Removing condensation from a breathing circuit

• US 9,067,036 B2
• Filed: 09/30/2011
• Issued: 06/30/2015
• Est. Priority Date: 09/30/2011
• Status: Active Grant

• Current Assignee: SunMed Group Holdings LLC
• Original Assignee: CareFusion 207, Inc. (Becton, Dickinson & Co)
• Inventors: Korneff, Neil, Dixon, Paul David, Varga, Christopher M
• Primary Examiner(s): SKORUPA, VALERIE LYNN
• Application Number:
  US13/251,110
• Publication Number:
  US 20130081622A1
• Time in Patent Office: 1,369 Days
• Field of Search: 12820011-20013, 128/203.12, 128/203.14, 128/203.16, 128/203.17, 128/203.26, 128/203.27, 128/204.13, 128/204.14, 128/204.17, 128/204.21, 219628-631, 261/142
• US Class Current: 1/1
• CPC Class Codes: A61M 16/0006 with means for creating vibrations in patients' airways
• CPC Class Codes: A61M 16/024 including calculation means, e.g. using a processor
• CPC Class Codes: A61M 16/0875 Connecting tubes
• CPC Class Codes: A61M 16/1075 by influencing the temperature A61M16/1045 takes precedence
• CPC Class Codes: A61M 16/109 the humidifying liquid or the beneficial agent
• CPC Class Codes: A61M 16/1095 in the connecting tubes
• CPC Class Codes: A61M 16/16 Devices to humidify the respiration air A61M16/1045 takes precedence
• CPC Class Codes: A61M 16/164 including a liquid inlet valve system
• CPC Class Codes: A61M 2016/0039 in the inspiratory circuit
• CPC Class Codes: A61M 2205/18 with alarm
• CPC Class Codes: A61M 2205/21 insensitive to tilting or inclination, e.g. spill-over prevention
• CPC Class Codes: A61M 2205/3306 Optical measuring means
• CPC Class Codes: A61M 2205/3317 Electromagnetic, inductive or dielectric measuring means
• CPC Class Codes: A61M 2205/3382 Upper level detectors
• CPC Class Codes: A61M 2205/3386 Low level detectors
• CPC Class Codes: A61M 2205/368 by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. IR waves
• CPC Class Codes: A61M 2205/502 User interfaces, e.g. screens or keyboards
• CPC Class Codes: A61M 2205/6018 providing set-up signals for the apparatus configuration
• CPC Class Codes: A61M 2205/6072 Bar codes
• CPC Class Codes: A61M 2205/6081 Colour codes
• CPC Class Codes: A61M 2207/00 : Methods of manufacture, assembly or production
• CPC Class Codes: Y10T 137/0318 : Processes
• CPC Class Codes: Y10T 29/49002 : Electrical device making

Abstract

A device for humidifying respiratory gases is provided. The device includes: an all-polymer humidification chamber; a heating element positioned independently and proximate to the humidification chamber; a base unit supporting the humidification chamber; a computer that sends adjustment instructions to a water filling valve coupled with the humidification chamber; a plurality of sensors determining light within the humidification chamber and coupled with the base unit; an airflow conduit coupled with the humidification chamber; a heater wire within the airflow conduit; and an insulation material with grooves thereon surrounding the heater wire. The adjustment instructions instruct the water filling valve to self-adjust to meet a predetermined water level objective. The airflow conduit delivers gas to the patient. The heater wire heats the gas being delivered. The grooves on the insulation wire wick water within the humidification chamber away to re-evaporation regions.

Claims

1. A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume;

a base unit configured to support the humidification component;

a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation; and

at least one sensor positioned external to said humidification component disposed in the base unit and coupled with a control module, said at least one sensor configured for sensing water related information in said humidification component and providing said water related information to said control module, said water related information comprising data configured for being used to control an operation of a water level control element.

2. A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume;

a base unit configured to support the humidification component;

a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation; and

at least one groove disposed on a heater wire of said device, said heater wire being positioned in a respiratory gas conduit.

