U.S. patent application number 16/888539 was filed with the patent office on 2020-09-17 for headgear for breathing mask.
The applicant listed for this patent is FISHER & PAYKEL HEALTHCARE LIMITED. Invention is credited to Peter David Alexander Bearne, Michael John Henri Cox, Fadi Karim Moh'd Mashal, Kirstin Elizabeth Middelkoop, Blair Raymund Dadson Murphy, Roheet Patel.
Application Number | 20200289777 16/888539 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000004860496 |
Filed Date | 2020-09-17 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20200289777 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Bearne; Peter David Alexander ;
et al. |
September 17, 2020 |
HEADGEAR FOR BREATHING MASK
Abstract
An interface assembly includes an interface, such as a mask,
that is secured to a head using a headgear assembly. The headgear
assembly can include at least one halo portion and a plurality of
straps. The headgear assembly can include both a front halo portion
and a rear halo portion. In some arrangements, the headgear and
mask define an adjustable closed loop. In some arrangements, the
headgear can include one or more rigid portions that contact the
user's face to at least partially isolate a seal of the mask from
tightening forces applied to the headgear. In some arrangements,
the mask is an oral-nasal mask and the headgear applies a force to
the mask comprising an upward force component. In some
arrangements, the headgear can be contoured to the user's head.
Inventors: |
Bearne; Peter David Alexander;
(Auckland, NZ) ; Patel; Roheet; (Auckland, NZ)
; Middelkoop; Kirstin Elizabeth; (Auckland, NZ) ;
Mashal; Fadi Karim Moh'd; (Auckland, NZ) ; Cox;
Michael John Henri; (Auckland, NZ) ; Murphy; Blair
Raymund Dadson; (Auckland, NZ) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
FISHER & PAYKEL HEALTHCARE LIMITED |
Auckland |
|
NZ |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000004860496 |
Appl. No.: |
16/888539 |
Filed: |
May 29, 2020 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
14786957 |
Oct 23, 2015 |
10668242 |
|
|
PCT/NZ2014/000075 |
Apr 28, 2014 |
|
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16888539 |
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61816602 |
Apr 26, 2013 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61M 16/0683 20130101;
A61M 16/06 20130101; A62B 18/084 20130101; A61M 16/0616
20140204 |
International
Class: |
A61M 16/06 20060101
A61M016/06; A62B 18/08 20060101 A62B018/08 |
Claims
1-70. (canceled)
71. An interface assembly, comprising: a nasal-oral mask; and a
headgear; wherein the mask comprises: a seal that is configured to
seal around a mouth of a user and on an underside of a nose of the
user; a frame supporting the seal; and a support portion that
extends upwardly from the frame and supports an upper portion of
the seal, the support portion being positioned on a lateral side of
the upper portion of the seal to support the seal and configured to
maintain the seal in contact with the user's nose when the seal is
pressurized; wherein the support portion is removably coupled to
the frame; and wherein the headgear is coupled to the mask at one
or more mounting points and comprises a first strap portion
provided on each side of the headgear to connect the mask to a rear
portion of the headgear.
72. The interface assembly of claim 71, wherein the first strap
portions on each side of the headgear are configured to pass below
an ear of the user.
73. The interface assembly of claim 71, wherein each strap portion
is rotatably coupled to the mask.
74. The interface assembly of claim 71, wherein the support
portions comprise paddles.
74. The interface assembly of claim 74, wherein the paddles
comprise silicone.
76. The interface assembly of claim 74, wherein the paddles are a
portion of or connected to the frame.
77. The interface assembly of claim 71, wherein the headgear
further comprises a top strap that extends upwardly from a center
of the mask.
78. The interface assembly of claim 71, wherein the first strap
portions comprise arms rotatably coupled to the mask, the arms
comprising an adjustment arrangement, the adjustment arrangement
comprising a first arm portion and a second arm portion slidably or
telescopically engaged with one another, the adjustment arrangement
comprising a lock arrangement.
79. The interface assembly of claim 71, wherein the rear portion
comprises a halo portion.
80. The interface assembly of claim 79, wherein the rear portion
comprises a cradle structure that extends in a vertical direction
along the back of the user's head.
81. The interface assembly of claim 71, wherein the support portion
is a portion of the frame.
82. The interface assembly of claim 71, wherein the interface
assembly comprises a clip comprising a hook-shaped end portion
between the mask and the headgear.
83. An interface assembly, comprising: a nasal-oral mask; and a
headgear coupled to the mask at one or more mounting points;
wherein the mask comprises: a frame; a seal that is configured to
seal around a mouth of a user and on an underside of a nose of the
user; and a support that extends upwardly from the frame along each
side of a nose portion of the seal to provide lateral support to
the nose portion of the seal, the support portion being removably
coupled to the frame.
84. The interface assembly of claim 83, wherein the supports are
permanently coupled to the frame.
85. The interface assembly of claim 83, wherein the supports are
removably coupled to the frame.
86. The interface assembly of claim 83, wherein the headgear
comprises a lower strap portion and an upper strap portion provided
on each side of the headgear to connect the mask to a rear portion
of the headgear.
87. The interface assembly of claim 86, wherein the lower strap and
the upper strap on at least one side of the mask are coupled to the
mask by a single clip.
88. The interface assembly of claim 87, wherein the clip and the
frame are configured in a complementary manner to facilitate
location of the clip for engagement with the mask and/or to inhibit
undesired disengagement of the clip from the mask.
89. The interface assembly of claim 88, wherein the frame comprises
one or more edges that cooperate to define a recess for receiving
the clip.
90. The interface assembly of claim 86, wherein the mask comprises
an opening for at least one of the upper and lower strap portions
to pass through.
91. The interface assembly of claim 83, wherein the headgear
comprises upper and lower straps, the upper strap comprising or
being coupled to a crown strap and an upper rear strap, the lower
strap comprising or being coupled to a rear portion.
Description
INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE TO ANY PRIORITY APPLICATIONS
[0001] Any and all applications for which a foreign or domestic
priority claim is identified in the Application Data Sheet as filed
with the present application are hereby incorporated by reference
and made a part of the present disclosure.
BACKGROUND
Field
[0002] The present invention generally relates to headgear of
breathing masks. More particularly, certain aspects of the present
invention relate to headgear used with breathing masks that seal
under the nose and around the mouth.
Description of the Related Art
[0003] Breathing masks come in many different configurations. To
secure the breathing masks to the user, headgear can be attached to
the masks. While different styles of headgear are available, the
headgear and the breathing masks ideally cooperate to provide a
desired interface assembly.
SUMMARY
[0004] In some configurations, masks can be provided that seal
around a mouth of a user and on an underside of a nose of the user.
Such a mask can provide pressurized air flow to both the nose and
the mouth of the user. In some configurations, the mask may omit a
forehead support, which is different from many of the nasal masks
and many of the oral-nasal masks available in the market.
[0005] With such masks, the headgear has to overcome one or more of
a number of challenges. For instance, the nasal sealing surface
should be secured up against the lower surface of the user's nose.
Securing the nasal sealing surface against the nose helps achieve
an effective seal without applying excessive force to the nose. To
achieve this, the headgear can provide a force to the mask that is
at least partially perpendicular to the underside of the nose.
[0006] In some configurations, the lack of a forehead support means
that the mask may be prone to rocking on the face. In such
configurations, the headgear can hold the seal against the face
evenly in such a manner that the likelihood is reduced of
significant rocking of the top away from the nose or movement of
the bottom of the mask away from the chin.
[0007] An aspect involves an interface assembly including a mask
and a headgear. The mask includes a seal that surrounds and
delivers a flow of breathing gas to a mouth of a user. The headgear
secures the mask to the face of the user. The headgear includes
relatively rigid portions that contact the cheeks of the user and
support the mask relative to the face of the user. The relatively
rigid portions have sufficient rigidity to maintain a position of
the mask and limit compression of the seal in response to
tightening of the headgear.
[0008] In some configurations, a cheek pad positioned on at least a
skin-contacting side of each of the relatively rigid portions. The
cheek pad can be contoured. The cheek pad can surround the
relatively rigid portion.
[0009] In some configurations, the headgear further comprises an
upper arm or strap extending rearwardly from each of the relatively
rigid portions toward a location generally above the user's
ear.
[0010] In some configurations, the headgear includes a rear halo
portion surrounding a parietal region of the user's head and
coupled to the upper arms or straps. A portion of the rear halo
portion, the upper arms or straps, and the mask can cooperate to
form a front halo portion.
[0011] In some configurations, the headgear comprises a crown
strap, which forms a part of each of the front halo portion and the
rear halo portion, and a rear strap, which forms a part of the rear
halo portion.
[0012] In some configurations, at least portions of the upper arm,
the crown strap and the rear strap are constructed from a
relatively rigid material or a relatively non-stretch material.
[0013] In some configurations, the headgear includes a pair of
rigid sections, each rigid section comprising an upper arm, a
portion of the crown strap and a portion of the rear strap, wherein
each of the crown strap and the rear strap comprises adjustment
arrangements that connect the rigid sections to one another and
permit adjustment of the front halo portion and the rear halo
portion. The adjustment arrangements can comprise flexible
straps.
[0014] In some configurations, each of the rigid sections is
covered by a soft material padding. The soft material padding can
be overmolded onto the rigid sections.
[0015] In some configurations, the mask is supported relative to
the headgear by a rotational coupling. The mask can be secured in a
rotational position relative to the headgear. The mask can be
secured in the rotational position by a lock or detent mechanism
incorporated into the rotational coupling. In some configurations,
the mask is secured in the rotational position by a strap of the
headgear.
[0016] In some configurations, at least one quick-release mechanism
permits separation of two portions of the interface assembly to
open or increase a circumference of the interface assembly. The
quick-release mechanism can include a tether between the two
portions of the interface assembly. The tether can be elastic. In
some configurations, the quick-release mechanism comprises a clip
that connects the headgear to the mask. The clip can define at
least two spaced engagement points with the mask. In some
configurations, a magnetic coupling guides the clip into position
relative to the mask. The quick-release mechanism can include a
clip that connects the headgear to the mask, and the tether can be
hidden between the clip and the mask when the clip is secured to
the mask. In some configurations, the quick-release mechanism
comprises a release buckle.
[0017] In some configurations, a position of the seal is adjustable
relative to a frame or support structure of the mask to which the
relatively rigid portions are connected. A dial adjuster can be
provided that adjusts the position of the seal.
[0018] An aspect involves an interface assembly including a mask
and a headgear. The mask includes a seal that surrounds and
delivers a flow of breathing gas to a mouth of a user. The headgear
secures the mask to the user's face. A closed loop adjustment
mechanism couples a first portion of the interface assembly to a
second portion of the interface assembly and is movable between a
contracted orientation and an elongated orientation to vary an
overall circumference of the interface assembly while maintaining a
closed loop. In the contracted orientation, the mask is supported
against the face of the user and, in the elongated orientation, the
interface assembly can be applied to or removed from the head of
the user. At least a portion of the closed loop adjustment
mechanism is located on the mask.
[0019] In some configurations, the closed loop adjustment mechanism
comprises a loop that forms a portion of the circumference of the
interface assembly, wherein the loop can be secured to the mask at
first and second spaced locations to define a first section length,
and wherein the loop can be disconnected from the second location
to define a second section length that is greater than the first
section length to increase the circumference of the interface
assembly. In some configurations, the second location can be a
retention cleat that the loop can be looped around. In some
configurations, the second location can be an opening or bar that
is engaged by a clip connected to the loop. The first location can
be a friction guide through which the loop passes, wherein the
friction guide frictionally engages the loop to maintain a desired
relative position between the loop and the mask in response to
normal operational forces.
[0020] In some configurations, the closed loop adjustment mechanism
comprises a clip that connects the headgear to the mask. The clip
can define at least two spaced engagement points with the mask. In
some configurations, a magnetic coupling that guides the clip into
position relative to the mask. The closed loop adjustment mechanism
can include a tether between the clip and the mask. In some
configurations, the tether is elastic. The closed loop adjustment
can include a clip on each side of the mask and the tether can
extend between the two clips. In some configurations, the tether is
hidden between the clip and the mask when the clip is secured to
the mask.
[0021] In some configurations, the closed loop adjustment mechanism
comprises a folding clasp having multiple segments movable between
an open position and a closed position. In some configurations, at
least two segments of the folding clasp are nested in the closed
position of the folding clasp. In some configurations, one of the
segments defines a generally U-shape and a second one of the
segments is positioned within a central space of the U-shaped
segment in a closed position of the folding clasp. In some
configurations, one of the segments is carried by the mask and a
second one of the segments is carried by the headgear. A locking
adjuster can be provided between the second one of the segments and
the headgear to permit adjustment of a relative position of the
folding clasp and the headgear. In some configurations, the folding
clasp locks in the closed position.
[0022] An aspect involves an interface assembly including a mask
and a headgear. The mask includes a seal that surrounds and
delivers a flow of breathing gas to a mouth of a user. The headgear
secures the mask to the user's face and includes at least one
adjustment loop. A sliding buckle receives a portion of the
headgear within a tortuous pathway and is coupled to a portion of
the adjustment loop, wherein movement of the sliding buckle along
the portion of the headgear alters a size of the adjustment loop to
alter an overall size of the headgear.
[0023] In some configurations, a pull tab is coupled to the sliding
buckle to facilitate movement of the sliding buckle. In some
configurations, a coupler secures the pull tab relative to the
sliding buckle when not in use. The coupler can be a magnetic
coupler.
[0024] In some configurations, the pull tab is slidably mounted to
the sliding buckle such that the pull tab can move relative to the
sliding buckle in a direction of movement of the sliding
buckle.
[0025] In some configurations, at least one clip that couples the
headgear to the mask. The clip can be tethered to the mask.
[0026] In some configurations, clip defines at least two spaced
engagement points with the mask.
[0027] An aspect involves an interface assembly including a mask
and a headgear. The mask includes a seal that surrounds and
delivers a flow of breathing gas to a mouth of a user. The headgear
secures the mask to the user's face. The headgear is constructed
from at least two flat portions of material that are connected
along sew lines to form a seam, wherein the sew lines of the
portions of material do not have the same shape, such that, when
connected, tension and/or compression is introduced into the
material to provide the headgear with a contoured shape.
