Patent Application
20240358955
The present technology relates to one or more of the detection, diagnosis, treatment, prevention and amelioration of respiratory-related disorders. In particular, the present technology relates to medical devices or apparatus, and their use. Such devices may include an interface for directing a treatment to a patient respiratory system.
The respiratory system of the body facilitates gas exchange. The nose and mouth form the entrance to the airways of a patient.
The airways consist of a series of branching tubes, which become narrower, shorter and more numerous as they penetrate deeper into the lung. The prime function of the lung is gas exchange, allowing oxygen to move from the air into the venous blood and carbon dioxide to move out. The trachea divides into right and left main bronchi, which further divide eventually into terminal bronchioles. The bronchi make up the conducting airways, and do not take part in gas exchange. Further divisions of the airways lead to the respiratory bronchioles, and eventually to the alveoli. The alveolated region of the lung is where the gas exchange takes place, and is referred to as the respiratory zone. See “Respiratory Physiology”, by John B. West, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 9th edition published 2011.
A range of respiratory disorders exist.
Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA), a form of Sleep Disordered Breathing (SDB), is characterized by occlusion of the upper air passage during sleep. It results from a combination of an abnormally small upper airway and the normal loss of muscle tone in the region of the tongue, soft palate and posterior oropharyngeal wall during sleep. The condition causes the affected patient to stop breathing for periods typically of 30 to 120 seconds duration, sometimes 200 to 300 times per night. It often causes excessive daytime somnolence, and it may cause cardiovascular disease and brain damage. The syndrome is a common disorder, particularly in middle aged overweight males, although a person affected may have no awareness of the problem. See U.S. Pat. No. 4,944,310 (Sullivan).
Cheyne-Stokes Respiration (CSR) is a disorder of a patient's respiratory controller in which there are rhythmic alternating periods of waxing and waning ventilation, causing repetitive de-oxygenation and re-oxygenation of the arterial blood. It is possible that CSR is harmful because of the repetitive hypoxia. In some patients CSR is associated with repetitive arousal from sleep, which causes severe sleep disruption, increased sympathetic activity, and increased afterload. See U.S. Pat. No. 6,532,959 (Berthon-Jones).
Obesity Hyperventilation Syndrome (OHS) is defined as the combination of severe obesity and awake chronic hypercapnia, in the absence of other known causes for hypoventilation. Symptoms include dyspnea, morning headache and excessive daytime sleepiness.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) encompasses any of a group of lower airway diseases that have certain characteristics in common. These include increased resistance to air movement, extended expiratory phase of respiration, and loss of the normal elasticity of the lung. Examples of COPD are emphysema and chronic bronchitis. COPD is caused by chronic tobacco smoking (primary risk factor), occupational exposures, air pollution and genetic factors. Symptoms include: dyspnoea on exertion, chronic cough and sputum production.
Neuromuscular Disease (NMD) may encompass many diseases and ailments that impair the functioning of the muscles either directly via intrinsic muscle pathology, or indirectly via nerve pathology. Some NMD patients are characterised by progressive muscular impairment leading to loss of ambulation, being wheelchair-bound, swallowing difficulties, respiratory muscle weakness and, eventually, death from respiratory failure. Neuromuscular disorders can be divided into rapidly progressive and slowly progressive: (i) Rapidly progressive disorders: Characterised by muscle impairment that worsens over months and results in death within a few years (e.g. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) in teenagers); (ii) Variable or slowly progressive disorders: Characterised by muscle impairment that worsens over years and only mildly reduces life expectancy (e.g. Limb girdle, Facioscapulohumeral and Myotonic muscular dystrophy). Symptoms of respiratory failure in NMD include: increasing generalised weakness, dysphagia, dyspnoea on exertion and at rest, fatigue, sleepiness, morning headache, and difficulties with concentration and mood changes.
Chest wall disorders are a group of thoracic deformities that result in inefficient coupling between the respiratory muscles and the thoracic cage. The disorders are usually characterised by a restrictive defect and share the potential of long term hypercapnic respiratory failure. Scoliosis and/or kyphoscoliosis may cause severe respiratory failure. Symptoms of respiratory failure include: dyspnoea on exertion, peripheral oedema, orthopnoea, repeated chest infections, morning headaches, fatigue, poor sleep quality and loss of appetite.
Otherwise healthy individuals may take advantage of systems and devices to prevent respiratory disorders from arising.
Nasal Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy has been used to treat Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). The hypothesis is that continuous positive airway pressure acts as a pneumatic splint and may prevent upper airway occlusion by pushing the soft palate and tongue forward and away from the posterior oropharyngeal wall.
Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) provides ventilator support to a patient through the upper airways to assist the patient in taking a full breath and/or maintain adequate oxygen levels in the body by doing some or all of the work of breathing. The ventilator support is provided via a patient interface. NIV has been used to treat CSR, OHS, COPD, MD and Chest Wall disorders.
Invasive ventilation (IV) provides ventilatory support to patients that are no longer able to effectively breathe themselves and is provided using a tracheostomy tube.
Ventilators may control the timing and pressure of breaths pumped into the patient and monitor the breaths taken by the patient. The methods of control and monitoring patients typically include volume-cycled and pressure-cycled methods. The volume-cycled methods may include among others, Pressure-Regulated Volume Control (PRVC), Volume Ventilation (VV), and Volume Controlled Continuous Mandatory Ventilation (VC-CMV) techniques. The pressure-cycled methods may involve, among others, Assist Control (AC), Synchronized Intermittent Mandatory Ventilation (SIMV), Controlled Mechanical Ventilation (CMV), Pressure Support Ventilation (PSV), Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP), or Positive End Expiratory Pressure (PEEP) techniques.
One known device used for treating sleep disordered breathing is the S9 Sleep Therapy System, manufactured by ResMed. Ventilators such as the ResMed Stellar™ Series of Adult and Paediatric Ventilators may provide support for invasive and non-invasive non-dependent ventilation for a range of patients for treating a number of conditions such as but not limited to NMD, OHS and COPD.
The ResMed Elisée™ 150 ventilator and ResMed VS III™ ventilator may provide support for invasive and non-invasive dependent ventilation suitable for adult or paediatric patients for treating a number of conditions. These ventilators provide volumetric and barometric ventilation modes with a single or double limb circuit.
A system may comprise a PAP Device/ventilator, an air circuit, a humidifier, a patient interface, and data management.
A patient interface may be used to interface respiratory equipment to its user, for example by providing a flow of breathable gas. The flow of breathable gas may be provided via a mask to the nose and/or mouth, a tube to the mouth or a tracheostomy tube to the trachea of the user. Depending upon the therapy to be applied, the patient interface may form a seal, e.g. with a face region of the patient, to facilitate the delivery of gas at a pressure at sufficient variance with ambient pressure to effect therapy, e.g. a positive pressure of about 10 cm H2O. For other forms of therapy, such as the delivery of oxygen, the patient interface may not include a seal sufficient to facilitate delivery to the airways of a supply of gas at a positive pressure of about 10 cm H2O.
The design of a patient interface presents a number of challenges. The face has a complex three-dimensional shape. The size and shape of noses varies considerably between individuals. Since the head includes bone, cartilage and soft tissue, different regions of the face respond differently to mechanical forces. The jaw or mandible may move relative to other bones of the skull. The whole head may move during the course of a period of respiratory therapy.
As a consequence of these challenges, some masks suffer from being one or more of obtrusive, aesthetically undesirable, costly, poorly fitting, difficult to use, and uncomfortable especially when worn for long periods of time or when a patient is unfamiliar with a system. For example, masks designed solely for aviators, mask designed as part of personal protection equipment (e.g. filter masks), SCUBA masks, or for the administration of anaesthetics may be tolerable for their original application, but nevertheless be undesirably uncomfortable to be worn for extended periods of time, e.g. several hours. This is even more so if the mask is to be worn during sleep. An uncomfortable mask may impact on patient compliance.
Nasal CPAP therapy is highly effective to treat certain respiratory disorders, provided patients comply with therapy. If a mask is uncomfortable, or difficult to use a patient may not comply with therapy. Since it is often recommended that a patient regularly wash their mask, if a mask is not easily replaceable or difficult to clean (e.g. difficult to assemble or disassemble), patients may not replace or clean their mask and this may impact on patient compliance.
For these reasons, masks for delivery of nasal CPAP during sleep form a distinct field.
Patient interfaces may include a seal-forming portion.
A patient interface may be partly characterised according to the design intent of where the seal-forming portion is to engage with the face in use. In one form of patient interface, a seal-forming portion may comprise two sub-portions to engage with respective left and right nares. In one form of patient interface, a seal-forming portion may comprise a single element that surrounds both nares in use. Such single element may be designed to for example overlay an upper lip region and a nasal bridge region of a face. In one form of patient interface a seal-forming portion may comprise an element that surrounds a mouth region in use, e.g. by forming a seal on a lower lip region of a face. In one form of patient interface, a seal-forming portion may comprise a single element that surrounds both nares and a mouth region in use. These different types of patient interfaces may be known by a variety of names by their manufacturer including nasal masks, full-face masks, nasal pillows, nasal puffs and oro-nasal masks.
One type of seal-forming portion extends around the periphery of the patient interface, and is intended to seal against the user's face when force is applied to the patient interface with the seal-forming portion in confronting engagement with the user's face. The seal-forming portion may consist of an air or fluid filled cushion, or a moulded or formed surface of a resilient seal element made of an elastomer such as a rubber. With this type of seal-forming portion, if the fit is not adequate, there will be gaps between the seal-forming portion and the face, and additional force will be required to force the patient interface against the face in order to achieve a seal.
Another type of seal-forming portion incorporates a flap seal of thin material so positioned about the periphery of the mask so as to provide a self-sealing action against the face of the user when positive pressure is applied within the mask. Like the previous style of seal forming portion, if the match between the face and the mask is not good, additional force may be required to effect a seal, or the mask may leak. Furthermore, if the shape of the seal-forming portion does not match that of the patient, it may crease or buckle in use, giving rise to leaks.
Another type of seal-forming portion may comprise a friction-fit element, e.g. for insertion into a naris.
Another form of seal-forming portion may use adhesive to effect a seal. Some patients may find it inconvenient to constantly apply and remove an adhesive to their face.
A range of patient interface seal-forming portion technologies are disclosed in the following patent applications, assigned to ResMed Limited: WO 1998/004,310; WO 2006/074,513; WO 2010/135,785.
A seal-forming portion of a patient interface used for positive air pressure therapy is subject to the corresponding force of the air pressure to disrupt a seal. Thus a variety of techniques have been used to position the seal-forming portion, and to maintain it in sealing relation with the appropriate portion of the face.
One technique is the use of adhesives. See for example US Patent publication US 2010/0000534.
Another technique is the use of one or more straps and stabilising harnesses. Many such harnesses suffer from being one or more of ill-fitting, bulky, uncomfortable and awkward to use.
Some forms of patient interface systems may include a vent to allow the washout of exhaled carbon dioxide. Many such vents are noisy. Others may block in use and provide insufficient washout. Some vents may be disruptive of the sleep of a bed-partner 1100 of the patient 1000, e.g. through noise or focussed airflow.
ResMed Limited has developed a number of improved mask vent technologies. See WO 1998/034,665; WO 2000/078,381; U.S. Pat. No. 6,581,594; US Patent Application; US 2009/0050156; US Patent Application 2009/0044808.
Sound pressure values of a variety of objects are listed below
One form of nasal pillow is found in the Adam Circuit manufactured by Puritan Bennett. Another nasal pillow, or nasal puff is the subject of U.S. Pat. No. 4,782,832 (Trimble et al.), assigned to Puritan-Bennett Corporation.
ResMed Limited has manufactured the following products that incorporate nasal pillows: SWIFT nasal pillows mask, SWIFT II nasal pillows mask, SWIFT LT nasal pillows mask, SWIFT FX nasal pillows mask and LIBERTY full-face mask. The following patent applications, assigned to ResMed Limited, describe nasal pillows masks: International Patent Application WO2004/073,778 (describing amongst other things aspects of ResMed SWIFT nasal pillows), U.S. Patent Application 2009/0044808 (describing amongst other things aspects of ResMed SWIFT LT nasal pillows); International Patent Applications WO 2005/063,328 and WO 2006/130,903 (describing amongst other things aspects of ResMed LIBERTY full-face mask); International Patent Application WO 2009/052,560 (describing amongst other things aspects of ResMed SWIFT FX nasal pillows).
Examples of respiratory apparatuses include ResMed's S9 AutoSet™ PAP device and ResMed's Stellar™ 150 ventilator. PAP devices or ventilators typically comprise a flow generator, such as a motor-driven blower or a compressed gas reservoir, and are configured to provide a controlled supply of breathable gases (e.g., air) to the airway of a patient. In some cases, the flow of air or other breathable gases may be supplied to the airway of the patient at positive pressure may be supplied to the airway of a patient by a PAP device such as a motor-driven blower. The outlet of the blower PAP device or the ventilator is connected via a flexible delivery conduit an air circuit to a patient interface such as those described above.
