WO2024236391A1

WO2024236391A1 - A humidification chamber

Info

Publication number: WO2024236391A1
Application number: PCT/IB2024/054161
Authority: WO
Inventors: Wenjie Robin LIANG; Joshua LIM; Michele Anne MURRAY; Jessica Grace SEWELL; Timothy Waka NEATE; Michael John ANDRESEN; Paul Joseph Moody; Geoff Kok-Hoe ONG; Telge Nishan Chaturanga PEIRIS; Jose Jonna Tohay Chavez; Logan Ross ANDREW; Roger Huang; Suzanne Marie BELL; Gian Max PADRUTT; Stephen David EVANS; Pascal Dennis Papaioea TAANE; Leighton Yun JENSEN; Boston Caleb BLOMFIELD
Original assignee: Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Limited
Priority date: 2023-05-12
Filing date: 2024-04-30
Publication date: 2024-11-21
Also published as: CN223095945U; TW202508658A

Abstract

A humidification chamber configured to be used with a breathing circuit assembly. The humidification chamber comprises a main body, a base connected to the main body, a cavity at least partially defined by the body and the base to hold a volume of liquid, an inlet into the cavity, an outlet out of the cavity, and a circuit end cap configured to receive a breathing circuit component of the breathing circuit assembly.

Description

A HUMIDIFICATION CHAMBER

[001 ] This application claims the benefit of priority from United States Provisional Patent Application No. 63/625805, filed 26 January 2024; No. 63/502823, filed 17 May 2023; and No. 63/501858, filed 12 May 2023, the entire content of each which is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[002] The present disclosure generally relates to humidification systems, and components thereof, including a humidification chamber for a respiratory therapy system delivering a flow of gases to a patient including pressurized respiratory gases. More particularly, though not exclusively, the present disclosure relates to a humidification chamber, a humification chamber with a circuit end cap for receiving a breathing circuit component, and a humidification chamber with accessories (feedset connector and port attachment) including features facilitating safe and secure connections.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

[003] Respiratory therapy apparatus or systems for delivering a flow of gases can be used to improve ventilation of a patient. Such apparatus or systems can be used to improve patient comfort and/or improve the prognosis of the patient's respiratory illness.

[004] In some systems, heated and humidified gases are delivered for various medical procedures or treatments. A number of components in the system can be assembled together for use to provide the heated and humidified gases to a patient. Many systems have a humidification chamber for holding a volume of liquid and associated breathing circuit components connected to the chamber.

[005] Respiratory assistance systems supply pressurized respiratory gases to a patient for breathing support (assisting a spontaneously breathing patient) or life support (controlling every breath).

[006] It has been shown that there are clinical benefits when one or more of the temperature and humidity of the respiratory gases emulate the levels that occur naturally in healthy human lungs. These levels are generally about 37° Celsius (C) and 100% relative humidity. [007] A respiratory assistance system may include a humidifier to heat and humidify the pressurized respiratory gases. The humidifier may include a humidification chamber configured to contain a volume of liquid such as water. The humidification chamber may be heated by the humidifier to raise the temperature and/or humidity of the volume of water and the respiratory gases passing through the headspace of the humidification chamber above the volume of water. A liquid conduit may supply water to the humidification chamber from a reservoir, such as a sterile water bag, to maintain or replenish the volume of water contained by the humidification chamber.

[008] A luer connection may be used to connect the liquid conduit to the humidification chamber. In medical environments, luer connections are widely used for the transfer of fluids and gases. Luer connections are typically used to connect various medical devices such as syringes, catheters, and connectors to one another in a variety of medical applications. Luer connections typically involve a male luer connector which will insert into a female rigid luer fitting.

[009] A luer connection between the liquid conduit and the humidification chamber of a respiratory assistance system is inexpensive, effective, familiar, and easy to use.

[010] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a humidification chamber, or a respiratory therapy system with a humidification chamber which overcomes or at least partially ameliorates some of the abovementioned disadvantages or which at least provides the public with a useful choice.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[011] In accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the configurations disclosed herein, a humidification chamber configured to be used with a breathing circuit assembly, the humidification chamber comprising: a main body; a base connected to the main body; a cavity at least partially defined by the body and the base to hold a volume of liquid; an inlet into the cavity; an outlet out of the cavity; and a circuit end cap configured to receive a breathing circuit component of the breathing circuit assembly.

[012] In some configurations the circuit end cap is configured to occlude an end of the breathing circuit component.

[013] In some configurations the circuit end cap is integrally formed with the main body.

[014] In some configurations the circuit end cap is not removable from the main body.

[015] In some configurations the circuit end cap is provided on the main body exterior to and isolated from the cavity.

[016] In some configurations the circuit end cap does not form a passageway into the cavity.

[017] In some configurations the circuit end cap protrudes from the main body.

[018] In some configurations the circuit end cap extends generally vertically from a top surface of the main body.

[019] In some configurations the circuit end cap comprises a height of at least 5mm.

[020] In some configurations the circuit end cap comprises an outer diameter between

8mm and 30mm.

[021] In some configurations the circuit end cap comprises an outer diameter of 12 mm.

[022] In some configurations the circuit end cap comprises an outer diameter substantially the same as an inner diameter of the breathing circuit component it is configured to receive.

[023] In some configurations a sealing connection is formed between a sealing surface of the circuit end cap and the breathing circuit component.

[024] In some configurations the sealing surface of the circuit end cap is on an outer perimeter of the circuit end cap configured to engage with an interior surface of the breathing circuit component.

[025] In some configurations the sealing connection is tapered.

[026] In some configurations the circuit end cap size and geometry are configured to receive the breathing circuit component via a friction fit.

[027] In some configurations the circuit end cap comprises a generally cylindrical shape.

[028] In some configurations the circuit end cap comprises a generally smooth outer perimeter.

[029] In some configurations the circuit end cap is hollow. [030] In some configurations the circuit end cap is solid.

[031] In some configurations the circuit end cap comprises a generally flat top surface.

[032] In some configurations the circuit end cap comprises a recessed top surface.

[033] In some configurations the circuit end cap comprises a ribbed top surface.

[034] In some configurations the ribbed top surface comprises a cross-shape.

[035] In some configurations the ribbed top surface comprises a Y-shape.

[036] In some configurations the circuit end cap is located at or towards a central region on the top surface of the main body.

[037] In some configurations the circuit end cap is located in a region between the inlet and outlet on the top surface of the main body.

[038] In some configurations the circuit end cap is offset from centre on the top surface of the main body.

[039] In some configurations the inlet comprises an inlet port defining a passage into the cavity of the humidification chamber and the outlet comprises an outlet port defining a passage out of the cavity of the humidification chamber and the inlet and outlet ports are configured to provide connections to a supply conduit and inspiratory conduit respectively. [040] In some configurations further comprising a liquid fill port.

[041] In some configurations further comprising a plug configured to occlude the liquid fill port.

[042] In some configurations further comprising a tether configured to retain the plug to the main body.

[043] In some configurations the main body comprises a generally rounded shape with generally smooth sides.

[044] In some configurations the main body comprises a dome-shape.

[045] In some configurations the main body and base are removably attached to one another.

[046] In some configurations humidification chamber further comprises a sealing element between the main body and the base.

[047] In some configurations the circuit end cap is configured to support a Y-piece connector.

[048] In some configurations the circuit end cap is configured to support a patient- end of the Y-piece connector. [049] In accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the configurations disclosed herein, a humidification system comprising: a humidification chamber as defined in any one of the proceeding clauses; and a breathing circuit assembly for providing pathways for gases to travel.

[050] In some configurations further comprising a heater base configured to heat at least some of the contents of the humification chamber.

[051] In some configurations the breathing circuit assembly comprises a supply conduit, an inspiratory conduit, and an expiratory conduit.

[052] In some configurations the breathing circuit assembly comprises a Y-piece connector configured to connect the inspiratory conduit and the expiratory conduit.

[053] In some configurations the circuit end cap is sized and configured to receive the Y- piece connector.

[054] In some configurations the humidification chamber comprises a chamfered edge portion.

[055] In some configurations the chamfered edge portion is located at least partially on a top surface of the humidification chamber.

[056] In some configurations the humidification chamber comprises more than one chamfered edge portion.

[057] In some configurations the humidification chamber comprises a pair of chamfered edge portions located on opposing sides of the chamber.

[058] In some configurations the humidification chamber comprises a removal aid feature being a cut-out on a bottom rim of the humidification chamber.

[059] In some configurations the removal aid feature is a slot.

[060] In some configurations the removal aid feature is located on a lower edge of the main body.

[061] In some configurations the removal aid feature does not extend to a top edge of a rim on the bottom of the humidification chamber.

[062] In some configuration the humidification system further comprises a separation tool for assisting with the separation of the main body from the base of the humidification chamber.

[063] In some configurations the separation tool is configured to engage with the removal aid feature of the humidification chamber. [064] In some configurations the separation tool is substantially flat.

[065] In some configurations the separation has a flat bottom region and a ramped top surface region.

[066] In some configurations the outlet is located further from a side wall of the humidification chamber than the inlet.

[067] In some configurations the outlet is located further from a side wall of the humidification chamber than the inlet.

[068] In some configurations the outlet is located closer to the centre than a side wall of the chamber.

[069] In accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the configurations disclosed herein there is provided a breathing circuit kit for use in a humidified respiratory assistance system, the breathing circuit kit comprising: a humidification chamber configured to contain a liquid, the humidification chamber comprising an inlet port for supplying the liquid to an interior of the humidification chamber in use, the inlet port comprising: a humidification chamber bore providing a passage for the liquid from an inlet end at an exterior of the humidification chamber to an outlet end at the interior of the humidification chamber; a side wall defining a first portion of the humidification chamber bore, the first portion of the humidification chamber bore tapering, at least in part, toward the outlet end of the humidification chamber bore; and a shoulder defining a second portion of the humidification chamber bore, the shoulder extending inwardly of the side wall; a liquid conduit; and a feedset connector comprising a proximal portion and a distal portion, the proximal portion and the distal portion at least in part defining a connector bore extending from a proximal end of the feedset connector to a distal end of the feedset connector, wherein the proximal portion is configured to couple with the liquid conduit and the distal portion is configured to couple with the inlet port, in use.

[070] In some configurations a diameter of the second portion of the humidification chamber bore may be smaller than an external diameter of an ISO-compliant connector.

[071] In some configurations a diameter of the second portion of the humidification chamber bore may be larger than an external diameter of a first ISO-compliant connector and smaller than an external diameter of a second ISO-compliant connector, wherein the first ISO- compliant connector is different to the second ISO-compliant connector.

[072] In some configurations the shoulder may at least in part extend in a direction perpendicular to an axis of the humidification chamber bore.

[073] In some configurations the first portion of the humidification chamber bore may at least in part comprise a constant taper, preferably tapering at a rate of between about 5% and 7%, more preferably tapering at a rate of about 6%.

[074] In some configurations the distal portion of the feedset connector may be configured to couple with the inlet port with an interference fit.

[075] In some configurations the inlet port may be configured so that a first ISO- compliant connector contacts the shoulder when the first ISO-compliant connector is inserted into the inlet port, in use.

[076] In some configurations the first portion of the humidification chamber bore may be configured to at least in part receive the distal portion, preferably between about 45% and 90% of the distal portion, more preferably between about 65% and 75% of the distal portion, and most preferably about 69% of the distal portion.

[077] In some configurations the inlet port and/or the feedset connector may be configured so that the feedset connector does not contact the shoulder when the feedset connector is engaged with the inlet port, in use.

[078] In some configurations the inlet port and/or the feedset connector may be configured so that the feedset connector is spaced from the shoulder by at least 1 mm, preferably by between about 1 mm and 5 mm, and more preferably by about 3 mm, when the feedset connector is engaged with the inlet port, in use.

[079] In some configurations an exterior of the feedset connector may at least in part taper towards the distal end of the feedset connector, preferably at least in part comprising a constant taper, more preferably tapering at a rate of between about 5% and 7%, more preferably tapering at a rate of about 6%, and most preferably tapering at a rate substantially the same as the first portion of the humidification chamber bore.

[080] In some configurations at least one, and preferably both, of the side wall and the shoulder may comprise an annular shape in cross-section through an axis of the humidification chamber bore. [081] In some configurations the shoulder may taper, at least in part, towards the outlet end of the inlet port, preferably the shoulder at least in part comprising a variable taper.

[082] In some configurations an outside diameter of the distal portion at the distal end of the feedset connector may be between about 6 mm and 8 mm, preferably about 7 mm. [083] In some configurations the first portion of the humidification chamber bore may comprise one or more of: a longitudinal length of between about 8.5 mm and 9 mm, preferably about 8.5 mm; a minimum diameter of between about 6.7 mm and 6.9 mm, preferably about 6.7 mm or 6.8 mm; a maximum diameter of between about 7.2 mm and 7.4 mm, preferably about 7.3 mm; a diameter which tapers by between about 0.3 mm and 0.7 mm, preferably about 0.5 mm or 0.6 mm; and/or a minimum diameter which is substantially equal to, or larger than, a maximum diameter of the second portion of the humidification chamber bore.

[084] In some configurations the humidification chamber bore may taper, at least in part, from an upstream end of the second portion toward the outlet end of the inlet port. [085] In some configurations the second portion of the humidification chamber bore may comprise one or more of: a maximum diameter of no more than about 3.3 mm; a diameter, at a transition between an upstream surface and an edge of the shoulder, of no more than 3.3 mm, e.g., about 3.2 mm; a diameter, preferably at an upstream end of the second portion, which is between about 41 % and 46%, preferably about 44%, of a diameter of the humidification chamber bore at the inlet end of the inlet port; and/or a diameter, preferably at the upstream end of the second portion, which is between about 3.1 mm and 3.3 mm, preferably about 3.2 mm.

[086] In some configurations the side wall may comprise an outer surface that diverges outwardly from the inlet end of the inlet port.

[087] In some configurations the side wall of the inlet port is preferably not threaded.

[088] In some configurations the side wall may protrude upwardly from a top of the humidification chamber.

[089] In some configurations the breathing circuit kit may comprise any one or more of: a humidifier supply tube configured to supply a flow of respiratory gases to a gases inlet of the humidification chamber; a patient supply tube configured to receive the flow of respiratory gases from an outlet of the humidification chamber and convey the flow of respiratory gases towards a patient; an expiratory tube configured to receive expiratory gases from the patient and convey the expiratory gases away from the patient; and a wye-piece configured to be fluidly coupled with the patient supply tube, the expiratory tube and a patient interface.

[090] In some configurations the breathing circuit kit may comprise a port attachment, the port attachment comprising an adaptor portion and a closure portion, the adaptor portion and the closure portion selectively engageable with the inlet port to respectively: adapt the inlet port for fluid coupling with an alternative feedset connector of a different size and/or shape to a feedset connector configured to couple directly to the inlet port, or close off the inlet port.

[091] In some configurations the adaptor portion may comprise a first end portion and a second end portion, the second end portion configured to engage the inlet port, the first end portion and the second end portion at least in part defining an adaptor bore extending through the adaptor portion to provide a fluid flow path through the port attachment, at least one, and preferably both, of the adaptor portion and the adaptor bore tapering, at least in part, from the first end portion to the second end portion, and the closure portion preferably being integrally formed with the adaptor portion.

[092] In some configurations the port attachment may be tethered to the humidification chamber.

[093] In accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the configurations disclosed herein there is provided a humidification chamber for use in a humidified respiratory assistance system, the humidification chamber configured to contain a liquid and comprising an inlet port for supplying the liquid to an interior of the humidification chamber in use, the inlet port comprising: a side wall defining a first portion of a humidification chamber bore providing a passage for the liquid from an inlet end at an exterior of the humidification chamber to an outlet end at the interior of the humidification chamber, the first portion of the humidification chamber bore tapering, at least in part, toward the outlet end of the inlet port, and a shoulder defining a second portion of the humidification chamber bore, the shoulder extending inwardly of the side wall.

[094] In some configurations a diameter of the second portion of the humidification chamber bore may be smaller than an external diameter of an ISO-compliant connector.

[095] In some configurations a diameter of the second portion of the humidification chamber bore may be larger than an external diameter of a first ISO-compliant connector and smaller than an external diameter of a second ISO-compliant connector, wherein the first ISO- compliant connector is different to the second ISO-compliant connector.

[096] In some configurations the shoulder may at least in part extend in a direction perpendicular to an axis of the humidification chamber bore.

[097] In some configurations the first portion of the humidification chamber bore may at least in part comprise a constant taper, preferably tapering at a rate of between about 5% and 7%, more preferably tapering at a rate of about 6%.

[098] In some configurations at least one, and preferably both, of the side wall and the shoulder may comprise an annular shape in cross-section through an axis of the humidification chamber bore.

[099] In some configurations the shoulder may taper, at least in part, towards the outlet end of the inlet port, the shoulder preferably comprising a variable taper.

[0100] In some configurations the first portion of the humidification chamber bore may comprise one or more of: a longitudinal length of between about 8.5 mm and 9 mm, preferably about 8.5 mm; a minimum diameter of between about 6.7 mm and 6.9 mm, preferably about 6.7 mm or 6.8 mm; a maximum diameter of between about 7.2 mm and 7.4 mm, preferably about 7.3 mm; a diameter which tapers by between about 0.3 mm and 0.7 mm, preferably about 0.5 mm or 0.6 mm; and/or a minimum diameter which is substantially equal to, or larger than, a maximum diameter of the second portion of the humidification chamber bore.

[0101] In some configurations the humidification chamber bore may taper, at least in part, from a first end of the second portion toward the outlet end of the inlet port.

[0102] In some configurations the second portion of the humidification chamber bore may comprise any one or more of: a maximum diameter of no more than about 3.3 mm; a diameter, at a transition between an upstream surface and an edge of the shoulder, of no more than 3.3 mm, e.g., about 3.2 mm; a diameter, preferably at an upstream end of the second portion, which is between about 41 % and 46%, preferably about 44%, of a diameter of the humidification chamber bore at the inlet end of the inlet port; and/or a diameter, preferably at the upstream end of the second portion, which is between about 3.1 mm and 3.3 mm, preferably about 3.2 mm.

[0103] In some configurations the side wall may comprise an outer surface that diverges outwardly from the inlet end of the inlet port.

[0104] In some configurations the side wall of the inlet port is preferably not threaded. [0105] In some configurations the side wall of the inlet port may protrude upwardly from a top of the humidification chamber.

[0106] In some configurations the humidification chamber may comprise a port attachment, the port attachment comprising an adaptor portion and a closure portion, the adaptor portion and the closure portion selectively engageable with the inlet port to respectively: adapt the inlet port for fluid coupling with an alternative feedset connector of a different size and/or shape to a feedset connector configured to couple directly to the inlet port, or close off the inlet port.

[0107] In some configurations the adaptor portion may comprise a first end portion and a second end portion, the second end portion configured to engage the inlet port, the first end portion and the second end portion at least in part defining an adaptor bore extending through the adaptor portion to provide a fluid flow path through the port attachment, at least one, and preferably both, of the adaptor portion and the adaptor bore tapering, at least in part, from the first end portion to the second end portion, and the closure portion preferably being integrally formed with the adaptor portion.

[0108] In some configurations the adaptor portion may be tethered to the humidification chamber.

[0109] In accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the configurations disclosed herein, there is provided a water feedset assembly for use in a respiratory assistance system, the water feedset assembly comprising: a liquid conduit; a water source connector, e.g., a spike, configured to be fluidly coupled to a first end of the liquid conduit; and a feedset connector comprising a proximal portion and a distal portion, the proximal portion and the distal portion at least in part defining a connector bore extending from a proximal end of the feedset connector to a distal end of the feedset connector to provide a fluid flow path through the feedset connector, wherein the proximal portion is configured to be fluidly coupled to a second end of the liquid conduit, and the distal portion is configured to be fluidly coupled to an inlet port of a humidification chamber of the respiratory assistance system, in use.

[0110] In some configurations the feedset connector may at least in part taper towards the distal end of the feedset connector, preferably at least in part comprising a constant taper, more preferably tapering at a rate of between about 5% and 7%, more preferably tapering at a rate of about 6%.

[0111] In some configurations an outside diameter of feedset connector at the distal end may be between about 6 mm and 8 mm, preferably about 7 mm.

[0112] In some configurations at least one of the proximal portion and the distal portion may comprise a substantially frustoconical shape, the feedset connector preferably comprising a flange located intermediate the proximal portion and the distal portion.

[0113] In accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the configurations disclosed herein there is provided a port attachment for use with a humidification chamber in a respiratory assistance system, the port attachment comprising: an adaptor portion, the adaptor portion comprising a first end portion and a second end portion, the first end portion and the second end portion defining an adaptor bore extending through the adaptor portion to provide a fluid flow path through the port attachment, the second end portion configured to be selectively engaged with an inlet port of the humidification chamber, and at least one, and preferably both, of the adaptor portion and the adaptor bore tapering, at least in part, from the first end portion to the second end portion; and a closure portion integrally formed with the adaptor portion, the closure portion configured to be selectively engaged with the inlet port of the humidification chamber to close or seal the inlet port in use.

[0114] In accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of at least one of the configurations disclosed herein there is provided a port attachment for use with a humidification chamber in a respiratory assistance system, the humidification chamber comprising an inlet port configured to engage with a first feedset connector, the port attachment comprising an adaptor portion and a closure portion, and the port attachment configured to be selectively engageable with an inlet port of the humidification chamber in one of an adapting configuration and a closing configuration, wherein: in the adapting configuration the adaptor portion is configured to engage with, and fluidly couple, the inlet port and a second feedset connector which differs to the first feedset connector, and in the closing configuration the closure portion is configured to engage the inlet port to seal or close it. [0115] In some configurations, the port attachment comprises a protruding rib, and the protruding rib is configured to function as a separation tool.

[0116] In some configurations, the protruding rib is configured to engage with one or more removal feature(s) of a main body and/or base of the humidification chamber, to aid in disassembly of the main body from the base of the humidification chamber.

[0117] In some configurations there is provided a humidification chamber for respiratory or surgical humidification, comprising: a hollow body, comprising an inlet port and an outlet port; a heat conductive body; and a sealing element configured to provide a seal between the hollow body and the heat conductive body, when assembled; wherein the heat conductive body is configured to be removably attachable to the hollow body and has a thermal capacity of less than about 30 joules per kelvin (J/K), less than about 27 J/K, between about 16 J/K and 27 J/K, between about 19 J/K and 24 J/K, between about 20 J/K and 22 J/K, about 21 J/K, or between about 20.7 J/K and 21.2 J/K.

[0118] In some configurations the heat conductive body may comprise an aluminum alloy material.

[0119] In some configurations the heat conductive body may comprise a thickness of between about 0.2 mm and 1.2 mm, between about 0.2 mm and 1 mm, between about 0.4 mm and 0.9 mm, between about 0.6 mm and 0.8 mm, or about 0.7 mm.

[0120] In some configurations the heat conductive body may comprise a thermal conductivity of between about 12 W/mK and 286 W/mK, between about 88 W/mK and 251 W/mK, between about 170 W/mK and 230 W/mK, about 227 W/mK, or between about 190 W/mK and 210 W/mK.

[0121] In some configurations the heat conductive body may be anodized.

