Patent Description:
The presently disclosed subject matter relates to a respiratory assembly, and particularly to a respiratory nasal assembly for engaging the nostrils of a person.

Facial masks and nasal cannula are typically used for treating individuals with sleeping and breathing disorders. High flow of respirator gas can be delivered to an individual through a nasal cannula and/or a facial mask. Similarly, fluid such as ambient air or oxygen-enriched air can be delivered through a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) masks to a patient under a predetermined or desired pressure setting.

CPAP Masks and cannula that currently exist in the market are typically bulky, making them less aesthetically pleasing and less ergonomically effective. Further, conventional masks and cannula must provide sealable engagement with the patient's skin, leaving unsightly wear marks that require significant amounts of time to dissipate. The depressions or marks result from both the ridges of the mask enveloping the mouth and/or the nostril and from the straps or connections positioned about the individual's head. Due to the bulky nature of conventional CPAP masks and cannula, the ability of the wearer to move his/her head during sleep is constrained. For example, when the wearer of a conventional CPAP mask lies on her side during sleep, the wearer's pillow can contact and dislodge the mask, thereby evacuating the pressure within the mask assembly. As a result, the wearer wakes up or otherwise does not receive treatment gases under the ideal pressure.

Accordingly, there is a need for an improved respiratory assembly that addresses the disadvantages associated with conventional CPAP masks.

This summary is provided to introduce in a simplified form concepts that are further described in the following detailed descriptions. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it to be construed as limiting the scope of the claimed subject matter.

Disclosed herein is a nasal respiratory assembly. According to various embodiments, the assembly includes a pair of sheets, each sheet defining an opening sized and shaped to fit over a nostril of a patient, with a ferromagnetic dome-shaped ring positioned at an underside of the sheet and circumferentially aligned with the opening, with an upper side of the sheet configured for sealable engagement with the nostril. A pair of posts are provided, each post including a magnetic ring positioned at a first end and a ball shaped receptacle positioned at a second end with a passageway extending from the first to the second ends, the magnetic ring removably attachable to the dome-shaped ring. A pair of conduit adapters defining openings therethrough for fluid flow are provided; a post end of each conduit adapter including a socket, each socket shaped to receive the ball shaped receptacle in a ball and socket arrangement to form a substantially airtight connection therewith. a connector end of the conduit adapter cooperates with a channel opening of a connector of a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine to form a substantially airtight connection therewith.

According to one or more embodiments, each receptacle is configured to form an interference fit with the socket of the conduit adapter.

According to one or more embodiments, the connector end of the conduit adapter encircles the channel opening of the connector to form an interference fit.

According to one or more embodiments, the channel opening of the connector stretches over and encircles the connector end of the conduit adapter to form an interference fit.

According to one or more embodiments, an interior of the conduit adapter defines an approximate cylindrical opening.

According to one or more embodiments, an exterior of the conduit adapter has an approximate hour-glass shape.

According to one or more embodiments, the conduit adapter comprises an elastomeric material or low-density polyethylene (LDPE).

According to one or more embodiments, the assembly lacks straps, masks, or both.

According to one or more embodiments, the fluid is selected from a gas, a mixture of gases, or a gas with a medication.

According to one or more embodiments, a wall thickness of the conduit adapter varies along a height of the conduit adapter.

According to one or more embodiments, a flexibility of the conduit adapter material varies along a height of the conduit adapter.

According to one or more embodiments, a wall thickness of the conduit adapter increases progressively moving from ends of the conduit adapter towards the mid-height section of the conduit adapter.

According to one or more embodiments, an upper surface of the post is angled.

According to one or more embodiments, an opening of the magnetic ring has a round, oblong, oval or tear drop shape, wherein the shape of an opening of the dome-shaped ring compliments the shape of an opening of the magnetic ring.

According to one or more embodiments, an inlet at a vent end of the connector is in fluid communication with a flexible tubing connected to a fluid source.

According to one or more embodiments, the connector is part of a generic off-the-shelf continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine.

According to one or more embodiments, the fluid is supplied from a high flow generator, a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine, a fluid tank, or a humidifier.

Disclosed herein is a nasal respiratory assembly. According to one or more embodiments, the assembly includes a pair of sheets, each sheet defining an opening sized and shaped to fit over a nostril of a patient, with a ferromagnetic ring positioned at an underside of the sheet and circumferentially aligned with the opening, with an upper side of the sheet configured for sealable engagement with the nostril. The assembly further includes a pair of posts, each post including a magnetic ring positioned at a first end and a receptacle positioned at a second end with a passageway extending from the first to the second ends, the magnetic ring removably attachable to the ferromagnetic ring. The assembly also includes a pair of conduit adapters defining openings therethrough for fluid flow, a post end of each conduit adapter including a socket, each socket shaped to receive the receptacle in an interference fit to form a substantially airtight connection therewith. A connector end of the conduit adapter cooperates with a channel opening of a connector of a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine to form a substantially airtight connection therewith.

According to one or more embodiments, the conduit adapter comprises an elastomeric material.

According to one or more embodiments, an opening of the magnetic ring has a round, oblong, oval or tear drop shape, wherein the shape of an opening of the ferromagnetic ring compliments the shape of an opening of the magnetic ring.

The foregoing, as well as the following Detailed Description of preferred embodiments, is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purposes of illustration, there is shown in the drawings exemplary embodiments; however, the presently disclosed subject matter is not limited to the specific methods and instrumentalities disclosed.

The embodiments illustrated, described, and discussed herein are illustrative of the present invention. As these embodiments of the present invention are described with reference to illustrations, various modifications or adaptations of the methods and or specific structures described may become apparent to those skilled in the art. It will be appreciated that modifications and variations are covered by the above teachings and within the scope of the appended claims. Hence, these descriptions and drawings should not be considered in a limiting sense, as it is understood that the present invention is in no way limited to only the embodiments illustrated.

Below, the technical solutions in the examples of the present invention are depicted clearly and comprehensively with reference to the figures according to the examples of the present invention. Obviously, the examples depicted here are merely some examples, but not all examples of the present invention. In general, the components in the examples of the present invention depicted and shown in the figures herein can be arranged and designed according to different configurations. Thus, detailed description of the examples of the present invention provided in the figures below are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention as claimed, but merely represent selected examples of the present invention. On the basis of the examples of the present invention, all of other examples that could be obtained by a person skilled in the art without using inventive efforts will fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

The descriptions of the various embodiments of the present invention have been presented for purposes of illustration, but are not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the embodiments disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope of the appended claims. The terminology used herein was chosen to best explain the principles of the embodiments, the practical application or technical improvement over technologies found in the marketplace, or to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the embodiments disclosed herein.

The corresponding structures, materials, acts, and equivalents of all means or step plus function elements in the claims below are intended to include any structure, material, or act for performing the function in combination with other claimed elements as specifically claimed. The description of the present invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the invention in the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope of the appended claims. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and the practical application, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the invention for various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

These and other changes can be made to the disclosure in light of the Detailed Description. While the above description describes certain embodiments of the disclosure, and describes the best mode contemplated, no matter how detailed the above appears in text, the teachings can be practiced in many ways. Details of the system may vary considerably in its implementation details, while still being encompassed by the subject matter disclosed herein. As noted above, particular terminology used when describing certain features or aspects of the disclosure should not be taken to imply that the terminology is being redefined herein to be restricted to any specific characteristics, features, or aspects of the disclosure with which that terminology is associated. In general, the terms used in the following claims should not be construed to limit the disclosure to the specific embodiments disclosed in the specification, unless the above Detailed Description of The Embodiments section explicitly defines such terms. Accordingly, the actual scope of the disclosure encompasses not only the disclosed embodiments, but also all equivalent ways of practicing or implementing the disclosure under the claims.