Ventilators or PAP devices typically include a flow generator, an inlet filter, a patient interface, an air circuit delivery conduit connecting the flow generator to the patient interface, various sensors and a microprocessor-based controller. The patient interface may include a mask or a tracheostomy tube as described above. The flow generator may include a servo-controlled motor, volute and an impeller that forms a blower. In some cases a brake for the motor may be implemented to more rapidly reduce the speed of the blower so as to overcome the inertia of the motor and impeller. The braking can permit the blower to more rapidly achieve a lower pressure condition in time for synchronization with expiration despite the inertia. In some cases the flow generator may also include a valve capable of discharging generated air to atmosphere as a means for altering the pressure delivered to the patient as an alternative to motor speed control. The sensors measure, amongst other things, motor speed, mass flow rate and outlet pressure, such as with a pressure transducer or the like. The apparatus may optionally include a humidifier and/or heater elements in the path of the air delivery circuit. The controller may include data storage capacity with or without integrated data retrieval and display functions.
The present technology is directed towards providing medical devices used in the diagnosis, amelioration, treatment, or prevention of respiratory disorders having one or more of improved comfort, cost, efficacy, ease of use and manufacturability.
An aspect of the present technology relates to apparatus used in the treatment or prevention of a respiratory disorder.
Another aspect of the present technology may relate to methods used in the treatment or prevention of a respiratory disorder.
One form of the present technology involves an interface that directs a treatment, such as a positive pressure breathable gas, to a patient respiratory system.
Another aspect of one form of the present technology involves such an interface that directs a treatment to the nares of the patient respiratory system.
Another aspect of one form of the present technology is such an interface that directs a treatment to the nares and mouth of the patient respiratory system but maintaining a minimal facial contact profile so as to avoid contact or coverage of a majority of a nose of patient.
Another aspect of one form of the present technology is a patient interface that is moulded or otherwise constructed with a clearly defined perimeter shape which is intended to match the face profile of an intended wearer.
Another aspect of some forms of the present technology is a patient interface that employs a foam cushion. The foam may optionally be part of a cushion assembly that may further implement a flexible support clip. In some such cases, the flexible support clip can be configured with dimensions and material properties so as to both support the foam cushion and complement the foam cushion's compliance. Thus, a relatively thin foam cushion may provide compliance to account for the fine details on the user's face, while the flexible clip can account for the more coarse aspects of the facial structure. Such configuration may reduce the amount of foam required for a comfortable and efficient sealing of the mask. The reduced amount of foam may minimise the overall size of the mask, make it less obtrusive and improve its aesthetic appeal.
Another aspect of some forms of the present technology is a patient interface that is implemented as a mouth and nose mask with a substantially above the nose or under the nose seal configuration.
For example, a mask apparatus for a respiratory treatment may include a frame adapted to couple with a respiratory treatment apparatus so as to permit communication of a pressurized gas to a respiratory system of a patient from the respiratory treatment apparatus; and it may include a cushion adapted to couple with the frame, the cushion configured as a substantially under nose seal portion and a mouth seal portion, the under nose seal portion comprising a sub-nasal ridge formed as a semi-peripheral sealing boundary about both nares of the patient.
In some cases, the cushion may comprise a triangular ring having a common nasal and mouth aperture. The cushion may be foam. The cushion and the frame may form a common plenum chamber for sealing about the nares and mouth. The cushion may include a protrusion configured to ply adjacent to a nasal ala of the patient. The cushion may include left and right nasal ala protrusions.
In some versions, the mask apparatus may further include a cushion support clip configured to couple with the cushion and couple with the frame. The cushion support clip may include first and second opposing sides, wherein the clip is configured to couple with the cushion on the first opposing side and to couple with the frame on the second opposing side. The cushion support clip may include a nasal plateau region and a mouth periphery region. The nasal plateau region may be approximately perpendicular to the mouth periphery region.
The cushion support clip may include a bend region between the nasal plateau region and the mouth periphery region. The bend region may form an approximately nasolabial angle between the nasal plateau region and the mouth periphery region. The bend region may include a set of inwardly directing nasal protrusions. The nasal protrusions may be flexible.
In some versions, the cushion support clip may include first and second cushion support portions, the first and second cushion support portions may be configured to provide different flexibility characteristics. The first cushion support portion may be a nasal support region and the second cushion support portion may be a lateral mouth support region. The first cushion support portion may have a higher rigidity characteristic with respect to the second cushion support portion. Optionally, the sub-nasal ridge includes a scalloped edge. In some cases, the cushion comprises a generally flat sealing surface. The cushion may include a generally curved sealing surface.
In some cases, such mask apparatus may further include a respiratory treatment apparatus configured to generate a controlled supply of breathable gas at a pressure above atmospheric pressure, the respiratory treatment apparatus including a gas delivery conduit coupled with the frame to direct the breathable gas to the frame.
In some versions of the mask apparatus, a cushion support clip may be flexible. The cushion support clip may be inwardly concave. The cushion support clip may be made of a material other than or different from foam. The cushion may be foam externally attached to a flexible clip. In some cases, a foam surface of the cushion may be configured for direct contact with a patient's skin. A foam of the cushion may be a semi-open cell foam with limited permeability.
Some versions of the present technology may include a respiratory mask for delivering a respiratory gas treatment. The mask may include a frame and cushion. The cushion may be adapted to couple with the frame. The cushion may be configured as a substantially under nose seal portion and a mouth seal portion. The cushion may further define a centrally open lip superior region.
The cushion may include a nasal plateau region and a mouth periphery region. The cushion may be configured with an approximately nasolabial angle between the nasal plateau region and the mouth periphery region. The cushion may be a triangular ring having a common nasal and mouth aperture. The cushion may be foam.
The cushion and the frame may form a common plenum chamber for sealing about nares and mouth. The centrally open lip superior region may be within the plenum chamber. The cushion may include a protrusion configured to ply adjacent to a nasal ala of a patient. The cushion may include left and right nasal ala protrusions.
The respiratory mask may include a clip to removably couple the cushion to the frame. The clip may include flexible nasal protrusions. The clip may include first and second cushion support portions, the first and second cushion support portions being configured to provide different flexibility characteristics.
In some versions of the present technology, such as when a mask is configured for sealing with the mouth and over the nasal bridge, a foam cushion may be implemented.
For example, a foam cushion assembly can be configured to seal around the mouth and over the nasal bridge, and can achieve a comfortable and effective seal. Such an assembly may include a foam cushion portion, a flexible clip portion and a rigid clip portion. The flexible clip may be arranged to complement the compliance of the cushion so as to allow a reduction in the size of the cushion. Whilst the rigid clip portion is generally expected to be made of generally hard material, the term “rigid” is relative with respect to the softer “flexible” clip portion (also referred to a soft clip or flexible clip). Thus the rigid portion (also referred to a rigid clip) may have some level of flexibility. Its hardness, however, should be sufficient to facilitate attachment to the frame or to the headgear.
In terms of comfort, the force applied to the user's face at the seal interface from headgear and treatment pressure of a respiratory treatment can be distributed over a larger surface area compared to traditional silicone based seals, resulting in better comfort as well as an improved perceived comfort. This may have a positive effect on patient therapy acceptance and, hence, compliance.
Any mask leak can be dispersed over a wider area resulting in a more dispersed flow, which minimise “jetting” that is attributable to conventional silicone cushions. This is likely to improve patient engagement with therapy and compliance verses that associated with typical silicone sealing technology.
Some potential benefits of such a foam cushion or assembly may include:
A breathable foam cushion assembly can serve as a cooler skin contact region and reduce discomfort in sealing areas.
The inclusion of an optional flexible clip allows a reduced overall dimension in the foam component of the cushion, compared to a foam mask without such a component. This increases stability without a compromise in comfort and sealing.
A foam cushion assembly can be relatively small in size, unobtrusive, yet easily removable for cleaning and replacement.
Some versions of the present technology include a foam cushion assembly for a patient interface. The foam cushion assembly may be adapted to couple with a patient interface frame. The cushion assembly may include a substantially above nose seal portion and a mouth seal portion. Such a cushion assembly may include a foam cushion arranged to form with the frame a common plenum chamber and for sealing about the nose and mouth of the patient, and it may include a cushion support clip arranged to couple to the foam cushion, wherein the cushion support clip may be characterised by a height to thickness ratio of at least 3, around an entire periphery of the cushion.
The cushion support clip may be flexible. The flexible cushion support clip may be formed by a rigid material and the flexibility may be induced by way of introducing one or more compliance regions. The compliance regions may be formed by introducing a line of weakness or a region of weakness.
The cushion support clip may have an inwardly concave shape, dimensions and material properties that, when pressure is applied to the patient interface, facilitate an air spring effect. The cushion support clip may be made of a material other than foam and silicone. The foam cushion may be externally attached to the cushion support clip. A foam surface of the cushion may be configured for direct contact with a patient's skin.
The foam cushion may be a semi-open cell foam with limited permeability. The foam cushion may have a permeability characteristic in a range of about 0 to 20 litters per minute. The foam cushion may have an indentation hardness characteristic in a range of about 110.48 to 303.11 Newtons. The foam cushion may have a compression stress strain characteristic in a range of about 2.32 to 7.26 kilo-pascals. The foam cushion may have an apparent density characteristic in a range of about 24.3 to 117.85 kilograms per meter cubed. The foam cushion may have a compression set characteristic in a range of about 0.16 to 17.30 percent.
The cushion support clip may be L, C and/or Z-shaped. The cushion support clip may include a foam cushion coupling portion, providing a contact surface to which the cushion is attached, a flexible support portion and a base portion for attaching to a second support clip or to the frame. The foam cushion assembly may have shape, dimensions and material characteristics of the cushion support clip selected so that at least a portion of the clip acts as a cantilever spring.
The cushion assembly may also include a second support clip configured to couple with the cushion support clip and the frame. The second support clip may be more rigid than the cushion support clip and the cushion support clip may be more rigid than the foam cushion. The foam cushion and the cushion support clip may be integrally connected. The foam cushion, the cushion support clip and the second support clip may be integrally connected.
The foam cushion assembly may be configured so that different levels of support and compliance are provided in at least some sections along a periphery of the cushion assembly. In some versions, one or more parameters vary in at least some sections of a periphery of the clip, the parameters may include: spring constant of the clip and/or the foam cushion; cross-sectional profile of the clip and/or the foam cushion; wall thickness of the clip; angle of a contact surface of the clip to which the cushion is attached; overhang of the cushion with respect to the supporting contact surface; and foam thickness.
The foam cushion assembly may further include a protrusion being configured to be, when in use, depressed by a headgear strap so as to apply pressure on a respective region of the foam cushion.
Some versions of the present technology may include a patient interface apparatus for a respiratory treatment. The patient interface apparatus may include a frame adapted to couple with a respiratory treatment apparatus so as to permit communication of a pressurized gas to a respiratory system of a patient from the respiratory treatment apparatus. It may further include a cushion assembly adapted to couple with the frame of any of the versions described herein.
Some versions of the present technology may include a mask cushion assembly for a patient interface of a respiratory treatment apparatus. The mask cushion assembly may include a peripheral foam cushion adapted as a seal for a mouth portion. The peripheral foam cushion may be further adapted as a seal for a nasal portion. The cushion assembly may further include a flexible support component peripherally engaged with the foam cushion and a rigid support component coupled with the flexible support component, wherein the flexible support component is formed of an air impermeable material. The flexible support component may be formed of a flexible material.
The flexible support component may be formed by a rigid material, wherein the flexible support component comprises one or more compliance regions inducing flexibility. The compliance regions may be formed by introducing a line of weakness or a region of weakness.
The rigid support component may include a mask frame. The rigid support component may include a clip for coupling with a mask frame. The clip may include at least one snap element. The flexible support component may include an internal periphery of a plenum chamber of the mask cushion assembly, the internal periphery adapted to respond to a treatment pressure provided at the mask to increase a sealing force of a seal of the foam cushion.
The flexible support component may include an internal periphery of a plenum chamber of the mask cushion, wherein the flexible support component is configured to respond with different reaction forces in at least some regions of the periphery. The regions with different reaction forces may include a side of nose region and a side of mouth region. The flexible support component may be configured to provide different roll-in responses in different regions of the periphery of the flexible support component. The different regions may include an upper cheek region and a side of mouth region. The internal periphery may be formed with different angles in the different regions, each angle formed by a support portion and a foam cushion coupling portion. The flexible support component may include one or more of a ‘C’ cross sectional geometry and an ‘L’ cross sectional geometry.
The foam cushion coupling portion may include a peripheral lip to which the foam cushion may be mounted. In some cases, the engagement of the peripheral lip and foam cushion form an overhang foam portion in at least some sections along the periphery of the lip. The foam cushion may include a nasal bridge contact region. The nasal bridge contact region of the foam cushion may include a nasal recess.
The foam cushion may include a substantially under nose seal portion, the under nose seal portion comprising a sub-nasal ridge formed as a semi-peripheral sealing boundary about both nares of the patient.
In some versions, the flexible support component may include a shell of a plenum chamber and a connection port for coupling to an air circuit of a respiratory treatment apparatus, and the rigid support component may include a headgear frame including a shell aperture configured for fitting about the shell.
In some versions, a flexible skirt member of a mask component moves to engage and cover an inner surface of the foam cushion, the flexible skirt member may be air impermeable.
