Removing condensation from a breathing circuit

A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

• a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume;
• a base unit configured to support the humidification component;
• a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation;
• and
• at least one groove disposed on a heater wire of said device, said heater wire being positioned in a respiratory gas conduit.

A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

• a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume;
• and
• a base unit configured to support the humidification component;
• a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation;
• wherein said humidification component is comprised entirely of a non-metallic material, a portion of said non-metallic material configured for conducting heat transmitting electromagnetic radiation to said water volume, said electromagnetic radiation directed within the humidification component by a portion of said non-metallic material that is reflective to electromagnetic radiation.

A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

• a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume and for adding water vapor to a gas that is to be provided to a patient to support breathing;
• a base unit configured to support the humidification component;
• a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation;
• and
• a humidification component controller coupled with said humidification component and configured for receiving humidification target value information, said humidification component controller comprising:
• a humidification target value determiner configured for determining, based on said received humidification target value information, at least two possible humidification target values, at least one humidification target value identifying a humidification level setting corresponding to said patient.

A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

• a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume;
• a base unit configured to support the humidification component;
• a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation;
• a respiratory gas conduit comprising an input end and an output end, said respiratory gas conduit configured for receiving a gas at said input end and configured to transport said gas to said output end;
• a heater wire disposed inside said respiratory gas conduit, said heater wire comprising:
• a sheathing;
• and
• at least one groove disposed on said sheathing, said at least one groove configured for wicking up water from a region of condensation within said respiratory gas conduit and transporting wicked up water to a re-evaporation region.

A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

• a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume and for adding water vapor to a gas to be provided to a patient to support breathing;
• a base unit configured to support the humidification component;
• a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic;
• a gas delivery device coupled with said humidification component, said gas delivery device configured for controlling a delivery of said gas to said humidification component;
• and
• a communication module coupled with said gas delivery device and said humidification component, said communication module configured for communicating humidification target value information between said humidification component and said gas delivery device, said humidification component and said gas delivery device configured for determining, based on said humidification target value information, target operational information of a system associated with said patient, wherein said system comprises said device.

A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

• a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume;
• a base unit configured to support the humidification component;
• a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation;
• at least one sensor positioned external to a humidification component and coupled with a control module, said at least one sensor configured for sensing water related information in said humidification component and providing said water related information to said control module, said water related information comprising data configured for being used to control an operation of a water level control element;
• and
• at least one groove disposed on a heater wire of said device, said heater wire being positioned in a respiratory gas conduit.

A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

• a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume;
• a base unit configured to support the humidification component;
• a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation;
• and
• at least one sensor positioned external to said humidification component and coupled with a control module, said at least one sensor configured for sensing water related information in said humidification component and providing said water related information to said control module, said water related information comprising data configured for being used to control an operation of a water level control element, wherein said humidification component is comprised entirely of a non-metallic material, said non-metallic material configured for conducting heat transmitting electromagnetic radiation to said water volume, said heat being received from a heating element.

A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

• a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume and for adding water vapor to a gas to be provided to a patient to support breathing;
• a base unit configured to support the humidification component;
• a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation;
• at least one sensor positioned external to said humidification component and coupled with a control module, said at least one sensor configured for sensing water related information in said humidification component and providing said water related information to said control module, said water related information comprising data configured for being used to control an operation of a water level control element;
• and
• a humidification component controller coupled with said humidification component and configured for receiving said humidification target value information, said humidification component controller comprising:
• a humidification target value determiner configured for determining, based on received humidification target value information, a humidification target value of at least two possible humidification target values, said humidification target value identifying a humidification level setting corresponding to said patient.

A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

• a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume;
• a base unit configured to support the humidification component;
• a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation;
• at least one sensor positioned external to said humidification component and coupled with a control module, said at least one sensor configured for sensing water related information in said humidification component and providing said water related information to said control module, said water related information comprising data configured for being used to control an operation of a water level control element;
• a respiratory gas conduit comprising an input end and an output end, said respiratory gas conduit configured for receiving gas at said input end and configured to transport said gas to said output end;
• and
• a heater wire disposed inside said respiratory gas conduit, said heater wire comprising:
• a sheathing;
• and
• at least one groove disposed on said sheathing, said at least one groove configured for wicking up water from a region of condensation within said respiratory gas conduit and transporting wicked up water to a re-evaporation region.