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood to one of ordinary skill in the art to which the presently disclosed subject matter pertains. Although any methods, devices, and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the presently disclosed subject matter, representative methods, devices, and materials are now described.

Following long-standing patent law convention, the terms "a", "an", and "the" refer to "one or more" when used in the subject specification, including the claims. Thus, for example, reference to "a device" can include a plurality of such devices, and so forth.

Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities of components, conditions, and so forth used in the specification and claims are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term "about". Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in the instant specification and attached claims are approximations that can vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by the presently disclosed subject matter.

As used herein, the term "about", when referring to a value or to an amount of mass, weight, time, volume, concentration, and/or percentage can encompass variations of, in some embodiments +/-<NUM>%, in some embodiments +/-<NUM>%, in some embodiments +/-<NUM>%, in some embodiments +/-<NUM>%, in some embodiments +/-<NUM>%, and in some embodiments +/-<NUM>%, from the specified amount, as such variations are appropriate in the disclosed packages and methods.

As noted earlier, CPAP Masks and cannula that currently exist in the market are typically bulky, making them less aesthetically pleasing and less ergonomically effective. In recent times, mask-less respiratory assemblies that are typically more comfortable for patient use have recently become available in the marketplace. However, the sunk cost associated with the investment made in purchasing a conventional CPAP mask may prevent some patients from converting to these newly available mask-less CPAP respiratory assemblies.

Embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter advantageously provide for an adapter that can allow for modifying any existing conventional CPAP respiratory assembly that includes a mask, with the modification resulting in the elimination of the need for a mask as well as the associated strap that secures the mask to a patient's face. According to various embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter, a pair of conduit adapters are provided. The conduit adapters advantageously provide for the modification of most existing conventional CPAP respiratory assemblies that includes a mask by eliminating the need for the mask as well as the strap that secures the mask to a patient's face. According to at least one embodiment, each of the conduit adapters as disclosed herein can be inserted into one of two complimenting channel openings provided in any or most conventional nasal pillow CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) mask available on the market. In various embodiments, the silicone or other stretchable material of the nasal pillow mask can be stretched over the conduit adapter to create a seal, therefore, converting that "other brand of mask" into a new magnetic maskless CPAP device as will be explained hereinafter. This can advantageously permit other existing mask-based CPAP devices to be modified into maskless CPAP devices, wherein each of such modified maskless CPAP device is provided with a magnetic attachment / detachment mechanism (instead of straps) for attaching the CPAP device and supplying fluid from the CPAP device to the nares of a user. In at least one embodiment, each conduit adapter is configured for jamming down into the two openings of any existing nasal pillow CPAP mask available on the market, whereby the silicone or similar stretchable material extends over, and encircles one end of the hourglass shaped conduit adapter to create a seal, therefore, converting that "other brand of mask" into a new magnetic mask to be used with tape based metal / magnetic ring attachment setup as will be described herein.

Embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter can accordingly advantageously eliminate the need for a mask (as well as the need for the straps needed for securing the mask to a user's face) as found in existing CPAP devices. Embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter can advantageously allow an user to modify the user's existing mask CPAP device through a DIY (Do it Yourself) project by cutting off the headgear of the CPAP nasal pillow cushion and turning it into a magnetic attachment/detachment system (that does not require a mask or straps) merely by inserting one end of each conduit adapter disclosed herein down into each of the two channel openings of CPAP nasal pillow cushion, the two channel openings resulting from the cutting off of the headgear of the CPAP nasal pillow cushion. According to some alternate embodiments, the stretchable material of the conduit adapter can be stretched over the channel opening of the nasal pillow mask. Aspects of the invention will now be described with reference to the drawings.

Embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter are directed to a respiratory assembly. The figures provided herein illustrate one or more embodiments of a nasal assembly capable of being installed upon a patient according to one or more embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter. According to at least one embodiment, nasal respiratory assembly <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> comprises a pair of sheets <NUM>. Each sheet <NUM> defines an opening sized and shaped to fit over a nostril of a patient, with a ferromagnetic ring <NUM> (in some embodiments the ferromagnetic ring may be dome shaped; see dome-shaped ferromagnetic ring <NUM>, for example) positioned at an underside of the sheet and circumferentially aligned with the opening. An upper side of the sheet configured for sealable engagement with the nostril. Nasal respiratory assembly <NUM> further includes a pair of port magnet posts <NUM>, each post including a magnetic ring <NUM> positioned at magnet socket <NUM> at a first end, and a ball shaped receptacle <NUM> positioned at a second end with a passageway extending from the first to the second ends, the magnetic ring <NUM> removably attachable to the ferromagnetic ring <NUM>. Nasal respiratory assembly <NUM> further includes a pair of conduit adapters <NUM> with openings therethrough for fluid flow. A post end of each conduit adapter <NUM> includes a post end socket <NUM>. Each post end socket <NUM> is shaped to receive the ball shaped receptacle <NUM> in a ball and socket arrangement to form a substantially airtight connection therewith. A connector end <NUM> of the conduit adapter cooperates with a channel opening <NUM> of a connector of a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine to form a substantially airtight connection therewith. The ball shaped receptacle <NUM> is configured to pivotably move or rotate about an inner surface of post end socket <NUM> while still maintaining a substantially airtight connection therewith.

According to one or more embodiments, each ball shaped receptacle <NUM> is configured to form an interference fit with the post end socket <NUM> of conduit adapter <NUM>. In some embodiments, the connector end <NUM> of the conduit adapter encircles the channel opening <NUM> of nasal connector <NUM> (nasal connector <NUM> forms part of a generic CPAP device) to form an interference fit. In some alternate embodiments, the channel opening <NUM> of nasal connector <NUM> forming part of a generic CPAP device is stretched over and encircles the connector end <NUM> of conduit adapter <NUM> to form an interference fit. Typically, the channel opening regions of connector present in nasal pillow CPAP devices available in the market are made of stretchable materials such as, for example, silicone. The silicone material can be stretched over the connector end <NUM> of conduit adapter <NUM> in some embodiments; in some alternate embodiments, the connector end <NUM> of the conduit adapter (the conduit adapter, at least in the region of the connector end <NUM> is made of a stretchable material) can be stretched to encircle the channel opening <NUM> of nasal connector <NUM>. The flexible or stretchable material of the channel opening region of the nasal connector can facilitate a substantially airtight fit with the stretchable (or flexible) material of the conduit adapter in general, and particularly with the connector end region of the conduit adapter.

