet <NUM> of the blower is of generally tubular shape and extends from the blower housing 202a. Inlet <NUM> preferably has a length of about <NUM> to <NUM>, preferably of about <NUM>. Preferably, inlet opening <NUM> and outlet opening <NUM> lie in one plane.

According to the present invention, the air outlet <NUM> is split into at least two channels <NUM>, <NUM>, which are preferably parallel. Preferably, the air outlet <NUM> is of substantially radial cross-sectional shape wherein the outlet is split such that each of the two channels <NUM>, <NUM> has a semi-circular cross-section and particularly has a substantially identical cross section. The two channels preferably extend along the length of the outlet <NUM> and preferably along first portion <NUM> and/or second portion <NUM>, preferably along both portions.

The present invention additionally and alternatively relates to a blade <NUM> as well as to a blower <NUM> provided with such blade <NUM>. Blade <NUM> is preferably made of the same material as the blower and is preferably integrally formed with one of the two housing parts 202a or 202b of the blower housing or volute <NUM>. Alternatively a portion of the blade <NUM> may be integrally formed in each of the two housing parts 202a and 202b. However, it will be well understood that blade <NUM> may also be provided separately and to then be connected to one or two of housing or volute parts 202a, 202b.

Blade <NUM> preferably extends substantially along the length of outlet <NUM>, and preferably along the length of the first part <NUM> and the second part <NUM> of outlet <NUM>. Blade <NUM> splits outlet <NUM> into two channels, namely a first channel <NUM> and a second channel <NUM> both of which individually extend along outlet <NUM> and first and second outlet portion <NUM>, <NUM>. Thus, blade <NUM> preferably comprises a first portion <NUM> and a second portion <NUM> corresponding to the first and second part <NUM>, <NUM> of outlet <NUM>.

Blade <NUM> preferably extends parallel to the direction of the air flow through the outlet and/or to the longitudinal axis <NUM> or axes <NUM>, <NUM> of the air outlet <NUM>. Blade <NUM> preferably extends in a plane defined by two axes, one being generally parallel and one being generally perpendicular to the axis of the volute.

Blade <NUM> is preferably located and arranged such that it extends in or into the outlet channel from a starting point 'p' as defined above. Preferably, blade <NUM> starts at said starting point 'p' or distanced from that starting point, preferably by about ± <NUM>. As will be understood, if blade <NUM> extends to far into the volute, blade pass noise will be increased. If blade <NUM> starts to far from the volute, efficiency will be less.

Preferably, outlet <NUM> has a substantially circular cross-section while blade <NUM> splits outlet <NUM> along its diameter into the first and second channel <NUM>, <NUM>, which may be of equal shape and cross-sectional diameter, preferably of semi-circular cross-section.

Blade <NUM> is preferably substantially planar and extends along the axis of outlet flow <NUM> and/or <NUM> depending on the design of outlet <NUM>. Therefore, in line with outlet <NUM>, blade <NUM> comprises a first part <NUM> and a second part <NUM> which extend along longitudinal axes preferably being identical to axis <NUM>, <NUM> of outlet <NUM>. Preferably, blade <NUM> is substantially L-shaped.

According to a preferred embodiment, the blade has a thickness of about <NUM>,<NUM> to <NUM>,<NUM>, preferably about <NUM>,<NUM> to <NUM>, a width of about <NUM> to <NUM>, preferably <NUM> to <NUM> (depending on the size of the outlet channel), and a length of about <NUM> to <NUM>, preferably of about <NUM> to <NUM>. The length of the blade is preferably at least about <NUM> to <NUM> and it preferably extends along the entire length of the outlet channel. The thickness of the blade may vary, e.g. for allowing improved demoulding after being injection moulded.

In the shown embodiment, blade <NUM> is integrally formed with blade housing part 202a by means of injection moulding. Blade housing part 202b comprised a recess <NUM> for receiving blade <NUM>. Blade housing part 202b preferably comprises an opening <NUM> (see <FIG>) for receiving a rotating member, e.g. impeller <NUM>. In use (compare <FIG>) opening <NUM> is closed by motor <NUM>.

According to another preferred embodiment, a blade generally corresponding to blade <NUM> is alternatively or also provided in a blower inlet <NUM> for splitting the inlet channel <NUM>, which preferably extends along axial axis <NUM>, into two, preferably parallel inlet channels.

<FIG> shows an exploded three dimensional view of blower <NUM> and motor <NUM>. As will be readily understood blower housing parts 200a and 200b including blade <NUM> can be individually assembled wherein a rotating portion, e.g., impeller <NUM>, is attached to drive axis of motor <NUM> and inserted into blower <NUM> via opening <NUM> provided in housing part 202b. Said opening <NUM> is preferably closed and sealed by the front face of motor <NUM>, preferably using a sealing member <NUM>. Motor <NUM> preferably comprises a cable <NUM> to be discussed below.

It will be understood that the measures and dimensions referred to above are preferred and can be varied by up scaling or downscaling the size of the blower.

Although the shown embodiment comprises two outlet channels it will be understood that the outlet channel, according to further advantageous embodiments, may comprise more than two outlet channels, e.g., three or four outlet channels. Such outlet channels can be achieved by providing more than one, e.g. two or three generally parallel blades or by providing two blades which are arranged generally vertically to one another. The same applies to a preferred blower inlet.

<FIG> and <FIG> show various views of a preferred impeller according to the present invention. Impeller <NUM> is preferably made of one-piece moulded, preferably injection moulded, plastic construction; although other suitable materials or manufacturing techniques could be employed. The impeller <NUM> comprises a plurality of vanes <NUM> extending from a disk-like shroud <NUM>.

