A flow diverter valve is used in controlling the pressure and/or flow rate of
a
breathable gas supplied to the airways of a patient by a breathable gas flow generator
supply apparatus during, for example, ventilatory assistance treatments such as
non-invasive positive pressure ventilation and nasal Continuous Positive Airway
Pressure (CPAP) treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea. The flow diverter valve includes
a vane and a housing. The housing has an inlet port, an outlet port, and an exhaust
port. The exhaust port opens to atmosphere, and the inlet port is in fluid communication
with the flow generator. The outlet port is in fluid communication with a patient
mask via a conduit. The vane is configured with respect to the housing such that
a blower associated with the CPAP apparatus remains substantially unchoked, regardless
of whether the vane is in the open or closed position.
