NZ629805B2 - Heating apparatus - Google Patents
Heating apparatus Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- NZ629805B2 NZ629805B2 NZ629805A NZ62980512A NZ629805B2 NZ 629805 B2 NZ629805 B2 NZ 629805B2 NZ 629805 A NZ629805 A NZ 629805A NZ 62980512 A NZ62980512 A NZ 62980512A NZ 629805 B2 NZ629805 B2 NZ 629805B2
- Authority
- NZ
- New Zealand
- Prior art keywords
- tub
- heating element
- lining
- container
- heating
- Prior art date
Links
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 96
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 39
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 13
- 210000001847 Jaw Anatomy 0.000 claims description 13
- 229920001296 polysiloxane Polymers 0.000 claims description 12
- 229910052751 metal Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 6
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 claims description 6
- -1 polybutylene terephthalate Polymers 0.000 claims description 4
- 229920000049 Carbon (fiber) Polymers 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000004917 carbon fiber Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000011888 foil Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000011810 insulating material Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 229920003229 poly(methyl methacrylate) Polymers 0.000 claims description 2
- 229920003223 poly(pyromellitimide-1,4-diphenyl ether) Polymers 0.000 claims description 2
- 229920001707 polybutylene terephthalate Polymers 0.000 claims description 2
- 229920000515 polycarbonate Polymers 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000004417 polycarbonate Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000004926 polymethyl methacrylate Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 229920003288 polysulfone Polymers 0.000 claims 1
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 24
- 238000005516 engineering process Methods 0.000 description 15
- 239000010410 layer Substances 0.000 description 11
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 description 10
- 238000000465 moulding Methods 0.000 description 8
- 210000000088 Lip Anatomy 0.000 description 4
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 4
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 4
- 239000004020 conductor Substances 0.000 description 3
- 239000006260 foam Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 3
- 229920000642 polymer Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 239000011241 protective layer Substances 0.000 description 3
- 230000000241 respiratory Effects 0.000 description 3
- 229920002725 Thermoplastic elastomer Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 239000004411 aluminium Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229910052782 aluminium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N aluminum Chemical compound [Al] XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 230000000875 corresponding Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000010292 electrical insulation Methods 0.000 description 2
- 101700010476 lid-1 Proteins 0.000 description 2
- 239000011347 resin Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229920005989 resin Polymers 0.000 description 2
- GXMBHQRROXQUJS-UHFFFAOYSA-N (2-hept-2-ynylsulfanylphenyl) acetate Chemical compound CCCCC#CCSC1=CC=CC=C1OC(C)=O GXMBHQRROXQUJS-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- IISBACLAFKSPIT-UHFFFAOYSA-N Bisphenol A Chemical compound C=1C=C(O)C=CC=1C(C)(C)C1=CC=C(O)C=C1 IISBACLAFKSPIT-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 206010007559 Cardiac failure congestive Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 206010012601 Diabetes mellitus Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 101710028361 MARVELD2 Proteins 0.000 description 1
- 208000001022 Morbid Obesity Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 210000002445 Nipples Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 208000008589 Obesity Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 241001191345 Osa Species 0.000 description 1
- 229920002323 Silicone foam Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229910000831 Steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 229940035295 Ting Drugs 0.000 description 1
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000001070 adhesive Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000007681 bariatric surgery Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000560 biocompatible material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 150000001768 cations Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 201000006233 congestive heart failure Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 239000011889 copper foil Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000003247 decreasing Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000001627 detrimental Effects 0.000 description 1
- 201000010099 disease Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 238000001035 drying Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229920005570 flexible polymer Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000004907 flux Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000011796 hollow space material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000009413 insulation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000012212 insulator Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000003475 lamination Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000006011 modification reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229920001343 polytetrafluoroethylene Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 238000007639 printing Methods 0.000 description 1
- XUIMIQQOPSSXEZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N silicon Chemical compound [Si] XUIMIQQOPSSXEZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229910052710 silicon Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000010703 silicon Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910001220 stainless steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000010935 stainless steel Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000010959 steel Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000003860 storage Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000758 substrate Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000002699 waste material Substances 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M16/00—Devices for influencing the respiratory system of patients by gas treatment, e.g. mouth-to-mouth respiration; Tracheal tubes
- A61M16/10—Preparation of respiratory gases or vapours
- A61M16/1075—Preparation of respiratory gases or vapours by influencing the temperature
- A61M16/109—Preparation of respiratory gases or vapours by influencing the temperature the humidifying liquid or the beneficial agent
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M16/00—Devices for influencing the respiratory system of patients by gas treatment, e.g. mouth-to-mouth respiration; Tracheal tubes
- A61M16/10—Preparation of respiratory gases or vapours
- A61M16/14—Preparation of respiratory gases or vapours by mixing different fluids, one of them being in a liquid phase
- A61M16/16—Devices to humidify the respiration air
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M16/00—Devices for influencing the respiratory system of patients by gas treatment, e.g. mouth-to-mouth respiration; Tracheal tubes
- A61M16/10—Preparation of respiratory gases or vapours
- A61M16/14—Preparation of respiratory gases or vapours by mixing different fluids, one of them being in a liquid phase
- A61M16/16—Devices to humidify the respiration air
- A61M16/161—Devices to humidify the respiration air with means for measuring the humidity
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M2205/00—General characteristics of the apparatus
- A61M2205/02—General characteristics of the apparatus characterised by a particular materials
- A61M2205/0216—Materials providing elastic properties, e.g. for facilitating deformation and avoid breaking
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M2205/00—General characteristics of the apparatus
- A61M2205/02—General characteristics of the apparatus characterised by a particular materials
- A61M2205/0233—Conductive materials, e.g. antistatic coatings for spark prevention
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M2205/00—General characteristics of the apparatus
- A61M2205/02—General characteristics of the apparatus characterised by a particular materials
- A61M2205/0238—General characteristics of the apparatus characterised by a particular materials the material being a coating or protective layer
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M2205/00—General characteristics of the apparatus
- A61M2205/21—General characteristics of the apparatus insensitive to tilting or inclination, e.g. spill-over prevention
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M2205/00—General characteristics of the apparatus
- A61M2205/33—Controlling, regulating or measuring
- A61M2205/3331—Pressure; Flow
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M2205/00—General characteristics of the apparatus
- A61M2205/33—Controlling, regulating or measuring
- A61M2205/3368—Temperature
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M2205/00—General characteristics of the apparatus
- A61M2205/33—Controlling, regulating or measuring
- A61M2205/3379—Masses, volumes, levels of fluids in reservoirs, flow rates
- A61M2205/3389—Continuous level detection
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M2205/00—General characteristics of the apparatus
- A61M2205/36—General characteristics of the apparatus related to heating or cooling
- A61M2205/3633—General characteristics of the apparatus related to heating or cooling thermally insulated
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
- B29C45/00—Injection moulding, i.e. forcing the required volume of moulding material through a nozzle into a closed mould; Apparatus therefor
- B29C45/14—Injection moulding, i.e. forcing the required volume of moulding material through a nozzle into a closed mould; Apparatus therefor incorporating preformed parts or layers, e.g. injection moulding around inserts or for coating articles
- B29C45/14819—Injection moulding, i.e. forcing the required volume of moulding material through a nozzle into a closed mould; Apparatus therefor incorporating preformed parts or layers, e.g. injection moulding around inserts or for coating articles the inserts being completely encapsulated
