Patent Application
20250195810
The present disclosure relates to mask assemblies for respiratory therapy. In particular, the present disclosure relates to full-face mask assemblies that cover the mouth and nose of the user.
Obstructive sleep apnea is commonly treated with the application of positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy. PAP therapy involves delivering a flow of gas to a patient at a therapeutic pressure above atmospheric pressure that will reduce the frequency and/or duration of apneas, hypopneas, and/or flow limitations. The therapy is often implemented by using a positive airway pressure device to deliver a pressurized stream of air through a conduit to a patient through a mask assembly positioned on the face of the patient.
Typical mask assemblies are configured to provide sealed communication with a user's airway by sealing around parts of the user's nose and/or mouth. These mask assemblies are commonly used to provide therapies such as, but not limited to, non-invasive ventilation (NIV) and continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). CPAP therapy is commonly used to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and involves providing a constant supply of pressurized air to a user's airway.
Various problems exist in respect of such full-face mask assemblies. One such problem can be that when the user is side sleeping, one or more parts of the mask assembly can contact the bed or pillow, move and deform, and allow inspiratory gas to leak from the mask assembly, reducing the effectiveness of the therapy, and also causing noise and draughts. Further such movement and deformation can be uncomfortable for the patient. Another problem is the noise made by the inspiratory gas flowing into the mask assembly during therapy. Such noise can be annoying to the patient and others around the patient. A general problem in providing a mask assembly is to improve patient adherence in wearing the mask assembly when required, and for as long as required.
A need exists to provide mask assembly with improved comfort and/or sealing performance; and/or to improve on any one or more of the problems mentioned above; and/or to provide the public with a useful choice.
The mask assemblies described herein have innovative aspects, no single one of which is indispensable or solely responsible for their desirable attributes. Without limiting the scope of the claims, some of the advantageous features will now be summarized.
According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a mask assembly comprising
The frame may comprise a central connection portion, configured to be removably connected to the cushion. The inlet opening may be formed in the central connection portion. The frame material at the central connection portion may circumscribe the inlet opening.
The cushion may comprise a lower portion adjacent the inlet aperture, and an upper portion defining the top of the cushion.
The frame may comprise an elongate frame member extending across the upper portion of the cushion.
The elongate member may extend down the side wall.
The lower portion of the frame may be wider than the upper portion, the upper and lower portions being spaced apart.
The lower portion of the frame may comprise lateral arms which extend laterally outwardly from the inlet opening.
The lateral arms may be relatively narrow as compared to the lower portion, the lower portion being relatively wide.
The inlet opening may be provided in the relatively wide, lower portion.
The lower portion of the frame may extend symmetrically about a central axis of the inlet opening of the frame.
The lower portion of the frame may be positioned centrally, when the mask assembly is viewed from the front.
The frame inlet opening may comprise a central axis, the central axis extending generally downwardly from the mask assembly.
The inlet aperture of the cushion may taper from the bottom of the inlet aperture to the top of the inlet aperture.
The inlet aperture of the cushion may comprise a substantially planar base and inwardly inclined sides.
The mask assembly may comprise an inlet connector configured to be connected to the frame at the central connection portion, the inlet connector being configured to be connected to the source of pressurised gas.
The inlet connector, when connected to the central connection portion, may be received in the inlet opening,
The cushion may be mounted on the inlet connector and/or the frame so as to receive gas from the inlet connector. The inlet connector may provide the connection between the cushion and the frame.
The inlet connector may form a gas flow path, for the pressurised gas, between the source of pressurised gas and the cushion.
The inlet aperture of the cushion may be configured to be fluidly coupled to a breathing gas delivery conduit via the inlet connector.
The inlet connector may be configured to be positioned between the cushion and the frame.
The inlet connector may comprise an inlet boss configured to receive breathing gas from the gas delivery conduit.
The inlet boss may comprise an inlet port.
The inlet connector may comprise an outlet boss in fluid communication with both the inlet boss and the cushion.
The outlet boss may comprise an outlet port.
The inlet boss may comprise a conduit connector configured to connect with the breathing gas delivery conduit.
The outlet boss may be larger than the inlet boss.
The outlet boss may taper from the bottom of the outlet opening to the top of the outlet opening.
The outlet boss may comprise a substantially planar base and inwardly inclined sides.
The inlet connector may taper from the bottom to the top of the inlet connector.
The inlet connector may comprise a substantially planar base and inwardly inclined sides.
The inlet connector may be integrally formed with the cushion, at the cushion inlet aperture.
The inlet connector may be permanently mounted on the cushion, at the cushion inlet aperture.
The inlet connector may be removably mounted on the cushion, at the cushion inlet aperture.
The inlet connector may be integrally formed with the frame, at the frame inlet opening.
The inlet connector may be permanently mounted on the frame, at the frame inlet opening.
The inlet connector may be removably mounted on the frame, at the frame inlet opening.
The inlet opening may be provided in a planar region of the lower portion the frame, the plane of the planar region being less than 30° from horizontal, or less than 20° from horizontal, or less than 10° from horizontal, or less than 5° from horizontal, or substantially horizontal.
The planar region may comprise a generally planar base of the frame.
The mask assembly may comprise one or more vent holes and/or one or more anti-asphyxia valve openings.
The one or more vent holes and/or one or more anti-asphyxia valve openings may be adjacent the inlet opening of the frame.
The one or more vent holes and/or one or more anti-asphyxia valve openings, may be above the inlet opening of the frame.
The lower portion of the frame may comprise a recess, adjacent the inlet opening, the one or more vent holes and/or one or more anti-asphyxia valve openings being exposed through the recess.
The cushion may comprise a transparent region extending around at least part of the inlet aperture of the cushion, the frame being configured such that the transparent region is exposed.
The face contacting portion may comprise a sealing surface comprising an inner margin, the inner margin comprising a thin flap.
The cushion may be removably mounted on the frame.
The cushion may be permanently mounted on the frame.
The cushion may comprise a region configured to buckle in a single direction to define a roll of material that extends over the mask frame.
The cushion may comprise a distal non-face contacting surface or side, the uppermost portion of the cushion comprising a rolling bridge portion and being pivotable relative to a lower portion of the cushion, the uppermost portion comprising a region of reduced stiffness that is positioned between a first boundary, the first boundary being defined by a stiffness greater than that in the region of reduced stiffness, the second boundary being defined by a stiffness greater than that in the region of reduced stiffness, wherein when the first boundary is moved toward the second boundary, the region of reduced stiffness buckles to define a roll of material that increases in size away from the face-contacting portion as the first boundary continues to move toward the second boundary to facilitate movement of the rolling bridge portion of the cushion relative to the lower portion of the cushion; wherein the mask frame is configured to overlay an exterior portion of the second boundary such that the roll of material extends over/overlaps with the mask frame.
The cushion may comprise an interior surface positioned to be adjacent the nose of the patient in use, the interior surface comprising an internally recessed portion, adjacent the patient's nose. This can assist in providing greater clearance between the interior surface of the cushion and the patient's nose. The recessed region may be located centrally directly below a rolling bridge portion of the cushion.
The frame may be configured to overlay an exterior portion of the side wall; wherein a lateral dimension is defined between the lower or the upper pair of headgear connectors;
The frame may be configured to overlay an exterior portion of the side wall; wherein the distal inlet aperture of the cushion forms a connection with the frame by way of being connected to the inlet opening of the frame;
The frame may be configured to be:
The distal inlet aperture of the cushion may be removably connected to the inlet opening of the frame, and the frame is configured to overlap an exterior portion of the side wall.
The frame may comprise:
The frame aperture may be configured such that the cushion is exposed through the frame aperture.
The mask assembly may be fluidly coupled to a breathing gas delivery conduit via an inlet connector, the inlet connector being configured to be positioned between the cushion and the frame, wherein the inlet connector is exposed through the frame aperture.
The upper, side and lower frame portions may be configured to overlap with and support the cushion, except at the inlet opening and the frame aperture.
The upper frame portion may comprise an elongate frame element extending laterally across an upper portion of the cushion. The elongate frame element preferably extends below an uppermost portion of the cushion.
The upper frame portion may comprise a rear surface which rests against the upper portion of the cushion, when the cushion is mounted on the frame. The upper portion of the cushion may comprise an elongate recess extending laterally across the cushion, the upper frame portion being received in the elongate recess. The upper frame portion may be received in the elongate recess with an interference fit. The elongate recess may be configured to resiliently deform to receive the upper frame portion.
The upper frame portion may comprise a plurality of elongate frame elements. In one example the upper frame portion comprises two elongate frame elements. The elongate frame elements may be spaced apart so as to define a space between them. The cushion may be exposed through the space. The elongate frame elements may be configured such the space between the elongate frame elements can be adjusted. One, both or each elongate frame element may be movably mounted on the frame, so as to be movable towards or away from another elongate frame element. One, both or each elongate frame element may be pivotally mounted on the frame. One both or each elongate frame element may be resiliently deformable, or comprise one or more resiliently deformable regions, such that an elongate frame element may be resiliently deformed towards or away from another elongate frame element. One, both or each elongate frame element may be adjustable between two or more predetermined positions.
The frame may be configured to deform the cushion when the cushion is mounted on the frame. For example, the frame may laterally squeeze the cushion. In other words, the lateral width of the cushion when mounted on the frame, may be less than the lateral width of the cushion when not mounted on the frame.
The opposed side portions of the frame may define a lateral distance between them which is less than the corresponding lateral distance between side walls of the cushion. In particular, the lateral distance between cushion engaging surfaces of the opposed side portions may be less than the distance between the side walls of the cushion. For example, the lateral distance between the opposed side portions may be 90% of the lateral distance between side walls of the cushion.
The distal inlet aperture of the cushion may form a connection with the frame by way of being connected to the inlet opening of the frame, the remainder of the cushion not being connected to the frame.
The cushion may be cantilevered on the frame by way of the distal inlet aperture of the cushion being connected to the inlet opening of the frame.
The inlet opening may be provided at a lower part of the frame; wherein
The distal inlet aperture of the cushion may be removably connected to the inlet opening of the frame; and
The mask assembly may comprise lateral arms on either side of the inlet opening that extend towards the face contacting portion of the cushion; and an elongate frame member that extends over an upper portion of the cushion and connects the lateral arms.
Each headgear connector may comprise an elongate post on which a respective headgear strap is configured to be mounted; wherein the elongate posts of the lower pair of headgear connectors are inclined relative to the elongate posts of the upper pair of elongate posts.
The cushion may comprise a rolling bridge portion which is pivotable about a pivot axis relative to the remainder of the cushion towards or away from the user; wherein each headgear connector is positioned such that headgear straps overlap the pivot axis when connected to the headgear connectors.
The frame may comprise opposed lateral arms extending laterally outwardly from the frame, each lateral arm comprising at least one of the headgear connectors onto which a respective headgear strap can be connected; wherein the lateral arms each extend laterally outwardly from the frame in a direction substantially aligned with a primary force vector from the headgear straps when connected to the headgear connectors.