[0028] In some configurations, the sew lines are defined by edges
of the portions of material.
[0029] In some configurations, the connection between the portions
extends in a vertical direction along a rear portion of the
headgear.
[0030] An aspect involves an interface assembly including a mask
and a headgear. The mask includes a seal that surrounds and
delivers a flow of breathing gas to a mouth of a user. The headgear
secures the mask to the face of the user. The headgear includes a
rear halo portion surrounding a parietal region of the user's head
and the headgear cooperates with the mask to form a front halo
portion surrounding a frontal region of the user's head. The
headgear includes a relatively stretchable portion and a relatively
non-stretchable portion, wherein the relatively non-stretchable
portion surrounds at least one of the front halo portion and the
rear halo portion.
[0031] In some configurations, the relatively non-stretchable
portion surrounds each of the front halo portion and the rear halo
portion.
[0032] In some configurations, one or both of the front halo
portion and the rear halo portion are adjustable in
circumference.
[0033] In some configurations, a break-fit assembly permits the
headgear to move between a normal configuration and an enlarged
configuration. The break-fit assembly can include a separation
between a first portion of the headgear and a second portion of the
headgear, wherein the first and second portions are held together
in the normal configuration and are moved apart in the enlarged
configuration. The first and second portions can be held together
by a magnetic closure.
[0034] In some configurations, the first and second portions
comprise first and second flaps, respectively. In some
configurations, the first and second flaps are joined by a
pleat.
[0035] In some configurations, the front halo portion connects to
each side of the mask at a first location, wherein the headgear
further comprises straps on each side of the headgear that each
connect to a respective side of the mask at a second location
spaced from the first location. The first and second locations can
be upper and lower locations, respectively.
[0036] In some configurations, strengthening features are formed
into or otherwise secured to the relatively stretchable portion of
the headgear.
[0037] An aspect involves an interface assembly including a mask
and a headgear. The mask includes a seal that surrounds and
delivers a flow of breathing gas to a mouth of a user, the mask
comprising a support structure having an elongated slot. The
headgear secures the mask to the face of the user, wherein the
headgear comprises an end portion that passes through the elongated
slot of the mask and is folded to form a loop, the loop having a
fold that supports the mask, wherein the end portion can be
adjusted in an upward or downward direction to adjust an angle of
the mask relative to the headgear.
[0038] In some configurations, the end portion defines a tapered
shape.
[0039] In some configurations, the end portion can be coupled to
the headgear to secure the mask in a desired angular position.
[0040] In some configurations, the elongated slot is linear in
shape.
[0041] In another aspect, the invention involves the headgear of
any of the above-described interface assemblies configured for use
with any of the above-described interfaces or any other compatible
interface.
[0042] In a further aspect, the invention consists in components as
herein described with reference to any one or more of the
drawings.
[0043] The term "comprising" as used in this specification and
claims means "consisting at least in part of". When interpreting
each statement in this specification and claims that includes the
term "comprising", features other than that or those prefaced by
the term may also be present. Related terms such as "comprise" and
"comprises" are to be interpreted in the same manner.
[0044] This invention may also be said broadly to consist in the
parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the
specification of the application and/or statements of invention,
individually or collectively, and any or all combinations of any
two or more said parts, elements features or statements of
invention, and where specific integers are mentioned herein which
have known equivalents in the art to which this invention relates,
such known equivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as if
individually set forth.
[0045] The invention consists in the foregoing and also envisages
constructions of which the following gives examples only.
[0046] In this specification where reference has been made to
patent specifications, other external documents, or other sources
of information, this is generally for the purpose of providing a
context for discussing the features of the invention. Unless
specifically stated otherwise, reference to such external documents
is not to be construed as an admission that such documents, or such
sources of information, in any jurisdiction, are prior art, or form
part of the common general knowledge in the art.
[0047] Further aspects and advantages of the present invention will
become apparent from the ensuing description which is given by way
of example only.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0048] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the
present disclosure are described with reference to the drawings of
preferred embodiments, which embodiments are intended to illustrate
and not to limit the disclosure.
[0049] FIG. 1 is a side view of an interface assembly having an
interface, such as a mask, and a headgear.
[0050] FIG. 2 is a front view of the interface assembly of FIG.
1.
[0051] FIG. 3 is a rear view of the interface assembly of FIG.
1.
[0052] FIGS. 4A-4F illustrate various possible cross-sections of a
headgear of the interface assembly of FIG. 1.
[0053] FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate a break-fit arrangement of the
interface assembly of FIG. 1.
[0054] FIG. 6 is a side view of an interface assembly having an
interface, such as a mask, and a headgear.
[0055] FIG. 7 is a side view of an interface assembly having an
interface, such as a mask, and a headgear.
[0056] FIG. 8 is a front view of the interface assembly of FIG.
7.
[0057] FIG. 9 is a rear view of the interface assembly of FIG.
7.
[0058] FIGS. 10A-10E are side views of several interface
assemblies, each having an interface, such as a mask, and a
headgear.
[0059] FIGS. 11A-11C are side views of several interface
assemblies, each having an interface, such as a mask, and a
headgear.
[0060] FIGS. 12A-12I are side views of several interface
assemblies, each having an interface, such as a mask, and a
headgear.
[0061] FIG. 13 is a side view of an interface assembly having an
interface, such as a mask, and a headgear.
[0062] FIG. 14 is a front view of the interface assembly of FIG.
13.
[0063] FIG. 15 is a rear view of the interface assembly of FIG.
13.
[0064] FIG. 16 is a side view of an interface assembly having an
interface, such as a mask, and a headgear.
[0065] FIG. 17 is a side view of an interface assembly having an
interface, such as a mask, and a headgear.
[0066] FIG. 18 is a side view of an interface assembly having an
interface, such as a mask, and a headgear.
[0067] FIG. 19 is an exploded view of the rotational adjuster of
the interface assembly of FIG. 18.
[0068] FIG. 20 is a side view of an interface assembly having an
interface, such as a mask, and a headgear.
[0069] FIG. 21 is a side view of an interface assembly having an
interface, such as a mask, and a headgear.
[0070] FIG. 22A is a side view of an interface assembly having an
interface, such as a mask, and a headgear.
[0071] FIG. 22B is a side view of an interface assembly having an
interface, such as a mask, and a headgear.
[0072] FIG. 23 is a side view of an interface assembly having an
interface, such as a mask, and a headgear.
[0073] FIG. 24 is a front view of the interface assembly of FIG.
23.
[0074] FIG. 25 is a side view of an interface assembly having an
interface, such as a mask, and a headgear.
[0075] FIG. 26 is a side view of an interface assembly having an
interface, such as a mask, and a headgear.
[0076] FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view of a first portion of the
headgear of the interface assembly of FIG. 26.
[0077] FIGS. 28A-28C illustrate several possible cross-sections of
a second portion of the headgear of the interface assembly of FIG.
26.
[0078] FIG. 29 is a side view of an interface assembly having an
interface, such as a mask, and a headgear. The interface assembly
has a rotational coupling between the mask and the headgear.
[0079] FIG. 30 is an exploded view of the rotational coupling of
the interface assembly of FIG. 29.
[0080] FIG. 31 is a side view of an interface assembly having an
interface, such as a mask, and a headgear. The headgear includes a
cheek pad.
[0081] FIG. 32 is a perspective view of a cheek pad portion of the
headgear of the interface assembly of FIG. 31.
[0082] FIG. 33 is a side view of an interface assembly having an
interface, such as a mask, and a headgear.
[0083] FIG. 34 is a side view of an interface assembly having an
interface, such as a mask, and a headgear.
[0084] FIG. 35 is a side view of an interface assembly having an
interface, such as a mask, and a headgear. The interface assembly
includes quick-release mechanisms between the headgear and the
mask.
[0085] FIG. 36 is a side view of an alternative quick-release
mechanism.
[0086] FIG. 37 is a side view of an interface assembly having an
interface, such as a mask, and a headgear.
[0087] FIG. 38 is a side view of an interface assembly having an
interface, such as a mask, and a headgear.
[0088] FIG. 39 is a rear view of the interface assembly of FIG.
38.
[0089] FIG. 40 is a side view of an interface assembly having an
interface, such as a mask, and a headgear.
[0090] FIG. 41 is a side view of an interface assembly having an
interface, such as a mask, and a headgear.
[0091] FIG. 42 is a front view of the interface assembly of FIG.
41.
[0092] FIG. 43 is a side view of an interface assembly having an
interface, such as a mask, and a headgear.
[0093] FIG. 44 is a side view of an interface assembly having an
interface, such as a mask, and a headgear.
[0094] FIG. 45 is a front view of the interface assembly of FIG.
44.
[0095] FIG. 46 is a side view of an interface assembly having an
interface, such as a mask, and a headgear.
[0096] FIG. 47 is a side view of an interface assembly having an
interface, such as a mask, and a headgear. The headgear includes a
low profile adjustment mechanism.
[0097] FIG. 48 is an enlarged view of the low profile adjustment
mechanism of FIG. 47.
[0098] FIG. 49 is a side view of an interface assembly having an
interface, such as a mask, and a headgear.
[0099] FIG. 50 is a perspective view of an interface assembly
having an interface, such as a mask, and a headgear. The interface
assembly includes a quick-release mechanism between the mask and
the headgear.
[0100] FIG. 51 is a perspective view of an interface assembly
having an alternative quick-release mechanism.
[0101] FIG. 52 is a perspective view of an interface assembly
having another alternative quick-release mechanism.
[0102] FIG. 53 is a perspective view of an interface assembly
having yet another alternative quick-release mechanism.
[0103] FIG. 54 is a perspective view of an interface assembly
having still another alternative quick-release mechanism.
[0104] FIG. 55 is a perspective view of an interface assembly
having another alternative quick-release mechanism including a
clip.
[0105] FIG. 56 is a perspective view of the mask of the interface
assembly of FIG. 55.
[0106] FIG. 57 is a perspective view of an interior surface of the
clip of the quick-release mechanism of the interface assembly of
FIG. 55.
[0107] FIG. 58 is an exploded perspective view of an interface
assembly having a quick-release mechanism.
[0108] FIG. 58 is a perspective view of an interface assembly
having a quick-release mechanism, which includes an elasticated
tether that couples the clip to a remainder of the mask.
[0109] FIG. 59 is a perspective view of an interface assembly
having an alternative quick-release mechanism with an elasticated
tether.
[0110] FIG. 60 is a perspective view of an interface assembly
having another alternative quick-release mechanism with an
elasticated tether.
[0111] FIG. 61 is a perspective view of the interface assembly of
FIG. 60 with the quick-release mechanism in a disconnected
state.
[0112] FIG. 62 is a side view of an interface assembly having an
interface, such as a mask, and a headgear. The interface assembly
includes a folding clasp quick-release mechanism between the mask
and the headgear.
[0113] FIG. 63 is a top view of the folding clasp quick-release
mechanism of FIG. 62 in a closed state.
[0114] FIG. 64 is a top view of the folding clasp quick-release
mechanism of FIG. 62 in an open state.
[0115] FIG. 65 is a perspective view of an interface assembly with
an alternative folding clasp quick-release mechanism connecting the
headgear and the mask. The folding clasp quick-release mechanism is
shown in a closed state.
[0116] FIG. 66 is a perspective view of the interface assembly of
FIG. 65 with the folding clasp quick-release mechanism in an open
state.
[0117] FIG. 67 is a cross-sectional view of the folding clasp
quick-release mechanism of FIG. 65.
[0118] FIG. 68 is an enlarged view of a headgear strap adjustment
assembly of the interface assembly of FIG. 65.
[0119] FIG. 69 is a side view of an interface assembly having an
interface, such as a mask, and a headgear. A sliding buckle
adjustment mechanism permits adjustment of the headgear.
[0120] FIG. 70 is a cross-sectional view of the sliding buckle
adjustment mechanism of FIG. 69.
[0121] FIG. 71 is a perspective view of the sliding buckle
adjustment mechanism of FIG. 69.
[0122] FIG. 72 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative sliding
buckle adjustment mechanism having a slidable pull tab.
[0123] FIG. 73 illustrates portions of a contoured headgear prior
to joining.
[0124] FIG. 74 illustrates the portions of FIG. 73 joined to create
a contoured headgear.
[0125] FIG. 75 is a front perspective view of an interface assembly
having an interface, such as a mask, and a headgear. The headgear
includes at least one relatively rigid section.
[0126] FIG. 76 is a side view of the interface assembly of FIG.
75.
[0127] FIG. 77 is a rear perspective view of the interface assembly
of FIG. 75.
[0128] FIG. 78 is top view of an adjustment mechanism within a
crown strap portion of the headgear of FIG. 75.
[0129] FIG. 79 is a rear view of an adjustment mechanism within a
rear strap portion of the headgear of FIG. 75.
[0130] FIG. 80 is a perspective view of an alternative adjustment
mechanism of FIGS. 78 and 79 having a break-fit arrangement with a
tether to couple portions of the adjustment mechanism.
[0131] FIG. 81 is a top view of the interface assembly of FIGS.
75-79 illustrating a difference between an untightened headgear
(left side) and a tightened headgear (right side).
[0132] FIG. 82 is a front view illustrating a location of contact
of a rigid portion of the headgear of the interface assembly of
FIGS. 75-79 on a user's face.
[0133] FIG. 83 is a top view illustrating the location of contact
of FIG. 82.
[0134] FIG. 84 is a side view illustrating a location of an axis of
rotation of the mask of the interface assembly of FIGS. 75-79.
[0135] FIG. 85 is a side view of a mask of the interface assembly
of FIGS. 75-79 illustrating a range of rotational adjustment of the
mask.
[0136] FIGS. 86A-86G are cross-sectional views of a portion of the
headgear of FIGS. 75-79 illustrating several possible shapes of a
rigid portion and a pad.
[0137] FIG. 87 is a side view of the headgear of FIGS. 75-79
illustrating a front halo portion and a rear halo portion.
[0138] FIGS. 88A-88F illustrate alternative headgear arrangements
relative to FIG. 87 each having a front halo portion and a rear
halo portion.
[0139] FIGS. 89A-89F illustrate several possible locations for
break-fit assemblies within a headgear, such as the headgear of
FIGS. 75-79.