3. A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume; and

a base unit configured to support the humidification component;

a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation;

wherein said humidification component is comprised entirely of a non-metallic material, a portion of said non-metallic material configured for conducting heat transmitting electromagnetic radiation to said water volume, said electromagnetic radiation directed within the humidification component by a portion of said non-metallic material that is reflective to electromagnetic radiation.

4. A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume and for adding water vapor to a gas that is to be provided to a patient to support breathing;

a base unit configured to support the humidification component;

a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation; and

a humidification component controller coupled with said humidification component and configured for receiving humidification target value information, said humidification component controller comprising;

a humidification target value determiner configured for determining, based on said received humidification target value information, at least two possible humidification target values, at least one humidification target value identifying a humidification level setting corresponding to said patient.

5. A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume;

a base unit configured to support the humidification component;

a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation;

a respiratory gas conduit comprising an input end and an output end, said respiratory gas conduit configured for receiving a gas at said input end and configured to transport said gas to said output end;

a heater wire disposed inside said respiratory gas conduit, said heater wire comprising;

a sheathing; and

at least one groove disposed on said sheathing, said at least one groove configured for wicking up water from a region of condensation within said respiratory gas conduit and transporting wicked up water to a re-evaporation region.

6. A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume and for adding water vapor to a gas to be provided to a patient to support breathing;

a base unit configured to support the humidification component;

a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic;

a gas delivery device coupled with said humidification component, said gas delivery device configured for controlling a delivery of said gas to said humidification component; and

a communication module coupled with said gas delivery device and said humidification component, said communication module configured for communicating humidification target value information between said humidification component and said gas delivery device, said humidification component and said gas delivery device configured for determining, based on said humidification target value information, target operational information of a system associated with said patient, wherein said system comprises said device.

7. A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume;

a base unit configured to support the humidification component;

a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation;

at least one sensor positioned external to a humidification component and coupled with a control module, said at least one sensor configured for sensing water related information in said humidification component and providing said water related information to said control module, said water related information comprising data configured for being used to control an operation of a water level control element; and

at least one groove disposed on a heater wire of said device, said heater wire being positioned in a respiratory gas conduit.

8. A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume;

a base unit configured to support the humidification component;

a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation; and

at least one sensor positioned external to said humidification component and coupled with a control module, said at least one sensor configured for sensing water related information in said humidification component and providing said water related information to said control module, said water related information comprising data configured for being used to control an operation of a water level control element, wherein said humidification component is comprised entirely of a non-metallic material, said non-metallic material configured for conducting heat transmitting electromagnetic radiation to said water volume, said heat being received from a heating element.

9. A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume and for adding water vapor to a gas to be provided to a patient to support breathing;

a base unit configured to support the humidification component;

a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation;

at least one sensor positioned external to said humidification component and coupled with a control module, said at least one sensor configured for sensing water related information in said humidification component and providing said water related information to said control module, said water related information comprising data configured for being used to control an operation of a water level control element; and

a humidification component controller coupled with said humidification component and configured for receiving said humidification target value information, said humidification component controller comprising;

a humidification target value determiner configured for determining, based on received humidification target value information, a humidification target value of at least two possible humidification target values, said humidification target value identifying a humidification level setting corresponding to said patient.

10. A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume;

a base unit configured to support the humidification component;

a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation;

at least one sensor positioned external to said humidification component and coupled with a control module, said at least one sensor configured for sensing water related information in said humidification component and providing said water related information to said control module, said water related information comprising data configured for being used to control an operation of a water level control element;

a respiratory gas conduit comprising an input end and an output end, said respiratory gas conduit configured for receiving gas at said input end and configured to transport said gas to said output end; and

a heater wire disposed inside said respiratory gas conduit, said heater wire comprising;

a sheathing; and

at least one groove disposed on said sheathing, said at least one groove configured for wicking up water from a region of condensation within said respiratory gas conduit and transporting wicked up water to a re-evaporation region.