The frame may comprise at least one guide surface configured to guide headgear straps, during connection of the headgear straps to the headgear connectors, toward a respective headgear connector.
The mask assembly may comprise one or more headgear clips configured to connect the lower and/or upper headgear straps to the lower and/or upper headgear connectors.
The headgear clip may comprise a clip body. The clip body may be elongate. The clip body may comprise a slot to receive a headgear strap. The clip body may comprise a hook to receive a post of a headgear connector.
The headgear clip may comprise an extension configured to extend away from the body and support the side wall of the cushion. This can assist in reducing or preventing cushion blow out.
Each headgear clip may comprise a pair of upper and lower extensions. The extensions may be shaped to match the shape of the side wall of the cushion, and each comprise a support surface against which the cushion side wall can rest. The lower extension may comprise a distal end which terminates below the lateral frame arm. The upper extension may comprise a distal end which terminates adjacent upper headgear connector.
The cushion may comprise an exterior indent configured to be positioned adjacent a headgear clip when the cushion is mounted on the frame and a headgear strap is mounted on an upper or lower headgear connector, the indent providing clearance between the cushion and the headgear clip.
The indent may be provided on a region of the side wall of the cushion adjacent a headgear connector of the frame. The indent may be adjacent a lower headgear connector. The indent may be adjacent an upper headgear connector. A plurality of indents may be provided. Each indent may be elongate and may extend rearwardly. The indent may be configured such that the headgear clip can move relative to the lower headgear connector, without contacting the cushion.
The cushion may be provided with one or more support ribs, internally of the cushion, to resist deformation of the cushion.
The cushion may comprise a pair of laterally spaced apart, generally laterally extending support ribs, one on each side of the central vertical axis of the cushion. The laterally extending support ribs may be located in an upper portion of the cushion adjacent a rolling bridge portion of the cushion.
The cushion may comprise a pair of laterally spaced apart, generally vertically extending support ribs. Each rib may be at or adjacent a pivot axis of a rolling bridge portion of the cushion. These vertically extending support ribs can limit by how much the nose portion of the cushion balloons under pressure, reducing the likelihood of eye leaks for example.
Each rib may be integrally formed with the cushion, from the same cushion material.
The lower part of the frame may comprise a pair of finger grips, the inlet opening being intermediate and adjacent the finger grips.
The inlet opening may be provided at a lower part of the frame; wherein the inlet opening comprises a central axis, the central axis extending generally downwardly.
The central axis of the frame inlet opening may extend through the cushion inlet aperture and below the lower part of the frame.
The inlet opening may be provided at a lower part of the frame, the inlet opening comprising a central axis; wherein the assembly further comprises an anti-asphyxia valve comprising a valve member and a valve outlet opening, the valve being movable between a closed position in which the valve member closes the valve outlet opening, and an open position in which the valve member opens the valve outlet opening, the valve outlet opening comprising a valve outlet central axis; wherein
The lower part of the frame may comprise a vent hole and a diffuser configured to cover the vent hole.
The mask assembly may comprise an anti-asphyxia valve provided between the cushion inlet aperture and the frame inlet opening, and comprising a valve member and a valve outlet opening, the valve member being movable between a closed position in which the valve member closes the valve outlet opening, and an open position in which the valve member opens the valve outlet opening, the valve outlet opening comprising a valve outlet opening central axis; wherein the valve member is pivotally mounted above the frame inlet opening, the valve outlet opening being positioned above the valve member and above the frame inlet opening, the valve member pivoting away from the cushion to close the valve outlet opening, the valve outlet opening being provided on a forward part of the assembly.
In embodiments of this disclosure a mask assembly is provided which comprises:
For example, the distal inlet aperture of the cushion may be removably connected to the inlet opening of the frame. The frame may be configured to overlap an exterior portion of the side wall of the cushion.
In embodiments of this disclosure a mask assembly is provided which comprises a cushion with a proximal face contacting portion, a distal inlet aperture, and a side wall between the proximal face contacting portion and the distal inlet aperture, and a frame comprising an inlet opening configured to connect to a source of pressurised gas.
The distal inlet aperture of the cushion may be removably connected to the inlet opening of the frame. The frame may comprise a pair of upper and a pair of lower headgear connectors. The cushion may comprise an uppermost portion, both pairs of upper and lower headgear connectors being below the cushion uppermost portion.
The mask assembly may further comprise a headgear assembly. The headgear assembly may comprise a strap assembly including at least a pair of opposing side straps, and/or a rear strap or panel, and/or a crown strap. The pair of opposing side straps may be a pair of opposing upper side straps; the headgear assembly further comprising a pair of opposing lower side straps. A free end of each of the upper straps may be coupled to the mask frame. A free end of each of the lower side straps may be coupled to the mask frame.
According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a mask assembly comprising a mask seal and a mask frame, the mask seal comprising a region configured to buckle in a single direction to define a roll of material that extends over the mask frame.
According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a mask assembly comprising a mask seal mounted on a mask frame, the mask frame comprising an elongate member extending over an apex of the mask seal, the mask seal comprising a region configured to buckle in a single direction to define a roll of material that extends over the elongate member.
According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a mask assembly comprising a mask seal mounted on a mask frame, the mask frame defining an upper frame portion and a lower frame portion and an opening therebetween, the mask seal being exposed through the opening, the mask seal comprising a region configured to buckle in a single direction to define a roll of material that extends over the upper frame portion.
According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a mask assembly comprising a mask seal and a mask frame, the mask seal comprising a region configured to buckle in a single direction to define a roll of material that extends over the mask frame, the mask frame comprising at least one headgear connector.
According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a mask assembly comprising
According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a mask assembly comprising a mask cushion and a mask frame, the mask seal comprising a proximal face-contacting portion and a distal non-face contacting portion, the mask cushion further comprising an upper portion and a lower portion, the upper portion comprising a rolling bridge portion and being pivotable relative to the lower portion, the upper portion comprising a region of reduced stiffness that is positioned between a first boundary, the first boundary being defined by a stiffness greater than that in the region of reduced stiffness, the second boundary being defined by a stiffness greater than that in the region of reduced stiffness, wherein when the first boundary is moved toward the second boundary, the region of reduced stiffness buckles to define a roll of material that increases in size away from the face-contacting portion as the first boundary continues to move toward the second boundary to facilitate movement of the rolling bridge portion of the mask cushion relative to the lower portion of the mask cushion,
The roll of material may be movable relative to the lower portion of the mask cushion to extend partially over an upper portion of the mask frame.
The roll of material may be movable relative to the lower portion of the mask cushion to extend fully over the upper portion of the mask frame.
The upper portion of the mask cushion may be pivotable relative to the lower portion of the mask cushion about a pivot axis, the pivot axis being substantially mid-way up the mask cushion, when the mask cushion is viewed from the side.
The roll of material may extend over a forward margin of the upper portion of the mask frame.
The region of reduced stiffness may buckle in a single direction to define the roll of material.
The frame may form part of the second boundary.
The frame may comprise at least one headgear connector and an inlet opening configured to connect to a source of pressurised gas; the cushion comprising an inlet aperture; wherein
The frame may comprise any one or more of:
An inlet aperture of the cushion may form a connection with the frame by way of being connected to an inlet opening of the frame, the remainder of the cushion not being connected to the frame.
According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a mask assembly comprising:
According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a mask assembly comprising:
According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a mask assembly comprising
According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a mask assembly comprising:
a pair of headgear connectors, and
According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a mask assembly comprising:
The frame may be configured to be longitudinally non-compliant in a longitudinal direction between the proximal face contacting portion and the distal non-face contacting portion, so as to resist deformation of the mask frame when subject to longitudinal forces.
The frame may be configured to be relatively laterally compliant and relatively longitudinally non-compliant.
The frame may comprise a plurality of frame regions, at least one frame region being weakened relative to at least one other frame region.
The plurality of frame regions may comprise at least one frame region which is relatively thin in one dimension to encourage bending of the frame about a first predetermined axis and relatively wide in another dimension to resist bending about a second predetermined axis.
The frame may comprise an upper portion which extends laterally across a portion of the mask assembly, the upper portion comprising a weakened region configured to allow bending of the upper portion.
The upper portion may be arcuate, wherein bending of the upper portion increases or decreases radius of arc.
At least one of the frame regions may comprise a living hinge.
A weakened frame region may be adjacent the inlet.
According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a mask assembly comprising:
The frame may comprise a lower portion, the inlet opening being provided in the lower portion, the lower portion overlapping with the cushion.
The frame may comprise an upper portion, the upper portion overlapping an upper portion of the cushion.
The frame may comprise any one or more of:
An inlet aperture of the cushion may form a connection with the frame by way of being connected to an inlet opening of the frame, the remainder of the cushion not being connected to the frame.
According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a mask assembly comprising a resilient deformable cushion, and a frame, wherein the frame comprises:
The upper frame portion may extend across an upper portion of the cushion.
The cushion may comprise a region configured to buckle in a single direction to define a roll of material that extends over the upper frame portion, the upper frame portion extending across the upper portion of the cushion adjacent the region configured to buckle. In another embodiment, the upper frame portion may extend across the upper portion of the cushion so as to be spaced below the region configured to buckle.
The upper frame portion may comprise a forward margin, the cushion being exposed below the forward margin.
At least one of the upper frame portion, side frame portions, and lower frame portion may comprise an elongate frame member.
The inlet opening may comprise a central axis, the central axis extending generally downwardly.
The central axis of the frame inlet opening may extend through the cushion inlet aperture and below the lower part of the frame.
The inlet aperture of the cushion may form a connection with the frame by way of being connected to an inlet opening of the frame, the remainder of the cushion not being connected to the frame.
According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a mask assembly comprising:
According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a mask assembly comprising:
The cushion may be cantilevered on the frame by way of the distal inlet aperture of the cushion being connected to the inlet opening and/or central connection portion of the frame.
The frame may be configured to overlap an exterior portion of the side wall of the cushion.
The frame may be configured to be laterally compliant so as to resiliently deform such that a lateral dimension of the mask assembly can change when subject to lateral forces.
The frame may comprise any one or more of:
According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a mask assembly comprising:
The frame may comprise an upper frame portion that extends across an upper portion of the cushion.
The upper frame portion may comprise a forward margin, the cushion being exposed below the forward margin.
The inlet opening may comprise a central axis, the central axis extending generally downwardly.
The central axis of the frame inlet opening may extend through the cushion inlet aperture and below the lower part of the frame.
The frame may comprise any one or more of:
At least one of the upper frame portion, side frame portions and lower frame portion may comprise an elongate frame member.
According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a mask assembly comprising:
According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a mask assembly comprising:
The elongate frame member may comprise distal end portions adjacent the side wall, the apex portion being between the distal end portions, the elongate narrowed portion being between the distal end portions and the central apex portion.
The cushion may comprise a nasal bridge portion, the elongate frame member being spaced below the nasal bridge portion.
The elongate frame member may comprise a forward margin, the cushion being exposed in front of the forward margin.
The inlet opening may comprise a central axis, the central axis extending generally downwardly.
