WO2015165845A1

WO2015165845A1 - Humidifying chamber for humidifying breathable gas

Info

Publication number: WO2015165845A1
Application number: PCT/EP2015/059064
Authority: WO
Inventors: Daniel Heine; Martin Busch; Julia EBERHARDT; Philipp KAPPERT; Bernd RESLO; Markus ROTHFUSS; Norbert RUPPRECHT
Original assignee: ResMed Humidification Technologies GmbH
Priority date: 2014-05-01
Filing date: 2015-04-27
Publication date: 2015-11-05
Also published as: NZ630751A; TW201607573A

Abstract

Humidifying chamber (5200) for humidifying breathable gas, with a chamber top (5210), a tub base (5220), and at least one releasable clip (5250) for clamping chamber top and tub base to form an assembled container adapted to hold a supply of liquid, wherein the releasable clip clamps the chamber top and the tub base along a portion of their perimeter.

Description

1 (A) HUMIDIFYING CHAMBER FOR HUMIDIFYING BREATHABLE GAS

2 (B) BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

2.1 (1) FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[1] The present technology relates to one or more of the diagnosis, treatment and amelioration of respiratory disorders, and to procedures to prevent respiratory disorders. In particular, the present technology relates to medical devices, and their use for treating respiratory disorders and for preventing respiratory disorders. The present invention also relates to humidifiers, particularly to a humidifying chamber for humidifying breathable gas and the assembly and/or sealing thereof.

2.2 (2) DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART

[2] The respiratory system of the body facilitates gas exchange. The nose and mouth form the entrance to the airways of a patient.

[3] The airways include a series of branching tubes, which become narrower, shorter and more numerous as they penetrate deeper into the lung. The prime function of the lung is gas exchange, allowing oxygen to move from the air into the venous blood and carbon dioxide to move out. The trachea divides into right and left main bronchi, which further divide eventually into terminal bronchioles. The bronchi make up the conducting airways, and do not take part in gas exchange. Further divisions of the airways lead to the respiratory bronchioles, and eventually to the alveoli. The alveolated region of the lung is where the gas exchange takes place, and is referred to as the respiratory zone. See West. Respirator}' Physiology- the essentials.

[4] A range of respiratory disorders exist.

[5] Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), a form of Sleep Disordered Breathing

(SDB), is characterized by occlusion or obstruction of the upper air passage during sleep. It results from a combination of an abnormally small upper airway and the normal loss of muscle tone in the region of the tongue, soft palate and posterior oropharyngeal wall during sleep. The condition causes the affected patient to stop breathing for periods l typically of 30 to 120 seconds duration, sometimes 200 to 300 times per night. It often causes excessive daytime somnolence, and it may cause cardiovascular disease and brain damage. The syndrome is a common disorder, particularly in middle aged overweight males, although a person affected may have no awareness of the problem. See US Patent 4,944,310 (Sullivan).

[6] Cheyne-Stokes Respiration (CSR) is a disorder of a patient's respiratory controller in which there arc rhythmic alternating periods of waxing and waning ventilation, causing repetitive de-oxygenation and re-oxygenation of the arterial blood. It is possible that CSR is harmful because of the repetitive hypoxia. In some patients CSR is associated with repetitive arousal from sleep, which causes severe sleep disruption, increased sympathetic activity, and increased afterload. See US Patent 6,532,959 (Berthon-Jones).

[7] Obesity Hyperventilation Syndrome (OHS) is defined as the combination of severe obesity and awake chronic hypercapnia, in the absence of other known causes for hypoventilation. Symptoms include dyspnea, morning headache and excessive daytime sleepiness.

[8] Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) encompasses any of a group of lower airway diseases that have certain characteristics in common. These include increased resistance to air movement, extended expiratory phase of respiration, and loss of the normal elasticity of the lung. Examples of COPD are emphysema and chronic bronchitis. COPD is caused by chronic tobacco smoking (primary risk factor), occupational exposures, air pollution and genetic factors. Symptoms include: dyspnea on exertion, chronic cough and sputum production.

[9] Neuromuscular Disease (NMD) is a broad term that encompasses many diseases and ailments that impair the functioning of the muscles either directly via intrinsic muscle pathology, or indirectly via nerve pathology. Some NMD patients are characterised by progressive muscular impairment leading to loss of ambulation, being wheelchair-bound, swallowing difficulties, respiratory muscle weakness and, eventually, death from respiratory failure. Neuromuscular disorders can be divided into rapidly progressive and slowly progressive: (i) Rapidly progressive disorders: Characterised by muscle impairment, that worsens over months and results in death within a few years (e.g. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) in teenagers); (ii) Variable or slowly progressive disorders: Characterised by muscle impairment that worsens over years and only mildly reduces life expectancy (e.g. Limb girdle, Facioscapulohumeral and Myotonic muscular dystrophy). Symptoms of respiratory failure in NMD include: increasing generalised weakness, dysphagia, dyspnea on exertion and at rest, fatigue, sleepiness, morning headache, and difficulties with concentration and mood changes.

[10] Chest wall disorders are a group of thoracic deformities that result in inefficient coupling between the respiratory muscles and the thoracic cage. The disorders are usually characterised by a restrictive defect and share the potential of long term hypercapnic respiratory failure. Scoliosis and/or kyphoscoliosis may cause severe respiratory failure. Symptoms of respiratory failure include: dyspnea on exertion, peripheral oedema, orthopnea, repeated chest infections, morning headaches, fatigue, poor sleep quality and loss of appetite.

[11] Otherwise healthy individuals may take advantage of systems and devices to prevent respiratory disorders from arising.

2.2.1 Systems

[12] One known product used for treating sleep disordered breathing is the S9

Sleep Therapy System, manufactured by ResMed.

2.2.2 Therapy

[13] Nasal Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy has been used to treat Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). The hypothesis is that continuous positive airway pressure acts as a pneumatic splint and may prevent upper airway occlusion by pushing the soft palate and tongue forward and away from the posterior oropharyngeal wall.

[14] Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) provides ventilator support to a patient through the upper airways to assist the patient in taking a full breath and/or maintain adequate oxygen levels in the body. The ventilator support is provided via a patient interface. NIV has been used to treat OHS, COPD, MD and Chest Wall disorders. [15] Invasive ventilation (IV) provides ventilatory support to patients that are no longer able to effectively breathe themselves and is provided using a tracheostomy tube.

2.2.3 Patient Interface

[16] A patient interface may be used to interface respiratory equipment to its user, for example by providing a flow of air. The flow of air may be provided via a mask to the nose and/or mouth, or via a tracheostomy tube to the trachea of the user. Depending upon the therapy to be applied, the patient interface may form a seal, e.g. with a face region of the patient, to facilitate the delivery of air at a pressure at sufficient variance with ambient pressure to effect therapy, e.g. a positive pressure of about 10cmH2O. For other forms of therapy, such as the delivery of oxygen, the patient interface may not include a seal sufficient to facilitate delivery to the airways of a supply of air at a positive pressure of about 10cmH2O. Some masks suffer from being one or more of obtrusive, aesthetically undesirable, costly, poorly fitting, difficult to use, and uncomfortable especially when worn for long periods of time or when a patient is unfamiliar with a system. Masks designed solely for aviators as part of personal protection equipment or for the administration of anaesthetics may be tolerable for their original application, but nevertheless be undesirably uncomfortable to be worn for extended periods, for example, while sleeping or throughout the day.

2.2.4 Respiratory Pressure Therapy (RPT) device

[17] The air at positive pressure is typically supplied to the airway of a patient by a Respiratory pressure therapy (RPT) device. An RPT device may include a positive airway pressure (PAP) device, a ventilator, a flow generator or a high flow therapy device. RPT devices typically comprise a pressure generator, such as a motor-driven blower or a compressed gas reservoir, and are configured to supply a flow of air to the airway of a patient. In some cases, the flow of air may be supplied to the airway of the patient at positive pressure. The outlet of the RPT device may be connected via an air delivery circuit to a patient interface as described above.

2.2.5 Humidifier

[18] The heating and humidification of medical gases, in particular for artificial respiration and respiration therapy as well as the continuous or intermittent insufflation in the airways or in body cavities or organs has, for several years, in many fields been an accepted necessity for minimizing side effects caused by dehydration and cooling down.

[19] Delivery of a flow of air to a patient's airways without humidification may cause drying of the airways. Medical humidifiers are used to increase humidity and/or temperature of the flow of air in relation to ambient air when required, typically where the patient may be asleep or resting (e.g. at a hospital). As a result, a medical humidifier may be small for bedside placement, and may be configured to humidify and/or heat the flow of air delivered to the patient without humidifying and/or heating the patient's surroundings. Room-based systems (e.g. a sauna, an air conditioner, an evaporative cooler), for example, may also humidify and/or heat air that is breathed in by the patient, however they would do so by humidifying and/or heating the entire room, which may cause discomfort to the occupants.

[20] The use of a humidifier with a RPT device and the patient interface

produces humidified air that minimizes drying of the nasal mucosa and increases patient airway comfort. In addition in cooler climates, warm air applied generally to the face area in and about the patient interface is more comfortable than cold air.

[21] Respiratory humidifiers are available in many forms and may be a

standalone device that is coupled to a RPT device via an air conduit, is integrated with the RPT device or configured to be directly coupled to the relevant RPT device. While known passive humidifiers can provide some relief, generally a heated humidifier may be used to provide sufficient humidity and temperature to the air so that the patient will be comfortable. A non-heated or heated air circuit is generally used to deliver the humidified air from the humidifier to the patient interface.