11. A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume and for adding water vapor to a gas to be provided to a patient to support breathing;

a base unit configured to support the humidification component;

a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation;

at least one sensor positioned external to a humidification component and coupled with a control module, said at least one sensor configured for sensing water related information in said humidification component and providing said water related information to said control module, said water related information comprising data configured for being used to control an operation of a water level control element;

a gas delivery device coupled with said humidification component, said gas delivery device configured for controlling a delivery of said gas to said humidification component; and

a communication module coupled with said gas delivery device and said humidification component, said communication module configured for communicating humidification target value information between said humidification component and said gas delivery device, said humidification component and said gas delivery device configured for determining, based on said humidification target value information, target operational information of a system associated with said patient, wherein said system comprises said device.

12. A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume;

a base unit configured to support the humidification component;

a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation; and

at least one groove disposed on a heater wire of said device, said heater wire being positioned in a respiratory gas conduit, wherein said humidification component is comprised entirely of a non-metallic material, said non-metallic material configured for transmitting electromagnetic radiation to said water volume, said heat being received from a heating element.

13. A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume and for adding water vapor to a gas to be provided to a patient to support breathing;

a base unit configured to support the humidification component;

a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation;

at least one groove disposed on a heater wire of said device, said heater wire being positioned in a respiratory gas conduit; and

a humidification component controller coupled with said humidification component and configured for receiving said humidification target value information, said humidification component controller comprising;

a humidification target value determiner configured for determining, based on received humidification target value information, a humidification target value of at least two possible humidification target values, said humidification target value identifying a humidification level setting corresponding to said patient.

14. A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume;

a base unit configured to support the humidification component;

a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation;

at least one groove disposed on a heater wire of said device, said heater wire being positioned in a respiratory gas conduit;

said respiratory gas conduit comprising an input end and an output end, said respiratory gas conduit configured for receiving gas at said input end and configured to transport said gas to said output end; and

said heater wire comprising;

a sheathing; and

at least one groove disposed on said sheathing, said at least one groove configured for wicking up water from a region of condensation within said respiratory gas conduit and transporting wicked up water to a re-evaporation region.

15. A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume and for adding water vapor to a gas to be provided to a patient to support breathing;

a base unit configured to support the humidification component;

a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation;

at least one groove disposed on a heater wire of said device, said heater wire being positioned in a respiratory gas conduit;

a gas delivery device coupled with said humidification component, said gas delivery device configured for controlling a delivery of said gas to said humidification component; and

a communication module coupled with said gas delivery device and said humidification component, said communication module configured for communicating humidification target value information between said humidification component and said gas delivery device, said humidification component and said gas delivery device configured for determining, based on said humidification target value information, target operational information of a system associated with said patient, wherein said system comprises said device.

16. A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume and for adding water vapor to a gas to be provided to a patient to support breathing;

a base unit configured to support the humidification component;

a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation, wherein said humidification component is comprised entirely of a non-metallic material, said non-metallic material configured for transmitting electromagnetic radiation to said water volume, said heat being received from a heating element; and

a humidification component controller coupled with said humidification component and configured for receiving said humidification target value information, said humidification component controller comprising;

a humidification target value determiner configured for determining, based on received humidification target value information, a humidification target value of at least two possible humidification target values, said humidification target value identifying a humidification level setting corresponding to said patient.

17. A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume;

a base unit configured to support the humidification component;

a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation, wherein said humidification component is comprised entirely of a non-metallic material, said non-metallic material configured for transmitting electromagnetic radiation to said water volume, said heat being received from a heating element;

a respiratory gas conduit comprising an input end and an output end, said respiratory gas conduit configured for receiving gas at said input end and configured to transport said gas to said output end; and

a heater wire disposed inside said respiratory gas conduit, said heater wire comprising;

a sheathing; and

at least one groove disposed on said sheathing, said at least one groove configured for wicking up water from a region of condensation within said respiratory gas conduit and transporting wicked up water to a re-evaporation region.