A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

• a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume and for adding water vapor to a gas to be provided to a patient to support breathing;
• a base unit configured to support the humidification component;
• a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation;
• at least one sensor positioned external to a humidification component and coupled with a control module, said at least one sensor configured for sensing water related information in said humidification component and providing said water related information to said control module, said water related information comprising data configured for being used to control an operation of a water level control element;
• a gas delivery device coupled with said humidification component, said gas delivery device configured for controlling a delivery of said gas to said humidification component;
• and
• a communication module coupled with said gas delivery device and said humidification component, said communication module configured for communicating humidification target value information between said humidification component and said gas delivery device, said humidification component and said gas delivery device configured for determining, based on said humidification target value information, target operational information of a system associated with said patient, wherein said system comprises said device.

A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

• a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume;
• a base unit configured to support the humidification component;
• a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation;
• and
• at least one groove disposed on a heater wire of said device, said heater wire being positioned in a respiratory gas conduit, wherein said humidification component is comprised entirely of a non-metallic material, said non-metallic material configured for transmitting electromagnetic radiation to said water volume, said heat being received from a heating element.

A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

• a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume and for adding water vapor to a gas to be provided to a patient to support breathing;
• a base unit configured to support the humidification component;
• a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation;
• at least one groove disposed on a heater wire of said device, said heater wire being positioned in a respiratory gas conduit;
• and
• a humidification component controller coupled with said humidification component and configured for receiving said humidification target value information, said humidification component controller comprising:
• a humidification target value determiner configured for determining, based on received humidification target value information, a humidification target value of at least two possible humidification target values, said humidification target value identifying a humidification level setting corresponding to said patient.

A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

• a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume;
• a base unit configured to support the humidification component;
• a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation;
• at least one groove disposed on a heater wire of said device, said heater wire being positioned in a respiratory gas conduit;
• said respiratory gas conduit comprising an input end and an output end, said respiratory gas conduit configured for receiving gas at said input end and configured to transport said gas to said output end;
• and
• said heater wire comprising:
• a sheathing;
• and
• at least one groove disposed on said sheathing, said at least one groove configured for wicking up water from a region of condensation within said respiratory gas conduit and transporting wicked up water to a re-evaporation region.

A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

• a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume and for adding water vapor to a gas to be provided to a patient to support breathing;
• a base unit configured to support the humidification component;
• a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation;
• at least one groove disposed on a heater wire of said device, said heater wire being positioned in a respiratory gas conduit;
• a gas delivery device coupled with said humidification component, said gas delivery device configured for controlling a delivery of said gas to said humidification component;
• and
• a communication module coupled with said gas delivery device and said humidification component, said communication module configured for communicating humidification target value information between said humidification component and said gas delivery device, said humidification component and said gas delivery device configured for determining, based on said humidification target value information, target operational information of a system associated with said patient, wherein said system comprises said device.

A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

• a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume and for adding water vapor to a gas to be provided to a patient to support breathing;
• a base unit configured to support the humidification component;
• a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation, wherein said humidification component is comprised entirely of a non-metallic material, said non-metallic material configured for transmitting electromagnetic radiation to said water volume, said heat being received from a heating element;
• and
• a humidification component controller coupled with said humidification component and configured for receiving said humidification target value information, said humidification component controller comprising:
• a humidification target value determiner configured for determining, based on received humidification target value information, a humidification target value of at least two possible humidification target values, said humidification target value identifying a humidification level setting corresponding to said patient.