In some versions, a peripheral foam cushion may be generally planar and the flexible support component and/or the rigid support component may impart a three dimensional (3D) contour to the peripheral foam cushion, when attached to the foam cushion. The foam may be a polyurethane semi-open cell foam of limited permeability.
In some cases, a spring constant of a foam cushion with a nasal recess and flexible support component in a mouth region may be greater than a spring constant of the foam cushion and flexible support component in a nasal bridge region. Optionally, a spring constant of the foam cushion and flexible support component in a cheek region may be similar to the spring constant of the nasal bridge region. A spring constant of a flexible clip only configuration in a mouth region may be larger than a spring constant in a cheek bone region and the spring constant in the cheek bone region may be larger than a spring constant in a nasal bridge region.
The foam cushion may have a compression stress strain characteristic in a range of about 2.32 to 7.26 kilopascals. The foam cushion may have a coefficient of friction characteristic in a range of about 1.86 to 19.12 CF. The foam cushion may have an elongation at break characteristic in a range of about 72.3 to 369.05 percent. The foam cushion may have a permeability characteristic in a range of about 0 to 20 liters per minute. The foam cushion may have an indentation hardness characteristic in a range of about 110.48 to 303.11 Newtons. The foam cushion may have a compression stress strain characteristic in a range of about 2.32 to 7.26 kilo-pascals. The foam cushion may have an apparent density characteristic in a range of about 24.3 to 117.85 kilograms per meter cubed. The foam cushion may have a compression set characteristic in a range of about 0.16 to 17.30 percent. The foam cushion may have a tensile strength characteristic in a range of about 0.03 to 0.27 MegaPascals.
The flexible support component may be inwardly concave. The flexible support component may be made of a material other than foam. The cushion may be made of foam and be externally attached to flexible support component. A foam surface of the cushion may be configured for direct contact with a patient's skin. One or more parameters may vary in at least some sections of the periphery of the flexible support component, the parameters may include: spring constant of the flexible support component and/or the foam cushion; cross-sectional profile of the flexible support component and/or the foam cushion; wall thickness of the flexible support component; angle of a contact surface of the flexible support component to which the cushion is attached; overhang of the cushion with respect to the supporting contact surface; and/or foam thickness.
Some versions of the mask cushion assembly may further include a protrusion configured to be, when in use, depressed by a headgear strap so as to apply pressure on a respective region of the foam cushion.
Some versions of the present technology may include a mask cushion for a mask frame that may include a foam cushion. The mask cushion may include a peripheral portion adapted as a seal for a mouth portion. The peripheral portion may be further adapted as a seal for a nasal portion. The foam cushion may further include a stretchable engagement skirt, whereby the foam cushion may be configured as a slip-over foam cover for a supporting structure.
Some versions of the present technology may include a mask cushion assembly for a mask frame. The assembly may include a foam cushion, the foam cushion may include a peripheral portion adapted as a seal for a mouth portion. The peripheral portion may be further adapted as a seal for a nasal portion. The mask cushion assembly may further include an inner peripheral clip and outer peripheral clip. The clips may be configured to engage with a foam support component. The inner peripheral clip may engage on an inner side of the foam cushion and the outer peripheral clip may engage on an outer side of the foam cushion. The clips may clamp the foam cushion to secure the foam cushion to the foam support component. The clips may be configured to clamp the foam so as to round a patient contact surface of the foam cushion. The clips may further include an over-clip portion configured to depress over a top side portion of the foam cushion. The foam cushion may further include a slit to receive an over-clip portion.
Of course, portions of the aspects may form sub-aspects of the present technology. Also, various ones of the sub-aspects and/or aspects may be combined in various manners and also constitute additional aspects or sub-aspects of the present technology.
Other features of the technology will be apparent from consideration of the information contained in the following detailed description, abstract, drawings and claims.
The present technology is illustrated by way of example, and not by way of limitation, in the figures of the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to similar elements including:
Before the present technology is described in further detail, it is to be understood that the technology is not limited to the particular examples described herein, which may vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used in this disclosure is for the purpose of describing only the particular examples discussed herein, and is not intended to be limiting.
In one form, the present technology comprises apparatus for treating a respiratory disorder. The apparatus may include a flow generator or blower for supplying pressurised respiratory gas, such as air, to the patient 1000 via an air delivery conduit, such as a tube, leading to a patient interface 3000.
In one form, the present technology may involve a method for treating a respiratory disorder by applying positive pressure to the entrance of the airways of a patient 1000.
In one example, the present technology may involve a method of treating Obstructive Sleep Apnea in a patient by applying continuous positive airway pressure to the patient with a patient interface described herein. Other positive pressure treatment therapies may also be provided (e.g., bi-level CPAP, etc.)
An example PAP device 4000 in accordance with one aspect of the present technology may include mechanical and pneumatic components 4100, electrical components 4200 and is programmed to execute one or more control methodologies or algorithms, such as to control providing the continuous positive airway pressure or any one or more of the positive pressure treatment therapies. The PAP device may include an external housing 4010, which may be formed in two parts, an upper portion 4012 of the external housing 4010, and a lower portion 4014 of the external housing 4010. In alternative forms, the external housing 4010 may include one or more panel(s) 4015. The PAP device 4000 may include a chassis 4016 that supports one or more internal components of the PAP device 4000. In one form a pneumatic block 4020 is supported by, or formed as part of the chassis 4016. The PAP device 4000 may include a handle 4018.
The pneumatic path of the PAP device 4000 may include an inlet air filter 4112, an inlet muffler 4122, a controllable source 4140 of air at positive pressure (preferably a blower 4142), and an outlet muffler 4124. One or more pressure sensors 4272 and flow sensors 4274 may be included in the pneumatic path.
An example pneumatic block 4020 may include a portion of the pneumatic path that is located within the external housing 4010.
The PAP device 4000 may have an electrical power supply 4210, one or more input devices 4220, a processor, a pressure device controller, one or more protection circuits, memory, transducers, data communication interface and one or more output devices. Electrical components 4200 may be mounted on a single Printed Circuit Board Assembly (PCBA) 4202. In an alternative form, the PAP device 4000 may include more than one PCBA 4202.
The processor of the PAP device 4000 may be programmed to execute a series of algorithm modules in use, preferably including pre-processing transducer signals module, a therapy engine module 4320, a pressure control module, and further preferably a fault condition module.
A patient interface 3000 in any versions of the present technology may typically include optional features such as a seal forming structure 3100, a plenum chamber 3200, positioning and stabilizing structure 3300, vent 3400, decoupling structure 3510, connection port 3600, forehead support 3700, anti-asphyxia valve 3800 and/or one or more ports 3900. Such features may be considered in reference at least to the examples of
In one form of the present technology, a seal-forming structure 3100 provides a sealing-forming surface, and may additionally provide a cushioning function.
A seal-forming structure 3100 in accordance with the present technology may be constructed from a soft, flexible, resilient material such as silicone or other materials and structures described throughout this specification.
In one form, the seal-forming structure 3100 may include a sealing flange and may further include a support flange. The sealing flange may be a relatively thin member with a thickness of less than about 1 mm, for example about 0.25 mm to about 0.45 mm, that extends around the perimeter of the plenum chamber 3200. Support flange may be relatively thicker than the sealing flange. The support flange can be disposed between the sealing flange and the marginal edge of the plenum chamber 3200, and extends at least part of the way around the perimeter. The support flange is or includes a spring-like element and functions to support the sealing flange from buckling in use. In use the sealing flange can readily respond to system pressure in the plenum chamber 3200 acting on its underside to urge it into tight sealing engagement with the face.
In one form the seal-forming portion of the non-invasive patient interface 3000 comprises a pair of nasal puffs, or nasal pillows, each nasal puff or nasal pillow being constructed and arranged to form a seal with a respective naris of the nose of a patient.
Nasal pillows in accordance with an aspect of the present technology may include: a frusto-cone, at least a portion of which forms a seal on an underside of the patient's nose; a stalk, a flexible region on the underside of the cone and connecting the cone to the stalk. In addition, the structure to which the nasal pillow of the present technology is connected includes a flexible region adjacent the base of the stalk. The flexible regions can act in concert to facilitate a universal joint structure that is accommodating of relative movement-both displacement and angular—of the frusto-cone and the structure to which the nasal pillow is connected. For example, the frusto-cone may be axially displaced towards the structure to which the stalk is connected.
In one form of a non-invasive patient interface 3000, a seal-forming portion forms a seal in use on an upper lip region (that is, the lip superior) of the patient's face.
In one form the non-invasive patient interface 3000 comprises a seal-forming portion that forms a seal in use on a chin-region of the patient's face.
Additional features of the seal-forming structure may be further considered in reference to the additional details of this specification.
Preferably the plenum chamber 3200 has a perimeter that is shaped to be complementary to a surface contour of the face of an average person in the region where a seal will form in use. In use, a marginal edge of the plenum chamber 3200 is positioned in close proximity to an adjacent surface of the face. Actual contact with the face is provided by the seal-forming structure 3100. Preferably the seal-forming structure 3100 extends in use about the entire perimeter of the plenum chamber 3200.
Preferably the seal-forming structure 3100 of the patient interface 3000 of the present technology is held in sealing position in use by the positioning and stabilising structure 3300.
In one form, the patient interface 3000 includes a vent 3400 constructed and arranged to allow for the washout of exhaled carbon dioxide.
One form of vent 3400 in accordance with the present technology comprises a plurality of holes, for example, about 20 to about 80 holes, or about 40 to about 60 holes, or about 45 to about 55 holes.
Preferably the vent 3400 is located in the plenum chamber 3200. Alternatively, the vent 3400 is located in a decoupling structure 3510, e.g. a swivel.
In one form the patient interface 3000 includes at least one decoupling structure 3510, for example a swivel or a ball and socket.
Connection port 3600 allows for connection to the air circuit 4170.
In one form, the patient interface 3000 includes a forehead support 3700.
In one form, the patient interface 3000 includes an anti-asphyxia valve 3800.
In one form of the present technology, a patient interface 3000 may optionally include one or more ports that allow access to the volume within the plenum chamber 3200. In one form this allows a clinician to supply supplemental oxygen. In one form this allows for the direct measurement of a property of gases within the plenum chamber 3200, such as the pressure.
A non-invasive patient interface 3000 in accordance with one example of the present technology may be considered with reference to
For example, as shown in
In some cases, as illustrated in
Obtaining a seal with a single cushion that seals both over the mouth and under the nares of the nose can be difficult to achieve with a nasal cradle design that uses standard silicone cushion materials. It has been discovered that the anthropometrical variations of facial features are large. Some materials, such as standard silicone, may have insufficient flex to achieve both seal and comfort, especially with respect to the intricate facial features surrounding the nose and the mouth.
In some cases, this problem may be overcome by an implementation of foam, such as a semi-open (or semi closed) cell foam. In some examples, the cushion may be a foamed silicone material or a polyurethane foam, etc. In some cases, a very low durometer thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPV), silicone or rubber material might be implemented. The compliant nature of foam allows it to, under relatively small tension force, compress into intricate facial features and affect a good seal. This, combined with the easy adaptability and softness experienced by the patient, provides for a relative fast and easy mask set-up. The porosity of the foam also exhibits better breathability than silicone and may permit wicking away of moisture from the face. Thus, the use of foam may be associated with better cooling and reduced discomfort in the areas of contact or sealing.
In some cases, the cushion and/or frame may define a single chamber, such as the plenum chamber 3200 that is illustrated in
The seal around the mouth and the nares of such a mask can be produced through the interaction between the patient's face and the combined reaction of the assembly (e.g., frame, flexible clip, and/or cushion) and subject to tension from headgear. The structures of the components when assembled can work together to provide variable amounts of compression around the nose and mouth so that an effective seal is produced in these areas.
When the nose is applied onto the cushion (e.g., foam) in the region of the sub-nasal ridge, the headgear may be tightened. The headgear vectors help to enforce a seal at the periphery of both of the nares through the combination of the cushion (e.g., foam) and/or the cushion support structure 8800 (e.g., clip 3535) rolling inwards (illustrated by arrows RR in
In some cases, there may be a potential for occlusion of the nares by some cushions during set-up or use. When the seal around the nares is associated with the compression of some foams, it can lead to nasal occlusion occurring at mask set-up before pressure is applied to the mask. In order to minimize the potential for occlusion, a balance can be attained between the foam thickness, the foam profile around the periphery of the nares and cantilever spring characteristics of the support structure (e.g., clip if used).
In the case of implementation of foam, a thin foam section, such as in the nasal region may be suitable. For example, a foam thickness of about 8 to 20 mm (e.g., 13 mm) may noticeably improve/prevent set-up occlusion. In some cases, the foam internal profile may be aligned and/or shaped to match the nares opening such as at their periphery. A soft elastic material (such as silicone, TPE, TPU etc.) may be implemented as a material such as for the cushion support. Such a material can be configured to pass on a light cantilever spring affect onto the nose.
During a pressure treatment, such as a CPAP treatment, occlusion may be avoided at the nares. The internal profile (as illustrated in
The cantilever spring force of the cushion support (e.g., clip and/or frame) can be soft enough to allow the nose to press into the foam cushion at set-up without occluding the nares. Conversely, the spring force of the cushion support can provide enough reaction force to press the foam cushion into all the sealing zones of the mask. This may be significant for areas such as at the corners of the nose.