18. A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume and for adding water vapor to a gas to be provided to a patient to support breathing;

a base unit configured to support the humidification component;

a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation, wherein said humidification component is comprised entirely of a non-metallic material, said non-metallic material configured for conducting heat transmitting electromagnetic radiation to said water volume, said heat being received from a heating element;

a gas delivery device coupled with said humidification component, said gas delivery device configured for controlling a delivery of said gas to said humidification component; and

a communication module coupled with said gas delivery device and said humidification component, said communication module configured for communicating humidification target value information between said humidification component and said gas delivery device, said humidification component and said gas delivery device configured for determining, based on said humidification target value information, target operational information of a system associated with said patient, wherein said system comprises said device.

19. A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume and adding water vapor to a gas to be provided to a patient to support breathing;

a base unit configured to support the humidification component;

a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation;

a respiratory gas conduit comprising an input end and an output end, said respiratory gas conduit configured for receiving gas at said input end and configured to transport said gas to said output end;

a heater wire disposed inside said respiratory gas conduit, said heater wire comprising;

a sheathing; and

at least one groove disposed on said sheathing, said at least one groove configured for wicking up water from a region of condensation within said respiratory gas conduit and transporting wicked up water to a re-evaporation region; and

a humidification component controller coupled with said humidification component and configured for receiving said humidification target value information, said humidification component controller comprising;

a humidification target value determiner configured for determining, based on received humidification target value information, a humidification target value of at least two possible humidification target values, said humidification target value identifying a humidification level setting corresponding to said patient.

20. A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume and for adding water vapor to a gas to be provided to a patient to support breathing;

a base unit configured to support the humidification component;

a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation;

a respiratory gas conduit comprising an input end and an output end, said respiratory gas conduit configured for receiving gas at said input end and configured to transport said gas to said output end;

a heater wire disposed inside said respiratory gas conduit, said heater wire comprising;

a sheathing; and

at least one groove disposed on said sheathing, said at least one groove configured for wicking up water from a region of condensation within said respiratory gas conduit and transporting wicked up water to a re-evaporation region;

a gas delivery device coupled with said humidification component, said gas delivery device configured for controlling a delivery of said gas to said humidification component; and

a communication module coupled with said gas delivery device and said humidification component, said communication module configured for communicating humidification target value information between said humidification component and said gas delivery device, said humidification component and said gas delivery device configured for determining, based on said humidification target value information, target operational information of a system associated with said patient, wherein said system comprises said device.

21. A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume;

a base unit configured to support the humidification component;

a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation;

at least one sensor positioned external to a humidification component and coupled with a control module, said at least one sensor configured for sensing water related information in said humidification component and providing said water related information to said control module, said water related information comprising data configured for being used to control an operation of a water level control element; and

at least one groove disposed on a heater wire of said device, said heater wire being positioned in a respiratory gas conduit, wherein said humidification component is comprised entirely of a non-metallic material, said non-metallic material configured for transmitting electromagnetic radiation to said water volume, said heat being received from a heating element.

22. A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume and for adding water vapor to a gas to be provided to a patient to support breathing;

a base unit configured to support the humidification component;

a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation;

at least one sensor positioned external to a humidification component and coupled with a control module, said at least one sensor configured for sensing water related information in said humidification component and providing said water related information to said control module, said water related information comprising data configured for being used to control an operation of a water level control element;

at least one groove disposed on a heater wire of said device, said heater wire being positioned in a respiratory gas conduit; and

a humidification component controller coupled with said humidification component and configured for receiving said humidification target value information, said humidification component controller comprising;

a humidification target value determiner configured for determining, based on received humidification target value information, a humidification target value of at least two possible humidification target values, said humidification target value identifying a humidification level setting corresponding to said patient.