In some embodiments, an interior of the conduit adapter has an approximate cylindrical opening. In at least one embodiment, an exterior of the conduit adapter has an approximate hourglass shaped opening. In at least one embodiment, an exterior as well as an interior of the conduit adapter has an approximate hourglass shaped opening. However, any other suitable shape may be provided for the interior of the conduit adapter. For example, in one embodiment, post end socket portion of the opening may be shaped to compliment the shape of ball shaped receptacle <NUM>. In one embodiment, post end socket portion of the opening may be shaped to compliment the shape of ball shaped receptacle <NUM> and further form an interference fit therewith. In some embodiments, the thickness of the wall of the conduit adapter may vary along the height of the conduit adapter. For example, in some embodiments, a thickness of the wall of the conduit adapter is greater at the ends of the conduit adapter with the thickness progressively thickening as one proceeds from the ends towards the mid-section of the height of the conduit adapter. Similarly, the flexibility of the wall can also vary along the height of the conduit adapter; in one embodiment, the end regions of conduit adapter <NUM> can be more flexible as compared to the mid-section region of conduit adapter <NUM>. In one embodiment, the mid-section region can be more flexible as compared to one or more end regions. Particularly, the thickness and the flexibility of the connector end region of the conduit adapter, the inside shape of the opening at the connector end region, and / or the external contour of the conduit adapter at or near the connector end region may be configured to suitably fit the channel openings <NUM> of the various nasal connectors available in the market. For example, in some embodiments, an exterior surface of the conduit adapter can have an approximate hour-glass shape with a brim provided at the connector end, with the brim including a rim that circumferentially extends inward into the opening for improving the grip on the connector opening inserted into the opening at the connector end of the conduit adapter. In some embodiments, an exterior surface of the conduit adapter can include a brim provided at the connector end, with the brim including a rim that circumferentially extends outwards for improving the grip on the connector opening when the connector end is inserted into channel opening. In some embodiments, the inner surfaces and/or the outer surfaces of conduit adapter <NUM> or portions thereof may be coated with a glue material in order to form an airtight bond with the channel opening <NUM> and/or the openings of the ball shaped receptacle. In some embodiments, the bond formed by the glue material is permanent, whereas in other embodiments, the bond may be detachable/temporary albeit requiring considerable effort to detach the bond.

In various embodiments, the conduit adapter can be made of an elastomeric material. In some embodiments, at least some portion of the conduit adapter can be made of an elastomeric material. In some other embodiments, the whole of the conduit adapter can be made of low-density polyethylene (LDPE). Accordingly, in various embodiments, the nasal assembly including a conduit adapter as described herein can advantageously eliminate the need for straps, masks, or both. The generic CPAP device that the conduit adapter is attached may be supplied with a fluid selected from a gas, a mixture of gases, or a gas with a medication.

<FIG> accordingly illustrates a nasal respiratory assembly such as nasal respiratory assembly <NUM> capable of being installed upon a patient according to one or more embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter. As shown, the nasal respiratory assembly includes sheets <NUM> that are configured to engage the nares (i.e., nostrils) of the patient. The nasal respiratory assembly also includes socket magnet posts such as port magnet posts <NUM>. One end of each port magnet post <NUM> is configured to removably attach to a ferromagnetic ring <NUM> on sheet <NUM> through the presence of a magnetic field; the other end of each port magnet post <NUM> is configured to engage an opening of conduit adapter <NUM>. In various embodiments, each port magnet post <NUM> can represent a socket magnet post. In one embodiment, ferromagnetic ring <NUM> is a permanent magnet. Nasal respiratory assembly <NUM> accordingly includes a pair of conduit adapters <NUM> with openings therethrough for fluid flow, a post end of each conduit adapter <NUM> including a post end socket <NUM>, each post end socket <NUM> shaped to receive the ball shaped receptacle <NUM> in a ball and socket arrangement to form a substantially airtight connection therewith. A connector end <NUM> of the conduit adapter cooperates with a channel opening <NUM> of a connector of a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine to form a substantially airtight connection therewith.

<FIG> illustrates a nasal connector <NUM> that includes a pair of channel openings <NUM> at a post end and an inlet such as vent coupling <NUM> at a vent end that is fluid communication with a flexible tubing connected to a fluid source. In some embodiments, as illustrated in <FIG>, for example, vent coupling <NUM> may be positioned on a side surface of the nasal connector <NUM> (as opposed to being provided on a bottom surface of the nasal connector). In various embodiments, nasal connector <NUM> of nasal respiratory assembly <NUM> can represent any generic nasal connector available in the market. As is common of most nasal connectors, nasal connector <NUM> can includes a pair of channel openings <NUM>. Connector end <NUM> of conduit adapter <NUM> is sized and shaped to cooperate with each channel opening <NUM> to form a substantially airtight connection therewith such that channel <NUM> of port magnet post <NUM> is aligned with channel opening <NUM> of nasal connector <NUM> through conduit adapter opening <NUM> , and an inlet such as vent coupling <NUM> at a vent end that is configured for fluid communication with a flexible tubing connected to a fluid source. In one embodiment, a vent such as vent <NUM> may be located between vent coupling <NUM> and the flexible tubing. Vent <NUM> can include vent receptacle <NUM> sized and shaped to cooperate with vent coupling <NUM> to form a substantially airtight connection therewith, and an inlet such as inlet <NUM> sized and shaped to cooperate with a flexible tubing to form a substantially airtight connection therewith.

<FIG> and <FIG> illustrate additional features of the nasal respiratory assembly, According to one or more embodiments, nasal respiratory assembly <NUM> includes a pair of sheets <NUM>, each sheet defining an opening <NUM> sized and shaped to fit over the nostril of a patient, with a ferromagnetic ring <NUM> (see <FIG>, for example) positioned at an underside of the sheet and circumferentially aligned with the opening, with an upper side of the sheet configured for sealable engagement with the nostril. Sheets <NUM> are configured to engage the nares (i.e., nostrils) of the patient. The nasal assembly also includes port magnet posts <NUM>. In some embodiments, one end of each port magnet post <NUM> is configured to removably attach to a ferromagnetic ring <NUM> on sheet <NUM> through the presence of a magnetic field; the other end of each port magnet post <NUM> is configured to engage an opening of nasal connector <NUM>.

As illustrated in <FIG>, each port magnet post <NUM> includes a magnetic ring <NUM> positioned at a first end and a ball shaped receptacle <NUM> positioned at a second end with a passageway extending from the first to the second ends, the magnetic ring <NUM> removably attachable to the ferromagnetic ring <NUM>. Ferromagnetic ring <NUM> can have a substantially flat major surface facing port magnet post <NUM>, as shown, for example, in <FIG>. Further, port magnet post <NUM> of nasal respiratory assembly <NUM> can include a ball shaped receptacle <NUM> that cooperates with post end socket <NUM> of conduit adapter. The ball shaped receptacle <NUM> is configured to pivotably move or rotate about an inner surface of post end socket <NUM> while still maintaining a substantially airtight connection therewith. Connector end <NUM> of conduit adapter <NUM> is configured to cooperate with channel opening <NUM> of nasal connector <NUM> (nasal connector can be any generic nasal connector available in the market). Ferromagnetic ring <NUM> having a substantially flat major surface can allow for a sliding movement of magnetic ring <NUM> across ferromagnetic ring <NUM> to enable a convenient disconnect mechanism. In one embodiment wherein ferromagnetic ring <NUM> is itself a permanent magnet (rather than ferromagnetic ring <NUM> being formed of a material that magnetic ring <NUM> attracts), the polarity of magnetic ring <NUM> exhibits a pull or push magnetic force against ferromagnetic ring <NUM> depending on the polarity of the corresponding ferromagnetic ring <NUM>. This pull or push force can be advantageously designed for the convenient connecting or disconnecting of ferromagnetic ring <NUM> to / from magnetic ring <NUM>.

