LOW-FLOW OXYGEN THERAPY HUMIDIFIER AND METHOD
FIG6C depicts a sectional view, at line A-A, of the embodiment depicted in FIG6A, showing an embodiment of reservoir 202, wherein the reservoir is in a first state
A plurality of retainers 638 extend inwardly into region 636. In some embodiments, retainers 638 are coupled to frame 631. More particularly, in some embodiments, retainers 638 attach directly to frame 631; in some other embodiments, the retainers are attached to a fixture (not depicted) that attaches to frame 631. In some embodiments, the fixture has the same shape as the frame, and has dimensions suitable for overlying (or underlying) frame 631. Retainers 638 receive WVP membrane 206 and maintain it in a predefined position. As depicted in FIG6C through 6F, in some embodiments, the predefined position of WVP membrane 206 is proximal to the "bottom" of the reservoir. The retainers are thus another structural adaptation that, in conjunction with the collapsibility of the reservoir, ensures that WVP membrane 206 remains at least partially in contact with liquid water regardless of the orientation of reservoir/cartridge. As depicted most clearly in FIG6C through 6F, membranes 650 and 652, in conjunction with open region 636 as well as the inner surfaces of frame 631, collectively form reservoir 402, which is an implementation of reservoir 202. In some embodiments, both impermeable membranes 650 and 652 comprise urethanes.
sectional view
206
membrane
652
membrane membranes
631
frame
402
reservoir
632
"bottom" surface
638
retainers
['1. A humidification system for use with low-flow oxygen therapy, the humidification system comprising: a reservoir, wherein the reservoir receives a volume of liquid water, and further wherein a liquid capacity of the reservoir is alterable such that instantaneous liquid capacity of the reservoir is substantially equal to instantaneous volume of liquid water in the reservoir; and a tube comprising a water-vapor-permeable (WVP) membrane, wherein a major portion of the tube is contained in the reservoir.']