[22] For heating and humidifying medical gases, in particular for artificial respiration and respiration therapy, essentially, i.a., the following solutions are known and established:

- passover humidification (e.g. by Fisher & Paykel), optionally combined with wick evaporator and/or bubble part counter-flow humidification (Grundler HumiCare) - fluid contact by means of membranes (e.g. Drager Aquamod)

- flash evaporator (e.g. Pari Omni Hydrate)

- bubble humidifier (e.g. Wilamed)

[23] Different kinds of humidification or humidification concepts are discussed in EP 1 558 877 Al the content of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[24] WO 2012065999 Al discloses a humidifier chamber with a chamber bottom mounted to a humidifier chamber component.

3 (C) BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE TECHNOLOGY

[25] The present technology is directed towards providing medical devices used in the diagnosis, amelioration, treatment, or prevention of respiratory disorders having one or more of improved comfort, cost, efficacy, ease of use and manufacturability .

[26] A first aspect of the present technology relates to apparatus and/or method used in the amelioration of treatment or prevention of a respiratory disorder. One form of the present technology comprises a humidifying chamber for humidifying breathable gas with a chamber top and a tub base and at least one releasable clip for clamping chamber top and tub base to form an assembled container adapted to hold a supply of liquid.

[27] Another aspect of one form of the present technology is related to a chamber top and a tub base being sealed via a mechanism being easy to operate by users. Preferably, being easy to operate without requiring the application of significant levels of manual forces for scaling of the parts forming the humidifying chamber. In other words, it is one aspect to provide a device which can be assembled using lower manual forces.

[28] Another aspect of one form of the disclosed technology relates to a mechanism avoiding unintentional disassembly during use. [29] The disclosed technology could also be described by one or several of the following aspects:

[30] The aspects correspond to the claims as annexed hereto.

[31] Of course, portions of the aspects may form sub-aspects of the present technology. Also, various ones of the sub-aspects and/or aspects may be combined in various manners and also constitute additional aspects or sub-aspects of the present technology.

[32] Other features of the technology will be apparent from consideration of the information contained in the following detailed description, abstract, drawings and claims.

4 (D) BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

[33] The present technology is illustrated by way of example, and not by way of limitation, in the figures of the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to similar elements including:

4.1 TREATMENT SYSTEMS

[34] Fig. 1 shows a system in accordance with the present technology. A patient 1000 wearing a patient interface 3000, receives a supply of air at positive pressure from a RPT device 4000. Air from the RPT device is humidified in a humidifier 5000. and passes along an air circuit 4170 to the patient 1000.

4.2 RESPIRATORY SYSTEM

[35] Fig. 2 shows an overview of a human respiratory system including the nasal and oral cavities, the larynx, vocal folds, oesophagus, trachea, bronchus, lung, alveolar sacs, heart and diaphragm.

[36] PATIENT INTERFACE

[37] Fig. 3 shows a patient interface in the form of a nasal mask in accordance with one form of the present technology.

[38] RPT DEVICE [39] Fig. 4a shows a RPT device in accordance with one form of the present technology.

[40] Fig. 4b shows a schematic diagram of the pneumatic path of a RPT device in accordance with one form of the present technology. The directions of upstream and downstream are indicated.

4.3 HUMIDIFIER

[41] Figs. 5a and 5b show perspective views of a humidifier 5000 and of a humidifier module 5100 in accordance with one form of the present technology, respectively.

[42] Fig. 6a shows an exploded view of a humidifying chamber 5200 in accordance with one form of the present technology.

[43] Figs. 6b to 6d show different perspective views of a chamber top 5210.

[44] Fig. 6e is an enlarged view of a part of chamber top 5210 depicted in Fig.

6a.

[45] Figs. 6f and 6g are enlarged views of sections of the chamber flange 5216 viewed generally in the radial direction R, as also indicated in Fig. 1 Oe. The peripheral wall of chamber top 5210 to which the chamber flange 5216 is attached to, is here not shown.

[46] Figs. 7a and 7b show (part of) tub base 5220 of Fig. 6a viewed at an angle from above (Fig. 7a) and below (7b).

[47] Figs. 8a and 8b depict a clip 5250 in accordance with one form of the present technology.

[48] Fig. 9 shows seal 5260 of Fig. 6a in accordance with one form of the present technology.

[49] Fig. 10a to Fig. 10c show different perspective views of chamber 5200 in an angle from above.

[50] Fig. lOd depicts chamber 1 viewed from an angle from below. [51] Figs. lOe and lOf depict, enlarged perspective views of the assembly viewed at an angle from above (Fig. lOe) and from below (Fig. lOf).

[52] Figs. 11a and 1 lb are perspective views of a chamber 5200 in accordance with one form of the present technology.

[53] Fig. 12 shows the tub base 5220 of Fig. 1 lb in a perspective view.

[54] Figs. 13a and 13b are perspective views of chamber top 5210 depicted in

Fig. 11a.

[55] Figs. 14a to 14c show different concepts of guiding a humidifying chamber in a humidifier in accordance with forms of the present technology.

5 (E) DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLES OF THE TECHNOLOGY

[56] Before the present technology is described in further detail, it is to be understood that the technology is not limited to the particular examples described herein, which may vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used in this disclosure is for the purpose of describing only the particular examples discussed herein, and is not intended to be limiting.

5.1 TREATMENT SYSTEMS

[57] In one form, the present technology comprises apparatus for treating a respiratory disorder. The apparatus may comprise a flow generator or blower for supplying pressurised respirator}' gas, such as air. to the patient 1000 via an air delivery tube leading to a patient interface 3000.

5.2 PATIENT INTERFACE 3000

[58] A non-invasive patient interface 3000 in accordance with one aspect of the present technology comprises the following functional aspects: a seal-forming structure 3100, a plenum chamber 3200, a positioning and stabilising structure 3300 and one form of connection port 3600 for connection to air circuit 4170 (see Fig. 1. 3). In some forms a functional aspect may be provided by one or more physical components. In some forms, one physical component may provide one or more functional aspects. In use the seal-forming structure 3100 is arranged to surround an entrance to the airways of the patient so as to facilitate the supply of air at positive pressure to the airways.

[59] The patient interface 3000 may include one or more of the following

additional components: a forehead support 3700 that assists with supporting the patient interface on the face; a vent 3400 constructed and arranged to allow for the washout of exhaled carbon dioxide; an anti-asphyxia valve to allow a patient 1000 to receive fresh air into the patient interface 3000 if required; a decoupling structure such as a swivel or a ball and socket to allow movement of the patient interface relative to the air circuit; and one or more ports to allow access to the volume within the plenum chamber. In one form this allows a clinician to supply supplemental oxygen. In one form, this allows for the direct measurement of a property of gases within the plenum chamber, such as the pressure.

5.3 RESPIRATORY PRESSURE THERAPY (RPT) DEVICE

[60] A RPT device 4000 in accordance with one aspect of the present

technology comprises mechanical and pneumatic components 4100, electrical components 4200 and is programmed to execute one or more algorithms. An exemplary RPT device has an external housing 4010, formed in two parts, an upper portion 4012 and a lower portion 4014. Furthermore, the external housing 4010 may include one or more panel(s) 4015. The RPT device 4000 may comprise a chassis 4016 that supports one or more internal components of the RPT device 4000. In one form a pneumatic block 4020 is supported by, or formed as part, of the chassis 4016. The RPT device 4000 may include a handle 4018.

[61] The pneumatic path of the RPT device 4000 may comprise an inlet, air filter 4112, an inlet muffler 4122, a controllable pressure device 4140 capable of supplying air at positive pressure (e.g., a blower 4142). and an outlet muffler 4124. One or more transducers 4270 such as pressure sensors, flow sensors, motor speed transducers, temperature sensors and humidity sensors may be included in the pneumatic path. [62] A pneumatic block 4020 houses at least the controllable pressure device

4140 (e.g. blower 4142). The pneumatic block may comprise a portion of the pneumatic path that is located within the external housing 4010.

[63] The RPT device 4000 may have an electrical power supply 4210, one or more input devices 4220. a central controller, a therapy device controller, a therapy device, one or more protection circuits, memory, transducers 4270, data communication interface and one or more output devices. Electrical components 4200 may be mounted on a single Printed Circuit Board Assembly (PCBA) 4202. In an alternative form, the RPT device 4000 may include more than one PCBA 4202.

[64] In one form, of the present technology, a pressure generator 4140 for producing a flow, or a supply, of air at positive pressure is a controllable blower 4142. For example the blower 4142 may include a brushless DC motor 4144 with one or more impellers housed in a volute. The blower may be preferably capable of delivering a supply of air, for example at a rate of up to about 120 litres/minute, at a positive pressure in a range from about 4 cmH20 to about 20 cmH20, or in other forms up to about 30 cmH2G. The blower may be as described in any one of the following patents or patent applications the contents of which are incorporated herein in their entirety: U.S. patent number 7,866,944; U.S. patent number 8,638,014; U.S. Patent number 8,636,479; and PCT patent application publication number WO 2 13/020167.

[65] The central controller of the RPT device 4000 may be programmed to execute one or more algorithm modules, including a pre-processing module, a therapy engine module, a pressure control module, and further a fault condition module.