Magnetic ring <NUM> removably attaches to the ferromagnetic ring <NUM> at an exit end of port magnet post <NUM>. In one embodiment, magnetic ring <NUM> is configured to move or rotate about the surface of ferromagnetic ring <NUM> while continuing to maintain a substantially airtight connection at the interface between magnetic ring <NUM> and ferromagnetic ring <NUM>. The ferromagnetic ring <NUM> can thus advantageously prevent or reduce the possibility of the nasal connector <NUM> from inadvertently getting dislodged when the wearer of the nasal respiratory assembly <NUM> moves the head either when awake or sleeping to thereby allowing for the continued supply of treatment gases to a patient's (or wearer's) nare under ideal pressure. In at least one embodiment, the ferromagnetic ring <NUM> can permit magnetic ring <NUM> to move or rotate about the surface of ferromagnetic ring <NUM> while continuing to maintain a substantially airtight connection therewith when the face of a patient wearing nasal respiratory assembly <NUM> is moved in a sudden jerky movement. In at least one embodiment, the ferromagnetic ring <NUM> can permit magnetic ring <NUM> to move or rotate about the surface of ferromagnetic ring <NUM> while continuing to maintain a substantially airtight connection therewith when the wearer's pillow contacts or applies a shearing force against a portion of the nasal respiratory assembly <NUM> or against the tubing supplying fluid to the nasal respiratory assembly <NUM>.

In an alternate embodiment, as shown, for example in <FIG>, port magnet post <NUM> includes an additional ball and socket arrangement <NUM> positioned directly below magnetic ring <NUM>, with ball and socket arrangement <NUM> being arranged between magnetic ring <NUM> and at or near an upper end (i.e., at a sheet <NUM> facing end) of post body <NUM>. The ball and socket arrangement <NUM> offers a pivoting head for magnetic ring <NUM> to receive the ferromagnetic ring <NUM> at different pitches and angles for nares that flare on the outside of the nose, with each ball and socket arrangement <NUM> providing for the respective magnetic ring <NUM> to pivot from angles <NUM>-<NUM> degrees relative to the upper end (i.e., at a sheet <NUM> facing end) of post body <NUM>. Accordingly, as a person of skill in the art would understand, the ball and socket arrangement <NUM> is configured to pivotably move or rotate about an inner surface of a suitable cooperating socket arrangement provided at or near the upper end of post body <NUM> while still maintaining a substantially airtight connection therewith. In other words, the ball and socket arrangement <NUM> operates similar to how ball shaped receptacle <NUM> that cooperates with channel opening <NUM> of nasal connector <NUM> in a ball and socket arrangement in nasal respiratory assembly <NUM>. The ball and socket arrangement <NUM> further operates similar to how ball shaped receptacle <NUM> that cooperates with an inner surface of post end socket <NUM> in a ball and socket arrangement.

In some embodiments, an upper surface of each port magnet post <NUM> may be angled to provide better fit with the sheet <NUM> attached to various nares. In various embodiments, the opening of the magnetic ring can have a round, oblong, oval or tear drop shape; the shape of the opening of the dome-shaped ring can accordingly compliment the shape of an opening of the magnetic ring.

<FIG> illustrates a vent that can form part of the nasal respiratory assembly. Nasal respiratory assembly <NUM> can accordingly further include at least one vent <NUM> for receiving treatment gases to the nasal cavity of a patient. One end of vent <NUM> can have an inlet <NUM> configured for connecting to a fluid source (not shown) via a fluid tubing that provides the respiratory gas, while vent receptacle <NUM> located at the other end of vent <NUM> engages vent coupling <NUM> of nasal connector <NUM>. Accordingly, nasal respiratory assembly <NUM> can include one or more vents <NUM> positioned proximal to where fluid flow occurs. It should be appreciated that vent <NUM> can be positioned at any desired location and are not limited to the locations illustrated herein. In some embodiments, vent <NUM> can include a socket including a further adapter. The further adapter can be constructed in any desired shape to allow connection with a flexible tube or tubing. In such embodiments, the outer diameter of the adapter is greater than the inner diameter of the tube or tubing. In this way, the further adapter is held within the tubing for a desired amount of time, and cannot be accidentally unlodged by the patient, such as during sleep. However, the adapter can be releasably connected to the tubing using any known mechanism. Accordingly, in various embodiments, an inlet at a vent end of the connector is in fluid communication with a flexible tubing connected to a fluid source. Further, the connector can be part of a generic off-the-shelf continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine. Furthermore, the fluid can be supplied from a high flow generator, a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine, a fluid tank, or a humidifier. However, it is to be noted that, besides channel openings <NUM>, it is not a requirement that the other elements of the nasal respiratory assembly <NUM> upstream of channel openings <NUM> as mentioned above (i.e., all elements between channel openings <NUM> and the fluid source as mentioned above) be arranged in the manner described above for the invention to operate as intended. In other words, beyond two channel openings <NUM>, the remaining elements of nasal respiratory assembly <NUM> upstream of channel openings <NUM> may have any suitable or desirable configuration(s).

In some embodiments, the fluid source can be a high flow generator, a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine, a fluid tank, a humidifier, or any other fluid source known or used in the art. The term "fluid" as used herein refers to any gas, mixture of gases, or gas with medication (such as an aerosol medication) suitable for delivery to the airway of a human. As illustrated in <FIG>, for example, a flexible tubing can couple with inlet <NUM> to supply the fluid from the fluid source, the tubing can include any known flexible tubing. The term "tubing" as used herein refers to any conduit, a delivery conduit, a tube, pipe, passage, or channel through which fluid flows. The term "flexible" as used herein refers to any tubing that is able to flex or bend and that is compliant and will readily conform to the general shape and contours of the human body. In some embodiments, the tubing can be constructed from medical grade materials, such as (but not limited to) polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride, polyamide, polyester, polyolefin, silicone, fluoropolymer, and combinations or copolymers thereof. The tubing is flexible, resilient, and hollow. In some embodiments, the tubing can have an inner diameter of between about <NUM>-<NUM>, although tubing with larger or smaller diameters can be used. For example, the inner diameter of the tubing can be increased or decreased to adjust for a particular wearer's preferences and/or needs. In some embodiments, during use, tubing can be hooked over the ears of a patient and can be brought up under the chin during use.

<FIG> illustrates a port magnet post and a conduit adapter according to at least one embodiment. In various embodiments, each port magnet post <NUM> includes a magnetic ring <NUM> (e.g. in the form of a magnetic ring as shown in <FIG>) positioned at a first end and a ball shaped receptacle <NUM> positioned at a second end with a passageway extending from the first to the second ends. Magnetic ring <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> removably attaches to the ferromagnetic ring <NUM> at exit end <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate some alternate components of nasal respiratory assembly <NUM> according to one or more embodiments of the currently disclosed subject matter. Sheet <NUM> (illustrated in <FIG>, for example) can be configured to a dome-shaped ferromagnetic ring <NUM>. In some embodiments, socket magnet posts <NUM> are configured as nasal prongs (see magnet socket <NUM> in <FIG>) that extend towards and make contact with dome-shaped ferromagnetic rings <NUM> of sheets <NUM> via magnet rings <NUM>. Sheets <NUM> are configured for attaching to the nostrils of a wearer such that fluid received at inlet <NUM> is delivered into the nostrils of the wearer via the respective opening <NUM> in sheets <NUM>.