[0122] In some configurations the heat conductive body may comprise a specific heat capacity of between about 0.5 J/gK and 1.5 J/gK, between about 0.7 J/gK and 1.1 J/gK, between about 0.8 J/gK and 1 J/gK, or about 0.9 J/gK.

[0123] In some configurations the heat conductive body may comprise a mass of between about 10 g and 100 g, between about 15 g and 50 g, between about 20 g and 25 g, or about 23 g. [0124] In some configurations the humidification chamber may comprise one or more removal features configured to aid disassembly of the humidification chamber.

[0125] In some configurations the humidification chamber may comprise a surround, the surround integral with, attached to, or attachable with the heat conductive body and configured to engage a base unit of a humidifier, in use.

[0126] In some configurations the surround may be overmolded to the heat conductive body.

[0127] In some configurations the surround may comprise the one or more removal features configured to aid disassembly of the humidification chamber.

[0128] In some configurations the heat conductive body may comprise a contacting wall configured to be in thermal contact with a heater plate, in use, the contacting wall comprising a uniform thickness of between about 0.2 mm and 1.2 mm, between about 0.2 mm and 1 mm, between about 0.4 mm and 0.9 mm, between about 0.6 mm and 0.8 mm, or about 0.7 mm.

[0129] In some configurations the heat conductive body and/or the surround may at least in part define a channel configured to receive and retain the sealing element, in use.

[0130] In some configurations there is provided a humidification chamber for respiratory or surgical humidification, the humidification chamber comprising: a hollow body, the hollow body comprising an inlet port and an outlet port; a heat conductive body configured to be removably attached to the hollow body, the heat conductive body comprising a contacting wall; and a surround, the surround integral with, attached to, or attachable with the heat conductive body, and comprising a removal feature; wherein the hollow body and the heat conductive body are configured to at least in part define a chamber configured to contain a volume of water, in use.

[0131] In some configurations the removal feature may comprise a stepped region configured to form a slot between the surround and the hollow body when the humidification chamber is assembled, in use.

[0132] In some configurations the slot may be configured for insertion of an implement.

[0133] In some configurations the sealing element may be configured to be located adjacent to the heat conductive body and the surround, the sealing element configured to provide a seal between the hollow body and one or more of the heat conductive body or the surround.

[0134] In some configurations the sealing element may be configured to provide a seal between the hollow body and the heat conductive body. For example, an upstanding wall of the heat conductive body.

[0135] In some configurations the surround may comprise a first portion proximal to the heat conductive body and a second portion distal from the heat conductive portion, the first portion forming a shoulder configured to at least in part retain the sealing element, and the second portion comprising the removal feature.

[0136] In some configurations the second portion may at least in part comprise a substantially uniform thickness of between about 2.5 mm and 3.5 mm, e.g., about 3 mm.

[0137] In some configurations the second portion of the surround may be configured to act as a stop for the hollow body during assembly of the humidification chamber, in use.

[0138] In some configurations a height of the removal feature may be between about 1 mm and 3 mm, e.g., about 2 mm.

[0139] In some configurations a width of the removal feature may be at least about 5 mm, between about 5 mm and 100 mm, between about 5 mm and 50 mm, between about 5 mm and 30 mm, between about 10 mm and 25 mm, or between about 15 mm and 20 mm, e.g., about 16 mm. In other examples, the width of the removal feature may be between about 10 mm and 20 mm, or between about 12 mm and 16 mm, e.g., about 14 mm. In other examples, the removal feature may extend about an entire a perimeter of the humidification chamber.

[0140] In some configurations the removal feature may be configured to aid disassembly of the hollow body and the heat conductive body.

[0141] In some configurations the surround may comprise more than one removal feature.

[0142] In some configurations the surround may comprise between one and eight, or between two and six, e.g., four, removal features.

[0143] In some configurations the humidification chamber may comprise a dissimilar material to the heat conductive body. [0144] In some configurations the surround may comprise a polymer such as polypropylene.

[0145] In some configurations the heat conductive body may comprise a metal or alloy such as aluminum or stainless steel.

[0146] In some configurations the humidification chamber may comprise an overmold to the heat conductive body.

[0147] In some configurations the humidification chamber may provide a negligible contribution to the thermal capacity of the humidification chamber.

[0148] In some configurations the humidification chamber may be configured so that inserting and maneuvering (e.g., rotating and/or levering) an implement into the removal feature aids disassembly of the hollow body and the heat conductive body.

[0149] In some configurations the heat conductive body and the surround, in combination, may be configured to be removably attached to the hollow body.

[0150] In some configurations the heat conductive body may be configured to be removably attached to the hollow body by the surround.

[0151] In some configurations the surround may be permanently connected to the heat conductive body.

[0152] In some configurations the heat conductive body may comprise an upstanding wall extending from the contacting wall, wherein the surround is connected to the upstanding wall.

[0153] In some configurations the humidification chamber may be functionally equivalent to an alternative humidification chamber.

[0154] In some configurations the humidification chamber may differ structurally to the alternative humidification chamber.

[0155] In some configurations the humidification chamber may be configured to provide a similar level of humidity to the medical gas when compared to the alternative humidification chamber with the same input conditions.

[0156] In some configurations the alternative humidification chamber is a disposable humidification chamber. [0157] In some configurations the thermal capacity of the humidification chamber may be within 15%, within 10%, within 5%, or within 2.5% of an alternative humidification chamber.

[0158] In some configurations the heat conductive body may be configured to have a thermal capacity within about ±5 J/K, within about ±2 J/K, within about ±1 J/K, or within about ±0.5 J/K of the thermal capacity of the heat conductive body of the alternative humidification chamber.

[0159] In some configurations the heat conductive body may be configured to have a thermal capacity within about ±15%, within about ±10%, within about 5%, or within about 2.5% of the thermal capacity of the heat conductive body of the alternative humidification chamber.

[0160] In some configurations there is provided a heat conductive body configured to form part of a humidification chamber engageable with a humidifier base unit to deliver humidified medical gas for respiratory or surgical treatment, wherein the heat conductive body is configured to be removably attached to a polymer body to form the humidification chamber, and the heat conductive body has a thermal capacity of less than 30 joules per kelvin (J/K), less than about 27 J/K, between about 16 J/K and 27 J/K, between about 19 J/K and 24 J/K, between about 20 J/K and 22 J/K, about 21 J/K, or between about 20.7 J/K and 21.2 J/K.

[0161] In some configurations the humidifier base unit may be configured to detect a low water or water-out condition.

[0162] In some configurations the humidifier base unit may be configured to determine a response of the first humidification chamber or the second humidification chamber, plus a volume of water (if any) contained therein, to a characteristic energization signal applied to the heater plate.

[0163] In some configurations the base unit may comprise a controller configured to detect one or more of a low water condition or a water-out condition based on a response of the disposable humidification chamber or the reusable humidification chamber, including any liquid contained therein, to a characteristic energization signal applied to the heater plate. [0164] Further aspects, novel features and advantages of the present disclosure will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art in light any one or more of the illustrative examples set out in the following detailed description and drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0165] To easily identify the discussion of any particular element, the most significant digit or digits in a reference numeral refer to the figure number in which that element is first introduced. Like reference numerals may refer to like features in different figures and/or examples.

[0166] Specific embodiments and modifications thereof will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the detailed description herein having reference to the figures that follow, of which:

[0167] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of an example respiratory therapy system.

[0168] Figure 2 is a schematic illustration of an example respiratory assistance system.

[0169] Figure 3 is a schematic illustration of another example respiratory assistance system supplying respiratory gases to a patient in use.

[0170] Figure 4 is a schematic illustration of a humidifier and a water feedset assembly being prepared for use in a respiratory assistance system.

[0171] Figure 5 shows a front perspective view of a humidification chamber.

[0172] Figure 6 shows a back perspective view of the humidification chamber.

[0173] Figure 7 shows a top view of the humification chamber.

[0174] Figure 8 shows a cross section of the humidification chamber.

[0175] Figure 9 shows an exploded view of the humidification chamber.

[0176] Figure 10 shows a front perspective view of the humidification chamber with a breathing circuit component connected to a circuit end cap of the humidification chamber. [0177] Figure 11 shows a front view of the humification chamber with a breathing circuit component connected and a partial section view of the circuit end cap and breathing circuit component interaction.

[0178] Figure 12 shows a back perspective view of an example of a humification chamber with a circuit end cap.

[0179] Figure 13 shows a front perspective view of an example of a humification chamber with a circuit end cap. [0180] Figure 14 shows an example of a circuit end cap cross section.

[0181] Figure 15 shows an example of a circuit end cap cross section.

[0182] Figure 16 shows an example of a circuit end cap cross section.

[0183] Figure 17 shows a front perspective view of an example of a humidification chamber with a circuit end cap.

[0184] Figure 18 shows a front view of the humidification chamber of figure 17.

[0185] Figure 19 shows a side view of the humidification chamber of figure 17.

[0186] Figure 20 shows a cross section as indicated on figure 18.

[0187] Figure 21 shows a cross section as indicated on figure 19.

[0188] Figure 22 shows a detail view as indicated on figure 18.

[0189] Figure 23 shows a detail view of a cross-section of the humidification chamber as indicated on figure 20 and a separation tool.

[0190] Figure 24 shows a perspective view of a humidification chamber and the separation tool.

[0191] Figure 25 is a perspective view of an example humidification chamber and water feedset assembly.

[0192] Figure 26 is a perspective view of a heat conductive body and a surround.

[0193] Figure 27 is a top view of the heat conductive body and the surround in.

[0194] Figure 28 is a cross-section view of the heat conductive body and the surround in an embodiment as indicated in Figure 26 and 27.

[0195] Figure 29 is a cross-section view of the heat conductive body and the surround in an embodiment as indicated in Figure 28.

[0196] Figure 30 is a front view of the heat conductive body and the surround in an embodiment as indicated in Figure 28.

[0197] Figure 31 is a perspective view of the heat conductive body and the surround in an embodiment as indicated in Figure 28.

[0198] Figure 32 is a detailed view of the heat conductive body and the surround in an embodiment as indicated in Figure 28 .

[0199] Figure 33 is a bottom view of the heat conductive body and the surround in an embodiment as indicated in Figure 28 .

[0200] Figure 34 is a perspective view of a humidifier comprising a base unit and a humidification chamber in accordance with another example, during a mounting process. [0201] Figure 35 is a perspective view of the humidifier of Figure 34, with the humidification chamber mounted on the base unit.

[0202] Figure 36 is an exploded detail view of an example inlet port of a humidification chamber and an example feedset connector of a water feedset assembly.

[0203] Figure 37 is a section view of the inlet port of a humidification chamber.

[0204] Figure 38 is a plan view of the inlet port of a humidification chamber.

[0205] Figure 39 is section view of the inlet port of a humidification chamber, including a detail view of a shoulder and a side wall of the inlet port.

[0206] Figure 40 is a section view of another example inlet port of a humidification chamber.

[0207] Figure 41 is a plan view of another example inlet port of a humidification chamber.

[0208] Figure 42 is a perspective view of a feedset connector of a water feedset assembly.

[0209] Figure 43 is a side view of a feedset connector of a water feedset assembly.

[0210] Figure 44 is a perspective view of another example feedset connector for a water feedset assembly.

[0211] Figure 45 is a perspective view of another example feedset connector for a water feedset assembly.

[0212] Figure 46 is a perspective view of another example feedset connector for a water feedset assembly.

[0213] Figure 47 is a perspective view of another example feedset connector for a water feedset assembly.

[0214] Figure 48 is a section view of the feedset connector and inlet port engaged in use.

[0215] Figure 49 is a perspective view of a port attachment engageable with an inlet port of a humidification chamber.

[0216] Figure 50 is a section view of a port attachment.

[0217] Figure 51 is a perspective view of a port attachment engaged with an inlet port of a humidification chamber in a closing configuration.

[0218] Figure 52 is a section view of a port attachment engaged with an inlet port of a humidification chamber in a closing configuration.

[0219] Figure 53 is a perspective view of a port attachment engaged with an inlet port of a humidification chamber in an adapting configuration. [0220] Figure 54 is a perspective view of a port attachment engaged, in an adapting configuration, with an inlet port of a humidification chamber and an alternative feedset connector.

[0221] Figure 55 is a section view of a port attachment engaged with an inlet port of a humidification chamber in an adapting configuration.

[0222] Figure 56 is a perspective view of another example port attachment.

[0223] Figure 57 is a perspective view of another example port attachment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0224] Although certain examples are described below, those of skill in the art will appreciate that the disclosure extends beyond the specifically disclosed examples and/or uses and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. Thus, it is intended that the scope of the disclosure herein disclosed should not be limited by any particular examples described below.

System Overview

[0225] Figures 1 -4 show example systems of which are described below. Although the systems are described individually, it is to be understood that the systems share similar features of which the similar features may be readily substituted between the example systems. In addition, it is also to be understood that the parts, elements, and features of one example system may be provided, alone or in combination with other parts, elements, and features of the same example system, into one or more of the further example systems.

[0226] A first example system is shown in Figure 1 .

[0227] With reference to Figure 1 , a configuration of a humidification system 100 is shown. The humidification system 100 has a humidification chamber 104 for holding a volume of liquid, such as water, and a breathing circuit or breathing circuit assembly for providing pathway(s) for gases to travel through the system 100 to and from a user 128.

[0228] The humidification system 100 in some configurations includes a heater base 102. The heater base 102 heats the chamber 104 and causes at least some of the chamber 104 contents to evaporate. [0229] In some configurations, the system 100 further comprises a gases supply 130. The gases supply 130 may be a ventilator or other suitable source of pressurized gases suitable for breathing or use in medical procedures.

[0230] With reference again to Figure 1, the breathing circuit assembly 100 may include a supply conduit 120, an inspiratory conduit 122, and, in some configurations, an expiratory conduit 124. A gases supply end of the supply conduit 120 is configured to connect to an output 132 of the gases supply 130 and a chamber end of the supply conduit 120 is configured to connect to the inlet 113 of the chamber 104. A chamber end of the inspiratory conduit 122 is configured to connect to the outlet 114 of the chamber 104, and a user end of the inspiratory conduit 122 is configured to connect to the user 128 via an interface 126, for example. A user end of the expiratory conduit 124 is configured to connect to the interface 126, and a gases supply end of the expiratory conduit 124 is configured to connect to a return 134 of the gases supply 130. The user end of the inspiratory conduit 122 and expiratory conduit 124 can be connected to the interface 126 via a Y-piece 127, for example but without limitation.

[0231] In use, gases can flow from the gases supply 130 through the supply conduit 120 and into the chamber 104 via an inlet 113 of the chamber. The gases are humidified within the chamber 104 and exit the chamber 104 through an outlet 114 of the chamber. The user inhales humidified gases supplied through the inspiratory conduit 122, and exhales into the expiratory conduit 124. The inspiratory conduit 122 and/or expiratory conduit 124 can each include a heating element, for example, a heating wire, to help maintain the gases at a desired temperature and to reduce the likelihood of significant condensation formation in the conduits. Optionally, the system may include a temperature sensor, for example at the humidification chamber 104 and/or in the system towards patient end of the conduit(s).

[0232] In some configurations, the respiratory therapy system 100 may be configured to be reusable. For example, components of the system may be reprocessed and sterilized for reuse. It may therefore be appreciated that in some configurations, surfaces are designed to have no or fewer dirt traps where possible e.g. smooth surfaces may be desirable. In these reusable configurations, components may be made from materials which are able to withstand elevated temperatures and a range of chemicals present in the intended reprocessing and sterilization processes.

[0233] A further example system is shown in Figures 2-4. [0234] Figure 2 is a schematic drawing of an example respiratory assistance system 100. The respiratory assistance system 100 may broadly include a gases source 101 , a flow generator 105, a humidifier supply tube 120, a humidifier 108 and an inspiratory tube 122. [0235] The gases source 101 supplies respiratory gases (e.g., air, i.e., a blend of nitrogen, oxygen, argon, water vapor and trace gases) to the flow generator 105. In some examples, the gases source 101 may be a wall source, a compressed gas cylinder, or the ambient environment.

[0236] The flow generator 105 which may, for example, be part of a gases supply 130 and may pressurize or regulate the pressure of the respiratory gases received from the gases source 101 . The flow generator 104 may be configured to control the pressure, volume, or flow rate of respiratory gases supplied to the patient (not shown).

[0237] The humidifier supply tube 120 receives the pressurized respiratory gases from the flow generator 105 and conveys them to the humidifier. In the example respiratory assistance system 100, the flow generator 105 and the humidifier 108 are separate devices. In other examples, the flow generator 105 and the humidifier 108 may be integrated in a single device (e.g., within a single housing). In such examples, the humidifier supply tube 120 may be, or include, internal ducting within the housing of the integrated device.

[0238] The humidifier 108 of the example respiratory assistance system 100 may broadly include a heater base 102 and a humidification chamber 104. The humidifier 108 may be an F&P 810™, 820™, 850™ or 950™ Heated Humidifier available from Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Limited of Auckland, New Zealand, for example.

[0239] The heater base 102 may include a heater plate 1 16 (hidden beneath the humidification chamber 104 in Figure 2). The heater plate 1 16 may be electronically controlled by a controller (not shown) which may be configured to regulate one or more of a temperature and humidity of the respiratory gases.

[0240] The humidification chamber 104 may include a gases inlet 1 13 and a gases outlet 1 14. The gases inlet 1 13 may be configured to couple with the humidifier supply tube 120. The gases outlet 114 may be configured to couple with the inspiratory tube 122.

[0241] The humidification chamber 104 may be configured to be removably engaged with the heater base 102. Removable engagement may facilitate cleaning or replacement of the humidification chamber 104. [0242] The humidification chamber 104 may include a hollow body and a heat conductive body. The heat conductive body may form the base of the humidification chamber 104. In some examples, the heat conductive body may alternatively or additionally form at least part of a side of the humidification chamber. The heat conductive body may be formed from a metal material. The hollow body may form the sides and top of the humidification chamber. The hollow body may be translucent or transparent. The hollow body may be formed from a plastics material. In some examples, the heat conductive body may be crimped to the hollow body.

[0243] The humidification chamber 104 may be configured to contain a volume of liquid, e.g., water. The humidification chamber 104 may be configured to be engaged with the heater base 102 so that it is in thermal engagement with the heater plate 116. Thermal energy from the heater plate 116 in use may warm the liquid contained by the humidification chamber 104. Warming of the liquid may in turn warm the respiratory gases and/or vaporize the liquid for uptake by the respiratory gases that pass into the humidification chamber 104 through the gases inlet 113, through the headspace of the humidification chamber 104, and out the gases outlet 114.

[0244] The inspiratory tube 122 receives the pressurized and humidified respiratory gases from the humidifier 108 and conveys them for delivery to the patient via a patient interface (not shown). The patient interface may be an invasive interface (e.g., an endotracheal tube or tracheostomy tube) or a non-invasive interface (e.g., a total-face mask, full-face mask, oral mask, nasal mask, nasal pillows or nasal cannula).

[0245] The inspiratory tube 122 may be heated, e.g., to increase or maintain the temperature, decrease or maintain the relative humidity, and/or maintain the absolute humidity of the respiratory gases as they are conveyed along the length of the inspiratory tube 122. Heating of the inspiratory tube 122 may mitigate the formation of condensation within the inspiratory tube 122. The inspiratory tube 122 may be heated by a heater (not shown) which may be provided within the lumen of the inspiratory tube 122, embedded within the wall of the inspiratory tube 122, or surrounding the inspiratory tube 122 along at least a portion of its length. In some examples, the heater may include a resistive heater wire within the lumen or embedded in the tube wall. The inspiratory tube 122 may include an electrical connector to receive power for the heater wire from the flow generator 105 or the humidifier 108. In some examples, the electrical connector may include a socket or plug. In some examples, the electrical connector may be integrated as part of a tube connector 125. In other examples, the inspiratory tube 122 may include a water jacket and be heated by circulation of heated water. [0246] The inspiratory tube 122 may include a tube connector 125 for pneumatic coupling with the gases outlet 114 of the humidification chamber 104. The tube connector 125 may include an electrical connector 123, e.g., a socket, to receive power for the heater wire from the humidifier 108.

[0247] The humidifier supply tube 120, humidification chamber 104, and inspiratory tube 122 of the example respiratory assistance system 100, in combination, may be said to form a breathing circuit. More particularly, a single limb breathing circuit. Gases expired by the patient and any excess respiratory gases supplied by the inspiratory tube 122 but not inspired by the patient (collectively referred to as expiratory gases), may be vented to atmosphere. [0248] In other examples, the respiratory assistance system may include a dual limb breathing circuit. The dual limb breathing circuit may include an expiratory tube to convey the respiratory gases back to a gases return gases inlet (not shown) of the flow generator 105. The expiratory tube may be heated, like the inspiratory tube described above, to mitigate condensation. The expiratory tube may additionally, or alternatively, be formed at least in part from a breathable material which allows the passage of water molecules through the tube wall of the expiratory tube.

[0249] The humidifier supply tube 120, humidification chamber 104, and inspiratory tube 122 may be sold individually. Or one or more of them may be packaged together as a breathing circuit kit. The breathing circuit kit may be pre-assembled. Pre-assembly may reduce the risk of misconnections.

[0250] The breathing circuit and/or the breathing circuit kit may include further components such as any one or more of the expiratory tube, a filter, a water trap, a wye-piece, a water feedset assembly, a feedset connector, a liquid conduit, water source connector (e.g., a spike), a port attachment, a tube adaptor, a catheter mount and a patient interface (none of which are shown in Figure 2).

[0251] With reference to Figure 3, provided is a schematic of a further example respiratory assistance system 200. Except as described below or otherwise apparent from the drawings, the example respiratory assistance system 200 of Figure 3 may be similar to the respiratory assistance system 100 of Figure 2. The details and variants described above are intended to apply equally to this example, and vice versa. [0252] The gases source 101 of the respiratory assistance system 200 may be the air in the ambient environment surrounding the flow generator 105.

[0253] The flow generator 105 of respiratory assistance system 200 may be a ventilator. Specifically, a room-entraining ventilator which pressurizes ambient air. The flow generator 105 may include a gases inlet 202 for drawing in ambient air. The flow generator 105 may include a blower 205 which pressurizes the ambient gases as respiratory gases for supply to the patient. In some examples, the ambient gases may be supplemented by one or more supplementary gases such as oxygen.

[0254] The flow generator 105 of respiratory assistance system 200 may include a flow generator user interface 206. The flow generator user interface 206 may provide visual, audible and/or tactile output to a user. The flow generator user interface 206 may include one or more displays, speakers, lights or the like. The flow generator user interface 206 may receive input from a user. The flow generator user interface 206 may include a touch-screen display. The flow generator user interface 206 may include one or more physical or on-screen buttons, dials and sliders, or any combination thereof.

[0255] The flow generator 105 of respiratory assistance system 200 may include one or more flow generator sensors 208. The one or more flow generator sensors 208 may be used to detect characteristics of the respiratory gases and/or the blower 205.

[0256] The flow generator 105 of respiratory assistance system 200 may include a flow generator controller 210. The flow generator controller 210 may control the blower 205 to provide a set flow rate, pressure, or volume of respiratory gases. Control of the blower 205 may be based on user input received via the flow generator user interface 206 and/or sensor inputs received from the flow generator sensors 208.