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29K—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES B29B, B29C OR B29D, RELATING TO MOULDING MATERIALS OR TO MATERIALS FOR MOULDS, REINFORCEMENTS, FILLERS OR PREFORMED PARTS, e.g. INSERTS
- B29K2021/00—Use of unspecified rubbers as moulding material
- B29K2021/003—Thermoplastic elastomers
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29K—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES B29B, B29C OR B29D, RELATING TO MOULDING MATERIALS OR TO MATERIALS FOR MOULDS, REINFORCEMENTS, FILLERS OR PREFORMED PARTS, e.g. INSERTS
- B29K2101/00—Use of unspecified macromolecular compounds as moulding material
- B29K2101/12—Thermoplastic materials
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29L—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASS B29C, RELATING TO PARTICULAR ARTICLES
- B29L2031/00—Other particular articles
- B29L2031/34—Electrical apparatus, e.g. sparking plugs or parts thereof
- B29L2031/3481—Housings or casings incorporating or embedding electric or electronic elements
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F22—STEAM GENERATION
- F22B—METHODS OF STEAM GENERATION; STEAM BOILERS
- F22B1/00—Methods of steam generation characterised by form of heating method
- F22B1/28—Methods of steam generation characterised by form of heating method in boilers heated electrically
- F22B1/284—Methods of steam generation characterised by form of heating method in boilers heated electrically with water in reservoirs
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
- F24F6/00—Air-humidification, e.g. cooling by humidification
- F24F6/02—Air-humidification, e.g. cooling by humidification by evaporation of water in the air
- F24F6/08—Air-humidification, e.g. cooling by humidification by evaporation of water in the air using heated wet elements
- F24F6/10—Air-humidification, e.g. cooling by humidification by evaporation of water in the air using heated wet elements heated electrically
Abstract
tub for a humidifier comprising a container made of a first material, a heating element (6), and a lining (7) made of a second, preferably biocompatible, material different from the first material. The container comprises a base and a side wall (4b) defining a reservoir for a supply of liquid (13) to be evaporated. The heating element is provided on the base of the container. The lining covers the heating element and a substantial portion of the inner surface of the side wall of the container. to be evaporated. The heating element is provided on the base of the container. The lining covers the heating element and a substantial portion of the inner surface of the side wall of the container.
Description
JAWs ref: 505791/73
HEATING APPARATUS
The present ation generally relates to tubs for humidifiers and to s of
manufacturing tubs for humidifiers.
Humidifiers are generally used for a wide range of applications. An important application for
a humidifier is a atory apparatus which commonly uses devices to alter the humidity of
the breathable gas in order to reduce drying of the patient’s airway and consequent patient
discomfort and associated cations. Such humidifiers are either integrated with, or
configured to be coupled to, the respiratory apparatus.
Humidifiers typically comprise a water tub having a capacity of several hundred itres, a
heating element for heating the water in the tub, a control to enable the level of humidification
to be varied, a gas inlet to receive gas from the respiratory apparatus, and a gas outlet adapted
to be connected to a gas conduit that delivers the humidified, rized flow of breathable
gas to the patient’s mask. The water in the water tub is typically heated via thermal
tion between the heating element and the tub base of the water tub, which is commonly
formed of aluminium or stainless steel. On the one hand, good heat flux n the heating
element and the water within the water tub is desirable while on the other the electronics of
the heating element and the control should be properly ted from the water within the
water tub.
A1, the content of which is incorporated herein in its entirety, bes
inmolded heaters for heating fluids within containers which may be used in a respiratory
humidification device. A1 in particular discloses a humidifier comprising a
tub configured to contain a supply of water and a heater comprising a first polymer foam
having an ically conductive circuit provided upon a surface, wherein the first polymer
foam is electrically insulating and the tub is formed of molded resin and the heater is molded
at least partially within the resin. The heater is relatively rigidly secured and molded within
the humidifier tub.
It is an object of the invention to address the foregoing needs or at least to provide the public
with an useful choice.
JAWs ref: 505791/73
Preferred aspects of the invention are set forth in the appended claims. Particular
embodiments are described below in miting terms.
The present technology provides a tub for a humidifier. The tub comprises a container made
of a first material, a heating element, and a lining including a second, preferably
biocompatible, material different from the first material. The container comprises a base and a
sidewall defining a reservoir for a supply of liquid to be evaporated. The heating element may
be provided on the base of the container and the lining covers at least the heating element.