In at least one embodiment, dome-shaped ferromagnetic ring <NUM> is made an integral component of sheet <NUM> (as illustrated in <FIG>, for example) such that the openings of dome-shaped ferromagnetic ring <NUM> is aligned with the respecting openings <NUM> of sheets <NUM>. An underside of sheet <NUM> accordingly includes the dome-shaped ferromagnetic ring <NUM> that cooperates with magnetic ring <NUM> to provide a continuous conduit such that fluid received at an inlet <NUM> is delivered into the nostrils of the wearer via the respective opening in sheet <NUM>. When magnetic ring <NUM> is detachably attached to dome-shaped ferromagnetic ring <NUM> of sheet <NUM>, the upper end of each socket magnet post <NUM>, i.e., exit ends <NUM>, are in fluid communication with the interior of the nostrils of the wearer, whereas receptacles <NUM> found at lower end of socket magnet post <NUM> are in fluid communication with the interior opening of conduit adapter <NUM>. The interior opening of conduit adapter <NUM>, in turn, is in fluid connection with a nasal connector such that respiratory fluid flows from exit end <NUM> (i.e., upper post opening) of each socket magnet post <NUM> and through opening <NUM> of each sheet <NUM> and into the interior of the nostrils of the wearer. Thus, each socket magnet post <NUM> and an associated conduit adapter <NUM> comprises a unique pathway for conveying fluid from a fluid source to the nasal passage of the patient.

In various embodiments, socket magnet posts <NUM> can have various cross-sections, such as a circular, oval or rectangular in cross-section, with opening <NUM> having a shape that compliments the cross-section of socket magnet posts <NUM>. Each magnet ring <NUM> of socket magnet post <NUM> is configured to engage with dome-shaped ferromagnetic ring <NUM> of sheets <NUM>, the sheets <NUM> in turn being configured to engage the nostrils of the patient. The nare facing side of each sheet <NUM> can be configured for providing a flush, sealable engagement with the patient's nares. Each sheet <NUM> directly contacts the exterior of a patient's nostril or the skin surrounding the patient's nostril. As shown, the interior of socket magnet post <NUM> includes post channel <NUM> passing through the entire length thereof to allow fluid flow to the nasal cavity of the patient.

As shown in <FIG>, an upper end of each socket magnet post <NUM> includes a magnet socket <NUM> configured to house a magnet such as magnetic ring <NUM>. Socket magnet post <NUM> further includes post body <NUM>, a receptacle <NUM> and a post channel <NUM>. In some embodiments, socket magnet posts <NUM> are parallel or about parallel to each other when the nasal respiratory assembly is installed on a person. While magnetic ring <NUM> is shown to be ring shaped, other shapes are possible without deviating from the scope of the appended claims. similarly, dome-shaped ferromagnetic ring <NUM> (see <FIG>, for example) too may take other shapes such that any shape taken by dome-shaped ferromagnetic ring <NUM> compliments or matches the shape of magnetic ring <NUM>. In various embodiments, dome-shaped ferromagnetic ring <NUM> is made of a ferromagnetic material such that it is attracted by the magnetic field of magnetic ring <NUM> so as to form a substantially airtight bond or attachment therewith.

Accordingly, in some embodiments, the nasal respiratory assembly can include a pair of sheets, each sheet defining an opening sized and shaped to fit over a nostril of a patient, with a dome-shaped ferromagnetic ring <NUM> positioned at an underside of the sheet and circumferentially aligned with the opening, with an upper side of the sheet configured for sealable engagement with the nostril. A pair of socket magnet posts <NUM>, each socket magnet post <NUM> including a magnetic ring <NUM> positioned at a first end and a receptacle <NUM> positioned at a second end with a passageway extending from the first to the second ends, the magnetic ring <NUM> removably attachable to the dome-shaped ferromagnetic ring <NUM>. A pair of conduit adapters <NUM> with openings therethrough for fluid flow, a post end socket127 of each conduit adapter <NUM> including a socket (not shown), each socket shaped to receive a receptacle <NUM> in an interference fit to form a substantially airtight connection therewith. A connector end <NUM> of the conduit adapter cooperates with a channel opening <NUM> of a connector of a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine to form a substantially airtight connection therewith.

In some embodiments, each sheet <NUM> engages with or includes one or more flexible adhesive sheets (not shown) to provide sealable engagement with the patient's nostrils. Sheet can be constructed from any known material, including (but not limited to) woven fabric, plastic, and/or latex. For example, in some embodiments, sheet can be constructed from PVC, polyethylene, polyurethane, latex, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, sheet can be a foam medical tape, a surgical tape, and/or a hypoallergenic tape. The patient contacting surface of sheet <NUM> can include an adhesive. The adhesive can be any medically safe adhesive known or used in the art. For example, the adhesive can be selected from one or more acrylates (such as methacrylate, alkyl acrylate, or epoxy diacrylate), acrylic acids, polyvinyl chloride, alkyl esters, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the adhesive is a pressure-sensitive adhesive such that the sheet can be adhered and removed from the patient's skin as desired. The adhesive can be selected to show mild or no irritation to the skin when used daily. In some embodiments, the adhesive tape can be configured as a hydrocolloid tape and/or can include a polyurethane reactive layer that adheres more to the nostril as the patient's body temperature warms up the adhesive. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the adhesive can be directly applied to the patient's nostril or the nasal engaging portion to provide a removeable connection (e.g., no sheet is used).

In various embodiments, the ferromagnetic ring may or may not have a dome shape. In some embodiments, the upper surface of socket magnet post <NUM> may angled. In some embodiments, magnet socket <NUM> positioned about a first end of socket magnet post <NUM> (e.g., an upper surface of socket magnet post <NUM>) can be angled in relation to the body of socket magnet post <NUM> to allow for enhanced attachment to dome-shaped ferromagnetic ring <NUM> of sheet <NUM> for better positioning on a patient's nostrils. In some embodiments, the angle can be between about <NUM>-<NUM> degrees, such as about <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> degrees. For example, in some embodiments, a plane parallel to a circumference, a perimeter, or a largest dimension of the magnet socket <NUM> can be configured to make an angle of about <NUM>-<NUM> degrees with a plane that is perpendicular to a vertical axis passing through the center of a bottom portion of the channel provided by port magnet post <NUM> that is closest to the channel openings of the nasal connector <NUM>. As another example, in some embodiments, a plane parallel to a circumference, a perimeter, or a largest dimension of the magnet socket <NUM> can be configured to make an angle of about <NUM>-<NUM> degrees with a major lateral plane that is perpendicular to a vertical axis passing through the center of the opening provided on vent <NUM>. In some embodiments, the angle can be created by having a portion of the post body bulge outwards at an angle. In some embodiments, the angle can be created by modifying one or more components of nasal connector <NUM>, including the area directly beneath the channel opening of socket magnet post <NUM>. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the body of socket magnet post <NUM> can remain substantially cylindrical, having a top portion cut at an angle. The body of socket magnet post <NUM> houses a channel within its interior to allow the flow of fluid to the nasal cavity of the patient. In some embodiments, the body can have a circular, oval, or square cross-sectional shape. However, the shape of the body is not limited and can be configured in any desired shape. Further, the channel of socket magnet post <NUM> can have any desired cross-sectional shape, such as square, triangular, circular, oval, and the like. According to one or more embodiments, an upper surface of the magnetic ring is angled. In such embodiments, the magnetic ring can have different thicknesses in different regions of the magnetic ring. In some embodiments, the angle can be created by modifying one or more components of conduit adapter <NUM>, including the area directly beneath (i.e., upstream of) post end socket <NUM>.