[0140] FIG. 90 is a side view of a headgear for an interface
assembly illustrating optional locations for relatively rigid and
relatively non-rigid portions of the headgear.
[0141] FIG. 91 is a side view of an interface assembly having an
interface, such as a mask, and a headgear. The interface assembly
includes a rotational coupling between the mask and the
headgear.
[0142] FIG. 92 is a perspective view of an interface assembly
having an interface, such as a mask, and a headgear. The interface
assembly includes an adjustment arrangement for a position of the
mask.
[0143] FIG. 93 is a perspective view of an interface assembly
having an interface, such as a mask, and a headgear. The interface
assembly includes a cheek pad in the headgear and a quick-release
mechanism between the mask and the headgear.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0144] With reference to FIGS. 1-3, an interface assembly 100 is
illustrated. The interface assembly 100 can have any suitable
configuration. The illustrated interface assembly 100 includes an
interface portion, or interface 102, and a headgear portion, or
headgear 104. The illustrated interface 102 is a nasal-oral mask
but, in some configurations, certain features, aspects and
advantages of the disclosed embodiments can be used with any type
of interface, including but not limited to full face masks, nasal
masks, nasal pillows, oral masks and cannulas. Accordingly, the
interface 102 is also referred to herein as a "mask" for
convenience. The use of the term "mask" is intended to cover
interfaces generally, and can be replaced with the term "interface"
unless indicated otherwise, either explicitly or by the context of
the disclosure. Examples of nasal-oral masks are provided in PCT
Patent Publication No. WO2013/066195, the entirety of which is
incorporated by reference herein.
[0145] The illustrated mask 102 generally comprises a support
structure, such as a frame 106, which supports a seal 108. The mask
102 (e.g., the frame 106 and/or the seal 108) can be connected to a
supply conduit (not shown), which in some configurations can be
connected to the frame by an elbow. The supply conduit can be used
to supply breathing gases to a user through the seal 108. The seal
108 or a combination of the seal 108 and the frame 106 can define a
chamber that receives the breathing gases from the supply
conduit.
[0146] As described above, in some configurations, the mask 102 can
seal around a mouth of a user and on an underside of a nose of the
user. Such a mask 102 can provide pressurized air flow to both the
nose and the mouth of the user. With such masks 102, the headgear
104 preferably secures the nasal sealing surface up against the
lower surface of the user's nose. Securing the nasal sealing
surface against the nose helps achieve an effective seal without
applying excessive force to the nose. As the air pressure within
the chamber of the mask 102 increases, the force applied by the
headgear 104 attempts to restrain the mask 102 from lifting from
the face. As a result of the mask 102 being sealed against the
underside of the user's nose, the force applied to the mask 102 as
a result of the air pressure has a downwardly-directed component.
However, in general, the largest component of the force is directed
away from the user's face. To address the forces acting on the mask
as a result of the air pressure, the headgear 104 preferably
provides a force to the mask 102 that has at least a small
upwardly-directed component. In some configurations, the headgear
104 can provide a force to the mask 102 that is directed generally
or substantially perpendicular to the underside of the user's
nose.
[0147] Preferably, the mask 102 comprises mounting locations or
mounting points 110. The mounting points 110 can be formed on at
least one of the frame 106, the seal 108, the conduit and the
elbow. Any suitable mounting points 110 can be used to facilitate
connection between the mask 102 and the headgear 104, which will be
described below. Often, the mounting points 110 are located on a
relatively rigid portion of the mask 102, such as the frame 106 or
another support structure for the seal 108. Therefore, references
to the frame 106, in the context of the headgear 104 being coupled
at the mounting points 110 on the frame 106, can refer to any
support structure of the mask 102 to which the headgear 104 is
coupled, such as a seal housing, for example.
[0148] In some configurations, the mounting points 110 facilitate
easy connection and disconnection of the headgear 104 and the mask
102. In some configurations, the headgear 104 and the mask 102 can
be joined together such that the headgear 104 is not generally
removable from one or more component of the mask 102. In some
configurations, the headgear 104 and the mask 102 can be integrally
formed. In some configurations, two mounting points 110 are
provided on each side of the mask 102 and are spaced from one
another in a vertical direction or height direction of the mask
102.
[0149] In some configurations, the headgear 104 can comprise a
front halo portion 112 and a rear halo portion 114. Preferably, the
headgear 104 comprises at least the rear halo portion 114. The
front halo portion 112 can be configured to generally encircle the
frontal region or upper half of the face of the user and resist
rearward and downward directed forces. The rear halo portion 114
can be configured to generally encircle the parietal region of the
head and resist forward and downward directed forces. In some
configurations, the rear halo portion 114, when coupled to the mask
102, can resist a substantial portion or an entirety of the
magnitude and/or direction of forces applied to the mask 102 during
use. Thus, in some configurations, the rear halo portion 114 can be
utilized without the front halo portion 112. However, the front
halo portion 112 can assist in inhibiting or preventing rotation of
the interface assembly 100 on the user's head. The front halo
portion 112 can also resist downward forces to support the weight
of the mask 102 and other generally downward forces, such as hose
pull forces, for example. Thus, in many applications, the use of a
front halo portion 112 can be desirable. In some configurations,
the front halo structure 112 and the rear halo structure 114 are
generally adjacent to each other. In some such configurations, the
front halo structure 112 and the rear halo structure 114 can share
a common crown strap 116.
[0150] In some configurations, under-ear straps or ear straps 118
can extend from lower portions of the rear halo portion 114 on each
side of the headgear 104. As shown in the illustrated
configurations, lower or forward strap portions 120 of the front
halo structure 112 can be attached to the upper section of the mask
102 at mounting points 110 on each side of the mask 102. The
forward strap portions 120 of the front halo structure 112 can be
angled such that the force applied by the forward strap portions
120 will have an upwardly-directed component. As described above,
in some configurations, the force can be approximately or largely
perpendicular to the underside of the user's nose. Such an
arrangement can assist in creating a seal between the mask 102 and
the underside of the user's nose. The attachment location and the
angle will help to address both of the challenges mention
above.
[0151] The ear straps 118 can be attached to the lower portion of
the mask 102 at mounting points 110 on each side of the mask 102.
By attaching the ear straps 118 to the lower portion of the mask
102, forces applied by the ear straps 118 can cooperate with forces
applied by the forward strap portions 120 of the front halo portion
112 to influence an angular position of the mask 102, as described
below. The forward strap portions 120 of the front halo portion 112
can be referred to as "upper straps" relative to the ear straps
118, which are the relative "lower straps" and can be referred to
as such herein. The balancing of forces can reduce the likelihood
of mask rocking.
[0152] With reference to FIG. 1, the mask 102 can be viewed as
having an upper point P1 and a lower point P2 at which the mask 102
contacts the user's face. The upper point P1 can be generally or
substantially at an intersection between the underside of the
user's nose and upper lip. The lower point P2 can be located on the
user's chin. Adjustment of the forward strap portions 120 tends to
rotate the mask 102 about the lower point P2. Adjustment of the ear
straps 118 tends to rotate the mask 102 about the upper point P1.
Thus, the existence of both of the straps 118, 120 tends to inhibit
or prevent undesired rotation about either point P1, P2 when the
headgear 104 is properly adjusted.
[0153] The headgear 104 can apply a force Fl to the mask 102
through the upper straps 120 and a force F2 to the mask 102 through
the lower straps 118. The force F1 can be at least be oriented
upward relative to horizontal or relative to a line that is
perpendicular to a line passing through the points P1 and P2 (or a
line defined by upper and lower points on the mask seal 108). The
force F2 can be generally rearward, horizontal or along a line that
is perpendicular to a line passing through the points P1 and P2 (or
a line defined by upper and lower points on the mask seal 108). The
force F1 can be between about 0 degrees and about 90 degrees.
However, because the force applied to the headgear 104 by the mask
102 as a result of air pressure is primarily away from the user's
face, preferably, a horizontal component FH of the force F1 is at
least as large as or larger than a vertical component FV of the
force F1. Thus, the angle of the force F1 can be about 45 degrees
or less. However, if a greater vertical component FV is desired,
such as to increase sealing force on the underside of the user's
nose, the angle of the force F1 can be adjusted.
[0154] In some configurations, one or more of the upper straps 120
and the lower straps 118 used to attach to the mask 102 may be
adjustable in length. In some configurations, both of the upper
straps 120 and the lower straps 118 can be adjustable in length.
However, in the illustrated arrangement, the length of the upper
straps 120 is fixed and the overall circumference of the front halo
portion 112 is adjusted by the central adjustment feature 122,
which also adjusts the circumference of the rear halo portion 114.
The lower straps 118 are adjustable to permit a rotational position
of the mask 102 (relative to the upper mounting points 110 of the
upper straps 120) to be adjusted.
[0155] In some configurations, the crown strap 116 can have a
central adjustment feature 122. The central adjustment feature 122
can allow the size of the headgear 104 to be modified. The central
adjustment feature 122 can have any suitable configuration. In some
configurations, the central adjustment feature 122 can include a
buckle component and portions of the crown strap 116 can pass
through the buckle and double over another portion of the crown
strap 116. In some configurations, the central adjustment feature
122 can be as simple as providing a hook and loop connection
between two portions the crown strap 116.
[0156] The headgear 104 can be formed of any suitable materials. In
some configurations, at least a portion of the headgear 104 will be
made of a material with some stretch. In some configurations, the
headgear 104 is formed of a stretchable material, such as
Breath-o-prene.RTM., for example but without limitation.
Breath-o-prene.RTM. is a heat laminated material made of
polyurethane foam with an outer layer of nylon and spandex. In some
configurations, the headgear 104 may be thermoformed to provide
structure and support.
[0157] The headgear 104 also may comprise non-stretch sections 124.
In some configurations, the non-stretch sections 124 can extend
around the perimeters of one or both of the halo portions 112, 114.
In the illustrated arrangement, non-stretch sections 124 extend
around an entire perimeter of the front halo portion 112 (with the
exception of the mask 102) and an entire perimeter of the rear halo
portion 114. In some configurations, non-stretch sections can also
be incorporated in the lower strap 118. The non-stretch sections
124 can reduce the likelihood of the front halo portion 112 and/or
rear halo portion 114 stretching over the head relative to a
similar arrangement of stretchable material. Stretching of the rear
halo portion 114 can cause the mask 102 to move away from or slip
off the face. Stretching of the front halo portion 112 can allow
rotation of the headgear 104 on the user's head. As used herein,
the term "non-stretch" in the context of the non-stretch sections
124 refers to sections that are less stretchable than the
stretchable or other portions of the headgear 104. In some
configurations, the non-stretch sections 124 can resist substantial
stretching or elongation in response to normal or expected forces
applied to the mask 102 or headgear 104 to retain the halo
portion(s) 112, 114 in place on the user's head, but may still be
somewhat stretchable. The non-stretch sections 124 can reduce the
likelihood of the upper sealing surface of the seal 108 being
pulled away from the nose. In some configurations, the non-stretch
sections 124 may be included in other regions of the headgear 104.
Stretchable material can refer to materials typically used in
headgear assemblies or can refer to materials that exhibit greater
stretch than materials typically used in headgear assemblies.
[0158] FIGS. 4A-4F illustrates some possible strap cross-sections
but any suitable strap configuration or combination of
configurations can be used. In FIGS. 4A-4F, the hashed regions 124
can represent a material that is largely or relatively non-stretch
or semi-rigid. The non-hashed regions 126 can represent a softer
and/or more stretch/less rigid/more elastic material, such as
Breath-o-prene.RTM., for example. In the illustrations shown in
FIGS. 4A-4F, it is intended that the lower edge of each
cross-section represents the surface that would be in contact with
the patient's head. In most configurations, at least part of the
surface that comes into contact with the patients head can be
formed from or of a softer material.
[0159] In FIG. 4A, the strap cross-section includes a non-stretch
region 124 at at least one lateral edge and, preferably, at each
lateral edge of the strap. A stretch region 126 extends between the
laterally-spaced non-stretch regions 124. In FIG. 4B, the strap
cross-section includes a central non-stretch region 124 with
stretch regions 126 on each side of the non-stretch region 124. In
FIG. 4C, the strap cross-section includes a plurality of spaced
non-stretch regions 124 alternating with stretch regions 126. In
the illustrated arrangement, the stretch regions 126 are positioned
on each lateral edge and in the center with non-stretch regions 124
between the center and edge stretch regions 126. In FIG. 4D, a
non-stretch region 124 extends in a width direction of the strap
cross-section. In the illustrated arrangement, the regions are
layered with a stretch region 126 on at least one side and,
preferably, on each side of the non-stretch region 124. In FIG. 4E,
a non-stretch region 124 and a stretch region 126 extend in a width
direction of the strap and each occupies one-half of the strap
thickness. In the illustrated arrangement, the stretch region 126
is positioned closest to the user's head. In FIG. 4F, the entire
strap cross-section is a stretch region 126.
[0160] With reference to FIGS. 1, 5A and 5B, in some
configurations, the headgear 104 can include a so-called break-fit
assembly 130, which can be utilized to move the headgear 104
between a fitted or operating condition, in which the headgear 104
holds the mask 102 in contact with the user's face, and a fitment
or removal condition, in which application or removal of the
headgear 104 is facilitated. Preferably, the operating condition is
a properly adjusted condition for an individual user and the
break-fit assembly 130 permits quick and easy transition between
the operating condition and the fitment/removal condition. That is,
in contrast to designs that readjustment with each application of
the interface assembly 100, the break-fit assembly 130 allows the
headgear 104 to remain in a properly adjusted state, but be
enlarged or opened to a certain extent to facilitate application or
removal. Preferably, adjustment features separate from the
break-fit assembly 130 are provided to permit adjustment of the
headgear 104 to fit an individual user. Break-fit assemblies could
be provided in other locations of the headgear 104, such as any
strap portion of the headgear 104 or any of the other locations
disclosed herein, such as in connection with FIG. 89, for example
and without limitation.
[0161] The break-fit assembly 130 can resist elongation/expansion
under some conditions and permits elongation/expansion under other
conditions. For example, the break-fit assembly 130 can be
automatic, in which elongation/expansion of the headgear 104 is
resisted or prevented until a predetermined or desired yield force
is exceeded, at which point the headgear can elongate/expand. In
some configurations, the break-fit assembly 130 can be manually
operated to move the headgear 104 between the operating condition
and the fitment/removal condition.