The heating element may be provided additionally or alternatively in other parts of the
container, such as on or in one or more side walls. The lining may also cover a substantial
portion of the inner surface of the sidewall of the container. Thus, the first material may be
chosen to be, e.g., iently stable and/or h resistant to provide a stable container. The
second material, on the other hand, may be chosen such as to provide a preferably c
lining which is d to electrically insulate the supply of water from the heating element
and at the same time accommodate any stress caused by thermal expansion of, e.g., the
heating element. In this context, the term “elastic” refers to being adaptable in allowing some
expansion and contraction of the al to sate for expansion and contraction of the
heating t in response to s in temperature. Furthermore, the first material may be
chosen to be substantially insulating to heat transport in order to reduce the energy used for
keeping the supply of liquid at a ermined temperature, while the second material may
be chosen to be a particularly good heat conductor in order to provide for effective heat
transport from the heating element to the supply of liquid.
Accordingly, the tub according to the present technology is advantageous over known tubs for
humidifiers in that the use of two different materials allows for a tub design which preferably
suits various demands. Furthermore, the tub according to the present technology may be
easily manufactured which allows for a cost efficient production process.
The lining may be molded, preferably injection-molded, over the heating element and
ally also over a substantial portion of the inner surface of the sidewall of the container.
This r eases the manufacturing and allows for t sealing avoiding any creep flow of
liquid between the first and second materials towards the heating element. However, other
ways to provide for a lining are also envisaged. For example, a nufactured lining may
be clamped into the inside of the container or may be attached to the heating element and the
JAWs ref: 505791/73
inner surface of the sidewall of the container by means of adhesive or any other fastening
systems.
In n embodiments the lining may be formed of a plurality of materials wherein at least a
portion of the lining is formed of the second material to cover the heater element. For
example the lining es a portion of the elastic or flexible second material covering the
heater element coupled with a different al, optionally the same as the first material, that
covers the remainder of the internal surface of the humidifier tub. Furthermore, the lining may
cover the heater element or the heater element and a substantial portion of the inner surface of
the container or humidifier tub. For example, the g element may be covered with a
lining made of silicone, preferably biocompatible silicone, whereas a portion of or essentially
the entire internal surface of the ner may be molded over with another, preferably
harder al.
According to another embodiment, the lining is formed entirely of the second material and
covers substantially the entire inner surface of the sidewall of the container. This further
improves the sealing since the transition region n the first and second materials is most
prone to leakage.
The second material may comprise silicone, a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), or other
thermally conductive flexible polymers. Even though the thermal conductivity of silicon e is
rather low, it may be easily injection-molded in a thin layer over the heating element and the
inner e of the sidewall of the container, thus providing ent electrical insulation
between the liquid within the reservoir and the heating element while still allowing for
sufficient heat transport from the heating element to the liquid. Furthermore, silicone is
biocompatible and sufficiently le to accommodate any stress caused by thermal
expansion.
If the second al is biocompatible, such as patible silicone, it may also serve as a
barrier against any substances in the first material that are not biocompatible such as
Bisphenol A. Thus, the use of a biocompatible second material for the lining allows for the
use of various materials for the container which, without such lining, could not be used.
JAWs ref: 505791/73
It is further preferred that the first material comprises, preferably consists of, one or a
combination of polycarbonate, lfone, polymethylmethacrylate, and polybutylene
terephthalate. While these als are known to be easily formable and suitable to provide
for a stable container, other als having similar properties may be used as well.
The lining preferably has a thickness between 0.5 mm and 5 mm, more red between 1
mm and 3 mm. A thin lining improves the heat transport while a thicker lining is more
durable.