[66] An RPT device may comprise one or more of the following components in an integral unit. In an alternative form, one or more of the following components may be located as respective separate units:

[67] (i) One or more air filter 4110 such as an inlet air filter 4112 located at the beginning of the pneumatic path upstream of a pressure generator 4140 and/or an outlet air filter 41 14, for example an antibacterial filter, located between an outlet, of the pneumatic block 4020 and a patient interface 3000. See Fig. 4b. [68] (ii) One or more mufflers 4120 such as an inlet muffler 4122 located in the pneumatic path upstream of a pressure generator 4140. and/or an outlet muffler 4124 located in the pneumatic path between the pressure generator 4140 and a patient interface 3000. See Fig. 4b.

[69] (iii) An anti-spill back valve may be located between the humidifier 5000 and the pneumatic block 4020. The anti-spill back valve is constructed and arranged to reduce the risk that water will flow upstream from the humidifier 5000, for example to the motor 4144.

[70] (iv) Supplemental oxygen 4180 may be delivered to one or more points in the pneumatic path, such as upstream of the pneumatic block 4020, to the air circuit 4170 and/or to the patient interface 3000.

5.4 HUMIDIFIER

[71] In one form of the present technology there is provided a humidifier 5000 comprising a water reservoir or humidification chamber 5200 and received in a humidification module 5100 comprising a heating plate 5120.

[72] Fig. 5a depicts a humidifier 5000 comprising a humidification module

5100 receiving a humidifying chamber 5200.

[73] As shown in Fig. 5b, the humidification module 5100 may comprise equipment interfaces 5150a, 5150b and 5150c for connecting to additional equipment, electrical interfaces 5152 and/or optical interface 5156 as further explained in WO2012/065999 Al the content of which is incorporated herein by reference. The disclosed humidifier 5000 may comprise a humidification module 5100 adapted to receive a humidifying chamber 5200. The humidifier 5000 may comprise two receiving sections 5160. preferably located adjacent the heating plate 5120. adapted to receive base mechanical guides 5240 of tub base 5220. preferably so as to hold chamber 5200 on heating plate 5120. Humidifier 5000 may also comprise lateral guiding wall portions 5165 along which, according to optional aspects of the technology, base mechanical guides 5215 of chamber top 5210 may be guided. [74] Fig. 6a depicts an exploded view of humidifying chamber 5200 comprising chamber top or upper part 5210 and tub base or lower part 5220. Tub base 5220 is located below chamber top 5210. Between chamber top 5210 and tub base 5220 may be located a seal 5260, preferably being received on the inner side wall of tub base 5220. The lower surface of chamber top 5210 may press against the upper surface of seal 5260 thereby pressing seal 5260. In some arrangements the seal 5260 is pressed, on a sealing seat, the seat preferably being located at the radius of transition 5227 provided on tub base 5220. Tub base 5220 may comprise a cut out or groove 5228 into which a protrusion 5219 (Fig. 6d) of chamber top 5210 may be inserted. This may assist positioning of chamber top with relation to chamber base and/or contribute to the application of clamping and sealing forces along the seal.

[75] Chamber top 5210 and tub base 5220, when assembled and clamped and held together by clip 5250 form an assembled container adapted to hold a supply of liquid. The water level in such container when filled may be above a chamber clamping surface 5216 of the chamber top 5210 and a base clamping surface 5226 of the tub base 5220 which are sealingly connected. Clip 5250 may be configured as a releasable clip being releasably connected to chamber 5200, here to respective portions 5216, 5226 which may be configured as laterally protruding flange portions. Chamber top 5210 and tub base 5220 may form at least a portion of the humidifying chamber 5200. As further shown in Figs. 10a to 1 Of, releasable clip 5250 may clamp chamber top 5210 and tub base 5220 along a portion of their perimeters.

[76] Figs. 6b to 6d depict different views of chamber top 5210. Chamber top

5210 may be made of a resin material. Chamber top 5210 may be made of a transparent and/or translucent material. In some arrangements at least 50%, preferably at least 70%, more preferably more than 80% and most preferably at least 90% of the volume of the humidifying chamber, preferably of the fluid, may be provided in chamber top 5210. In other words, the humidifying liquid is stored in and predominantly above tub base 5220 inside chamber top 5210, preferably made of a transparent material. A substantial part of tub base 5220, preferably the whole tub base is made of a heat conductive material, e.g., a metal material. The combination of a tub base 5220 made of metal material and a separate chamber top 5210 made of resin material may be particularly suitable for sterilization at higher temperatures. Prior art device using a tub base with a metal base plate and integrally formed therewith plastic side walls tend to break easily since die different thermal extension behaviour of resin materials and metal lead to increased thermal stresses in the tub base which ultimately may lead to a reduced lifetime. On the other hand, a water tub with side walls made of metal material would increase the material and production costs. Moreover, the filling level would not be visible from the outside without additional measures.

[77] In an alternative arrangement, not shown, the tub base 5220 may form a larger portion of the assembled container being a cup-like shape with an upper base clamping surface 5226. For example the tub base may form at least 30%, preferably at least 50%, more preferably more than 60% and most preferably at least 75% of the volume of the humidifying chamber, preferably of the fluid, which may be provided in the tub base. In some such arrangements the water level in the container when filled may be below the chamber clamping surface 5216. In such an arrangement the lower side walls of the tub base 5220 may comprise base mechanical guides 5240 adapted to guide the chamber 5200 or the assembled container into or within humidifier 5000. These mechanical guides may be located distant from the base clamping surface.

[78] The Chamber 5200 may be adapted to be connected to a path of breathing gas to be humidified. In particular, chamber 5200 may be adapted to be connected to an air delivery tube 4170 and/or to a RPT device 4000. Chamber 5200 may comprise at least one gas inlet 5212 and/or at least one gas outlet 5214 for connection to the path of breathing gas. The at least one gas inlet 5212 and/or at least one gas outlet 5214 are preferably located in the chamber top 5210. Chamber 5200 also may comprise a probe connector 5217 adapted to receive a plug-in probe and/or a Luer-connector 5218.

[79] Chamber top 5210 may comprise a chamber clamping surface 5216, here configured as a chamber flange. The chamber clamping surface 5216 in the form of a chamber flange may comprise a chamber rim portion 5216-1 which may be interrupted by chamber receiving portions 5234- 1. Chamber receiving portions 5234- 1 may be configured as recesses. In the depicted embodiment the protruding chamber flange 5216 comprises two chamber receiving portions 5234-1. Chamber rim portion 5216-1 may be obtained by recessing a portion of the chamber flange 5216 to form a chamber recess portion 5216-2. as depicted in Figs. 6b to 6c. In other words, chamber flange 5216 protruding from the outer surface of the chamber top 5210 may exhibit a recessed shape including chamber recess portion 5216-2 and the chamber rim portions 5216-1. The chamber rim portions 5216-1 form the outer limit of the chamber recess portion 5216-2 extending between the chamber rim portion 5216-1 and the outer surface of the chamber top 5210. Also shown is a position marker M l marking a first position PI as will be further explained below.

[80] Fig. 6e depicts an enlarged view of the chamber clamping surface or chamber flange 5216 of the chamber top 5210. Arrow D2, C depicts the direction along the perimeter of chamber top 5210 which herein may also be referred to as circumferential or tangential direction. As further explained below, clip 5250 is adapted to slide along perimeter D2. Moreover, clip 5250 is adapted to clamp chamber top 5210 and tub base 5220 along a portion of the perimeter of chamber top 5210 and/or tub base 5220. Arrow D l designates a first direction being a substantial radial direction R of chamber top 5210. First direction Dl is preferably generally perpendicular to second direction D2 being substantially parallel to perimeter C. Here, it is to be noted that, while humidifying chamber 5200 is depicted to have a curved, preferably round and more preferably circular cross-section, other cross sectional shapes may be applied. Direction Dl may thus also or alternatively be referred to as being directed from the outside to the inside of the chamber and direction D2 may be referred to as directed along the outside of the chamber.

[81] Figs. 6e to 6g depict one chamber receiving portion 5234- 1 being recessed compared to adjacent (here) right portion of the chamber flange 5216 and compared to adjacent (here) left chamber rim portion 5216- 1. The right portion of the chamber flange 5216 may be configured as a chamber mechanical guide 5215. Chamber receiving portion 5234- 1 may be configured as defining an engaging position PI into which a portion of the clip 5250 may be inserted by radially moving the clip 5250 in the direction R towards chamber top 5210. A chamber retaining portion 5234-2 may be adapted to retain a first protrusion 5252 (Fig. 8a) extendin from the clip 5250 so as to avoid or reduce movement of the clip 5250 in a radial direction R away from the chamber top 5210. The chamber retaining portion 5234-2 may be configured as an undercut portion or as a groove or recess. The chamber top 5210, preferably the chamber clamping surface(s) 5216 may also comprise a section of increased or of increasing thickness 5234-3 which is here located in and forms part of the chamber retaining portion 5234-2. Preferably, the section of increasing thickness 5234-3 is located between the chamber receiving portion 5234-1 defining the first or engaging position PI and the second position P2 which constitutes a final position of the clamp and/or clip vis-a-vis the chamber top 5210 and the tub base 5220 when the chamber top and tub base are sealingly clamped. The section of increasing thickness 5234-3 may also include an inclined surface on the chamber recess portion 5216-2 between the first position PI and the second position P2. The section of increasing thickness 5234-3 may be inclined relative to the chamber clamping section at the second position P2 and/or to the first receiving portion 5234-1 at the first position PI . The surface of the receiving portion 5234-1 at the first position PI may be parallel to the chamber clamping surface at the second position P2. Preferably, the section of increasing thickness 5234-3 offsets the surfaces at the first and second position PI , P2, preferably in an axial direction D3 of the chamber top. Direction D3 may also be generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the assembled container or chamber 5200. Direction D3 may be generally perpendicular to directions D l and D2.