[0257] The humidifier 108 of respiratory assistance system 200 may include a humidifier user interface 212. The humidifier user interface 212 may provide visual, audible and/or tactile output to a user. The humidifier user interface 212 may include one or more displays, speakers, lights or the like. The humidifier user interface 212 may receive input from a user. The humidifier user interface 212 may include a touch-screen display. The humidifier user interface 212 may include one or more physical or on-screen buttons, dials and sliders, or any combination thereof.

[0258] The humidifier 108 of respiratory assistance system 200 may include a one or more humidifier sensors 214. The humidifier sensors 214 may include one or more of a heater plate temperature sensor, an ambient air temperature sensor, a humidification chamber outlet temperature sensor, and a patient end temperature sensor. The humidifier sensors 214 may sense a temperature of one or more of the heater plate 116, ambient air, and the respiratory gases at the gases outlet 114 of the humidification chamber 104 and the patient end of the inspiratory tube 122, for example.

[0259] The humidifier 108 of respiratory assistance system 200 may include a humidifier controller 216. The humidifier controller 216 may control operation of the heater plate 116 and/or the heater wire 218. The humidifier controller 216 may be configured to regulate a temperature and/or humidity of the respiratory gases delivered to the patient. The one or more humidifier sensors 214 may be used to detect characteristics of the respiratory gases, heater plate 116 and/or humidification chamber 104. The humidifier controller 216 may be configured to control the temperature and/or humidity of the respiratory gases dependent on the settings recorded by the humidifier user interface 212 (i.e., a set temperature and/or a set humidity). For example, a temperature setpoint for the respiratory gases may be between about 26° Celsius (C) and 43°C, and preferably between 29°C and 40°C. The absolute humidity of the respiratory gases may be greater than about 12 milligrams per liter (mg/L), and preferably greater than about 33 mg/L. The relative humidity of the respiratory gases may be greater than about 80%, preferably greater than about 90%, and most preferably about 100%. The temperature and/or humidity of the respiratory gases may be dependent on the respiratory therapy provided by the respiratory assistance system 200.

[0260] The humidifier 108 of respiratory assistance system 200 may include an electrical lead 220. The electrical lead 220 may be configured to be connected with a socket in the tube connector 125 of the inspiratory tube 122. The electrical lead 220 may connect the heater wire 218 within the inspiratory tube 122 to the humidifier 108 for the supply of power under control of the humidifier controller 216. The electrical lead 220 may connect the humidification chamber outlet temperature sensor to the humidifier controller 216. A further electrical lead may connect the patient end temperature sensor with the humidifier controller 216.

[0261] In some examples, the flow generator 105 and the humidifier supply tube 120 may be configured to communicate with each other via a communications channel 222. The communications channel 222 may be wired or wireless. One or more functions of the humidifier 108 may be configured to be controlled by the flow generator user interface 206 and/or flow generator controller 210. One or more functions of the flow generator 105 may be configured to be controlled by the humidifier user interface 212 and/or humidifier controller 216. In other examples, the flow generator 105 and the humidifier 108 may be integrated. In such examples, the integrated device may include a single user interface and/or controller controlling operation of both the flow generator and the humidifier.

[0262] The humidification chamber 104 may be configured to be removably received by the humidifier 108 in a horizontal direction. In such examples, the humidification chamber 104 may be described as a slide-on humidification chamber. In other examples, the humidification chamber may be configured to be received by the humidifier in a vertical direction. In some such examples, the humidification chamber 104 may be described as a drop-in humidification chamber. In some examples, the humidifier 108 may include a compartment configured to receive and partially enclose the humidification chamber. In some examples, the compartment may be substantially closed and/or sealed by a lid or door of the humidifier 108.

[0263] The heater plate 116 and the humidification chamber 104 may be biased towards each other to establish and maintain good thermal contact. In some examples, the heater plate 116 may be sprung or otherwise resiliently biased to provide an upwards biasing force against the bottom of the humidification chamber 104. The humidification chamber 104 may be braced against this upwards biasing force. In other examples, the humidifier 108 and/or humidification chamber 104 may be configured to provide a downwards biasing force against a fixed heater plate 116, or both the heater plate 1 16 and the humidification chamber 104 may be biased towards each other.

[0264] A patient interface 224 is provided to the patient 226 to supply the humidified and pressurized respiratory gases to the patient's airway. In this example, the patient interface 224 is a non-invasive interface in the form of a nasal mask. But any non-invasive or invasive interface may alternatively be used.

[0265] The humidification chamber, breathing circuit kit, feedset connector, water feedset assembly and/or port attachment of the present disclosure may be used with other respiratory assistance systems. With suitable modifications, they may additionally or alternatively be used with other medical gases systems, e.g., surgical insufflation systems. They may be configured for use in the treatment of adult, pediatric or neonatal patients.

[0266] Figure 4 shows a humidifier 108 and a water feedset assembly 302 being prepared for use in a respiratory assistance system, e.g., respiratory assistance system 100 or respiratory assistance system 200. The water feedset assembly 302 may be configured to supply a volume of water, or other liquid, to the interior of the humidification chamber 1 14.

[0267] The water feedset assembly 302 may include a feedset connector 305. The feedset connector 305 may be configured to be fluidly coupled with an inlet port of the humidification chamber 104 as described in further detail below.

[0268] The water feedset assembly 302 may include a liquid conduit 306. The liquid conduit 306 may be fluidly coupled with the feedset connector 305. The liquid conduit 306 can be attached to the feedset connector 305 by adhesive, sonic welding, interference fit or the like.

[0269] The water feedset assembly 302 may include a water source connector 308. The water source connector 308 may be fluidly coupled with the liquid conduit 306. The water source connector 308 can be attached to an end of the liquid conduit 306 by adhesive, sonic welding, interference fit or the like. As illustrated, in some examples the water source connector 308 may be in the form of a spike. The spike may be configured to pierce a water source, e.g., sterile water bag 310, to fluidly couple the water feedset assembly 302 with the water contained by the water source.

[0270] In some examples, the water may be supplied to the humidification chamber 104 by a gravity feed. The sterile water bag 310 may be elevated above the humidification chamber 104 to provide a flow of water through the water source connector 308, liquid conduit 306 and feedset connector 305 to the inlet port 402 and interior of the humidification chamber 104, in use.

[0271] In some examples, the humidification chamber 104 may have a valve, e.g., a float valve, to control the flow of water. In other examples, the water may be supplied to the humidification chamber 104 by a pump. The pump may be selectively operated to maintain or replenish the volume of water contained by the humidification chamber 104 as required, in use. [0272] The terms "conduit" and "tube" as used throughout the disclosure are to be understood as being interchangeable for at least the features of inspiratory tube 122 and inspiratory conduit 122 as well as humidifier supply tube 120 and supply conduit 120.

[0273] The disclosed systems above and apparatus below may also be said broadly to consist in the parts, elements and features to or indicated in the specification of the application, individually or collectively in any or all of the combinations of two or more of said parts, elements, features or systems. [0274] The breathing circuit assembly may include multiple conduits, connectors or other components. During set-up, storage and/or transport of the system, some components may not be in use and may therefore be disassembled and separated from the rest of the assembly. [0275] When the circuit is not assembled, the circuit components may be prone to ingress of dust or contaminants. Further, some circuit components, especially smaller parts, may be misplaced when not assembled in the system.

[0276] In some systems, components may be placed on a surface or suspended on a separate component of the system such as a medical pole. During this time, these loose components (especially smaller components such as connectors) may be at risk of being accidentally dropped on the ground and possibly contaminated or simply lost. Further, most of the breathing circuit components comprises passageways for gases to travel and it would be desirable to limit the ingress of dust and contaminants into these passageways when the component is not connected and used in the breathing circuit assembly.

[0277] A humidification chamber as shown in Figures 5-24 is described herein below.

[0278] In some configurations, the humidification chamber 104 as best shown in figures 5 and 6, generally comprises a main body 110 and a base 111. The main body 110 and base 1 11 at least partially define a cavity 112 (best shown in figure 8) and is designed to hold a volume of liquid.

[0279] The terms "hollow body" and "main body" as used throughout the disclosure are to be understood as being interchangeable for at least the features of main body 1 10 and hollow body 4100.

[0280] In some configurations, the main body 1 10 and base 1 11 are removably attached to one another. These components of the humidification chamber 104 may be disassembled for cleaning where the chamber is intended to reusable. In other configurations, the main body 1 10 and base 11 1 are integrally formed or permanently connected.

[0281] In some configurations, the humidification chamber 104 has a sealing element 1 19 between the main body 1 10 and the base 1 11 as shown in figures 8 and 9. Optionally, the sealing element 1 19 is an O-ring.

[0282] In some configurations, the main body 1 10 comprises generally smooth sides and optionally a generally rounded shape (e.g. at least some rounded perimeters). In these configurations, the geometry of the main body 110 may help reduce the issue of dust or other contaminants collecting on the chamber. Further, rounded perimeters such as the slight arch on the top surface 118 of the main body 110 as illustrated in figures 5 and 8, can promote run off of liquid to prevent or at least limit liquid collecting on top of the chamber. In some configurations, the main body 110 has a dome-shape.

[0283] In some configurations, the humification chamber 104 is moulded from a polymer. The polymer in some configurations may be able to withstand reprocessing cycles. In some configurations, the polymer is a polysulfone.

[0284] With reference to the humidification chamber 104 in figure 5, the chamber has an inlet 113 and an outlet 114. The inlet 113 provides an opening through the chamber wall of the main body 110 for fluid communication (e.g. of a gas supply) into the cavity, while the outlet 114 provides an opening for fluid communication out of the cavity (e.g. humified gases). The chamber wall may be defined as the wall of the main body 110 and may include either or both the top and side wall regions of the main body. The chamber wall of the main body 110 defines at least part of the cavity 112. In some configurations, the inlet 113 and/or the outlet 114 are provided on the top surface 118 of the main body 110. The breathing circuit assembly can be connected and used with the humidification chamber 104 to provide gas flow to and from the chamber.

[0285] The inlet 113 in some configurations comprises an inlet port defining a passage into the cavity of the humidification chamber 104, and the outlet 114 comprises an outlet port defining a passage out of the cavity of the humidification chamber. The inlet and outlet ports can provide connections for the supply conduit 120 and inspiratory conduit 122 respectively. [0286] Optionally, the humidification chamber 104 also has a liquid fill port 115. Liquid may be introduced into the cavity 112 of the humidification chamber 104 via the liquid fill port 115. The respiratory system 100 may further comprise a liquid source (such as a water bag, saline bag, or the like) configured to provide a liquid to the humidification chamber 104.

[0287] In some configurations, as referenced in figure 6, the humidification chamber 104 also has a plug 121 configured to occlude the liquid fill port 115. The plug 121 can block the liquid fill port 115 when the liquid fill port 115 is not in use. Blocking the liquid fill port 115 may prevents ingress of dust or contaminants when the liquid fill port is not in use. Blocking the liquid fill port 115 prevents or reduces the flow of gases through the liquid fill port. Optionally, the humidification chamber 104 has a tether 117 configured to retain the plug 121 to the main body. [0288] With reference to figure 5, to receive and store a breathing circuit component which is not in use, the humidification chamber 104 in some configurations comprises a circuit end cap 150. The circuit end cap 150 is configured to receive a breathing circuit component (for example an end of the Y-connector 127) of the breathing circuit assembly.

[0289] It should be appreciated that in these configurations, a humidification chamber 104 with the ability to receive a breathing circuit component on the chamber itself when the component is not in use can be advantageous as it reduces the likelihood of misplacing the breathing circuit component as the circuit end cap keeps it together with a central component of the system (the humification chamber). The humidification chamber 104 can keep the breathing circuit component suspended (off a table or other surfaces) and keeps the component easily visible and ready for next use. Other advantages of the humidification chamber 104 having a circuit end cap 150 may include providing a more environmentally friendly solution for occluding the passageway of the breathing circuit component, as the end cap 150 may be reused as often as the chamber is reused. Further, the integrated circuit end cap 150 on the humidification chamber 104 may be beneficial as the breathing circuit component can be removed easily from the chamber (rather than removing a small tab at the end of the breathing circuit component for example).

[0290] In some configurations, the geometry of the circuit end cap 150 is configured to support or at least partially support the breath circuit component. For example, the circuit end cap 150 may fully support the breathing circuit component, or at least partially support the breathing circuit component. A supplementary support separate to the humidification chamber 104 may be used to support another end of the breathing circuit assembly, such as long conduits (e.g. on a hook).

[0291] The circuit end cap 150 can receive an end of the breathing circuit component (for example an end of the Y-connector 127 as shown in figures 10 and 11). Where the breathing circuit component comprises a passageway, the circuit end cap 150 may occlude the open end of the breathing circuit component to limit or prevent ingress of dust or contaminants when the component is not in use or not required to be connected to a patient. The circuit end cap 150 is configured to occlude an end of the breathing circuit component when the circuit end cap is in use e.g. when then breathing circuit component is connected to the circuit end cap. As the breathing circuit component is inserted onto the circuit end cap 150, the cap structure obstructs the opening of the breathing circuit component to prevent ingress of unwanted dust or other contaminants.

[0292] The circuit end cap 150 is configured to receive a breathing circuit component when that breathing circuit component is not required for use in the breathing circuit assembly or is not required to be connected to a patient. For example, the breathing circuit component may be connected and stored on the circuit end cap 150 during a ventilator leak test prior to therapy. Alternatively, the breathing circuit component may be temporarily stored on the circuit end cap 150 of the humidification chamber 104 during therapy when the specific breathing circuit component is not required at the time. The breathing circuit component may also be stored on the circuit end cap 150 before or after therapy.

[0293] The breathing circuit component may also be placed on the circuit end cap 150 before or after a reprocessing cycle. The humidification chamber 104 may be disassembled and exposed to cleaning fluids and elevated temperatures and/or pressures in a reprocessing cycle, and the process may include the use of a washer disinfector and/or an autoclave.

[0294] As shown in figure 10, in some configurations, the circuit end cap 150 is configured to support a Y-piece connector 127 of the breathing circuit assembly. The circuit end cap 150 may be configured to receive a patient- end of the Y-piece connector 127. It should be appreciated that the circuit end cap 150 may be configured to receive other breathing circuit components of the breathing circuit assembly. The breathing circuit component connected to the circuit end cap 150 is typically a terminal end of the circuit when disassembled. For example, the end of the inspiratory conduit 122 may be stored on the circuit end cap 150. It should be appreciated the circuit end cap 150 provided would have dimensions and geometry corresponding to the intended breathing circuit component it is to receive. In some configurations, the circuit end cap 150 would have one or more sealing surfaces to suit a range of adaptors or limbs of the breathing circuit.

[0295] In the illustrated configurations, the circuit end cap 150 is integrally formed with the main body 1 10 of the humidification chamber 104. As such, the circuit end cap 150 is intended to be part of the humidification chamber 104 and fixed rigidly on the chamber such that it is not removable from the main body 110. In some configurations, the circuit end cap 150 is integrally moulded with the main body 110 of the humidification chamber 104 during manufacture. [0296] In an alternative configuration, the circuit end cap 150 may be separate but associated with the humidification chamber 104, and optionally tethered to the chamber in a similar manner as the water inlet plug 121.

[0297] As shown in figure 8, in some configurations, the circuit end cap 150 is provided exterior to and isolated from the cavity 112 of the humidification chamber 104. In these configurations, the circuit end cap 150 does not form a passageway into the cavity 112. As such, the circuit end cap 150 is fluidly isolated from the cavity 112, i.e., sealed and separate so that gas does not flow or escape from the cavity, out through the circuit end cap 150.

[0298] As best shown in figures 5 and 6, the circuit end cap 150 in some configurations protrudes from the main body 110 of the humidification chamber 104. The circuit end cap 150 may extend generally vertically from a top surface 118 of the main body 110. In other configurations, the circuit end cap 150 may extend from a side wall of the main body 110.

[0299] As illustrated in figure 11, a sealing connection can be formed between a sealing surface of the circuit end cap 150 and the breathing circuit component.

[0300] In some configurations, the sealing surface of the circuit end cap 150 is on an outer perimeter 151 of the circuit end cap which is configured to engage with an interior surface of the breathing circuit component.

[0301] The sealing surface may in some configurations be sufficient for a ventilator leak test. In other configurations, the sealing surface is at least sufficient to securely receive the breathing circuit on the humidification chamber 104. A tight fit between these two wall surfaces can help stabilise and secure the breathing circuit component to the chamber 104. Optionally, the outer perimeter 151 of the breathing circuit component and the interior surface 129 of the breathing circuit component may be tapered.

[0302] In some configurations, the circuit end cap 150 has a height sufficient to receive the breathing circuit component. In some configurations, the circuit end cap 150 is elongate and extends into a passageway of the breathing circuit component to provide a stable support for the component when not in use. It may be understood that the circuit end cap 150 offers a suitably stable support for the breathing circuit component when it can support the weight of that component and optionally the rest of the circuit which could act upon that point. In some configurations, the circuit end cap 150 has a height of at least 5mm. In some configurations, the circuit end cap 150 has a height between 11 mm and 16mm. [0303] As shown in figure 11, in some configurations, the size and geometry of the circuit end cap 150 corresponds with the inner geometry of the breathing circuit component. The breathing circuit component is connected to, pressed, secured and/or placed onto the circuit end cap 150 via a friction fit interaction. The interaction between the breathing circuit component and the circuit end cap 150 may be at least secure enough to not be knocked off the chamber 104 inadvertently.

[0304] The circuit end cap 150 may have an outer geometry corresponding to an inner geometry of the breathing circuit component. In some configurations, the circuit end cap 150 comprises an outer diameter substantially the same as an inner diameter of the breathing circuit component it is configured to receive. In some configurations, an outer diameter of the circuit end cap 150 is slightly greater than the inner diameter of the breathing circuit component it is configured to receive. In other configurations, the outer diameter of the circuit end cap 150 is slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the breathing circuit component it is configured to receive. In some configurations, the circuit end cap 150 comprises a taper, for example a taper with a 15mm or 22mm diameter. In some configurations, the circuit end cap 150 comprises a 1 :40 taper.

[0305] In some configurations, as illustrated in the figures, the circuit end cap 150 comprises a generally cylindrical shape. The generally cylindrical shape is designed to fit into the breathing circuit component (for example an end of the Y-connector 127) the chamber 104 is intended to support. Many of these breathing circuits components have generally circular passageways which would correspond and fit over a cylindrical circuit end cap 150.

[0306] In some configurations, the humidification chamber 104 may have indicia, colour coding or the like to make it clear the circuit end cap 150 is for receiving an end of a breathing circuit component. Other design features and methods may be used (such as including information in the instructions manual), to ensure the user understands the intended use of the circuit end cap 150 is for receiving a breathing circuit component.

[0307] As shown in figure 5, the circuit end cap 150 may have a generally smooth outer perimeter 151. The smooth outer perimeter is configured to engage and seal against the inner wall 129 of the breathing circuit component.

[0308] In some configurations, such as shown in figures 14 and 15, the circuit end cap 150 is hollow. In other configurations, such as shown in figure 16, the circuit end cap is solid. [0309] In some configurations, the circuit end cap 150 comprises a generally flat top surface, as shown in figures 14 and 16. In these configurations, the generally flat top surface may reduce the potential for dirt traps on an upper surface of the humidification chamber 104. [0310] In other configurations, the circuit end cap 150 comprises a recessed top surface, as shown in figure 15.

[0311] In yet another configuration, as shown in figure 12, there is a humidification chamber 204 having a circuit end cap 150 comprising a ribbed top surface 153. As shown in the illustrated configuration, the ribbed top surface 153 may have a cross-shape. In other configurations, the ribbed top surface 153 may have a Y-shape, or other suitable shape. In these configurations, the ribs extend into the breathing circuit component to provide support to the breathing circuit component. The ribbed configurations may advantageously provide surfaces for drainage of liquid after reprocessing.

[0312] With reference to figures 17 to 23, there is yet another configuration shown. The humidification chamber 404 in some configurations has a chamfered edge portion 160. The chamfered edge portion 160 may be understood to mean a portion of chamber with a recess or otherwise inward sloping wall to reduce the internal volume of the chamber. An example of the profile of the chamfered edge portion 160 may be shown in the figures, however variations in geometry of the chamfered edge portion is anticipated. The chamfered edge portion 160 comprises a curvature, for example a concave curvature. In some configurations, the chamfered edge portion 160 is located at or towards an edge of the humidification chamber 404. In some configurations, the chamfered edge portion 160 is located at least partially on a top surface of the humidification chamber 404. The chamfered edge portion 160 may extend between a top surface and a side wall of the main body 1 10. In some configurations, the humidification chamber 404 may have more than one chamfered edge portion 160. In some configurations, the humidification chamber 404 has a pair of chamfered edge portions 160. The pair of chamfered edge portions 160 may be located on opposing sides of the chamber. The chamfered edge portion 160 can reduce the compressible volume in the humidification chamber 404 in comparison to a chamber without the chamfered edge portion. In these configurations, it should be appreciated the volume of the humidification chamber 404 may be smaller than a chamber without the chamfered portion, while maintaining the general dimensions of the chamber (e.g. height, width, diameter of the chamber). [0313] It should be appreciated, the chamfered edge portion 160 may reduce the compressible volume of the humidification chamber 404 without influencing the water height within the chamber when the chamber is tilted. The chamfered edge portion 160 enables a greater vertical separation between the top surface of a volume of water in the chamber and the bottom of the inlet and/or outlet port 113, 114. The water height remains the same as chambers without the chamfered edge, until a point when the water level enters outlet 114. This means that the benefit of a reduced compressible volume (via the chamfered edge portion 160) may improve overflow performance with respect to the outlet 114.

[0314] As referenced and shown in figure 17, and shown in a more close-up view, the humidification chamber may have a removal aid feature 170. The removal aid feature 170 is a cut-out in the bottom rim of the humidification chamber. The removal aid 170 may be used to separate the main body 110 from the base 111 of the chamber. Separation of these two components may be useful for cleaning purposes for example.

[0315] The dimension and geometry of the removal aid feature 170 may be sufficiently sized for a person's finger or tool to engage with and separate the main body 110 from the base 111. In some configurations, the removal aid feature 170 may be a slot. The removal aid feature 170 being a smaller sized cut-out may have advantages such as being a reduced area to reduce the likelihood of trapping dirt/ unwanted contaminants. Further, a relatively small removal aid feature 170 may have strength advantages, such as the bottom rim of the humidification chamber remains strong as only a small amount of material is removed for the removal aid feature.

[0316] In some configurations, as shown in figure 22, the removal aid feature 170 is located on a lower edge of the main body 110. In some configurations, the removal aid feature 170 extends from a bottom edge of the rim 171 towards a top edge of the 171. In some configurations, the removal aid feature 170 does not extend to a top edge of a rim 171 on the bottom of the humidification chamber. It may be appreciated smooth surfaces where possible may be desirable, e.g. maintaining a smooth top edge of rim 171 on the bottom of the humidification chamber. In configurations where the humidification chamber is designed to be reused for example, smooth surfaces may be advantageous to reduce dirt traps and/or be more effectively sterilized between uses. The smooth surfaces may also be advantageous as providing a humidification chamber with a consistent and flat contact surface for engaging with the humidifier to which it is attached, may improve ease and/or effectiveness of connection. For example, when the humidification chamber is inserted in between a sprung heater base and chamber rails of the humidifier.