[0162] The illustrated break-fit assembly 130 comprises a
separation 132 between a first flap 134 and a second flap 136 of
material. As illustrated in FIGS. 5A and 5B, the first flap 134 and
the second flap 136 can be joined or their respective edges brought
close to one another to define a fitted or operating condition or
the flaps 134, 136 can be separated to define a fitment/removal
condition. Optionally, a retention mechanism, fastener or closure
138, such as a magnetic closure, can be utilized to secure the
flaps 134, 136 in a fitted or operation condition. In some
configurations, the flaps 134, 136 can be connected to one another
by material extending between the edges defining the separation
132, such as by a pleat. Other suitable arrangements to facilitate
fitment of the headgear 102 and/or interface assembly 100 can also
be used. For example, the break-fit assembly can include any of
those described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.
61/681,024, filed on Aug. 8, 2012, for example but without
limitation, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its
entirety.
[0163] With reference to FIG. 6, another interface assembly 600 is
arranged and configured in accordance with certain features,
aspects and advantages of the present disclosure. The illustrated
interface assembly 600 includes an interface 602 and a headgear
604. The illustrated interface 602 is a nasal-oral mask but, as
described herein, other types of interfaces can be used with the
disclosed headgear 604. The illustrated mask 602 generally
comprises a frame 606 that supports a seal 608. The mask 602 can be
connected to a supply conduit (not shown), which can be used to
supply breathing gases to a user. As described above, in some
configurations, the mask 602 can seal around a mouth of a user and
on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask 602 can provide
pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth of the user.
The headgear 604 can be coupled to the mask 602 at one or more
mounting locations or mounting points 610, as described below.
Unless indicated otherwise, features of the interface assembly 600
or portions thereof can be the same as or similar to other
interfaces or portions thereof described herein, or can be of
another suitable arrangement.
[0164] In some configurations, the headgear 604 can comprise a
generally non-stretch/semi-rigid halo shaped portion 614 (referred
to herein as the "halo portion"). In some such configurations, the
halo portion 614 can generally encircle the parietal region of a
user's head. In some such configurations, the headgear 604 can have
a mounting portion in the form of rigid hook-shaped extensions or
hook portions 612 that extend forward from the halo portion 614 on
each side of the user's face. Preferably, the hook portions 612 sit
over and in front of the user's ears and provide a mounting
location for coupling the mask 602 to the halo portion 614.
[0165] Preferably, the headgear 604 comprises two or more straps
that couple the mask 602 to the halo portion 614. In the
illustrated configuration, a first or lower strap 618 and a second
or upper strap 620 are provided on each side of the headgear 604 to
connect the mask 602 to the halo portion 614 and permit rotational
adjustment of the mask 602. The illustrated straps 618, 620
indirectly couple the mask 602 to the halo portion 614. The straps
618, 620 are coupled directly to the hook portions 612, which
transfer force from the straps 618, 620 to the halo portion 614. In
some configurations, the one or more of the straps 618, 620 can
have an adjustable length or an adjustable effective length. In the
illustrated arrangement, the actual length of each strap 618 and
620 is fixed; however, the positioning of the straps 618, 620 on
the hook portions 612 can be varied to adjust a length of each of
the straps 618, 620 that extends forward from the hook portions
612. The straps 618, 620 can be secured to hook portions 612 and
mask 602 by any suitable arrangement, such as cooperating
hook-and-loop fastener portions 640. A substantial portion of the
hook portions 612 can be covered by the hook-and-loop fastener
portions 640 to provide a substantial amount of length adjustment
of the straps 618, 620. In some configurations, an entirety or
substantial entirety of an inward-facing surface of the straps 618,
620 can comprise hook-and-loop fastener portions 640.
[0166] In some configurations, the halo portion 614 is generally
semi-rigid. In some such configurations, the semi-rigid halo
portion 614 can help the headgear 604 remain open to facilitate the
application or fitment process. In some such configurations, the
semi-rigid halo portion 614 can reduce the likelihood of the
headgear 604 (especially the halo portion 614) collapsing as a
result of its own weight. In some such configurations, the
semi-rigid nature of the halo portion 614 makes fitting easy while
not being so rigid that the halo portion 614 is uncomfortable to
wear.
[0167] In some configurations, the hook portions 612 of the
headgear 604 can be more rigid than the halo portion 614. In some
configurations, the hook portions 612 are rigid enough to reduce
the likelihood of bending above the ear in response to normal or
expected forces during use. Undesired movement of the mask 602 can
result from substantial bending of the hook portions 612.
[0168] In some configurations, an initial extension 642 of the hook
portions 612 from the halo portion 614 may be substantially
perpendicular. In some configurations, the substantially
perpendicular extension 642 can help apply a desired force angle to
the mask 602. In some such configurations, the desired force angle
helps to seal the mask 602 along the bottom of the user's nose.
[0169] The upper strap 620 can be attached to the hook portions 612
at an angle. In some such configurations, the angle can be
approximately perpendicular to the underside of the user's nose.
The lower strap 618 can be attached to the bottom of the mask 602.
In some such configurations, the lower strap 618 can reduce the
likelihood of the mask 602 lifting upwards away from the user's
chin. In some configurations, one or more of the lower and upper
straps 618, 620 can be formed of or from a material such as
Breath-o-prene.RTM., for example but without limitation. The straps
618, 620 can be formed of or from a material that provides
flexibility for easy adjustment and to minimize excessive force
being applied to the user's face. Preferably, the straps 618, 620
at least substantially limit extension along an axial direction of
the straps 618, 620 in response to normal or expected forces in use
to maintain the mask 602 in position on the user's face. As used
herein, an "axial" direction can be a direction aligned with a
geometric axis of the strap (or other component) in a lengthwise
direction or a direction along which the relevant force is applied.
An axis of a strap or other component can be non-linear (e.g.,
curved). In some instances, such as in connection with straps or
components having a complex shape, an "axial" direction may not be
aligned with a geometric axis, but may be defined by end or
connection points of the strap or may be generally aligned with a
resistance force provided by the strap or other component.
[0170] With reference to FIGS. 7-9, another interface assembly 700
is arranged and configured in accordance with certain features,
aspects and advantages of the present disclosure. The illustrated
interface assembly 700 is substantially similar to the interface
assembly 600 in that the interface assembly 700 includes a mask 702
and a headgear 704. The illustrated mask 702 is a nasal-oral mask,
but could be any other type of interface. The headgear 704 includes
a halo portion 714 and a pair of hook portions 712 on each side of
the headgear 704. A lower strap 718 and an upper strap 720 connect
the mask 702 to the hook portions 712 on each side of the headgear
704. Unlike the interface assembly 600, the straps 718, 720 of the
interface assembly 700 preferably are adjustable in length by
varying a portion of the strap 718, 720 that is doubled over on
itself. In the illustrated arrangement, mounting points 710 of the
mask 702 include a ring, bar or similar structure that permits the
strap 718, 720 to be connected to the mask 702 in a loop, with a
free end of the strap 718, 720 doubled back on itself and secured,
such as with a hook-and-loop fastener. In other respects, the
interface assembly 700 can be the same as or substantially similar
to the interface assembly 600, including any of the features
described with respect thereto, or can be of any other suitable
arrangement.
[0171] With reference to FIGS. 10A-10E, several variations of
interface assemblies 1000 are shown, each of which can be
substantially similar to the interface assemblies 600 and 700 and
to one another. Accordingly, the same reference numbers are
utilized throughout FIGS. 10A-10E for the same or corresponding
components or features. Each interface assembly 1000 includes a
mask 1002 and a headgear 1004. Each headgear 1004 also includes at
least a rear halo portion 1014 or a similar effective arrangement.
Preferably, each headgear 1004 also includes a front halo portion
1012 or similar effective arrangement. As described previously, the
mask 1002 can cooperate with the headgear 1004 to form a portion of
the front halo portion 1012. A lower strap 1018 and an upper strap
1020 are provided on each side of the headgear 1004 to connect the
mask 1002 to the headgear 1004. Preferably, the upper strap 1020
applies a force to the mask 1002 in a direction that facilitates or
assists in sealing the mask 1002 against a bottom surface of the
user's nose and the lower strap 1018 facilitates or assists in
rotational adjustment of the mask 1002. A crown strap 1016, a rear
strap 1050 and/or a rigid backbone 1060, among other portions of
the interface assemblies 1000, can be adjustable to fit an
individual user. In some configurations, multiple sizes of headgear
1004 can be provided. The unique features and arrangements of the
interface assemblies 1000 will now be described.
[0172] The interface assembly 1000 of FIG. 10A includes a
relatively wide rear strap portion 1050 that rests at least
partially on the occipital bone and spreads the load over a larger
area of the user's head as compared to a thin strap. The lower
strap 1018 passes below the user's ear and connects to the rear
portion 1050. The upper strap 1020 passes above the user's ear and
connects to a forward extension 1052 of the rear portion 1050 at a
junction with the crown strap 1016. The crown strap 1016 and rear
portion 1050 cooperate to form a halo portion 1014. The entire
headgear 1004 can be constructed of a flexible material, such as
Breath-o-prene.RTM., for example.
[0173] The interface assembly of FIG. 10B includes a rigid backbone
portion 1060, which extends along the back of the user's head near
the base of the skull and up and over the ears on each side. The
rigid backbone 1060 can be more rigid than other portions of the
headgear 1004 and can be formed from a semi-rigid or rigid
material. Preferably, the ends of the rigid backbone 1060 extend
forward of the user's ears. In the interface assembly 1000 of FIG.
10B, the ends of the rigid backbone 1060 extend downwardly in front
of the user's ears to form a shape similar to the hook portions 612
or 712. The upper strap 1020 and lower strap 1018 can extend
between the mask 1002 and the ends of the rigid backbone 1060. A
crown strap 1016 can pass over the crown of the user's head and
connect to each side of the rigid backbone 1060. The crown strap
1016 and rear portion of the rigid backbone 1060 cooperate to form
a halo portion 1014. Preferably, at least the end portions of the
rigid backbone 1060 are constructed from a relatively rigid
material, similar to the hook portions 612 or 712, to resist
bending. In some configurations, the entire rigid backbone 1060 can
be constructed from a relatively rigid material. The lower, upper
and crown straps 1018, 1020 and 1016 can be constructed from a
softer, less rigid, more flexible or more stretchable material.
[0174] The interface assembly 1000 of FIG. 10C includes rigid ear
loop portions 1070 on each side, which extend in an arcuate manner
behind the user's ear from below to above the ear. A halo portion
1014 can couple the ear loop portions 1070 to one another. The
upper straps 1020 extend from respective upper ends of the ear loop
portions 1070 and the lower straps 1018 extend from respective
lower ends of the ear loop portions 1070. Preferably, at least the
ear loop portions 1070 are constructed from a relatively rigid
material. The other portions can be constructed from a softer, less
rigid, more flexible or more stretchable material.
[0175] The interface assembly 1000 of FIG. 10D includes rigid ear
loops 1070 that completely encircle the user's ears. A crown strap
1016 passes over the crown of the user's head and connects the ear
loops 1070 and a rear strap 1050 passes across the rear of the
user's head and also connects the ear loops 1070. Each of the crown
strap 1016 and the rear strap 1050 extend in a generally radial
direction from the ear loop 1070 and are oriented generally
perpendicular to one another. The crown strap 1016, rear strap 1050
and portions of the ear loops 1070 between the crown strap 1016 and
the rear strap 1050 cooperate to define a halo portion 1014. As
described above, preferably, the crown strap 1016 and rear strap
1050 are capable of adjustment such that the ear loops 1070 can be
properly positioned relative to the user's ears. Preferably, at
least the ear loop portions 1070 are constructed from a relatively
rigid material. The other portions can be constructed from a
softer, less rigid, more flexible or more stretchable material.
[0176] The interface assembly 1000 of FIG. 10E includes a rigid
backbone portion 1060 similar to the headgear 1004 of FIG. 10B;
however, the ends of the rigid backbone 1060 in FIG. 10E do not
extend downwardly in front of the user's ear, or at least to any
significant extent or as compared to the rigid backbone 1060 of
FIG. 10B. The lower straps 1018 extend from the rigid backbone
1060, below the user's ears, and connect to the mask 1002. The
upper straps 1020 extend from the ends of the rigid backbone from a
location above the user's ear and connect to the mask 1002 at a
location above the lower straps 1018. The upper straps 1020 can be
of a thin construction, such as a line or cable-type construction,
to minimize height and interference with vision, while providing
suitable tensile properties. Preferably, at least the rigid
backbone 1060 is constructed from a relatively rigid material. The
other portions can be constructed from a softer, less rigid, more
flexible or more stretchable material. In other respects, the
interface assemblies 1000 can be the same as or substantially
similar to the interface assemblies 600 or 700, including any of
the features described with respect thereto, or can be of any other
suitable arrangement. Features of the various interface assemblies
600, 700, 1000 can be combined with one another as desired, such as
to the extent that the features are not mutually exclusive.
[0177] FIGS. 11A-11C illustrate several variations of interface
assemblies 1000, each of which can be substantially similar to the
interface assemblies 1000 of FIGS. 10A-10E. Accordingly, the same
reference numbers are utilized throughout FIGS. 11A-11C for the
same or corresponding components or features. The interface
assembly 1000 of FIG. 11A preferably is identical to the interface
assembly 1000 of FIG. 10A. The interface assemblies 1000 of FIGS.
11B and 11C are described with respect the differences relative to
the interface assembly 1000 of FIG. 11A. The interface assembly
1000 of FIG. 11B includes a relatively more rigid or semi-rigid
portion 1080 positioned within the rear portion 1050. Preferably,
the semi-rigid portion 1080 extends along a lower edge of the rear
portion 1050, such as along an entirety or at least a substantial
entirety of the rear portion 1050. The semi-rigid portion 1080 can
reduce pressure on the back of the user's neck and/or reduce or
prevent slipping of the headgear 1004 on the user as a result of
the increased rigidity at least relative to the interface assembly
1000 of FIG. 11A.