Shroud <NUM> is, vis-à-vis the vanes <NUM>, located further distanced from the air inlet or downstream when seen in the direction of the air flow. Vanes <NUM> extend from shroud <NUM> into an upstream direction. Shroud <NUM> preferably incorporates a hub or bushing <NUM> that is adapted to receive a motor shaft <NUM>. Shroud <NUM> is preferably of a disk-like shape having a maximum outer diameter of about <NUM> to <NUM>, preferably of about <NUM>. The radially outer tips of the vanes <NUM> preferably extend to the outer diameter of shroud <NUM>. Preferably, the outer diameter of shroud <NUM> has a wavy or saw tooth shape and varies between a minimum outer diameter Dmin and a maximum outer diameter Dmax. Preferably, the maximum outer diameter Dmax is provided adjacent the radially outside tips of the vanes <NUM> while the minimum outer diameter Dmin is provided between each of two neighbouring vanes or tips of vanes <NUM>. Preferably, the maximum outer diameter Dmax lies in the range of about <NUM> to <NUM> and preferably about <NUM> and/or the minimum outer diameter lies in the range of about <NUM> to <NUM> and preferably about <NUM>. Additionally and/or alternatively, the difference between the maximum and minimum outer diameter is in the range of about <NUM> to <NUM> and preferably or about <NUM> to <NUM>.

Additionally and/or alternatively, vanes <NUM> are curved in radial direction and are preferably tapered in height in their radially outer portions. The reduced height at the tips of the vanes preferably reduces turbulences and/or noise as well as the inertia of the impeller <NUM>. Preferably, vanes <NUM> have an inlet height, i.e. at their inner diameter with regard to impeller's <NUM> axis where the air flow enters the impeller which uniformly extends along a first portion of the vanes <NUM> towards their (radially) outer end or tip. In a second portion of the vanes <NUM>, which is preferably radially outwardly of the first portion, the height of the vanes <NUM> is reduced from a first height to a second height, being lower than the first height, wherein the second height constitutes the outlet height at the radially outer end of the vanes <NUM>. Preferably, the first part extends from a starting point at the vanes' inner diameter close to the impeller's axis of rotation until a first intermediate diameter Dint1. The reduction in height starts from the first intermediate diameter towards their end at an outer diameter. The first intermediate diameter lies between the inner and outer diameters. Preferably, the maximum height of a blade is about <NUM> to <NUM> and is preferably about <NUM> and/or the minimum height of a blade, preferably close to its tip at its outer diameter, is about <NUM>,<NUM> to <NUM>,<NUM>, preferably about <NUM>,<NUM>. The geometry of the increase/decrease in height is preferably aligned with the geometry of the housing or stationary part and preferably corresponds thereto. Preferably, the difference between the inlet height and the outlet height, additionally or alternatively to the above preferred height dimensions, of the vanes <NUM> lies in the range of about <NUM>,<NUM> to <NUM>,<NUM> and more preferred of about <NUM> to <NUM>,<NUM>. The height reduction is preferably linear and/or curved.

Preferably, the blades are substantially straight from their starting point at their inner diameter close to the impeller's axis of rotation until a second intermediate diameter Dint2; and are curved from said second intermediate diameter Dint2 towards their end at the outer diameter, the second intermediate diameter lying between the inner and outer diameter. In the shown embodiment, the second intermediate diameter Dint2 lies between the first intermediate diameter Dint1 and the outer diameter Dmax. However, the second intermediate diameter Dint2 may also lay between the inner diameter and the first intermediate diameter Dint1 or equal the first intermediate diameter Dint1. The curvature can be either positive or negative while it is preferably that the curvature is negative, i.e., against direction of rotation. The positive orientation of the curvature achieves an advantageous relation of pressure over flow, thus allowing a continuous and fast reaction of the blower/impeller on changes in flow.

The first intermediate diameter Dint1 is preferably about <NUM> to <NUM> and preferably about <NUM> and/or the second intermediate diameter Dint2 is preferably about <NUM> to <NUM> and preferably about <NUM> to <NUM>.

Preferably, the vanes <NUM> have an inclination with respect to an associated tangent at their tip of between <NUM>° and <NUM>°, e.g., about <NUM>° (see <FIG>).

Preferably, impeller <NUM> has <NUM> to <NUM> blades <NUM>, e.g., <NUM>, while the number is preferably uneven.

The impeller according to the present invention preferably has an inertia of less than about <NUM>,<NUM> cm<NUM>, preferably less than about <NUM>,<NUM> cm<NUM> and more preferred of about and/or less than <NUM>,<NUM> cm<NUM>. Preferably, the inertia lies in a range between about <NUM>,<NUM> cm<NUM>, preferably <NUM>,<NUM> cm<NUM> and the above upper values.

The impeller according to the present invention is preferably made of plastic, preferably O<NUM> resistant plastic and/or preferably unfilled plastic material, such as a thermoplastic material.

The geometry and the design of the preferred impeller <NUM> according to the present invention particularly allows a significant noise reduction vis-à-vis impellors known in the art and additionally provides a comparatively low inertia. In addition, the effectiveness of impelling or pumping air is significantly reduced. It will be understood that the measures and dimensions referred to above are preferred and can be varied by up scaling or downscaling the size of the impeller. It is preferred that the impeller of this invention is used in combination with the blower of the invention.

<FIG> shows the core <NUM> of a gasket <NUM> according to the present disclosure. <FIG> shows a view on the gasket core <NUM> from a first side and <FIG> show a view of said gasket core from the opposite side. <FIG> shows a view of the core <NUM> of said gasket <NUM> from a third side (perpendicular to the views of <FIG>).

The core of the gasket is preferably made of a comparatively hard material, particularly when compared to an outer material of the gasket, and is preferably made of aluminium. Said core is provided with a plurality of structural elements for allowing air to flow through the gasket and/or for providing structural support, e.g., for a housing or a blower. Said gasket is provided with a skin or coating <NUM>, preferably of elastic plastic material and preferably made of silicon. <FIG>, which are views of core <NUM> corresponding to the views shown in <FIG> with a silicon skin or coating <NUM> applied. According to a preferred embodiment, due to manufacturing reasons, certain areas of core <NUM> remain uncoated. These areas, which result from the support of the core <NUM> during the coating process are indicated as areas <NUM>. It will be understood by the person skilled in the art that, depending on the coating or manufacturing process, different areas than those shown in <FIG> can remain uncoated. For example, areas <NUM> can be larger or smaller or there can be more or less or even none of such areas.

