Breathing assistance apparatus

Abstract

A CPAP system for supplying humidified gases to a user. Various interfaces are described for delivering the gases. A mask cushion including a deformable cushion and a thin sheath is described. A forehead rest with a horizontal pivot is attached to the mask. An outlet vent to reduce the noise from exhausted carbon dioxide is described. A mouthpiece is also described with an outlet diffuser including Heat Moisture Exchanger Material.

The invention claimed is:  
     
         1 . A mouthpiece for delivering a supply of gases to a user from a breathing assistance apparatus comprising: 
 engagement means adapted to in use juxtapose said mouthpiece in or about the oral cavity of a user and substantially seal thereabouts,    a conduit adapted to fluidically communicate a breathing assistance apparatus with the oral cavity of a user, and    diffusing means adapted to be in fluid communication with said conduit and located substantially within, and delivering said supply of gases in a substantially diffused manner to, the oral cavity of a user.    
     
     
         2 . A mouthpiece for delivering a supply of gases to a user as claimed in  claim 1  wherein said conduit includes an inlet, in use fluid communication with said supply of gases, and an outlet in fluid communication with said inlet, said diffusing means including a diffusing material engaged over said outlet in use through which said gases pass and are thereby discharged in a diffused manner.  
     
     
         3 . A mouthpiece for delivering a supply of gases to a user as claimed in  claim 2  wherein said diffusing material comprises a portion of porous material in use through which said gases pass.  
     
     
         4 . A mouthpiece for delivering a supply of gases to a user as claimed in  claim 3  wherein said porous material is material chosen from those known to have heat and moisture exchanging properties.  
     
     
         5 . A mouthpiece for delivering a supply of gases to a user as claimed in  claim 4  wherein said material substantially allows moisture to pass inwardly from said conduit to, but prevents egress outwardly from, the oral cavity of a user.