[0178] The interface assembly 1000 of FIG. 11C includes a
relatively more rigid or semi-rigid connector 1090 that couples the
upper strap 1020, the crown strap 1016 and an upper portion of the
rear strap or rear portion 1050. The semi-rigid connector 1090 can
reduce or prevent rotation of the crown strap 1016 by stabilizing
or fixing the relative positions of the crown strap 1016, the upper
strap 1020 and the upper portion of the rear strap or rear portion
1050. In other respects, the interface assemblies 1000 can be the
same as or substantially similar to the interface assemblies 600 or
700, or the interfaces 1000 of FIGS. 10A-10E, including any of the
features described with respect thereto, or can be of any other
suitable arrangement. Features of the various interface assemblies
600, 700, 1000 can be combined with one another as desired, such as
to the extent that the features are not mutually exclusive.
[0179] FIGS. 12A-12I illustrate several variations of interface
assemblies 1000, each of which can be substantially similar to the
interface assemblies 1000 of FIGS. 10A-10E or 11A-11C. Accordingly,
the same reference numbers are utilized throughout FIGS. 12A-12I
for the same or corresponding components or features. The interface
assembly 1000 of FIG. 12A preferably is substantially similar to
the interface assembly 1000 of FIG. 10E, except the illustrated
upper straps 1020 are wider or have a greater height dimension in
the orientation as worn. The upper straps 1020 of the interface
assemblies 1000 of FIGS. 12B-12I can be of a thin construction,
such as a line or cable-type construction, similar to the interface
assembly 1000 of FIG. 10E. The interface assemblies 1000 of FIGS.
12B-12I are described with respect the differences relative to the
interface assembly 1000 of FIG. 12A.
[0180] In the interface assembly 1000 of FIG. 12B, the rear section
of the rigid backbone 1060 sits lower on the user's head compared
to the interface assembly 1000 of FIG. 12A. Preferably, the rear
portion of the rigid backbone 1060 sits at or near a junction
between the skull and the neck muscles of the user. In some
configurations, the rear portion can sit on the neck muscles of the
user. In addition, the lower straps 1018 can be straight and
arranged in a generally horizontal manner from the rear portion of
the rigid backbone 1060 to the mask 1002.
[0181] In the interface assembly 1000 of FIG. 12C, the rear portion
of the rigid backbone 1060 is higher than the interface assembly
1000 of FIG. 12A and, preferably, sits on the occipital bone of the
user. Such an arrangement reduces the likelihood of the headgear
1004 rotating on the user's head. The rigid backbone 1060 can
extend downwardly from the rear portion and partially around the
ear of the user in a manner similar to the ear loops 1070 of FIG.
10C. The crown strap 1016 and the rear portion of the rigid
backbone 1060 can be oriented approximately perpendicular to one
another.
[0182] In the interface assembly 1000 of FIG. 12D, the rigid
backbone 1060 includes ear portions similar to the ear loops 1070
of FIGS. 10C and 12C. However, preferably, the rear portion of the
rigid backbone 1060 passes across the top of the head, such as
across the parietal bone. In some configurations, the rear portion
of the rigid backbone 1060 passes across an intermediate portion of
the parietal bone and can be positioned generally between the crown
strap 1016 and the rear portion of the rigid backbone 1060 of the
headgear 1004 of FIG. 12C. Accordingly, the crown strap 1016 can be
omitted in the headgear 1004 of FIG. 12D.
[0183] The interface assembly 1000 of FIG. 12E is similar to the
interface assembly 1000 of FIG. 12D except that the rigid backbone
1060 includes full ear loops similar to the ear loops 1070 of FIG.
10D. The lower straps 1018 can extend from a lower portion of the
ear loops of the rigid backbone 1060 to a lower portion of the mask
1002. In the illustrated arrangement, the lower straps 1018 extend
from a position above a lowermost portion of the ear loop. However,
in other arrangements, the lower straps 1018 could extend from a
lowermost portion of the ear loops and/or could be generally
horizontal.
[0184] In the interface assembly 1000 of FIG. 12F, the lower strap
1018 includes additional material at least in the rear portion to
increase the height of the strap 1018 and the overall height of the
combination of the strap 1018 and the rear portion of the rigid
backbone 1060. A lower edge of the rear portion of the strap 1018
can be positioned at or near a junction between the skull and the
neck muscles of the user. In some configurations, the lower edge
can be on the neck muscles of the user. In some configurations, the
entire rear portion can be defined by the rigid backbone 1060.
[0185] Relative to the interface assembly 1000 of FIG. 12F, the
interface assembly 1000 of FIG. 12G includes relatively rigid
extensions 1062 provided on lateral sides of the rear portion of
the rigid backbone 1060. Preferably, the extensions 1062 extend
downwardly and/or forwardly from the rear portion of the rigid
backbone 1060 and provide an anchor point or support for the lower
straps 1018. Such an arrangement can guide the lower straps 1018
and, in some configurations, permit the lower straps 1018 to have a
generally horizontal orientation.
[0186] In the interface assembly 1000 of FIG. 12H, the rigid
backbone 1060 is shaped substantially similar to the rigid backbone
1060 of FIG. 12A. Preferably, the rear portion of the rigid
backbone 1060 extends across a lower portion of the bottom of the
user's skull, such as across the occipital bone and, in some
configurations, above the user's neck muscles. The lower straps
1018 preferably extend in a generally horizontal manner and can
connect at a higher point on the mask 1002 relative to the
interface assembly 1000 of FIG. 12. In some configurations, the
lower straps 1018 are still vertically-spaced from the upper straps
1020 at the mask 1002. The lower straps 1018 can include a
downwardly-curved or U-shaped section that defines a cut-out or
space to accommodate the user's ears.
[0187] In the interface assembly 1000 of FIG. 12I, the rigid
backbone 1060 defines a halo portion 1014 including a rear portion
and a portion equivalent to the crown strap. The entire halo
portion 1014 can be constructed from a relatively rigid material,
such as a semi-rigid or rigid material, or certain portions can be
constructed from a relatively rigid material (e.g., the hook
portions) and other portions can be constructed from a relatively
less rigid material (e.g., the upper crown portion).
[0188] FIGS. 13-15 illustrate an interface assembly 1300 that is
arranged and configured in accordance with certain features,
aspects and advantages of the present disclosure. The illustrated
interface assembly 1300 includes an interface 1302 and a headgear
1304. The illustrated interface 1302 is a nasal-oral mask but, as
described herein, other types of interfaces can be used with the
disclosed headgear 1304. The illustrated mask 1302 generally
comprises a frame 1306 that supports a seal 1308. The mask 1302 can
be connected to a supply conduit (not shown), which can be used to
supply breathing gases to a user. As described above, in some
configurations, the mask 1302 can seal around a mouth of a user and
on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask 1302 can provide
pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth of the
user.
[0189] The headgear 1304 can be coupled to the mask 1302 at one or
more mounting locations or mounting points 1310, as described
below. The headgear 1304 can include a crown strap 1316 that
extends across the top of the user's head. Preferably, a lower
strap 1318 and an upper strap 1320 are provided on each side of the
headgear 1304 to connect the mask 1302 to the rear halo portion
1314 or a rear portion of the headgear 1304. Preferably, the
headgear 1304 can also define a front halo portion 1312. Unless
indicated otherwise, features of the interface assembly 1300 or
portions thereof can be the same as or similar to other interfaces
or portions thereof described herein, or can be of another suitable
arrangement.
[0190] The headgear 1304 can incorporate one or more support
portions or support members 1330 that can engage the head of the
user to help secure the headgear 1304 in place, guide portions of
the headgear 1304 in a desired path, or improve user comfort or
user experience. In some configurations, the support members 1330
can contact an anatomical feature of the user's head. In the
illustrated configuration, the upper straps 1320 include cheek
supports 1330 that contact the cheeks of the user. In particular,
the cheek supports 1330 can contact the cheeks at or near a
location of the zygomatic and/or maxilla bones of the user. The
cheek supports 1330 can be utilized to guide the upper straps 1320
into a non-linear path. The cheek supports 1330 can allow the upper
straps 1320 to extend from the mask 1302 initially in a generally
lateral direction and then upwardly to a connection point with the
halo portion 1314 or a junction between the crown strap 1316 and a
rear strap portion 1350 of the headgear 1304. The non-linear path
can position the upper straps 1320 further from the user's eyes for
improved vision and/or comfort.
[0191] In some configurations, the cheek supports 1330 can be
relatively rigid and can anchor against the user's cheeks to reduce
compression of the seal 1308 of the mask 1002 in response to
tightening of the headgear 1304. That is, the cheek supports 1330
inhibit the retention force of the headgear 1304 from being fully
transferred to the seal 1308. The cheek supports 1330 can be
provided with a soft covering or skin-contact material for comfort
and/or to increase grip on the user's skin to assist with
redirection of the upper straps 1320. In some configurations, the
cheek supports 1330 can be a portion of the mask frame 1306. In
some configurations, the cheek supports 1330 can be a separate
member that is coupled to the mask frame 1306. The cheek supports
1330 can have an upwardly curved shape (in the illustrated
orientation) to be positioned out of or further away from the
user's line of sight for a less intrusive experience when worn.
[0192] FIG. 16 illustrates an interface assembly 1600 that is
arranged and configured in accordance with certain features,
aspects and advantages of the present disclosure. The illustrated
interface assembly 1600 includes an interface 1602 and a headgear
1604. The illustrated interface 1602 is a nasal-oral mask but, as
described herein, other types of interfaces can be used with the
disclosed headgear 1604. The illustrated mask 1602 generally
comprises a frame 1606 that supports a seal 1608. The mask 1602 can
be connected to a supply conduit 1609, which can be used to supply
breathing gases to a user. As described above, in some
configurations, the mask 1602 can seal around a mouth of a user and
on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask 1602 can provide
pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth of the
user.
[0193] The headgear 1604 can be coupled to the mask 1602 at one or
more mounting locations or mounting points 1610. Preferably, a
lower strap 1618 and an upper strap 1620 are provided on each side
of the headgear 1604 to connect the mask 1602 to a rear portion of
the headgear 1604. Unless indicated otherwise, features of the
interface assembly 1600 or portions thereof can be the same as or
similar to other interfaces or portions thereof described herein,
or can be of another suitable arrangement.
[0194] The illustrated headgear 1604 is of a pocket-like
arrangement that receives and cups the back of the user's head. In
the illustrated configuration, the headgear 1604 is of a skeleton
or web-like configuration that includes interior open spaces within
the headgear 1604. In some configurations, an outer perimeter 1614
of the headgear 1604 generally defines a rear halo portion.
Interior strap portions 1622 extend between different points of the
perimeter 1614 in generally vertical and/or generally horizontal
directions and can help maintain the shape of the outer perimeter
1614. The upper strap 1620 and the rear portion of the headgear
1604 can cooperate to define a front halo portion 1612.
[0195] The headgear 1604 can include one or more relatively rigid
portions 1624, which can be more rigid than other portions of the
headgear 1604 and can be semi-rigid or rigid. The rigid portions
1624 can define mounting locations between the rear portion of the
headgear 1604 and one or both of the lower strap 1618 and the upper
strap 1620. In some configurations, the rigid portions 1624 can be
located behind each ear of the user and can be curved to generally
follow the shape of the ear. The rigid portions 1624 can provide
anchor points for the lower strap 1618 and upper strap 1620 below
and above the ear, respectively. The rigid portions 1624 can
transfer the load of the straps 1618, 1620 to a larger portion of
the rear portion of the headgear 1604 and help maintain the shape
of the outer perimeter 1614 of the headgear 1604 in response to
forces applied by the straps 1618, 1620. The interior straps 1614
and portions of the outer perimeter 1614 other than the rigid
portions 1624 can be constructed from a flexible, less rigid
material, such as a textile material, for example. Such an
arrangement can provide even load distribution over a significant
area of the user's head without excessive heat retention.
[0196] The lower strap 1618 and upper strap 1620 can be constructed
from an elastic material to have some amount of stretch. The
stretch inherent in the straps 1618, 1620 can be selected to
provide an appropriate mounting force for the mask 1602. However,
the straps 1618, 1620 could, in addition or in the alternative, be
capable of length adjustment. In some configurations, a portion
1626 of the mask 1602 to which the straps 1618, 1620 are coupled
can be removable to loosen the straps and facilitate fitment or
removal of the interface assembly 1610. For example, the removable
portion 1626 can have a snap-fit arrangement with a remainder of
the mask 1602. The removable portion 1626 can be selectively
disengaged from the remainder of the mask 1602. The removable
portion 1626 can be completely separated from the remainder of the
mask 1602 such that the interface assembly 1600 defines an open
loop or the removable portion 1626 can remain tethered to the
remainder of the mask 1602 to create an increased-circumference to
facilitate fitment or removal of the interface assembly 1600. A
push button release 1628 can be provided to facilitate
disengagement of the removable portion 1626. The removable portion
1626 can be coupled to the remainder of the mask 1602 by any
suitable coupling arrangement, including those disclosed herein,
for example but without limitation. A removable portion 1626 can be
provided on each side of the mask 1602, if desired.
[0197] FIG. 17 illustrates an interface assembly 1700 that is
arranged and configured in accordance with certain features,
aspects and advantages of the present disclosure. The illustrated
interface assembly 1700 includes an interface 1702 and a headgear
1704. The illustrated interface 1702 is a nasal-oral mask but, as
described herein, other types of interfaces can be used with the
disclosed headgear 1704. The illustrated mask 1702 generally
comprises a frame 1706 that supports a seal 1708. The mask 1702 can
be connected to a supply conduit (not shown), which can be used to
supply breathing gases to a user. As described above, in some
configurations, the mask 1702 can seal around a mouth of a user and
on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask 1702 can provide
pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth of the
user.
[0198] The headgear 1704 can be coupled to the mask 1702 at one or
more mounting locations or mounting points 1710. Preferably, the
mask 1702 is capable of rotational adjustment relative to the
headgear 1704 to permit angular adjustment of the mask 1702 to fit
different facial geometries. Unlike the prior interfaces that rely
on a pair of straps to permit angular adjustment of the mask, the
interface assembly 1700 utilizes relative rotational movement
between the mask 1702 and the headgear 1704, as described below.
Unless indicated otherwise, features of the interface assembly 1700
or portions thereof can be the same as or similar to other
interfaces or portions thereof described herein, or can be of
another suitable arrangement.