A gasket <NUM> comprises at least three holes or openings for defining an air path from a first side of gasket <NUM> to a second side of gasket <NUM> and/or visa-versa. In the shown embodiments, gasket <NUM> comprises a first hole <NUM> for allowing air to be sucked in from an air inlet at a low pressure area located on the second side of the gasket <NUM> into a blower located on the first side of the gasket. An opening or hole <NUM> is provided for establishing a passage of pressurized air supplied by a blower to flow from the first side <NUM> of the gasket (as shown in <FIG>) to a second side <NUM> of the gasket (shown in <FIG>). A third opening <NUM> is provided for allowing air to flow from a second side of the gasket (as shown in <FIG>) in a still pressurized state to the first side of the gasket (shown in <FIG>).

Preferably, gasket <NUM> contains further structural elements, such as recesses, holes or protrusions, for allowing proper alignment and/or connection of, e.g., a housing or parts of a housing with the gasket. In the shown embodiments, such a positioning and/or fastening means are realized as, e.g., holes <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>.

Preferably, gasket <NUM> is provided with additional structural elements for allowing proper positioning, sealing connection, dampening and/or supporting of parts attached to the basket or between the gasket and parts attached thereto. Such elements can be lips, rims, flanges, elevations, recesses or the like which can either be provided in the core <NUM> of the gasket and/or in the gasket's coating <NUM>. In the shown embodiment, respective structural elements are provided as part of coating <NUM>. For example, there are provided rims <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>. According to a preferred embodiment these rims <NUM>-<NUM> allow proper alignment, additional support and/or improved sealing of elements contacting gasket <NUM>. For example, rim <NUM> cooperates with a blower attached to the first side of gasket <NUM> while rims <NUM> and <NUM> and <NUM> are adapted to co-operate with channels or chambers of a housing or parts of a housing attached to the gasket <NUM>. Here, co-operation includes mechanical and/or visual co-operation, the latter particularly allowing improved assembly.

In the shown example, there are further provided support structures <NUM> and <NUM> which are associated with the first and second holes, respectively. These structures <NUM>, <NUM> are preferably adapted as structures defining a hole or opening being aligned with the first hole <NUM> and the second hole <NUM> as referred to above. In the following it will thus only be referred to the first and second hole <NUM>, <NUM> for the ease of reference. Support structures <NUM> and <NUM> which can be also referred to as the first support structure <NUM> and the second support structure <NUM> are preferably substantially circular but may take other geometries. The opening <NUM>, <NUM> provided by said first and second support structure <NUM>, <NUM>, respectively, is preferably defined by an inner circumference of said support structures <NUM>, <NUM>. Said inner circumference, which may be provided by a rim, is preferably elastically connected with gasket <NUM> and particularly with the core <NUM> of said gasket <NUM>. Such elastic connection may be achieved, e.g., by a folded or bellow like structure, such as shown with regard to structure <NUM> and/or by providing a portion of a thickened and/or thinned cross-section, e.g., as shown with regard to structure <NUM>. Here, structure <NUM> is provided, on the first side of gasket <NUM>, with a thickened rim 430a which extends to the second side of gasket <NUM>. On the second side of gasket <NUM>, there may be provided an additional recess 430a.

In the shown preferred embodiment, support structures <NUM> and <NUM> provide a system for sealing connection and dampening of as well as for positioning a blower to be connected with the gasket <NUM>, preferably a blower <NUM> according to the present invention. The inlet channel <NUM> of such blower then extends through first opening <NUM> while the outlet channel <NUM> extends through outlet <NUM>. Gasket <NUM> is, on its first side <NUM> on which the blower is preferably located, preferably provided with additional positioning and support means <NUM> here adapted to be circular protrusions <NUM> protruding from the first side of coated core <NUM>.

<FIG> shows core <NUM> in combination with a blower <NUM> including motor <NUM>, preferably a blower in accordance with the present invention, and with fluid flow path members <NUM> and <NUM>. <FIG> shows a view generally corresponding to the one of <FIG> while the blower <NUM> is shown in a view corresponding to that of <FIG>. As can be easily seen, blower <NUM> is attached to the first side <NUM> of gasket <NUM> with its inlet channel <NUM> extending through opening <NUM> and its outlet channel <NUM> extending through opening <NUM>. As can also be seen, the blower <NUM> is supported by support member <NUM> and additionally rests on or contacts support members <NUM>. Flow channel member <NUM> constitutes and defines a first flow channel 460a. Flow channel member <NUM> is located on a low pressure side of blower <NUM> and fills a low pressure chamber (to be discussed below) and constitutes a flow channel 460a. Flow channel member <NUM> is also referred to as low pressure flow channel member <NUM> and is preferably made of a foamed material, preferably a silicone foam and preferably of a closed-cell silicone foam. Flow channel member <NUM> defines a flow channel <NUM> located on a high pressure side of gasket <NUM> and preferably fills a high pressure chamber (to be discussed below). Preferably, high pressure flow channel member <NUM> defines a first flow channel 462a and a second flow channel 462b through which pressurized air flows in opposite directions. Flow channels 462a and 462b may be established as one channel making a, e.g., <NUM>°, turn, or may be established as, e.g., two, individual flow channels being directed in opposite or different directions while the turn or connection between these channels is established by a flow directing means, e.g., part of a housing.