Since the heating element is essentially surrounded by or sealed between the first and second
als, basically any known heating element may be used in the context of the t
technology. le g element s are, inter alia, printed foil heaters, silicone heaters,
carbon fiber heaters, etched metal heaters, Kapton heating elements and silicone heating
panels. Yet, basically any other known heating element may be used as long as it is
sufficiently small and provides sufficient energy to heat the supply of liquid to the required
temperature. In certain embodiments, the heating element may include the heating element
described in pending U.S. provisional application 61/6,286,622 incorporated herein in its
entirety.
ing to another embodiment, the heating element is coated with an insulating material
on at least one side, preferably the bottom side, in order to avoid excessive heat transport from
the g element towards the surrounding of the tub, i.e, to reduce energy waste. Suitable
materials are, e.g., silicone and/or silicone foam. However, other materials, in particular, other
foams, may be used. The heat insulating al may be complemented with or replaced with
a material which reflects thermal radiation, in particular infrared radiation. Thus, heat loss
towards the surrounding atmosphere is reduced. Alternatively, or in addition, heat loss may be
further decreased by providing a hollow space on one side of, preferably below, the heating
element. A particularly preferred embodiment combines a hollow, preferably vacuum, space
below the heating element with a tor for infrared radiation.
Preferably, the heating element comprises a plug or connector to ically connect to the
heating element. In one embodiment a plug or connector may comprise a tongue with
electrical contacts. rmore, the tub may comprise one of or different ations of a
temperature sensor, a pressure sensor, a humidity sensor, one or more LEDs, a thermal
JAWs ref: 505791/73
overload protection and/or means for sensing the level of the supply of liquid such as a
capacitive sensor for measuring the water level within the container or reservoir.
The container of the tub may be manufactured by any known means. However, it is preferred
to mold, preferably, injection-mold, the container. It is preferred that the tub further comprises
a support or supporting structure. The supporting structure preferably comprises one or more
of a metal sheet or plate, an aluminium sheet or plate, a (high grade) steel sheet or plate, a
lass sheet or plate, and/or a printed circuit board. The ting structure may increase
the stability of the tub and may in ular support and/or protect the heating element from
any impacts and/or from stress or strain occurring during the molding process. Preferably, the
supporting structure is integral with the heating element. For example, the heating element
may be ted to the supporting ure or the printed circuit board, which provides the
support structure, and also comprises the heating element.
In n ments, the tub further comprises a lid, wherein the lining provides a sealing
for the lid. For example, if the lining covers substantially the entire inner surface of the
ll of the container, the lid may have a protrusion which fits within the ll of the
container and engages the lining on the inner surface of the sidewall of the container.
Alternatively, or in addition, the lining may form a sealing lip at the top of the container in
order to provide a sealing for the lid.
The tub may further comprise a flow plate, wherein the lining provides a sealing for the flow
plate.
Further embodiments may be directed at a humidifier comprising a base station and a tub as
described above. The tub preferably can be removably attached to the base station. It is further
preferred that the base station comprises control electronics which can be removably
electrically connected to the heating element of the tub.
Further embodiments relate to a method of cturing a tub for a humidifier, preferably a
tub as described above. According to the inventive method, a tool for molding, preferably
ion-molding, a container is provided. A heating element is then oned inside or
within said tool and a container is molded, preferably injection-molded, around said heating
element. The container is made of a first material and comprises a base and a sidewall
JAWs ref: 505791/73
defining a reservoir for a supply of liquid to be evaporated, wherein the g t is
arranged on the base and/or sidewalls of the container. Optionally, a supporting structure
and/or a plug or connector is provided. Finally, a second, preferably biocompatible, material
different from the first material is molded, preferably injection-molded, over at least the
heating element and optionally a ntial portion of the inner surface of the sidewall of the
ner to provide a lining. In case a supporting structure and/or a plug or connector is
provided, the second material is also molded over the supporting structure and/or the plug or
connector, ably in such a way as to protect the plug and/or connector from water
without affecting or ng the electrical connections to the base station.