[82] Here, the thickness in the direction D3 of the chamber clamping surface and the chamber flange 5216 may physically increase and/or the distance in the direction D3 between the chamber clamping surface 5216 vis-a-vis an opposing base clamping surface 5226. e.g., on the tub base, may increase. Also, the level of the chamber clamping surface 5216 may change vis-a-vis other portions of the path of clip 5250. The thickness in the direction D3 of only one or of both of the chamber flange 5210 and the tub flange 5220 may vary. All this may be understood as encompassed by reference to an increased thickness. This section of increasing thickness 5234-3 may be a transitional section. The thickness may be increased compared to the thickness of chamber receiving portion 5234- 1 . However, the thickness might be reduced compared to chamber rim portion 5216- 1 or other portions of the chamber flange 5216, for instance compared to chamber mechanical guide 5215. In other words, chamber receiving portion 5234- 1. chamber retaining portion 5234-2 and/or section of increasing thickness 5234-3 may be configured as recessed portions in the chamber flange 5216 (cf. Fig. 6e). Chamber receiving portion 5234- 1. preferably the recessed portion thereof, may comprise a chamfered edge preferably facilitating insertion of the clip in the first direction D l . [83] Fig. 7a and Fig. 7b show the tub base 5220. Tub base 5220 is preferably made of a heat conductive material. Tub base 5220 may comprise a bottom portion 5222 which may be substantially flat. Moreover, tub base 5220 may comprise a side portion 5224 extending from bottom portion 5222, preferably substantially perpendicular. A groove or cut out 5228 may be located in side portion 5224. Although only one cut out 5228 is shown, a multitude of cut outs 5228 also having different shapes than the elongate shape shown in Fig. 7a may be provided. Cut out 5228 may be adapted to be engaged with the protrusions 5219 of chamber top 5210. Protrusion 5219 and groove or cut out 5228 are preferably located opposite of clip 5250 in the assembled state.

[84] Tub base 5220 may comprise base mechanical guides 5240 adapted to guide the chamber 5200 or the assembled container into or within humidifier 5000. Here, the tub base 5220 comprises two base mechanical guides 5240 configured as laterally extending wing portions in Figs. 7a and 7b, which may be adapted to be inserted into receiving sections 5160 depicted in Fig. 5b. Base mechanical guides 5240 may be integrally formed with tub base 5220. At the free end thereof a substantially upwardly extending wall portion may comprise a preferably inclined upper surface 5240-1 which may be adapted to be resiliently received in receiving section 5160 so as to hold the assembled container or chamber 5200 in the humidification module 51 0. Tub base 5220 may comprise a sealing seat which may be located at side wall 5224. preferably at a distance from both the bottom portion 5222 and a base clamping surface 5226.

[85] As best seen in Fig. 7b the tub base 5220 may comprise a base clamping surface 5226. shown in the form of a base flange 5226. Base flange or clamping surface 5226 may comprise a base rim or bead portion 5226- 1 which may extend downwardly from base flange 5226. Base rim portion 5226-1 may be interrupted by recesses which may be configured as a base receiving portion 5242- 1 for clip 5250. Here, tub base 5220 comprises three base receiving portions 5242-1. Base rim or bead portion 5226- 1 may be formed by metal forming, preferably by plastic deformation of base flange 5226. Base rim portion 5226-1 may also be manufactured by recessing the lower side of the base flange 5226 so as to form base retaining or undercut portions 5242-2 further explained below. The base flange or clamping surface 5226 may comprise at least one section of increasing base thickness (not shown). At least one section of base increasing thickness may he configured and arranged in the same manner at the base clamping surface / base flange 5226 as at the section of increasing flange thickness of the chamber clamping surface / chamber flange 5216 as described above. Clip 5250 may be adapted to move or slide along the section(s) of increasing thickness when being moved from the first position P I into the second position P2.

[86] Chamber rim portion 5216-1 of chamber top 5210 as well as base rim portion 5226- 1 of tub base 5220 extend or protrude, preferably generally perpendicular, from the surface of the respective chamber flange 5216 and base flange 5226 being opposite the interfacing surfaces of both flanges 5216, 5226. Chamber rim portion 5216-1 and base rim portion 5226- 1 may substantially extend along the flange(s) at least in the portions where clip 5250 will be located after assembly. Chamber rim portion 5216-1 and base rim portion 5226-1 may be produced by recessing the chamber flange 5216 and /or base flange 5226 thereby forming chamber retaining portion 5234-2 and base retaining portion 5242-2 respectively, preferably adjacent the chamber receiving portion 5234-1 and the base receiving portion 5242-1 respectively.

[87] Figs. 8a and 8b are perspective views of clip 5250. Clip 5250 may have a generally longitudinal shape. Clip 5250 may have a longitudinal axis substantially parallel to the extension of the chamber flange 5216 and/or base flange 5226 after assembly. Clip 5250 may have an arch shape. The arch shape may include a circle- segment shape, preferably with a curvature. Said curvature may generally correspond to the curvature of the movement from the first engaging position PI to second engaging position P2. In other words, the curvature may substantially correspond to the curvature of portions of chamber top 5210 and/or tub base 5220 being adjacent clip 5250 in the assembled position.

[88] Clip 5250 may comprise at least one first clip clamping surface 5252- la configured to exert a clamping force on at least one chamber clamping surface 5216 of the chamber top 5210. Clip 5250 may comprise at least one second clip clamping surface 5254- la configured to exert a clamping force to a base clamping surface 5226 of the tub base 5220. First and second clip clamping surfaces 5252- l a, 5254- l a may be formed on opposing sides of clip 5250 and may face generally towards each other. However, the preferably opposing clip clamping surfaces may be arranged with an offset in the axial (longitudinal) direction of the clip (i.e. the tangential or peripheral direction of the humidifying chamber). After assembly, clip clamping surfaces 5252- ί a, 5254- l a preferably abut or clamp against correspondin chamber and/or base clamping surfaces 5216, 5226 of chamber top 5210 and/or tab base 5220 respectively, as discussed further below.

[89] Clip 5250 may have a substantially C-shaped or U-shaped cross-sectional portion. The C-shaped or U-shaped cross-sectional portion may include the first and second clip clamping surfaces 5252-1 a, 5254- l a. As depicted in Fig. 8a, at least one first protrusion 5252 may protrude from the interior side 5250-1 of clip 5250. First protrusion 5252 may have a hook shape and may be adapted to face in the assembled position chamber top 5210 and/or tub base 5220. Preferably, protrusion 5252 provides first clip clamping surface 5252- l a. Clip 5250 may comprise second protrusions 5254 protruding from interior side 5250- 1 . Second protrusion 5254 may also have a hook shape and may provide a second clip clamping surface 5254- la being adapted to engage the other of the chamber and base clamping surfaces 5216, 5226. First and second protrusions 5252, 5254 and/or first and second clip clamping surfaces 5252- l a, 5254- l a may be offset with respect to each other in the peripheral direction D2 of chamber 5200. Interior side 5250-1 may face at least a portion of chamber top 5210 and/or tub base 5220 in the assembled position and may be configured as a curved or circle segment. First protrusion 5252 may be configured as a flange or rim. Clip 5250 may comprise a second rim 5258 (not shown but indicated by dotted line on Fig. 8a) being the prolongation of the line connecting the three depicted second protrusions 5254.

[90] Clip 5250 may comprise at least one grip 5255. Grip 5255 may protrude laterally outwardly after assembly. Grip 5255 may be used by the clinical staff to apply a force in a circumferential directio during assembly.

[91] Clip 5250, chamber 5200 and humidification module 5100 are preferably configured so that the humidification module encloses chamber 5200, particularly clip 5250, so that clip 5250 cannot be slid from the interlocking position P2 to the non- interlocking position PI without prior removal of the chamber 5200 from the humidification module 5100. This may be achieved by the restriction of the movement of clip 5250 in the second direction D2 along the perimeter when the chamber is received in the module 5100. [92] Clip 5250 may comprise first and/or second protrusions 5252- 1. 5254- 1 extending preferably in a direction parallel to the axial direction of the assembled container or chamber 5200. The protrusions 5252-1, 5254-1 may define a retaining portion adapted to avoid or reduce movement of the clip in the radial direction R (first direction Dl) in interrelation with corresponding chamber rim portion 5216- 1 and base rim portion 5226-1 on the humidifying chamber 5200. i.e., on chamber top 5210 and tub base 5220.

[93] In the shown embodiment protrusions 5252-1, 5254- 1 may extend

generally perpendicular to first and second protrusions 5252, 5254. Here, first and second clip clamping surfaces 5252- la, 5254- 1 a are located at the front end of first and second protrusions 5252- 1. 5254- 1. They may be located in different areas of the clip. First and second retainin portions 5252-1 , 5254-1 may be adapted to engage, preferably interlock, with respective chamber and base retaining portions 5234-2, 5242- 2 of chamber top 5210 and/or tub base 5220 respectively. Retaining protrusions 5252-1, 5254- 1 may be configured as laterally protruding ends 5252- 1 , 5254- 1 protruding towards the respective engaged chamber flange 5216 and base flange 5226 in the assembled container or humidifying chamber 5200. Retaining protrusions 5252-1, 5254- 1 may extend from at least one of the clip clamping surfaces, preferably at a distance from interior side 5250-1. First and second laterally protruding ends 5252- 1 , 5254- 1 may be located at the free end of first and second protrusions 5252, 5254. First and second laterally protruding ends 5252- 1 , 5254- 1 may be adapted to interlock with respective chamber retaining portion 5234-2 and base retaining portion 5242-2.