As can be taken from, e.g., <FIG>, flow path 460a as preferably defined by flow channel member <NUM> extends from a connecting member <NUM> to through gasket <NUM> into blower <NUM>. Connector <NUM> preferably comprises a sensor <NUM>, preferably a flow sensor, provided on or attached to a dampening and connecting member <NUM>. Connector <NUM> is preferably connected to housing <NUM> (see <FIG>) to establish fluid connection with flow path 460a and is further adapted to be connected to inlet member <NUM> (see, e.g., <FIG>) to establish fluid connection with the inlet flow path. Connecting member <NUM> is preferably made of elastic material and/or arranged to be connected to flow path housing <NUM> and/or inlet member <NUM> by means of a plug-in connection. Due to its elastic properties, connecting member <NUM> preferably also functions as a dampening member.

In the side view according to <FIG> (compare <FIG>) sensing means <NUM> of sensor <NUM> can be seen as well as flow channel parts 462a and 462b. Through flow channel part 462a outlet <NUM> and blade <NUM> of blower <NUM> are visible.

<FIG> show views corresponding to those of <FIG> wherein blower <NUM> and fluid channel members <NUM>, <NUM> are covered by a first flow path housing part <NUM> and a second flow path housing part <NUM>. First flow path housing part <NUM> is attached to the first side <NUM> of gasket <NUM> and second flow path housing part <NUM> is attached to the second side <NUM> of gasket <NUM> (compare <FIG>). First and second housing parts <NUM>, <NUM> are provided with connection means corresponding to holes <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> of gasket <NUM> including, e.g., protrusions, recesses and/or aligned bores for introducing fastening screws or bolts or the like. In <FIG>, the respective means are identified using the same reference numerals as with regard to gasket <NUM>, i.e., <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>.

The second flow path housing part <NUM> comprises an inlet <NUM> being in fluid communication with the first fluid flow path 460a, opening <NUM> and inlet channel <NUM> of blower <NUM>, whereas the second housing part <NUM> comprises an outlet opening or channel <NUM> being in fluid communication with fluid flow path <NUM> (462a, 462b), openings <NUM> and <NUM> as well as with the outlet opening or channel <NUM> of blower <NUM>.

At inlet <NUM> of second flow path housing part <NUM> there is preferably provided a support and/or noise shield <NUM>. Preferably, shield <NUM> supports and/or shields noise emitted from an inlet connector <NUM> (only connecting member <NUM> forming part of connector <NUM> shown in <FIG>) for connecting second flow path housing part <NUM> with an air inlet member, preferably an inlet member <NUM> according to the present disclosure. Such connector <NUM> preferably comprises a flow sensor <NUM> for sensing the flow of the air or air and oxygen entering the flow path housing. To outlet <NUM> of first flow path housing part <NUM> there is preferably connected an outlet connector <NUM> (not shown in <FIG>), preferably a silicone bellow connector or decoupler, for connecting the flow path housing to a patient connector <NUM> (not shown in <FIG>).

<FIG> show views into the first and second part of housing <NUM>, <NUM>, respectively. In particular, <FIG> shows a view along line A-A indicated in <FIG> into first housing part <NUM>, not including blower <NUM>. <FIG> shows a view taken along line B-B of <FIG> into the second part of housing <NUM>, not including flow channel members <NUM>, <NUM>. As can be seen in <FIG>, housing part <NUM> is separated into two chambers, here by means of a separation wall <NUM>. A first chamber <NUM> is adapted to accommodate and support blower <NUM> and motor <NUM> while chamber <NUM> constitutes a high pressure chamber from which pressurized air is directed towards the patient. Chamber <NUM> of first part of housing <NUM> is preferably provided with supports means <NUM> for supporting blower <NUM>, and particularly the end of motor <NUM>.

<FIG> shows the second housing part <NUM> also being divided into two chambers, a low pressure chamber <NUM> and a high pressure chamber <NUM>. Preferably, these chambers are defined and separated by means of a separation wall <NUM>. Low pressure chamber <NUM> comprises an inlet chamber <NUM> and is adapted for accommodating or being filled with the first flow channel member <NUM>. Second chamber <NUM> constitutes a high pressure chamber and is adapted to house second flow channel member <NUM>. Preferably, high pressure chamber <NUM> of the second housing part <NUM> comprises spacing means <NUM> for spacing flow channel member <NUM> vis-à-vis the back wall <NUM> of said high pressure chamber <NUM>. According to a preferred embodiment, said structure allows the definition of a distance between back wall <NUM> and flow channel member <NUM> so that air flowing from the blower <NUM> in a pressurized state through channel 462a is redirected by the back wall <NUM> of the second housing <NUM> to then enter flow channel 462b in a direction generally opposite to the one through channel 462a. The pressurized air flow is then redirected through gasket <NUM> and through opening <NUM> into the high pressure chamber <NUM> of the first housing part <NUM>. Preferably, high pressure chamber <NUM> is also filled with a flow channel member (not shown) providing a flow path. According to a preferred embodiment, outlet <NUM> of a first housing part <NUM> is displaced in the view according to <FIG> so that it is, in this view, hidden by the back wall of blower chamber <NUM>.

The gasket and the further structures described above are arranged as such that the air flow, as indicated by arrows in <FIG> and <FIG>, enters the air path at opening <NUM> to then flow through low pressure channel 460a and gasket <NUM> through opening <NUM> and entering blower <NUM> at inlet <NUM>. The air is then accelerated and pressurized, as described above, and exits blower <NUM> at outlet opening <NUM> passing gasket <NUM> at opening <NUM> from the first side of the gasket to its second side. The pressurized air flow then flows through high pressure channel 462a in high pressure chamber <NUM>, is then redirected by approximately <NUM>° by back wall <NUM> of high pressure chamber <NUM> and flows along the space established between high pressure flow channel member <NUM> and back wall <NUM> by means of spacers <NUM>. The flow of air is then again redirected to flow into high pressure flow channel 462b, preferably in substantially the opposite direction to the flow of air through first high pressure channel 462a and passes gasket <NUM> through opening <NUM> from gasket's second side to the first side of the gasket. The pressured air flow thus enters high pressure chamber <NUM> provided in the first housing part <NUM> and is directed to outlet <NUM> where the pressurized air exits the air path.