All advantageous and/or preferred features described above with respect to the tub may also
be employed for the inventive . In particular, the materials and dimensions mentioned
above with respect to the tub are also red for the inventive method.
ably, the heating element is preheated to a predetermined temperature before the step of
molding the first material. Preferably, the predetermined temperature is between 50° Celsius
and 200° Celsius, more preferred between 100° Celsius and 150° Celsius. Preferably, the
predetermined temperature is similar or even approximately equal to the molding tool. Thus,
the manufacturing process can be more precisely controlled and repeatability can be
improved. For example, if the heating element is much colder than the molding tool (e.g. due
to its storage) molding may be negatively affected. All the more so if the temperature of the
heating element varies from time to time. Keeping the heating element always at the same
controlled and predetermined temperature by preheating prevents such variations and possible
detrimental effects.
r details of the tub are described in Australian Provisional Application No.
2011902350, filed June 16, 2011, U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/628,622, filed
November 3, 2011 and file 15 June 2012, which are incorporated by
reference in its entirety. In particular, describes a g apparatus
ing a heating element which converts electrical power to heat energy, a heatable
element having a first e and a second surface, and a dielectric laminate layer between
the heating element and the first surface of the le element, wherein the dielectric
te layer is thermally conductive to transfer heat energy from the heating element to the
heatable t and wherein the second surface of the heatable element is configured to heat
JAWs ref: 505791/73
a liquid in a container. For e the heating apparatus may include a lamination of (i) a
thermally conductive material, e.g., a hot plate, a metal plate, a thermally conductive substrate
layer, (ii) a thermally conductive tric laminate layer, (iii) a heating element and (iv) a
protective layer. The dielectric laminate layer provides electrical insulation between the
heating element and hot plate to, for example, avoid ical short circuits between the
current flowing in the heating element and the hot plate. The heating element may be printed
on or otherwise applied to the laminate layer by tional printing techniques used in
Printed Circuit Board (PCB) cture and assembly. Alternatively, the heating element
may be applied as a sheet to the laminate layer and portions of the sheet etched away to form
the tracks of the heating t. The heating element may be a narrow strip of conductive
material, e.g., copper foil, arranged in a serpentine pattern.
Further s regarding the thermally conductive laminate layer are described in aphs
to , the heating element in paragraphs [0063] to [0065], the protective layer in
paragraphs [0066] to [0069], the electrical leads in paragraph [0070] and the contact pads in
paragraphs [0071] and [0072], all of which are incorporated by reference.
Preferred arrangements of a tub according to the present technology are further elucidated
with reference to the following Figures:
s 1 to 3 show perspective views of a tub according to an example of the present
technology comprising a tub base, a tub center and a tub cover.
Figure 4 shows a lly exploded view of the tub of Figure 1.
Figure 5 shows a perspective view of the tub base shown in Figures 1 to 4.
Figure 6 shows an exploded view of the tub base of Figure 5.
Figure 7 shows a schematic cross sectional view of a humidifier tub according to an example
of the present technology;
Figure 8 shows a schematic cross sectional view of a humidifier tub according to an example
of the present technology;
JAWs ref: 505791/73
Figure 9 shows another schematic cross nal view of a humidifier tub according to an
example of the present technology.
Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a tub module for a humidifier comprising a tub cover or
lid 1, a l portion 2 with a humidifier outlet 9 and a humidifier inlet 8, and a tub or tub
base 3, which is shown in more detail in the perspective view of Figure 5. The humidifier
outlet 9 may be, e.g., a conical hose nipple such as a 22 mm standard tor according to
ISO 5356-1. The humidifier inlet 8 preferably comprises an adapter having a sealing lip 10
(see Figure 3).
Preferably, the central portion 2 comprises a spillback protection. Spillback protection may,
e.g., be achieved by an intermediate plate or panel 12 (see Figure 4) comprising a through
hole 11 which is adapted to let air pass from the device via the humidifier inlet 8 to the water
reservoir or container(not shown). The air is humidified within said water reservoir before
being forwarded to the patient via humidifier outlet 9. If the entire tub module (or the
humidifier comprising said tub module) is being tilted, water within the water reservoir may
not flow back into the device because the intermediate plate or panel 12 functions as a barrier.