[94] Clip 5250 may comprise first and second rims 5256. 5258 preferably covering at least a portion chamber and/or base flanges 5216, 5226. First and/or second rims 5256, 5258 are preferably integrally formed with at least one first and/or second protrusion 5252. 5254. Rim 5256 may be provided with a rim recess 5256-1 .

[95] Fig. 9 depicts a seal 5260 to be disposed between chamber top 5210 and tub base 5220. Here, seal 5260 has a generally round shape with a substantially rectangular cross section. It is noted that seal 5260 may have any suitable shape to seal chamber top 5210 and tub base 5220, the shape is preferably complementary to the perimeter shape of the chamber top 5210 and tub base 5220. For instance, seal 5260 may also have a cross-sectional shape being substantially L-shaped. This may be of particular advantage for sealing when being clamped between, e.g., mating square- shouldered surfaces of chamber top and tub base.

[96] Figs. 10a to lOd depict releasable clip 5250, chamber top 5210 and tub base 5220 after assembly. Releasable clip 5250 embraces a portion of chamber top 5210 and a portion of tub base 5220. In particular clip 5250 may embrace or cover a portion of chamber flange 5216 and base flange 5226.

[97] Chamber top 5210 and tub base 5220 are adapted to allow positioning in the first position PI in which the respective markings M l of clip 5250 and chamber top 5210 may be aligned. First engaging position PI may be the only defined single position. In this first engaging position PI , clip 5250 is preferably connected to chamber top 5210 and/or tub base 5220, more preferably not in an interlocking manner but in a position allowing for subsequent interlocking. In this first position PI clip 5250 may apply no clamping forces or only low clamping forces, preferably via clip clamping surfaces onto chamber top 5210 and/or tub base 5220, preferably onto the chamber and base clamping surfaces 5216, 5226 of the chamber top 5210 and/or tub base 5220 respectively.

[98] Releasable clip 5250 may be moved or slid into a second engaging position P2 along a peripheral direction C bein the second direction D2 (see Fig. 10b). Clip 5250 and chamber and base flanges 5216, 5226 may provide a bayonet coupling 5230 further explained below. Clip 5250 may be moved from the first position PI into the second position P2 preferably by a unidirectional movement along a, potentially curved, line. Preferably, the movement does not involve any pivoting or tilting of clip 5250. The clip may move in a direction C along the perimeter of the chamber, preferably substantially parallel to the chamber and base clamping surfaces 5216, 5226 of chamber top 5210 and tub base 5220.

[99] Second position P2 may be a clamping position in which chamber top

5210 and/or tub base 5220, preferably via their flanges 5216, 5226 are sealingly connected with each other. In the second position P2 clip 5250 may apply higher clamping force than the clamping forces which may be applied in the first position PI , also preferably via clip clamping surfaces 5252- l a, 5254- la to chamber top 5210 and/or tub base 5220, preferably to the clamping surfaces 5216, 5226 of chamber top 5210 and/or tub base 5220. The second engagement position P2 may be configured as an interlocking position P2. Preferably, the flange and base retaining portions 5234-2, 5242-2 are aligned with one another.

[100] To mount releasable clip 5250, clip 5250 is firstly moved in a first direction Dl or radial direction R in order to move clip 5250 into the first connecting or engaging position PI in which, preferably, the respective marking Ml of clip 5250 and chamber top 5210 are aligned. Out of this position PI clip 5250 may be slid in a second direction D2. preferably being the tangential or circumferential direction, into the second position P2. The first engaging position PI is the defined position at which the direction of movement is preferably changed from the first direction D l to the second direction D2.

[101] Fig. l Oe and Fig. l f are enlarged views of the chamber top 5210, tub base 5220 and clip 5250 after assembly. Clip 5250 is shown in the second engaging position P2. Here, second position P2 i an interlocking position. First and second protrusions 5252. 5254. here more precisely first and second laterally protruding ends 5252-1. 5254- 1 may comprise the first and second clip clamping surfaces 5252- 1 a. 5254- l a clamping respective chamber and base clamping surfaces 5216, 5226 of chamber top 5210 and/or tub base 5220, preferably in the second position P2 so as to sealingly clamp and thus connect chamber top 5210 and tub base 5220. The chamber and/or base clamping surfaces of chamber top 5210 and tub base 5220 are formed as flanges in the illustrated embodiments. The chamber and base flanges 5216, 5226 may also be considered as chamber and base shoulders 5216, 5226. The chamber and base clamping surfaces 5216, 5226 of chamber top 5210 and/or tub base 5220 may be formed on opposing sides and may face generally away from each other. The chamber and base clamping surfaces 5216. 5226 of chamber top 5210 and tub base 5220 may be arranged with an offset or distanced in the peripheral second direction D2. The chamber clamping surface 5216 and/or base clamping surface 5226 may extend at least at a portion along the perimeter of chamber top 5210 and/or tub base 5220 respectively, for instance, alon the chamber retaining portion 5234-2 and/or the base retaining portion 5242-2 respectively. The chamber and/or base clamping surfaces 5216. 5226 preferably extend substantially parallel to the clip clamping surfaces 5252- l a, 5254- l a. The clamping surfaces 5216. 5226 of chamber top 5210 and tub base 5220 may extend substantially parallel, similarly also the clip clamping surfaces 5252- l a, 5254- la may extend substantially parallel.

[102] The clamping surfaces 5216, 5226, 5252-la, 5254-1 a may extend substantially horizontally, particularly in a position of use. The retaining portions 5234- 2, 5242-2 may extend substantially vertically, particularly in a position of use. Alternatively, clamping and retaining surfaces may be embodied in a single surface while, e.g., the respective clamping/retaining surfaces on the chamber top, tub base and clip may form a dove-tail connection.

[103] Preferably, the chamber top 5210 may comprise a chamber receiving portion 5234-1, a section of increasing flange thickness 5234-3 and a chamber retaining portion or clamping section 5234-2. Also the tub base 5220 preferably comprises a base receiving portion 5242-1 , a section of increasing flange thickness and a base retaining portion or clamping section 5242-2. The second engaging position P2 may be defined by the clamping sections 5234-2, 5242-2. Here, between first and second positions PI and P2 may be located the portion of an increased flange thickness 5234-3. Increased thickness may be understood to mean that the overall thickness of the chamber and base flanges 5216, 5226 being positioned one above another gradually increases, preferably in the second direction D2 depicted in Fig. 10b. Alternatively, the thickness as such may not need to increase, however, the distance between opposing chamber and base clamping surfaces 5216, 5226 of the chamber top 5210 and the tub base 5220 increases. Clip 5250 may be adapted to slide along portions 5234-1, 5234-2 and 5234-3 of the chamber flange 5216 and along portions 5242-1 , 5242-2 of the base flange, preferably located on the surfaces of chamber and base flanges 5216, 5226 respectively facing away from each other. The chamber and base clamping surfaces may be provided at least in portions 5234-2, 5234-3, and 5242-2, most preferably on the chamber top 5210 and the tub base 5220.

[104] In other words, clip clamping surfaces 5252- l a, 5254- la may be adapted to slide in the peripheral direction D2 along surface portions of chamber top 5210 and tub base 5210. The relative distance in the axial direction D3 between said surface portions of chamber top 5210 and tub base 5220 being in contact with the clip clamping surfaces may increase along the peripheral direction D2 thereby preferably urging the clip clamping surfaces 5252- l a, 5254- la away from each other in the direction parallel to axial direction D3. This may cause a clamping force applied on the surface portions of chamber top 5210 and tub base 5220 contacting the clip. Preferably, the further the clip slides the higher are the clamping forces transmitted by the clip clamping surfaces 5252- la, 5254- la. The clamping forces are preferably oriented so as to clamp chamber top 5210 and tub base 5220 together thereby increasing the sealing effect. When the clip travels into the second position P2 the clip clamping forces achieved a level securely sealing the assembled container.

[105] Chamber top 5210 and/or tub base 5220 may comprise chamber and base retaining portions 5234-2, 5242-2 adapted to engage with the retaining portion(s) 5252- ί , 5254- 1 of clip 5250 thereby preferably avoiding or restricting movement in the radial direction R. Here, chamber and base rim portions 5216-1 , 5226- 1 and laterally protruding ends 5252- 1 . 5254- 1 may be interlocked in the radial direction R of assembled container or humidifying chamber 5200. Laterally protruding ends 5252-1 , 5254-1 may be protruding in a direction D3 generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the assembled container or chamber 5200. Protruding ends 5252-1, 5254-1 may be adapted to slide along a portion of the chamber and/or base clamping surfaces 5216, 5226 of chamber top 5210 or tub base 5220. Protruding ends 5252- 1. 5254-1 and rim portions 5216- 1 , 5226- 1 may comprise retaining surfaces 5252- l b, 5254- l b, 5216- l a, 5226- l a avoiding or restricting the movement in a radial direction R of chamber top 5210 and tub base 5220. First and second protrusions 5252, 5254 may be interlocked in the chamber retaining portion 5234-2 and base retaining portion 5242-2. These chamber retaining portion 5234-2 and base retaining portion 5242-2 may be formed as undercuts.