The gasket <NUM> according to the present disclosure, particularly in combination with further features of the air path such as the first housing part <NUM> and/or the second housing part <NUM> and preferably in additional combination with blower <NUM> and/or one or more of the air path members allows a compact, efficient and effective flow path arrangement which is easy to produce, to assemble and to maintain. In particular, the flow path as discussed above can be assembled as a single module which can be easily inserted into a ventilation device and individually exchanged to replace without major efforts. Air path assembly is particularly beneficial as regards the power and effectiveness of the blower required to provide a desired pressure to a patient and for reacting on changes in the desired flow and/or pressure. Furthermore, the air path of the present disclosure emits less noise both via the structural components and via the air flow.

<FIG> shows a three dimensional top view of a preferred air path according to the present disclosure. The air path starts with an inlet member, preferably inlet member <NUM> according to the disclosure and to be described below from which air flows through a connector portion <NUM> into flow path housing <NUM>/<NUM>. Connector portion <NUM> is preferably provided as or comprises a flexible, preferably made of silicone, tube portion <NUM> which can be plugged into to flow path housing outlet <NUM> and/or inlet member <NUM>. Connector portion <NUM> preferably comprises a flow sensor <NUM>. At the outlet <NUM> of flow path housing <NUM> there is preferably provided a patient connector <NUM> which is preferably flexibly coupled to outlet <NUM> by means of a decoupling member or outlet connector <NUM>, preferably a silicone bellow structure. Between the decoupling member <NUM> and the patient connector <NUM> or in decoupling member <NUM> there are preferably provided ports for or at least parts of a pressure sensor <NUM> for sensing pressure of the breathing gas applied to a patient.

<FIG> also shows support members <NUM> provided on housing parts <NUM>, <NUM> for advantageously supporting the flow path in a breathing device (to be further discussed below). Said support members are provided with elastic dampeners <NUM>, preferably made of silicone. Housing parts <NUM> and/or <NUM> preferably comprise rips <NUM> provided at one side thereof, preferably at its/their lower side when seen in the orientation of the housing in a breathing device in operation.

<FIG> shows a cable in accordance with the present disclosure. The cable <NUM> comprises one or more, in the shown embodiments <NUM> metal wires, here stranded wires or litz wires <NUM>. Stranded wires or litz wires <NUM> may be of equal or differing size or diameter. In the embodiment of <FIG> wires <NUM> are located next to one another. In the embodiment of <FIG> cable <NUM>, here referred to as <NUM>', comprises <NUM> wires <NUM> arranged in a different order such as in a circle around a centre wire <NUM>. Apart from the alignment of wires <NUM>, the embodiments shown in <FIG> correspond to one another. Wires <NUM> are embedded in a silicone coating <NUM> which functions both as a coating for each individual wire <NUM>, as positioning means for each wire <NUM> with regard to neighbouring wires <NUM> and/or as self sealing skin allowing the cable <NUM>, <NUM>' to be sealingly arranged between two or more separate components without the need for additional sealing material. Preferably, silicone coating <NUM> has a thickness of at least <NUM>,<NUM>, preferably of at least <NUM>,<NUM> and preferably of at least about <NUM>,<NUM>, measured along the shortest distance from the outer circumference or outer surface of cable <NUM>, <NUM>' to one of the litz wires <NUM>.

The cable <NUM>, <NUM>' according to the present disclosure constitutes a self-sealing cable which provides insulation of different metal wires, such as different stranded or litz wires, vis-à-vis one another as well as vis-à-vis the surrounding. Any desired predefined schematic arrangement of wires <NUM> constituting cable <NUM>, <NUM>' can be manufactured in a predefined way which is individualized for the desired purpose. The silicone coating of the cable <NUM> and each of wires <NUM> allows an effective and improved sealing not only of cable <NUM> vis-à-vis its exterior. Cable <NUM>, <NUM>' can also advantageously be clamped between two parts of, e.g., a housing, wherein an improved sealing of the interior of the housing against the exterior of the housing (or vice versa) is achieved by a cable <NUM> according to the present disclosure. Cable <NUM> particularly allows to be run into or out of a high pressure chamber without negatively influencing the pressure relations existing in the chamber.

<FIG> shows a side view of an inlet member <NUM> according to the present disclosure as seen in a back view of a ventilation device, e.g., such as in <FIG>. <FIG> shows a top view of said inlet member <NUM> and <FIG> shows a bottom view. <FIG> shows a side view seen in an opposite direction of the view shown in <FIG>.

Inlet member <NUM> comprises an inlet housing <NUM> comprising at least a first inlet housing part <NUM> and a second inlet housing part <NUM>. According to the shown embodiment, the housing comprises an additional third inlet housing part <NUM>. The first part <NUM> of the filter housing comprises and/or defines air inlets <NUM> (which according to a preferred embodiment correspond to air inlet <NUM> of the ventilation device discussed with regard to, e.g., <FIG>). According to a preferred embodiment, one or more air inlets <NUM>, <NUM> comprise an air shield deflecting the air entering the housing and dampening noise from inside the ventilation device. Such air shield preferably extends from the inner side of the first part, preferably from a portion below the air inlet(s), at least partly along the opening, preferably extending across the opening at an angle to the plane of the opening. Seen in a direction of the air flow through the air inlet(s) the shield preferably at least partly crosses the air flow. Preferably, the inlet(s) define openings in a vertical surface of the first part. An outlet <NUM> is provided in the third part <NUM> of housing <NUM>. The inlet member <NUM> also comprises a second inlet <NUM> (according to a preferred embodiment corresponding to inlet <NUM> discussed above, e.g., with regard to <FIG>). Such second inlet <NUM>, preferably for the supply of additional oxygen, is provided in the first <NUM> or second <NUM> inlet housing part. In the shown preferred embodiment the second inlet <NUM> is provided by a second inlet member <NUM> connected to the second inlet housing part <NUM> while first inlet housing part <NUM> is provided with an opening or cut out <NUM> allowing access to the second inlet from the exterior of inlet member <NUM>. <FIG> show a preferred embodiment of a first inlet housing part <NUM> while the views shown correspond to those of <FIG>. <FIG> show a preferred embodiment of a second inlet housing part <NUM> while the views shown correspond to those of <FIG>. In <FIG> (top and bottom view) also the third inlet housing part <NUM> is shown, which, however, is not shown in <FIG>.