A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

• a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume;
• a base unit configured to support the humidification component;
• a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation, wherein said humidification component is comprised entirely of a non-metallic material, said non-metallic material configured for transmitting electromagnetic radiation to said water volume, said heat being received from a heating element;
• a respiratory gas conduit comprising an input end and an output end, said respiratory gas conduit configured for receiving gas at said input end and configured to transport said gas to said output end;
• and
• a heater wire disposed inside said respiratory gas conduit, said heater wire comprising:
• a sheathing;
• and
• at least one groove disposed on said sheathing, said at least one groove configured for wicking up water from a region of condensation within said respiratory gas conduit and transporting wicked up water to a re-evaporation region.

A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

• a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume and for adding water vapor to a gas to be provided to a patient to support breathing;
• a base unit configured to support the humidification component;
• a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation, wherein said humidification component is comprised entirely of a non-metallic material, said non-metallic material configured for conducting heat transmitting electromagnetic radiation to said water volume, said heat being received from a heating element;
• a gas delivery device coupled with said humidification component, said gas delivery device configured for controlling a delivery of said gas to said humidification component;
• and
• a communication module coupled with said gas delivery device and said humidification component, said communication module configured for communicating humidification target value information between said humidification component and said gas delivery device, said humidification component and said gas delivery device configured for determining, based on said humidification target value information, target operational information of a system associated with said patient, wherein said system comprises said device.

A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

• a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume and adding water vapor to a gas to be provided to a patient to support breathing;
• a base unit configured to support the humidification component;
• a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation;
• a respiratory gas conduit comprising an input end and an output end, said respiratory gas conduit configured for receiving gas at said input end and configured to transport said gas to said output end;
• a heater wire disposed inside said respiratory gas conduit, said heater wire comprising:
• a sheathing;
• and
• at least one groove disposed on said sheathing, said at least one groove configured for wicking up water from a region of condensation within said respiratory gas conduit and transporting wicked up water to a re-evaporation region;
• and
• a humidification component controller coupled with said humidification component and configured for receiving said humidification target value information, said humidification component controller comprising:
• a humidification target value determiner configured for determining, based on received humidification target value information, a humidification target value of at least two possible humidification target values, said humidification target value identifying a humidification level setting corresponding to said patient.

A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

• a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume and for adding water vapor to a gas to be provided to a patient to support breathing;
• a base unit configured to support the humidification component;
• a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation;
• a respiratory gas conduit comprising an input end and an output end, said respiratory gas conduit configured for receiving gas at said input end and configured to transport said gas to said output end;
• a heater wire disposed inside said respiratory gas conduit, said heater wire comprising:
• a sheathing;
• and
• at least one groove disposed on said sheathing, said at least one groove configured for wicking up water from a region of condensation within said respiratory gas conduit and transporting wicked up water to a re-evaporation region;
• a gas delivery device coupled with said humidification component, said gas delivery device configured for controlling a delivery of said gas to said humidification component;
• and
• a communication module coupled with said gas delivery device and said humidification component, said communication module configured for communicating humidification target value information between said humidification component and said gas delivery device, said humidification component and said gas delivery device configured for determining, based on said humidification target value information, target operational information of a system associated with said patient, wherein said system comprises said device.

A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

• a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume;
• a base unit configured to support the humidification component;
• a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation;
• at least one sensor positioned external to a humidification component and coupled with a control module, said at least one sensor configured for sensing water related information in said humidification component and providing said water related information to said control module, said water related information comprising data configured for being used to control an operation of a water level control element;
• and
• at least one groove disposed on a heater wire of said device, said heater wire being positioned in a respiratory gas conduit, wherein said humidification component is comprised entirely of a non-metallic material, said non-metallic material configured for transmitting electromagnetic radiation to said water volume, said heat being received from a heating element.

A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

• a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume and for adding water vapor to a gas to be provided to a patient to support breathing;
• a base unit configured to support the humidification component;
• a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation;
• at least one sensor positioned external to a humidification component and coupled with a control module, said at least one sensor configured for sensing water related information in said humidification component and providing said water related information to said control module, said water related information comprising data configured for being used to control an operation of a water level control element;
• at least one groove disposed on a heater wire of said device, said heater wire being positioned in a respiratory gas conduit;
• and
• a humidification component controller coupled with said humidification component and configured for receiving said humidification target value information, said humidification component controller comprising:
• a humidification target value determiner configured for determining, based on received humidification target value information, a humidification target value of at least two possible humidification target values, said humidification target value identifying a humidification level setting corresponding to said patient.