[0199] The headgear 1704 can comprise a single side arm or side
strap 1720 on each side of the interface assembly 1700. The side
strap 1720 can be relatively rigid such that it substantially
retains its shape in response to normal or expected forces in use.
The side strap 1720 can extend from the mask 1702 to a location
above the user's ear. In some configurations, the side strap 1720
can be curved along its length. The side strap 1720 can connect to
the mask 1702 at a mounting point 1710 that is located in a
generally intermediate vertical position of the mask 1702, as
illustrated. However, in other configurations, the mounting point
1710 can be located elsewhere, such as generally at a pivot point
of the mask 1702 at a junction between the underside of the user's
nose and the user's upper lip (see, for example, FIGS. 1 and 84).
The side strap 1720 can curve upwardly in a direction from front to
rear to be positioned at a desirable location on the user's face,
which can be away from the user's eyes. In some configurations, the
side strap 1720 can include padding that rests against the user's
skin, such as a cheek pad 1730 on an inside surface of the side
strap 1720. In other configurations, a greater portion or a
substantial entirety of the side strap 1720 can be provided with
padding. As described above, the mask 1702 can be rotatable
relative to the side strap 1720 and, preferably, can be secured in
a desired rotational position.
[0200] The headgear 1704 can include a crown strap 1716. In some
configurations, the crown strap 1716 can be integrated or formed as
a single piece with the side straps 1720. For example, the crown
strap 1716 can be constructed from a less rigid material, such as a
semi-rigid material, and can be removably or permanently coupled to
the side straps 1720. The crown strap 1716 can be a member that is
overmolded onto the side straps 1720. Each side strap 1720 can
include an extension or mounting portion 1724 that provides a
mechanical interface for the overmolded crown strap 1716. In some
configurations, the crown strap 1716 can be formed from a
thermoplastic elastomer or silicone material, for example.
[0201] The headgear 1704 can also include a rear strap 1750 that
extends along the back of the user's head between rear portions of
the side straps 1720. The rear strap 1750 can be relatively less
rigid than the side straps 1720. In some configurations, the rear
strap 1750 is a flexible and/or somewhat stretchable material, such
as a textile material. The rear strap 1750 can have one or more
adjustment portions 1752, such as an adjustment portion 1752 on
each end of the rear strap 1750. The adjustment portion 1752 can be
an adjustable loop that is passed through an opening or slot 1754
of the side strap 1720. The loop can be secured to the rear strap
1750 by a suitable connector 1756, such as a hook-and-loop
fastener, for example. In some configurations, one or more
additional adjustment points can be provided, such as an adjustment
feature 1722 within the crown strap 1716, which permits a length of
the crown strap 1716 to be adjusted. In the illustrated
configurations, three adjustment points are provided, thereby
permitting adjustment of a circumference of a front halo portion
1712 (via the adjustment feature 1722) and a circumference of a
rear halo portion 1714 (via the adjustment feature 1722 and the
adjustment portions 1752).
[0202] FIG. 18 illustrates an interface assembly 1700 preferably
that is substantially similar to the interface assembly 1700 of
FIG. 17. Accordingly, the same reference numbers are utilized for
the same or corresponding components or features. The interface
assembly 1700 of FIG. 18 is described with respect the differences
relative to the interface assembly 1700 of FIG. 17. Unless
indicated otherwise, features of the interface assembly 1700 or
portions thereof can be the same as or similar to other interfaces
or portions thereof of the interface assembly 1700 of FIG. 17,
other interface assemblies described herein, or can be of another
suitable arrangement.
[0203] The side strap 1720 of the interface assembly 1700 of FIG.
18 can have a rearward end positioned at or near a forward, upper
portion of the user's ear. The side strap 1720 and the rear strap
1750 can connect to a base of the crown strap 1716, which can be a
separate component from the side strap 120 and/or rear strap 1750.
The rearward end of the side strap 1720 can include a hook 1760
that engages a loop 1762 of the crown strap 1716. The loop 1762 can
be a portion of the crown strap 1716 material that is folded over
onto itself and sewn in place. Other suitable arrangements can also
be used, such as a ring member coupled to the crown strap 1716, for
example. The adjustment portion 1752 of the rear strap 1750 can be
a sliding buckle adjuster, for example.
[0204] FIG. 19 illustrates a rotational adjustment arrangement or
rotational adjuster 1900 that can provide rotational adjustment
between two components of an interface assembly, such as between
the mask and the headgear. The rotational adjuster 1900 can be
utilized in the interface assemblies 1700 of FIGS. 17 and 18, for
example, as well as other interface assemblies, including those
disclosed herein. For convenience, the rotational adjuster 1900 is
described in the context of the interface assemblies 1700.
[0205] Preferably, the rotational adjuster 1900 includes a first
portion 1902 that is capable of engagement with a second portion
1904 in a plurality of rotational positions in order to adjust the
fit to different facial geometries. In the illustrated arrangement,
the first portion 1902 is a male portion and the second portion
1904 is a female portion. The first portion 1902 is formed by,
carried by or otherwise coupled to the headgear 1704 (e.g., the
side strap 1720) and the second portion 1904 is formed by, carried
by or otherwise coupled to the mask 1702. However, this arrangement
could be reversed. The illustrated first portion 1902 is an axle
and the illustrated second portion 1904 is a sleeve or hub. The
axle 1902 is received within the sleeve 1904 in one of a plurality
of optional rotational positions. The axle 1902 and the sleeve 1904
can comprise cooperating interference or detent surfaces 1906,
which permit rotational adjustment between a plurality of relative
rotational positions. The detent surfaces 1906 can be of any
suitable arrangement, such as protrusions and recesses, for
example.
[0206] In some configurations, the axle 1902 comprises two or more
flexible or deflectable tabs 1908 to permit the axle 1902 to be
assembled into engagement with the sleeve 1904. Preferably, the
tabs 1908 are stiff enough to inhibit undesired rotational movement
of the mask 1702 in response to normal or expected forces in use. A
rim or flange 1910 can be provided at a free end of the axle 1902
to secure the axle 1902 within the sleeve 1904 in an axial
direction. However, other rotational adjustment arrangements can be
used with the interface assembly 1700 or any other interface
assembly disclosed herein. Any suitable arrangement for providing
rotational adjustment between two components can be used. In some
configurations, the rotational adjustment arrangement can be fixed
in the desired rotational position instead of relying on another
fixing component, such as another mask strap, for example. For
example, a nut-and-bolt arrangement, ratchet-type arrangement or
other types of detent arrangements could be used, among other
suitable arrangements.
[0207] FIG. 20 illustrates an interface assembly 2000 that is
arranged and configured in accordance with certain features,
aspects and advantages of the present disclosure. The illustrated
interface assembly 2000 includes an interface 2002 and a headgear
2004. The illustrated interface 2002 is a nasal-oral mask but, as
described herein, other types of interfaces can be used with the
disclosed headgear 2004. The illustrated mask 2002 generally
comprises a frame 2006 that supports a seal 2008. The mask 2002 can
be connected to a supply conduit (not shown), which can be used to
supply breathing gases to a user. As described above, in some
configurations, the mask 2002 can seal around a mouth of a user and
on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask 2002 can provide
pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth of the
user.
[0208] The headgear 2004 can be coupled to the mask 2002 at one or
more mounting locations or mounting points 2010. Preferably, a
lower strap 2018 and an upper strap 2020 are provided on each side
of the headgear 2004 to connect the mask 2002 to a rear portion of
the headgear 2004. Unless indicated otherwise, features of the
interface assembly 2000 or portions thereof can be the same as or
similar to other interfaces or portions thereof described herein,
or can be of another suitable arrangement.
[0209] In the illustrated arrangement, forward ends of the lower
strap 2018 and the upper strap 2020 can join one another and be
coupled to the mask 2002 at a single mounting location or mounting
point 2010 on each side of the mask 2002. The rear strap portion
2050 can have bifurcated end portions, each having an upper end
portion 2052 and a lower end portion 2054. The upper end portion
2052 can connect to the upper strap 2020 and, in some
configurations, with a crown strap 2016. The lower end portion 2054
can connect to the lower strap 2018. In some configurations, the
lower strap 2018, upper strap 2020, crown strap 2016 and rear strap
portion 2050 can be constructed as a single piece or single
structure of any suitable material, such as a relatively flexible
material. The crown strap 2016 can include an adjustment feature
2022 to permit adjustment of a front halo portion 2012 and a rear
halo portion 2014 and/or other adjustment mechanisms for the
headgear 2004 can be provided.
[0210] An adjustment strap 2060 can be provided on each side of the
interface assembly 2000 to couple the mask 2002 to a main portion
of the headgear 2004. The adjustment strap 2060 can engage a buckle
2062, which can be connected to the main portion of the headgear
2004 (e.g., the combined forward ends of the straps 2018, 2020) by
any suitable arrangement, including a loop 2064 of material, for
example. The adjustment strap 2060 can be movable within the buckle
to adjust an effective length of the strap 2060 and thereby adjust
a position of the mask 2002 relative to the headgear 2004. To
tighten the strap 2060, a user can pull on a free end 2066 of the
strap 2060. Such an arrangement can be quieter to adjust and/or
easier to fine tune the adjustment compared to a hook-and-loop
fastener adjustment, for example.
[0211] The mask 2002 can include an elongate slot 2070 near an edge
of the mask frame 2006 such that the mask frame 2006 defines an
elongate bar 2072. The strap 2060 can be secured to the bar 2062 to
couple the strap 2060 to the mask 2002. In some configurations, the
slot 2070 and/or bar 2072 define a length (or height in the
illustrated orientation) that is greater than a width (or height in
the illustrated orientation) of the strap 2060 such that the strap
2060 is movable within the slot 2070 or along the bar 2072.
Preferably, the slot 2070 and/or bar 2072 are arcuate or curved in
shape such that moving the mask 2002 relative to the strap 2060
changes an angle or rotational position of the mask 2002 relative
to the headgear 2004 and the user. In use, the user can position
the mask 2002 and headgear 2004 and then tighten the strap(s) 2060
to secure the mask 2002 in place. The strap(s) 2060 can
automatically settle into a desired location within the slot 2070
or along the bar 2072. The user could also manually adjust an angle
or rotational position of the mask 2002 relative to the strap(s)
2060 and/or headgear 2004 after the interface assembly 2000 has
been fitted.
[0212] FIG. 21 illustrates an interface assembly 2100 that is
arranged and configured in accordance with certain features,
aspects and advantages of the present disclosure. The illustrated
interface assembly 2100 includes an interface 2102 and a headgear
2104. The illustrated interface 2102 is a nasal-oral mask but, as
described herein, other types of interfaces can be used with the
disclosed headgear 2104. The illustrated mask 2102 generally
comprises a frame 2106 that supports a seal 2108. The mask 2102 can
be connected to a supply conduit (not shown), which can be used to
supply breathing gases to a user. As described above, in some
configurations, the mask 2102 can seal around a mouth of a user and
on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask 2102 can provide
pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth of the
user.
[0213] The headgear 2104 can be coupled to the mask 2102 at one or
more mounting locations or mounting points 2110. Preferably, a
lower strap 2118 and an upper strap 2120 are provided on each side
of the headgear 2104 to connect the mask 2102 to a rear portion of
the headgear 2104. Unless indicated otherwise, features of the
interface assembly 2100 or portions thereof can be the same as or
similar to other interfaces or portions thereof described herein,
or can be of another suitable arrangement.
[0214] In the illustrated arrangement, the mask 2102 includes an
elongate, rearwardly-extending rigid arm 2160 on each side of the
mask 2102 that is coupled to a respective one of the upper straps
2120 of the headgear 2104. In some configurations, the rigid arm
2160 can be a portion of the mask frame 2106. In some
configurations, the rigid arm 2160 can be a separate member that is
coupled to the mask frame 2006. The rigid arm 2160 can have an
upwardly curved shape (in the illustrated orientation) to be
positioned out of or further away from the user's line of sight for
a less intrusive experience when worn. In some configurations, the
rigid arm 2160 can include padding, such as a cheek pad 2130 that
contacts the skin of the user for comfort and/or grip on the
skin.
[0215] The rigid arm 2160 can be coupled to the upper strap 2120 by
any suitable arrangement. In some configurations, the rigid arm
2160 includes an opening 2162 through which the upper strap 2120
can be passed and doubled over on itself to form a loop. The loop
of the upper strap 2120 can be secured by a connector 2156, such as
a hook-and-loop fastener, for example. In some configurations, the
opening 2162 of the rigid arm 2160 is defined by a hook 2164, which
defines an entry into the opening 2162 to facilitate quick
separation of the upper strap 2120 from the rigid arm 2160.
[0216] The lower strap 2118 can be coupled to the mask 2102 by any
suitable arrangement, such as passed through an opening 2170 in the
mask 2102 and doubled over on itself to form a loop. The loop of
the lower strap 2118 can be secured by a connector 2172, such as a
hook-and-loop fastener, for example. As in other interface
assemblies described herein, the upper strap 2120 and lower strap
2118 can be adjusted to place the mask 2102 in a desirable
rotational position. In some configurations, the crown strap 2116
can include an adjustment feature 2122. Other suitable arrangements
can also be used to permit adjustment of the headgear 2104 (e.g.,
the front halo portion 2112 and/or rear halo portion 2114),
including one or more of the lower strap 2118, upper strap 2120 and
crown strap 2116, for example and without limitation.
[0217] FIGS. 22A and 22B illustrate interface assemblies 2200 that
are arranged and configured in accordance with certain features,
aspects and advantages of the present disclosure. The illustrated
interface assemblies 2200 include an interface 2202 and a headgear
2204. The illustrated interface 2202 is a nasal-oral mask but, as
described herein, other types of interfaces can be used with the
disclosed headgear 2204. The illustrated mask 2202 generally
comprises a frame 2206 that supports a seal 2208. The mask 2202 can
be connected to a supply conduit (not shown), which can be used to
supply breathing gases to a user. As described above, in some
configurations, the mask 2202 can seal around a mouth of a user and
on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask 2202 can provide
pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth of the user.
The frame 2206 can comprise rigid, upwardly-extending paddle
portions 2206a positioned on each side of the nose portion of the
seal 2208 to resist expansion of the nose portion of the seal 2208
in response to pressurized air within the mask 2202.