Second housing part <NUM> comprises an inlet opening, preferably extending along a large area, which is adapted to be covered by an inlet filter <NUM>. First inlet housing part <NUM>, inlet filter <NUM>, second inlet housing part <NUM> and third inlet housing part <NUM> are arranged such that air flowing into the inlet member <NUM> through air inlet <NUM> flows along an inlet or filter path through filter <NUM> and then into an inlet chamber <NUM> defined between inlet filter <NUM> and an air outlet <NUM> defined in the third inlet housing part <NUM>. From that inlet chamber <NUM> the inlet path further extends, preferably through a second inlet chamber <NUM> defined between/by the second part of the housing <NUM> and the third part of the inlet housing <NUM>. Said second chamber <NUM> preferably functions as a muffling chamber and is preferably filled with an inlet flow path member <NUM> defining an inlet flow path. From the second chamber <NUM> the inlet path preferably extends out of the inlet member <NUM> through outlet opening <NUM>.

Preferably, the oxygen inlet <NUM> opens into an oxygen channel in member <NUM> which extends from the oxygen inlet <NUM> through the opening <NUM> of the first inlet housing part <NUM> along the second housing part <NUM> wherein it preferably extends parallel and distinct to inlet filter <NUM> and the first inlet chamber <NUM>.

A second inlet housing part <NUM> preferably comprises a first outlet opening <NUM> being in fluid communication with the inlet air flow and the first inlet chamber <NUM> as well as a second outlet opening <NUM> being in fluid communication with and constituting the end of the oxygen inlet channel. First or air outlet <NUM> and second or oxygen outlet <NUM> are preferably arranged in a substantially coaxial manner. Air outlet <NUM> and oxygen outlet <NUM> preferably open into the second inlet chamber <NUM>. Preferably, air outlet <NUM> has a ring-shaped cross section or geometry while oxygen outlet <NUM> has a ring-shaped configuration, preferably surrounding second outlet opening <NUM>. Thus, outlets <NUM>, <NUM> are arranged such that the air flow through the air inlet <NUM> and through the filter <NUM> is mixed with the oxygen supplied through the oxygen inlet <NUM>, with regard to the direction of air and oxygen flow, after the air inlet flow and the oxygen inlet flow have passed the second part of the inlet housing <NUM> through air outlet <NUM> and oxygen outlet <NUM>, respectively, and, preferably, in second inlet chamber <NUM>. Said mixing is supported by the directed flow provided by the geometry of the substantially coaxially arranged outlets and starts in the second inlet chamber <NUM> and is further promoted throughout the flow through the air path. Thus, an excellent mixing of air and additions, such as oxygen, is achieved until the airflow reaches the patient. Preferably, the ring-shaped air outlet <NUM> extends around oxygen outlet opening <NUM>.

It will be well understood that the first part of the inlet housing <NUM>, according to a preferred embodiment, primarily serves as a shield or cover for protecting inlet filter <NUM> from being damaged in use, for noise shielding and reduction and simultaneously serves for optically integrating inlet member <NUM> into a ventilation device, e.g., a device discussed with regard to <FIG> of the present invention.

The basic structure of a preferred embodiment of the second inlet housing part <NUM> is preferably as follows. Second inlet housing part <NUM> comprises a substantially planar base wall <NUM> from which, on at least one side thereof, side walls extend defining, together with base wall <NUM> an open chamber. In the shown embodiment, side walls <NUM> define, together with base wall <NUM> an open first inlet chamber <NUM>. Side walls <NUM> define, together with base wall <NUM> an open second inlet chamber <NUM>. As discussed above, first inlet chamber <NUM> is closed by filter element <NUM>. Second inlet chamber <NUM> is closed by third inlet housing part <NUM>. Preferably, third inlet housing part <NUM> is configured a substantially planar lid with a channel like, preferably substantially circular, protrusion defining outlet <NUM>.

Filter element <NUM> is shown in <FIG> of which <FIG> shows a preferred embodiment of filter <NUM> in a side view (compare <FIG>, <FIG>). <FIG> shows filter element <NUM> in accordance with the view shown in <FIG> connected to second inlet housing part <NUM>. <FIG> shows a top view according to <FIG> with second inlet housing part <NUM> and inlet filter <NUM>. Filter element <NUM> comprises a frame <NUM> as well as a filter material <NUM> connected to the frame <NUM>. The filter element <NUM> and thus its frame <NUM> and filter material <NUM>, preferably generally extend in one or at least one plane. The frame <NUM> is preferably endless and more preferably of generally oval or rectangular configuration defining a plane, preferably plane of the filter element, in which the filter material <NUM> extends. The filter element preferably extends across the cross section of the air path between the air inlet and the air outlet to ensure that all air entering the device flows through the filter and is thus filtered. It will thus be appreciated that the filter element may take other forms than the ones referred to herein. It is, however, preferred that the filter element has a substantially planar extension or configuration. Preferably, the filter element <NUM> comprises a cut-out, recess or opening <NUM>, particular for allowing the extension of the additional or second inlet or the corresponding second inlet path past the filter element (see <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>), without having to flow through the filter. This particularly allows the parallel supply from ambient air and oxygen along to separate flow paths which can then be combined or mixed downstream of the filter element. This improves the possibility of proper mixing the ambient air with an additional supply of oxygen and at the same time reduces the loss of the supplied oxygen, e.g., via the air inlet. The oxygen inlet path, which preferably has a channel like configuration, thus extends from the oxygen inlet, preferably forming part of the second part of the inlet housing along the filter element to the outlet provided in the second part of the housing. The oxygen inlet path is thus preferably part of the second part of the inlet housing. Preferably, the inlet path protrudes from the second part of the inlet housing and extends up to or through the first part of the inlet housing. Preferably, the first part of the inlet housing is provided with an opening or recess for allowing easy accessibility of the oxygen inlet. The oxygen inlet is preferably provided with a connection means for connecting an oxygen supply (not shown).