[106] Chamber top 5210 and tub base 5220 comprise chamber and base receiving portions 5234- 1 , 5242- 1 configured as recessed portions adapted to receive the generally C-shaped element of clip 5250 in the depicted embodiment. The general C- or U-shape is formed by first and second protrusions 5252, 5254, preferably being offset in a circumferential direction.

[107] As first and second protrusions 5252, 5254 slide along the section of increasing flange thickness 5234-3 the clamping force exerted by first and second protrusions, more specifically by first and second clip clamping surfaces 5252- la, 5254- ia, gradually increases. The difference between the distance of opposing clip clamping surfaces 5252- l a. 5254- l a to the respective distance between opposing chamber and base clamping surfaces of chamber top 5210 and tub base 5220 clamped there between decreases as the clip advances on the section of increasing flange thickness 5234-3. The figures show a shoulder configured as a flange. Instead of radially outwardly (i.e. in radial direction R depicted in Fig lOe) extending chamber and base flange(s) 5216, 5226 also radially inwardly extending recesses may be configured in similar locations to the flange(s) in order to interact similarly with a corresponding clip 5250 so as to provide the bayonet type assembly of clip 5250, chamber top 5210 and tub base 5220. Also, instead of, e.g., chamber and base flanges 5216, 5226 shown and discussed herein also corresponding recesses or the like may be foreseen with corresponding design of the clip. 8] Fig. 1 1 a depicts a chamber 5200 with chamber top 5210 and tub base

5220. Chamber top 5210 may comprise a gas inlet 5212, a gas outlet 5214, a probe connector 5217 and/or a Luer connector 5218. Chamber flange 5216 is arranged at the lower end of chamber top 5210 and extends along a portion of the perimeter. Chamber mechanical guides 5215 are provide at both ends of chamber flange 5216. Here, chamber mechanical guides 5215 are located adjacent base mechanical guides 5240 of tub base 5220, the base mechanical guides being shown as wing portions. The base mechanical guide 5240 and chamber mechanical guide 5215 of chamber top 5210 together form a channel which may be used for guiding the assembled container or chamber 5200 within the humidification module 5100. Chamber and base mechanical guides 5215, 5240 may also serve to bias tub base 5220 against a heater plate 5120 of humidification module 5100. Chamber top 5210 and tub base 5220 may be additionally held by releasable clip 5250 (not shown). Clip 5250 may be adapted to embrace and/or clamp chamber top 5210 and tub base 5220 along a portion of their perimeter, preferably a portion along chamber and base flanges 5216, 5226. The chamber and base flanges 5216, 5226 may comprise a chamber rim portion 5216- 1 and base rim portion 5226- 1 respectively, preferably at the outer end. Releasable clip 5250 may comprise a substantially hook-shaped or C-shaped or U-shaped cross section being adapted to be clipped onto chamber and base flanges 5216, 5226. Preferably, clip 5250 and chamber and base flanges 5216, 5226 are interlocked after the clip has been clipped on the chamber and base flanges 5216, 5226. For this purpose chamber and base flanges 5216, 5226 may comprise an undercut retaining portion located behind chamber and base rim portions 5116-1, 5226- 1 radially inwardly. The assembled container shown in Figs. 1 1a and 1 lb comprises a chamber flange 5216 which is located at a distance, a, to the upper connecting surface of tub base 5220, as best seen in Fig. l ib. Protruding element 5232 of chamber top 5210 may be configured to be received in base recess 5244, preferably located in side wall 5224 of tub base 5220. As best seen in Fig. 12, tub base 5220 may comprise three base recesses 5244. Each base recess 5244 may comprise a recess receiving portion 5244- 1 and a recess undercut portion 5244-2. Base recess 5244 is preferably substantially L-shaped. In other words, recess receiving portion 5244- 1 and recess undercut portion 5244-2 together constitute a substantially L-shaped path. Protruding element 5232 may be adapted to be guided along the substantially L-shaped path. Thus, the bayonet coupling 5230 may comprise a protrudin element 5232, a recess receiving portion 5244-1 and a recess undercut section 5244-2. Protruding element 5232 may be introduced into a recess receiving portion 5244-1 of tub base 5220 by a relative movement of protruding element 5232 in the recess receiving portion 5244-1 substantially in a first direction Dl into a first position. The bayonet coupling may be locked in the first direction by a relative movement of protruding element 5232 and of the recess undercut portion 5244-2 substantially in a second direction D2 traversal to first direction D l , preferably at an angle a of about 60° to 120°, more preferably about 80° to 100°, further preferably about 85° to 95° and most preferably about 90°. Fig. 13a and Fig. 13b depict chamber top 5210 having three protruding elements 5232 arranged along the perimeter. ] Figs. 14a to 14c depict different configurations of base and chamber mechanical guides 5240, 5215. The base and chamber mechanical guides depicted in Fig. 14a correspond to the mechanical guide depicted in Figs. 1 1 a to 12. The base mechanical guide 5240 of tub base 5220 in Fig. 14b additionally comprises a bent upper wall 5240- 1. This may increase the upper surface preferably being in contact with humidifying module 5100. Chamber mechanical guide 5215 of chamber top 5210 shown in Fig. 14c comprises a cover substantially covering base mechanical guide 5240 of tub base 5220. 5.5 GLOSSARY

[110] For the purposes of the present technology disclosure, in certain forms of the present technology, one or more of the following definitions may apply. In other forms of the present technology, alternative definitions may apply.

5.5.1 General

[111] Air. In certain forms of the present technology, air supplied to a patient may be atmospheric air, and in other forms of the present technology atmospheric air may be supplemented with oxygen.

[112] Air circuit: A conduit or tube constructed and arranged in use to deliver a supply of air or breathable gas between components such as a RPT device or humidifier and a patient interface. In particular, the air circuit may be in fluid connection with the outlet of the pneumatic block and the patient interface. The air circuit may be referred to as air delivery tube. In some cases there may be separate limbs of the circuit for inhalation and exhalation. In other cases a single limb is used.

[113] Blower or flow generator. A device that delivers a flow of air at a pressure above ambient pressure.

5.6 OTHER REMARKS

[114] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material which is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.

[115] Unless the context clearly dictates otherwise and where a range of values is provided, it is understood that each intervening value, to the tenth of the unit of the lower limit, between the upper and lower limit of that range, and any other stated or intervening value in that stated range is encompassed within the technology. The upper and lower limits of these intervening ranges, which may be independently included in the intervening ranges, are also encompassed within the technology, subject to any specifically excluded limit in the stated range. Where the stated range includes one or both of the limits, ranges excluding either or both of those included limits are also included in the technology.

[1 16] Furthermore, where a value or values are stated herein as being implemented as part of the technology, it is understood that such values may be approximated, unless otherwise slated, and such values may be utilized to any suitable significant digit to the extent that a practical technical implementation may permit or require it.

[117] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this technology belongs. Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can also be used in the practice or testing of the present technology, a limited number of the exemplary methods and materials are described herein.

[1 18] When a particular material is identified as being preferably used to construct a component, obvious alternative materials with similar properties may be used as a substitute. Furthermore, unless specified to the contrary, any and all components herein described are understood to be capable of being manufactured and, as such, may be manufactured together or separately.

[ 1 19] It must be noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include their plural equivalents, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[120] All publications mentioned herein are incorporated by reference to disclose and describe the methods and/or materials which are the subject of those publications. The publications discussed herein are provided solely for their disclosure prior to the filing date of the present application. Nothing herein is to be construed as an admission that the present technology is not entitled to antedate such publication by virtue of prior invention. Further, the dates of publication provided may be different from the actual publication dates, which may need to be independently confirmed.

[121] Moreover, in interpreting the disclosure, all terms should be interpreted in the broadest reasonable manner consistent with the context. In particular, the terms "comprises" and "comprising" should he interpreted as referring to elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced elements, components, or steps may be present, or utilized, or combined with other elements, components, or steps that are not expressly referenced.

[122] The subject headings used in the detailed description are included only for the ease of reference of the reader and should not be used to limit the subject matter found throughout the disclosure or the claims. The subject headings should not be used in construing the scope of the claims or the claim limitations.

[123] Although the technology herein has been described with reference to particular embodiments, it is to be understood that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles and applications of the technology. In some instances, the terminology and symbols may imply specific details that are not required to practice the technology. For example, although the terms "first" and "second" may be used, unless otherwise specified, they are not intended to indicate any order but may be utilised to distinguish between distinct elements. Furthermore, although process steps in the methodologies may be described or illustrated in an order, such an ordering is not required. Those skilled in the art will recognize that such ordering may be modified and/or aspects thereof may be conducted concurrently or even synchronously.

[124] It is therefore to be understood that numerous modifications may be made to the illustrative embodiments and that other arrangements may be devised without departing from the spirit and scope of the technology.