Example components for a mask assembly of the present technology are further illustrated in
The frame may typically include a connection port 3600. The connection port 3600 allows for connection to an air circuit 4170, such as for a connection with a respiratory treatment apparatus or flow generator. Such a connection to an air circuit may be by way of a decoupling structure as previously mentioned. In some cases, the patient interface 3000 may include an anti-asphyxia valve (not shown). Optionally, the frame may include one or more additional ports. Such additional ports may permit access to the volume within the plenum chamber 3200. For example, such a port may permit introduction of a supply of supplemental oxygen. Such a port may also serve as a coupler or housing for a sensor for direct measurement of a property of the gases within the plenum chamber 3200, such as pressure.
The frame may contain a flange 3515 around its rear (patient proximate side) periphery such as the one illustrated in
In some cases, the mask assembly may employ a clip 3535 as illustrated in
In some cases, the clip's profile can assist in imparting form to the cushion so as to configure the cushion into its multi-dimensional shape (e.g., multi-plane) suitable for conforming to the person's face so as to form a good seal in an under-the-nose configuration. In this regard, as seen in
Alternatively, a 2D flat clip may be used. In this case the 3D shape is imparted to the flexible clip/cushion combination by attachment onto a 3-D shaped frame.
Generally, the clip may be permanently coupled to the frame or include connectors 3536, such as those illustrated in
As the wall thickness of the clip is relatively small (i.e. few millimeters) the clip's body may generally be approximated with a curved surface. The cross-sectional profile of the clip around the clip's periphery may differ in different sections of the clip so as to provide different regions of flexibility/rigidness to the cushion. Examples may be considered with reference to the cross sectional views of
Accordingly, the clip (or frame) may be formed with a flexible peripheral lip that variably supports the foam cushion. Pressure within the plenum chamber formed between the mask frame, clip, cushion and the face of the patient, acts on the inside of the clip section (e.g., the shape opening SO of the wall) and cushion and pushes the peripheral lip and the cushion towards the patient's face, thereby reinforcing the seal created by the cushion. As pressure increases, so does the force creating the seal. As such, the wall of the clip may also be chosen to have thickness and flexibility to allow the air pressure to create an air spring effect, further contributing to the compliance of the seal.
As previously mentioned, the wall geometry around the periphery of the clip may vary in order to alter the stiffness or flexibility around the nose and mouth sealing regions. Different stiffness/rigidity may be achieved in these different sections of the face to achieve a balance between good seal, comfort and stability. For example, around the nose, a softer seal can be achieved as the nose is sensitive to pressure, whereas the sides of the mouth can withstand larger sealing pressures without discomfort. Thus, the flexibility of the clip (or frame) may impart these different flexibility characteristics.
In some such examples, support for the cushion in the nasal sealing area may be formed as the flexible cross-section “U” geometry illustrated in
Similarly, with respect to at least the example clip shown in
In this regard, the combination of a foam cushion and the flexible support structure of the clip can provide reasonable results. However, for achieving optimal seal comfort, the flexible clip may be provided with an oversized peripheral lip that increases the support of a foam cushion width that may be larger than the support surface of the peripheral lip. Such variations in the width of the peripheral lip can produce different reaction forces around the periphery of the mouth cushion. Beam and bending principles may show that, in isolation, a shorter peripheral lip will produce a stiffer mechanical system as there will be less clip deflection for a certain unit force than there will be for a longer peripheral lip.
Such a clip may be considered with reference to the cushion support structures of
Adjustments to flexibility around the sealing periphery may also be achieved by varying the thickness of the lip. For example, a lip thickness value along the sides of the mouth toward the nasal peak portion may be approximately double that of the thickness along the bottom of the mouth. Such a ratio can provide less flexibility in the nasal region and relatively more flexibility in the lip inferior region. In one such example, and depending on the clip materials, peripheral lip thickness may be in a range of about 1.5 mm to 2.5 mm, such as about a 2.2 mm (+/−0.1 mm) relatively constant thickness from the region proximate to the sides of the mouth to the nasal peak region. The region of the peripheral lip proximate to the lip inferior (around the bottom of the mouth) may be in the range of about 0.75 mm to 1.25 mm, such as about a relatively constant 1.0 mm (+/−0.1 mm) thickness.
Generally, the body depth (illustrated in
In some cases, additional features may be formed with or applied to the cushion support structure to further affect the performance of the seal, such as flexible nasal protrusions. Such an example is illustrated with respect to the clip of
As previously mentioned, the cushion support (clip or frame), or portions thereof, may be molded from different grades of thermoplastic elastomers TPE. Grades of different hardness may be used. Generally, a TPE material may be more beneficial to silicone as it may be more easily molded onto some cushions (e.g., foam) and its processing time may be faster than silicone. However, other elastic or flexible materials may be used such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), thermoplastic polyurethane TPV or rubber, etc. By way of further example, in some cases, the flexible support structure (e.g., clip) may be formed with silicone, such as a room temperature vulcanizing RTV silicone.
As mentioned previously, because of their flexible nature, the cushion and cushion support structure (e.g., clip) work in unison to respond to the compression force imparted to the frame by the headgear vectors. However, the cushion, such as when foam is used, may play a greater part in conforming to the face of the user purely because it is the softer component and therefore may compress more. Eventually, when the headgear tension has been applied and the frame is pulled towards the patient's face, the foam and flexible support structure will reach an equilibrium shape, in which a seal is created.
Example cushions for the mask assemblies of the present technology are illustrated in
With these example generally uni-planar cushions, when connected to the clip or frame as illustrated in
While the cushions of
Generally, there should be an air tight seal between cushion and its support structure (e.g., the clip). Various methods may be employed to implement such a joining of the cushion. For example, the cushion may be adhered to the support structure such as with glue, spray adhesives or hotmelts, etc. In some cases, it may be adhered by ultrasonic welding. In some cases, the cushion may be sewn and adhered. The join may also be implemented with an intermediary material such as a tape (e.g., a double sided adhesive tape). In some cases, the support structure (e.g., clip) may be over molded to the cushion.
Similarly, such methods may be employed for joining the cushion to the frame, such as without an interfacing clip. In this regard, the frame may provide the shape forming structure and surface to hold the cushion (e.g., foam) in the desired profile for patient sealing. In such an embodiment, the cushion foam may provide some or all of the necessary spring and softness to effect the seal and provide comfort to the patient. Otherwise, some of the previously described flexible features (e.g., cantilever components of the clip) may be formed with the frame to assist with the seal and comfort effectiveness. In some such clip-free cases, some of the flexible properties of the clip may be imparted to the foam by using a secondary layer of cushion rather than the clip. Such a secondary cushion layer may be applied to the patient contact foam layer and may have different flexibility/rigidity properties when compared to the first foam layer. In such a case, the second layer of the dual cushion may be applied directly to the frame without the clip.
In some cases the foam cushion may be a replaceable item (in some embodiments the replaceable item may include the cushion/clip combination). The cushion may be directly attached to the frame through an adhesive membrane located on the foam (or on a surface of the respective clip (either flexible or rigid). In such a case, the cushion may be simply removed, and a different cushion, with a new adhesive strip, may then be attached to the reusable frame (or reusable clip). In some cases, the foam cushion and frame may be co-molded. In some such cases, the cushion and frame unit may then be discarded together.
In some examples, the cushion 3110 may include additional features. For example, as shown in
The shape of such a notch may be defined from any of the following anthropometric features: width between the labial insertions of the alar base; length of the ala; nasal ala-slope angle; inclination of the columella; nasal tip protrusion; width of nose. In some cases, the depth of the indent detail may be based on any of: the inclination of the columella; patient perception with respect to providing sufficient indication as to where the under nose section of the mask should be worn; sufficient surface to seal around the edge curvature of the nose; sufficient support around the periphery of the nose to prevent the nose from blowing out such as due to pressure from a pressure treatment.
Other versions of the geometry of the indent may include a simple chamfered edge following the periphery of the nose. When the foam has sufficient compliance for the chamfer to fit the nose an improved seal can result. Similarly, other variations in the overall triangular shape of the scalloped nasal feature may be achieved since foam has sufficient compliance to conform to facial features in a range of sizes.
As previously mentioned, the indent, such as the scalloped nasal detail, can effectively cup the lower periphery of the nose and may provide additional surface area for sealing and comfort. Thus, it may work in conjunction with other components of the mask assembly (clip and frame) during use to effectively serve as a seal. In terms of sealing and depending on the specific anthropology of the nose, the sealing interface may shift or extend or both, from under the nose to under and/or partially up the sides of the nose. In terms of comfort, the force applied to the nose from the headgear and the treatment pressure from the seal interface, may thereby be distributed over a larger surface area, resulting in better comfort.
The geometry of the indent in the foam cushion can change to accommodate a range of nasal sizes. A nose that is pressed into the scalloped detail, for example, during set-up of the mask will displace foam until the foam conforms to the nose. The flexible spring nature of the cushion support structure (e.g., clip and/or frame) can provide a resistive force at this stage to prevent the nose from fully pushing through the foam. Under treatment pressure, the foam can be pressed back against the nose which helps to provide an effective seal.
In some cases, the indent may be manufactured as part of a complete compression cutting process for the cushion. Alternatively, the feature may be manufactured by a secondary process such as thermoforming, ultrasonic welding or cutting. In some cases, the whole cushion including the scalloped nasal detail may be manufactured from a single compression cutting or thermoforming process.
In some further examples, the cushion may also include one or more protrusions. Such protrusion(s) may be included on the surface of the cushion. For example, one or more protrusions can be so disposed so that, when the mask is fit on the patient's face, the protrusions extend further out of the cushion into a portion of the patient's face. As such, the protrusions may provide additional structural support and a better seal. For example, a set (e.g., pair) of protrusions 3764, such as one or more approximately oval projections or of another shape, are illustrated in the cushion and mask of
As previously mentioned, the connection between the clip and frame may be implemented with various structures. Some examples are illustrated in
Some example connection structures for anchoring the clip to the frame may include: tongue and groove geometry; a stretchable periphery skirt to extend around an edge of the frame; a peripheral edge that connects by interference fit, such as one similar to air-tight food containers; a tongue and slot interface with secondary lip seal or gasket present. In some cases, the connection structures of the clip may correspond to existing mask frames to permit retrofitting of the cushion designs described herein with existing mask frames.
In the connector example of
In the connector example of
In the connector example of
In the connector example of
Traditional Full Face mask (also referred to as a patient interface) obtains a seal with the user's face by way of a silicone cushion that seals both around the mouth and over the bridge of the nose. The main issue with this is that, due to the nature of the silicon material, often comfort issues are experienced by the user (i.e. facial markings or other skin irritations).
This problem may be overcome by the implementation of foam such as the foam previously discussed. In some embodiments, the foam cushion can be in direct contact with the patient's skin. The compliant nature of foam allows it to, under relatively small tension force, compress into intricate facial features and affect a good seal. This, combined with the easy adaptability and softness experienced by the patient, provides for a relative fast and easy mask set-up. The foam also exhibits better breathability than silicone. Thus, the use of foam is associated with better permeability (associated by many users with a “different feeling on the face verses silicone”) and reduced discomfort in the areas of contact in the sealing areas.
The comfort associated with the permeability of the foam has to be balanced with the increased leak associated with high permeability. As in the case of the under nose mask configuration, the foam cushion may generally be formed by open cell foam, in which the majority of cells are open; by closed cell foam, in which the majority of cells are open or by semi-open (or semi-closed) cell foam, which is formed by a mixture of open and closed cells. In one example, the discussed technology may use a semi-open cell foam in which the number of open cells is significantly higher than that of the closed cells. This ensures limited permeability and a smaller leak through the cushion. The specific range of permeability values having such limited permeability and found suitable for the disclosed technology is discussed later in the text. Other ratios between the number of open and closed cells can also be used. In the case of higher permeability, various actions may have to be taken to mitigate the increased permeability. As discussed elsewhere in the text, one such action is extending the flexible clip or other non-permeable membrane to cover the inner surfaces of the foam cushion and reduce the overall permeability. It is envisaged that open cell foams or closed cell foams may also be used according to the discussed technology.
In order to achieve comfortable fit, a good seal and stability, current Full Face foam masks are larger in footprint when compared to masks with traditional silicone seals.
In effort to achieve certain flow characteristics, some foam cushions previously used are either not permeable or may include a secondary layer over the foam to stop air from passing through the foam. Both options remove the breathability benefit of a foam seal. Only traditional foam full face masks having sealed or non-permeable foam cushions were compatible with current respiratory therapy for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
Some prior foam masks also involve separate individual components that together form the cushion. In one example, a foam layer may be attached to a silicon cushion to improve the sealing quality and the comfort associated with the mask. In some circumstances, such arrangements, may be large in size and less comfortable, and may make it more difficult for the user to disassemble, assemble and clean the mask.