The central axis of the frame inlet opening may extend through the cushion inlet aperture and below the lower part of the frame.
The frame may comprise a frame aperture defined between the upper, side and lower frame portions, and configured such that the cushion is exposed through the frame aperture.
According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a mask assembly comprising:
The elongate frame member may be arcuate.
The cushion may comprise an apex portion, the elongate frame member extending at or adjacent the apex portion.
The lateral arms and the elongate frame member may be configured to define a frame aperture which exposes the cushion.
The frame aperture may expose the cushion above the inlet opening of the frame, above the lateral extensions/arms and below the elongate connecting member.
The upper frame portion may comprise a forward margin, the cushion being exposed forward of the forward margin.
The frame may comprise a lower portion, the inlet opening being provided in the lower portion, the inlet opening comprising a central axis, the central axis extending generally downwardly.
The central axis of the frame inlet opening may extend through the cushion inlet aperture and below the lower part of the frame.
An inlet aperture of the cushion may form a connection with the frame by way of being connected to an inlet opening of the frame, the lateral arms of the frame not being connected to the cushion.
According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a mask assembly comprising:
According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a mask assembly comprising:
The elongate posts of the lower pair of headgear connectors may be substantially vertical when the mask assembly is viewed from the front.
The elongate posts of the upper pair of headgear connectors may be inwardly inclined when the mask assembly is viewed from the front.
The elongate posts of the lower pair of headgear connectors may be substantially vertical when the mask assembly is viewed from the side.
The elongate posts of the upper pair of headgear connectors may be forwardly inclined when the mask assembly is viewed from the side.
The lower pair of headgear connectors may be at a widest part of the frame.
The widest part of the frame may comprise a lower portion of the frame, an upper portion of the frame being narrower than the lower portion of the frame, when the mask assembly is viewed from the front.
The elongate posts of the upper pair of headgear connectors may be at or below an upper portion of the cushion.
According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a mask assembly comprising:
The pair of laterally opposed headgear connectors may comprise an upper pair of headgear connectors, the mask assembly further comprising a lower pair of headgear connectors.
The elongate posts of the upper pair of headgear connectors may be at or below an upper portion of the cushion.
The pair of headgear connectors may be inwardly inclined when the mask assembly is viewed from the front.
The upper pair of headgear connectors may be forwardly inclined when the mask assembly is viewed from the side.
Each headgear connector may comprise an elongate post.
According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a mask assembly comprising:
The inlet opening may comprise a central axis, the lateral arms extending away from the inlet opening at an angle inclined relative to the central axis.
The angle may be between 1° and 80°, or between 1° and 80°, or between 15 and 70°, or between 2° and 60°, or between 25 and 55°, or is substantially 45°.
The headgear connectors may be positioned sufficiently rearwardly on the frame to be adjacent the face contacting portion of the cushion.
The headgear connectors may be positioned sufficiently rearwardly to be aligned with a rolling bridge portion of the cushion.
The headgear connectors may be positioned nearer the rear of the mask assembly than the front of the mask assembly.
The cushion may comprise an inlet aperture, the inlet aperture forming a connection with the frame by way of being connected to an inlet opening of the frame, the lateral arms of the frame not being connected to the cushion.
According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a mask assembly comprising:
The guide surface may extend forwardly of the headgear connector.
The frame may comprise a central portion, the inlet opening being provided in the central portion, and lateral portions laterally outward of the central portion, the lateral portions each comprising a guide surface.
The guide surface may comprise a portion of a leading or forward edge of the frame.
Each headgear connector may be elongate, the or each guide surface being elongate, a longitudinal axis of each guide surface intersecting a longitudinal axis of a respective headgear connector.
The guide surface may comprise upper and lower guide surfaces that are relatively inclined to define a guide mouth converging on the headgear connector element
According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a mask assembly comprising
According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a mask assembly comprising:
According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a mask assembly comprising:
According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a mask assembly comprising:
According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a mask assembly comprising:
The diffuser may be removably mounted on the mask assembly.
The diffuser may comprise a diffuser frame. The diffuser may be integral with the diffuser frame.
The diffuser may be configured to clip onto the frame.
The diffuser may be mounted on the frame. The diffuser may be integral with the frame. The diffuser may be mounted on a separate component, the separate component being mounted on the frame.
The mask assembly may comprise an array of vent holes.
The frame may comprise two opposed pairs of headgear connectors:
The headgear connectors may all be located below a nasal bridge portion of the mask assembly.
The mask assembly may comprise a lower, central portion that is a different colour to the remainder of the frame and/or cushion.
The diffuser may be configured such that part of the colour of lower, central portion is exposed, when the diffuser is mounted on the mask assembly.
The frame may comprise a recess when viewed from the front, the diffuser being exposed through the recess.
The recess may comprise inclined side margins. The recess may be substantially ‘V’ shaped. The angle of the side margins of the recess may be substantially the same as the longitudinal axis of headgear straps of the mask assembly, when the headgear straps are connected to the headgear connectors.
According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a mask assembly comprising:
According to another aspect of this disclosure there is provided a mask assembly comprising:
The central portion of the frame may comprise any one or more of:
The connecting frame member may comprise an elongate band.
The connecting frame member may connect the lateral arms at a position above and behind the central portion.
The connecting frame member may extend over an upper portion of the cushion.
The connecting frame member may be integral with the lateral arms.
The connecting frame member may be flexible along at least a portion of its length.
The connecting frame member may comprise a central region, the central region being flexible.
The central region may be an apex region of the frame.
The cushion may comprise an upper portion adjacent the nasal bridge of the user; the upper portion of the cushion comprising a rolling bridge portion which is pivotable towards or away from the nasal bridge of the user to overlap with the central region of the connecting frame member.
The connecting frame member may comprise end regions, distal from the central region, the end regions being less flexible than the central region.
The central region may comprise a relatively thin and/or weakened structure, and the end regions comprise a relatively thick and/or reinforced structure.
The central region may comprise a first width, and the end regions comprise a second width, the second width being greater than the first width.
At least one headgear connector may comprise a pair of headgear connectors, the pair of headgear connectors being at or adjacent the end regions.
The central portion, lateral arms, and connecting frame member may together define a closed aperture of the frame.
The mask assembly may be arranged such that, from the side, an acute angle is formed between the lateral arms and the connecting frame member.
According to an aspect of this disclosure, a mask assembly may be provided comprising any one or more of the above features, wherein the cushion comprises an upper portion comprising a region of reduced stiffness that is positioned between a first boundary, the first boundary being defined by a stiffness greater than that in the region of reduced stiffness, the second boundary being defined by a stiffness greater than that in the region of reduced stiffness, wherein when the first boundary is moved toward the second boundary, the region of reduced stiffness buckles in a single direction to define a roll of material that increases in size away from the face-contacting flange or side as the first boundary continues to move toward the second boundary to facilitate movement of the rolling bridge portion of the mask seal relative to the lower portion of the mask seal.
In embodiments of this disclosure a mask assembly is provided which comprises:
The frame may comprise a frame clip configured to removably mount the frame on another component of the mask assembly. The central connection portion may comprise the frame clip.
The frame clip may be configured to be mounted only on one component of the mask assembly. The frame clip may therefore be configured not to be mounted on any other component of the mask assembly.
The frame may be configured to be removed from the other components of the mask assembly, without disassembly of those other components.
The cushion of the mask assembly may be configured to be removably mounted on a component of the mask assembly. The mask assembly may be configured such that the cushion can be removed from the component of the mask assembly without removing the mask frame from the mask assembly. The mask assembly may be configured such that the cushion can be removed from the component of the mask assembly without removing any other component from the mask assembly.
The mask assembly may comprise an inlet connector configured to be connected to a gas delivery conduit to deliver breathable gas into the inlet connector and into the cushion, the frame clip being configured to be removably mounted on the inlet connector. The cushion may be configured to be removably mounted on the inlet connector. The inlet connector may comprise an inlet port configured to be connected to the gas delivery conduit. The inlet connector may comprise an outlet port configured to be connected to the cushion. A gas flow path may be defined between the inlet port and the outlet port, through the inlet connector.
The mask assembly may comprise a conduit connector cuff of a gas delivery conduit configured to deliver breathable gas into the cushion, the frame clip being configured to be removably mounted on the conduit connector cuff.
The frame clip may be removably mounted on both the inlet connector and the conduit connector cuff.
The frame clip may comprise opposed ends between which is defined a mouth configured to receive another part of the mask assembly to mount the frame clip on the mask assembly.
The frame clip may comprise a front wall, and side walls extending rearwardly from the front wall, each side wall comprising an opposed end, the opposed ends being spaced apart to define the mouth at the rear of the frame clip.
The frame clip may comprise a rear wall, and side walls extending forwardly from the rear wall, each side wall comprising an opposed end, the opposed ends being spaced apart to define the mouth at the front of the frame clip.
The inlet port of the inlet connector may comprise a central inlet axis.
The mask assembly may be configured such that the central inlet axis is substantially vertical when the mask assembly is viewed from the front.
The inlet port may be considered to occupy a plane, the plane of the inlet port being substantially horizontal, or inclined less than 30° from the horizontal, in normal use, when the mask assembly is viewed from the front.
The central inlet axis may extend generally downwardly, when the mask assembly is viewed from the side. The central inlet axis may be inclined less than 30° from the vertical, when viewed from the side.
The central inlet axis may be substantially vertical when the mask assembly is viewed from the side.
The frame clip may be configured to be mounted on the mask assembly in a mounting direction substantially orthogonal to the central inlet axis.
The frame clip may be configured to be mounted on the mask assembly in a mounting direction that intersects the central inlet axis.
The mounting direction may be from front to rear of the mask assembly. The mounting direction may be from rear to front of the mask assembly.
At least one portion of the frame clip may be resiliently deformable, and configured to resiliently deform during mounting of the frame on the mask assembly. Preferably the at least one portion of the frame clip is configured to resiliently deform such that that opposed ends of the frame clip may deform away from each other to increase the size of the mouth of the frame clip, during mounting of the frame clip on the mask assembly. The frame clip may resiliently expand during mounting of the mask frame onto the remainder of the mask assembly, and then contract when fully mounted on the mask assembly.
The frame clip may be configured to be spaced from the remainder of the frame, such that forces applied to the remainder of the frame are decoupled from the frame clip. This decoupling may assist in minimising, for example, forces applied to the headgear connector(s) via headgear tension from deforming the frame clip and inadvertently disconnecting the frame clip from the mask assembly. The frame clip may comprise opposed sides that extend away from the mask frame, the opposed sides being spaced from the lateral arms and/or headgear connectors of the frame. The lateral arms and/or headgear connectors of the frame may be configured to deflect towards and/or away from the mask frame, without deforming the frame clip.
The frame clip may extend from the central connection portion of the frame. The frame clip may extend only from the central connection portion, such that the remainder of the frame clip is spaced from the remainder of the mask frame.
The opposed ends of the frame clip may extend outwardly away from the central connection portion. In such a configuration the opposed ends may comprise elongate fingers that define guide surfaces configured to guide the mask assembly during assembly. The elongate fingers may function as grips for the user to assist in expanding the frame clip during assembly and disassembly.