23. A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume and for adding water vapor to a gas to be provided to a patient to support breathing;

a base unit configured to support the humidification component;

a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation;

at least one sensor positioned external to a humidification component and coupled with a control module, said at least one sensor configured for sensing water related information in said humidification component and providing said water related information to said control module, said water related information comprising data configured for being used to control an operation of a water level control element;

at least one groove disposed on a heater wire of said device, said heater wire being positioned in a respiratory gas conduit coupled with said humidification component;

a gas delivery device coupled with said humidification component, said gas delivery device configured for controlling a delivery of said gas to said humidification component; and

a communication module coupled with said gas delivery device and said humidification component, said communication module configured for communicating humidification target value information between said humidification component and said gas delivery device, said humidification component and said gas delivery device configured for determining, based on said humidification target value information, target operational information of a system associated with said patient, wherein said system comprises said device.

24. A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume and for adding water vapor to a gas to be provided to a patient to support breathing;

a base unit configured to support the humidification component;

a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation;

at least one sensor positioned external to a humidification component and coupled with a control module, said at least one sensor configured for sensing water related information in said humidification component and providing said water related information to said control module, said water related information comprising data configured for being used to control an operation of a water level control element, wherein said humidification component is comprised entirely of a non-metallic material, said non-metallic material configured for transmitting electromagnetic radiation to said water volume, said heat being received from a heating element;

at least one groove disposed on a heater wire, said heater wire being positioned in a respiratory gas conduit coupled with said humidification component; and

a humidification component controller coupled with said humidification component and configured for receiving said humidification target value information, said humidification component controller comprising;

a humidification target value determiner configured for determining, based on received humidification target value information, a humidification target value of at least two possible humidification target values, said humidification target value identifying a humidification level setting corresponding to said patient.

25. A device for maintaining a water level in a respiratory humidification system, said device comprising:

at least one sensor positioned external to a humidification component and coupled with a control module, said at least one sensor configured for sensing water related information in said humidification component and providing said water related information to said control module, said water related information comprising data configured for being used to control an operation of a water level control element, wherein said humidification component is configured for retaining a water volume, said humidification component comprised entirely of a non-metallic material, said non-metallic material configured for transmitting electromagnetic radiation directly from a heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation, wherein the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component.

26. A device for maintaining a water level in a respiratory humidification system, said device comprising:

at least one sensor positioned external to a humidification component and coupled with a control module, said at least one sensor configured for sensing water related information in said humidification component and providing said water related information to said control module, said water related information comprising data configured for being used to control an operation of a water level control element; and

at least one groove disposed on a heater wire of said device, said heater wire being positioned in a respiratory gas conduit coupled with said humidification component, wherein said humidification component is configured for retaining a water volume, said humidification component comprised entirely of a non-metallic material, said non-metallic material configured for transmitting electromagnetic radiation directly from a heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation, wherein the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component.

27. A device for maintaining a water level in a respiratory humidification system, said device comprising:

at least one sensor positioned external to a humidification component and coupled with a control module, said at least one sensor configured for sensing water related information in said humidification component and providing said water related information to said control module, said water related information comprising data configured for being used to control an operation of a water level control element, wherein said humidification component is configured for retaining a water volume, said humidification component comprised entirely of a non-metallic material, said non-metallic material configured for transmitting electromagnetic radiation directly from a heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation, wherein the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component;

at least one groove disposed on a heater wire of said device, said heater wire being positioned in a respiratory gas conduit coupled with said humidification component; and

a humidification component controller coupled with said humidification component and configured for receiving said humidification target value information, said humidification component controller comprising;

a humidification target value determiner configured for determining, based on received humidification target value information, a humidification target value of at least two possible humidification target values, said humidification target value identifying a humidification level setting corresponding to said patient.

28. A device for maintaining a water level in a respiratory humidification system, said device comprising:

at least one sensor positioned external to a humidification component and coupled with a control module, said at least one sensor configured for sensing water related information in said humidification component and providing said water related information to said control module, said water related information comprising data configured for being used to control an operation of a water level control element, wherein said humidification component is configured for retaining a water volume, said humidification component comprised entirely of a non-metallic material, said non-metallic material configured for transmitting electromagnetic radiation directly from a heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation, wherein the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component;

at least one groove disposed on a heater wire of said device, said heater wire being positioned in a respiratory gas conduit coupled with said humidification component;

a gas delivery device coupled with said humidification component, said gas delivery device configured for controlling a delivery of said gas to said humidification component; and

a communication module coupled with said gas delivery device and said humidification component, said communication module configured for communicating humidification target value information between said humidification component and said gas delivery device, said humidification component and said gas delivery device configured for determining, based on said humidification target value information, target operational information of a system associated with said patient, wherein said system comprises said device.