[0218] The headgear 2204 can be coupled to the mask 2202 at one or
more mounting locations or mounting points 2210. Preferably, a
lower strap 2218 and an upper strap 2220 are provided on each side
of the headgear 2204 to connect the mask 2202 to a rear portion of
the headgear 2204. Unless indicated otherwise, features of the
interface assemblies 2200 or portions thereof can be the same as or
similar to other interfaces or portions thereof described herein,
or can be of another suitable arrangement. In particular, the
interface assemblies 2200 are similar to the interface assembly
2100 of FIG. 21 and, for the sake of convenience, will be described
in the context of the differences relative to that interface
assembly 2100.
[0219] In the illustrated arrangement of FIG. 22A, the upper strap
2220 is coupled to the mask 2202 at a mounting point 2210 that is
located at or near the seal 2208 of the mask 2202. In particular,
the mounting point 2210 of the upper strap 2220 preferably is
located between a forward edge and a rearward edge of the seal 2208
when viewed from the side. In some configurations, the mounting
point 2210 is located at or near the upper end of the seal 2208
and/or at or near the user's nose. Such an arrangement can provide
a suitable force vector to facilitate the creation of a seal
between the mask seal 2208 and the underside of the user's nose.
The upper strap 2220 can be coupled to the mask 2202 by any
suitable arrangement, such as passed through an opening 2262 in the
mask 2202 and doubled over on itself to form a loop. The loop of
the upper strap 2220 can be secured by a connector 2256, such as a
hook-and-loop fastener, for example.
[0220] The lower strap 2218 can be coupled to the mask 2202 at a
mounting point 2210 that is located toward a bottom portion of the
seal 2208, such as at or near the user's mount or chin. In a
fore-aft direction, the mounting point 2210 can be generally
aligned with the mounting point 2210 of the upper strap 2220. The
lower strap 2218 can be coupled to the mask 2202 by any suitable
arrangement, such as passed through an opening 2270 in the mask
2202 and doubled over on itself to form a loop. The loop of the
lower strap 2218 can be secured by a connector 2272, such as a
hook-and-loop fastener, for example.
[0221] As in other interface assemblies described herein, the upper
strap 2220 and lower strap 2218 can be adjusted to place the mask
2202 in a desirable rotational position. The substantial vertical
separation between the mounting points 2210 of the upper strap 2220
and the lower strap 2218 permits fine control of the angular
adjustment of the mask 2202.
[0222] In some configurations, a crown strap 2216 of the headgear
2204 can include an adjustment feature 2222. Other suitable
arrangements can also be used to permit adjustment of the headgear
2204 (e.g., the front halo portion 2212 and/or rear halo portion
2214), including one or more of the lower strap 2218, upper strap
2220 and crown strap 2216, for example and without limitation.
[0223] The interface assembly 2200 of FIG. 22B provides
quick-release couplings 2280 between the mask 2202 and the headgear
2204. In particular, each strap 2218, 2220 is coupled to the mask
by a clip 2282, which preferably includes a hook-shaped end portion
or other suitable arrangement to engage the respective openings
2262, 2270 of the mask 2202. The straps 2218, 2220 can be adjusted
relative to the clips 2282. In addition, the headgear 2204 includes
separate upper and lower portions. The upper strap 2220 is coupled
to the upper portion of the headgear 2204, which preferably
includes the crown strap 2216 and a first or upper rear head strap
2290. The upper strap 2220, the crown strap 2216 and the upper rear
head strap 2290 cooperate to form the front halo portion 2212 and
the rear halo portion 2214. The upper rear head strap 2290 can
extend around the back of the user's head at, near or above a level
of an upper portion of the user's ears, such as on or near a
transition between the parietal bone and the occipital bone. The
lower strap 2218 is coupled to a second or lower rear head strap
2292, which can extend around the back of the user's head at, near
or blow a level of a lower portion of the user's ears. In some
configurations, the lower rear head strap 2292 sits on the user's
occipital bone and/or on the user's upper neck muscles. A rear
portion of the lower rear head strap 2292 can be enlarged in a
vertical direction to spread the load on the user's neck and/or
head area. The provision of separate straps 2290, 2292 can
facilitate fitting and removal.
[0224] FIGS. 23 and 24 illustrate an interface assembly 2300 that
is arranged and configured in accordance with certain features,
aspects and advantages of the present disclosure. The illustrated
interface assembly 2300 includes an interface 2302 and a headgear
2304. The illustrated interface 2302 is a nasal-oral mask but, as
described herein, other types of interfaces can be used with the
disclosed headgear 2304. The illustrated mask 2302 generally
comprises a frame 2306 that supports a seal 2308. The mask 2302 can
be connected to a supply conduit (not shown), which can be used to
supply breathing gases to a user. As described above, in some
configurations, the mask 2302 can seal around a mouth of a user and
on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask 2302 can provide
pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth of the
user.
[0225] The headgear 2304 can be coupled to the mask 2302 at one or
more mounting locations or mounting points 2310. Preferably, a
strap 2315 including a lower strap portion 2318 and an upper strap
portion 2320 is provided on one or both sides of the headgear 2304
to connect the mask 2302 to a rear portion of the headgear 2304. In
some configurations, the strap 2315 can be substantially
non-stretchable. The strap 2315 can be constructed from a thin
textile webbing. Unless indicated otherwise, features of the
interface assembly 2300 or portions thereof can be the same as or
similar to other interfaces or portions thereof described herein,
or can be of another suitable arrangement.
[0226] In the illustrated configuration, each strap 2315 on each
side of the interface assembly 2300 is a single strap comprising an
upper strap portion 2320 and a lower strap portion 2318. One or
both of the upper strap portion 2320 and the lower strap portion
2318 can be adjustably secured to the headgear 2304. In the
illustrated arrangement, the upper strap portion 2320 is fixedly
secured to the headgear 2304 and the lower strap portion 2318 is
adjustably secured to the headgear 2304. However, this arrangement
could be reversed. The lower strap portion 2318 can be coupled to
the headgear 2304 by a suitable adjustment mechanism, such as a
buckle 2340, for example and without limitation.
[0227] The strap 2315 can include an intermediate strap portion
2350 that engages the mask 2302 at the mounting points 2310. The
mask 2302 can include a pair of spaced-apart mounting points 2310
on the same side of the mask 2302. In some configurations, the
mounting points 2310 comprise an upper mounting point and a lower
mounting point. One of the upper and lower mounting points 2310 can
permit the intermediate strap portion 2350 to be conveniently
disengaged from the mounting point 2310 to provide slack in the
strap 2315, which can facilitate fitment or removal of the
interface assembly 2300. If such straps 2315 are provided on each
side of the interface assembly 2300, the amount of slack provided
can be doubled.
[0228] In the illustrated arrangement, the mask 2302 comprises a
retention structure 2360, such as a cleat or a block, around which
the intermediate strap portion 2350 can be passed and retained and
which defines a mounting point 2310. However, other suitable
structures or arrangements could also be used. Preferably, the mask
2302 also comprises a guide 2362 for the intermediate strap portion
2350 that defines another mounting point 2310. The guide 2362 can
be an opening or slot that preferably frictionally engages the
intermediate strap portion 2350 to inhibit or prevent movement in
response to normal or expected forces on the strap 2315 during use
to retain the mask 2302 in a desired orientation (e.g., angular
orientation) relative to the headgear 2304. However, preferably,
the guide 2362 allows movement of the strap 2315 when desired to
permit adjustment of the mask 2302 relative to the headgear 2304.
In the illustrated arrangement, the guide 2362 defines an upper
mounting point 2310 and the retention structure 2360 defines a
lower mounting point 2310. However, this arrangement could be
reversed or the mounting points 2310 could be otherwise spaced.
[0229] The headgear 2304 preferably comprises a front halo portion
2312 and a rear halo portion 2314. The headgear 2304 preferably
also comprises a rear strap portion 2370 that is coupled to the
rear halo portion 2314. Adjustment of the rear halo portion 2314
can be provided by, for example, an adjustment feature 2322. The
lower strap portion 2318 can be coupled to the rear strap portion
2370 and the upper strap portion 2320 can be coupled to the rear
strap portion 2370 such that the upper strap portion 2320 is passes
above an ear of the user and the lower strap portion 2318 passes
below the ear of the user.
[0230] In use, the intermediate strap portion 2350 can be
disengaged from the retention structure 2360 to introduce slack
into the strap 2315 as illustrated by the dashed lines of FIG. 24.
The interface assembly 2300 can be fitted to the user with the mask
2302 placed over the user's mouth and against the underside of the
user's nose. The headgear 2304 can be placed on the back of the
user's head. Then, the intermediate strap portion 2350 can be
engaged with the retention structure 2360 to take up the slack in
the strap 2315. If necessary or desired, the rotational position of
the mask 2302 relative to the headgear 2304 can be adjusted by
moving the intermediate strap portion 2350 through the guide 2362.
Preferably, the guide 2362 then holds the intermediate strap
portion 2350 in place to maintain the desired rotational position
of the mask 2302. In some cases, such as if the interface assembly
2300 has been previously fitted, the rotational position of the
mask 2302 may already be set. To remove the interface assembly
2300, the process is reversed and the intermediate strap portion
2350 is disengaged from the retention structure 2360 to provide
slack in the strap 2315. As discussed, such a strap 2315 can be
provided on one or both sides of the interface assembly 2300. Even
if two such straps 2315 are provided, disengagement of one strap
2315 may provide sufficient slack to permit removal of the
interface assembly 2300.
[0231] FIG. 25 illustrates an interface assembly 2500 that is
arranged and configured in accordance with certain features,
aspects and advantages of the present disclosure. The illustrated
interface assembly 2500 includes an interface 2502 and a headgear
2504. The illustrated interface 2502 is a nasal-oral mask but, as
described herein, other types of interfaces can be used with the
disclosed headgear 2504. The illustrated mask 2502 generally
comprises a frame 2506 that supports a seal 2508. The mask 2502 can
be connected to a supply conduit (not shown), which can be used to
supply breathing gases to a user. As described above, in some
configurations, the mask 2502 can seal around a mouth of a user and
on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask 2502 can provide
pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth of the
user.
[0232] The headgear 2504 can be coupled to the mask 2502 at one or
more mounting locations or mounting points 2510. Preferably, a
strap 2515 that includes a lower strap portion 2518 and an upper
strap portion 2520 is provided on each side of the headgear 2504 to
connect the mask 2502 to a rear portion of the headgear 2504.
Unless indicated otherwise, features of the interface assembly 2500
or portions thereof can be the same as or similar to other
interfaces or portions thereof described herein, or can be of
another suitable arrangement. In particular, the interface assembly
2500 is similar to the interface assembly 2300 of FIGS. 23 and 24
and, for the sake of convenience, will be described in the context
of the differences relative to that interface assembly 2300.
[0233] The headgear 2504 preferably comprises a front halo portion
2512, a rear halo portion 2514 and a rear strap portion 2570 that
is coupled to the rear halo portion 2314. Adjustment of the rear
halo portion 2514 can be provided by, for example, an adjustment
feature 2522. The upper strap portion 2320 can be coupled to rear
halo portion 2514 of the headgear 2504.
[0234] An intermediate strap portion 2550 of the strap 2515 extends
from a friction guide 2562 of the mask 2502 to the rear strap
portion 2570 of the headgear 2504. Preferably, a low friction guide
or ring 2540 is coupled to the rear strap portion 2570 of the
headgear 2504. The strap 2515 passes through an opening of the low
friction guide 2540 and a lower strap portion 2518 of the strap
2515 extends toward a lower end of the mask 2502. Preferably, the
lower strap portion 2518 is connected to the mask 2502 by a clip
2360. The clip 2360 can releasably engage the mask 2502, such as
with a hook and bar arrangement, for example. The clip 2360 can
include a buckle portion 2564 through which the lower strap portion
2518 can be passed. The lower strap portion 2518 can be adjusted
relative to the buckle portion 2564 to permit an effective length
of the lower strap portion 2518 to be adjusted.
[0235] Similar to the interface assembly 2300, the strap 2515 can
be adjusted relative to the friction guide 2562 to adjust an
effective length of the upper strap portion 2520. The lower strap
portion 2518 can be adjusted relative to the clip 2360 to adjust an
angular or rotational position of the mask 2502. Adjustment of the
lower strap portion 2518 can also adjust the tension of the strap
2515 when the interface assembly 2500 is fitted to a user.
[0236] To fit or remove the interface assembly 2500, the clip 2560
can be disengaged from the mask 2502, which can free the lower
portion of the mask 2502. With the clip 2360 disengaged, the low
friction guide 2540 also permits an effective length of the
intermediate strap portion 2550 to be increased to thereby increase
a distance between the rear strap portion 2570 and the mask 2502,
which may permit the interface assembly 2500 to be fitted or
removed from the user. In necessary or desired, the strap 2515 can
also be adjusted relative to the friction guide 2562 to increase an
effective length of the upper strap portion 2520 to facilitate
fitment of removal of the interface assembly 2500.
[0237] FIGS. 26-28 illustrate an interface assembly 2600 that is
arranged and configured in accordance with certain features,
aspects and advantages of the present disclosure. The illustrated
interface assembly 2600 includes an interface 2602 and a headgear
2604. The illustrated interface 2602 is a nasal-oral mask but, as
described herein, other types of interfaces can be used with the
disclosed headgear 2604. The illustrated mask 2602 generally
comprises a frame 2606 that supports a seal 2608. The mask 2602 can
be connected to a supply conduit 2609, which can be used to supply
breathing gases to a user. As described above, in some
configurations, the mask 2602 can seal around a mouth of a user and
on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask 2602 can provide
pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth of the user.
The headgear 2604 can be coupled to the mask 2602 at one or more
mounting locations or mounting points 2610. Unless indicated
otherwise, features of the interface assembly 2600 or portions
thereof can be the same as or similar to other interfaces or
portions thereof described herein, or can be of another suitable
arrangement.
[0238] In the illustrated arrangement, a lower strap 2618 and an
upper arm 2620 are provided on each side of the headgear 2604 to
connect the mask 2602 to a rear portion of the headgear 2604.
Preferably, similar to the interface assembly 600 of FIG. 6, the
headgear 2604 of the interface assembly 2600 includes a hook
portion 2615 extending downwardly in front of the user's ear that
supports the lower strap 2618. The upper arm 2620 and the hook
portion 2615 can be an integral or single-piece construction. In
some configurations, a gusset 2630 or other support structure can
be provided between the upper arm 2620 and the hook portion
2615.