Preferably, the h hole 11 is provided at the side opposite the device / device interface in
order to improve spillback protection.
As may be taken from the exploded view of the tub or tub base 3 shown in Figure 6, the tub
comprises a container 4 made of a first material, a support or supporting structure 5, a heating
element 6, and a lining 7 made of a second, different material. The container 4 comprises a
base 4a and a sidewall 4b defining a reservoir for supply of liquid to be evaporated. The
heating t 6 of this arrangement is provided on the base 4a of the container with the
optional supporting structure 5 being arranged therebetween. Alternatively or in addition, a
heating element may be provided on another inner surface of the ner, e.g. on one or
more surfaces of inner sidewall 4b. The lining 7 covers the g element 6 and optionally
essentially the entire inner surface of the sidewall 4b of the container as shown in Figure 5.
As shown the heating element 6 may comprise a tongue with ical contacts 6a to
ically t to the heating element 6. While the supporting structure 5, which is
entirely optional, is shown in Figure 6 as a separate layer or element, it is preferred that
JAWs ref: 505791/73
supporting structure 5 is integral with the heating element 6. The supporting structure is
advantageous in that it may, e.g., protect the heating element during the molding process. In
the arrangement shown in Figure 5, the lining 7 covers essentially the entire inner surface of
the sidewall 4b of the container 4 and forms a sealing lip 7a at the top of the container 4. This
sealing lip 7a provides a sealing for the tub cover or lid 1 and the central portion 2,
respectively.
The tub shown in Figures 1 to 4 may be removably electrically connected to a base n
comprising control electronics via the tongue with electrical ts 6a of the heating
element 6, which protrude from the tub as shown in s 2 and 3.
While the arrangement shown in Figures 1 to 4 ses rather specific features such as the
snap hook interface at the top cover 1 and the device interface and spill back protection at the
central portion 2, it is evident that these features are not essential to the present technology
and that the claims are not to be construed to be limited to such features. In particular, the
entire tub as well as all of its components may have an entirely different geometric shape,
e.g., round rather than rectangular or the like. Furthermore, other heating elements than the
g element 6 shown in Figure 6 may be employed and the lining 7 may not cover the
entire inner surface of the sidewall 4b of the container 4, but rather a substantial portion
thereof. Moreover, the shape and type of the electrical tions may vary.
Figs. 7 and 8 show cross sectional views of a humidifier tub according to the present
technology. The tub includes a lining 7 provided over the heating element 6. The lining 7
may be overmolded over the heating t 6 to provide a water and/or vapor sealed
protection layer across the heating surface. The lining 7 is ably thermally conductive so
as to effectively transfer heat from the hot plate or g element 6 to the water in the tub.
Furthermore the lining 7 is ably formed of a bio-compatible material and may be
formed of silicone, Teflon®, UV cured polymers or other thermally conductive plastic
materials, such as CoolPoly™ products. The lining may also provide an easily cleanable
surface.
Furthermore, the lining may allow the heating element 6 to be inserted or d directly
within the water tub, which may provide enhanced thermal performance.
JAWs ref: 505791/73
Fig. 7 shows an example of a humidifier tub with an open base or bottom. As illustrated, the
tub includes plastic molded sidewalls 4b and a heating assembly 14 that cooperate to define a
water chamber or compartment for water 13. The heating assembly 14 includes an
overmolded lining 7, a thermally conductive support structure 15 (e.g., metal hot plate), and a
heating t 6 having g tracks abutting against the support structure 15. As
rated, the heating assembly is spaced ly from the lower ends of the sidewalls 4b.
The sidewalls 4b may be overmolded onto the heating apparatus, without a bottom wall or
bottom protective layer. Other materials with high thermal insulation may be used for the
overmold. Also, an insulator or bottom wall (not shown) may be provided to the tub below the
heating t 6.