29. A system comprising:

a heater wire comprising;

at least one groove disposed thereon, said heater wire being positioned in a respiratory gas conduit; and

a humidification component coupled with said heater wire and said respiratory gas conduit, said humidification component configured for retaining a water volume, said humidification component comprised entirely of a non-metallic material, said non-metallic material configured for transmitting electromagnetic radiation directly from a heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation, wherein the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component.

30. A system comprising:

a heater wire comprising;

at least one groove disposed thereon, said heater wire being positioned in a respiratory gas conduit;

a humidification component coupled with said heater wire and said respiratory gas conduit, said humidification component configured for retaining a water volume and for adding water vapor to a gas to be provided to a patient to support breathing, said non-metallic material configured for transmitting electromagnetic radiation directly from a heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation, wherein the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component; and

a humidification component controller coupled with said humidification component and configured for receiving said humidification target value information, said humidification component controller comprising;

a humidification target value determiner configured for determining, based on received humidification target value information, a humidification target value of at least two possible humidification target values, said humidification target value identifying a humidification level setting corresponding to said patient.

31. A system comprising:

a heater wire comprising;

at least one groove disposed thereon, said heater wire being positioned in a respiratory gas conduit;

a humidification component coupled with said heater wire and said respiratory gas conduit, said humidification component configured for retaining a water volume and for adding water vapor to a gas to be provided to a patient to support breathing, said humidification component comprised entirely of a non-metallic material, said non-metallic material configured for transmitting electromagnetic radiation directly from a heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation, wherein the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component;

a gas delivery device coupled with said humidification component, said gas delivery device configured for controlling a delivery of said gas to said humidification component; and

a communication module coupled with said gas delivery device and said humidification component, said communication module configured for communicating humidification target value information between said humidification component and said gas delivery device, said humidification component and said gas delivery device configured for determining, based on said humidification target value information, target operational information of said system associated with said patient.

32. An apparatus comprising:

a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume and for adding water vapor to a gas to be provided to a patient to support breathing, said humidification component comprised entirely of a non-metallic material, said non-metallic material configured for transmitting electromagnetic radiation directly from a heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation, wherein the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component; and

a humidification component controller coupled with said humidification component and configured for receiving said humidification target value information, said humidification component controller comprising;

a humidification target value determiner configured for determining, based on received humidification target value information, a humidification target value of at least two possible humidification target values, said humidification target value identifying a humidification level setting corresponding to said patient.

33. An apparatus comprising:

a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume and for adding water vapor to a gas to be provided to a patient to support breathing, said humidification component comprised entirely of a non-metallic material, said non-metallic material configured for transmitting electromagnetic radiation directly from a heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation, wherein the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component;

a gas delivery device coupled with said humidification component, said gas delivery device configured for controlling a delivery of said gas to said humidification component; and

a communication module coupled with said gas delivery device and said humidification component, said communication module configured for communicating humidification target value information between said humidification component and said gas delivery device, said humidification component and said gas delivery device configured for determining, based on said humidification target value information, target operational information of a system associated with said patient, wherein said system comprises said apparatus.

34. An apparatus comprising:

a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume, said humidification component comprised entirely of a non-metallic material, said non-metallic material configured for transmitting electromagnetic radiation directly from a heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation, wherein the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component;

a respiratory gas conduit comprising an input end and an output end, said respiratory gas conduit configured for receiving gas at said input end and configured to transport said gas to said output end; and

a heater wire disposed inside said respiratory gas conduit, said heater wire comprising;

a sheathing; and

at least one groove disposed on said sheathing, said at least one groove configured for wicking up water from a region of condensation within said respiratory gas conduit and transporting wicked up water to a re-evaporation region.