A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

• a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume and for adding water vapor to a gas to be provided to a patient to support breathing;
• a base unit configured to support the humidification component;
• a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation;
• at least one sensor positioned external to a humidification component and coupled with a control module, said at least one sensor configured for sensing water related information in said humidification component and providing said water related information to said control module, said water related information comprising data configured for being used to control an operation of a water level control element;
• at least one groove disposed on a heater wire of said device, said heater wire being positioned in a respiratory gas conduit coupled with said humidification component;
• a gas delivery device coupled with said humidification component, said gas delivery device configured for controlling a delivery of said gas to said humidification component;
• and
• a communication module coupled with said gas delivery device and said humidification component, said communication module configured for communicating humidification target value information between said humidification component and said gas delivery device, said humidification component and said gas delivery device configured for determining, based on said humidification target value information, target operational information of a system associated with said patient, wherein said system comprises said device.

A device for humidifying respiratory gases, said device comprising:

• a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume and for adding water vapor to a gas to be provided to a patient to support breathing;
• a base unit configured to support the humidification component;
• a heating element disposed in the base unit and configured for converting received electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation;
• at least one sensor positioned external to a humidification component and coupled with a control module, said at least one sensor configured for sensing water related information in said humidification component and providing said water related information to said control module, said water related information comprising data configured for being used to control an operation of a water level control element, wherein said humidification component is comprised entirely of a non-metallic material, said non-metallic material configured for transmitting electromagnetic radiation to said water volume, said heat being received from a heating element;
• at least one groove disposed on a heater wire, said heater wire being positioned in a respiratory gas conduit coupled with said humidification component;
• and
• a humidification component controller coupled with said humidification component and configured for receiving said humidification target value information, said humidification component controller comprising:
• a humidification target value determiner configured for determining, based on received humidification target value information, a humidification target value of at least two possible humidification target values, said humidification target value identifying a humidification level setting corresponding to said patient.

A device for maintaining a water level in a respiratory humidification system, said device comprising:

• at least one sensor positioned external to a humidification component and coupled with a control module, said at least one sensor configured for sensing water related information in said humidification component and providing said water related information to said control module, said water related information comprising data configured for being used to control an operation of a water level control element, wherein said humidification component is configured for retaining a water volume, said humidification component comprised entirely of a non-metallic material, said non-metallic material configured for transmitting electromagnetic radiation directly from a heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation, wherein the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component;
• at least one groove disposed on a heater wire of said device, said heater wire being positioned in a respiratory gas conduit coupled with said humidification component;
• and
• a humidification component controller coupled with said humidification component and configured for receiving said humidification target value information, said humidification component controller comprising:
• a humidification target value determiner configured for determining, based on received humidification target value information, a humidification target value of at least two possible humidification target values, said humidification target value identifying a humidification level setting corresponding to said patient.

A device for maintaining a water level in a respiratory humidification system, said device comprising:

• at least one sensor positioned external to a humidification component and coupled with a control module, said at least one sensor configured for sensing water related information in said humidification component and providing said water related information to said control module, said water related information comprising data configured for being used to control an operation of a water level control element, wherein said humidification component is configured for retaining a water volume, said humidification component comprised entirely of a non-metallic material, said non-metallic material configured for transmitting electromagnetic radiation directly from a heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation, wherein the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component;
• at least one groove disposed on a heater wire of said device, said heater wire being positioned in a respiratory gas conduit coupled with said humidification component;
• a gas delivery device coupled with said humidification component, said gas delivery device configured for controlling a delivery of said gas to said humidification component;
• and
• a communication module coupled with said gas delivery device and said humidification component, said communication module configured for communicating humidification target value information between said humidification component and said gas delivery device, said humidification component and said gas delivery device configured for determining, based on said humidification target value information, target operational information of a system associated with said patient, wherein said system comprises said device.