The opposed ends of the frame clip may function as locking formations configured to engage with another component of the mask assembly to resist removal of the frame clip from the mask assembly.
The frame clip may comprise a single integral component. The frame clip may comprise a plurality of components. The frame clip may comprise a pair of frame clip components the front and rear of the frame clip each comprising a respective mouth. Each of the frame clip components may comprise an end of a lateral arm of the frame, the other end of each lateral arm comprising a headgear connector.
The frame clip may be configured to be mounted on, and received in, a corresponding recess on the mask assembly. The recess may be provided for example on the inlet connector or on the conduit connector cuff, or may be on both components. The recess may be bounded by a lower radially outwardly extending formation, such as an annular flange, to resist movement of the frame clip in a generally downward direction. The recess may be bounded by an upper radially outwardly extending formation, such as an annular flange, to resist movement of the frame clip in a generally upward direction.
The mask assembly may comprise one or more guide surfaces configured to engage the frame clip during mounting of the frame clip on the mask assembly to guide the frame clip into a fully mounted position on the mask assembly.
The one or more guide surfaces may comprise inclined surfaces. The guide surfaces may be inclined generally upwardly in the mounting direction. The guide surfaces may comprise upper and lower guide surfaces, the guide surfaces converging in the mounting direction.
The one or more guide surfaces may be provided on the inlet connector. The one or more guide surfaces may be alternatively or additionally provided on the conduit connector cuff.
The mask assembly may comprise an end stop configured to abut the frame clip to limit the amount by which the frame clip can be moved onto the mask assembly.
The frame clip may be configured to resist or prevent relative rotation between the mask frame and the remainder of the mask assembly.
The frame clip may comprise at least one substantially straight or flat wall portion. The frame clip may comprise a plurality of substantially straight or flat wall portions. The substantially straight of flat wall portion may be configured to engage with one or more corresponding straight or flat portions of the mask assembly.
The frame clip may comprise a side wall, the straight or flat wall portion comprising a portion of the side wall.
The frame clip may comprise a pair of laterally opposed straight or flat side wall portions.
The side wall portions may be substantially straight and parallel.
The side wall portions may be substantially straight and non-parallel. For example, the side wall portions may converge as the side wall portions extend away from the mouth.
The frame clip may comprise one or more internal walls that define an inlet opening of the frame, the opening being non-circular.
The frame clip may comprise a front or rear wall, the straight of flat wall portion comprise a portion of the front or rear wall.
The frame clip may comprise an engagement formation, configured to engage a corresponding engagement formation on the mask assembly. The engagement formations may comprise a combination of one or more recesses on one component configured to receive one or more protrusions on another component. The engagement formations may be located laterally of the frame clip. The engagement surfaces may be provided on, or located adjacent, the frame clip. The engagement formations may be located on an interior surface of the frame clip. The engagement formations may be provided on an exterior surface of the frame clip. The exterior surface may be provided on a tab that projects forwardly of the frame clip. The engagement formations may engage with an interference fit.
The mask assembly components may comprise:
The mask assembly may be configured such that the mask frame, and in particular the frame clip, is sandwiched between other components of the mask assembly.
The frame clip may be sandwiched between:
The frame clip may be substantially flush with a front surface of the mask assembly. The frame clip may be spaced behind a front surface of the mask assembly.
The frame clip, when fully mounted on the mask assembly, may be connected to one of, or a combination of:
The cushion may be provided with a latching formation, such as a tooth, configured to engage with a latch on the mask frame, and when so engaged to retain the mask frame on the cushion.
The cushion may comprise a pair of laterally spaced apart teeth. The teeth may extend laterally.
The latch may be provided on the frame clip. The latch may comprise a button to release the latch from engaging the tooth. The button may comprise a tab on the frame clip, the tab being movable relative to the frame clip between latching and non-latching positions.
The mask frame may comprise a second latch configured to releasably engage the inlet connector.
The second latch may be provided on the tab such that the tab functions as a dual function button. A first, for example front part, of the tab, can be pressed to move each tab in a first direction relative to the inlet connector and cushion to disengage the tooth, and release the cushion from the mask frame. A second, for example rear, part of the tab can be moved in the opposed direction, to disengage the second latching formation from the inlet connector, and release the frame from the inlet connector.
The tab may provide a single button with which the user can:
According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a mask assembly comprising:
The cushion may comprise any one or more of:
The mask frame may comprise a central connection portion; the inlet connector being mounted on the central connection portion.
The cushion may be mounted on the inlet connector and/or the frame so as to receive gas from the inlet connector.
The frame may be removable from the remainder of the mask assembly independently of the cushion and independently of the inlet connector.
The cushion may be removable from the remainder of the mask assembly independently of the frame and/or independently of the inlet connector.
The inlet connector may comprise an inlet port configured to be connected to the source of pressurised gas. The inlet port of the inlet connector may comprise a central inlet axis,
The central inlet axis may be substantially vertical when the mask assembly is viewed from the front; and/or extends substantially downwardly when viewed from the side.
The mask frame may be removably mounted on a component of the mask assembly by moving the mask frame onto the component of the mask assembly in a mounting direction, the mounting direction intersecting, and preferably being orthogonal, to the central inlet axis.
The frame may comprise a frame clip configured to be removably mounted on the inlet connector to mount the central connection portion of the frame to the inlet connector.
The frame clip may be spaced from, and not in contact with, the remainder of the frame, such that forces applied to the remainder of the frame are decoupled from the frame clip.
The central connection portion may be relatively rigid. The remainder of the frame may be relatively flexible.
The frame may comprise lateral portions that extend away from the central connection portion, the lateral portions being relatively flexible.
The frame may be configured to be laterally resiliently deformable. The frame maybe configured to resist deformation in a direction from front to rear of the mask assembly, or vice versa.
The frame may be made from material which is different from the material of the cushion. The frame may be made from material which is relatively harder and/or less deformable than the cushion, and preferably is made from a plastics material.
The inlet connector may be made from material which is different from the material of the cushion. The inlet connector may be made from material which is relatively harder and/or less deformable than the cushion, and preferably is made from a plastics material.
The cushion may be formed from a relatively soft material. The cushion may be formed from a resiliently deformable material, and preferably is formed from silicone. The side walls of the cushion may be resiliently deformable.
A portion of the frame may overlay the cushion. Preferably a portion of the frame overlays the side walls of the cushion. A portion of the frame may overlay an upper portion of the cushion.
The frame may comprise lateral arms, and an upper portion comprising a connecting frame member which extends over an upper portion of the cushion between the lateral arms.
The connecting frame member may:
The cushion may comprise an upper portion adjacent the nasal bridge of the user; the upper portion of the cushion comprising a rolling bridge portion which is pivotable towards or away from the nasal bridge of the user to overlap with a central region of the connecting frame member.
In embodiments of this disclosure a mask assembly is provided which comprises:
The cushion may comprise a proximal face contacting portion, a distal inlet aperture, and a side wall between the proximal face contacting portion and the distal inlet aperture.
The frame may comprise a central connection portion, the inlet connector being mounted on the central connection portion.
The frame may comprise a frame clip configured to mount the frame onto another part of the mask assembly.
The frame clip may be configured to be removably mounted on the inlet connector.
In embodiments of this disclosure a mask assembly is provided which comprises:
In embodiments of this disclosure a mask assembly is provided which comprises:
The central inlet axis may be inclined relative to the vertical, when the mask assembly is viewed from the side.
The mounting direction may be orthogonal to the central inlet axis.
In embodiments of this disclosure a mask assembly is provided which comprises:
The mask assembly may be configured such that:
In embodiments of this disclosure a mask assembly is provided which comprises:
The frame clip may comprise opposed sides that extend away from the mask frame, the opposed sides being spaced from the headgear connectors of the frame.
The headgear connectors of the frame may be configured to deflect towards and/or away from the mask frame, without deforming the frame clip.
In embodiments of this disclosure a mask assembly is provided which comprises:
In embodiments of this disclosure a mask assembly is provided which comprises:
According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a respiratory mask kit comprising:
The headgear may comprise
The respiratory mask kit may comprise any one or more of:
The breathing gas delivery tube may comprise:
Throughout the drawings, reference numbers can be reused to indicate general correspondence between reference elements. The drawings are provided to illustrate example embodiments described herein and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure.
a) and b) are perspective and exploded views of a mask assembly in accordance with this disclosure with a modified mask frame, with
a) and b) are perspective and exploded perspective views of a mask assembly in accordance with this disclosure, with an integral mask frame and inlet connector.
a) and b) are perspective and exploded perspective views of a mask assembly in accordance with this disclosure, with an integral mask frame and inlet connector.
a) and b) are perspective and exploded perspective views of a mask assembly in accordance with this disclosure, with an integral mask frame and inlet connector.
Embodiments of mask assemblies, components and methods of assembly and manufacture will now be described with reference to the accompanying figures, wherein like numerals refer to like or similar elements throughout. Although several embodiments, examples and illustrations are disclosed below, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the disclosures described herein extend beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments, examples and illustrations, and can include other uses of the disclosures and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. The terminology used in the description presented herein is not intended to be interpreted in any limited or restrictive manner simply because it is being used in conjunction with a detailed description of certain specific embodiments of the disclosures. In addition, embodiments of the disclosures can comprise several novel features and no single feature is solely responsible for its desirable attributes or is essential to practicing the disclosures herein described.
With reference initially to
The mask assembly is configured to be relatively compact, and in particular to minimise the height of the mask assembly from top to bottom, and the depth of the mask assembly from front to back.
The mask assembly 1, when viewed from the front, comprises an elongate base, inclined sides inclining inwardly from bottom to top, the inclined sides meeting at an apex portion. The apex portion is arcuate, and comprises rounded intersections with the inclined sides. The elongate base also comprises rounded intersections with the inclined sides. When viewed from the front (for example, in
The inlet connector 7 is multi-functional, and comprises all the gas flow features required for the mask assembly 1 to function. The inlet connector 7 comprises the connection to the breathing gas delivery conduit 9, the breathing gas flow path from the conduit 9 to the interior cavity of the cushion 5, bias flow vent holes, an anti-asphyxia valve, and a diffuser. The inlet connector 7 occupies, despite all of these features, a relatively small proportion of the frontal area of the mask assembly 1. For example, the maximum width of the inlet connector 7 may be between a third and a half of the maximum width of the frame 3. The maximum height of the inlet connector 7 may be around half of the maximum height of the frame 3.
The frame 3 comprises a lower, central portion 11 comprising an inlet opening 13 configured to receive an inlet part, such as an inlet boss 47, of the inlet connector 7. The inlet opening 13 comprises an inlet opening axis 13A (see
The inlet opening axis 13A may be substantially aligned with an inlet axis 47A of the inlet boss 47 of the inlet connector 7, see for example the embodiment of
Lateral arms 15 extend, as elongate side frame elements, outwardly from the sides of the lower, central portion 11 in a generally horizontal direction, for example see
The ends of the lateral arms 15 terminate in a pair of lower headgear connectors 17.