35. An apparatus comprising:

a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume and for adding water vapor to a gas to be provided to a patient to support breathing, said humidification component comprised entirely of a non-metallic material, said non-metallic material configured for transmitting electromagnetic radiation directly from a heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation, wherein the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component;

a humidification component controller coupled with said humidification component and configured for receiving said humidification target value information, said humidification component controller comprising;

a humidification target value determiner configured for determining, based on received humidification target value information, a humidification target value of at least two possible humidification target values, said humidification target value identifying a humidification level setting corresponding to said patient;

a respiratory gas conduit comprising an input end and an output end, said respiratory gas conduit configured for receiving gas at said input end and configured to transport said gas to said output end; and

a heater wire disposed inside said respiratory gas conduit, said heater wire comprising;

a sheathing; and

at least one groove disposed on said sheathing, said at least one groove configured for wicking up water from a region of condensation within said respiratory gas conduit and transporting wicked up water to a re-evaporation region.

36. An apparatus comprising:

a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume and for adding water vapor to a gas to be provided to a patient to support breathing, said humidification component comprised entirely of a non-metallic material, said non-metallic material configured for transmitting electromagnetic radiation directly from a heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation, wherein the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component;

a respiratory gas conduit comprising an input end and an output end, said respiratory gas conduit configured for receiving gas at said input end and configured to transport said gas to said output end;

a heater wire disposed inside said respiratory gas conduit, said heater wire comprising;

a sheathing; and

at least one groove disposed on said sheathing, said at least one groove configured for wicking up water from a region of condensation within said respiratory gas conduit and transporting wicked up water to a re-evaporation region;

a gas delivery device coupled with said humidification component, said gas delivery device configured for controlling a delivery of said gas to said humidification component; and

a communication module coupled with said gas delivery device and said humidification component, said communication module configured for communicating humidification target value information between said humidification component and said gas delivery device, said humidification component and said gas delivery device configured for determining, based on said humidification target value information, target operational information of a system associated with said patient, wherein said system comprises said apparatus.

37. A method for humidifying respiratory gases, said method comprising:

receiving electrical energy at a heating element;

converting, by said heating element, said electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to a water volume within a humidification component such that the water volume absorbs the electromagnetic radiation, thereby heating said water volume to achieve a heated water volume that produces water vapor, wherein said heating element comprises no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component;

flowing respiratory gases across said heated water volume, wherein said water vapor humidifies said respiratory gases;

sensing, by at least one sensor, water related information in said humidification component, said at least one sensor positioned external to said humidification component and coupled with a control module; and

providing, by said at least one sensor, said water related information to said control module, said water related information comprising data configured for being used to control an operation of a water level control element.

38. A method for humidifying respiratory gases, said method comprising:

receiving electrical energy at a heating element;

converting, by said heating element, said electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to a water volume within a humidification component such that the water volume absorbs the electromagnetic radiation, thereby heating said water volume to achieve a heated water volume that produces water vapor, wherein said humidification component is configured for retaining said water volume and is entirely comprised of a non-metallic material, and wherein said heating element comprises no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component; and

flowing respiratory gases across said heated water volume, wherein said water vapor humidifies said respiratory gases.

39. A method for humidifying respiratory gases, said method comprising:

receiving electrical energy at a heating element;

converting, by said heating element, said electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to a water volume within a humidification component such that the water volume absorbs the electromagnetic radiation, thereby heating said water volume to achieve a heated water volume that produces water vapor, wherein said heating element comprises no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component;

flowing respiratory gases across said heated water volume, wherein said water vapor humidifies said respiratory gases;

sensing, by at least one sensor, water related information in said humidification component, said at least one sensor positioned external to said humidification component and coupled with a control module; and

providing, by said at least one sensor, said water related information to said control module, said water related information comprising data configured for being used to control an operation of a water level control element, wherein said humidification component is entirely comprised of a non-metallic material.