A system comprising:

• a heater wire comprising:
• at least one groove disposed thereon, said heater wire being positioned in a respiratory gas conduit;
• and
• a humidification component coupled with said heater wire and said respiratory gas conduit, said humidification component configured for retaining a water volume, said humidification component comprised entirely of a non-metallic material, said non-metallic material configured for transmitting electromagnetic radiation directly from a heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation, wherein the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component.

A system comprising:

• a heater wire comprising:
• at least one groove disposed thereon, said heater wire being positioned in a respiratory gas conduit;
• a humidification component coupled with said heater wire and said respiratory gas conduit, said humidification component configured for retaining a water volume and for adding water vapor to a gas to be provided to a patient to support breathing, said non-metallic material configured for transmitting electromagnetic radiation directly from a heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation, wherein the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component;
• and
• a humidification component controller coupled with said humidification component and configured for receiving said humidification target value information, said humidification component controller comprising:
• a humidification target value determiner configured for determining, based on received humidification target value information, a humidification target value of at least two possible humidification target values, said humidification target value identifying a humidification level setting corresponding to said patient.

A system comprising:

• a heater wire comprising:
• at least one groove disposed thereon, said heater wire being positioned in a respiratory gas conduit;
• a humidification component coupled with said heater wire and said respiratory gas conduit, said humidification component configured for retaining a water volume and for adding water vapor to a gas to be provided to a patient to support breathing, said humidification component comprised entirely of a non-metallic material, said non-metallic material configured for transmitting electromagnetic radiation directly from a heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation, wherein the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component;
• a gas delivery device coupled with said humidification component, said gas delivery device configured for controlling a delivery of said gas to said humidification component;
• and
• a communication module coupled with said gas delivery device and said humidification component, said communication module configured for communicating humidification target value information between said humidification component and said gas delivery device, said humidification component and said gas delivery device configured for determining, based on said humidification target value information, target operational information of said system associated with said patient.

An apparatus comprising:

• a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume and for adding water vapor to a gas to be provided to a patient to support breathing, said humidification component comprised entirely of a non-metallic material, said non-metallic material configured for transmitting electromagnetic radiation directly from a heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation, wherein the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component;
• and
• a humidification component controller coupled with said humidification component and configured for receiving said humidification target value information, said humidification component controller comprising:
• a humidification target value determiner configured for determining, based on received humidification target value information, a humidification target value of at least two possible humidification target values, said humidification target value identifying a humidification level setting corresponding to said patient.

An apparatus comprising:

• a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume and for adding water vapor to a gas to be provided to a patient to support breathing, said humidification component comprised entirely of a non-metallic material, said non-metallic material configured for transmitting electromagnetic radiation directly from a heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation, wherein the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component;
• a gas delivery device coupled with said humidification component, said gas delivery device configured for controlling a delivery of said gas to said humidification component;
• and
• a communication module coupled with said gas delivery device and said humidification component, said communication module configured for communicating humidification target value information between said humidification component and said gas delivery device, said humidification component and said gas delivery device configured for determining, based on said humidification target value information, target operational information of a system associated with said patient, wherein said system comprises said apparatus.

An apparatus comprising:

• a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume, said humidification component comprised entirely of a non-metallic material, said non-metallic material configured for transmitting electromagnetic radiation directly from a heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation, wherein the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component;
• a respiratory gas conduit comprising an input end and an output end, said respiratory gas conduit configured for receiving gas at said input end and configured to transport said gas to said output end;
• and
• a heater wire disposed inside said respiratory gas conduit, said heater wire comprising:
• a sheathing;
• and
• at least one groove disposed on said sheathing, said at least one groove configured for wicking up water from a region of condensation within said respiratory gas conduit and transporting wicked up water to a re-evaporation region.