The filter material is connected to the filter frame, preferably by means of gluing or bonding. However, it will be understood that different technologies may be applied. The filter frame is preferably made of a plastic material. According to a preferred embodiment, a sealing or positioning means such as a rim or lip is provided for allowing proper positioning and/or improved sealing contact of the filter frame with regard to the first and/or second part of the filter housing. Such sealing or positioning means can either be provided on the frame and/or on the first and/or second part of the housing. The filter frame is preferably made from elastic material, such as TPE. This preferably allows improved sealing of the filter in the housing and reduces bypass flow.

The second inlet chamber <NUM> preferably constitutes a muffling chamber which is preferably filled with a muffling material, preferably a foam material such as silicone foam, which preferably defines a part of an inlet flow channel. The muffling chamber <NUM> also comprises an outlet opening <NUM> adapted to be connected to a flow path of a breathing device, preferably a flow path of a breathing device according to the present invention. Since, according to a preferred embodiment, the flow of air and oxygen are mixed, preferably upon entry into the inlet muffling chamber and/or along the inlet fluid flow path, the inlet muffling chamber comprised only one outlet through which the combined flow of air and oxygen flows.

The inlet housing parts <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> preferably comprise fastening means for connecting the different housing parts with one another and/or with a breathing device. Preferably, such fastening means are known to the person skilled in the art such as snap-fit fastening means, hole and pin, or screw - hole connections.

<FIG> shows an exploded view of the inlet member according to <FIG>. Here, the relation and orientation of first inlet member housing part <NUM>, second inlet member housing part <NUM>, third inlet member housing part <NUM>, filter element <NUM>, inlet flow path member <NUM> as well as second channel <NUM> and oxygen inlet <NUM> can be readily seen.

The disclosure additionally and alternatively relates to a modular ventilation or breathing device as referred to above and particularly for use with a blower, impeller, gasket, air path and/or inlet member according to the present invention.

The respiration or ventilation device <NUM> according to the present invention is preferably of an advantageous modular structure and comprises a housing module <NUM>, preferably corresponding to housing <NUM> as referred to above, provided with operator input and display means. Additionally, there is provided an electric module <NUM>, preferably comprising a skeleton carrier for carrying, i. , a control unit, battery pack <NUM>, power supply <NUM> and further electronics required, for providing structural support and/or for allowing defined positioning of the modules and parts of the ventilation device. The ventilation device <NUM> further comprises an air path module <NUM> comprising an air path housing, comprising an air path inlet and an air path outlet, in which a blower is located. Preferably, the air path (here also referred to as air path <NUM>) is the air path according to the present disclosure comprising air path housing <NUM>, <NUM>, gasket <NUM> etc. while the gasket and/or the air path housing carries a blower <NUM> including a motor <NUM>, preferably the blower according to the present invention.

Preferably, the air path module includes an inlet member, preferably the inlet member <NUM> in accordance with the present disclosure and/or a patient connector <NUM>. Preferably, inlet member <NUM> is connected to air path <NUM> via a plug-in bushing <NUM>, preferably made of silicone and comprising flow sensor <NUM>. Preferably, bushing <NUM> also serves for dampening and decoupling inlet member <NUM> from air path housing <NUM>. Preferably, patient connector <NUM> is connected to air path <NUM> via a connector member <NUM>, preferably being arranged as a bellow like silicone member for dampening and decoupling patient connector <NUM> from air path housing <NUM>, <NUM>.

Preferably, inlet member <NUM> comprises two fastening bores <NUM> wherein patient connector <NUM> also comprises two fastening bores <NUM>. Preferably, air path housing <NUM>, <NUM> comprises structural location members <NUM> which may be provided with dampening elements <NUM>.

The electric module <NUM> is preferably further adapted to be connected to and support the housing of the ventilation device as well as to support and/or position the air path module. In addition, the skeleton carrier and/or the electric module is preferably adapted to and comprises means for allowing a proper alignment and positioning of the different parts and modules of the ventilation device such as the parts of the housing module and/or the air path element. The electric module preferably comprises the power supply <NUM>, battery or accumulator pack <NUM>, control unit and/or a display unit. Skeleton member preferably comprises support <NUM>, <NUM> structures being, in an assembled state, aligned with fastening bores <NUM>, <NUM> provided in the inlet member <NUM> and/or the patient connector <NUM>. Skeleton member furthermore comprises positioning means <NUM> for cooperating with location members <NUM> of the air path housing.

The housing module <NUM> comprises an upper housing part 720a and a lower housing part 720b (compare discussion of <FIG> with regard to housing parts 140a and 104b, preferably corresponding to housing part 720a and720b).

