Interface apparatus identification system and method and differentiating feature therefor

An interface apparatus identification method comprising steps of:

• (a) providing a patient interface assembly, the patient interface assembly comprising:
• (1) a patient interface apparatus adapted to deliver a flow of gas to an airway of a patient, the patient interface apparatus being selected from a predetermined category,
• (2) a detection element adapted to communicate with a respiration machine, the detection element comprising a photo eye adapted to detect fluorescence, and
• (3) a differentiating feature incorporated into the patient interface assembly, the differentiating feature being a material property of at least one component of the patient interface assembly, the material property being a fluorescence of a predetermined color triggered by exposure to light;
• (b) coupling the patient interface assembly to the respiration machine;
• (c) exposing the at least one component to light having a preselected wavelength;
• (d) responsive to said exposure, detecting with the photo eye the presence or absence of a fluorescence of a predetermined color, the patient interface assembly falling within the predetermined category if the fluorescence is present, the predetermined color being fixed with respect to the preselected wavelength,
• (1) if approving the patient interface apparatus for operation with the respiration machine,
• (2) if absent, prohibiting operation of the respiration machine absent a predetermined user input.