Post body <NUM> houses post channel <NUM> within its interior to allow the flow of fluid to the nasal cavity of the patient. In some embodiments, post body <NUM> can have a circular, oval or square cross-sectional shape. However, the shape of post body <NUM> is not limited and can be configured in any desired shape. Further, post channel <NUM> can have any desired cross-sectional shape, such as square, triangular, circular, oval, and the like. Magnet socket <NUM>, magnetic ring <NUM> and opening <NUM> too can take various cross-sectional shapes. According to one or more embodiments, an upper surface of the magnetic ring is angled. In such embodiments, the magnetic ring can have different thicknesses in different regions of the magnetic ring.

The channel openings <NUM> of nasal respiratory assembly <NUM> in general, and of nasal connector <NUM> in particular, can be configured as sockets that releasably connect with connector end <NUM> of conduit adapter <NUM>. Each such socket can include one or more releases for engaging and disengaging the connector end <NUM> in the form of a snap-on connector, for example. The releases can be in the form of any of the wide variety of connection mechanisms known or used in the art, including (but not limited to) snap fit, screw fit, friction fit, magnetic attraction, and the like. For example, in some embodiments, the release can be configured as one or more arms that extend from a collar end of the socket. The arms can be constructed at an angle to provide leverage when pivoting the arm, thereby enabling socket collar to be deformed away from the post positioned in a recess for easy release.

In some further embodiments, an inner portion of the space between an outer perimeter of the ferromagnetic ring <NUM> and the inner contour of the sheet <NUM> (i.e., the portion contiguous to the outer perimeter of the ferromagnetic ring <NUM>; alternately referred to as the "inner slender portion") can include a slender, loose, extremely flexible, and forgiving thin-layer of silicone that is configured to bounce in an out relative to the slip ring or relative to the ferromagnetic ring to help accommodate movements initiated by the patient during use of the nasal respiratory assembly to reduce torque. In the same embodiments, another portion of the space between an outer perimeter of the ferromagnetic ring and the inner contour of the sheet <NUM> can include a silicon layer that is less slender, less flexible and thicker relative to the portion that is contiguous to the outer perimeter of the about noted inner slender portion. Such an arrangement can help further increase the comfort level for the patient wearing nasal respiratory assembly by reducing or eliminating the torque that may otherwise be felt at the nose of the patient of the assembly during use of the assembly by the patient.

As shown in <FIG>, the upper end of socket magnet post <NUM> can include a magnet socket <NUM> configured to house a magnet such as magnetic ring <NUM>. Socket magnet posts <NUM> can further include post body <NUM>, receptacle <NUM> and post channel <NUM>. In some embodiments, the socket magnet posts <NUM> are parallel or about parallel to each other. While magnetic ring <NUM> is shown to be ring shaped, other shapes are possible without deviating from the scope ot the appended claims; similarly, dome-shaped ferromagnetic ring <NUM> may take other shapes such that any shape taken by dome-shaped ferromagnetic ring <NUM> compliments the shape of magnetic ring <NUM>. In various embodiments, the dome-shaped ring is made of a ferromagnetic material such that it is attracted by the magnetic field of magnetic ring <NUM>.

Receptacle <NUM> of socket magnet post <NUM> is configured on a second post end for engaging post end socket <NUM> of conduit adapter <NUM>. In some embodiments, receptacle <NUM> can comprise a tapered ridge. In some embodiments, post end socket <NUM> can be shaped to compliment the tapered ridge of receptacle <NUM>. However, the shape of receptacle <NUM> is not limited, and can be constructed to enable insertion of an end thereof into post end socket <NUM> or otherwise enable connection of an end thereof with post end socket <NUM> of conduit adapter. In some embodiments, receptacle <NUM> can be configured to selectively engage a receiving portion of post end socket <NUM>. The engagement of the receptacle with the post end socket can be achieved using a number of different structural configurations. For example, receptacle <NUM> can be a circumferentially extending portion for selectively engaging a respective recess-receiving portion of the post end socket <NUM>. Alternatively, the receptacle can be a ball joint and the receiving portion can be a tube socket.

In some embodiments, port magnet post <NUM> and/or socket magnet post <NUM> can include one or more vents in communication with post channel <NUM> to ensure that the patient's ability to breathe is not hampered, and to ensure excess fluid has an outlet. The vents can be sized and shaped in any desired configuration and can be positioned proximal to any of the regions where fluid flow occurs. Thus, the vents can be positioned on the flange, body, and/or connector of the post. The vents can vary in size and location such that manipulation of all exhaled fluids (e.g., CO<NUM>) is controlled and titratable to alter the flow rate to a desired setting. In some embodiments, the vents can include polymeric fibers, membranes, and/or webs with an extremely small thickness (e.g., from nanoscale to microscale).

Socket magnet post <NUM> (as well as port magnet post <NUM>) can be constructed from any desired material. For example, the post can be constructed from rubber, silicone polymers, acrylate polymers, or combinations thereof. It should be appreciated that the materials used to construct post are not limited to the materials cited herein above. Socket magnet post <NUM> can be attached to the exterior portion of each patient nostril by affixing sheets <NUM> directly to the skin surrounding the nostril, and then attaching magnetic ring <NUM> to dome-shaped ferromagnetic ring <NUM>. In this arrangement, post channel <NUM> is positioned in line with the nostril opening. In some embodiments, a further sheet comprising an adhesive can be used can be used to attach the sheet to the nostril. Thus, the adhesive side of the further sheet can be used to adhere sheet <NUM> to the skin of the patient. Alternatively, the adhesive can be directly applied to the patient's skin (e.g., the area surrounding the nostril). The post along with sheet <NUM> can be configured for providing a flush, sealable engagement with the patient's nostril. After a post has been affixed to the exterior portion of each of the patient's nostrils, channel opening <NUM> of nasal connector <NUM> can be translated towards post channel <NUM> at the second end of the post. Open exit ends <NUM> (gas-flow end) of the post is in a substantially airtight attachments with dome-shaped ferromagnetic ring <NUM>. Fluid flows from the tubing, through the interior of the nasal connector, through the interior of conduit adapter <NUM>, through the interior of socket magnet post <NUM>, exits the socket magnet post <NUM> via exit end <NUM>, and flows into the patient's nasal passages.

In use, sheet <NUM> can be attached to the exterior portion of each nostril by affixing sheet <NUM> directly to the skin surrounding the nostril, as set forth in detail herein above. Socket magnet post <NUM> in connected arrangement with a fluid source via tubing is then translated towards the sheet such that magnetic ring <NUM> attaches to dome-shaped ferromagnetic ring <NUM> of sheet <NUM>. When a user desires to uncouple the post and sheet, magnetic ring <NUM> can be detached from dome-shaped ferromagnetic ring <NUM> by gently pulling one or more of the nasal connector, the tubing, the socket magnet post, and the vent away from the nostrils. In one embodiment, dome-shaped ferromagnetic ring <NUM> is itself a permanent magnet (rather than dome-shaped ferromagnetic ring <NUM> being formed of a material that magnet ring <NUM> attracts). Dome-shaped ferromagnetic ring <NUM> itself being a permanent magnet can advantageously operate to improve the bond between dome-shaped ferromagnetic ring <NUM> and magnet ring <NUM> in one implementation.