5.7 REFERENCE SIGNS LIST

[125] 1000 patient

[ 126] 3000 patient interface

[127] 4000 RPT device

[128] 4170 air delivery tube

[129] 5000 humidifier

[130] 5100 humidifier base, humidification module [131] 5120 heating plate

[132] 5150a, 5150b, 5150c equipment interfaces

[133] 5152 electrical interfaces

[134] 5156 optical interface

[135] 5160 receiving section

[136] 165 lateral guiding wall portions

[137] 5200 water reservoir, humidifying chamber, container

[138] 5210 chamber top

[139] 5212 gas inlet

[140] 5214 gas outlet

[141] 5215 chamber mechanical guide

[142] 5216 chamber clamping surface/chamber flange/chamber shoulder

[ 143] 5216-1 chamber rim portion

[144] 5216- 1 a chamber retaining surface

[145] 5216-2 chamber recess portion

[146] 5217 probe connector

[147] 5218 Luer connector

[148] 5219 protrusion

[149] 5220 tub base

[150] 5222 bottom portion

[151] 5224 side portion 152] 5226 base clamping surface/base flange/base shoulder 153] 5226-1 base rim or bead portion

154] 5226- la base retaining surface

155] 5227 radius of transition

156] 5228 groove or cut out

157] 5230 bayonet coupling

158] 5232 protruding element

159] 5234-1 chamber receiving portion

160] 5234-2 chamber retaining portion/chamber clamping section 161] 5234-3 section of increasing flange thickness

162] 5240 base mechanical guide

163] 5240-1 inclined upper surface

164] 5242-1 base receiving portion

165] 5242-2 base retaining portion/base clamping section 166] 5244 base recess

167] 5244-1 recess receiving portion

168] 5244-2 recess undercut portion

169] 5250 releasable clip

170] 5250-1 interior side

171] 5252 first protrusion

172] 5252-1 first laterally protrudin end, retaining portion [173] 5252-la first clamping surface

[174] 5252- lb first retaining surface

[175] 5254 second protrusion

[176] 5254-1 second laterally protruding end, retaining portion

[177] 5254- la second clamping surface

[178] 5254- l b second retaining surface

[ 179] 5255 grip

[180] 5256 first rim

[181] 5256- 1 rim recess

[182] 5258 second rim

[183] 5260 seal

[184] a distance between first and second flanges 5216, 5226

[ 185] C circumferential/ peripheral direction

[186] Dl first direction, radial direction

[187] D2 second direction, circumferential direction

[188] D3 generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the assembled container

[ 189] Ml position marker

[190] PI first interlocking/engaging position

[191] P2 second interlocking/engaging position

[192] R radial direction

[193] a angle 6 (J) CITATIONS

6.1 PATENT LITERATURE [194] WO2012/065999 Al

[195] EP 1 558 877 Al

Claims

7 (K) CLAIMS

1. Humidifying chamber (5200) for humidifying breathable gas, comprising:

a chamber top (5210);

a tub base (5220); and

at least one releasable clip (5250) for clamping chamber top (5210) and tub base (5220) to form an assembled container adapted to hold a supply of liquid, wherein the releasable clip (5250) clamps the chamber top (5210) and the tub base (5220) along a portion of their perimeter.

2. Chamber (5200) according to claim 1, wherein the releasable clip (5250) embraces a portion of the chamber top (5210) and a portion of the tub base (5220).

3. Chamber (5200) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the chamber top (5210) comprises a chamber clamping surface and the tub base (5220) comprises a base clamping surface, wherein the clip (5250) is adapted for clamping the chamber and base clamping surfaces.

4. Chamber (5200) according to claim 1 or claim 2 or claim 3, wherein tlie chamber top (5210) and the tub base (5220) are adapted to be positioned relative to one another to allow the clip (5250) to be positioned in a first engaging position, from which the clip (5250) is moveable into a second engaging position.

5. Chamber (5200) according to claim 4, wherein the first engaging position is a non-interlocking first position (PI), and wherein the second engaging position is an interlocking second position (P2).

6. Chamber (5200) according to claims 4 or claim 5, wherein the first engaging position is a defined position.

7. Chamber (5200) according to any one of claims 3 to 6, wherein the chamber clamping surface is provided by a chamber flange (5216) or chamber recess and the base clamping surface is provided by a base flange (5226) or base recess, wherein the chamber flange and the base flange arc configured to protrude from the perimeter of the chamber top and tub base, respectively, or wherein the chamber recess and base recess are configured to be recessed from the perimeter of the chamber top and tub base.

8. Chamber (5200) according to claim 7, wherein the chamber flange (5216) is a chamber shoulder and the base flange (5226) is a base shoulder.

9. Chamber (5200) according to any one of claims 3 to 8, wherein the chamber clamping surface extends along a part of the perimeter of the chamber top (5210) and the base clamping surface extends along a part of the perimeter of the tub base (5220).

10. Chamber (5200) according to any one of claims 3 to 9, wherein at least one of the clip (5250), the chamber clamping surface (5216) and the base clamping surface (5226), are adapted to allow the clip (5250) to move along the chamber clamping surface (5216 ) or the base clamping surface (5226).

1 1 . Chamber (5200) according to claim 10, wherein the movement of the clip is substantially parallel to at least a portion of at least one of the chamber clamping surface (5216) andthe base clamping surface (5226).

12. Chamber (5200) according to claim 11, wherein the movement is a unidirectional movement along a curved line.

13. Chamber (5200) according to one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the clip (5250) has a longitudinal shape.

14. Chamber (5200) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the clip (5250) has an arch-shape.

15. Chamber (5200) according to claim 14 when dependent upon claims 10 to 13, wherein the arch-shape includes a circle-segment shape, with a curvature, said curvature generally corresponding to the curvature of the movement from the first engaging position to the second engaging position.

16. Chamber (5200) according to claim 15, wherein the arch shape curvature generally corresponds to the curvature of at least one of the chamber clamping surface (5216) and base clamping surface (5226).

17. Chamber (5200) according to one of claims 3 to 16, wherein the clip (5250) comprises first and second clip clamping surfaces configured to exert a clampin force on the chamber clamping surface of the chamber top (5210) and the base clamping surface of the tub base (5220).

18. Chamber (5200) according to claim 17, wherein the first and second clip clamping surfaces are formed on opposing sides of the clip (5250) and face towards each other.

19. Chamber (5200) according to claim ! 7 or claim 18, wherein the first and second clip clamping surfaces face in opposing directions away from one another.

20. Chamber (5200) according to any one of claims 17 to 19. wherein the chamber clamping surface of the chamber top and the base clamping surface of the tub base and the clip clamping surfaces extend substantially parallel to one another.

21 . Chamber (5200) according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the clip has a substantially C-shaped or U-shaped cross-sectional portion.

22. Chamber (5200) according to claim 21 when dependent upon any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein said C-shaped or U-shaped cross-sectional portion includes the first and second clip clamping surfaces.

23. Chamber (5200) according to any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein the clip (5250) comprises an interior side (5250-1 ) and at least one first protrusion (5252) that protrudes from said interior side (5250-1), the first protrusion (5252) provides a first clip clamping surface (5252- la) being adapted to engage one of the chamber clamping surface (5216) and the base clamping surface (5226) of the chamber top (5210) and tub base (5220), respectively.

24. Chamber (5200) according to claim 23, wherein at least one second protrusion (5254) protrudes from said interior side (5250-1), the second protrusion (5254) provides a second clip clamping surface (5254- la) being adapted to engage the chamber clamping surface (5216) and the base clamping surface (5226) of the chamber top (5210) and the tub base (5220).

25. Chamber (5200) according to claim 24, wherein the first and second protrusions (5252, 5254) form a portion with a C-shaped or hook-shaped cross-sectional shape.

26. Chamber (5200) according to any one of claims 7 to 25, wherein the clip (5250) and the chamber flange (5216) and base flange (5226) provide a bayonet coupling (30).

27. Chamber (5200) according to any one of claims 1 to 26. wherein the clip (5250) and the top chamber and the tub base, comprise corresponding retaining surfaces (5252- lb, 5254- lb, 5216- l a, 5226-1 a) for holding the clip on the assembled container.

28. Chamber (5200) according to claim 27, wherein the retaining surfaces (5252- l b, 5254- l b, 5216- l a. 5226- l a) are provided by corresponding undercut portions.

29. Chamber (5200) according to claim 27 or 28, wherein the corresponding retaining surfaces (5252- l b, 5254- lb, 5216-la, 5226- la) have a contacting or mating direction which is in a substantially radial direction (R).

30. Chamber (5200) according to any one of claims 27-29, wherein the clip clamping surfaces and the chamber clamping surface and the base clamping surface are angled in a dove-tail manner so that the clip clamping surfaces and the chamber clamping surface and the base clamping surface also form the retaining surfaces.

31 . Chamber (5200) according to any one of claims 27 to 30, wherein the clip comprises a retaining portion includin a protrusion (5252-1, 5254-1), which comprises the retaining surface (5252- l b, 5254- l b), said protrusion extending from at least one of the first and second clip clamping surfaces, preferably at a distance from an interior side (5250-1) of the clip.

32. Chamber (5200) according to any one of claims 27 to 31, wherein the chamber top comprises a retaining portion including a protrusion, which comprises the retaining surface (5216- la), said protrusion extending from the chamber clamping surface.

33. Chamber (5200) according to any one of claims 27 to 32, wherein the tub base comprises a retaining portion including a protrusion, which comprises the retainin surface (5226- la), said protrusion extending from the base clamping surface.

34. Chamber (5200) according to any one of claims 27 to 33 when dependent upon any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the clip's retaining portion is adapted to engage with the chamber top retaining portion and the tub base retaining portion, the retainin portions allowing an interlocking engagement, particularly restricting movement in a radial direction, in the second engaging position.

35. Chamber (5200) according to any one of claims 27 to 34. wherein at least one of the clip retaining portion, the chamber top retaining portion or the tub base retaining portion are provided at a distinct position not extending along a whole extension of the corresponding clamping surface.

36. Chamber (5200) according to any one of claims 27 to 35 when dependent upon any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein at least one of the clip retaining portion, the chamber top retaining portion and the tub base retaining portion are provided such that one engaging position is defined into which the clip may be radially moved and from which it may be, tangentially or circumferentially. moved into the second engaging position, preferably in which the corresponding retaining members are aligned with one another, thereby restricting movement in a radial direction and wherein the chamber top and the tub base are clamped.