In some versions of the present technology, such as when a mask is configured for sealing with the mouth and over the nasal bridge as shown in the example of
For example, a foam cushion assembly can be configured to seal around the mouth and over the nasal bridge, and can achieve a comfortable and effective seal. Such an assembly may include a foam cushion portion and a cushion support structure (e.g., a support clip portion). Here the expression “over the nasal bridge” should be construed as “across” the nasal bridge and not as “above” the nasal bridge. The support clip portion may be a flexible (or soft) clip portion configured to complement the compliance of the cushion so as to allow a reduction in the size of the cushion. The foam cushion can be externally attached to the cushion support clip. Such an external attachment can permit the foam surface of the cushion to be configured for direct contact with a patient's skin.
In one example, the cushion 3810, which may be made with foam, defines a single area that peripherally covers the patient's mouth and nose (approximately midway up the nasal bridge, but this can vary depending on the face anatomy of the specific patient). The foam cushion may, for example, be made from any suitable material such as one or more of the following example materials: Polyethylene, Polyurethane, Ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA). In some cases, the foam cushion may be a semi-open closed cell foam, such as one made of polyurethane. The cushion of semi-open cell foam may have a limited permeability such as in the ranges described in more detail in this specification.
The cushion 3810 may have a substantially triangular or pear-like shape with a sealing face that follows the contours of a user's face. The single chamber foam cushion is designed to be attached to a first support (e.g., flexible) clip 3812 that is itself attached to a second, more rigid, clip 3814 (as shown in
In some versions of the cushion assembly or cushion mask may include a protrusion, or an alignment protrusion, that may be configured, when in use, to be depressed by a headgear strap so as to apply pressure on a respective region of the foam cushion. For example, a protrusion 3813 may optionally be included on the outer surface of the first support clip 3812 (e.g., flexible support clip) on both sides of the mouth (e.g., both symmetrically located about the mouth), in such a manner that a respective headgear strap may pass over each protrusion, as shown in
In some examples, the flexible clip or even both the flexible and the rigid clips may be omitted by directly applying a foam-only cushion assembly to the frame. Such a design, however, may require the cushion to be of a substantial thickness and height. The implementation of a clip, even of a rigid one, and especially of a flexible clip or a combination of soft and rigid clips as described here, allows reduction in the dimensions of the foam cushion, without compromising on compliance, sealing and comfort. One role of the rigid clip is to facilitate removable attachment of the foam/clip assembly to/from the frame for cleaning or replacement. Components of a foam cushion assembly 3901 are shown in
As illustrated in
In one example implementation of the foam, flexible clip and rigid clip are formed together or permanently attached to each other, as shown in
The mechanisms of such removable attachment may be those known in the art and may include adhesive layers (for attaching the foam to the flexible clip), interference fits and snap-locking engagements. The periphery of the more flexible components, such as the flexible clip, can also be stretched over the periphery of the more rigid component, such as the frame or the rigid clip.
Any combination of the three components is possible and alternative design variants could include a cushion assembly comprising only a foam cushion; a foam cushion and a flexible clip or a foam cushion and a hard clip.
In some cases, a foam cushion may itself be formed as a slip-over foam cover component for other mask components, assemblies or mask cushions. For example, a foam cushion overlay may be formed as or with a stretchable engagement skirt. The skirt or foam skirt may then be stretched over an underlying structure defined by any mask component, such as a frame, a clip or even a silicon cushion. Once the foam cushion has been slipped on to fit over an edge of an underlying component, it can serve as a comfortable sealing layer contacting the patient's face. As such, the slip-over foam cushion may even serve as an easily replaceable cover component to improve comfort of existing silicone or foam cushion masks.
With the mask example of
As illustrated in
The flexibility in the combination of foam and flexible clip can enable the foam mask to conform well to the patient's facial profile.
As the headgear vectors are further tightened, a greater sealing force SF will be applied.
The reaction forces in the cushion and the flexible clip, caused by the deflection and compression of the cushion and clip by the headgear, result in a reaction vector that is directed from the frame support and towards the patient.
The structure of the foam cushion and the flexible clip is such that the treatment pressure (e.g., CPAP) accumulated inside the mask plenum chamber also acts upon the inner surface of the flexible clip and the foam, pushing them outwardly and compressing the foam against the user's face. Thus, the arrangement utilizes further the pressure in the plenum chamber and helps maintaining sealing pressure. As mentioned above, because of their flexible nature, the foam and clip work in unison to respond to the compression force imparted to the frame by the headgear vectors. Eventually, when the requisite headgear tension has been applied and the frame is pulled towards the patient's face, the foam and clip will reach an equilibrium shape, in which a seal is created and retained. In some examples, through its greater stiffness, the clip may provide a reaction force that is substantially larger than that provided by the foam cushion. The reactions forces of both the clip and the foam cushion may vary along their periphery.
Similarly, the compressed foam may provide relatively small elastic reaction force in some sections of the cushion periphery, and a larger force in other sections.
Similar to the mask examples previously described in this specification (e.g., sub-nasal mask), the flexible clip may be peripherally and inwardly concave so as to have a concave profile or inwardly concave shape. This can allow for the pressure to act upon the inner surface of the clip so as to enhance the sealing of the mask.
Different portions of the flexible clip can serve different functions. For example, the spring constant provided from the mid area of the shape (e.g., ‘C’) may act as a support beam that creates the main reaction force in response to the tension force applied by the headgear. A peripheral lip for supporting the foam can serve as a cantilever that presses the foam towards the patient's face to strengthen the sealing engagement. Additionally, the overall open (concave, C-shaped or L-shaped) structure of the clip allows the air pressure in the mask to be applied to the inside surface of the peripheral lip. This surface is located opposite to the foam supporting (also sealing) surface. Thus, the mask pressure pushes the peripheral lip, and therefore compresses the foam cushion towards the patient's face, thus further strengthening the sealing engagement and potentially assisting with reducing any air permeability of the foam. In the absence of the clip the pressure will still be applied to the foam cushion. However, because of the semi-open cell type of the used foam, the applied pressure may leak through the foam. Thus, the concave shape of the clip means that at least a portion of the lower surface of the foam cushion 3810 is covered by a non-permeable material of the flexible clip, as best seen in
In the example of the cushion shown in
The cushion may be configured with a varying cross section that can be divided into three regions, nasal bridge MNBR, sides of nose region MSNR and sides of mouth region MMR, with a smooth transition between each of the regions. Each section may be configured with a profile that is optimized for the specific area of the face with which it seals.
The cross section of the foam is designed to take into account of the following, and the geometry is design to address each of the areas:
It was found with an increase in the amount of foam (both height and width) there is an increase in overall comfort. Depending on the specific cross section of the first clip, the first clip becomes noticeable so as to be felt through the foam for heights of about less than (<) 8.0 mm. (In the example of
It was found the seal is improved with an increase in width for the surface of the foam that is directly in contact with the patient.
It was found the stability of the seal is negatively impacted by an increase in the height of the foam, whilst being positively impacted by an increase in the width of the foam.
The main risk of encroachment is the potential for the cushion assembly to intrude/obstruct the user's eyes. In some cases, the width of the foam may be reduced in these areas of the eye.
By minimizing either one or both the height and the width of the foam cushion in the noted ranges, one can minimize the overall size of the mask.
In some examples a nasal bridge region of the cushion, such as that illustrated in
In some versions, a side of the nose region of the cushion, such as that illustrated in
In some versions, a mouth region of the cushion, such as that illustrated in
Although these distinct regions have been illustrated with trapezium cross sectional geometry, other cross sectional geometries shown in
In some examples of the cushion, a combination of geometries can be implemented in a single foam cushion within and/or between different regions. For example, the foam may be configured with a transition of geometries between regions. In one example, the cushion may transition from a cross sectional geometry having a flat top (e.g., rectangular top for comfort and a better seal) to a round top to increase clearance around specific facial areas.
The example cross sectional geometries shown in
An example embodiment of the foam may be produced by compression cutting, but it may be produced by, or with a combination of, any of the following methods including, die cutting, thermoforming, moulding, grinding, compression cutting, etc. For example, the foam may be compression cut to a flat profile as illustrated in
The foam can be assembled onto a clip or other mask structure such as the soft/flexible clip by adhesive (e.g., glue and/or tape); by flame lamination; by moulding (e.g., moulding of foam onto the clip, or vice versa); by welding; mechanical connection between foam and clip; by sewing; etc. The foam may be formed or cut with a generally flat or planar contour. Although it will have a facial contour when used as a mask on a patient (see, e.g., facial contours of cushions of
As shown in the cross-sectional view of the cushion assembly illustrated in
Again, because of the relative small thickness of its walls (a few millimeters) the general shape of the body of the clip is a curved concave surface with the opening being directed inwardly towards the center of the plenum chamber of the mask. The cross-sectional profile of the flexible clip varies in shape, but can generally be described as L or C, or even Z-shaped, a simple gusset, or variations in wall section etc. The open or concave nature of the clip allows the pressure inside the mask plenum chamber to be applied to the cushion (illustrated by the arrows P4 of
A minimum height of about 5 mm is desired in the flexible clip to allow for sufficient movement during usage, so the user does not “bottom out” on the flexible clip. In this context, “bottoming out” can occur when the flexible clip has reached its deflection limits or when compressed completely flat to a stop and there is a sharp rise in the tension force acting on the user's face and experienced by the user. The height can be chosen to be a height within a range of about 5 mm to 30 mm, depending on the area of the face covered by the clip.
The entire flexible supporting clip or the middle support portion 4842 may represent a curved surface having, for example, a “Z”, “C” or “L” cross sectional geometry. The cushion coupling portion 4840 may be in the form of a peripheral lip that connects to the foam to form an effective cantilever over-hang portion. Depending on the structure and the material characteristics of the various section of the clip cross-sectional profile (shown in
When the headgear is tensioned, the support portion 4842 of the clip deforms and creates a reaction force that tries to return the clip to its original shape. This force depresses the foam towards the patient's face, enhancing the sealing engagement.
The configuration of the entire support clip is configured to offer a balance between support and flexibility. By varying the dimensions (mainly the wall thickness and the height), the rigidity and the cross-sectional shape along the perimeter of the clip, different levels of support and flexibility are provided in the different sections of the mask. Whilst support portion 4842 of the clip is generally perpendicular to the sealing plane SP-5, as it can be seen in
The cantilever springe effect resulting from the flexible nature of the clip was already described in previous paragraphs. However, the flexible nature of the clip may define a broader self-adjustment effect that may be distributed along the length of the clip and that goes beyond the cantilever springe effect. In particular, such an adjustment occurs when the mask is in an operational configuration—it is attached to the user, the headgear straps are tightened and the plenum chamber of the mask is pressurized. In this instance a certain balance is established between the forces acting on the clip. For example, in a direction perpendicular to the contact plane SP-5, such forces include forces depressing the clip (such as the tension force of the headgear applied via the mask frame, the applied pressure P4 and the reaction force applied by the foam cushion) and the clip's spring constant, defined mainly by the supporting portion 4842. However, the applied pressure in the plenum chamber acts not only in the direction indicated as P1, but on the entire inner surface of the clip. The overall balance of forces and the flexibility of the clip may lead to a dynamic change in the entire configuration of the cross-sectional profile of the clip, once the mask is in its operational configuration. Thus, the shape of the clip (such as the generally L shape shown in
The direction and the extent of modification of the configuration of the clip will depend on the above discussed balance of forces, on the patient's face profile and on the material properties of the clip, such as its rigidity/flexibility. These characteristics may be modified by way of changing the clip's shape, dimensions (e.g., thickness and/or height) and/or material properties. The specific dimensions and material (more specifically the mechanical) properties of at least some embodiments of the clip that facilitate such a modification of the cross-sectional profile of the clip, when in use, are described further in the text. The modification represents a self-adjustment mechanism that allows the flexible clip and the attached foam cushion to accommodate a wide variety of face geometries and features and provide comfortable and reliable seal. The effect of such a self-adjustment mechanism may be further enhanced by a purposeful change of the mechanical properties and the general spatial relationship (or angle) between the portions 4840 and 4842 around the periphery of the flexible clip, as will be discussed in relation to
In some instances, the support portion 4842 of the clip may be chosen to have dimensions (height and thickness) and mechanical properties (i.e., flexibility) that would allow the air pressure to create an air spring effect. This is to say that, as shown in
All of the effects described in the previous paragraphs allow the flexible clip to compliment the flexibility of the supporting clip. Their effect, however, is limited by the rigidity of the clip. The clip needs to have sufficient overall rigidity in order to provide significant structural support to the foam.
In some specific embodiments, if for any reason a substantial compliance and softness is required, the dimensions and the material properties of the clip may be selected so as to enable the clip to at least partially expand in a balloon like manner, under the pressure applied to the mask when in use. Such an arrangement will exhibit increased compliance, but reduced stability.
In the example shown in
A location ridge 4845 shown in
The first clip may be implemented with different characteristics in different regions of the clip. For example, different cross sectional geometries and/or properties in the various portions of the clip is intended to impart different properties to the associated sections of the mask and allow efficient sealing with the respective regions of the user's face, as described in detail below. Example regions are illustrated in
The example of the cross sectional geometry in this region shown in
The surface that attaches to the foam at cushion coupling portion 4848 may be the largest in this area (e.g., about 15 mm) but can be in a range of about 10 mm-25 mm. This sizing is done to reduce the likelihood of the seal blowing out on the sides of the nose, since it restricts the outward movement of the flexible clip in this region.