Air path module <NUM>, which comprises every part of the air path, i.e. every part of the ventilation device being in contact with inhaled or exhaled air, is laid into the lower part 720b of housing module <NUM>. For supporting air path module <NUM> in housing module <NUM> there is preferably provided a dampening and/or supporting pad <NUM> which comprises structural means, preferably raised portions <NUM>, for supporting air path module <NUM>. Preferably, support structures <NUM> are adapted to cooperate with structural support means <NUM> provided on one or both parts of air path housing <NUM>, <NUM>. Preferably raised support structures <NUM> and raised support structures <NUM> are adapted as elongated means, e.g., elongate rims, wherein the support structures <NUM> of the supporting pad <NUM> and the support structures <NUM> of the air path preferably extend into different directions and preferably extend generally transverse to one another. This preferably improves proper, easy and secure positioning. The air path module <NUM> is simply laid into lower part 720b of housing module <NUM> without the need for any further fastening or connection members. The air path is positioned such, that holes <NUM> and <NUM> provided in inlet member <NUM> and patient connector <NUM>, respectively, are aligned with corresponding holes 722b and 724b provided in the lower housing part 720b. Preferably, holes 722b and 724b are provided in protruding posts which are in aligned contact with inlet member <NUM> and patient connector <NUM>.

Preferably, the device comprises a fan (not shown) placed on the lower part 720b of housing module <NUM> and, preferably, corresponding with a corresponding opening or air inlet (not shown) provided in said lower part. The location of the fan is preferably such that, after assembly, the fan is positioned below the electric module <NUM> and preferably below power supply <NUM> and/or battery or accumulator pack <NUM>. Preferably, the fan is adapted and positioned to direct an air flow along power supply <NUM> and/or battery or accumulator pack <NUM>. The air flow may then advantageously be directed along the electric module <NUM> to the inlet member <NUM> being provided with respective air outlet openings. The air flow provided by the fan is defined and separated from the air flow entering the device and being provided to the patient. Such air flow is preferably adapted to cool one or more electric components. This may improve operation of the device and/or the charging process of the accumulator pack.

Preferably, the fan is supported, preferably clamped, in the device between lower part 720b and electric module <NUM>. Preferably, no screws or fasting means are used. The fan preferably comprises an elastic, preferably silicone, jacket or sheath extending around at least part of the (rigid) fan housing. Such elastic structure may allow the fan to be properly dampened, positioned and/or handled. Preferably, the lower part 720b of housing module <NUM>, the electric module <NUM> and/or the elastic jacket comprise(s) structural means for properly positioning the fan in the device. Such solution particularly allows the provision of an advantageous fan which can easily be handled, properly positioned and advantageously supported in the device, particularly improving noise reduction. Preferably, the silicone jacket and the air inlet provided the lower part 720b are aligned in a sealing manner, sealing air path of the air entering the inlet and the fan against the surrounding inside the device. The elastic, preferably silicone, jacket is thus preferably multifunctional in that it provides mechanical support, servers sealing purposes, and dampens or decouples the fan from the housing.

Then, the electric module <NUM> is placed over the air path module. Electric module <NUM>, preferably its skeleton member, is provided with fastening means or holes <NUM> and <NUM> which are aligned with fastening means or holes <NUM> and <NUM> of the air path module <NUM>. In addition, electric module <NUM> comprises support structures <NUM> which cooperate with support structures <NUM>, <NUM> of the air path module <NUM> and thus allow proper positioning and securing in place of air path module <NUM>. Next, the upper part of the housing module 720a is placed over the electric module <NUM>. Hosing module 720a comprises fastening structures of holes <NUM> and <NUM> corresponding to and aligned with respective holes <NUM>, <NUM> of the lower housing module <NUM>, holes <NUM>, <NUM> of the air path module <NUM> and holes <NUM>, <NUM> of the electric module <NUM>. By screwing a screw into these holed, the parts of the housing module are then screwed to one another, thereby simultaneously fixing and securing the position of the air path module and the electric module, generally without the need for further fixation. Preferably, one or more of fastening means or holes <NUM>, <NUM> comprises an end stop (not shown) serving as an abutment for air path module in case of excessive movement of the air path module, e.g. resulting from a strong hit against the device.

While the invention has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, such illustration and description are to be considered illustrative or exemplary and non-restrictive; the invention is thus not limited to the disclosed embodiments. Variations to the disclosed embodiments can be understood and effected by those skilled in the art and practicing the claimed invention, from a study of the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims. A single unit may fulfil the functions of several items recited in the claims. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures can not be used to advantage. Any reference signs in the claims should not be considered as limiting the scope.

Claim 1:
Blower (<NUM>) for a respiratory apparatus for providing a supply of breathable gas at positive pressure comprising:
a breathable gas inlet (<NUM>); and
a breathable gas outlet (<NUM>);
a rotating portion comprising a shaft (<NUM>) and an impeller (<NUM>) configured to accelerate the breathable gas entering the blower at the breathable gas inlet;
a stationary portion;
the impeller (<NUM>) being characterized by:
a shroud (<NUM>) having a substantially wavy or tooth shaped outer circumference, wherein an outer diameter of the shroud varies between a maximum outer diameter (Dmax) and a minimum outer diameter (Dmin); and
a plurality of vanes (<NUM>) extending from the shroud (<NUM>), wherein, vis-à-vis the vanes (<NUM>), the shroud (<NUM>) is located further distanced from the breathable gas inlet (<NUM>);
wherein the maximum outer diameter (Dmax) of the shroud (<NUM>) is reached in a vicinity of or adjacent radially outside tips of the vanes (<NUM>) while the minimum outer diameter (Dmin) is reached between two adjacent vanes (<NUM>);
wherein the vanes (<NUM>) are radially arranged and extend from an inner diameter to an outer diameter;
wherein the vanes (<NUM>) have a substantially uniform height from their starting point at the inner diameter until a first intermediate diameter (Dint1), and a decreasing height from said first intermediate diameter (Dint1) towards their end at their outer diameter, the first intermediate (Dint1) diameter lying between the inner and outer diameters; and
wherein the vanes (<NUM>) are substantially straight from their starting point at the inner diameter until a second intermediate diameter (Dint2) and are curved from the second intermediate diameter (Dint2) towards their end at the outer diameter, the second intermediate diameter (Dint2) lying between the inner diameter and the outer diameter, and the curvature of the vanes (<NUM>) being positive, i.e., towards a direction of rotation.