[0317] As shown in figures 23-24, there is shown a separation tool 411 for assisting with the separation of the main body 110 from the base 111 of the chamber. The separation tool 411 is configured to engage with the removal aid feature 170 of the humidification chamber for improved ease of separation of the main body 110 from the base 111 of the chamber. The geometry and dimension of the separation tool 411 is configured to correspond with the removal aid feature 170 of the chamber. In some configurations, the separation tool 411 is substantially flat. In some configurations, the separation tool 411 has a flat bottom and a ramped top surface region as shown in figures 20 and 21. In some configurations, the separation tool 411 has a ramped region 412 which narrows towards one end for improved engagement with the removal aid 170 of the chamber. The ramped region 412 of the separation tool 411 may help wedge between and separate the main body 110 and the base 111 components of the chamber. The separation tool 411 also has a body region 413 being thicker in some configurations than the ramped region 412 of the tool. The ramped top surface may improve ease of insertion or engagement with the bottom of the main body 110, e.g. improved engagement with the removal aid feature 170.

[0318] Once the separation tool 411 engages with the chamber, a turning, lifting or similar action may be used to pry, lever, lift or otherwise separate the main body 110 from the base 111 (as shown by the arrow in figure 20 for example). The separation tool 411 may be used to pry open and separate the two components completely, or in some configurations provide an initial separation of the components enough for a person to separate the components more easily by hand. In other configurations, the main body 110 and base 111 are separated by hand and a separation tool is not used.

[0319] In some configurations, as shown in the illustrated example of figure 5, the circuit end cap 150 is located at or towards a central region on the top surface 118 of the main body 110. In some configurations, the circuit end cap 150 is located in a region between the inlet 113 and outlet 114 on the top surface 118 of the main body 110. In these configurations, the circuit end cap 150 may be easily located. The location of the circuit end cap 150 on the top surface 118 of the main body 110 being central on the main body 110 and/or between inlet 113 and outlet 114 may also improve the stability of the chamber when the breathing circuit component is placed onto the chamber. [0320] In other configurations, the circuit end cap 150 is offset from centre on the top surface 118 of the main body 110. In some configurations, for example the chamber 204 as shown in figure 12, the chamber 304 as shown in figure 13, and the chamber 404 as shown in figure 17, the circuit end cap 150 is closer to an edge rather than a central region on the top surface 118 of the main body 110. In some configurations, for example as shown in figure 17, the outlet 114 (the smaller opening shown) is spaced from the side wall of the humidification chamber. In some configurations, the outlet 114 is located closer to the centre (on the top surface of the chamber) than the wall of the chamber. In some configurations, the outlet 114 is located further away from the side wall of the chamber, than the inlet 113. In some of these configurations, the location of the outlet 114 being spaced from the chamber wall, may help increase the angle which the humidification chamber 404 can be tilted before water enters the outlet 114. In other configurations, as shown in figure 5, the inlet 113 and outlet 114 are approximately the same distance from the side wall. In other configurations (not shown), the inlet 113 is located further away from the side wall of the chamber, than the outlet 114.

[0321] It should be appreciated the humidification chamber as described may be used and/or adapted to suit different patient needs. For example, the chamber may be sized for adult, child or neonatal use. In configurations, such as for neonatal applications, the humidification chamber may be generally smaller in volume (e.g. smaller height to width ratio). Further, features like the chamfered edge portion 160 to reduce the compressible volume may be particularly applicable for some uses, e.g. for neonatal applications where a small compressible volume (and hence pneumatic compliance) may be useful so that it may reduce the likelihood of conditions such as barotrauma.

[0322] A humidification chamber and accessories as shown in Figures 25-56 is described herein below. It is to be understood that the humidification chamber and accessories as below may be used in at least the respiratory system 100 of Figure 2, the respiratory system 200 of Figure 3, for example.

[0323] Figure 25 illustrates an example humidification chamber 104, 1140 and example water feedset assembly 302, 3020.

[0324] In some examples, the humidification chamber 104, 1140 may include a top 4040, side(s) 4060, and base 4080 (hidden). In some examples, as illustrated, the top 4040 and base 4080 may each be substantially circular, and the side 4060 may be substantially cylindrical or frustoconical. In some examples, the top 4040 and side 4060 may be formed by a hollow body 4100 and the base 4080 may be formed by a heat conductive body 4120. The hollow body 4100 and the heat conductive body 4120 may be sealingly attached to each other. The sealing may be watertight and/or airtight. A seal, e.g., an O-ring, gasket or the like, may be provided between the hollow body 4100 and heat conductive body 4120 to improve sealing. In some examples, the hollow body 4100 and the heat conductive body 4120 may be permanently attached to each other, e.g., by crimping, overmolding, or adhesives. In other examples, the hollow body 4100 and the heat conductive body 4120 may be configured to be repeatedly assembled to, and disassembled from, each other.

[0325] The size and/or shape of the heat conductive body 4120, 25020 (shown further in figures 26-33), e.g., contacting wall 25120, may be substantially similar to the heater plate 1 16, 33140 which may improve thermal conduction between the heat conductive body 4120, 25020 and the heater plate 1 16, 33140. The shape of the heat conductive body 4120, 25020 may be configured to reduce hotspots and variation of the heat distribution across the heat conductive body in use. The shape of the heat conductive body 4120, 25020 may be substantially similar to the shape of the heater plate 1 16, 33140.

[0326] The mass of the heat conductive body 4120, 25020 may be less than about 100 grams (g), less than about 50 g, less than about 25 g, or about 23 g. The mass of the heat conductive body 304 may be between about 10 g and 100 g, between about 15 g and 50 g, between about 20 g and 25 g, or about 23 g. In some examples, the mass of the heat conductive body 4120, 25020 being less than 25 g may improve the performance of the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020 in use.

[0327] A thickness of the heat conductive body 4120, 25020, e.g., at least the contacting wall 25120, may be between about 0.2 mm and 1 .2 mm, between about 0.2 mm and 1 mm, between about 0.4 mm and 0.9 mm, between about 0.6 mm and 0.8 mm, or about 0.7 mm. In one example, the thickness may be about 0.8 mm. In some examples, the thickness of the heat conductive body 4120, 25020 may be between about 0.65 mm and 0.75 mm, e.g., about 0.70 mm.

[0328] The heat conductive body 4120, 25020 may be formed from a metal or alloy. The metal or alloy may comprise aluminum or stainless steel. The heat conductive body 4120, 25020 may be formed in one piece from the metal or alloy. The heat conductive body 4120, 25020 may be stamped from a sheet of metal or alloy. [0329] The thermal conductivity of the metal or alloy may be between about 12 watts per meter-kelvin (W/mK) and 286 W/mK, between about 88 W/mK and 251 W/mK, between about 170 W/mK and 230 W/mK, e.g., about 227 W/mK, or between about 190 W/mK and 210 W/mK. [0330] A surface of the heat conductive body 4120, 25020 may comprise a surface coating. In some examples, the heat conductive body 4120, 25020 may be anodized.

[0331] The humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020 may be configured to engage a respiratory apparatus such as humidifier 108, 33040. A vertical distance between an upper surface of a hollow body flange and an underside of the contacting wall 25120, when assembled, may be configured so that the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020 may be securely received and retained by the respiratory apparatus. This distance may ensure consistent contact between a heater plate 116, 33140 and the contacting wall 25120. Consistent contact between a heater plate and the contacting wall may improve the heat transfer between a heater plate 116, 33140 and the heat conductive body 4120, 25020, in use.

[0332] The humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020 may be configured to be functionally equivalent to the alternative humidification chamber. In particular, the reusable humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020 may be configured so that one or more functions of the humidifier 108, 33040 continue to operate as normal (e.g., without false alarms) when the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020 is retrofitted to the humidifier 108, 33040 in place of an alternative humidification chamber. In some examples, the one or more functions may continue to operate as normal without the need for adjusting a parameter or algorithm of the humidifier (e.g., upon automatic detection or manual selection of the appropriate model of humidification chamber). The humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020 and the alternative humidification chamber may differ structurally. For example, the alternative humidification chamber may comprise a heat conductive body permanently attached, e.g., crimped, to a hollow body.

[0333] The humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020 may be configured to provide a similar level of humidity to the medical gas when compared to the alternative humidification chamber with the same input conditions. The input conditions may include an equivalent steady state heater plate power, volume of water, input gas conditions (i.e., temperature and/or humidity), and ambient temperature. Matching one or more characteristics of the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020 and the alternative humidification chamber may reduce the variation in humidity delivery.

[0334] In some examples, the humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020 may be configured to have a thermal capacity within about ±15%, within about ±10%, within about ±5%, or within about ±2.5% of a thermal capacity of an alternative humidification chamber, e.g., a disposable humidification chamber, useable with the same humidifier 108, 33040. In some examples, the heat conductive body 4120, 25020 of the humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020 may be configured to have a thermal capacity within about ±5 J/K, within about ±2 J/K, within about ±1 J/K, or within about ±0.5 J/K of the thermal capacity of the heat conductive body of the alternative humidification chamber. In some examples, the heat conductive body 4120, 25020 of the humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020 may be configured to have a thermal capacity within about ±15%, within about ±10%, within about 5%, or within about 2.5% of the thermal capacity of the heat conductive body of the alternative humidification chamber.

[0335] The thermal capacity of the humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020 may be a product of the mass and the specific heat capacity of the humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020. In some examples, the specific heat capacity of the heat conductive body 4120, 25020 may be between about 0.5 joules per gram kelvin (J/gK) and 1.5 J/gK, between about 0.7 J/gK and 1 .1 J/gK, between about 0.8 J/gK and 1 J/gK, or about 0.9 J/gK.

[0336] The thermal capacity of a humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020 may be largely dependent on the thermal capacity of the heat conductive body 4120, 25020. In some examples, the thermal capacity of the heat conductive body 4120, 25020 may be less than about 30 joules per kelvin (J/K), less than about 27 J/K, between about 16 J/K and 27 J/K, between about 19 J/K and 24 J/K, between about 20 J/K and 22 J/K, about 21 J/K, or between about 20.7 J/K and 21.2 J/K.

[0337] The alternative humidification chamber may be a disposable humidification chamber. The disposable humidification chamber may comprise a hollow body and a heat conductive body which are inseparable (that is, not intended to be removably and repeatedly attached to each other). For example, the heat conductive body of the disposable humidification chamber may be crimped to the hollow body. The disposable humidification chamber may be an F&P™ MR325™ Chamber available from Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Limited of Auckland, New Zealand. The humidifier 108, 33040 may be an F&P™ 820™ Heated Humidifier also available from Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Limited, for example. The parameter may be, or may be related to, a particular model of humidification chamber or a property thereof, e.g., thermal capacity. The function may be a low water or water-out alarm. The algorithm may be a low water or water-out detection algorithm. The water-out detection algorithm may involve detecting a response of a humidification chamber to a characteristic energization signal.

[0338] The humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020 may be configured to withstand at least 20 reprocessing cycles, for example at least 50 reprocessing cycles. In some examples, a reprocessing cycle may comprise placing a humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020, for example in the disassembled configuration, in an autoclave. The autoclave may be operated at a temperature of up to about 136°C for a period of at least 4 minutes. In some examples, a reprocessing cycle may comprise chemical disinfection. In some examples, the humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020 may be configured to withstand both autoclaving and chemical disinfection.

[0339] The example heat conductive body 4120, 25020 of Figures 26 - 33, the heat conductive body 4120, 25020, e.g., the upstanding wall 25060, is attached to a surround 25040. The surround 25040 may partially or completely surround (e.g., encircle) the heat conductive body 4120, 25020, e.g., the upstanding wall 25060. With reference to Figures 26-27, provided are perspective and top views, respectively, of the heat conductive body 4120, 25020 and the surround 25040.

[0340] The heat conductive body 4120, 25020 and the surround 25040 may be used with the hollow body 4100 of the humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020, for example. The surround 25040 may provide one or more similar features or functions to the heat conductive body flange.

[0341] The heat conductive body 4120, 25020 may comprise a contacting wall 25080 and an upstanding wall 25060 extending from the contacting wall 25080 as described as described above. In some examples, the heat conductive body 4120, 25020 does not extend (e.g., in the radial direction) beyond the surround 25040 and/or the upstanding wall 25060. In some examples, the heat conductive body 4120, 25020 may comprise an upper protrusion array or an upper singular protrusion as previously described. In some examples, a sealing element 27100 may be located adjacent to at least one of the heat conductive body 4120, 25020 and the surround 25040. The channel may be formed between the heat conductive body 4120, 25020 and the surround 25040.

[0342] The surround 25040 may be formed in a separate step to the heat conductive body 4120, 25020. The surround 25040 may be connected to the heat conductive body 4120, 25020, e.g., the upstanding wall 25060, by interference fit, adhesive, or overmolding, for example. The surround 25040 may be permanently connected to the heat conductive body, e.g., not configured to be non-destructively separable.

[0343] The heat conductive body 4120, 25020 may be formed from a metal or alloy. The metal or alloy may be aluminum or stainless steel, e.g., grade 304 stainless steel.

[0344] The surround 25040 may be formed of a dissimilar material to the heat conductive body 4120, 25020. The surround 25040 may be a formed from a polymer. The polymer for the surround 25040 may be selected to withstand a reprocessing cycle, or a predetermined minimum number of reprocessing cycles, without distortion and/or degradation due to heat and/or chemicals. The polymer may comprise polypropylene. In some examples, the surround 25040 and the heat conductive body 4120, 25020 in combination may be configured to withstand reprocessing as described above with respect to the humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020. The surround may have a relatively lower thermal conductivity than the heat conductive body.

[0345] The surround 25040 being formed from a dissimilar material may provide for a reduced, e.g., negligible, contribution to the thermal capacity of the humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020.

[0346] The surround 25040 may simplify manufacture and/or reduce manufacturing costs for the heat conductive body 4120, 25020.

[0347] In some examples, the heat conductive body 4120, 25020, or at least the contacting wall 25080, may have a uniform thickness. The heat conductive body 4120, 25020, or the contacting wall 25080, may be between about 0.2 mm and 1.2 mm, between about 0.2 mm and 1 mm, between about 0.4 mm and 0.9 mm, between about 0.5 mm and 0.9 mm thick, or between about 0.6 mm and 0.8 mm thick, e.g., about 0.7 mm thick. In another example, the contacting wall 25080 may be about 0.8 mm thick. The heat conductive body 4120, 25020 may be formed from a sheet material, e.g., a sheet of aluminum alloy. The heat conductive body 4120, 25020 may be stamped. The heat conductive body 4120, 25020 may be formed in a stamping press. [0348] With reference to the embodiments of Figures 28-29, provided are cross-section views of an example heat conductive body 4120, 25020 through planes A-A and B-B, respectively, as indicated in Figure 27.

[0349] The heat conductive body 4120, 25020 may have a lip 27020. The lip 27020, in cross-section, may curve outwardly from the distal end of the upstanding wall 25060. The lip 27020 may form an upper singular protrusion as described above. The lip 27020 may at least in part define the channel configured to receive the sealing element.

[0350] The surround 25040 may adjoin the upstanding wall 25060. The surround 25040 may form an annulus about the upstanding wall 25060.

[0351] A first portion 27040 of the surround 25040, e.g., an upper surface of the surround 25040 in cross-section, may form a shoulder. The shoulder may at least in part retain the sealing element when the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020 is assembled. The shoulder may at least in part define the channel configured to receive the sealing element. In some examples, the humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020 may be configured to retain the sealing element between the shoulder and the lip 27020. In some examples, the first portion 27040 of the surround 25040 and/or the lip 27020 of the heat conductive body 4120, 25020 may comprise one or more retention protrusions for the sealing element.

[0352] In some examples, a second portion 27060 of the surround 25040, e.g., a lower portion of the surround 25040 in cross-section, may comprise a removal feature 25100 as shown in at least Figures 26-28. The removal feature 25100 may be configured to aid disassembly of the hollow body from the base of the humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020, i.e., the surround and the heat conductive body 4120, 25020. In various examples, the surround 25040 may comprise one or more removal features. In the illustrated example, the surround 25040 comprises four removal features 25100.

[0353] The removal feature 25100 may comprises a stepped region, e.g., a downwardly stepped region, which provides a slot between the surround 25040 and the hollow body, e.g., the hollow body flange, when the humidification chamber is in the assembled configuration.

[0354] In at least some examples, the humidification chamber may be disassembled at least in part by use of an implement (not shown) suitable for insertion into the slot. The implement may be maneuvered (e.g., rotated and/or levered) in the slot to prize the hollow body from the surround 25040 and the heat conductive body 4120, 25020 (or vice versa). [0355] As shown in Figure 29, in particular detail C shown in Figure 32, the surround 25040, e.g., second portion 27060, may comprise features previously described in relation to the heat conductive body flange of the preceding examples. For example, the second portion 27060 of the heat conductive body surround 27040 may be configured to act as a stop for the hollow body flange during assembly of the humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020.

[0356] With reference to Figure 32, an additional element 27080 may be located at least partially within the overmould and may be configured to increase adhesion between the overmould and the heat conductive body 4120, 25020. This additional element 27080 may take the form of a metallic wire welded to one or multiple discrete locations of the upstanding wall 25060 of the heat conductive body for increased interaction with the first portion 27040 of the overmould.

[0357] With reference to Figures 30-31 , provided are front and perspective views of the heat conductive body 4120, 25020 in accordance with the example.

[0358] Figure 32 is a detailed view of a heat conductive body 4120, 25020 in accordance with an example, as indicated by detail C in Figure 29.

[0359] In some examples, as best illustrated in Figure 32, the surround 25040 may be substantially 'L'-shaped in cross-section. The second portion 27060 may extend in a substantially outward, e.g., radial, direction. The first portion 27040 may extend in a substantially perpendicular direction, e.g., an upwards direction, with respect to the second portion 27060.

[0360] At least part of the surround 25040, e.g., at least part of the second portion 27060 intermediate the removal features 25100 as best shown in Figure 28, may have a substantially uniform thickness. In some examples, the surround 25040 in cross-section may transition from a varying thickness in at least part of the first portion 27040 to a substantially uniform thickness in at least part of the second portion 27060, as best shown in Figure 32. In some examples, at least part of the second portion 27060, e.g., distal from the first portion 27040, may have a thickness of between about 2.5 mm and 3.5 mm, e.g., about 3 mm.

[0361] At least part of the surround 25040, e.g., at least part of the second portion 27060 at the removal feature 25100 as best shown in Figure 32, may at least in part taper in thickness. For example, the second portion 27060 may taper outwardly from adjacent the first portion 27040. The second portion 27060 may have a tapered section 31020 and a uniform section 31040. In some examples, as shown in Figure 32, the tapered section 31020 and the uniform section 31040 may each correspond to about half of a length of the second portion 27060. [0362] In some examples, as shown in Figure 32, an underside of at least part of the second portion 27060, e.g., at a removal feature 25100, may be concave.

[0363] A height of the removal feature 25100 may be expressed as the distance between the surround 25040, e.g., second portion 27060, and the hollow body flange at the removal feature 25100 when the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020 is assembled. In some examples, the height of the removal feature, i.e., the height of the slot, may be between about 1 mm and 3 mm, e.g., about 2 mm.

[0364] A width of the removal feature 25100 may be expressed with reference to a chord length of the second portion 27060 distal from the first portion 27040. In some examples, the width of the removal feature 25100 may be at least about 5 mm, between about 5 mm and 100 mm, between about 5 mm and 50 mm, between about 5 mm and 30 mm, between about 10 mm and 25 mm, or between about 15 mm and 20 mm, e.g., about 16 mm. In some examples, a humidification chamber may have a single continuous removal feature extending about a majority, or an entirety, of a perimeter of the humidification chamber. In some examples, the width of the removal feature 25100 may be between about 10 mm and 22 mm, or between about 13 mm and 19 mm, e.g., about 16 mm. In some examples, the width of the removal feature may be between about 10 mm and 20 mm, or between about 12 mm and 16 mm, e.g., about 14 mm.

[0365] In some examples with more than one removal feature 25100, each removal feature 25100 may have identical geometry. In some examples, each removal feature 25100 may be equidistantly spaced about the perimeter of the surround 25040. In some examples, pairs of removal features 25100 may be diametrically opposed.

[0366] A removal feature 25100, e.g., stepped region, being provided in a surround 25040 may be preferable to a removal feature provided in the hollow body, e.g., hollow body flange. In some examples, a removal feature 25100 being a provided in the surround 25040 may enable the engagement of the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020 with the humidifier to be independent of rotational orientation of the humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020 with respect to a vertical axis. In some examples, a removal feature, e.g., a stepped region, in a hollow body flange may inhibit engagement of the humidification chamber with at least some humidifiers and/or in some orientations. [0367] Figure 33 is a bottom view of the heat conductive body 4120, 25020 and the surround 25040.

[0368] During set up of a respiratory apparatus, a humidification chamber may be mounted onto a humidifier base unit. The mounting process may involve depressing a component of the humidifier 108, 33040 and moving the humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020 in a direction to be received by the humidifier 108, 33040.

[0369] Figure 34 is a perspective view of an example humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020 as it is being mounted to the base unit of a humidifier 108, 33040. Aside from the differences described below, the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020 according to this example may be similar to the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020, and the description as described above is intended to apply also to the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020.

[0370] The example humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020 may comprise the hollow body 4100 of the humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020. The base of the humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020 may comprise the combination of the heat conductive body 4120, 25020 and the surround 25040.

[0371] The humidifier 108, 33040 may be an F&P™ 820™ Heated Humidifier.

[0372] The humidifier 108, 33040 may have a guard 33060. The guard 33060 may be first depressed by a user in the direction indicated by the arrow 33080. Depressing the guard 33060 may expose a shoulder 33100 in the humidifier 108, 33040 which may be configured to receive the hollow body flange and/or the surround of the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020. The humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020 may be moved in direction indicated by the arrow 33120, e.g., a horizontal direction, to be received by the humidifier 108, 33040.

Engagement of the hollow body flange and/or the surround with the shoulder 3310 may brace the humidification chamber 33020 against an upward force from an upwardly biased, e.g., sprung, heater plate 33140 of the humidifier 108, 33040. The guard 33060 may resiliently return to a guard position following removal of the depressing force and mounting of the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020.

[0373] Figure 35 is a perspective view of the humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020 mounted on the humidifier 108, 33040.

[0374] As illustrated in Figure 35, with the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020 mounted to the humidifier 108, 33040, the guard 33060 in the guard position may be configured to impede finger access to the heater plate 33140, which may become hot during use, and/or impede inadvertent removal of the humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020 from the humidifier 108, 33040.

[0375] The humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020 may have a gases inlet 1 13, 1 180. The gases inlet 1 13, 1 180 may be configured to be pneumatically coupled with the humidifier supply tube 120. The gases inlet 1 13 may receive pressurized respiratory gases from a flow generator 105. The gases inlet 1 13, 1 180 may be integrally formed in the humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020. The gases inlet 1 13, 1800 may be provided in the hollow body 4100, e.g., the top 4040 as illustrated. In other examples, the gases inlet 1 13, 1 180 may be positioned on a side 4060 of the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020, e.g., hollow body 4100. The gases inlet 113, 1180 may be offset from a center of the humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020, e.g., top 4040. As illustrated, the gases inlet 1 13, 1180 may be provided at, or adjacent, a perimeter of the humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020, e.g., the top 4040. The gases inlet 1 13, 1 180 may be substantially cylindrical or frustoconical. The gases inlet 1 13, 1 180 may have a substantially vertical axis. The gases inlet 1 13, 1 180 may protrude outwardly, e.g., upwardly from the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020, e.g., the top 4040. The gases inlet 1 13, 1180 may extend substantially perpendicularly from the top 4040. In other examples, the gases inlet 113, 1180 may extend from the humidification chamber at an angle other than 90°.