The remaining components of the nasal assembly including socket magnet post <NUM> may be substantially similar to or identical to the respective components of nasal respiratory assembly <NUM>, with the components of the nasal assembly labeled with numerals that include a 100th place prefix "<NUM>" added to the respective components of nasal respiratory assembly <NUM>. For example, magnetic ring <NUM> of the nasal assembly including socket magnet post <NUM> can be substantially similar or identical features as magnetic ring <NUM> of nasal respiratory assembly <NUM>. As another example, vent coupling <NUM> of the nasal assembly including socket magnet post <NUM> can be substantially similar or identical features as vent coupling <NUM> of nasal respiratory assembly <NUM>, and so on. Accordingly, nasal assembly including socket magnet post <NUM> and its various components including opening <NUM>, magnet socket <NUM>, sheet <NUM>, post channel <NUM>, socket magnet post <NUM> can have similar or identical features as the respective components of nasal respiratory assembly <NUM> arrived by replacing the 100th place prefix "<NUM>" with prefix "<NUM>" in the corresponding component of nasal respiratory assembly <NUM>, except as otherwise explained herein.

The respiratory assembly disclosed herein has a wide variety of applications. For example, in some embodiments, the assembly can be used for high flow delivery of respirator gas via nasal assembly. In some embodiments, the air can be heated to near body temperature (e.g., about <NUM>) and/or humidified (e.g., about <NUM>% relative humidity) to decrease airway moisture loss, airway cooling, nasal irritation, and the like. In high flow therapy, the source of oxygen is typically blended with compressed air, allowing the delivery of air, blends of air and oxygen from about <NUM>% to about <NUM>%, or delivery of <NUM>% oxygen with the use of an oxygen blender. Advantageously, the disclosed assembly includes tubing large enough to deliver flow rate of respiratory gas of up to about <NUM> liters per minute for adults. The nasal assembly and its components are also small enough to prevent sealing of the nares, allowing flow during exhalation and allowing the escape of excess gas during inhalation. Beneficially, because the delivered flow rate can meet the inspiration flow rate, the delivered gases are not diluted by room air.

Alternatively, or in addition, the disclosed respiratory assembly can be used with a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine. CPAP machines typically apply mild air pressure on a continuous basis to keep a patient's airway continuously open. As a result, CPAP machines used in conjunction with a patient's stent can advantageously cause the lungs' alveoli to open and thus recruit more of the lung's surface area for ventilation. CPAP machines are generally used for people with breathing problems, such as sleep apnea. Alternatively, CPAP machines can be used to treat pre-term infants whose lungs have not yet fully developed. In some embodiments, the disclosed assembly can be used as a replacement for traditional CPAP masks.

The disclosed respiratory assembly can further be used in pressure recording applications in clinical settings, such as to diagnose sleep apnea or other disorders. Particularly, sleep apnea can be diagnosed based on characteristic clinical features associated with episodes of cessation of breathing that define hypopnoeic and apnoeic events. The disclosed device can be used to measure nasal pressure by measuring nasal pressure with nasal prongs connected to a pressure transducer.

The disclosed assembly can further be used with a fluid tank, a humidifier, or any other fluid source known or used in the art. Advantageously, the disclosed assembly may eliminate over-the-ear soreness and lip soreness commonly found in traditional respiratory masks and cannula. In addition, the disclosed assembly may enable better control of gases (e.g., oxygen) during fluid delivery applications. In some embodiments, the disclosed assembly is strapless and maskless, thereby increasing using comfort. As a result, patients are more likely to follow doctor's orders and use the assembly. In addition, unsightly mask and strap skin indentations are eliminated. The disclosed assembly is less likely to be dislodged inadvertently by the patient, such as during movement or when being pressed against a pillow.

In some embodiments, the disclosed respiratory assembly includes a sanitizing enclosure that can be used to sanitize the reusable portions of the CPAP assembly. The term "sanitizing" as used herein refers to the elimination of all or nearly all microbial forms. The sanitizing enclosure can include an activated oxygen and/or UV light generator that is used to clean and/or sanitize the reusable CPAP elements. For example, in some embodiments, the generator can generate activated oxygen to sanitize the contents of interior of the enclosure and the reusable CPAP system Activated oxygen (also known as O<NUM> or ozone) is a safe, naturally-occurring gas that has been shown to kill virtually all known forms of viruses in water and air. Particularly, activated oxygen has been shown to interfere with the metabolism of bacterium cells, likely through inhibiting and blocking the operation of the enzymatic control system. A sufficient amount of activated oxygen breaks through the cell membrane, leading to destruction of the bacteria. Activated oxygen destroys viruses by diffusing through the protein coat into the nucleic acid core, resulting in damage to the viral RNA. At higher concentrations, activated oxygen destroys the viral capsid by oxidation to affect the DNA or RNA structure. Activated oxygen has been shown to be effective in destroying dozens of harmful pathogens, including E. coli, influenza virus, Staphlococus, Streptococcus bacteria, Stomatitis virus, and many more.

In some embodiments, the generator can produce activated oxygen in a concentration of about <NUM>-<NUM> ppm (parts per million) within the interior and/or within the disclosed system. In some embodiments, the generator can produce UV light to sanitize the contents of the interior of the enclosure and the associated CPAP equipment. To this end, the generator can include one or more ultraviolet lights that can be activated for a pre-set time period. UV light is highly effective at deactivating microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, yeasts, and molds. In some embodiments, the UV light is in the range of about <NUM>-<NUM> nanometers which is known to damage the DNA molecules in bacteria, viruses, molds, yeasts, and other microorganisms, preventing them from replicating and causing harm.

The sanitizing enclosure can kill about <NUM>% of mold, bacteria, and viruses in the CPAP user's sockets (or mask), tubing, humidifier, and CPAP chamber. In addition to being highly effective, the sanitizing enclosure is designed for ease of use. Users simply place their sockets or mask in the sanitizing enclosure, close the lid, and walk away. Importantly, no disassembly of the CPAP apparatus is required prior to start of the sanitizing process. Advantageously, the sanitizing enclosure can be used daily. In one embodiment, the sanitizing enclosure is configured to support several sanitization cycles to be carried out per day. The enclosure can be configured in any desired shape, such as circular, oval, square, triangular, oval, hexagonal, pentagonal, star, abstract, and the like. The enclosure can be configured in any desired size. In some embodiments, the enclosure can have a relatively small size, compared to the size of the CPAP assembly. For example, the enclosure can have a height, width, and depth of less than about <NUM> inches, such as no more than about <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> inches. However, the enclosure can have any desired size to accommodate a particular CPAP element within its interior.

In various embodiments, the fluid source connected to tubing <NUM> (see <FIG>) can comprise a high flow oxygen (HFO) source, and the nasal respiratory assembly <NUM> and other components of the assembly as described herein can be used in combination with, or comprise one or more attributes of, a high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC). Accordingly, in various embodiments, the various nasal respiratory assemblies as described herein are configured to operate in conjunction with a HFNC system designed to deliver air flow that has been humidified such as, for example, the equipment manufactured by Salter Labs (Adult High Flow Cannula 1600HF with an effective delivery of oxygen flows up to <NUM> LPM), Vapotherm (2000i High Flow Therapy system with a flow range up to <NUM> LPM with <NUM>% to <NUM>% relative humidity and a temperature range of <NUM>° to <NUM>), Teleflex (Comfort Flo Humidification System with flow rates up to <NUM> LPM), and Fisher & Paykel Healthcare (Optiflow™ and AIRVO™ <NUM> devices, both of which can deliver flow rates of up to <NUM>/min).

