Apparatus for equalizing air pressure in an air respiratory system

Abstract

A humidifier apparatus for operating at an air pressure is disclosed for use with a respiratory therapy breathing apparatus that provides a breathable gas supply to patients requiring higher concentrations of liquid vapor and gas pressure. The humidifier apparatus includes a feed liquid supply bag in fluid communication with a humidifier cartridge via a conduit. The conduit enables air to flow therethrough to equalize air pressure between the humidifier cartridge and the feed liquid supply bag in response to liquid being supplied to the humidifier cartridge.

1 .- 16 . (canceled)  
   
   
       17 . A liquid supply bag having a liquid level and configured for use with a humidifier apparatus comprising: 
 at least one sidewall defining a top portion and a lower end forming a closed container for a supply of liquid;    a hanging eyelet connected to said top portion;    a liquid delivery outlet located at said lower end;    an air inlet in said at least one sidewall and located above the liquid level; and an air return line connectable to said top portion via said air inlet.    
   
   
       18 . The bag of  claim 17 , further comprising a pair of piercing pins having extending members and configured for separately connecting said air return line and said liquid feed line to said at least one sidewall.  
   
   
       19 . The bag of  claim 18 , further comprising a pair of securing sleeves having shoulders for surrounding said extending members of said piercing pins to facilitate engagement of said extending members with said feed liquid supply bag.  
   
   
       20 . The bag of  claim 17 , wherein said hanging eyelet and at least one sidewall are formed as a single unit.  
   
   
       21 .- 44 . (canceled)