Fig. 8 shows an example of a fier tub with a closed base or bottom 4a. As illustrated,
the tub 4 includes plastic molded sidewalls 4b, a plastic molded bottom or base wall 4a, and a
heating assembly 14 that cooperate to define a water chamber or tment for water 13.
The heating assembly includes an lded lining 7, a thermally conductive support
structure 15 (e.g. metal hot plate), and a heating element 6 providing heating tracks. The
sidewalls 4b and bottom or base wall 4a may be overmolded onto the heating apparatus.
Fig. 9 shows another example where the lining 7 is overmolded over the inner surface of the
side walls 4b and around the heating assembly 14 at the bottom or base 4a of the tub.
While the technology has been described in connection with several examples, it is to be
understood that the technology is not to be limited to the disclosed examples, but on the
contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included
within the spirit and scope of the technology. Also, the various examples described above
may be implemented in conjunction with other examples, e.g., one or more aspects of one
example may be combined with one or more aspects of another example to e yet other
examples. Further, each independent e or component of any given assembly may
constitute an additional example. In addition, while the technology has particular application
to patients who suffer from OSA, it is to be appreciated that patients who suffer from other
illnesses (e.g., congestive heart failure, diabetes, morbid obesity, , bariatric surgery,
etc.) can derive benefit from the above teachings. Moreover, the above ngs have
applicability with patients and non-patients alike in dical applications.
JAWs ref: 505791/73
In this specification, the word “comprising” is to be understood in its “open” sense, that is, in
the sense of “including”, and thus not limited to its “closed” sense, that is the sense of
“consisting only of”. A corresponding meaning is to be attributed to the corresponding words
“comprise”, “comprised” and ises” where they appear.
JAWs ref: 505791/73
Claims (13)
1.
A tub for a humidifier sing: a container made of a first al, 5 a g element, and a lining comprising a second material different from the first material; wherein the container comprises a base and a side wall defining a reservoir for a supply of liquid to be evaporated, the heating element is provided on an inner e of the container, and the lining covers at least the heating element. 10 2. The tub of claim 1, wherein the heating element is provided on at least the base of the container.
3. The tub of claim 1 or 2, wherein the lining further covers at least a portion of an inner surface of the container.
4. The tub of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the lining is molded over at least the 15 heating element.
5. The tub of claim 4, wherein the lining is injection-molded.
6. The tub of claim 4 or 5, wherein the lining is molded over an entire inner surface of the side wall of the container.
7. The tub of any one of claims 1-6, wherein the lining covers substantially the entire 20 inner e of the side wall of the container.
8. The tub of any of one of claims 1-7, wherein the second al comprises silicone or biocompatible silicone.
9. The tub of any one of claims 1-8, wherein the first material comprises any one of polycarbonate, polysulfone, polymethylmethacrylate polybutylene terephthalate 25 and/or combinations thereof.
10. The tub of any one of claims 1-9, wherein the lining has a thickness between 0.5 mm and 5 mm.
11. The tub of claim 10, wherein the lining has a thickness between 1 mm and 3 mm.
12. The tub of any one of claims 1-11, wherein the heating element comprises any one 30 of: printed foil heater, ne heater, carbon fiber heater, etched metal heater, Kapton heating element, silicone heating panel and/or combinations thereof.
13. The tub of any one of claims 1-12, wherein the heating t is coated with an insulating material. JAWs ref: 50579
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US201261611137P | 2012-03-15 | 2012-03-15 | |
US61/611,137 | 2012-03-15 | ||
PCT/EP2012/071739 WO2013135318A1 (en) | 2012-03-15 | 2012-11-02 | Heating apparatus |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
NZ629805A NZ629805A (en) | 2016-04-29 |
NZ629805B2 true NZ629805B2 (en) | 2016-09-01 |
Family
ID=
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