As is well-known in the relevant art, an HFO system can deliver a high-flow air/oxygen blend through a nasal respiratory assembly such as nasal respiratory assembly105, for example, thereby providing an alternative to other forms of ventilation. By providing flow rates of up to <NUM> LPM, high molecular humidity, and precise oxygen delivery, an HFO system can reduce the need for noninvasive ventilation and intubation in selected patient populations. The utilization of HFO therapy via a HFNC in appropriate patients can improve oxygenation, decrease the patient's work of breathing, and serve as an alternative to more invasive forms of treatment, such as mechanical ventilation. Most of the benefits from the HFNC, besides heating and humidification come from the optimal flow. HFNC provides for a continuous flow of fresh gas at high flow rates replacing or washing out the patient's pharyngeal dead-space (the old gas low in oxygen and high in CO<NUM>) whereby each breath that the patient now re-breathes will be washed out of carbon dioxide and replaced with oxygen rich gas improving breathing efficiency.

An HFO system can consist of a heated, humidified high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) that can deliver up to <NUM>% heated and humidified oxygen at a maximum flow of <NUM> LPM via nasal prongs or cannula. An air/oxygen blender can provide precise oxygen delivery independent of the patient's inspiratory flow demands. An HFO system can be utilized in a wide spectrum of patient care arenas; it can be administered to patient populations in critical care units, emergency departments, end-of-life scenarios, and in-home care environments. Improving gas exchange and decreasing work of breathing are clinical endpoints when managing patients with respiratory compromise. An HFO system can provide accurate oxygen delivery in a wide array of patient populations and treatment arenas, including when treating patients with mild to moderate hypoxemia. HFO therapy in appropriate patients can improve oxygenation and can decrease the patient's work of breathing without the need for noninvasive or invasive ventilation. In addition, it may reduce the duration of ICU stay in some patients. Humidified HFNC oxygen therapy can provide adequate oxygenation for many patients with hypoxemic respiratory failure and may be an alternative to NIV for patients who decline intubation. High-flow oxygen administration can also be utilized in the end-of-life clinical arena.

Heated and humidified oxygen has several benefits compared to standard oxygen therapy. Standard oxygen therapy delivered through a nasal cannula or another device, such as a non-rebreather mask (NRBM), delivers cold (not warmed) and dry (not humidified) gas. This cold, dry gas can lead to airway inflammation, increase airway resistance, and impair mucociliary function, possibly impairing secretion clearance. Also, a significant amount of energy is expended by individuals to both warm and humidify gas during normal breathing. Thus, heated, and humidified oxygen may improve secretion clearance, decrease airway inflammation, and decrease energy expenditure, particularly in the setting of acute respiratory failure. The use of the heated and humidified high-flow nasal cannula that is combined with an assembly as described herein can be advantageously used in the treatment of patients with respiratory failure through all age groups. In one example, the heat and humidified high-flow nasal cannula or high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) can heat gas up to <NUM> with a <NUM>% relative humidity, and can deliver <NUM> - <NUM>% fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO<NUM>) at flow rates of up to <NUM> liters (L)/min. The flow rate and FiO<NUM> can be independently titrated based on a patient's flow and FiO<NUM> requirements. A key element for clinical use of nasal oxygen at s is accordingly its effective humidification.

Various embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter that includes a conduit adapter can be used in conjunction with a high flow oxygen (HFO) source and/or a high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC). Embodiments that include a HFO source and/or a HFNC can advantageously include various aspects of the disclosed subject matter as described earlier including socket magnet posts such as port magnet posts <NUM> wherein one end of each port magnet post <NUM> is configured to removably attach to a ferromagnetic ring <NUM> on sheet <NUM> through the presence of a magnetic field. The other end of each port magnet post <NUM> can be configured to engage an opening of nasal connector <NUM>. In various embodiments that include an HFO source and/or a HFNC, each port magnet post <NUM> can include a magnet (e.g. in the form of a magnetic ring <NUM> as shown in <FIG>) positioned at exit end <NUM> and a ball shaped receptacle <NUM> positioned at a second end with a passageway extending from the first to the second ends. The ball shaped receptacle engages post end socket <NUM> of conduit adapter <NUM>. The magnetic ring <NUM> can removably attach to the ferromagnetic ring <NUM> (see <FIG>) at exit end <NUM>. In one embodiment that includes an HFO source and/or a HFNC, magnetic ring <NUM> can be configured to pivotably move or rotate about the surface of dome-shaped ferromagnetic ring <NUM> in a ball and socket arrangement while continuing to maintain a substantially airtight connection at the interface between magnetic ring <NUM> and dome-shaped ferromagnetic ring <NUM>.

In some embodiments that include an HFO source and/or a HFNC, the upper end of each port magnet post <NUM> can include a magnet socket <NUM> configured to house a magnet such as magnetic ring <NUM> (see <FIG>, for example). In some embodiments that include an HFO source, as shown in <FIG>, an underside of sheet <NUM> can include dome-shaped ferromagnetic ring <NUM> that cooperates with magnetic ring <NUM> to provide a continuous conduit such that fluid received from an HFO source at post channel <NUM> is delivered into the nostrils of the wearer via the respective opening in sheet <NUM>. When magnetic ring <NUM> is detachably attached to dome-shaped ferromagnetic ring <NUM> of sheet <NUM>, the upper end of each port magnet post <NUM>, i.e., exit ends <NUM>, is in fluid communication with the interior of the nostrils of the wearer. The lower ends of port magnet post <NUM> are in fluid communication with the interior of conduit adapter <NUM>, and with the interior of nasal connector <NUM> such that respiratory fluid flows from exit end <NUM> (i.e., upper post opening) of each port magnet post <NUM> and through opening <NUM> of each sheet <NUM> and into the interior of the nostrils of the wearer. Thus, each post comprises a unique pathway for conveying fluid from a fluid source (for example, an HFO source with or without a HFNC) to the nasal passage of the patient. Magnet socket <NUM> is positioned about a first end of the post. In some embodiments that include an HFO source and/or a HFNC, magnet socket <NUM> (i.e., an upper surface of the post) can be angled in relation to post body <NUM> to allow for enhanced attachment to dome-shaped ferromagnetic ring <NUM> of sheet <NUM> for better positioning on the patient's nostrils. Magnet socket <NUM>, magnetic ring <NUM> and opening <NUM> provided on sheet <NUM> too can take various cross-sectional shapes. According to one or more embodiments that include an HFO source and/or a HFNC, an upper surface of the magnetic ring is angled. In such embodiments that include an HFO source and/or a HFNC, the magnetic ring can have different thicknesses in different regions of the magnetic ring.

Claim 1:
A nasal respiratory assembly (<NUM>) comprising:
a pair of sheets (<NUM>), each sheet (<NUM>) defining an opening (<NUM>) sized and shaped to fit over a nostril of a patient, with a ferromagnetic ring (<NUM>) positioned at an underside of the sheet (<NUM>) and circumferentially aligned with the opening (<NUM>), with an upper side of the sheet (<NUM>) configured for sealable engagement with the nostril;
a pair of posts (<NUM>), each post (<NUM>) including a magnetic ring (<NUM>) positioned at a first end and a receptacle (<NUM>) positioned at a second end with a passageway extending from the first to the second ends, the magnetic ring (<NUM>) removably attachable to the ferromagnetic ring (<NUM>);
a pair of conduit adapters (<NUM>) defining openings therethrough for fluid flow, a post end of each conduit adapter (<NUM>) including a socket (<NUM>), each socket (<NUM>) shaped to receive the receptacle (<NUM>) in an interference fit to form a substantially airtight connection therewith;
wherein a connector end (<NUM>) of the conduit adapter (<NUM>) cooperates with a channel opening (<NUM>) of a connector (<NUM>) of a continuous positive airway pressure CPAP machine to form a substantially airtight connection therewith.