The frame 3 further comprises a pair of upper headgear connectors 19, above the lower headgear connectors 17.
The frame 3 therefore comprises a pair of laterally spaced lower headgear connectors 17 and a pair of laterally spaced upper headgear connectors 19. As can be seen in
The central portion 11 is relatively tall when the frame 3 is viewed from the front. The central portion 11 tapers into the lateral arms 15 which are relatively narrow. Likewise the upper frame portion 25 is relatively narrow and forms a strip or band extending across the cushion 5.
The central portion 11 has a greater resistance to deformation and/or bending, as compared to the lateral arms 15 and upper frame portion 25. It is envisaged that the central portion 11 may be configured not to deform when side sleeping. In contrast the lateral arms 15 and upper frame portion 25 may deform relatively easily during side sleeping. The relative rigidity of the central portion 11 assists in maintaining a proper connection with the inlet connector 7.
The connecting frame member is flexible along at least a portion of its length, and in particular the connecting frame member comprises a central region being an apex of the connecting frame member, see
Each headgear connector 17, 19 in this embodiment is elongate. The lower pair of headgear connectors 17 are each in the form of an elongate element comprising a mounting post. The lower headgear straps 21 may be mounted to the mounting posts via a suitable headgear clip that comprises a hook that receives the mounting post. Alternatively, each lower headgear connector 17 can comprise a hook, the lower headgear strap 21 comprising a post that is received in the hook.
The upper pair of headgear connectors 19 each comprise an elongate element around which each upper headgear strap 23 may be looped and secured to itself using a suitable securing component such as a hook and loop fastener, or a buckle for example.
The mounting posts of the lower pair of headgear connectors 17 are substantially parallel, and extend substantially vertically when the mask assembly 1 is viewed from the front and from the side in use. The mounting posts are inclined forwardly relative to the inlet opening axis 13A. When viewed from the front, the longitudinal axes of the elongate posts are parallel with that inlet opening axis 13A.
The elongate elements of the upper pair of headgear connectors 19 are inclined relative to the mounting posts of the lower pair of headgear connectors 17. The elongate elements of the upper pair of headgear connectors 19 are also inclined inwardly towards one another when the mask assembly 1 is viewed from the front. Further the elongate elements of the upper pair of headgear connectors 19 are inclined forwardly when the mask assembly 1 is viewed from the side in use. The elongate elements of the upper pair of headgear connectors 19 are inclined inwardly relative to the central axis 13A of the inlet opening 13, when the mask assembly 1 is viewed from the front. The elongate elements of the upper pair of headgear connectors 19 are inclined forwardly such that they intersect the inlet opening axis 13A, when the mask assembly 1 is viewed from the side, for example as shown in
The elongate elements of the upper pair of headgear connectors 19 may be inclined forwardly so as to define an acute angle relative to the lateral arms 15. For example, a longitudinal axis of an elongate element of the upper pair of headgear connectors 19 may be inclined at an acute angle relative to a longitudinal axis of the adjacent lateral arm 15. The acute angle may be between 10° and 80°, or between 20° and 65°, and in some embodiments is substantially 45°.
In this embodiment the lower headgear connectors 17 comprise the rearmost part of the frame 3, when the mask assembly 1 is viewed from the side. The lower headgear connectors 17 also comprise the outermost part of the frame 3 when viewed from the front.
As noted above, and as can be seen in
The recess 62 can comprises a thickened region of the cushion 5.
The enlarged regions 19A each provide an enlarged surface area that overlays the sides of the cushion 5, as compared to the upper frame portion 25, providing additional support to the cushion 5 in those regions.
The combination of the elongate element of the upper headgear connectors 19 and the adjacent enlarged regions 19A, increases the rigidity of the frame 3 in those regions, and resists bending of the upper headgear connectors 19. The enlarged regions 19A also act to ensure there is enough space/clearance for the upper headgear straps 23 to attach to the upper headgear connector 19, without interfering with the protruding, forward edge of the rolling bridge portion 33. The central region of the upper frame portion 25 is relatively thin, as compared to the relatively wide enlarged regions 19A. The enlarged regions 19A comprise end regions of the upper frame portion 25, that extend between, and connect, the distal ends of the lateral arms 15.
The frame 3 is made from material such as a plastics material which is relatively harder and less deformable than the cushion 5, such that the frame 3 provides support to the cushion 5, and in particular to resist outward movement of the cushion 5. The frame 3 is structured to permit the frame to resiliently deform in a lateral direction, but to resist deformation in the front to back direction. This will be described further below.
The inlet connector 7 may be made from material which is relatively harder and less deformable than the cushion 5, and preferably is made from a plastics material.
The frame 3 and/or the inlet connector 7, may be made from a plastics material comprising, solely or in combination:
The cushion 5 is configured to be mounted on the frame 3, and in this embodiment to be removably mounted on the frame 3. Mounting features can be provided to ensure the cushion 5 can be mounted on the frame 3. In the described embodiments, the cushion 5 is mounted on the frame 3 via the inlet connector 7.
The cushion 5 may be mounted on the frame 3 via engagement between the inlet opening 13 of the frame 3, with the inlet connector 7. The engagement may be provided by any one or more of:
The cushion 5 is formed from a relatively soft, resiliently deformable material such as silicone. The cushion 5 defines an internal cavity that receives breathing gases from the breathing gas delivery conduit 9 via the inlet connector 7. The cushion 5 is provided with an inlet aperture 26.
The cushion 5 comprises a proximal face contacting portion 27, a distal non face contacting portion 29, and a side wall 31 extending between the face contacting portion 27 and the non-face contacting portion 29. The inlet aperture 25 is provided in the distal non-face contacting portion 29.
At least part of the side wall 31 is transparent 32 so as to define a clear region of the cushion 5 where the inside of the cushion 5 can be seen from outside the cushion 5.
This clear region 32 is arcuate when viewed from the front and extends upwardly from one lower headgear connector 17, across the top of the inlet connector 7, and downwardly to the other lower headgear connector 17.
An upper portion of the cushion 5 comprises a rolling bridge portion 33 which is pivotable relative to a lower portion 35 of the cushion 5, between a rest position in which the rolling bridge portion 33 is relatively rearward, to an in use position in which the rolling bridge portion 33 pivots forwardly such that part of the rolling bridge portion 33 buckles to provide a roll of material that extends over the mask frame 3. The rolling bridge portion 33 pivots about a pivot axis 33A. The pivotal movement of the rolling bridge portion 33 enables the upper part of the cushion to better accommodate, and seal against, differently sized noses.
The rolling bridge portion 33 further comprises an arcuate reinforcing band 34, which extends over the apex over the rolling bridge portion 33, and down each side of the cushion to the pivot axis 33A.
The rolling bridge portion 33 comprises a region of reduced stiffness 93 that is positioned between a first boundary 94, the first boundary 94 being defined by a stiffness greater than that in the region of reduced stiffness 93, and a second boundary 96, the second boundary being defined by a stiffness greater than that in the region of reduced stiffness. In this example, the first boundary 94 is adjacent the reinforcing band 34. The second boundary 96 is at the forward margin of the rolling bridge portion 33. When the first boundary 94 is moved toward the second boundary 96, the region of reduced stiffness 93 buckles to define a roll of material that increases in size away from the face-contacting portion of the cushion 5 as the first boundary 94 continues to move toward the second boundary 96 to facilitate movement of the rolling bridge portion 33 of the cushion 5 relative to the lower portion of the cushion 5.
The inlet aperture 25 is defined in the distal non-face contacting portion 29 of the cushion 5, and in particular in a lower, forwardmost portion of the cushion 5. The inlet aperture 25 is larger than the inlet opening 13 in the frame 3. The inlet aperture 25 may be non-circular, may be taller than it is wide, and in this embodiment comprise a substantially planar base and inwardly inclined sides.
The inlet aperture 25 is defined in this example by a relatively rigid ring 37 that comprises an integral part of, or is a separate component which is secured to the distal non-face contacting portion 29 of the cushion 5, for example via adhesive or overmoulding or the like. The rigid ring 37 may be a separate component formed of a material which is more rigid than the relatively soft cushion 5. The rigid ring may comprise a thickened or reinforced part of the cushion 5, formed from the same material as the cushion 5.
The rigid ring 37 may be provided with connecting formations 39 configured to allow the rigid ring 37 to be connected to the inlet connector 7.
The rigid ring 3 may be made from a plastics material comprising, solely or in combination:
The inlet connector 7, which can best be seen in
As will be described in embodiments below, the inlet connector 7 may be:
With reference to
In this embodiment the inlet connector 7 comprises:
The inlet connector 7 has a base and inclined sides, when viewed from the front. The outlet boss 45 matches the size and shape of the rigid ring 37 of the cushion 5. The inlet connector 7 comprises an inclined, forward wall 63 that extends between the outlet boss 45 and inlet boss 47, as can be seen in
Referring additionally to
The cushion 5 is removably mounted on the frame 3. In this embodiment, the cushion 5 is mounted on the frame 3 via a connection between the central portion 11 of the frame 3, and the distal non-face contacting portion 29 of the cushion 5. The connection is provided by the rigid ring 37 of the cushion 5 being connected (permanently or removably) to the outlet boss 45 of the inlet connector 7, and by the inlet boss 47 of the inlet connector 7 being connected to the inlet opening 13 of the frame 3, as described above.
In this embodiment the cushion 5 is removably mounted on the frame 3 solely by the connection between the distal non-face contacting portion 29 of the cushion 5 and the central portion 11 of the frame 3. The remainder of the cushion 5 is not connected to the remainder of the frame 3. The cushion 5 may therefore be considered to be cantilevered to the frame 3, with the fulcrum of the cantilever being the connection at the central portion 11 of the frame 3, with the remainder of the cushion 5 being free to move relative to the frame 3.
However, the reminder of the frame 3 that is not connected to the cushion 5, namely the lateral arms 15, lower and upper pairs of headgear connectors 17, 19, and the upper frame portion 25, support the cushion 5, and in particular resist the cushion 5 deflecting or inflating outwardly. This is achieved by the remainder of the frame 3 overlaying the cushion 5, and in particular overlaying the side wall 31 and upper portion of the cushion 5, below the rolling bridge portion 33.
This configuration enables the mask assembly 1 to be relatively flexible in a lateral direction. In particular the lower centre of the mask assembly, including the central portion of frame 11, is relatively inflexible, but the lateral regions and upper centre of the mask assembly 1, including the lateral arms 15 and upper frame portion 25, are relatively flexible, enabling the lateral regions of the mask assembly 1 to be relatively easily elastically deformed when side sleeping for example.
Portions of the cushion 5 may be recessed so as to receive, partially receive or partially engage portions of the frame 3. For example, the upper portion of the cushion 5, below the rolling bridge portion 33, comprises elongate recess 62 which extends laterally across the upper portion of the cushion 5, and in which the upper portion 25 of the frame 3 is received. The side walls of the recess 62 engage the margins of the upper portion 25 of the frame 3. Likewise, the side wall 31 of the cushion 5 comprises generally vertically extending side recesses 64 that engage the lower and/or upper headgear connectors 17, 19 of the frame 3.