40. A method for maintaining a water level in a humidification component, said method comprising:

receiving, at a humidification component, electromagnetic radiation from a heating element, said humidification component configured for retaining a water volume, wherein said humidification component is entirely comprised of a non-metallic material;

transmitting, by said non-metallic material, received electromagnetic radiation through said humidification component into said water volume such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation, wherein said heating element comprises no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component;

sensing, by at least one sensor, water related information in said humidification component, said at least one sensor positioned external to said humidification component and coupled with a control module; and

providing, by said at least one sensor, said water related information to said control module, said water related information comprising data configured for being used to control an operation of a water level control element.

41. A method of manufacturing a device for humidifying respiratory gases, said method comprising:

providing a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume;

disposing a heating element within a base unit configured to support the humidification component;

coupling said humidification component with said base unit, wherein said heating element is configured for receiving electrical energy and converting said electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation such that said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume such that the water volume absorbs the electromagnetic radiation, thereby heating said water volume to achieve a heated water volume, and wherein said heating element of comprises no component that contacts the water volume within said humidification component; and

coupling at least one sensor with a control module, said at least one sensor configured for sensing water related information in said humidification component and providing said water related information to said control module, said water related information comprising data configured for being used by said control module to control an operation of a water level control element, wherein said at least one sensor is positioned external to said humidification component.

42. A method of manufacturing a device for humidifying respiratory gases, said method comprising:

providing a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume;

disposing a heating element within a base unit configured to support the humidification component;

coupling said humidification component with said base unit, wherein said heating element is configured for receiving electrical energy and converting said electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation such that said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume such that the water volume absorbs the electromagnetic radiation, thereby heating said water volume to achieve a heated water volume, and wherein said heating element comprises no component that contacts the water volume within said humidification component;

providing a heater wire, said heater wire configured for heating gas inside and between an input and output end of a respiratory gas conduit coupled with said humidification component;

disposing a sheathing on a wire component of said heater wire, wherein said sheathing comprises a hydrophilic component; and

disposing at least one groove on said sheathing, said at least one groove configured for wicking up water from a region of condensation and transporting wicked up water to a re-evaporation region.

43. A method of manufacturing a device for humidifying respiratory gases, said method comprising:

providing a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume;

disposing a heating element within a base unit configured to support the humidification component;

coupling said humidification component with said base unit, wherein said heating element is configured for receiving electrical energy and converting said electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation such that said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume such that the water volume absorbs the electromagnetic radiation, thereby heating said water volume to achieve a heated water volume, and wherein said heating element comprises no component that contacts the water volume within said humidification component;

coupling at least one sensor with a control module, said at least one sensor configured for sensing water related information in said humidification component and providing said water related information to said control module, said water related information comprising data configured for being used by said control module to control an operation of a water level control element, wherein said at least one sensor is positioned external to said humidification component;

providing a heater wire, said heater wire configured for heating gas inside and between an input and output end of a respiratory gas conduit coupled with said humidification component;

disposing a sheathing on a wire component of said heater wire, wherein said sheathing comprises a hydrophilic component; and

disposing at least one groove on said sheathing, said at least one groove configured for wicking up water from a region of condensation and transporting wicked up water to a re-evaporation region.

44. A method of manufacturing a device for humidifying respiratory gases, said method comprising:

providing a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume;

disposing a heating element within a base unit;

coupling said humidification component with said base unit, wherein said heating element is configured for receiving electrical energy and converting said electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation such that said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume such that the water volume absorbs the electromagnetic radiation, thereby heating said water volume to achieve a heated water volume, and wherein said heating element comprises no component that contacts the water volume within said humidification component;

providing a heater wire, said heater wire configured for heating gas inside and between an input and output end of a respiratory gas conduit coupled with said humidification component;

disposing a sheathing on a wire component of said heater wire, wherein said sheathing comprises a hydrophilic component; and

disposing at least one groove on said sheathing, said at least one groove configured for wicking up water from a region of condensation and transporting wicked up water to a re-evaporation region.