The height of the clip measured, as indicated in
The example cross sectional shape of the first clip in this region shown in
The height of the clip is measured, as indicated in
The example clip cross sectional geometry illustrated in
The height of the clip measured, as indicated in
The example clip cross sectional geometry for the bottom of the mouth region illustrated in
The indicated thickness and height of the clip will define a height to thickness ratio for this section of the periphery of the clip of between 10 and 100.
In some versions, the flexible clip may include a lip seal 5550, such as the examples illustrated in
The interfacing between the second clip (or more rigid clip) and the mask frame is also shown in
The performance characteristics (how it behaves under load, e.g., increase/decrease in sealing force) can be altered in the individual sections of the flexible clip by modifying any one or more the following: material properties, soft clip thickness, overall flexible clip height and width and/or soft clip geometry.
Generally, unlike the foam cushion which may be permeable to air, the first clip is typically not made of foam and can itself be air impermeable or impermeable to air. The first clip is considered “flexible” or “soft” in that it may be flexible in use or made from an elastic material that will deform under load. This includes but is not limited to, silicone, TPE, TPU and natural rubbers.
TPE material is desirable as it has a higher potential to be adhered to/moulded to the foam and/or the rigid clip.
The manufacturing process for the flexible clip may include injection moulding. It may be moulded with any one or more of the following techniques. It may be moulded as a separate component. It may be overmoulded onto another component or components such as any one of the hard clip, mask frame and foam cushion. For example, it may be moulded to both the foam and the hard clip.
Depending on the manufacturing process, if the flexible clip is manufactured as a separate component, it could be assembled to the hard clip by one or more techniques. For example, it may be adhered such as with an adhesive, glue or tape. It may be assembled by flame lamination, ultrasonic welding, injection moulding, such as a 2K or two-shot injection molding process that employs multiple (e.g., two) different polymers by a single injection moulding process.
As illustrated in
Generally, the second clip 3814 allows for a harder interface between the flexible clip/foam assembly and the mask frame. Whilst the use of the hard clip may increase usability, it is not essential for the operation of the mask. Alternate attachment mechanisms can be used to attach the cushion assembly to the mask frame. Similarly, a mask assembly may be designed that may not necessarily include a support clip that is not flexible. As mentioned earlier in the text, the use of a larger amount of foam will be necessary in such a case.
An alternative assembly mechanism between the foam cushion and the mask frame, some of which do not include rigid or even flexible clip, may include a tongue and groove geometry between the flexible clip and the mask frame.
In some versions, a portion of the flexible clip may be configured to attach to the mask frame by stretching and gripping a coupling edge of the mask frame. In some examples, the flexible clip may be configured for coupling with the mask frame or rigid clip by an interference fit similar to air-tight food containers. In some versions, the flexible clip and the mask frame may have a tongue and slot interface between them and a secondary lip seal or gasket may be present to prevent air/pressure leak. In some versions, the cushion assembly may be permanently attached to the mask frame. In some versions, an adhesive, such as an adhesive tape, may be employed between the cushion assembly and the mask frame.
The rigid second clip can provide structural integrity to the cushion assembly due to the soft/flexible nature of the flexible clip and foam cushion. The rigid clip can also allow the cushion assembly to maintain its shape even when disassembled from the mask frame.
The hard clip can be made of any suitable rigid material. For example, the second clip may be made from a rigid thermoplastic material. Such materials may include, for example, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), Nylon and/or Polycarbonate.
The second clip may, for example, be manufactured by injection moulding.
Another example foam mask of the present technology may be considered with reference to
The cross sectional geometry of the foam in the side of nose and mouth region may be that of any of the cushion versions described in this specification. However, there may also be a smooth transition between the new nasal bridge and side of nose regions. The recess may be manufactured concurrently with a compression cutting process for the foam cushion, but it can also be formed during a secondary process by, for example, additional compression cutting, thermoforming and/or grinding.
Similar to the prior examples, the mask may include a first clip (e.g., soft/flexible clip) having cross sectional geometries that vary by region of the clip (e.g., nasal bridge region FC-NBR, sides of nose region FC-SNR, sides of mouth region FC-SMR and bottom of mouth region FC-BMR.) Example cross sectional geometries of each of these regions are shown in
The formation of a recess in the foam cushion can be complemented with a reduction of the width of the flexible clip surface supporting the foam cushion in the nasal bridge region. The reduced support increases the compliance and allows the cushion to roll-in, when a pressure is applied, thus further improving the user's comfort in the nasal bridge area.
The cross section shown in
As seen in
The cross section of the clip in this region of the mask as shown in
The height of about 9.46 mm (but may suitably be a height in a range of about 8 mm-20 mm) can give a range of movement necessary to conform to the user's nose. Such a localized increased height in this region allows for, without changing the shape or the thickness of the foam in this region, additional sealing force to be applied to form a better seal around this critical region.
Alternatively, or in addition by combination, to the increased clip height, a similar effect can be achieved through a localised increase at location 7310H in height of the foam cushion in the region of the clip of
Optionally, a ‘c’ shaped geometry may be implemented in this region, but would result in an increase in overall mask footprint.
A cross-sectional geometry as indicated in
This clip cross sectional geometry on both sides of the mouth shown in
Optionally, a ‘c’ shaped geometry design could be used in this area, but would result in an increase in overall mask footprint.
The clip cross sectional geometry shown in
Optionally, a ‘c’ shaped geometry could be implemented in this region, but would result in an increase in overall mask footprint.
Similar to the other versions, the flexible clip as shown in
The engagement of the soft and hard clips is such that an engagement rib 7664 of the hard clip is received in an engagement groove 7666 of the mask frame. There are a number of points along the engagement groove where stop points 7668 are formed to limit the insertion of the engagement rib into the groove. The hard stop can be a continuous ridge or a set of points localized to a number of positions (e.g., 6) about the periphery of the frame. They can be arranged such that, when the clips are in the engaged configuration, the engagement rib abuts against some or all of these stop points and is prevented from entering the engagement groove any further. Apart from limiting the insertion in a vertical direction, the hard stop points may also constrain the horizontal movement of the frame to cushion assembly. This is achieved by at least one, preferably several, of the hard stop points having a recess that receives the engagement rib. As the width of the opening is arranged to tightly receive the rib 7664, the arrangement limits the movement of the clips in horizontal direction.
As seen in
The bottom snap element 8010-2 forms the main interface the user will manipulate during disassembly, and it is sized so a finger can comfortably operate the mechanism. As best seen in
In this version, the engagement mechanism (receiving slot 8014) in the frame does not run fully across the bottom, this is specifically designed so during disassembly the user can slide their finger downwards while maintaining full contact with the hard clip.
Operation/performance of the example masks may be considered in reference to
The cushion is configured to apply a different amount of load or reaction force to individual regions of a user's face. The nasal bridge region ZA is the least loaded as it is the most sensitive region. Then there is an increase in loading in regions ZB and ZC as a more robust seal in this region would decrease the likelihood of leak into the user's eye. In comparison, region ZD and ZE is the most heavily loaded and acts to anchor the cushion to a user's face. There may be uniform loading across regions ZD and ZE, but this can change due to individual user's facial profile.
The cushion has a pivoting motion as the top and bottom headgear straps are tightened or loosened. The approximate pivot axis is shown with the arrow of
As discussed earlier in the text, the cushion may also exhibit a roll-in effect as it is applied to the user's face. As region ZA is depressed by the user's nose bridge, region ZB can roll into the sides of the user's nose, which acts to increase the compliance of the cushion's seal to the user's face. As region ZE is depressed by the user's chin, region ZD rolls into the sides of the user's mouth, forming a more effective anchor as it wraps around the user's face.
Thus, the mask may be configured (for example by virtue of the characteristics of the clip(s) and/or foam cushion) with different degrees of roll-in in different regions of its patient contact surfaces. In the illustrated example of
The degree of roll has been intentionally modified to assist with the comfort and with the efficient sealing of the mask. There are a number of ways to achieve a specific degree of rolling.
Generally, around the periphery of the cushion interface, the plane on which the foam cushion sits, may be angled inwardly to the users face at different angles in a manner to promote degrees of roll-in. Some areas (such as sides of mouth) have a more significant angle in order to facilitate a greater roll-in affect.
The flexibility of the soft (e.g. TPE/Silicone) clip to which the foam cushion is assembled is, broadly, shaped as a right angle beam, hence allowing for inward roll (intended via the inwards angling as described above).
The flexible clip material is selected to be flexible and compliant which can also allow for inwards roll (per the intention and descriptions above).
The degree of support to the foam provided by the underlying flexible clip surface can be changed by ensuring that the supporting surface of the flexible clip extends only partially under the foam surface. Thus, some of the foam surface, usually on the inner side of the mask, can be unsupported (i.e., the foam overhangs the flexible clip). When pressure is applied to the foam, the unsupported surfaces may give-in and facilitate the roll-in effect.
Thus, in some examples, the foam cushion assembly can have parameters that vary in at least some sections of the periphery of the clip and/or assembly, such as:
As previously described, masks may be implemented with a foam cushion whether they are above or below the nose masks as previously described or even nasal only masks. Generally it is desirable to achieve a mask with maximum comfort and compliance/seal performance. Various foam seal forming cushions configurations may be configured to achieve this desire. However, when designing a comfortable foam cushion, there are other trade-offs to consider. One such trade-off is permeability, which is closely associated with the foam's softness and compliance. For achieving desired seal and comfort, a relatively thick layer of foam on the mask can be implemented. Apart from being more heavy and obtrusive, a large layer or foam, even of limited permeability, could be associated with an increased leak and compromise the provided pressure therapy. To address the issues with size and permeability, some versions of the present technology as previously mentioned can employ a flexible intermediary structural component (e.g., clip(s)) between the foam layer and the frame. Such a structure, such as the above described flexible clip(s), attaches to the foam seal forming layer. The balance of rigidity and flexibility of such an intermediary structure (e.g., a flexible clip) can be chosen so that it can serve as a substitute for some of the foam cushion. Thus, a less bulky foam layer can be used. In addition, the clip is generally formed of a non-permeable material. Because of that, and because of the specific concave configurations, discussed earlier in the text, a portion of the clip covers at least a portion of the foam cushion and may reduce the overall leak associated with the foam cushion. The flexible clip may then maintain the benefits of support and compliance, while minimising leak. Some additional optional features of the intermediary structure(s) may be considered with respect to achieving some of the goals of the previously described flexible clips.
One disadvantage of simply providing a foam seal forming layer to a hard clip or a frame/shell of a mask is that it has a risk of bottoming out on the hard/rigid portion. Bottoming out occurs when the foam is compressed to such a degree that the patient starts to feel the rigidity or hardness of the underlying clip or frame/shell of the mask. To address this issue, some examples described throughout this specification introduce a soft/flexible clip that flexes under pressure applied to the mask. The arrangement is such that the flexibility and the compliance of the flexible clip compliments that of the foam layer to improve the overall compliance of the mask.
However, the flexibility nature of these flexible clips need not necessarily be a consequence of particularly flexible materials. For example, the function of the flexible clip may be achieved with a semi-rigid or even rigid clip or mask frame/shell instead to which the foam is applied. In such cases, the flexible response may be introduced by structural features, such as locally thinned or profiled sections, that may form a hinge or gusset on a rigid clip or frame to which the foam is attached. Thus, the foam seal forming layer may be directly attached to a rigid clip that has been designed to have flexible sections with structurally introduced compliance in locations where compliance is needed. Thus, the flexible support clip may be formed by a rigid material and the flexibility may be induced by way of introducing one or more compliance regions, such as by introducing one or more lines of weakness or one or more regions of weakness.
Two different examples of such a configuration are illustrated with respect to
Another example for imparting flexibility into an otherwise rigid or semi-rigid mask plenum chamber can be to implement flexing sections defined in the recessed rigid clip 6758 or mask shell. For example, such a rigid clip coupled to a foam cushion 3810 is illustrated in
In various assemblies described herein, a clip is described as an intermediary structure for applying foam to a mask frame. For example, the foam mask design has been described as having a foam seal forming layer, attached to a flexible clip that is subsequently attached to a hard clip. The hard clip is removably attachable to the mask frame. The frame in this case may be a rigid part of the mask that provides some level of shape and support to the mask structure and allows for headgear tension to be transferred to the seal forming portion to seal on the face.
Another configuration of a foam mask may include a flexible shell or chamber made from a flexible material (such as TPE or Silicone). Such an assembly may be considered with reference to
Although
In this case, the shell 6160 or other mask frame, can include an additional flexible member 6320 peripherally positioned inside the mask plenum chamber and configured to cover at least a portion of the foam cushion when the rigid clip is assembled/coupled to the shell or mask frame as shown in
The flexible member 6320 may be a flexible membrane made of, for example, TPE or silicone and may be attached to the chamber forming walls of the mask shell/frame, or to a rigid clip 6314 attached to the mask shell/frame. This flexible membrane forms a flap that is adapted to, at least when under pressure, interact with the foam and cover at least partially the under-surface of the foam layer when pressure is applied to the mask. Preferably, the flap will not interact with the face of the patient. The implementation of such a non-permeable layer enhances the overall quality of the seal, which otherwise may be at least partially compromised by the at least partially permeable foam layer.