The frame 3 substantially overlays the cushion 5. However, the frame comprises frame portions that are relatively thin, in particular the lateral arms 15 and the upper frame portion 25. Consequently, the frame 3 defines a relatively large frame aperture 20 through which the cushion 5 is exposed, and in particular through which the non-face contacting portion 29 and the side wall 31 are exposed. The frame aperture 20 forms a window, through which the cushion 5 is exposed.
The frame aperture 20 corresponds to the transparent part 32 of the cushion 5 such that the transparent part 32 of the cushion is exposed via the frame aperture 20. This enables the inside of the cushion 5, and therefore part of the user's face, especially the nose, to be seen from outside the mask assembly 1, when the mask assembly 1 is worn by the user and in use. This can have the effect of significantly reducing the visual impact of the mask assembly 1 when worn, increasing compliance of use by the user, and/or minimising any psychologically adverse effect of having to wear such a mask assembly 1.
As can best be seen in
With reference to
Referring to
In particular the frame 3 is configured to be relatively laterally resiliently deformable (that is relatively flexible across the user's face), but to be relatively non-deformable in a front to back direction (that is relatively rigid in a direction into the user's face).
The frame 3 is configured to do this by:
For example, with reference to
With reference to
Referring to
Referring to
The finger grips 81 are below the centre of the mask assembly 1 when viewed from the front, above the inlet opening 13 in the frame, and adjacent the inlet connector 7, in particular adjacent the vent holes 49 and the diffuser 59.
In the embodiment of
Referring to
An upper portion of the cushion 5 comprises a rolling bridge portion 33 which is pivotable relative to a lower portion 35 of the cushion 5, between a rest position in which the rolling bridge portion 33 is relatively rearward, to an in use position in which the rolling bridge portion 33 pivots forwardly such that part of the rolling bridge portion 33 buckles to provide a roll of material that extends over the mask frame 3. The rolling bridge portion 33 pivots about a pivot axis 33A.
As shown in
As the rolling bridge 33 of the cushion 5 is displaced about the pivot axis 33A, the roll increases in size. In other words, as the first boundary 94 initially moves toward the second boundary 96, a roll is formed in the cushion 5. As the first boundary 94 continues to move toward the second boundary 96, the roll continues to increase in size. Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, the roll defined in the rolling bridge 33 starts at nothing and progressively increases during displacement. Preferably, the rolling between the first boundary 94 and the second boundary 96 creates a single bend or inflection between the first boundary 94 and the second boundary 96. The single bend results in legs approaching the bend location that increase in size as the first boundary 94 moves toward the second boundary 96. In other words, the rolling created by movement of the first boundary 94 toward the second boundary 96 preferably does not result in a fan-folding appearance such as a pleated configuration.
The rolling bridge 33 is configured to move forwardly from a rest condition where the rolling bridge 33 is not pivoted about pivot axis 33A, as shown in
Referring to
Referring to
When the cushion 5 is mounted on the frame 3, the lateral arms 15 may be spaced away from the sides of the cushion 5 so that there is a gap or clearance therebetween.
Referring now to
In the embodiment shown in the figures the lower guide surface 103 comprises an arcuate top surface of the lateral arms 15. The top surface may be rounded or planar. The upper guide surface 105 comprises an arcuate underside of the enlarged region 19A of the frame 3.
Referring now to
The diffuser 59 may be removably or permanently mounted on the inlet connector 7 via a diffuser frame 61 to which the diffuser material 59 is mounted, for example via adhesive, overmoulding, hot welding or the like. The diffuser frame 61 may be removably mounted onto the inlet connector 7 via connection formations 61A on one or both of the frame 61 and inlet connector 7. The diffuser frame 61 may alternatively be permanently or removably mounted on the central portion 11 of the frame 3. When removably mounted, the diffuser frame 61 may be provided with an outwardly protruding finger tab 61B to facilitate the user applying a force to the diffuser frame 61 to remove the diffuser frame 61 from the mask assembly 1.
Additionally or alternatively, a cut-out may be provided on the diffuser frame 61 or the forward wall 62 of the inlet connector 7, to create a touch point for a user's finger.
The inner margins of the wings 67 of frame 3 between them define a recess 67A in which the diffuser frame 61 is received. The margins of the recess 67A are substantially straight and inwardly inclined, and facilitate correct alignment of the diffuser frame 61 with the frame 3, and alignment of any connection formations 61A.
The connection formations 61A may comprise a tab at a lower margin of the diffuser frame 61 that is inserted into a recess at the bottom or recess 67A. The diffuser frame 61 can be pivoted forwardly via engagement of the tab with the recess, such that an upper part of the diffuser frame 61 clips onto, or engages with, the inlet connector 7 above the array of vent holes 49 via one or more further connections formations 61A.
When the diffuser frame 61 is mounted in the recess 67A, a space 67B may be provided between the margins of the diffuser frame 61 and the recess 67A. Space 67B therefore comprises a channel, for example approximately 0.5 mm wide around the perimeter of the diffuser frame 61, which provides a small tolerance to the fit of the diffuser frame 61 in the recess 67A.
As can be seen in
As can be seen in
Referring now to
In this embodiment the valve member 55 is movably mounted adjacent the inlet boss 47, at a forward part of the inlet connector 7. The valve member 55 pivots upwardly and forwardly towards the forward wall 53, away from the outlet boss 45. The valve member 55 is movable between a closed position on which the valve member 55 closes the valve opening 57, and an open position in which the valve member 55 opens the opening (instead closing the passage through the inlet boss 47). When in the closed position, because the valve member 55 pivots to a position substantially parallel with the forward wall 63 of the inlet connector, the valve member 55 is out of the inlet flow path through the inlet connector 7, between the inlet boss 47 and outlet boss 45. This allows the outlet opening defined by outlet boss 45 to be relatively large, and to be positioned relative to inlet boss 47 such that the inlet flow path through the inlet connector 7 is substantially straight. Thus, flow path can be seen via the arrows in
Further, the positioning of the anti-asphyxia valve 53 in this way, also enables the inlet connector 7 to be relatively small and discrete, and to occupy a relatively small proportion of the frontal area of the mask assembly 1. This minimises the visual impact of the inlet connector 7, vents holes 49, and the anti-asphyxia valve 53, and enables a relatively large frame aperture 20 to be provided. Having a multi-function inlet connector 7 further facilitates providing these benefits.
Such an inlet connector 7 is also relatively compact when viewed from the side or front, in a vertical direction, i.e. the inlet connector 7 extends a smaller distance below the cushion 5. The entre mask assembly 1 can therefore be more compact in a vertical direction.
In this embodiment the central axis through the inlet boss 47, and frame inlet opening 13 is substantially perpendicular to the axes through the vent holes 49. In other words, the direction of the inlet gases flow is substantially perpendicular to the direction of the bias vent flow, as indicated by the arrows in
Referring to
The inlet connector 7 may be a separate component, or could be integrally formed with the frame 3.
The diffuser 59 may be mounted on, or integrally formed with, the frame 3, or the inlet connector 7.
In the above embodiments, the lateral arms 15 are integrally formed with, and part of, the frame 3. Referring now to
Referring now to
A comparison between the angle of the conduit 9 between the current mask assembly 1 and a prior art mask assembly 121 can be seen in
When viewed from the front, the maximum vertical dimension of the frame 3 is less than the maximum vertical dimension of the cushion 5. In particular the rolling bridge portion 33 of the cushion 5 projects above the uppermost part of the frame 3.
When viewed from the front the maximum lateral dimension of the frame 3 is substantially the same as the maximum lateral dimension of the cushion. The outer margin of the lower most headgear connectors 17 is substantially aligned with the outer margin of the side wall 31 of the cushion 5.
When viewed from the front, the shape of the outer periphery of the frame 3 substantially matches the shape of the outer periphery of the cushion 5. In this embodiment, the cushion and frame comprise a substantially planar base and inwardly inclined sides. The lower part of the mask assembly 1 is relatively wide, the sides of the mask assembly 1 are inwardly inclined towards a relatively narrow apex portion.
When viewed from the front, the outer periphery of the frame 3 is substantially within the outer periphery of the cushion 5.
When viewed from the side, the outer periphery of the lateral arms 15 and upper frame portion 25 are within the outer periphery of the cushion 5.
The ratio of the height of the inlet connector 7 to the height of the frame 3 may be between 0.5 to 0.75, and is preferably approximately 0.67.
The ratio of the width of the central portion 13 of the frame 3 to the width of the frame 3 may be between 0.45 and 0.65, and is preferably approximately 0.57.
With reference to
Referring initially to
The frame 3 may be configured such that the maximum lateral deformation of the frame 3 is equal to the difference between D1 and D2, that is, the frame 3 can deform sufficiently that the lower headgear connectors 17 can move to a position aligned with the outer margin of the lower portion 13 of the frame 3.
The frame 3 may be configured to be able to resiliently deform in a lateral direction from a resting condition, to a deformed condition in which the frame width:
The frame 3 may be configured such that the maximum lateral deformation of the frame is substantially equal to D1, that is, the frame 3 can deform sufficiently that the lower headgear connectors 17 can move to a position aligned with the centre of the lower portion 13 of the frame 3, that is, aligned with the axis 13A.
In embodiments in accordance with this disclosure, D1 may be between 60-140 mm, 60-96 mm, 60-100 mm, 60-110 mm, 70-100 mm, 80-110 mm, 90-100 mm, less than 110 mm or less than 140 mm.
In embodiments in accordance with this disclosure, D2 may be between 30-70 mm, 40-70 mm, 40-55 mm, 40-60 mm, 50-70 mm, less than 60 mm, or less than 70 mm.
In embodiments in accordance with this disclosure, D3 may be between 30-80 mm, 30-50 mm, 35-50 mm, 40-50 mm, 40-60 mm, 40-80 mm, less than 50 mm, less than 60 mm, or less than 80 mm.
With reference to
With reference to
a) angle of elongate element of upper headgear connector 19 relative to angle of mounting post of lower headgear connector 17, when viewed from the side: 45°;
b) angle of upper margin of frame 3 relative to the mounting post of lower headgear connectors 17, when viewed from the side: 60°.
With reference to
With reference to
The arms 15 are significantly widened so that the distal end of each arm 15 extends to a position adjacent both the lower and the upper headgear connectors 17, 19. The upper margin of each arm 15 is inclined upwardly from the frame opening 13 and terminates adjacent upper headgear connector 19. The lower margin of each arm 15 extends as per earlier embodiments to the lower end of lower headgear connector 17.
The upper portion 25 is also significantly wider than in earlier embodiments, such that the lower forward margin of the upper portion 25 is arcuate and defines the upper margin of the opening in which inlet connector 7 is received. The lower forward margin of the upper portion 25 is in contact with and engages the upper margin of the inlet connector 7. In this embodiment the frame 2 does not comprise window 20, instead comprising a trapezoidal opening 120 configured to receive and engage with the inlet connector 7.