[0376] The humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020, e.g., the gases inlet 1 13, 1 180, may include a baffle (not shown). The baffle may be configured to redirect the pressurized respiratory gases. Redirecting the incoming respiratory gases may improve circulation and/or dwell time of the respiratory gases within the humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020. It may also reduce disturbance, e.g., turbulence, at the surface of the volume of water contained by the humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020.

[0377] The humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020 may have a gases outlet 114, 1200. The gases outlet 114, 1200 may be configured to be pneumatically coupled with an inspiratory tube for delivery of humidified respiratory gases to a patient via a patient interface. The gases outlet 114, 1200 may be integrally formed in the humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020. The gases outlet 114, 1200 may be provided in the hollow body 4100, e.g., the top 4040 as illustrated. In other examples, the gases outlet 114, 1200 may be positioned on a side 4060 of the humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020, e.g., hollow body 4100. The gases outlet 114, 1200 may be located at a center of the humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020, e.g., top 4040. In other examples, the gases outlet 114, 1200 may be offset from the center of the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020, e.g., provided at or adjacent an outer perimeter of the top 4040. The gases outlet 1 14, 1200 may be substantially cylindrical or frustoconical. The gases outlet 114, 1200 may have a substantially vertical axis. The gases inlet 113, 1180 may protrude outwardly, e.g., upwardly, from the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020, e.g., the top 4040. The gases outlet 1 14, 1200 may extend substantially perpendicularly from the top 4040. In other examples, the gases outlet 114, 1200 may extend from the humidification chamber at an angle other than 90°.

[0378] In some examples, the axes of the gases inlet 113, 1 180 and the gases outlet 1 14, 1200 may be substantially parallel to each other. The gases inlet 1 13, 1180 and the gases outlet 114, 1200 may protrude from the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020 by the same distance. The gases inlet 1 13, 1180 may be wider (e.g., have a larger inside and/or outside diameter) than the gases outlet 1 14, 1200.

[0379] The humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020 is configured to contain a volume of liquid, e.g., water. The humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020 may have an inlet port 4020 through which the liquid may be provided to the interior of the humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020. The inlet port 4020 may be configured to be fluidly coupled with a water feedset assembly 302, 3020. The inlet port 4020 may be integrally formed in the humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020. The inlet port 4020 may be provided in the hollow body 4100, e.g., the top 4040 as illustrated. In other examples, the inlet port 4020 may be positioned on a side 4060 of the humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020. The inlet port 4020 may extend substantially perpendicularly from the top 4040. In other examples, the inlet port 4020 may extend from the humidification chamber at an angle other than 90°. The inlet port 4020 may be offset from a center of the top 4040, e.g., provided at or adjacent an outer perimeter of the top 4040. The gases outlet 1 14, 1200 may be substantially cylindrical or frustoconical. The gases outlet 114, 1200 may have a substantially vertical axis. The axes of the inlet port 4020 and at least one, and preferably both, of the gases inlet 1 13, 1180 and the gases outlet 114, 1200 may be substantially parallel to each other. The inlet port 4020 may protrude outwardly, e.g., upwardly, from the humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020, e.g., the top 4040. The inlet port 4020 may protrude less than at least one, and preferably both, of the gases inlet 1 13, 1 180 and the gases outlet 1 14, 1200. The inlet port 4020 may protrude by, or less than, about half the distance of at least one, and preferably both, of the gases inlet 1 13, 1180 and the gases outlet 114, 1200. The inlet port 4020 may be narrower (e.g., have a smaller inside and/or outside diameter) than at least one, and preferably both, of the gases inlet 1 13, 1180 and the gases outlet 114, 1200.

[0380] The water feedset assembly 302, 3020 may include a feedset connector 305, 3040, a liquid conduit 306, 3060, and a water source connector 308, 3080, e.g., a spike.

[0381] Figure 36 provides a detailed exploded view of an example inlet port 4020 of a humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020 and an example feedset connector 305, 3040 of a water feedset assembly.

[0382] The inlet port 4020 may have a side wall 5020 which partially defines a humidification chamber bore 5040 within the inlet port 4020. The side wall 5020 may correspond to a portion of the inlet port 4020 extending outwardly from the humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020, e.g., the top 4040. The side wall 5020 may have a circular, e.g., annular, shape when viewed along the axis of the inlet port 4020.

[0383] The humidification chamber bore 5040 may extend completely through the inlet port 4020 from an inlet end at an exterior of the humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020 to an outlet end 5060 at an interior of the humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020. The humidification chamber bore 5040 may provide a passage enabling a liquid to be delivered to the interior of the humidification chamber via the water feedset assembly 302, 3020. The humidification chamber bore 5040 may have a circular cross-section. The humidification chamber bore 5040 may vary in cross-section, e.g., have a variable diameter, along at least a portion of its length. In some examples, the humidification chamber bore 5040 may vary in cross-section, e.g., have a variable diameter, continuously along its entire length. In other examples, the humidification chamber bore 5040 may have a uniform cross-section, e.g., constant diameter, along at least a portion of its length.

[0384] The inlet port 4020 is described in further detail below with reference to Figure 36 to Figure 40.

[0385] With continued reference to Figure 36, the feedset connector 305, 3040 may have a connector body 5080 with a proximal end 5100 (e.g., proximal the liquid conduit 306, 3060, in use) and a distal end 5120 (e.g., distal from the liquid conduit 306, 3060, in use). The connector body 5080 may have a connector bore 5140 extending therethrough. The connector bore 5140 may extend from the proximal end 5100 to the distal end 5120. The connector bore 5140 may have a circular cross-section. The connector bore 5140 may have a uniform cross-section, e.g., constant diameter, along at least a portion of its length. In some examples, the connector bore 5140 may have a uniform cross-section, e.g., constant diameter, along its entire length. In other examples, the connector bore 5140 may vary in cross-section, e.g., have a variable diameter, along at least a portion of its length.

[0386] The feedset connector 305, 3040 may be configured to be fluidly coupled with the liquid conduit 306, 3060 at or around the proximal end 5100. The feedset connector 305, 3040 may be configured to be fluidly coupled with the inlet port 4020 at or around the distal end 5120. The feedset connector 305, 3040 and the inlet port 4020 may be connected by way of an interference fit, e.g., a friction fit.

[0387] The feedset connector 305, 3040 is described in further detail below with reference to Figures 42-48.

Inlet Port

[0388] Figure 37 illustrates a longitudinal cross-section through an inlet port 4020 of a humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020.

[0389] The inlet port 4020 of the humidification chamber may include a side wall 5020. The side wall 5020 may define a first portion 6020 of the humidification chamber bore 5040 within the inlet port 4020. The side wall 5020 and/or the first portion 6020 may correspond to a portion of the inlet port 4020 which extends outwardly from the humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020, e.g., top 4040.

[0390] The side wall 5020 may have an inner surface 6040 and an outer surface 6060. The side wall 5020 may have a thickness t between in inner surface 6040 and the outer surface 6060, in a direction perpendicular to the axis 6080 of the inlet port 4020. The thickness t may vary along at least a portion of a longitudinal length of the side wall 5020. In some examples, the thickness t may vary continuously along an entirety of the longitudinal length of the side wall 5020. In the illustrated example, the thickness t of the side wall 5020 increases continuously from the inlet end 5160 of the inlet port 4020 towards the outlet end 5060 of the inlet port 4020. The thickness t of the side wall 5020 may be substantially uniform in a circumferential direction about the axis 6080, e.g., at any given position along the length of the axis 6080. In some examples, the side wall 5020 and/or the inlet port 4020 may have rotational symmetry about the axis 6080. [0391] In some examples, the outlet end 5060 of the inlet port 4020 may be flush with the interior surface of the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020, e.g., the top 4040. In other examples, the outlet end 5060 of the inlet port 4020 may protrude from the interior surface of the humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020, e.g., the top 4040.

[0392] The first portion 6020 of the humidification chamber bore 5040 (and/or the inner surface 6040 of the side wall 5020) may at least in part taper inwardly from the inlet end 5160 toward the outlet end 5060 of the inlet port 4020. That is, the diameter of the first portion 6020 may decrease in the direction of intended fluid flow. In some examples, the first portion 6020 of the humidification chamber bore 5040 may taper constantly at a rate of between about 4% and 8%, or between about 5% and 7%, e.g., at a rate of about 6%.

[0393] The degree of taper may affect the stability of the connection between the feedset connector 305, 3040 and the inlet port 4020. If the first portion 6020 of the humidification chamber bore 5040 is tapered too steeply, it may result in an ineffective connection as the feedset connector and the inlet port may be too loosely engaged. This may increase the risk of unwanted disconnections. In some examples, the inner surface 6040 of the side wall 5020 and the feedset connector 305, 3040 may require a minimum retention force of between about 40 Newtons (N) and 50 N, e.g., about 45 N, to provide an effective connection. A taper of about 6% has been found to result in enough friction and retention force between the feedset connector 305, 3040 and the inlet port 4020 to provide an effective connection.

[0394] The outer surface 6060 of the side wall 5020 may diverge from the inlet end 5160 of the inlet port 4020 toward the outlet end 5060. That is, the outer surface 6060 may taper towards the inlet end 5160. The inlet port 4020 may therefore have a hollow frustoconical shape. The diverging/tapered outer surface 6060 of the side wall 5020 may improve manufacturability of the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020 during molding. In some examples, the outer surface 6060 may, at least in part, taper constantly at a rate of between about 0.25% and 5%, or between about 0.5% and 3%, e.g., at a rate of about 0.5% or 1 %. In other examples, the outer surface 6060 of the side wall 5020 may not diverge/taper at all. That is, the inlet port 4020 may alternatively have a hollow cylindrical shape.

[0395] A fillet 6100 may be provided at a transition between the side wall 5020 of the inlet port 4020 and the top 4040 of the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020. The fillet may improve manufacturability of the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020 during molding. [0396] The first portion 6020 of the humidification chamber bore 5040 may have a height in the direction of the axis 6080 of between about 8 mm and 9 mm, e.g., of about 8.5 mm.

[0397] It is within the first portion 6020 of the humidification chamber bore 5040 which the feedset connector 305, 3040 is inserted in use to engage with the inlet port 4020. The height of the first portion 6020 of the humidification chamber bore 5040 preferably allows a sufficient portion of the feedset connector 305, 3040 to be inserted within the inlet port 4020 to provide a secure connection.

[0398] The diameter of the first portion 6020 of the humidification chamber bore 5040 may vary along the axis 6080. The variable diameter may be due to the tapering of the humidification chamber bore 5040. In some examples, a minimum diameter of the first portion 6020 of the humidification chamber bore 5040 may be between about 6.7 mm and 6.9 mm, e.g., about 6.7 mm or 6.8 mm. A maximum diameter of the first portion 6020 may be between about 7.2 mm and 7.4 mm, e.g., about 7.3 mm. The diameter of the first portion 6020 of the humidification chamber bore 5040 may taper by between about 0.3 mm and 0.7 mm, e.g., about 0.5 mm or 0.6 mm. In some examples, as illustrated, the minimum diameter of the first portion 6020 of the humidification chamber bore 5040 may be at its inner end, e.g., adjacent the second portion 6120. And the maximum diameter of the first portion 6020 of the humidification chamber bore 5040 may be at the inlet end 5160 of the inlet port 4020.

[0399] In the past, luer connections may have been used to establish a connection between liquid conduits and humidification chambers, among many other applications. Luer connections are inexpensive, familiar, effective and easy to use. But it has been found that the widespread use and interconnectability of luer connections may present an increased risk of misconnection of the liquid conduit and/or humidification chamber. For example, the liquid conduit may be inadvertently connected to a medical device or accessory other than the humidification chamber. Or a medical device or accessory other than the liquid conduit may be inadvertently connected to the humidification chamber.

[0400] The safety of patients receiving respiratory assistance may be improved by a humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020 with an inlet port 4020 which mitigates the risk of misconnection with medical devices, accessories or connectors including ISO-compliant connectors (defined in the Glossary below) and/or luer connectors.

[0401] In some examples, the inlet port 4020 may be incompatible with all ISO-compliant connectors. In other examples, the inlet port 4020 may be incompatible with a subset of the ISO-compliant connectors, e.g., from any one or more of Parts 3, 5, 6 and 7. An inlet port 4020 may be incompatible with a connector if it is configured so that it does not make a secure connection in ordinary use.

[0402] The inlet ports 4020 of the present disclosure may have dimensions selected to mitigate the risk of misconnections of an ISO-compliant connector with the inlet port 4020.

[0403] ISO-compliant connectors may have a range of different widths or diameters. The diameter of the humidification chamber bore 5040 at the inlet end 5160 of the inlet port 4020 may be selected to inhibit ISO-compliant connectors with larger widths or diameters from engaging successfully with the inlet port 4020. Such ISO-compliant connectors may collide with the side wall 5020 of the inlet port 4020 and be unable to fit within the humidification chamber bore 5040. Some narrower ISO-compliant connectors may have outwardly extending barbs. The diameter of the first portion 6020 of the humidification chamber bore 504 may be selected to be large enough so that such ISO-compliant connectors are unable to be secured against the side wall 5020 within the inlet port 4020.

[0404] A shoulder 614 may extend inwardly of the side wall 5020. The shoulder 6140 may be located downstream from the side wall 5020. The shoulder 6140 may define a second portion 6120 of the humidification chamber bore 5040. A cross-sectional area of the humidification chamber bore 5040 may be constricted by the shoulder 6140.

[0405] In some examples, as shown in Figure 37, the shoulder 6140 may have a cove edge shape. The shoulder 6140 may have an upstream surface 6160. In some examples, as illustrated in Figure 37, the upstream surface 6160 of the shoulder 6140 may be a concave surface. The upstream surface 6160 of the shoulder 6140 may form a funnel within the humidification chamber bore 5040. The upstream surface 6160 may constrict the cross- sectional area of the humidification chamber bore 5040 relatively abruptly. In some examples, as illustrated in Figure 37, the upstream surface 6160 may be inclined relative to the axis 6080. In other examples, the upstream surface 6160 may be substantially planar and/or extend radially with respect to the axis 6080.

[0406] In at least the region of the upstream surface 6160 of the shoulder 6140, the inlet port 4020, shoulder 6140 and/or second portion 6120 of the humidification chamber bore 5040 may have a variable taper. In other examples, the inlet port 4020, shoulder 6140 and/or second portion 6120 may have a constant taper in this region. [0407] In some examples, as illustrated in Figure 37, a height of the shoulder 6140, in the direction of the axis 6080 of the humidification chamber bore 5040, may vary. In other examples, the height of the shoulder 6140 may be constant. In some examples, as illustrated in Figure 37, a maximum height of the shoulder 6140, and/or the height of the second portion 6120, may correspond to a thickness of the top 4040 of the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020. In other examples, the maximum height of the shoulder 6140, and/or the height of the second portion 6120, may differ from the thickness of the top 4040 of the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020. In some examples, the shoulder 6140 may be disposed in the same plane as the top 4040. In other examples, the shoulder 6140 may be offset from top 4040 in the direction of the axis 6080.

[0408] The shoulder 6140 may include an upstream portion 6180 and a downstream portion 6200. The upstream portion of the shoulder 6140 may provide an abrupt or gradual, e.g., tapered, transition from the first portion 6020 of the inlet port 4020 to the downstream portion 6200 of the second portion 6120 of the inlet port 4020. The downstream portion 6200 of the shoulder 6140 may extend perpendicularly to the axis 6080 of the humidification chamber bore 5040. The downstream portion 6200 may define the minimum diameter of the second portion 6120 and/or the humidification chamber bore 5040. The downstream portion 6200 may define a nozzle 6220 within the humidification chamber bore 5040, e.g., at the outlet end 5060.

[0409] In some examples, a diameter of the second portion 6120 of the humidification chamber bore 5040 at the transition between the upstream surface 6160 and the edge 6240 may be no more than 3.3 mm, e.g., about 3.2 mm. A diameter of the humidification chamber bore 5040 at an upstream end of the downstream portion 6200 of the shoulder 6140, adjacent the upstream portion 6180, may be between about 41 % and 46%, preferably about 44%, of the diameter of the humidification chamber bore 5040 at the inlet end 5160 of the inlet port 4020. Such a narrowing of the humidification chamber bore 5040 at the shoulder 6140 may inhibit connection with ISO-compliant connectors having smaller widths or diameters without barbs. For example, such feedset connectors may be obstructed at the shoulder 6140 and thereby prevented or inhibited from entering the interior of the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020 through the inlet port 4020. [0410] In at least some examples, one or more, and preferably both of inner surface 6040 and the outer surface 6060 of the side wall 5020 are not threaded. In some examples, the inlet port 4020 is not threaded.

[0411] An inwardly extending shoulder 6140 may simplify manufacturing compared to alternative feedset connectors such as female fittings with threaded configurations. Fittings with threaded configurations may also increase the risk of unwanted particles building up and becoming trapped within the inlet port, in use.

[0412] An edge 6240 of the shoulder 6140, and thus the humidification chamber bore 5040, may taper from an upstream end of the downstream portion 6200, adjacent the upstream portion 6180, towards the outlet end 5060 of the inlet port 4020. In some examples, the edge 6240 may taper constantly at a rate of between about 0.8% and 5.3%, or between about 2% and 4%, e.g., at a rate of about 3.5%. This taper may improve moldability of the inlet port 4020 during manufacturing of the humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020. In other examples, the edge 6240 and base portion of the shoulder may not taper at all.

[0413] As illustrated in Figure 38, the shoulder 6140 may be annular when viewed along the axis 6080, e.g., from directly above.

[0414] As shown in Figure 39, a fillet 8020 may be provided at a transition between the side wall 5020 and the shoulder 6140. The fillet 8020 and/or the non-linear slope of the upper upstream surface 6160 of the shoulder 6140 may reduce the risk of unwanted particles building up and becoming trapped within the inlet port 4020 during use. The fillet 8020 and/or upstream surface 6160 may allow liquid and other particles travelling through the feedset connector 305, 3040 to be transported into the humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020 and reduce the chance of such particles becoming trapped in constricted areas of the inlet port 4020.

[0415] Figure 40 illustrates a further example of an inlet port 4020 according to the present disclosure. Except as described below or otherwise apparent from the drawings, the inlet port 4020 of Figure 40 may be similar to the inlet ports 4020 of Figures 36-39. The details and variants described above are intended to apply equally to this example, and vice versa. [0416] In the example inlet port 4020 of Figure 40, the minimum diameter of the humidification chamber bore 5040 at the first portion 6020 may be larger than the maximum diameter of the humidification chamber bore 5040 at the second portion 6120. In some examples, it may be larger by at least 100%, at least 110%, or at least 120%. The shoulder 6140 may provide an abrupt transition between the first portion 6020 and the second portion 6120. The shoulder 6140 may provide an abrupt constriction of the humidification chamber bore 5040. The upstream surface 6160 of the shoulder 6140 may be planar. The upstream surface may be perpendicular to the axis 6080. The height of the shoulder 6140, in the direction of the axis 6080, may be substantially uniform. The height of the shoulder 6140 may be greater than the thickness of the top 4040.

[0417] Figure 41 illustrates a further example of an inlet port 4020 according to the present disclosure. Except as described below or otherwise apparent from the drawings, the inlet port 4020 of Figure 40 may be similar to the inlet ports 4020 of Figures 36-40. The details and variants described above are intended to apply equally to this example, and vice versa.

[0418] As illustrated, in some examples the inlet port 4020 may include a plurality of shoulders 6140 that extend inwardly of the side wall 5020. In the illustrated example there are four shoulders 6140. In other examples, there may be two, three, five or more shoulders. The plurality of shoulders 6140 may be spaced apart from each other, e.g., circumferentially. The shoulders 6140 may be spaced equidistantly.

[0419] The plurality of shoulders 6140 may each be similar or different in shape. As illustrated, the shoulders 6140 may be part-annular.

[0420] In other examples, the inlet port 4020 may include multiple side walls arranged in a shape that is not annular, e.g., the inlet port 4020 may have four side walls arranged in a rectangular shape.

Feedset connector

[0421] Figure 42 illustrates the example feedset connector 305, 3040 of Figure 36 in further detail.

[0422] The feedset connector 305, 3040 is configured to be at inserted into the inlet port 4020. The feedset connector 305, 3040 may include a connector body 5080. The connector body 5080 may have a proximal end 5100 and a distal end 5120. A connector bore 5140 may extend through the connector body 5080 between the proximal end 5100 and the distal end 5120. The connector bore 5140 may have a circular shape when viewed along an axis of the feedset connector 305, 3040. A diameter or width of the connector bore 5140 may be substantially uniform along the length of the axis of the feedset connector 305, 3040. The connector bore 5140 may be substantially cylindrical. In other examples, the width or diameter of the connector bore 5140 may, at least in part, taper in a direction from the proximal end 5100 to the distal end 5120, or vice versa.

[0423] The connector body 5080 of the feedset connector 305, 3040 may have a proximal portion 11020 and a distal portion 11040.

[0424] The proximal portion 1 1020 of the feedset connector 305, 3040 may be configured to be fluidly coupled with the liquid conduit 306, 3060 (see Figure 36). The liquid conduit 306, 3060 in turn may be configured to be fluidly coupled with a water source, e.g., a sterile water bag (not shown). The opposing end of the liquid conduit 306, 3060 may be provided with a water source connector 308, 3080, e.g., a spike configured to pierce the water bag, as described above.

[0425] The distal portion 11040 of the feedset connector 305, 3040 may be configured to be fluidly coupled with the inlet port 4020.

[0426] At least part of the proximal portion 1 1020 may be configured to be inserted into the liquid conduit 306, 3060 (see Figure 25). The proximal portion 1 1020 may be configured to be received by the liquid conduit 306, 3060 with an interference fit, e.g., a friction fit. The proximal portion 11020 may have a hollow frustoconical shape. The proximal portion 1 1020 of the feedset connector 305, 3040 may taper towards the proximal end 5100 of the feedset connector 305, 3040. The taper may be, or include, a constant taper. The proximal portion 1 1020 of the feedset connector 305, 3040 may taper at a rate of between about 0.8% and 5.3%, or between about 2% and 4%, e.g., at a rate of about 3.5%. The feedset connector 305, 3040 may have an outside diameter or width at the proximal end 5100 of between about 4 mm and 5 mm, e.g., about 4.7 mm. This may maximize the surface area in contact between the proximal portion 11020 of the feedset connector 305, 3040 and the liquid conduit 306, 3060. [0427] At least part of the distal portion 11040 may be configured to be inserted into the humidification chamber bore 5040 of the inlet port 4020, in use. The distal portion 11040 may be configured to be received by the inlet port 4020 with an interference fit, e.g., a friction fit. The distal portion 1 1040 may have a hollow frustoconical shape. The distal portion 1 1040 of the feedset connector 305, 3040 may taper towards the distal end 5120 of the feedset connector 305, 3040. The taper may be, or include, a constant taper. The distal portion 11040 of the feedset connector 305, 3040 may taper at a rate of between about 4% and 8%, or between about 5% and 7%, e.g., at a rate of about 6%. The distal portion 1104 of the feedset connector 305, 3040 preferably tapers at substantially the same rate as the first portion 6020 of the humidification chamber bore 5040. The feedset connector 305, 3040 may have an outside diameter or width at the distal end 5120 of between about 6 mm and 8 mm, e.g., about 7 mm. This may maximize the surface area in contact between the distal portion 1 1040 of the feedset connector 305, 3040 and the side wall 5020 of the inlet port 4020. Such extended contact may provide a high enough friction force between the two components to establish a secure connection by friction fit. A high friction force between the feedset connector and the inlet port, e.g., of about 45 N, may mitigate leaks between the two components.