An apparatus comprising:

• a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume and for adding water vapor to a gas to be provided to a patient to support breathing, said humidification component comprised entirely of a non-metallic material, said non-metallic material configured for transmitting electromagnetic radiation directly from a heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation, wherein the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component;
• a humidification component controller coupled with said humidification component and configured for receiving said humidification target value information, said humidification component controller comprising:
• a humidification target value determiner configured for determining, based on received humidification target value information, a humidification target value of at least two possible humidification target values, said humidification target value identifying a humidification level setting corresponding to said patient;
• a respiratory gas conduit comprising an input end and an output end, said respiratory gas conduit configured for receiving gas at said input end and configured to transport said gas to said output end;
• and
• a heater wire disposed inside said respiratory gas conduit, said heater wire comprising:
• a sheathing;
• and
• at least one groove disposed on said sheathing, said at least one groove configured for wicking up water from a region of condensation within said respiratory gas conduit and transporting wicked up water to a re-evaporation region.

An apparatus comprising:

• a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume and for adding water vapor to a gas to be provided to a patient to support breathing, said humidification component comprised entirely of a non-metallic material, said non-metallic material configured for transmitting electromagnetic radiation directly from a heating element to said water volume, such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation, wherein the heating element comprising no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component;
• a respiratory gas conduit comprising an input end and an output end, said respiratory gas conduit configured for receiving gas at said input end and configured to transport said gas to said output end;
• a heater wire disposed inside said respiratory gas conduit, said heater wire comprising:
• a sheathing;
• and
• at least one groove disposed on said sheathing, said at least one groove configured for wicking up water from a region of condensation within said respiratory gas conduit and transporting wicked up water to a re-evaporation region;
• a gas delivery device coupled with said humidification component, said gas delivery device configured for controlling a delivery of said gas to said humidification component;
• and
• a communication module coupled with said gas delivery device and said humidification component, said communication module configured for communicating humidification target value information between said humidification component and said gas delivery device, said humidification component and said gas delivery device configured for determining, based on said humidification target value information, target operational information of a system associated with said patient, wherein said system comprises said apparatus.

A method for humidifying respiratory gases, said method comprising:

• receiving electrical energy at a heating element;
• converting, by said heating element, said electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to a water volume within a humidification component such that the water volume absorbs the electromagnetic radiation, thereby heating said water volume to achieve a heated water volume that produces water vapor, wherein said heating element comprises no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component;
• flowing respiratory gases across said heated water volume, wherein said water vapor humidifies said respiratory gases;
• sensing, by at least one sensor, water related information in said humidification component, said at least one sensor positioned external to said humidification component and coupled with a control module;
• and
• providing, by said at least one sensor, said water related information to said control module, said water related information comprising data configured for being used to control an operation of a water level control element.

A method for humidifying respiratory gases, said method comprising:

• receiving electrical energy at a heating element;
• converting, by said heating element, said electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to a water volume within a humidification component such that the water volume absorbs the electromagnetic radiation, thereby heating said water volume to achieve a heated water volume that produces water vapor, wherein said humidification component is configured for retaining said water volume and is entirely comprised of a non-metallic material, and wherein said heating element comprises no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component;
• and
• flowing respiratory gases across said heated water volume, wherein said water vapor humidifies said respiratory gases.

A method for humidifying respiratory gases, said method comprising:

• receiving electrical energy at a heating element;
• converting, by said heating element, said electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation, wherein said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to a water volume within a humidification component such that the water volume absorbs the electromagnetic radiation, thereby heating said water volume to achieve a heated water volume that produces water vapor, wherein said heating element comprises no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component;
• flowing respiratory gases across said heated water volume, wherein said water vapor humidifies said respiratory gases;
• sensing, by at least one sensor, water related information in said humidification component, said at least one sensor positioned external to said humidification component and coupled with a control module;
• and
• providing, by said at least one sensor, said water related information to said control module, said water related information comprising data configured for being used to control an operation of a water level control element, wherein said humidification component is entirely comprised of a non-metallic material.