This sealing layer (flexible member 6320) can also enhance the air-spring effect within the chamber. As the foam sealing portion overhangs off the edge of the hard clip or frame to which it is attached, any force applied to the flap also acts on the foam sealing portion. Having the non-permeable flexible flap cover the foam under-surface (plenum chamber side of foam), will allow for pressure to build up and push the foam into a better sealing engagement when pressure from a flow generator is applied to the mask chamber.
A variation of the flexible member 6320 is seen further in
As a general requirement, the contours on the foam layer should maximise comfort and effect a seal by matching a patient's facial profile or facial contour. Thus, the foam seal forming layers may preferably be configured into a desired 3-dimensional (3-D) or desired facial profile.
In one example, the flexible clip is moulded to the desired 3-D shape or facial profile so as to impart this shape to a generally flat foam seal forming layer when it is attached to the foam. Alternatively, a 3-D shaped hard clip can impart 3D shape (e.g., a facial contour) to the flexible clip and the foam sealing layer attached to it.
As shown in the example of
Alternatively, one or more of the illustrated over-clip portions can have a 3-D shape (e.g., facial contour), which can provide the same effect (allow the foam to bulge in certain areas and press the foam down in other areas).
Although the cushions described for masks herein may be implemented with many different foam materials, foams with certain performance properties may be particularly well suited when implemented for respiratory treatments given the critical need to promote patient compliance and to ensure effective delivery of medical treatments. In this regard, particularly suitable foams may be characterized by any one or more of its permeability (Liters/min), indentation hardness (Newtons (N)), compression stress strain (Kilo-pascals (Kpa)), density (kilograms per meters3 (kg/m3)), dynamic coefficient of friction (calculated friction (cf)), compression set (percent (%)), tensile strength (Megapascal (Mpa)), elongation@break (Percent (%)) and/or tear strength (Newtons/millimeter (N/mm)).
For example, the foam cushion may be configured to have a particular permeability characteristic. The permeability characteristic of the foam may be a measure of the rate of air flowing through a given sample in Liters/minute. Such permeability may be determined by the following permeability test. A test piece can be cut from a piece of foam with a die or a sharp knife into an annular shape (i.e., a ring-shaped geometric foam sample or square sectioned toroid). The test piece is cut nominal to the cell rise direction from a foam sample manufactured at least 72 hours prior. The ring has a height of 25 mm (plus or minus 1.0 mm) from the bottom of the ring to the top in the cell rise direction. The inner open cylinder of the foam ring has that height and a diameter of 70 mm (plus or minus 1.0 mm). The outer edge of the foam ring has a diameter of 110 mm (plus or minus 1.0 mm). Test pieces are free from skin voids and densification lines. The test piece will be in good condition without any visible defects such as burrs, delaminating, tears etc. The test then measures the air flow through the annulus of the foam ring having its constant cross section. The circular shape ensures the pressure is evenly distributed and the foam inflates uniformly. The foam test ring is conditioned, undeflected and undistorted, for at least sixteen hours in an atmosphere of temperature at 23±2° C. and relative humidity at 50±5% prior to testing. The ring may be compressed between plates in a manner to reduce the height of the ring from 25 mm to 17.5 mm during flow testing. A constant air pressure of 20 cm H2O, such as from a flow generator, is applied to the center of the foam ring. Air flow through the ring from the center outward across the foam is then measured with a flow meter in liters/minute. Foam cushions suitable for the present technology may have a permeability characteristic in a range of about 0 to 20 L/m and may preferably have a permeability characteristic in a range of about 0 to 3 L/m.
The foam cushion may be configured to have a particular indentation hardness (IDF) characteristic. This characteristic relates to the firmness or stiffness of the material. This characteristic has a significant correlation to comfort, seal and stability needs. Generally, the lower the IDF—the softer the material. Testing may be in general accordance with BS EN ISO 2439:2008 (method C)—determination of 40% indentation hardness check by compression of samples by 40% of its thickness and recoding the maximum force (N). Foam cushions suitable for the present technology may have an indentation hardness (IDF) characteristic in a range of about 110.48 to 303.11 N, and may preferably have an indentation hardness (IDF) characteristic in a range of about 122.76 to 275.55 N, and still further may more preferably have an indentation hardness (IDF) characteristic in a range of about 143.1-198.88 N.
The foam cushion may be configured to have a particular compression stress strain characteristic. This characteristic relates to how the foam material deflects under stress or load. This characteristic has a significant correlation to comfort, seal and stability needs. The compression stress-strain may be determined in accordance with BS EN ISO 3386:1997+A1:210. The test speed may be 100 mm/minute. Stress at a compression of 40% may be calculated. Foam cushions suitable for the present technology may have a compression stress-strain characteristic in a range of about 2.32 to 7.26 Kpa, and may preferably have a compression stress-strain characteristic in a range of about 2.574 to 6.6 Kpa, and still further may more preferably have a compression stress-strain characteristic in a range of about 3.15 to 4.29 Kpa.
The foam cushion may be configured to have a particular density characteristic. This characteristic relates to the weight, firmness, “plushness” or tactile “feel” of the material. This characteristic has a significant correlation to comfort, seal and stability needs. The apparent density may be determined in accordance with BS EN ISO 845:2009. Using measured dimensions (mm) and the weight (g) the density (kg/m3) can be calculated. Foam cushions suitable for the present technology may have a density characteristic in a range of about 24.3 to 117.85 kg/m3, and may preferably have a density characteristic in a range of about 27 to 107.14 kg/m3, and still further may more preferably have a density characteristic in a range of about 50.76 to 66.11 kg/m3.
The foam cushion may be configured to have a particular dynamic coefficient of friction characteristic. This characteristic relates to comfort on face and perception of comfort in the hand. This characteristic has a significant correlation to the surface feel or texture of the material. This characteristic has a moderate correlation to seal and stability as a result of relationship between the patient's skin and surface finish of the material. The dynamic coefficient of friction may be determined in accordance with BS EN ISO 8295:2004. Test pieces may be tested under a load of 1.96 N and a speed of 30 mm/minute on a glass substrate at a temperature of 37° C. to 39° C. Force readings may be measured and friction calculated. Foam cushions suitable for the present technology may have a dynamic coefficient of friction characteristic in a range of about 1.86 to 19.12 CF, and may preferably have a dynamic coefficient of friction characteristic in a range of about 2.07 to 17.38 CF, and still further may more preferably have a dynamic coefficient of friction characteristic in a range of about 2.43 to 2.97 CF.
The foam cushion may be configured to have a particular compression set characteristic. This characteristic relates to the ability of the foam to recover to its original state post compression and conditioning. If the foam has high/poor compression set it will no longer act as a dynamic seal. If the foam has no compression set, coupled with a strong resilience to deterioration, it will be useable for a long period. The compression set may be determined in accordance with BS EN ISO 1856:2001. Test spacers may be selected to give a compression of nominally 50% and 75% to each specimen. Compression may occur for a period of time (e.g., 22 hours) at certain temperature and relative humidity (e.g., 22 hours at 23° C. (plus or minus 2° C.) and 10% R.H.; and 22 hours at 70° C. (plus or minus 1° C.). After unclamping the test specimens, they may be allowed to recover for 30 minutes at 23° C. (plus or minus 2° C.) before being re-measured and the compression set % being calculated. Foam cushions suitable for the present technology may have a compression set characteristic in a range of about 0.16 to 17.3%, and may preferably have a compression set characteristic in a range of about 0.18 to 15.73%, and still further may more preferably have a compression set characteristic in a range of about 3.06 to 4.4%.
The foam cushion may be configured to have a particular tensile strength characteristic. This characteristic relates to the force required to break the foam. This has a moderate correlation to stability and seal. If the cushion has poor tensile strength, it will fail causing leak and poor stability. The tensile strength may be determined in accordance with BS EN ISO 1798:2008 at a tensile test speed of 500 mm/minute. Load may be recorded and the elongation may be determined by laser extensometry. Foam cushions suitable for the present technology may have a tensile strength characteristic in a range of about 0.03 to 0.27 Mpa, and may preferably have a tensile strength characteristic in a range of about 0.036 to 0.242 Mpa, and still further may more preferably have a tensile strength characteristic in a range of about 0.117 to 0.143 Mpa.
The foam cushion may be configured to have a particular elongation@ (at) break characteristic. This characteristic relates the foams ability to elongate before failing. This characteristic has a moderate correlation to stability and seal, as per tensile strength. Foam cushions suitable for the present technology may have an elongation@break characteristic in a range of about 72.9 to 369.05%, and may preferably have a elongation@break characteristic in a range of about 81 to 335.5%, and still further may more preferably have a elongation@break characteristic in a range of about 243 to 335.5%.
The foam cushion may be configured to have a particular tear strength characteristic. This characteristic relates to the foams ability to resist tear under tension. There is a moderate correlation of this characteristic to stability and seal, as per tensile strength and elongation at break. The tear strength may be determined in accordance with BS EN ISO 8067:2008 (method A) at a test speed of 50 mm/minute. Foam cushions suitable for the present technology may have a tear strength characteristic in a range of about 0.07 to 0.69 N/mm, and may preferably have a tear strength characteristic in a range of about 0.081 to 0.627 N/mm, and still further may more preferably have a tear strength characteristic in a range of about 0.225 to 0.297 N/mm.
Although the cushion assembly with the clip(s) described for masks herein may be implemented with many different materials, foam and clip combinations with certain performance properties may be particularly well suited when implemented for respiratory treatments given the critical need to promote patient compliance and to ensure effective delivery of medical treatments. In this regard, particularly suitable cushion assemblies may be characterized by a spring constant characteristic.
In this regard, the spring rate of the cushion assemblies of the present technology, which may be perceived as hardness of the cushion assembly, is more than just a sum of its parts. The parts (e.g., flexible clip and foam cushion) work together to produce a final synergetic effect. Both the foam and the underlying flexible clip can be tuned to each other. For example, if the characteristics of one changes, performance of the whole assembly/system changes. Moreover, the spring rate characteristics of the cushion and the clip assembly (e.g., cushion and flexible clip) can be different at set locations. The spring rate, also known as the spring constant or “k value”, may be the force produced per millimeter of deformation of a linear spring and may be determined by equation F=kX. For example, the spring rate may be determined by aligning a probe to act at a particular test location of the cushion/clip assembly, and may be perpendicular to the surface of the frame. The probe may be driven into the location (such as at 50 mm/min). The probe may be stopped when the force exceeds some limit (e.g., 10N). The force/displacement results may be recorded and graphed.
In relation to such a spring constant, example mask assemblies of the present technology are illustrated in the table below. These include a flexible clip+foam cushion assembly, denoted with FC and similar to that of
Spring constants were determined in various places of the cushion including bottom center, side of mouth region (points “corner 1” and “corner 2” are on the same side of the mouth with about a 0.5 cm offset from each other in lateral direction), cheek bone region and three vertically aligned points along the nasal bridge region (points nasal bridge 1, nasal bridge 2 and nasal bridge 3 are offset with respect to each other with about 0.5 cm in vertical direction). The spring constant data in the table is summarized in Newtons per millimeter (N/mm). The table indicates for the (foam+clip) assembly with a sculpted nasal recess, a greater spring constant in a mouth region (e.g., side of mouth regions) than in a nasal region (e.g., nasal bridge region) and similar spring constants in a nasal region and a cheek bone region. For the flexible clip only configuration (SC), the table indicates similar spring constants in a nasal region and the corners of the mouth region. It further illustrates a greater spring constant in a cheek region than a nasal region (e.g., nasal bridge region) but a lesser spring constant in a cheek region (e.g., cheek bone region) than a mouth region (e.g., sides of mouth region).
The average numbers in the table are averaged over several samples. Each of the minimum and the maximum numbers correspond to a single measurement shown the smallest or the largest value for the particular location, respectively.
indicates data missing or illegible when filed
For the purposes of the present technology disclosure, in certain forms of the present technology, one or more of the following definitions may apply. In other forms of the present technology, alternative definitions may apply.
Air: In certain forms of the present technology, air supplied to a patient may be atmospheric air, and in other forms of the present technology atmospheric air may be supplemented with oxygen.
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP): CPAP treatment will be taken to mean the application of a supply of air or breathable gas to the entrance to the airways at a pressure that is continuously positive with respect to atmosphere, and preferably approximately constant through a respiratory cycle of a patient. In some forms, the pressure at the entrance to the airways will vary by a few centimeters of water within a single respiratory cycle, for example being higher during inhalation and lower during exhalation. In some forms, the pressure at the entrance to the airways will be slightly higher during exhalation, and slightly lower during inhalation. In some forms, the pressure will vary between different respiratory cycles of the patient, for example being increased in response to detection of indications of partial upper airway obstruction, and decreased in the absence of indications of partial upper airway obstruction.
Ala: the external outer wall or “wing” of each nostril (plural: alar)
Alare: The most lateral point on the nasal ala.
Alar curvature (or alar crest) point: The most posterior point in the curved base line of each ala, found in the crease formed by the union of the ala with the cheek.
Auricula or Pinna: The whole external visible part of the ear.