[0428] The feedset connector 305, 3040 may include a flange 1 1060 extending outwardly from the connector body. The flange 11060 may extend substantially perpendicularly with respect to the axis of the feedset connector 305, 3040. The flange 1 1060 may be located intermediate the proximal portion 1 1020 and the distal portion 11040. The flange 11060 may be configured to be gripped by a user while connecting and disconnecting the feedset connector 305, 3040 to and from the inlet port 4020 and/or the liquid conduit 306, 3060. In some examples, the flange 11060 may act as a stop when the feedset connector 305, 3040 is inserted into the inlet port 4020 and/or the liquid conduit 306, 3060. The flange 11060 may be configured to be axially spaced from the inlet port 4020 when the feedset connector 305, 3040 is inserted into the inlet port 4020. The flange 1 1060 may be substantially circular or annular in shape.

[0429] The flange 11060 may also extend towards the proximal end 5100 to define a circumferential channel 1 1080 about part of the proximal portion 1 1020. The circumferential channel 1 1080 may be configured to receive the end of the liquid conduit 306, 3060. The flange 1 1060 may be configured to frictionally engage the end of the liquid conduit 306, 3060. The circumferential channel 11080 may assist sealing and or retention between the feedset connector 305, 3040 and the liquid conduit 306, 3060.

[0430] The feedset connector 305, 3040 may include one or more tabs 1 1 100. The feedset connector 305, 3040 may include a pair of tabs 11 100. The tabs 1 1100 may be located equidistantly about the circumference of the flange 1 1060, e.g., a pair of tabs 11 100 may be diametrically opposed. The tabs 11 100 may extend perpendicularly with respect to the axis of the feedset connector 305, 3040. The tabs 1 1 100 may extend radially from the flange 11060. The tabs 1 1100 may be semi-circular or crescent-shaped. The tabs 1 1 100 may be configured to be gripped by a user while connecting and disconnecting the feedset connector 305, 3040 to and from the inlet port 4020 and/or the liquid conduit 306, 3060.

[0431] Figure 43 shows a side view of the feedset connector 305, 3040, including hidden details such as the connector bore 5140, the circumferential channel 1 1080. Also shown is the axis 12020 of the feedset connector 305, 3040. As illustrated, the proximal portion 1 1020, the flange 1 1060 and the distal portion 1 1040 may be coaxial.

[0432] Figures 44-47 show other possible examples of feedset connectors 305, 3040 for a water feedset assembly 302, 3020. Except as described below or otherwise apparent from the drawings, the example feedset connectors 305, 3040 may be similar to the feedset connector 305, 3040 of the preceding drawings. The details and variants described above are intended to apply to apply equally to these examples.

[0433] Figure 44 illustrates an example feedset connector 305, 3040 including a pair of tabs 1 1 100 with a different shape. The tabs 1 1100 in this example may have generally rectangular shape with rounded outer corners.

[0434] Figure 45 illustrates an example feedset connector 305, 3040 including a pair of tabs 1 1 100 with another different shape. The tabs 11 100 in this example may be semi- spherical or crescent-shaped.

[0435] Figure 46 illustrates an example feedset connector 305. 3040 including four tabs 1 1 100. The tabs 1 1100 in this example may each have an elongate shape with a rounded end. [0436] Figure 47 illustrates an example feedset connector 305, 3040 including three tabs 1 1 100. The tabs 1 1100 in this example may have the same shape as those of Figure 46, for example.

[0437] Different shaped tabs 11100 may assist the user in distinguishing the feedset connector 305, 3040 from other feedset connectors used in different medical applications. This visual and/or tactile differentiation may further contribute to reducing the risk of misconnections. Grooves and curvatures may also be provided on the tabs 11 100 to improve ergonomics and aid usability of the feedset connectors 305, 3040.

[0438] Figure 48 shows a longitudinal cross-section of the feedset connector 305, 3040 when inserted into the inlet port 4020.

[0439] The connector bore 5140 of the feedset connector 305, 3040 may have a width, e.g., diameter, of between about 1 .75 mm and 1 .95 mm, e.g., about 1 .9 mm. The diameter of the connector bore may be between about 50% and 70% or between about 55% and 65%, e.g., about 60%, of the diameter of the humidification chamber bore 5040 at the edge 6240 of the shoulder 6140. A humidification chamber bore 5040 with a larger diameter than the connector bore 5140 ensures that liquid can travel easily from the water bag through the feedset connector 305, 3040 and into the interior of the humidification chamber 104, 1 140.

[0440] The feedset connector 305, 3040 may engage the inlet port 4020 in an interference fit, e.g., a friction fit. In other examples, the inlet port 4020 may engage the feedset connector 305, 3040 in other forms of interference fit that provide a secure connection between the two components, e.g., a snap-fit.

[0441] The flange 11060 and/or tabs 11 100 may be configured to be spaced from the inlet end 5160 of the inlet port 4020 when the feedset connector 305, 3040 is fully inserted into the inlet port 4020.

[0442] The feedset connector 305, 3040 and the inlet port 4020 may be dimensioned so that only the first portion 6020 of the humidification chamber bore 5040 is configured to receive the feedset connector 305, 3040. The feedset connector 305, 3040 and the inlet port 4020 may be configured so that the first portion 6020 of the humidification chamber bore 5040 does not receive an entirety of the distal portion 1 1040 of the feedset connector 305, 3040. In some examples, the inlet port 4020 may receive between about 45% and 90%, between about 60% and 80%, or between about 65% and 75%, e.g., about 69%, of a length of the distal portion 11040 of the feedset connector 305, 3040.

[0443] The feedset connector 305, 3040 and inlet port 4020 may be dimensioned so that the distal end 5120 of the feedset connector 305, 3040 is spaced from the shoulder 6140 of the inlet port 4020. The distal end 5120 may be spaced from the shoulder 6140 of the inlet port 4020 by at least 1 mm. In some examples, the distal end 5120 may be spaced from the shoulder 6140 by between about 1 mm and 5 mm, e.g., by about 3 mm.

[0444] The extent to which the feedset connector 305, 3040 is engaged with the inlet port 4020 may determine the security of the connection between the feedset connector 305, 3040 and the inlet port 4020. If less than 45% of the distal portion 11040 is engaged with the inlet port 4020, a relatively large proportion of the feedset connector 305, 3040 will be positioned outside of the inlet port 4020. This may cause a user to suspect that the feedset connector 305, 3040 has been inserted insufficiently or incorrectly. If the feedset connector 305, 3040 engages too deeply with the inlet port 4020 and contacts the shoulder 6140 of the inlet port 4020, there may not be enough friction between the feedset connector 305, 3040 and the side wall 5020 of the inlet port 5060 to establish a secure connection. The level of engagement between the feedset connector 305, 3040 and the inlet port 4020 in the illustrated example may provide sufficient friction so that the force required to disconnect the feedset connector 305, 3040 from the inlet port 4020 is high enough to reduce the risk of accidental disconnection of the feedset connector 305, 3040 and the inlet port 4020, while also allowing a user to deliberately disconnect the two components when required.

Port Attachment

[0445] A port attachment may be provided to the humidification chamber. The port attachment may be configured to engage with the inlet port.

[0446] Figure 49 illustrates an example port attachment 18020. The port attachment 18020 may be configured to be coupled with the inlet port 4020 of the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020. The port attachment 18020 may be configured to selectively engage the inlet port 4020 in one of at least two different configurations. The two different configurations may include an adapting configuration and a closing configuration.

[0447] The port attachment 18020 may include an adaptor portion 18040. The adaptor portion 18040 may be dimensioned to be coupled with the inlet port 4020 of the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020. In particular, when the port attachment 18020 is selectively engaged with the inlet port 4020 in the adapting configuration. In some examples, the adaptor portion 18040 may be configured to be inserted in the humidification chamber bore 5040 of the inlet port 4020. The adaptor portion 18040 may have a first end and a second end. An adaptor bore 18060 may extend through the adaptor portion between the first end and the second end. The adaptor bore 18060 may have a circular shape when viewed along an axis of the adaptor portion. A width, e.g., diameter, of the adaptor bore 18060 may taper from the first end to the second end. The taper may be constant or may be variable. In other examples, the adaptor bore 18060 may be substantially cylindrical.

[0448] The first end of the adaptor portion may be configured to be fluidly coupled to a feedset connector. The second end of the adaptor portion 18040 may be configured to be fluidly coupled with the inlet port 4020.

[0449] The adaptor bore 18060 may be dimensioned to at least partially receive an alternative feedset connector which may be unable to securely engage with the inlet port 4020 directly. The port attachment 18020 may thereby enable use of a wider range of feedset connectors with the humidification chamber 104, 1 140, 33020.

[0450] In some examples, port attachment 18020 may be incompatible with ISO- compliant connectors. In other examples, the port attachment 18020 may be compatible with at least a subset of ISO-compliant connectors. The additional step of engaging the port attachment 18020 with the inlet port 4020 in the adapting configuration may be sufficient to mitigate the risk of misconnection with a medical device or accessory other than a feedset connector or water feedset assembly.

[0451] The adaptor portion 18040 may have a proximal portion and a distal portion. At least part of the proximal portion may be configured to receive the alternative feedset connector within the adaptor bore 18060. The proximal portion may be configured to receive the alternative feedset connector with an interference fit, e.g., a friction fit.

[0452] At least part of the distal portion may be configured to be inserted into the humidification chamber bore 5040 of the inlet port 4020, during use when in the adapting configuration.

[0453] The adaptor portion 18040 may include an adaptor flange 18080 extending outwardly from the adaptor portion 18040. The adaptor flange 18080 may extend substantially perpendicularly with respect to an axis of the adaptor portion 18040. The adaptor flange 18080 may be located at the first end of the adaptor portion 18040. The adaptor flange 18080 may be substantially circular or annular in shape.

[0454] The shape of the adaptor flange 18080 may be comparable to the shape of the flange 1 1060 of the feedset connector 305, 3040. Similarly shaped flanges 1 1060, 18080 may assist the user and provide a visual indication that the port attachment 18020 is to be gripped at the adaptor flange 18080 when in the adapting configuration. Similarity in shape may also indicate to the user that it is this part of the port attachment 18020 that is designed to be coupled to the feedset connector.

[0455] The adaptor portion 18040 may include one or more tabs 18100. The adaptor portion may include a pair of tabs 18100. The tabs 18100 may be located equidistantly about the circumference of the adaptor flange 18080, e.g., a pair of tabs 18100 may be diametrically opposed. The tabs 18100 may extend perpendicularly with respect to the axis of the adaptor portion. The tabs 18100 may extend radially from the adaptor flange 18080. The tabs 18100 may be semi-circular or crescent-shaped. [0456] The port attachment 18020 may include a closure portion 18120. The closure portion 18120 may be configured to be coupled with the inlet port 4020 of the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020. More particularly, the closure portion 18120 may couple with the inlet port 4020 of the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020 when the port attachment 18020 is selectively engaged with the inlet port 4020 in the closing configuration. The closure portion 18120 may be configured to close off, and preferably seal, the humidification chamber bore 5040. When liquid does not need to be transported into the interior of the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020, the port attachment 18020 may be coupled to the inlet port 4020 in the closing configuration. Doing so may mitigate the risk of misconnections and/or contamination.

[0457] In some examples, the closure portion 18120 may be configured as an end cap for the inlet port 4020. The closure portion 18120 may be configured to engage with the outer surface of the inlet port in the closing configuration. The closure portion 18120 may include a cavity 19020 (see Figure 49). The cavity 19020 may be a blind hole. The cavity 19020 may be configured to receive at least a portion of the inlet port 4020, e.g., at least a portion of the side wall 5020. The closure portion 18120 may be configured to engage the outer surface 6060 of the inlet port 4020 in an interference fit, e.g., a friction fit.

[0458] In other examples, the closure portion 18120 may be configured as a stopper for the inlet port 4020. In such examples, the closure portion 18120 may be configured to be inserted in the humidification chamber bore 5040 of the inlet port 4020.

[0459] The adaptor portion 18040 and the closure portion 18120 may be integrally formed. In some examples, as illustrated, the adaptor portion 18040 and the closure portion 18120 may be substantially perpendicular to each other.

[0460] In at least some examples, the adaptor portion 18040 and the closure portion 18120 may be configured so that they incapable of engaging the inlet port 4020 of the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020 simultaneously.

[0461] The port attachment 18020 may include a protruding rib 18140. The protruding rib 18140 may have a retaining hole 18160. The retaining hole 18160 may be configured to engage a tether to retain the port attachment 18020 to the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020 as described in further detail below. The protruding rib 18140 may be integrally formed with the adaptor portion 18040 and/or the closure portion 18120. [0462] Figure 50 shows a transverse cross-section of the port attachment 18020, on its side.

[0463] The closure portion 18120 may have a perimeter wall 19040 and an end wall 19060. The perimeter wall 19040 and the end wall 19060 may define the cavity 19020 in the closure portion 18120. The perimeter wall 19040 may have a first end and a second end. The first end of the perimeter wall 19040 may be connected to the end wall 19060. The perimeter wall 19040 may have a circular shape when viewed along an axis of the closure portion 18120. A width, e.g., diameter, of the cavity 19020 may taper from the second end to the first end. The cavity 19020 of the closure portion 18120 may be substantially frustoconical. In other examples, it may be substantially cylindrical.

[0464] Also shown are the axis 19080 of the closure portion 18120 and the axis 19100 of the adaptor portion 18040. As illustrated, in some examples the axes may be perpendicular to each other.

[0465] Figure 51 illustrates the port attachment 18020 engaged with the inlet port 4020 of the same humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020, but in the closing configuration. In this configuration, the closure portion 18120 closes or seals the humidification chamber bore 5040 of the inlet port 4020. The cavity 19020 may be coaxial with the humidification chamber bore 5040.

[0466] Figure 52 shows a cross-section through the port attachment 18020 when engaged with the inlet port 4020 of the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020 in the closing configuration, with the closure portion 18120 receiving the inlet port 4020.

[0467] The closure portion 18120 of the port attachment 18020 may engage the inlet port 4020 in an interference fit, e.g., a friction fit. In other forms, the inlet port 4020 may engage the closure portion 18120 in other forms of interference fit that provide a secure connection between the two components, e.g., a snap-fit.

[0468] As illustrated, the closure portion 18120 may be configured as an end cap for the inlet port 4020. At least part of the closure portion 18120 may be configured to be positioned around at least part of the side wall 5020 of the inlet port 4020. The perimeter wall 19040 of the closure portion 18120 may be configured to be positioned over the side wall 5020 of the inlet port 4020, such that at least a portion of the inlet port 4020 is received within the cavity 19020 of the closure portion. The closure portion 18120 may have a hollow frustoconical shape. The cavity 19020 of the closure portion 18120 may taper towards the end wall 19060 of the closure portion 18120. The taper may be, or include, a constant taper. The cavity 19020 of the closure portion 18120 preferably tapers at substantially the rate as the outer surface 6060 of the side wall 5020 of the inlet port 4020. The closure portion 18120 may be dimensioned so that a width, e.g., diameter, of the cavity 19020 is only slightly larger than the outer diameter or width of the inlet port 4020. This may increase the surface area in contact between the perimeter wall 19040 of the closure portion 18120 and the side wall 5020 of the inlet port 4020. Such extended contact may provide a high enough friction force between the two components to establish a secure connection by friction fit.

[0469] The closure portion 18120 and the inlet port 4020 may be dimensioned so that the end wall 19060 of the closure portion 18120 contacts the inlet end 5160 of the inlet port 4020 when the two components are engaged. In some examples, the end wall may be spaced from the inlet end 5160 of the inlet port 4020.

[0470] In some examples, a height of the perimeter wall 19040 of the closure portion 18120 may be at least 80%, or at least 90%, of the height of the side wall 5020 of the inlet port 4020. When fully engaged with the inlet port 4020 as shown in Figure 52, the perimeter wall 19040 may extend down to adjacent the fillet 6100 between the side wall 5020 and the top 4040 of the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020.

[0471] Figure 53 illustrates a further example of a humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020 including the port attachment 18020.

[0472] The port attachment 18020 is shown engaged with the inlet port 4020 of the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020 in the adapting configuration. In this configuration, the adaptor portion 18040 may be at least partially received by the humidification chamber bore 5040 of the inlet port 4020. The adaptor bore 18060 may be coaxial with the humidification chamber bore 5040.

[0473] Except as described below or otherwise apparent from the drawings, the example humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020 of at least Figure 3 may be similar to the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020 of Figure 25. The details and variants described above are intended to apply equally to this example, and vice versa.

[0474] In this example, both the gases inlet 113, 1180 and the gases outlet 114, 1200 are offset from a center of the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020. The gases inlet 113, 1180 and the gases outlet 114, 1200 may be located on opposing sides of the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020, e.g., the top 4040. [0475] A tethering mount 20020 may extend outwardly, e.g., upwardly, from the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020, e.g., the top 4040. The tethering mount 20020 may have a retaining hole (hidden) similar to that of the protruding rib 18140.

[0476] A tether 20040 may extend between the tethering mount 20020 and the port attachment 18020. The tether 20040 may engage the respective retaining holes 18160 of the tethering mount 20020 and the protruding rib 18140. The tether 20040 may be formed from a resilient material. The tether 20040 may be forced through the respective retaining holes 18160. The tether 20040 may elastically recover to engage the tethering mount 20020 and/or protruding rib 18140 in an interference fit. The tether 20040 may retain the port attachment 1802 to the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020 to avoid it being lost.

[0477] Figure 54 illustrates the port attachment 18020 engaged with the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020 in the in the adapting configuration, and an alternative feedset connector 23020 coupled to the adaptor portion 18040 of the port attachment 18020.

[0478] The alternative feedset connector 23020 in turn may be configured to be fluidly coupled with a liquid conduit that is fluidly coupled to a water source (not shown), similarly to the feedset connector 305, 3040 as described above.

[0479] Figure 55 shows a longitudinal cross-section through the port attachment 18020 when engaged with the inlet port 4020 of the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020 in the adapting configuration, with the adaptor portion 18040 inserted into the humidification chamber bore 5040.

[0480] The distal portion of the adaptor portion 18040 may be configured to be received by the inlet port 4020 with an interference fit, e.g., a friction fit. In other examples, the inlet port may engage the adaptor portion in other forms of interference fit that provide a secure connection between the two components, e.g., a snap-fit.

[0481] The distal portion may have a hollow frustoconical shape. The distal portion may taper towards the second end of the adaptor portion 18040. The taper may be, or include, a constant taper. The distal portion of the adaptor portion 18040 may taper at a rate of between about 4% and 8%, or between about 5% and 7%, e.g., at a rate of about 6%. The distal portion of the adaptor portion 18040 preferably tapers at substantially the same rate as the first portion 6020 of the humidification chamber bore 5040. The adaptor portion 18040 may have an outside diameter or width at the second end of between about 6 mm and 8 mm, e.g., of about 7 mm. This may increase the surface area in contact between the distal portion of the adaptor portion 18040 and the side wall 5020 of the inlet port 4020. Such extended contact may provide a high enough friction force between the two components to establish a secure connection by friction fit. A secure connection may mitigate leaks between the two components.

[0482] The adaptor flange 18080 (and/or the tabs 18100) may be configured to be gripped by a user while connecting and/or disconnecting the adaptor portion 18040 to and from the inlet port 4020 and/or the alternative feedset connectors 23020 (omitted from Figure 55). In some examples, the adaptor flange 18080 may act as a stop when the adaptor portion 18040 is inserted into the inlet port 4020 and/or receives the alternative feedset connector 23020.

[0483] As illustrated, the adaptor flange 18080 and/or tabs 18100 may be configured to be spaced from the inlet end 5160 of the inlet port 4020 when the adaptor portion 18040 is fully inserted into the inlet port 4020.

[0484] The adaptor portion 18040 and the inlet port 4020 may be dimensioned so that only the first portion of the humidification chamber bore 5040 is configured to receive the adaptor portion 18040. The adaptor portion 18040 and the inlet port 4020 may be configured so that the first portion 6020 of the humidification chamber bore 5040 does not receive an entirety of the distal portion of the adaptor portion.

[0485] As illustrated, the adaptor portion 18040 and the inlet port 4020 may be dimensioned so that the second end of the adaptor portion 18040 is spaced from the shoulder 6140 of the inlet port 4020. In some examples, the second end of the adaptor portion 18040 may be spaced from the shoulder 6140 of the inlet port 4020 by at least 1 mm. In some examples, the second end of the adaptor portion 18040 may be configured to be spaced from the shoulder 6140 by between about 1 mm and 5mm, e.g., by about 3 mm.

[0486] The extent to which the adaptor portion 18040 is engaged with the inlet port 4020 may determine the security of the connection between the adaptor portion 18040 and the inlet port 4020. If less than 45% of the distal portion is engaged with the inlet port 4020, a relatively large proportion of the adaptor portion 18040 will be positioned outside of the inlet port 4020. This may cause a user to suspect that the adaptor portion 18040 has been inserted insufficiently or incorrectly.

[0487] If the adaptor portion 18040 engages too deeply with the inlet port 4020 and contacts the shoulder 6140 of the inlet port 4020, there may not be enough friction force present between the adaptor portion 18040 and the side wall 5020 of the inlet port 4020 to establish a secure connection. The level of engagement between the adaptor portion 18040 and the inlet port 4020 in the illustrated example may provide sufficient friction so that the force required to disconnect the adaptor portion 18040 from the inlet port 4020 is high enough to reduce the risk of accidental disconnection of the adaptor portion 18040 and the inlet port 4020, while also allowing a user to deliberately disconnect the two components when required.

[0488] Figure 56 illustrates another example of a port attachment 18020. Except as described below or otherwise apparent from the drawings, the port attachment 18020 of Figure 25 may be similar to the port attachment 18020 of Figure 49. The details and variants described above are intended to apply equally to this example, and vice versa.

[0489] The port attachment 18020 in this example may be configured as a stopper for the inlet port 4020. The closure portion 18120 may be configured to be inserted within the humidification chamber bore 5040 of the inlet port 4020. The cavity may be omitted from the closure portion 18120. The closure portion 18120 may be either hollow or solid.