A method for maintaining a water level in a humidification component, said method comprising:

• receiving, at a humidification component, electromagnetic radiation from a heating element, said humidification component configured for retaining a water volume, wherein said humidification component is entirely comprised of a non-metallic material;
• transmitting, by said non-metallic material, received electromagnetic radiation through said humidification component into said water volume such that the water volume is heated by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation, wherein said heating element comprises no component that contacts the water volume within the humidification component;
• sensing, by at least one sensor, water related information in said humidification component, said at least one sensor positioned external to said humidification component and coupled with a control module;
• and
• providing, by said at least one sensor, said water related information to said control module, said water related information comprising data configured for being used to control an operation of a water level control element.

A method of manufacturing a device for humidifying respiratory gases, said method comprising:

• providing a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume;
• disposing a heating element within a base unit configured to support the humidification component;
• coupling said humidification component with said base unit, wherein said heating element is configured for receiving electrical energy and converting said electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation such that said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume such that the water volume absorbs the electromagnetic radiation, thereby heating said water volume to achieve a heated water volume, and wherein said heating element of comprises no component that contacts the water volume within said humidification component;
• and
• coupling at least one sensor with a control module, said at least one sensor configured for sensing water related information in said humidification component and providing said water related information to said control module, said water related information comprising data configured for being used by said control module to control an operation of a water level control element, wherein said at least one sensor is positioned external to said humidification component.

A method of manufacturing a device for humidifying respiratory gases, said method comprising:

• providing a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume;
• disposing a heating element within a base unit configured to support the humidification component;
• coupling said humidification component with said base unit, wherein said heating element is configured for receiving electrical energy and converting said electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation such that said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume such that the water volume absorbs the electromagnetic radiation, thereby heating said water volume to achieve a heated water volume, and wherein said heating element comprises no component that contacts the water volume within said humidification component;
• providing a heater wire, said heater wire configured for heating gas inside and between an input and output end of a respiratory gas conduit coupled with said humidification component;
• disposing a sheathing on a wire component of said heater wire, wherein said sheathing comprises a hydrophilic component;
• and
• disposing at least one groove on said sheathing, said at least one groove configured for wicking up water from a region of condensation and transporting wicked up water to a re-evaporation region.

A method of manufacturing a device for humidifying respiratory gases, said method comprising:

• providing a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume;
• disposing a heating element within a base unit configured to support the humidification component;
• coupling said humidification component with said base unit, wherein said heating element is configured for receiving electrical energy and converting said electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation such that said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume such that the water volume absorbs the electromagnetic radiation, thereby heating said water volume to achieve a heated water volume, and wherein said heating element comprises no component that contacts the water volume within said humidification component;
• coupling at least one sensor with a control module, said at least one sensor configured for sensing water related information in said humidification component and providing said water related information to said control module, said water related information comprising data configured for being used by said control module to control an operation of a water level control element, wherein said at least one sensor is positioned external to said humidification component;
• providing a heater wire, said heater wire configured for heating gas inside and between an input and output end of a respiratory gas conduit coupled with said humidification component;
• disposing a sheathing on a wire component of said heater wire, wherein said sheathing comprises a hydrophilic component;
• and
• disposing at least one groove on said sheathing, said at least one groove configured for wicking up water from a region of condensation and transporting wicked up water to a re-evaporation region.

A method of manufacturing a device for humidifying respiratory gases, said method comprising:

• providing a humidification component configured for retaining a water volume;
• disposing a heating element within a base unit;
• coupling said humidification component with said base unit, wherein said heating element is configured for receiving electrical energy and converting said electrical energy to electromagnetic radiation such that said electromagnetic radiation is transferred directly from said heating element to said water volume such that the water volume absorbs the electromagnetic radiation, thereby heating said water volume to achieve a heated water volume, and wherein said heating element comprises no component that contacts the water volume within said humidification component;
• providing a heater wire, said heater wire configured for heating gas inside and between an input and output end of a respiratory gas conduit coupled with said humidification component;
• disposing a sheathing on a wire component of said heater wire, wherein said sheathing comprises a hydrophilic component;
• and
• disposing at least one groove on said sheathing, said at least one groove configured for wicking up water from a region of condensation and transporting wicked up water to a re-evaporation region.