37. Chamber (5200) according to any one of claims 7 to 36, wherein at least one of the chamber flange (5216) and the base flange ( 5226) comprise at least one receiving portion (5234-1, 5242- 1 ). the receiving portion(s) (5234- 1 , 5242- 1 ) being adapted to receive a C-shaped or hook-shaped portion of the clip (5250).

38. Chamber (5200) according to claim 37, wherein the C-shaped or hook-shaped cross-sectional shape of the clip is adapted to interlock with at least one retaining portion (5234-2, 5242-2) of the chamber top (5210) or the tub base (5220), preferably upon movement in a circumferential direction.

39. Chamber according to claim 38, wherein the at least one retaining portion is configured as an undercut.

40. Chamber (5200) according to any one of claims 6 to 39. wherein at least one of the chamber clamping surface and the base clamping surface comprise a section of increasing thickness (5234-3), and wherein the clip (5250) is adapted to move along the section of increasing thickness (5234-3) when being moved from the first engaging position into the second engaging position.

41. Chamber (5200) according to claim 40, wherein the clip (5250) and the assembled container are arranged and configured such that a contact pressure between the clip (5250) and assembled container preferably gradually, increases as the clip (5250) is moved along the section of increasing thickness (5234-3).

42. Chamber (5200) according to claim 40or claim 41, wherein clip clamping surfaces are arranged at a distance to each other being shorter than the thickness of the distance between respective chamber clamping surface and the base clamping surface in an undamped position when still to be clamped between the first and second clip clampin surfaces.

43. Chamber (5200) according to claim 42, wherein the difference between the distance of the first and second clip clamping surfaces to the respective distance between the chamber clamping surface and the base clamping surface clamped therebetween decreases as the clip (5250) advances on the section of increasing thickness (5234-3).

44. Chamber (5200) according to any one of claims 40 to 43 when dependent upon claim 5, wherein the section of increasing thickness (5234-3) is located between the non-interlocking first position (PI) and the interlocking second position (P2).

45. Chamber (5200) according to any one of claims 40 to 44, wherein the section of increasing thickness (5234-3) is located in the chamber retaining portion (5234- 2).

46. Chamber (5200) according to any one of claims 23 to 45, wherein the first protrusion (5252) comprises at a free end a first laterally protruding end (5252- 1), the first laterally protruding end (5252- 1 ) protruding towards the engaged chamber flange (5216) or base flange (5226) in the assembled container, the first laterally protruding end (5252-1) being adapted to interlock with the chamber retaining portion (5234-2).

47. Chamber (5200) according to claim 46, wherein the second protrusion (5254) comprises at a free end a second laterally protruding end (5254-1), the second laterally protruding end (5254-1) protruding towards the other engaged chamber flange (5216) or base flange (5226) in the assembled container, the second laterally protruding end (5254-1) being adapted to interlock with a second undercut portion (5234-2, 5242-2) of the chamber top (5210) or tub base (5220).

48. Chamber (5200) according to any one of claims 1 to 47, wherein the clip (5250) comprises a first rim (5256), the first rim (5256) extending from an inner surface (5250-1) and covering at least a portion of the chamber flange (5216) or the base flange (5226).

49. Chamber (5200) according to claim 48, wherein the clip (5230) comprises a second rim (5258), the second rim (5258) extending from the inner surface (5250-1) and covering at least a portion of the other of the chamber flange (5216) or the base flange (5226).

50. Chamber (5200) according to any one of claims 7 to 49, wherein at least one of the chamber top (5210) and tub base (5220) comprises at least one rim portion (5216- 1 , 5226-1) protruding from the chamber flange (5216) or base flange ( 5226 ).

51 . Chamber (5200) according to claim 50, wherein the receiving portion (5234-1) is configured as a recessed portion (5234-1) in the at least one rim portion (5216- 1 , 5226-1 ).

52. Chamber (5200) according to claim 51 , wherein a section of the at least one rim portion (5216- 1. 5226-1) located adjacent the recessed portion (5234-1) defines the at least one retaining portion (5234-2).

53. Chamber (5200), according to any one of claims 1 to 51 , wherein at least the chamber top (5210) and the tub base (5220) are connected by at least one bayonet coupling (5230).

54. Chamber (5200) according to claim 52. wherein the bayonet coupling (5230) comprises a protruding element (5232), a receiving portion (5244-1) and an undercut portion (5244-2), the bayonet coupling (5230) being adapted and arranged - to introduce the protruding element (5232) into the receiving portion (5244-1) by a relative movement of the protruding element (5232) and the receiving portion (5244-1) substantially in a first direction (Dl) and

- to lock the relative movement in the first direction (Dl ) by a relative movement of the protruding element (5232) and the undercut portion (5244-2 ) substantially in a second direction (D2) transversely to the first direction (Dl).

55. Chamber (5200) according to claim 54, wherein the first and second directions (Dl . D2) form an angle (a) of about 60° to 120°, preferably of about 80° to 100°, more preferably of about 85° to 95°, and most preferably of about 90°.

56. Chamber (5200) according to any one of claim 53. claim 54 or claim 55 when dependent upon claim 39, wherei the bayonet coupling (5230) comprises the C-shaped or hook shaped portion, the receiving portion (5234-1), and the undercut portion (5244-2).

57. Chamber (5200) according to claim 56, wherein the C-shaped or hook shaped portion is the protruding element (5232) of the bayonet coupling.

58. Chamber (5200) according to claim 56 or claim 57, wherein the receiving portion (5244-1) and the undercut portion (5244-2) together constitute a substantially L-shaped path.

59. Chamber (5200) according to claim 56 or claim 57, wherein the receiving portion (5244-1) and the undercut portion (5244-2) are configured as a recess (5244), preferably a substantially L-shaped recess (5244).

60. Chamber (5200) according to claim 59, wherein the protruding element (5232) is located at the chamber top (5210) or the tub base (5220), and wherein the recess (5244) is located at the other of the chamber top (5210) or the tub base (5220).

61 . Chamber (5200) according to any one of claims 50 to 52 and claims 53 to 60 when dependent upon any one of claims 50 to 52, wherein the rim portion (5216- 1. 5226-1) is configured as a bead portion (5226-2). preferably formed by plastic deformation, preferably for also guiding the clip when moving from the first engaging position into the second engaging position.

62. Chamber (5200) according to claim 61 , wherein the clip encompasses in an assembled position the bead portion (5226-2) thereby clamping at least portions of the chamber top (5210) and tub base (5220).

63. Chamber (5200) according to any one of claims 1 to 60, wherein the chamber top (5210) is made of a resin material, preferably transparent or translucent resin material.

64. Chamber (5200) according to any one of claims 1 to 61 , wherein at least 50%, preferably at least 70%, more preferably more than 80%, and most preferably at least 90% of the volume of the humidifying chamber are provided by the chamber top (5210).

65. Chamber (5200) according to any one of claims 1 to 64, wherein, in a filled state of the assembled container when it holds a supply of liquid, the level of liquid extends to above the tub base and is also held by the chamber top.

66. Chamber (5200) according to any one of claims 1 to 65, wherein the chamber top (5210) is adapted to be connected to a path of breathing gas to be humidified, by a least one gas inlet (5212) and at least one gas outlet (5214), the gas outlet is adapted to connect to a breathing gas tube.

67. Chamber (5200) according to any one of claims 1 to 66, wherein the chamber top (5210) comprises a probe connector (5217) adapted to receive a plug-in probe, the probe connector configured as a closable opening.

68. Chamber (5200) according to any one of claims 1 to 67. wherein the chamber top (5210) comprises a Luer connector (5218).

69. Chamber (5200) according to any one of claims 1 to 68, wherein the tub base (5220) is made of a heat conductive material, preferably metal.

70. Chamber (5200) according to any one of claims 1 to 69. wherein the tub base (5220) comprises a (substantially flat) bottom portion (5222) and a side portion (5224) extending from the bottom portion (5224).

71 . Chamber (5200) according to any one of claims 1 to 70, wherein the tub base (5220) comprises at least one groove or cut out (5228), and

wherein the chamber top (5210) comprises at least one protrusion (5219) adapted to engage with the at least one groove or cut out (5228).

72. Chamber (5200) according to any one of claims 1 to 71 , further comprising a seal (5260), adapted to be positioned between the chamber top (5210) and tub base (5220).

73. Chamber (5200) according to any one of claims 1 to 72, wherein at least one of the chamber top (5210) and the tub base (5220) comprise a mechanical guide (s) (5215. 5240) adapted to guide the assembled container within the humidifier (5000).

74. Chamber (5200) according to claim 73, wherein at least one of the mechanical guides (5240) is configured as a laterally extending wing portion adapted to be inserted into a receiving section (5160) of a humidifier base (5100).

75. Humidifier, adapted to receive a chamber (5200) according to any one of claims 1 to 74.

76. The humidifier according to claim 75, wherein the chamber (5200), is enclosed by the humidifier such that the clip may not be slid to the non-interlocking first position.

77. The humidifier according to claim 75 or claim 76, wherein the humidifier comprises at least one receiving section (5160) adapted to receive a mechanical guides (5240) on the humidifying chamber.

78. The humidifier according to one of claims 75 to 77, wherein the humidifier comprises at least one lateral guiding wall portion(s) (5165) along which at least one mechanical guide (5240) is guided upon insertion of the chamber (5200).