(nose) Bony framework: The bony framework of the nose comprises the nasal bones, the frontal process of the maxillae and the nasal part of the frontal bone.
(nose) Cartilaginous framework: The cartilaginous framework of the nose comprises the septal, lateral, major and minor cartilages.
Columella: the strip of skin that separates the nares and which runs from the pronasale to the upper lip.
Columella angle: The angle between the line drawn through the midpoint of the nostril aperture and a line drawn perpendicular to the Frankfurt horizontal while intersecting subnasale.
Frankfort horizontal plane: A line extending from the most inferior point of the orbital margin to the left tragion. The tragion is the deepest point in the notch superior to the tragus of the auricle.
Glabella: Located on the soft tissue, the most prominent point in the midsagittal plane of the forehead.
Lateral nasal cartilage: A generally triangular plate of cartilage. Its superior margin is attached to the nasal bone and frontal process of the maxilla, and its inferior margin is connected to the greater alar cartilage.
Greater alar cartilage: A plate of cartilage lying below the lateral nasal cartilage. It is curved around the anterior part of the naris. Its posterior end is connected to the frontal process of the maxilla by a tough fibrous membrane containing three or four minor cartilages of the ala.
Nares (Nostrils): Approximately ellipsoidal apertures forming the entrance to the nasal cavity. The singular form of nares is naris (nostril). The nares are separated by the nasal septum.
Naso-labial sulcus or Naso-labial fold: The skin fold or groove that runs from each side of the nose to the corners of the mouth, separating the cheeks from the upper lip.
Naso-labial angle: The angle between the columella and the upper lip, while intersecting subnasale.
Otobasion inferior: The lowest point of attachment of the auricle to the skin of the face.
Otobasion superior: The highest point of attachment of the auricle to the skin of the face.
Pronasale: the most protruded point or tip of the nose, which can be identified in lateral view of the rest of the portion of the head.
Philtrum: the midline groove that runs from lower border of the nasal septum to the top of the lip in the upper lip region.
Pogonion: Located on the soft tissue, the most anterior midpoint of the chin.
Ridge (nasal): The nasal ridge is the midline prominence of the nose, extending from the Sellion to the Pronasale.
Sagittal plane: A vertical plane that passes from anterior (front) to posterior (rear) dividing the body into right and left halves.
Sellion: Located on the soft tissue, the most concave point overlying the area of the frontonasal suture.
Septal cartilage (nasal): The nasal septal cartilage forms part of the septum and divides the front part of the nasal cavity.
Subalare: The point at the lower margin of the alar base, where the alar base joins with the skin of the superior (upper) lip.
Subnasal point: Located on the soft tissue, the point at which the columella merges with the upper lip in the midsagittal plane.
Supramentale: The point of greatest concavity in the midline of the lower lip between labrale inferius and soft tissue pogonion.
Frontal bone: The frontal bone includes a large vertical portion, the squama frontalis, corresponding to the region known as the forehead.
Mandible: The mandible forms the lower jaw. The mental protuberance is the bony protuberance of the jaw that forms the chin.
Maxilla: The maxilla forms the upper jaw and is located above the mandible and below the orbits. The frontal process of the maxilla projects upwards by the side of the nose, and forms part of its lateral boundary.
Nasal bones: The nasal bones are two small oblong bones, varying in size and form in different individuals; they are placed side by side at the middle and upper part of the face, and form, by their junction, the “bridge” of the nose.
Nasion: The intersection of the frontal bone and the two nasal bones, a depressed area directly between the eyes and superior to the bridge of the nose.
Occipital bone: The occipital bone is situated at the back and lower part of the cranium. It includes an oval aperture, the foramen magnum, through which the cranial cavity communicates with the vertebral canal. The curved plate behind the foramen magnum is the squama occipitalis.
Orbit: The bony cavity in the skull to contain the eyeball.
Parietal bones: The parietal bones are the bones that, when joined together, form the roof and sides of the cranium.
Temporal bones: The temporal bones are situated on the bases and sides of the skull, and support that part of the face known as the temple.
Zygomatic bones: The face includes two zygomatic bones, located in the upper and lateral parts of the face and forming the prominence of the cheek.
Diaphragm: A sheet of muscle that extends across the bottom of the rib cage. The diaphragm separates the thoracic cavity, containing the heart, lungs and ribs, from the abdominal cavity. As the diaphragm contracts the volume of the thoracic cavity increases and air is drawn into the lungs.
Larynx: The larynx, or voice box houses the vocal folds and connects the inferior part of the pharynx (hypopharynx) with the trachea.
Lungs: The organs of respiration in humans. The conducting zone of the lungs contains the trachea, the bronchi, the bronchioles, and the terminal bronchioles. The respiratory zone contains the respiratory bronchioles, the alveolar ducts, and the alveoli.
Nasal cavity: The nasal cavity (or nasal fossa) is a large air filled space above and behind the nose in the middle of the face. The nasal cavity is divided in two by a vertical fin called the nasal septum. On the sides of the nasal cavity are three horizontal outgrowths called nasal conchae (singular “concha”) or turbinates. To the front of the nasal cavity is the nose, while the back blends, via the choanae, into the nasopharynx.
Pharynx: The part of the throat situated immediately inferior to (below) the nasal cavity, and superior to the oesophagus and larynx. The pharynx is conventionally divided into three sections: the nasopharynx (epipharynx) (the nasal part of the pharynx), the oropharynx (mesopharynx) (the oral part of the pharynx), and the laryngopharynx (hypopharynx).
Silicone or Silicone Elastomer: A synthetic rubber. In this specification, a reference to silicone is a reference to liquid silicone rubber (LSR) or a compression moulded silicone rubber (CMSR). One form of commercially available LSR is SILASTIC (included in the range of products sold under this trademark), manufactured by Dow Corning. Another manufacturer of LSR is Wacker. Unless otherwise specified to the contrary, a preferred form of LSR has a Shore A (or Type A) indentation hardness in the range of about 35 to about 45 as measured using ASTM D2240
Polycarbonate: a typically transparent thermoplastic polymer of Bisphenol-A Carbonate.
Anti-asphyxia valve (AAV): The component or sub-assembly of a mask system that, by opening to atmosphere in a failsafe manner, reduces the risk of excessive CO2 rebreathing by a patient.
Elbow: A conduit that directs an axis of flow of air to change direction through an angle. In one form, the angle may be approximately 90 degrees. In another form, the angle may be less than 90 degrees. The conduit may have an approximately circular cross-section. In another form the conduit may have an oval or rectangular cross-section.
Frame: Frame will be taken to mean a mask structure that bears the load of tension between two or more points of connection with a headgear. A mask frame may be a non-airtight load bearing structure in the mask. However, some forms of mask frame may also be air-tight.
Headgear: Headgear will be taken to mean a form of positioning and stabilizing structure designed for use on a head. Preferably the headgear comprises a collection of one or more struts, ties and stiffeners configured to locate and retain a patient interface in position on a patient's face for delivery of respiratory therapy. Some ties are formed of a soft, flexible, elastic material such as a laminated composite of foam and fabric.
Membrane: Membrane will be taken to mean a typically thin element that has, preferably, substantially no resistance to bending, but has resistance to being stretched.
Plenum chamber: a mask plenum chamber will be taken to a mean portion of a patient interface having walls enclosing a volume of space, the volume having air therein pressurised above atmospheric pressure in use. A shell may form part of the walls of a mask plenum chamber. In one form, a region of the patient's face forms one of the walls of the plenum chamber.
Seal: The noun form (“a seal”) will be taken to mean a structure or barrier that intentionally resists the flow of air through the interface of two surfaces. The verb form (“to seal”) will be taken to mean to resist a flow of air.
Shell: A shell will preferably be taken to mean a curved structure having bending, tensile and compressive stiffness, for example, a portion of a mask that forms a curved structural wall of the mask. Preferably, compared to its overall dimensions it is relatively thin. In some forms, a shell may be faceted. Preferably such walls are airtight, although in some forms they may not be airtight.
Stiffener: A stiffener will be taken to mean a structural component designed to increase the bending resistance of another component in at least one direction.
Strut: A strut will be taken to be a structural component designed to increase the compression resistance of another component in at least one direction.
Swivel: (noun) A subassembly of components configured to rotate about a common axis, preferably independently, preferably under low torque. In one form, the swivel may be constructed to rotate through an angle of at least 360 degrees. In another form, the swivel may be constructed to rotate through an angle less than 360 degrees. When used in the context of an air delivery conduit, the sub-assembly of components preferably comprises a matched pair of cylindrical conduits. Preferably there is little or no leak flow of air from the swivel in use.
Tie: A tie will be taken to be a structural component designed to resist tension.
Vent: (noun) the structure that allows a deliberate controlled rate leak of air from an interior of the mask, or conduit to ambient air, to allow washout of exhaled carbon dioxide (CO2) and supply of oxygen (O2).
Curvature (of a surface): A region of a surface having a saddle shape, which curves up in one direction and curves down in a different direction, will be said to have a negative curvature. A region of a surface having a dome shape, which curves the same way in two principle directions, will be said to have a positive curvature. A flat surface will be taken to have zero curvature.
Floppy: A quality of a material, structure or composite that is the combination of features of:
The quality of being floppy may have an associated direction, hence a particular material, structure or composite may be floppy in a first direction, but stiff or rigid in a second direction, for example a second direction that is orthogonal to the first direction.
Resilient: Able to deform substantially elastically, and to release substantially all of the energy upon unloading, within a relatively short period of time such as 1 second.
Rigid: Not readily deforming to finger pressure, and/or the tensions or loads typically encountered when setting up and maintaining a patient interface in sealing relationship with an entrance to a patient's airways.
Semi-rigid: means being sufficiently rigid to not substantially distort under the effects of mechanical forces typically applied during positive airway pressure therapy.
A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material which is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.
Unless the context clearly dictates otherwise and where a range of values is provided, it is understood that each intervening value, to the tenth of the unit of the lower limit, between the upper and lower limit of that range, and any other stated or intervening value in that stated range is encompassed within the technology. The upper and lower limits of these intervening ranges, which may be independently included in the intervening ranges, are also encompassed within the technology, subject to any specifically excluded limit in the stated range. Where the stated range includes one or both of the limits, ranges excluding either or both of those included limits are also included in the technology.
Furthermore, where a value or values are stated herein as being implemented as part of the technology, it is understood that such values may be approximated, unless otherwise stated, and such values may be utilized to any suitable significant digit to the extent that a practical technical implementation may permit or require it.
Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this technology belongs. Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can also be used in the practice or testing of the present technology, a limited number of the exemplary methods and materials are described herein.
When a particular material is identified as being preferably used to construct a component, obvious alternative materials with similar properties may be used as a substitute.
It must be noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include their plural equivalents, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
All publications mentioned herein are incorporated by reference to disclose and describe the methods and/or materials which are the subject of those publications. The publications discussed herein are provided solely for their disclosure prior to the filing date of the present application. Nothing herein is to be construed as an admission that the present technology is not entitled to antedate such publication by virtue of prior invention. Further, the dates of publication provided may be different from the actual publication dates, which may need to be independently confirmed.
Moreover, in interpreting the disclosure, all terms should be interpreted in the broadest reasonable manner consistent with the context. In particular, the terms “comprises” and “comprising” should be interpreted as referring to elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced elements, components, or steps may be present, or utilized, or combined with other elements, components, or steps that are not expressly referenced.
The expressions “soft” and “flexible”, as well as their derivatives, when used in this specification to describe the first support clip 3812 (
The subject headings used in the detailed description are included only for the ease of reference of the reader and should not be used to limit the subject matter found throughout the disclosure or the claims. The subject headings should not be used in construing the scope of the claims or the claim limitations.
Although the technology herein has been described with reference to particular embodiments, it is to be understood that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles and applications of the technology. In some instances, the terminology and symbols may imply specific details that are not required to practice the technology. For example, although the terms “first” and “second” may be used, unless otherwise specified, they are not intended to indicate any order but may be utilised to distinguish between distinct elements. Furthermore, although process steps in the methodologies may be described or illustrated in an order, such an ordering is not required. Those skilled in the art will recognize that such ordering may be modified and/or aspects thereof may be conducted concurrently or even synchronously.
It is therefore to be understood that numerous modifications may be made to the illustrative embodiments and that other arrangements may be devised without departing from the spirit and scope of the technology.
| Number | Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2013900348 | Feb 2013 | AU | national |
| 2013900349 | Feb 2013 | AU | national |
This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/345,843 filed Jun. 11, 2021, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/137,649, filed Sep. 21, 2018, now U.S. Pat. No. 11,033,704, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/765,492, filed Aug. 3, 2015, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,188,820, which is a national phase entry under 35 U.S.C. § 371 of International Application PCT/AU2014/000077 filed Feb. 4, 2014, published in English, which claims priority from Australian Provisional Patent Application Nos. 2013900349 filed Feb. 4, 2013 and 2013900348 filed Feb. 4, 2013, the disclosures of all of which are incorporated herein by reference.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 17345843 | Jun 2021 | US |
| Child | 18631186 | US | |
| Parent | 16137649 | Sep 2018 | US |
| Child | 17345843 | US | |
| Parent | 14765492 | Aug 2015 | US |
| Child | 16137649 | US |