With reference to
Each headgear clip 151 comprises an extension configured to support the side wall 31 of the cushion 5 to assist in reducing or preventing cushion blow out.
Each headgear clip 151 comprises an elongate body 153 one end of which comprises a slot 155 to receive the lower headgear strap 21, and the other end of which comprises a hook 157 to receive the post of the lower headgear connector 17. Each headgear clip 151 further comprises a pair of upper and lower extensions 159, 161 that extend away from the body 153. The extensions 159, 161 in this example are each shaped to match the shape of the side wall 31 of the cushion 5, and each comprise a support surface 159A, 161A against which the cushion side wall 31 can rest. Each support surface 159A, 161A limits lateral expansion of the cushion side wall 31, to help resist cushion blow out.
The lower extension 159 curves downwardly and inwardly to match the shape of a lower portion of the cushion side wall 31, the distal end of the lower extension 159 terminating below the lateral frame arm 15. The upper extension 161 curves upwardly and inwardly to match the shape of a side portion of the cushion side wall 31, the distal end of the upper extension 161 terminating adjacent upper headgear strap 23 and adjacent upper headgear connector 19.
With reference to
The frame elements 25A, 25B may be configured to be fixed in spaced apart relationship relative to frame 3. The spacing of the frame elements 25A, 25B, and the provision of more than one frame element 25A, 25B, can provide additional support to the cushion 5. This may help pull the cushion 5 towards the face, rather than pulling cushion 5 upwardly.
The frame elements 25A, 25B may configured such that the space between the frame elements 25A, 25B can be adjusted to adjust the support provided to the cushion 5 by the frame elements 25A, 25B. The spacing may be adjusted, for example, between a closed position in which the frame elements 25A, 25B are relatively close together, for example with reference to
With additional reference to
In another example, the lower frame element 25B may be fixed relative to frame 3, with upper frame element 25A being movable. In a further example, both frame elements 25A, 25B may be movable relative to frame 3.
With reference to
Furthermore, when the frame 3 is experiencing a horizontal compressive force (for example as shown in
With reference to
With reference to
With reference to
The frame 3 in this embodiment may therefore be narrower than the frame 3 of earlier embodiments. With reference to
The frame 3 of this embodiment comprises lateral arms 15 which define a distance between them which is less than the corresponding dimension of the cushion 5. In particular the distance between the cushion engaging surfaces of the lateral arms 15 is less than the distance between the side walls 31 of the cushion 5. With reference to
With reference to
Referring to
In the current embodiment, with reference to
In the modified embodiment, as described above with reference to
Referring to
Referring to
Referring to
With reference to
With reference to
With reference to
Mask assemblies can be cleaned regularly by the patient. Some disassembly of the mask assembly may be required for this process.
It may be advantageous to separate the cushion 5 for individual cleaning. The cushion 5 may require more frequent cleaning than other components of the mask assembly. At least some of the above described embodiments allow for the cushion 5 to be disconnected independently from the remainder of the mask assembly, to enable this.
It may be advantageous to separate the headgear for individual cleaning. It may be advantageous to be able to remove the headgear without altering the strap connections with the mask frame 3, such that re-sizing is not required when next donning the headgear. In some embodiments, the upper headgear straps 23 are fastened around the frame 3, for example as shown in
The following embodiments are configured to provide the ability to selectively remove one or more components of the mask assembly, such as the headgear and/or frame 3, without disassembly of other components.
Referring to
In this embodiment the central portion 11 of the frame 3 comprises a frame clip 14 that is configured to mount the frame 3 onto the inlet 7. The central portion 11 is therefore a central connection portion of the frame 3. The opening 13 in the central connection portion of the frame 3 is defined by the internal walls of the frame clip 14, the central connection portion circumscribing the inlet opening. In this embodiment the frame clip 14 comprises front 14a and side 14b walls that extends around the front and sides of the opening 13. The side walls 14b terminate towards the rear to leave a mouth 14c at the rear of the opening 13, defined between opposed spaced apart ends 14d of the side walls 14b of the frame clip 14, such that the opening 13 is not bound completely by the frame clip 14.
When viewed from above, along the central axis of the opening 13, the frame clip 14 is omega shaped. The mouth 14d allows the side walls 14b of the frame clip 14 to resiliently deform during assembly of the inlet connector 7 on the frame 3. The frame clip 14 resiliently expands during mounting of the mask frame 3 onto the remainder of the mask assembly, and then contracts around the inlet connector 7 when the inlet connector 7, or at least part of the inlet boss 47, is fully received in the opening 13. The frame 3 is not connected to the inlet connector 7 and cushion 5 at any other location, other than at the frame clip 14, namely at the central connection portion. In use, the headgear provides tension through the frame 5, encouraging the clip 14 to remain secured to the inlet connector 7. Consequently, the frame 3 can be removed, as a single component, from the remainder of the mask assembly, by expanding the frame clip 14, increasing the size of the opening 13, such that the frame clip 14 disengages the inlet connector 7.
The frame clip 14 may comprise one or more anti-rotation and/or guide surfaces configured to resist rotation of the frame 3 relative to the mask assembly. For example, the front and/or side walls 14a, 14b of the frame clip 14 may be straight or flat, or comprise one or more straight or flat portions. This may help resist or prevent relative rotation between the mask frame 3 and the inlet connector 7. The frame clip 14 in this embodiment, comprises at least one non-circular wall portion 14e that engages the inlet connector 7. In this embodiment the opening 13 comprises a plurality of substantially straight side wall portions 14e of the side walls 14b that engage with corresponding straight portions of the inlet connector 7.
Referring to
With further reference to
Referring to
Referring to
In this embodiment the frame clip 14 is similar to the frame clip 14 described with reference to
The conduit connector cuff 9a may comprise a frame location feature configured to locate and/or guide the frame 3 into the desired position on the conduit connector cuff 9a.
Referring to
The frame clip 14 extends away from the frame's lateral arms 15 to partially extend around the rear of conduit connector cuff 9a. The frame clip 14, at least at the sides, is laterally spaced from the remainder of the frame 3, in in particular from the lateral arms 15. The frame clip 14 is therefore decoupled from the remainder of the frame 3 in the sense that forces exerted onto the frame via the headgear are decoupled from the frame clip 14. This decoupling of forces assists in preventing unintentional disconnection of the frame 3 from the conduit connector cuff 9a in situations where the sides of the frame 3 are pushed forwards or away from each other, as this deformation is less likely to affect the connection at the frame clip 14.
Referring to
The internal walls of the frame clip 14 are shaped to resist or prevent relative rotation between the mask frame 3 and the inlet connector 7, and between the mask frame 3 and the conduit connector cuff 9a. In this embodiment the frame clip 14 comprises a plurality of substantially straight portions 14e of side walls 14b at the sides of the frame clip 14. The conduit connector cuff 9a comprises a corresponding plurality of substantially straight wall portions 9d. When the mask is connected to the conduit connector cuff 9a the wall portions 14e engage the wall portions 9d to resist relative rotation.
In this embodiment, the straight wall portions 14e of the frame clip 14 extend upwardly from the frame clip 14 and overlap with side portions 7a of the inlet connector 7. The wall portions 14e extend to some extent around the rear of the inlet connector 7 such that the wall portions 14e connect with the inlet connector 7. The frame 3 therefore engages the front, sides, and some of the rear of the inlet connector 7 and the conduit connector cuff 9a.
The conduit connector cuff 9a comprises an end stop 9e against which the frame clip 14 abuts when the frame 3 is fully connected to the conduit connector cuff 9a, to limit by how much the mask frame 3 can be pushed onto the conduit connector cuff 9a.
In this embodiment the conduit connector cuff 9a comprises a single, lower circumferential flange 9b, generally upward movement of the frame 3 being limited by the lowermost surface of the inlet connector 7. Recess 9c is therefore defined between the lower flange 9b and the lowermost surface of the inlet connector 7.
Referring now to
In this embodiment the recess 9c on the conduit connector cuff 9a is deeper than in the
With further reference to
With further reference to
In the embodiments of
Referring now to
In this embodiment the side portions 9e of the recess 9c in the conduit connector cuff 9a are upwardly inclined towards the lower part of the inlet connector 7. The inclined side portions 9e lead to upwardly inclined side portions 7E on the inlet connector 7. The side portions 9e, 7e together define smooth, upwardly inclined guide surfaces that guide the frame clip 14 into the desired position to connect with the inlet connector 7 and the conduit connector cuff 9a, as the mask frame 3 is pushed onto these components from the front of the mask assembly.
In this embodiment, the female engagement feature 193 is provided on the inlet connector 7 rather than on the inlet conduit connector 9a. The engagement features 193, 195 help retain the frame 3 on the inlet connector 7, and help resist relative rotation between the frame 3 and the inlet connector 7, once the frame 3 has been fully pushed onto the inlet connector 7.
As can best be seen in
The ends 14d of frame clip 14 define fingers that project from the ends of the frame clip 14 radially inwardly towards one another. The fingers 14d are configured to engage the rear of the inlet connector 7, to retain the frame clip 14 on the inlet connector 7, as shown in
Referring now to
In this embodiment, the lower part of the inlet connector 7 comprises a skirt 7e that extends downwardly over the front and sides of the conduit connector cuff 9a. The skirt 7e comprises a recess 7f configured to received and engage with the frame clip 14 of the mask frame 3, and a guide flange 7g that projects outwardly from the skirt 7e below the recess 7f. The sides of the guide flange 7g are inclined upwardly from front to rear, to guide the mask frame 3 upwardly as it is pushed onto the inlet connector 7. The inclined recess 7f and inclined flange 7g together provide smooth uninterrupted surfaces for the frame clip 14 to slide over and engage with. Additionally, any forward rotation of the mask frame 3 will be less likely to disconnect the conduit connector cuff 9a unintentionally.
The conduit connector cuff 9a comprises a rear release tab 9f that projects from a rear part of the cuff 9a, behind the inlet connector 7. This enables the user to grip and release the conduit 9 from the mask assembly, by pivoting the rear of the conduit connector cuff 9a away from the inlet connector 7.
The inlet connector 7 further comprises recessed hand grip portions 7b either side of the diffuser, and above the skirt 7e.
In this embodiment the engagement features 193, 195 are located at the front and rear of the frame clip 14 and conduit connector cuff 9a, so that the sides of the frame clip 14 and cuff 9a are smooth and therefore allow less resistance to pushing of the frame clip 14 onto the cuff 9a,
Similar to the frame clip 14 of
Referring now to
In this embodiment, the frame clip 14 of the mask frame 3 that fits into and connects with the inlet connector recess 7F clips onto the inlet connector 7.
The frame clip 14 comprises front and side walls 14a, 14b, that extend partially around the rear of the opening 13, leaving a mouth 14c at the rear that initially receives the inlet connector 7. As the mask frame 3 is further pushed onto the inlet connector 7 from the front, the frame clip 14 resiliently deforms, to allow the inlet connector 7 to be fully received in, and to engage with, the frame clip 14.