[0490] The closure portion 18120 may have a first end and a second end. At least a part of the closure portion 18120 may be configured to be inserted into the humidification chamber bore 5040 of the inlet port 4020, during use when the port attachment 18020 is in the closing configuration. The closure portion 18120 may be configured to be received by the inlet port 4020 with an interference fit, e.g., a friction fit. The closure portion 18120 may have a frustoconical shape. A width, e.g., diameter, of the closure portion 18120 may taper towards the second end of the closure portion 18120. The taper may be, or include, a constant taper. The closure portion 18120 may taper at a rate of between about 4% and 8%, or between about 5% and 7%, e.g., at a rate of about 6%. The closure portion 18120 preferably tapers at substantially the same rate as the first portion 6020 of the humidification chamber bore 5040. The closure portion 18120 may have an outside diameter or width at the second end of between about 6 mm and 8 mm, e.g., about 7 mm. This may increase the surface area in contact between the closure portion 1812 and the side wall 5020 of the inlet port 4020. Such extended contact may provide a high enough friction force between the two components to establish a secure connection by friction fit.

[0491] Figure 57 illustrates another example of a port attachment 18020. The port attachment 18020 may have a protruding rib 18140. The protruding rib 18140 may have a retaining hole 18160. The retaining hole 18160 may be configured to engage a tether to retain the port attachment 18020 to the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020 as described in further detail above. The retaining hole 18160 may be located in a lower corner of the protruding rib 18140 as for example shown in Figure 57. Additionally, or alternatively, the retaining hole 18160 may be located adjacent the adaptor portion 18040.

[0492] The adaptor portion 18040 may comprise features as disclosed with respect to Figures 42-56.

[0493] The protruding rib 18140 may be integrally formed with the adaptor portion 18040 and/or the closure portion 18120.

[0494] The protruding rib 18140 may function as a separation tool (for example similar to separation tool 411 ) for assisting with the separation of the main body 110 from the base 111 of the chamber. The protruding rib 18140 may be configured to engage with one or more removal feature(s) (for example removal aid feature 170 and/or removal feature 25100).

[0495] The protruding rib 18140 may be configured to engage with the removal aid feature 170 of the humidification chamber for improved ease of separation of the main body 110 from the base 111 of the humidification chamber (for example as shown in Figure 24). Additionally, or alternatively, the protruding rib 18140 may be configured to engage with the removal feature 25100 as shown in at least Figures 26-28. The removal feature 25100 may be configured to aid disassembly of the hollow body from the base (i.e. the surround and the heat conductive body 4120, 25020) of the humidification chamber 104, 1140, 33020.

[0496] A tether which connects the humidification chamber to the port attachment 18020 (for example by connection between a tethering mount and the retaining hole 18160) may be of a sufficient length that the port attachment 18020 can be manipulated by the user so that the protruding rib 18140 can be used as a separation tool (for example by engagement with one or more removal features). The length may be dependent on, for example, the location of the tethering mount, the dimensions of the chamber, and the location of the removal features). For example, if the tether is not of sufficient length, a user may not be able to engage the protruding rib 18140 and the one or more removal features. [0497] As shown for example in Figure 57, the protruding rib 18140 is oriented substantially perpendicular to the adaptor portion 18040. Alternatively, the protruding rib 18140 may be oriented substantially parallel to the adaptor portion 18040.

[0498] The protruding rib 18140 may extend across the entire width of the closure portion 18120 (for example the diameter of the circular closure portion 18120 as shown in Figure 57) or extend at least part way across the width of the closure portion 18120.

Glossary

[0499] "ISO-compliant connector" refers to a connector complying with any of the following standards of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference:

• ISO 80369-3:2016 — Small-bore connectors for liquids and gases in healthcare applications — Part 3: Connectors for enteral applications;

• IEC 80369-5:2016 — Small-bore connectors for liquids and gases in healthcare applications — Part 5: Connectors for limb cuff inflation applications;

• ISO 80369-6:2016 — Small bore connectors for liquids and gases in healthcare applications — Part 6: Connectors for neuraxial applications; and

• ISO 80369-7:2021 — Small-bore connectors for liquids and gases in healthcare applications — Part 7: Connectors for intravascular or hypodermic applications.

[0500] Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words "comprise", "comprising", and the like, are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense, that is to say, in the sense of "including, but not limited to."

[0501] Where, in the foregoing description reference has been made to integers or components having known equivalents thereof, those integers or components are herein incorporated as if individually set forth.

[0502] The disclosed methods, apparatus and systems may also be said broadly to comprise the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the disclosure, individually or collectively, in any or all combinations of two or more of said parts, elements or features. [0503] Reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that that prior art forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavor in any country in the world.

[0504] Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the disclosure as if it were individually recited herein. Additionally, each sub-range of values within ranges of values is incorporated into the disclosure as if it were individually recited herein.

[0505] Although the present disclosure has been described in terms of certain embodiments, other embodiments apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art also are within the scope of this disclosure. Thus, various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. For instance, various components may be repositioned as desired. Moreover, not all of the features, aspects and advantages are necessarily required to practice the present disclosure. Accordingly, the scope of the present disclosure is intended to be defined only by the claims that follow.

CLAUSES

1 . A humidification chamber configured to be used with a breathing circuit assembly, the humidification chamber comprising: a main body; a base connected to the main body; a cavity at least partially defined by the body and the base to hold a volume of liquid; an inlet into the cavity; an outlet out of the cavity; and a circuit end cap configured to receive a breathing circuit component of the breathing circuit assembly.

2. The humidification chamber according to the preceding clause, wherein the circuit end cap is configured to occlude an end of the breathing circuit component. 3. The humidification chamber according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the circuit end cap is integrally formed with the main body.

4. The humidification chamber according to the preceding clause, wherein the circuit end cap is not removable from the main body.

5. The humidification chamber according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the circuit end cap is provided on the main body exterior to and isolated from the cavity.

6. The humidification chamber according to the previous clause, wherein the circuit end cap does not form a passageway into the cavity.

7. The humidification chamber according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the circuit end cap protrudes from the main body.

8. The humidification chamber according to the preceding clause, wherein the circuit end cap extends generally vertically from a top surface of the main body.

9. The humidification chamber according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the circuit end cap comprises a height of at least 5mm.

10. The humidification chamber according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the circuit end cap comprises an outer diameter between 8mm and 30mm.

11. The humidification chamber according to the preceding clause, wherein the circuit end cap comprises an outer diameter of 12 mm.

12. The humidification chamber according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the circuit end cap comprises an outer diameter substantially the same as an inner diameter of the breathing circuit component it is configured to receive.

13. The humidification chamber according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein a sealing connection is formed between a sealing surface of the circuit end cap and the breathing circuit component. 14. The humidification chamber according to the preceding clause, wherein the sealing surface of the circuit end cap is on an outer perimeter of the circuit end cap configured to engage with an interior surface of the breathing circuit component.

15. The humidification chamber according to any one of clauses 12 to 14, wherein the sealing connection is tapered.

16. The humidification chamber according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the circuit end cap size and geometry are configured to receive the breathing circuit component via a friction fit.

17. The humidification chamber according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the circuit end cap comprises a generally cylindrical shape.

18. The humidification chamber according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the circuit end cap comprises a generally smooth outer perimeter.

19. The humidification chamber according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the circuit end cap is hollow.

20. humidification chamber according to any one of clauses 1 to 18, wherein the circuit end cap is solid.

21. The humidification chamber according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the circuit end cap comprises a generally flat top surface.

22. The humidification chamber according to any one of clauses 1 to 20, wherein the circuit end cap comprises a recessed top surface.

23. The humidification chamber according to any one of clauses 1 to 20, wherein the circuit end cap comprises a ribbed top surface.

24. The humidification chamber according to the preceding clause, wherein the ribbed top surface comprises a cross-shape. 25. The humidification chamber according to clause 23, wherein the ribbed top surface comprises a Y-shape.

26. The humidification chamber according to any one of clauses 8 to 25, wherein the circuit end cap is located at or towards a central region on the top surface of the main body.

27. The humidification chamber according to any one of clauses 5 to 26, wherein the circuit end cap is located in a region between the inlet and outlet on the top surface of the main body.

28. The humidification chamber according to any one of clauses 5 to 27, wherein the circuit end cap is offset from centre on the top surface of the main body.

29. The humidification chamber according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the inlet comprises an inlet port defining a passage into the cavity of the humidification chamber and the outlet comprises an outlet port defining a passage out of the cavity of the humidification chamber and the inlet and outlet ports are configured to provide connections to a supply conduit and inspiratory conduit respectively.

30. The humidification chamber according to any one of the preceding clauses, further comprising a liquid fill port.

31. The humidification chamber according to the preceding clause, further comprising a plug configured to occlude the liquid fill port.

32. The humidification chamber according to the preceding clause, further comprising a tether configured to retain the plug to the main body.

33. The humidification chamber according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the main body comprises a generally rounded shape with generally smooth sides.

34. The humidification chamber according to the preceding clause, wherein the main body comprises a dome-shape. The humidification chamber according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the main body and base are removably attached to one another. The humidification chamber according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein humidification chamber further comprises a sealing element between the main body and the base. The humidification chamber according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the circuit end cap is configured to support a Y-piece connector. The humidification chamber according to the preceding clause, wherein the circuit end cap is configured to support a patient- end of the Y-piece connector. A humidification system comprising: a humidification chamber as clauseed in any one of the preceding clauses; and a breathing circuit assembly for providing pathways for gases to travel. The humification system according to the preceding clause, further comprising a heater base configured to heat at least some of the contents of the humification chamber. The humification system according to any one of clauses 39 or 40, wherein the breathing circuit assembly comprises a supply conduit, an inspiratory conduit, and an expiratory conduit. The humification system according to the preceding clause, wherein the breathing circuit assembly comprises a Y-piece connector configured to connect the inspiratory conduit and the expiratory conduit. The humification system according to the preceding clause, wherein the circuit end cap is sized and configured to receive the Y-piece connector. The humidification chamber or system according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the humidification chamber comprises a chamfered edge portion. 45. The humidification chamber or system according to the preceding clause, wherein the chamfered edge portion is located at least partially on a top surface of the humidification chamber.

46. The humidification chamber or system according to any one of clauses 44 or 45, wherein the humidification chamber comprises more than one chamfered edge portion.

47. The humidification chamber or system according to the preceding clause, wherein the humidification chamber comprises a pair of chamfered edge portions located on opposing sides of the chamber.

48. The humidification chamber or system according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the humidification chamber comprises a removal aid feature being a cut-out on a bottom rim of the humidification chamber.

49. The humidification chamber or system according to the preceding clause, wherein the removal aid feature is a slot.

50. The humidification chamber or system according to any one of clauses 47 to 49, wherein the removal aid feature is located on a lower edge of the main body.

51. The humidification chamber or system according to any one of clauses 47 to 51 , wherein the removal aid feature does not extend to a top edge of a rim on the bottom of the humidification chamber.

52. The humidification system according to any one of clauses 39 to 51 , further comprising a separation tool for assisting with the separation of the main body from the base of the humidification chamber.

53. The humidification system according to the preceding clause, wherein the separation tool is configured to engage with the removal aid feature of the humidification chamber.

54. The humidification system according to any one of clauses 52 or 53, wherein the separation tool is substantially flat. 55. The humidification system according to the preceding clause, wherein the separation has a flat bottom region and a ramped top surface region.

56. The humidification chamber or system according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the outlet is located further from a side wall of the humidification chamber than the inlet.

57. The humidification chamber or system according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the outlet is located closer to the centre than a side wall of the chamber.

58. A breathing circuit kit for use in a humidified respiratory assistance system, the breathing circuit kit comprising: a humidification chamber configured to contain a liquid, the humidification chamber comprising an inlet port for supplying the liquid to an interior of the humidification chamber in use, the inlet port comprising: a humidification chamber bore providing a passage for the liquid from an inlet end at an exterior of the humidification chamber to an outlet end at the interior of the humidification chamber; a side wall defining a first portion of the humidification chamber bore, the first portion of the humidification chamber bore tapering, at least in part, toward the outlet end of the humidification chamber bore; and a shoulder defining a second portion of the humidification chamber bore, the shoulder extending inwardly of the side wall; a liquid conduit; and a feedset connector comprising a proximal portion and a distal portion, the proximal portion and the distal portion at least in part defining a connector bore extending from a proximal end of the feedset connector to a distal end of the feedset connector, wherein the proximal portion is configured to couple with the liquid conduit and the distal portion is configured to couple with the inlet port, in use. 59. The breathing circuit kit of clause 58, wherein a diameter of the second portion of the humidification chamber bore is smaller than an external diameter of an ISO-compliant connector.

60. The breathing circuit kit of clause 58 or 59, wherein a diameter of the second portion of the humidification chamber bore is larger than an external diameter of a first ISO-compliant connector and smaller than an external diameter of a second ISO-compliant connector, wherein the first ISO-compliant connector is different to the second ISO-compliant connector.

61. The breathing circuit kit of any one of clauses 58 to 60, the shoulder at least in part extending in a direction perpendicular to an axis of the humidification chamber bore.

62. The breathing circuit kit of any one of clauses 58 to 61, the first portion of the humidification chamber bore at least in part comprising a constant taper, preferably tapering at a rate of between about 5% and 7%, more preferably tapering at a rate of about 6%.

63. The breathing circuit kit of any one of clauses 58 to 62, wherein the distal portion of the feedset connector is configured to couple with the inlet port with an interference fit.

64. The breathing circuit kit of any one of clauses 58 to 63, wherein the inlet port is configured so that a first ISO-compliant connector contacts the shoulder when the first ISO- compliant connector is inserted into the inlet port, in use.

65. The breathing circuit kit of any one of clauses 58 to 64, wherein the first portion of the humidification chamber bore is configured to at least in part receive the distal portion, preferably between about 45% and 90% of the distal portion, more preferably between about 65% and 75% of the distal portion, and most preferably about 69% of the distal portion.

66. The breathing circuit kit of any one of clauses 58 to 65, wherein the inlet port and/or the feedset connector are configured so that the feedset connector does not contact the shoulder when the feedset connector is engaged with the inlet port, in use. 67. The breathing circuit kit of any one of clauses 58 to 66, wherein the inlet port and/or the feedset connector are configured so that the feedset connector is spaced from the shoulder by at least 1 mm, preferably by between about 1 mm and 5 mm, and more preferably by about 3 mm, when the feedset connector is engaged with the inlet port, in use.

68. The breathing circuit kit of any one of clauses 58 to 67, an exterior of the feedset connector at least in part tapering towards the distal end of the feedset connector, preferably at least in part comprising a constant taper, more preferably tapering at a rate of between about 5% and 7%, more preferably tapering at a rate of about 6%, and most preferably tapering at a rate substantially the same as the first portion of the humidification chamber bore.

69. The breathing circuit kit of any one of clauses 58 to 68, at least one, and preferably both, of the side wall and the shoulder comprising an annular shape in cross-section through an axis of the humidification chamber bore.

70. The breathing circuit kit of any one of clauses 58 to 69, the shoulder tapering, at least in part, towards the outlet end of the inlet port, preferably the shoulder at least in part comprising a variable taper.

71 . The breathing circuit kit of any one of clauses 58 to 70, wherein an outside diameter of the distal portion at the distal end of the feedset connector is between about 6 mm and 8 mm, preferably about 7 mm.

72. The breathing circuit kit of any one of clauses 58 to 71 , wherein the first portion of the humidification chamber bore has one or more of: a longitudinal length of between about 8.5 mm and 9 mm, preferably about 8.5 mm; a minimum diameter of between about 6.7 mm and 6.9 mm, preferably about 6.7 mm or 6.8 mm; a maximum diameter of between about 7.2 mm and 7.4 mm, preferably about 7.3 mm; a diameter which tapers by between about 0.3 mm and 0.7 mm, preferably about 0.5 mm or 0.6 mm; and/or a minimum diameter which is substantially equal to, or larger than, a maximum diameter of the second portion of the humidification chamber bore.

73. The breathing circuit kit of any one of clauses 58 to 72, the humidification chamber bore tapering, at least in part, from an upstream end of the second portion toward the outlet end of the inlet port.

74. The breathing circuit kit of any one of clauses 58 to 73, wherein the second portion of the humidification chamber bore has one or more of: a maximum diameter of no more than about 3.3 mm; a diameter, at a transition between an upstream surface and an edge of the shoulder, of no more than 3.3 mm, e.g., about 3.2 mm; a diameter, preferably at an upstream end of the second portion, which is between about 41 % and 46%, preferably about 44%, of a diameter of the humidification chamber bore at the inlet end of the inlet port; and/or a diameter, preferably at the upstream end of the second portion, which is between about 3.1 mm and 3.3 mm, preferably about 3.2 mm.

75. The breathing circuit kit of any one of clauses 58 to 74, wherein the side wall comprises an outer surface that diverges outwardly from the inlet end of the inlet port.

76. The breathing circuit kit of any one of clauses 58 to 75, wherein the side wall of the inlet port is not threaded.

77. The breathing circuit kit of any one of clauses 58 to 76, wherein the side wall protrudes upwardly from a top of the humidification chamber.

78. The breathing circuit kit of any one of clauses 58 to 77, comprising any one or more of: a humidifier supply tube configured to supply a flow of respiratory gases to a gases inlet of the humidification chamber; a patient supply tube configured to receive the flow of respiratory gases from an outlet of the humidification chamber and convey the flow of respiratory gases towards a patient; an expiratory tube configured to receive expiratory gases from the patient and convey the expiratory gases away from the patient; and a wye-piece configured to be fluidly coupled with the patient supply tube, the expiratory tube and a patient interface.

79. The breathing circuit kit of any one of clauses 58 to 78 comprising a port attachment, the port attachment comprising an adaptor portion and a closure portion, the adaptor portion and the closure portion selectively engageable with the inlet port to respectively: adapt the inlet port for fluid coupling with an alternative feedset connector of a different size and/or shape to a feedset connector configured to couple directly to the inlet port, or close off the inlet port.

80. The breathing circuit kit of clause 79, the adaptor portion comprising a first end portion and a second end portion, the second end portion configured to engage the inlet port, the first end portion and the second end portion at least in part defining an adaptor bore extending through the adaptor portion to provide a fluid flow path through the port attachment, at least one, and preferably both, of the adaptor portion and the adaptor bore tapering, at least in part, from the first end portion to the second end portion, and the closure portion preferably being integrally formed with the adaptor portion.

81. The breathing circuit kit of clause 79 or 80, wherein the port attachment is tethered to the humidification chamber. 82. A humidification chamber for use in a humidified respiratory assistance system, the humidification chamber configured to contain a liquid and comprising an inlet port for supplying the liquid to an interior of the humidification chamber in use, the inlet port comprising: a side wall defining a first portion of a humidification chamber bore providing a passage for the liquid from an inlet end at an exterior of the humidification chamber to an outlet end at the interior of the humidification chamber, the first portion of the humidification chamber bore tapering, at least in part, toward the outlet end of the inlet port, and a shoulder defining a second portion of the humidification chamber bore, the shoulder extending inwardly of the side wall.

83. The humidification chamber of clause 82, wherein a diameter of the second portion of the humidification chamber bore is smaller than an external diameter of an ISO-compliant connector.

84. The humidification chamber of clause 82 or 83, wherein a diameter of the second portion of the humidification chamber bore is larger than an external diameter of a first ISO- compliant connector and smaller than an external diameter of a second ISO-compliant connector, wherein the first ISO-compliant connector is different to the second ISO- compliant connector.

85. The humidification chamber of any one of clauses 82 to 84, the shoulder at least in part extending in a direction perpendicular to an axis of the humidification chamber bore.

86. The humidification chamber of any one of clauses 82 to 85, the first portion of the humidification chamber bore at least in part comprising a constant taper, preferably tapering at a rate of between about 5% and 7%, more preferably tapering at a rate of about 6%.

87. The humidification chamber of any one of clauses 82 to 86, at least one, and preferably both, of the side wall and the shoulder comprising an annular shape in cross-section through an axis of the humidification chamber bore. 88. The humidification chamber of any one of clauses 82 to 87, the shoulder tapering, at least in part, towards the outlet end of the inlet port, the shoulder preferably comprising a variable taper.

89. The humidification chamber of any one of clauses 82 to 88, wherein the first portion of the humidification chamber bore has any one or more of: a longitudinal length of between about 8.5 mm and 9 mm, preferably about 8.5 mm; a minimum diameter of between about 6.7 mm and 6.9 mm, preferably about 6.7 mm or 6.8 mm; a maximum diameter of between about 7.2 mm and 7.4 mm, preferably about 7.3 mm; a diameter which tapers by between about 0.3 mm and 0.7 mm, preferably about 0.5 mm or 0.6 mm; and/or a minimum diameter which is substantially equal to, or larger than, a maximum diameter of the second portion of the humidification chamber bore.

90. The humidification chamber of any one of clauses 82 to 89, wherein the humidification chamber bore tapers, at least in part, from a first end of the second portion toward the outlet end of the inlet port.

91 . The humidification chamber of any one of clauses 82 to 90, wherein the second portion of the humidification chamber bore has any one or more of: a maximum diameter of no more than about 3.3 mm; a diameter, at a transition between an upstream surface and an edge of the shoulder, of no more than 3.3 mm, e.g., about 3.2 mm; a diameter, preferably at an upstream end of the second portion, which is between about 41 % and 46%, preferably about 44%, of a diameter of the humidification chamber bore at the inlet end of the inlet port; and/or a diameter, preferably at the upstream end of the second portion, which is between about 3.1 mm and 3.3 mm, preferably about 3.2 mm.

92. The humidification chamber of any one of clauses 82 to 91 , wherein the side wall comprises an outer surface that diverges outwardly from the inlet end of the inlet port.

93. The humidification chamber of any one of clauses 82 to 92, wherein the side wall of the inlet port is not threaded.

94. The humidification chamber of any one of clauses 82 to 93, wherein the side wall of the inlet port protrudes upwardly from a top of the humidification chamber.

95. The humidification chamber of any one of clauses 82 to 94 comprising a port attachment, the port attachment comprising an adaptor portion and a closure portion, the adaptor portion and the closure portion selectively engageable with the inlet port to respectively: adapt the inlet port for fluid coupling with an alternative feedset connector of a different size and/or shape to a feedset connector configured to couple directly to the inlet port, or close off the inlet port.

96. The humidification chamber of clause 95, the adaptor portion comprising a first end portion and a second end portion, the second end portion configured to engage the inlet port, the first end portion and the second end portion at least in part defining an adaptor bore extending through the adaptor portion to provide a fluid flow path through the port attachment, at least one, and preferably both, of the adaptor portion and the adaptor bore tapering, at least in part, from the first end portion to the second end portion, and the closure portion preferably being integrally formed with the adaptor portion.

97. The humidification chamber of clause 95 or 96, wherein the adaptor portion is tethered to the humidification chamber.

98. A water feedset assembly for use in a respiratory assistance system, the water feedset assembly comprising: a liquid conduit; a water source connector, e.g., a spike, configured to be fluidly coupled to a first end of the liquid conduit; and a feedset connector comprising a proximal portion and a distal portion, the proximal portion and the distal portion at least in part defining a connector bore extending from a proximal end of the feedset connector to a distal end of the feedset connector to provide a fluid flow path through the feedset connector, wherein the proximal portion is configured to be fluidly coupled to a second end of the liquid conduit, and the distal portion is configured to be fluidly coupled to an inlet port of a humidification chamber of the respiratory assistance system, in use.

99. The water feedset assembly of clause 98, the feedset connector at least in part tapering towards the distal end of the feedset connector, preferably at least in part comprising a constant taper, more preferably tapering at a rate of between about 5% and 7%, more preferably tapering at a rate of about 6%.