In this embodiment, the frame clip ends 14d comprise fingers that project from the ends of the frame clip 14 radially outwardly away from the side walls 14b. The fingers 14d are therefore angled away from each other when viewed along opening axis 13a, to comprise guide surfaces that together define mouth 14c. At the start of assembly, the guide surfaces of the fingers 14d engage the inlet connector 7. Further movement of the mask frame 3 towards the inlet connector 7 further engages the fingers 14d which are forced to deform outwardly to increase the size of the mouth 14c to allow the inlet connector 7 to be fully received in the frame clip 14. When so received, the fingers 14d snap back to reduce the size of the mouth, engage the inlet connector 7 and retain the inlet connector 7 on the mask frame 3.
The fingers 14d are spaced apart from the frame 3 and in particular are spaced from the lateral arms of the frame 3. The fingers 14d are therefore decoupled from the lateral arms 15 of the frame 3, such that the lateral arms 15 of the frame 3 can be moved (for example under headgear tension) without opening and disconnecting the frame clip 14 from the inlet connector 7.
Referring to
Referring to
Referring now to
With reference to
With particular reference to
With particular reference to
Referring now to
In this embodiment, the lower part of the inlet connector 7 comprises the mounting recess 7F which is partly defined by the lower flange 7g at the sides and rear of the inlet connector 7. The lower flange 7g does not extend around the front of the inlet connector 7, leaving a gap 7h. In this embodiment, the conduit connector cuff 9a release tab 9e is located at the front of the cuff 9a and is dimensioned to be received in the gap 7h and when so received to define the front of the recess 7f. With reference to
As can best be seen in
The shape of the interior walls 14a, 14b of the frame clip 14 closely correspond to the exterior profile, when viewed from above, of the inlet connector 7. This combined with the relatively short fingers 14d, provides the mask assembly with a relatively smooth, clean look, with minimal regions in the connection between the frame 3 and inlet connector 7 that are angular or project significantly outwardly.
Referring to
Referring to
Referring to
Referring now to
The frame clip 14 is reversed from that described with reference to
Referring now to
The frame clip 14 comprises a pair of opposed side walls 14b, but no front or rear portion. The frame clip 14 thus comprises a mouth 14c at the front and rear, such that the frame clip 14 only partially defines the opening 13. Each side wall 14b extends from a forward end of a respective lateral frame arm 15.
With further reference to
It is envisaged that the mask frame 3, cushion 5, and inlet connector can be configured to be connected together such that the mask frame 3 is sandwiched between the cushion 5 and the inlet connector 7.
With reference to
In the example of
In the example of
In the example of
In the example of
In these embodiments, the cushion 5 must be removed before disconnecting the frame 3 and headgear.
In these embodiments the frame 3 is not exposed to, and does not form part of, the flow path of breathable gases into the mask assembly. This provides an advantage that the frame 3 requires less cleaning than if the frame 3 were exposed to the flow path.
Referring now to
Referring to
It may be desirable to hold the frame 3 when disconnecting the cushion 5. In such a situation, it would be undesirable for the frame 3 to disconnect from the inlet connector 7 at the same time. It can therefore be desirable to ensure the frame 3 connects to the inlet connector 7 relatively securely, such that the connection resists disconnection.
Referring to
Referring to
In the embodiment of
Referring to
Referring to
Referring now to
Referring to
Referring to
Referring to
Referring to
In embodiments of this disclosure the mask assembly comprises a cushion 5 with a proximal face contacting portion, a distal inlet aperture, and a side wall between the proximal face contacting portion and the distal inlet aperture. A frame 3 is provided comprising at least one headgear connector and an inlet opening 13 configured to connect to a source of pressurised gas. The cushion 5 is mounted on the frame 3. For example, the distal inlet aperture of the cushion 5 may be removably mounted to the central connection portion of the frame 3 adjacent the inlet opening 13 of the frame 3. The frame 3 is configured to overlap an exterior portion of the side wall of the cushion 5.
In embodiments of this disclosure the mask assembly may comprise a cushion 5 with a proximal face contacting portion, a distal inlet aperture, and a side wall between the proximal face contacting portion and the distal inlet aperture, and a frame 3 comprising an inlet opening 13 configured to connect to a source of pressurised gas. The distal inlet aperture of the cushion 5 is removably connected to the central connection portion of the frame 3. The frame 3 comprises a pair of upper and a pair of lower headgear connectors. The cushion 5 comprises an uppermost portion, both pairs of upper and lower headgear connectors being below the cushion uppermost portion.
The frame 3 comprises a lower, central portion 11 which comprises a central connection portion configured to be removably connected to the cushion 5.
In embodiments of this disclosure the mask assembly 1 provides advantages when side sleeping. In particular, the mask assembly 1 is configured such that the lateral part of the mask assembly 1 that is nearest the bed or pillow can readily deform, whilst the lateral part of the mask assembly 1 furthest from the bed or pillow does not deform. The lateral deformation accommodates movement of the user's head, and to accommodates lateral forces applied by the bed or pillow to the lateral part of the mask assembly.
The deformation of the lateral part of the mask assembly 1 is preferably configured as elastic deformation, such that the lateral part of the mask assembly 1 reverts to its original shape once the deformation forces are removed. The cushion 5, plus the lateral arms 15 and upper frame portion 25 of the frame 3 can all be configured to elastically deform.
The frame 3, or at least portions thereof, can be configured to add only a relatively small amount of resistance to lateral deformation of the cushion 5, when lateral forces are applied to the mask assembly 1. The lateral arms 15 and upper frame portion 25 of the frame 3 can be so configured.
The frame 3 may be configured to deform under lateral forces to the extent that, when in a deformed condition:
The mask assembly 1 can be provided in a range of sizes, for example small, medium and large.
Certain terminology may be used in the description for the purpose of reference only, and thus are not intended to be limiting. For example, terms such as “above” and “below” refer to directions in the drawings to which reference is made. Terms such as “front,” “back,” “left,” “right,” “rear,” and “side” describe the orientation and/or location of portions of the components or elements within a consistent but arbitrary frame of reference which is made clear by reference to the text and the associated drawings describing the components or elements under discussion. For example, as the context may dictate, the terms “front” and/or forward can be used relative to components described herein positioned relatively or entirely distal to the user's face when the mask assembly as described herein is worn by the user. As the context may dictate, the terms “rear” and/or “back” can be used relative to components described herein positioned relatively or entirely proximal to the user's face and/or components that are forward or at the front of the mask assembly when the mask assembly as described herein is worn by the user. Moreover, terms such as “first,” “second,” “third,” and so on may be used to describe separate components. Such terminology may include the words specifically mentioned above, derivatives thereof, and words of similar import.
Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words “comprise”, “comprising”, and the like, are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense, that is to say, in the sense of “including, but not limited to”. Conditional language used herein, such as, among others, “can,” “could,” “might,” “may,” “e.g.,” and the like, unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain embodiments include, while other embodiments do not include, certain features, elements and/or states. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements and/or states are in any way required for one or more embodiments or that one or more embodiments necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without author input or prompting, whether these features, elements and/or states are included or are to be performed in any particular embodiment.
The term “plurality” refers to two or more of an item. Recitations of quantities, dimensions, sizes, formulations, parameters, shapes and other characteristics should be construed as if the term “about” or “approximately” precedes the quantity, dimension, size, formulation, parameter, shape or other characteristic. The terms “about” or “approximately” mean that quantities, dimensions, sizes, formulations, parameters, shapes and other characteristics need not be exact, but may be approximated and/or larger or smaller, as desired, reflecting acceptable tolerances, conversion factors, rounding off, measurement error and the like and other factors known to those of skill in the art. Recitations of quantities, dimensions, sizes, formulations, parameters, shapes and other characteristics should also be construed as if the term “substantially” precedes the quantity, dimension, size, formulation, parameter, shape or other characteristic. The terms “approximately,” “about,” and “substantially” as used herein represent an amount close to the stated amount that still performs a desired function or achieves a desired result. For example, in some embodiments, as the context may dictate, the terms “approximately”, “about”, and “substantially” may refer to an amount that is within less than or equal to 10% of the stated amount. The term “generally” as used herein represents a value, amount, or characteristic that predominantly includes, or tends toward, a particular value, amount, or characteristic. For example, as the context may dictate, the term “generally linear” can mean something that departs from exactly parallel by less than or equal to 15°.
Numerical data may be expressed or presented herein in a range format. It is to be understood that such a range format is used merely for convenience and brevity and thus should be interpreted flexibly to include not only the numerical values explicitly recited as the limits of the range, but also interpreted to include all of the individual numerical values or sub-ranges encompassed within that range as if each numerical value and sub-range is explicitly recited. As an illustration, a numerical range of “1 to 5” should be interpreted to include not only the explicitly recited values of about 1 to about 5, but should also be interpreted to also include individual values and sub-ranges within the indicated range. Thus, included in this numerical range are individual values such as 2, 3 and 4 and sub-ranges such as “1 to 3,” “2 to 4” and “3 to 5,” etc. This same principle applies to ranges reciting only one numerical value (e.g., “greater than 1”) and should apply regardless of the breadth of the range or the characteristics being described.
Any dimensions included in this disclosure are example dimensions of one or more components of a mask assembly in accordance with this disclosure, and are in mm.
A plurality of items may be presented in a common list for convenience. However, these lists should be construed as though each member of the list is individually identified as a separate and unique member. Thus, no individual member of such list should be construed as a de facto equivalent of any other member of the same list solely based on their presentation in a common group without indications to the contrary. Furthermore, where the terms “and” and “or” are used in conjunction with a list of items, they are to be interpreted broadly, in that any one or more of the listed items may be used alone or in combination with other listed items. The term “alternatively” refers to selection of one of two or more alternatives, and is not intended to limit the selection to only those listed alternatives or to only one of the listed alternatives at a time, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.
Reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that that prior art forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavour in any country in the world.
The disclosure may also be said broadly to consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the specification of the application, individually or collectively, in any or all combinations of two or more of said parts, elements or features.
Where, in the foregoing description reference has been made to integers or components having known equivalents thereof, those integers are herein incorporated as if individually set forth.
It should be noted that various changes and modifications to the presently preferred embodiments described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure and without diminishing its attendant advantages. For instance, various components may be repositioned as desired. It is therefore intended that such changes and modifications be included within the scope of the disclosure. Moreover, not all of the features, aspects and advantages are necessarily required to practice the present disclosure. Accordingly, the scope of the present disclosure is intended to be defined only by the claims that follow.
This application claims priority from provisional applications U.S. 63/202,988 filed 2 Jul. 2021, U.S. 63/218,431 filed 5 Jul. 2021, and U.S. 63/293,305 filed 23 Dec. 2021, the entire contents of each of which are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety.
| Filing Document | Filing Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/NZ2022/050086 | 7/1/2022 | WO |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 63202988 | Jul 2021 | US | |
| 63218431 | Jul 2021 | US | |
| 63293305 | Dec 2021 | US |