100.The water feedset assembly of clause 98 or 99, wherein an outside diameter of feedset connector at the distal end is between about 6 mm and 8 mm, preferably about 7 mm.

101. The water feedset assembly of any one of clauses 98 to 100, at least one of the proximal portion and the distal portion comprising a substantially frustoconical shape, and the feedset connector preferably comprising a flange located intermediate the proximal portion and the distal portion.

102. A port attachment for use with a humidification chamber in a respiratory assistance system, the port attachment comprising: an adaptor portion, the adaptor portion comprising a first end portion and a second end portion, the first end portion and the second end portion defining an adaptor bore extending through the adaptor portion to provide a fluid flow path through the port attachment, the second end portion configured to be selectively engaged with an inlet port of the humidification chamber, and at least one, and preferably both, of the adaptor portion and the adaptor bore tapering, at least in part, from the first end portion to the second end portion; and a closure portion integrally formed with the adaptor portion, the closure portion configured to be selectively engaged with the inlet port of the humidification chamber to close or seal the inlet port in use.

103. A port attachment for use with a humidification chamber in a respiratory assistance system, the humidification chamber comprising an inlet port configured to engage with a first feedset connector, the port attachment comprising an adaptor portion and a closure portion, and the port attachment configured to be selectively engageable with an inlet port of the humidification chamber in one of an adapting configuration and a closing configuration, wherein: in the adapting configuration the adaptor portion is configured to engage with, and fluidly couple, the inlet port and a second feedset connector which differs to the first feedset connector, and in the closing configuration the closure portion is configured to engage the inlet port to seal or close it. 04. The humidification chamber of any one of clauses 79-81, 95-97, or 102-103, wherein the port attachment comprises a protruding rib, and the protruding rib is configured to function as a separation tool. 05. The humidification chamber of clause 104 wherein the protruding rib is configured to engage with one or more removal feature(s) of a main body and/or base of the humidification chamber, to aid in disassembly of the main body from the base of the humidification chamber. 06. The humidification chamber of any one of the preceding clauses for respiratory or surgical humidification, comprising: a hollow body, comprising an inlet port and an outlet port; a heat conductive body; and a sealing element configured to provide a seal between the hollow body and the heat conductive body, when assembled; wherein the heat conductive body is configured to be removably attachable to the hollow body and has a thermal capacity of less than about 30 joules per kelvin (J/K), less than about 27 J/K, between about 16 J/K and 27 J/K, between about 19 J/K and 24 J/K, between about 20 J/K and 22 J/K, about 21 J/K, or between about 20.7 J/K and 21 .2 J/K.

107. The humidification chamber of clause 106 wherein the heat conductive body comprises a thickness of between about 0.2 mm and 1 .2 mm, between about 0.2 mm and 1 mm, between about 0.4 mm and 0.9 mm, between about 0.6 mm and 0.8 mm, or about 0.7 mm

108. The humidification chamber of clause 106 or 107 wherein the humidification chamber comprises a surround, the surround integral with, attached to, or attachable with the heat conductive body and configured to engage a base unit of a humidifier, in use.

109. The humidification chamber of clauses 108 wherein the surround comprises the one or more removal features configured to aid disassembly of the humidification chamber.

Claims

1. A humidification chamber configured to be used with a breathing circuit assembly, the humidification chamber comprising: a main body; a base connected to the main body; a cavity at least partially defined by the body and the base to hold a volume of liquid; an inlet into the cavity; an outlet out of the cavity; and a circuit end cap configured to receive a breathing circuit component of the breathing circuit assembly.

2. The humidification chamber according to the preceding claim, wherein the circuit end cap is configured to occlude an end of the breathing circuit component.

3. The humidification chamber according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the circuit end cap is integrally formed with the main body.

4. The humidification chamber according to the preceding claim, wherein the circuit end cap is not removable from the main body.

5. The humidification chamber according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the circuit end cap is provided on the main body exterior to and isolated from the cavity.

6. The humidification chamber according to the previous claim, wherein the circuit end cap does not form a passageway into the cavity.

7. The humidification chamber according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the circuit end cap protrudes from the main body.

8. The humidification chamber according to the preceding claim, wherein the circuit end cap extends generally vertically from a top surface of the main body.

9. The humidification chamber according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the circuit end cap comprises a height of at least 5mm.

10. The humidification chamber according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the circuit end cap comprises an outer diameter between 8mm and 30mm.

11. The humidification chamber according to the preceding claim, wherein the circuit end cap comprises an outer diameter of 12 mm.

12. The humidification chamber according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the circuit end cap comprises an outer diameter substantially the same as an inner diameter of the breathing circuit component it is configured to receive.

13. The humidification chamber according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a sealing connection is formed between a sealing surface of the circuit end cap and the breathing circuit component.

14. The humidification chamber according to the preceding claim, wherein the sealing surface of the circuit end cap is on an outer perimeter of the circuit end cap configured to engage with an interior surface of the breathing circuit component.

15. The humidification chamber according to any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the sealing connection is tapered.

16. The humidification chamber according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the circuit end cap size and geometry are configured to receive the breathing circuit component via a friction fit.

17. The humidification chamber according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the circuit end cap comprises a generally cylindrical shape.

18. The humidification chamber according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the circuit end cap comprises a generally smooth outer perimeter.

19. The humidification chamber according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the circuit end cap is hollow.

20. humidification chamber according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the circuit end cap is solid.

21. The humidification chamber according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the circuit end cap comprises a generally flat top surface.

22. The humidification chamber according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the circuit end cap comprises a recessed top surface.

23. The humidification chamber according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the circuit end cap comprises a ribbed top surface.

24. The humidification chamber according to the preceding claim, wherein the ribbed top surface comprises a cross-shape.

25. The humidification chamber according to claim 23, wherein the ribbed top surface comprises a Y-shape.

26. The humidification chamber according to any one of claims 8 to 25, wherein the circuit end cap is located at or towards a central region on the top surface of the main body.

27. The humidification chamber according to any one of claims 5 to 26, wherein the circuit end cap is located in a region between the inlet and outlet on the top surface of the main body.

28. The humidification chamber according to any one of claims 5 to 27, wherein the circuit end cap is offset from centre on the top surface of the main body.

29. The humidification chamber according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the inlet comprises an inlet port defining a passage into the cavity of the humidification chamber and the outlet comprises an outlet port defining a passage out of the cavity of the humidification chamber and the inlet and outlet ports are configured to provide connections to a supply conduit and inspiratory conduit respectively.

30. The humidification chamber according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a liquid fill port.

31. The humidification chamber according to the preceding claim, further comprising a plug configured to occlude the liquid fill port.

32. The humidification chamber according to the preceding claim, further comprising a tether configured to retain the plug to the main body.

33. The humidification chamber according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the main body comprises a generally rounded shape with generally smooth sides.

34. The humidification chamber according to the preceding claim, wherein the main body comprises a dome-shape.

35. The humidification chamber according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the main body and base are removably attached to one another.

36. The humidification chamber according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein humidification chamber further comprises a sealing element between the main body and the base.

37. The humidification chamber according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the circuit end cap is configured to support a Y-piece connector.

38. The humidification chamber according to the preceding claim, wherein the circuit end cap is configured to support a patient- end of the Y-piece connector.

39. A humidification system comprising: a humidification chamber as claimed in any one of the preceding claims; and a breathing circuit assembly for providing pathways for gases to travel.

40. The humification system according to the preceding claim, further comprising a heater base configured to heat at least some of the contents of the humification chamber.

41. The humification system according to any one of claims 39 or 40, wherein the breathing circuit assembly comprises a supply conduit, an inspiratory conduit, and an expiratory conduit.

42. The humification system according to the preceding claim, wherein the breathing circuit assembly comprises a Y-piece connector configured to connect the inspiratory conduit and the expiratory conduit.

43. The humification system according to the preceding claim, wherein the circuit end cap is sized and configured to receive the Y-piece connector.

44. The humidification chamber or system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the humidification chamber comprises a chamfered edge portion.

45. The humidification chamber or system according to the preceding claim, wherein the chamfered edge portion is located at least partially on a top surface of the humidification chamber.

46. The humidification chamber or system according to any one of claims 44 or 45, wherein the humidification chamber comprises more than one chamfered edge portion.

47. The humidification chamber or system according to the preceding claim, wherein the humidification chamber comprises a pair of chamfered edge portions located on opposing sides of the chamber.

48. The humidification chamber or system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the humidification chamber comprises a removal aid feature being a cut-out on a bottom rim of the humidification chamber.

49. The humidification chamber or system according to the preceding claim, wherein the removal aid feature is a slot.

50. The humidification chamber or system according to any one of claims 47 to 49, wherein the removal aid feature is located on a lower edge of the main body.

51. The humidification chamber or system according to any one of claims 47 to 51 , wherein the removal aid feature does not extend to a top edge of a rim on the bottom of the humidification chamber.

52. The humidification system according to any one of claims 39 to 51 , further comprising a separation tool for assisting with the separation of the main body from the base of the humidification chamber.

53. The humidification system according to the preceding claim, wherein the separation tool is configured to engage with the removal aid feature of the humidification chamber.

54. The humidification system according to any one of claims 52 or 53, wherein the separation tool is substantially flat.

55. The humidification system according to the preceding claim, wherein the separation has a flat bottom region and a ramped top surface region.

56. The humidification chamber or system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the outlet is located further from a side wall of the humidification chamber than the inlet.

57. The humidification chamber or system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the outlet is located closer to the centre than a side wall of the chamber.

58. A breathing circuit kit for use in a humidified respiratory assistance system, the breathing circuit kit comprising: a humidification chamber configured to contain a liquid, the humidification chamber comprising an inlet port for supplying the liquid to an interior of the humidification chamber in use, the inlet port comprising: a humidification chamber bore providing a passage for the liquid from an inlet end at an exterior of the humidification chamber to an outlet end at the interior of the humidification chamber; a side wall defining a first portion of the humidification chamber bore, the first portion of the humidification chamber bore tapering, at least in part, toward the outlet end of the humidification chamber bore; and a shoulder defining a second portion of the humidification chamber bore, the shoulder extending inwardly of the side wall; a liquid conduit; and a feedset connector comprising a proximal portion and a distal portion, the proximal portion and the distal portion at least in part defining a connector bore extending from a proximal end of the feedset connector to a distal end of the feedset connector, wherein the proximal portion is configured to couple with the liquid conduit and the distal portion is configured to couple with the inlet port, in use.

59. The breathing circuit kit of claim 58, wherein a diameter of the second portion of the humidification chamber bore is smaller than an external diameter of an ISO-compliant connector.

60. The breathing circuit kit of claim 58 or 59, wherein a diameter of the second portion of the humidification chamber bore is larger than an external diameter of a first ISO-compliant connector and smaller than an external diameter of a second ISO-compliant connector, wherein the first ISO-compliant connector is different to the second ISO-compliant connector.

61. The breathing circuit kit of any one of claims 58 to 60, the shoulder at least in part extending in a direction perpendicular to an axis of the humidification chamber bore.

62. The breathing circuit kit of any one of claims 58 to 61 , the first portion of the humidification chamber bore at least in part comprising a constant taper, preferably tapering at a rate of between about 5% and 7%, more preferably tapering at a rate of about 6%.

63. The breathing circuit kit of any one of claims 58 to 62, wherein the distal portion of the feedset connector is configured to couple with the inlet port with an interference fit.

64. The breathing circuit kit of any one of claims 58 to 63, wherein the inlet port is configured so that a first ISO-compliant connector contacts the shoulder when the first ISO-compliant connector is inserted into the inlet port, in use.

65. The breathing circuit kit of any one of claims 58 to 64, wherein the first portion of the humidification chamber bore is configured to at least in part receive the distal portion, preferably between about 45% and 90% of the distal portion, more preferably between about 65% and 75% of the distal portion, and most preferably about 69% of the distal portion.

66. The breathing circuit kit of any one of claims 58 to 65, wherein the inlet port and/or the feedset connector are configured so that the feedset connector does not contact the shoulder when the feedset connector is engaged with the inlet port, in use.

67. The breathing circuit kit of any one of claims 58 to 66, wherein the inlet port and/or the feedset connector are configured so that the feedset connector is spaced from the shoulder by at least 1 mm, preferably by between about 1 mm and 5 mm, and more preferably by about 3 mm, when the feedset connector is engaged with the inlet port, in use.

68. The breathing circuit kit of any one of claims 58 to 67, an exterior of the feedset connector at least in part tapering towards the distal end of the feedset connector, preferably at least in part comprising a constant taper, more preferably tapering at a rate of between about 5% and 7%, more preferably tapering at a rate of about 6%, and most preferably tapering at a rate substantially the same as the first portion of the humidification chamber bore.

69. The breathing circuit kit of any one of claims 58 to 68, at least one, and preferably both, of the side wall and the shoulder comprising an annular shape in cross-section through an axis of the humidification chamber bore.

70. The breathing circuit kit of any one of claims 58 to 69, the shoulder tapering, at least in part, towards the outlet end of the inlet port, preferably the shoulder at least in part comprising a variable taper.

71. The breathing circuit kit of any one of claims 58 to 70, wherein an outside diameter of the distal portion at the distal end of the feedset connector is between about 6 mm and 8 mm, preferably about 7 mm.

72. The breathing circuit kit of any one of claims 58 to 71 , wherein the first portion of the humidification chamber bore has one or more of: a longitudinal length of between about 8.5 mm and 9 mm, preferably about 8.5 mm; a minimum diameter of between about 6.7 mm and 6.9 mm, preferably about 6.7 mm or 6.8 mm; a maximum diameter of between about 7.2 mm and 7.4 mm, preferably about 7.3 mm; a diameter which tapers by between about 0.3 mm and 0.7 mm, preferably about 0.5 mm or 0.6 mm; and/or a minimum diameter which is substantially equal to, or larger than, a maximum diameter of the second portion of the humidification chamber bore.

73. The breathing circuit kit of any one of claims 58 to 72, the humidification chamber bore tapering, at least in part, from an upstream end of the second portion toward the outlet end of the inlet port.

74. The breathing circuit kit of any one of claims 58 to 73, wherein the second portion of the humidification chamber bore has one or more of: a maximum diameter of no more than about 3.3 mm; a diameter, at a transition between an upstream surface and an edge of the shoulder, of no more than 3.3 mm, e.g., about 3.2 mm; a diameter, preferably at an upstream end of the second portion, which is between about 41 % and 46%, preferably about 44%, of a diameter of the humidification chamber bore at the inlet end of the inlet port; and/or a diameter, preferably at the upstream end of the second portion, which is between about 3.1 mm and 3.3 mm, preferably about 3.2 mm.

75. The breathing circuit kit of any one of claims 58 to 74, wherein the side wall comprises an outer surface that diverges outwardly from the inlet end of the inlet port.

76. The breathing circuit kit of any one of claims 58 to 75, wherein the side wall of the inlet port is not threaded.

77. The breathing circuit kit of any one of claims 58 to 76, wherein the side wall protrudes upwardly from a top of the humidification chamber.

78. The breathing circuit kit of any one of claims 58 to 77, comprising any one or more of: a humidifier supply tube configured to supply a flow of respiratory gases to a gases inlet of the humidification chamber; a patient supply tube configured to receive the flow of respiratory gases from an outlet of the humidification chamber and convey the flow of respiratory gases towards a patient; an expiratory tube configured to receive expiratory gases from the patient and convey the expiratory gases away from the patient; and a wye-piece configured to be fluidly coupled with the patient supply tube, the expiratory tube and a patient interface.

79. The breathing circuit kit of any one of claims 58 to 78 comprising a port attachment, the port attachment comprising an adaptor portion and a closure portion, the adaptor portion and the closure portion selectively engageable with the inlet port to respectively: adapt the inlet port for fluid coupling with an alternative feedset connector of a different size and/or shape to a feedset connector configured to couple directly to the inlet port, or close off the inlet port.

80. The breathing circuit kit of claim 79, the adaptor portion comprising a first end portion and a second end portion, the second end portion configured to engage the inlet port, the first end portion and the second end portion at least in part defining an adaptor bore extending through the adaptor portion to provide a fluid flow path through the port attachment, at least one, and preferably both, of the adaptor portion and the adaptor bore tapering, at least in part, from the first end portion to the second end portion, and the closure portion preferably being integrally formed with the adaptor portion.

81. The breathing circuit kit of claim 79 or 80, wherein the port attachment is tethered to the humidification chamber.

82. A humidification chamber for use in a humidified respiratory assistance system, the humidification chamber configured to contain a liquid and comprising an inlet port for supplying the liquid to an interior of the humidification chamber in use, the inlet port comprising: a side wall defining a first portion of a humidification chamber bore providing a passage for the liquid from an inlet end at an exterior of the humidification chamber to an outlet end at the interior of the humidification chamber, the first portion of the humidification chamber bore tapering, at least in part, toward the outlet end of the inlet port, and a shoulder defining a second portion of the humidification chamber bore, the shoulder extending inwardly of the side wall.

83. The humidification chamber of claim 82, wherein a diameter of the second portion of the humidification chamber bore is smaller than an external diameter of an ISO-compliant connector.

84. The humidification chamber of claim 82 or 83, wherein a diameter of the second portion of the humidification chamber bore is larger than an external diameter of a first ISO- compliant connector and smaller than an external diameter of a second ISO-compliant connector, wherein the first ISO-compliant connector is different to the second ISO- compliant connector.

85. The humidification chamber of any one of claims 82 to 84, the shoulder at least in part extending in a direction perpendicular to an axis of the humidification chamber bore.

86. The humidification chamber of any one of claims 82 to 85, the first portion of the humidification chamber bore at least in part comprising a constant taper, preferably tapering at a rate of between about 5% and 7%, more preferably tapering at a rate of about 6%.

87. The humidification chamber of any one of claims 82 to 86, at least one, and preferably both, of the side wall and the shoulder comprising an annular shape in cross-section through an axis of the humidification chamber bore.

88. The humidification chamber of any one of claims 82 to 87, the shoulder tapering, at least in part, towards the outlet end of the inlet port, the shoulder preferably comprising a variable taper.

89. The humidification chamber of any one of claims 82 to 88, wherein the first portion of the humidification chamber bore has any one or more of: a longitudinal length of between about 8.5 mm and 9 mm, preferably about 8.5 mm; a minimum diameter of between about 6.7 mm and 6.9 mm, preferably about 6.7 mm or 6.8 mm; a maximum diameter of between about 7.2 mm and 7.4 mm, preferably about 7.3 mm; a diameter which tapers by between about 0.3 mm and 0.7 mm, preferably about 0.5 mm or 0.6 mm; and/or a minimum diameter which is substantially equal to, or larger than, a maximum diameter of the second portion of the humidification chamber bore.

90. The humidification chamber of any one of claims 82 to 89, wherein the humidification chamber bore tapers, at least in part, from a first end of the second portion toward the outlet end of the inlet port.

91 . The humidification chamber of any one of claims 82 to 90, wherein the second portion of the humidification chamber bore has any one or more of: a maximum diameter of no more than about 3.3 mm; a diameter, at a transition between an upstream surface and an edge of the shoulder, of no more than 3.3 mm, e.g., about 3.2 mm; a diameter, preferably at an upstream end of the second portion, which is between about 41 % and 46%, preferably about 44%, of a diameter of the humidification chamber bore at the inlet end of the inlet port; and/or a diameter, preferably at the upstream end of the second portion, which is between about 3.1 mm and 3.3 mm, preferably about 3.2 mm.

92. The humidification chamber of any one of claims 82 to 91 , wherein the side wall comprises an outer surface that diverges outwardly from the inlet end of the inlet port.

93. The humidification chamber of any one of claims 82 to 92, wherein the side wall of the inlet port is not threaded.

94. The humidification chamber of any one of claims 82 to 93, wherein the side wall of the inlet port protrudes upwardly from a top of the humidification chamber.

95. The humidification chamber of any one of claims 82 to 94 comprising a port attachment, the port attachment comprising an adaptor portion and a closure portion, the adaptor portion and the closure portion selectively engageable with the inlet port to respectively: adapt the inlet port for fluid coupling with an alternative feedset connector of a different size and/or shape to a feedset connector configured to couple directly to the inlet port, or close off the inlet port.

96. The humidification chamber of claim 95, the adaptor portion comprising a first end portion and a second end portion, the second end portion configured to engage the inlet port, the first end portion and the second end portion at least in part defining an adaptor bore extending through the adaptor portion to provide a fluid flow path through the port attachment, at least one, and preferably both, of the adaptor portion and the adaptor bore tapering, at least in part, from the first end portion to the second end portion, and the closure portion preferably being integrally formed with the adaptor portion.

97. The humidification chamber of claim 95 or 96, wherein the adaptor portion is tethered to the humidification chamber.

99. The water feedset assembly of claim 98, the feedset connector at least in part tapering towards the distal end of the feedset connector, preferably at least in part comprising a constant taper, more preferably tapering at a rate of between about 5% and 7%, more preferably tapering at a rate of about 6%.

100.The water feedset assembly of claim 98 or 99, wherein an outside diameter of feedset connector at the distal end is between about 6 mm and 8 mm, preferably about 7 mm.

101. The water feedset assembly of any one of claims 98 to 100, at least one of the proximal portion and the distal portion comprising a substantially frustoconical shape, and the feedset connector preferably comprising a flange located intermediate the proximal portion and the distal portion.

103. A port attachment for use with a humidification chamber in a respiratory assistance system, the humidification chamber comprising an inlet port configured to engage with a first feedset connector, the port attachment comprising an adaptor portion and a closure portion, and the port attachment configured to be selectively engageable with an inlet port of the humidification chamber in one of an adapting configuration and a closing configuration, wherein: in the adapting configuration the adaptor portion is configured to engage with, and fluidly couple, the inlet port and a second feedset connector which differs to the first feedset connector, and in the closing configuration the closure portion is configured to engage the inlet port to seal or close it.

104. The humidification chamber of any one of claims 79-81 , 95-97, or 102-103, wherein the port attachment comprises a protruding rib, and the protruding rib is configured to function as a separation tool.

105. The humidification chamber of claim 104 wherein the protruding rib is configured to engage with one or more removal feature(s) of a main body and/or base of the humidification chamber, to aid in disassembly of the main body from the base of the humidification chamber.

106. The humidification chamber of any one of the preceding claims for respiratory or surgical humidification, comprising: a hollow body, comprising an inlet port and an outlet port; a heat conductive body; and a sealing element configured to provide a seal between the hollow body and the heat conductive body, when assembled; wherein the heat conductive body is configured to be removably attachable to the hollow body and has a thermal capacity of less than about 30 joules per kelvin (J/K), less than about 27 J/K, between about 16 J/K and 27 J/K, between about 19 J/K and 24 J/K, between about 20 J/K and 22 J/K, about 21 J/K, or between about 20.7 J/K and 21.2 J/K.

107. The humidification chamber of claim 106 wherein the heat conductive body comprises a thickness of between about 0.2 mm and 1.2 mm, between about 0.2 mm and 1 mm, between about 0.4 mm and 0.9 mm, between about 0.6 mm and 0.8 mm, or about 0.7 mm

108. The humidification chamber of claim 106 or 107 wherein the humidification chamber comprises a surround, the surround integral with, attached to, or attachable with the heat conductive body and configured to engage a base unit of a humidifier, in use.

109. The humidification chamber of claims 108 wherein the surround comprises the one or more removal features configured to aid disassembly of the humidification chamber.