[0239] The headgear 2604 can also include a crown strap 2616
portion and a rear strap 2650 portion. The upper arm 2620 and crown
strap 2616 can cooperate to form a front halo portion 2612 and the
rear strap 2650 can cooperate to form a rear halo portion 2614.
Some or all of the upper arm 2620, hook portion 2615, crown strap
2616 and rear strap 2650 portions of the headgear 2604 can be an
integrated or single-piece construction. In some configurations,
some or all of the upper arm 2620, hook portion 2615, crown strap
2616 and rear strap 2650 portions of the headgear 2604 can comprise
a relatively rigid frame 2640 that can be partially or completely
covered by a softer and/or less rigid material exterior or cover
2642. Any materials suitable for the rigid frame 2640 and soft
cover 2642 can be used. For example and without limitation, the
rigid frame 2640 can be constructed from polycarbonate, nylon, ABS,
polypropylene or other materials having similar mechanical
properties, especially with respect to rigidity. The soft cover
2642, for example and without limitation, can be constructed from
silicone, thermoplastic elastomer, thermoplastic polyurethane,
other materials with similar mechanical properties, cloth-type
materials (cloth covered foam), rubber/foam materials or other
suitable soft materials. In some configurations, an adjustment
mechanism, stretchable component or less rigid portion can be
provided within the crown strap 2616 and/or rear strap 2650 to
facilitate size adjustment or fitting. Thus, the headgear 2604
could be constructed from multiple sections or portions (e.g., two
halves), each of which could comprise an integrated or single-piece
construction of some or all of the upper arm 2620, hook portion
2615, crown strap 2616 or rear strap 2650.
[0240] Preferably, a coupler 2644 allows for rotational or pivotal
movement of the mask 2602 relative to the upper arm 2620. Any
suitable arrangement of the coupler 2644 to achieve rotational or
pivotal movement of the mask 2602 can be used. For example, the
mask 2602 can be coupled to the upper arm 2620 by a flexible shaft
or cable or by a pivotal joint. In addition, preferably, the lower
strap 2618 is capable of length adjustment, such as by any of the
adjustment arrangements disclosed herein or any other suitable
arrangement. Accordingly, rotational adjustment and fixation of the
mask 2602 can be achieved. The coupler 2644 can allow the mask to
freely rotate with fixation provided by the lower strap 2618. In
other configurations, other rotational adjustment arrangements
could be used that allow adjustment and fixation of the mask 2602,
such as the arrangement disclosed in connection with FIG. 19, for
example and without limitation.
[0241] In some configurations, one or more portions of the headgear
2604 can comprise a padded portion 2646. For example, a junction
between the upper arm 2620/hook portion 2615, the crown strap 2616
and the rear strap 2650, which can be located generally above the
user's ear, can comprise a padded portion 2646. Any suitable type
of padding can be used. For example, with reference to FIG. 27, a
padding material 2648, such as a gel or other highly compressible
material can be utilized, such as between the rigid frame 2640 and
soft cover 2642. A bottom surface of the section of the headgear
2604 in FIG. 27 represents a surface that would contact the user's
head.
[0242] FIGS. 28A-28C illustrate possible constructions for other
(e.g., non-padded) portions of the headgear 2604. For example,
portions of some or all of the upper arm 2620, hook portion 2615,
crown strap 2616 or rear strap 2650 could be constructed in a
manner similar to any of the arrangements of FIGS. 28A-28C. A
bottom surface of the section of the headgear 2604 in FIGS. 28A-28C
represents a surface that would contact the user's head. The
arrangement of FIG. 28A comprises a variable thickness cover 2642.
For example, the thickness is greater in a center portion of the
cross-section compared to the edge portions, which results in a
non-linear surface adjacent the user's head and/or facing away from
the user's head. FIG. 28B illustrates an arrangement with
consistent thickness of the cover 2642 and the overall
cross-section of the portion of the headgear 2604. FIG. 28C
illustrates a version in which the cover 2642 does not cover an
entirety of the rigid frame 2640. For example, a center portion of
the rigid frame 2640 is left exposed and the cover 2642 is provided
on each edge portion of the rigid frame 2640. Any suitable manner
of coupling the cover 2642 and/or padding 2648 to the rigid frame
2640 can be utilized, such as overmolding, for example.
Arrangements to provide mechanical interlocking of the rigid frame
2640 and the cover 2642 and/or padding 2648 can be utilized for
increased durability.
[0243] FIG. 29 illustrates an interface assembly 2900 that is
arranged and configured in accordance with certain features,
aspects and advantages of the present disclosure. The illustrated
interface assembly 2900 includes an interface 2902 and a headgear
2904. The illustrated interface 2902 is a nasal-oral mask but, as
described herein, other types of interfaces can be used with the
disclosed headgear 2904. The illustrated mask 2902 generally
comprises a frame 2906 that supports a seal 2908. The mask 2902 can
be connected to a supply conduit 2909, which can be used to supply
breathing gases to a user. As described above, in some
configurations, the mask 2902 can seal around a mouth of a user and
on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask 2902 can provide
pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth of the
user.
[0244] The headgear 2904 can be coupled to the mask 2902 at one or
more mounting locations or mounting points 2910. Preferably, a
lower strap portion 2918 and an upper arm 2920 are provided on each
side of the headgear 2904 to connect the mask 2902 to a rear
portion of the headgear 2904. Unless indicated otherwise, features
of the interface assembly 2900 or portions thereof can be the same
as or similar to other interfaces or portions thereof described
herein, or can be of another suitable arrangement. In particular,
the interface assembly 2900 is similar to the interface assembly
2600 of FIGS. 26-28 and, for the sake of convenience, will be
described in the context of the differences relative to that
interface assembly 2600.
[0245] The headgear 2904 utilizes a rear strap 2950 portion that
couples to the hook portion 2915 at a lower end thereof, such that
the rear strap 2950 extends below the user's ear toward the hook
portion 2915. Thus, a crown strap 2916, the hook portion 2915 and
the rear strap 2950 of the headgear 2904 cooperate to form a
generally U-shaped or C-shaped profile. One or more supports, such
as elasticated or semi-rigid straps 2930, can provide support
between different portions of the headgear 2904. For example, one
or more (e.g., a pair) of straps 2930 can extend between the crown
strap 2916 and the rear strap 2950 to support the "ends" of the
U-shaped or C-shaped profile and inhibit those portions from moving
apart from one another. In some configurations, the straps 2930
cross one another.
[0246] In the illustrated configuration, an upper portion of the
mask 2902 is rotationally or pivotally coupled to the upper arm
2920 by a rotational coupling 2944. The lower strap 2918 can permit
adjustment of a rotational position of the mask 2902. For example,
a length of the lower strap 2918 could be adjustable. In some
configurations, the lower strap 2918 can be constructed from an
elasticated material that automatically adjusts a rotational
position of the mask 2902.
[0247] FIG. 30 illustrates one possible construction of the
rotational coupling 2944. In some configurations, one of the mask
2902 and the headgear 2904 supports a shaft or axle 2946 and the
other of the mask 2902 and the headgear 2904 supports a hub 2948.
The hub 2948 is rotatable about the axle 2946 to permit rotational
adjustment of the mask 2902 relative to the headgear 2904. In the
illustrated arrangement, the axle 2946 is carried by the mask 2902
and the hub 2948 is carried by the headgear 2904. However, this
arrangement could be reversed. If desired, a detent assembly could
be utilized to maintain a desired rotational position of the mask
2902. In some configurations, the lower strap 2918 is utilized to
maintain a desired rotational position of the mask 2902.
[0248] FIGS. 31 and 32 illustrate an interface assembly 3100 that
is arranged and configured in accordance with certain features,
aspects and advantages of the present disclosure. The illustrated
interface assembly 3100 includes an interface 3102 and a headgear
3104. The illustrated interface 3102 is a nasal-oral mask but, as
described herein, other types of interfaces can be used with the
disclosed headgear 3104. The illustrated mask 3102 generally
comprises a frame 3106 that supports a seal 3108. The mask 3102 can
be connected to a supply conduit 3109, which can be used to supply
breathing gases to a user. As described above, in some
configurations, the mask 3102 can seal around a mouth of a user and
on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask 3102 can provide
pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth of the
user.
[0249] The headgear 3104 can be coupled to the mask 3102 at one or
more mounting locations or mounting points 3110. Preferably, a
lower strap portion 3118 and an upper strap portion 3120 are
provided on each side of the headgear 3104 to connect the mask 3102
to a rear portion of the headgear 3104. Unless indicated otherwise,
features of the interface assembly 3100 or portions thereof can be
the same as or similar to other interfaces or portions thereof
described herein, or can be of another suitable arrangement. In
particular, the interface assembly 3100 is similar to the interface
assembly 1300 of FIGS. 13-15 and, for the sake of convenience, will
be described in the context of the differences relative to that
interface assembly 1300.
[0250] The upper strap portion 3120 of the headgear 3104
incorporates a cheek pad 3130, which preferably is constructed from
a relatively or highly compressible material for user comfort. FIG.
32 is an enlarged view of the cheek pad 3130 and upper strap
portion 3120 of the opposite side of the headgear 3104 from that
shown in FIG. 31. As illustrated, the cheek pad 3130 can have a
contoured shape, with a wider portion being positioned closer
toward the mask 3102 or centerline of the user's head than the
narrower portion. For example, the cheek pad 3130 could have a
generally teardrop shape, among other possible tapered or
non-tapered shapes. The cheek pad 3130 can be secured to the upper
strap 3120 by any suitable arrangement, such as by overmolding, for
example. In some configurations, the cheek pad 3130 can include an
interior passage and the cheek pad 3130 can be slid onto the upper
strap 3120. If desired, the cheek pad 3130 can be rigid to provide
a hard stop in response to tightening of the headgear 3104 to at
least partially isolate compression of the mask seal 3108 from
tightening forces applied to the headgear 3104, such as described
in connection with FIGS. 13-15 and 75-79, for example.
[0251] The headgear 3104 can include various features configured to
influence the flexibility, strength or rigidity. For example, if
the headgear 3104 is constructed primarily from a flexible
material, the features can alter the inherent or base properties
(e.g., flexibility, strength or rigidity) of the material of the
headgear 3104. In some configurations, the features can comprise
one or more types of strips or ribs 3132 formed into or applied to
the headgear 3104 in a manner to provide desirable properties to
the headgear 3104. For example, elongate ribs 3132 can be provided
on one or more of the upper strap 3120, a crown strap 3116 or a
rear strap 3150 of the headgear 3104. Each or any one of the
elongate ribs 3132 can define an end portion that diverges or
splits, such as an end nearest a convergence of the upper strap
3120, crown strap 3116 or rear strap 3150. For example, the ribs
3132 of the upper strap 3120, crown strap 3116 or rear strap 3150
can increase the tensile or bending strength of the straps.
[0252] A rear portion of the bottom strap 3118 near a junction
between a rearward end of the bottom strap 3118 and the rear strap
3150 can comprise a rib or ribs 3132. For example, a series of ribs
3132 can be vertically-stacked or stacked in a width direction of
the strap 3118. The ribs 3132 can follow a curvature (e.g., an
upward curvature) of the rear portion of the rear strap 3150. The
ribs 3132 of the rear strap 3150 can increase the bending strength
of the rear strap 3150 and can help the curved rearward portion of
the rear strap 3150 maintain its shape in response to loading.
[0253] The lower strap 3118 can include a series of ribs 3132
spaced from one another in a lengthwise direction of the strap
3132. In the illustrated arrangement, the ribs 3132 are or comprise
chevrons. Such an arrangement can inhibit folding of the strap 3118
along a lengthwise axis and/or can increase bending strength, but
can maintain the inherent axial properties (e.g., tensile strength
or flexibility in an axial direction).
[0254] The ribs 3132 can be of any suitable arrangement. For
example, the ribs 3132 could be formed into the material of the
headgear 3104 (e.g., thermoformed). The ribs 3132 could protrude
outwardly from an adjacent or base surface of the headgear 3104 or
could extend inwardly from an adjacent or base surface of the
headgear 3104. In some configurations, the ribs 3132 could be
additional structures that are attached (e.g., adhesive, RF
welding, ultrasonic welding, thermoforming, stitching, chemical
bonding, mechanical bonding or otherwise adhered) to the base
headgear 3104 structure. The features of the headgear 3104 can be
applied to any of the other headgear arrangements described
herein.
[0255] FIG. 33 illustrates an interface assembly 3300 that is
arranged and configured in accordance with certain features,
aspects and advantages of the present disclosure. The illustrated
interface assembly 3300 includes an interface 3302 and a headgear
3304. The illustrated interface 3302 is a nasal-oral mask but, as
described herein, other types of interfaces can be used with the
disclosed headgear 3304. The illustrated mask 3302 generally
comprises a frame 3306 that supports a seal 3308. The mask 3302 can
be connected to a supply conduit (not shown), which can be used to
supply breathing gases to a user. As described above, in some
configurations, the mask 3302 can seal around a mouth of a user and
on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask 3302 can provide
pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth of the
user.
[0256] The headgear 3304 can be coupled to the mask 3302 at one or
more mounting locations or mounting points 3310. Preferably, a
lower strap portion 3318 and an upper strap portion 3320 are
provided on each side of the headgear 3304 to connect the mask 3302
to a rear portion of the headgear 3304. Unless indicated otherwise,
features of the interface assembly 3300 or portions thereof can be
the same as or similar to other interfaces or portions thereof
described herein, or can be of another suitable arrangement.
[0257] The headgear 3304 can comprise a rigid portion or portions
and a less rigid portion or portions. In the illustrated
arrangement, the upper arm 3320 is constructed from a relatively
rigid or rigid material. Other portions of the headgear 3304 can be
constructed from a relatively less rigid material, such as flexible
material. For example, a crown strap 3316 can be coupled to the
rigid upper arm 3320 and can be constructed from a less rigid
material. In some configurations, the headgear 3304 can include a
rear strap 3350 that is coupled to the rigid upper arm 3320 and can
be constructed from a less rigid material. In the illustrated
arrangement, the less rigid portions (e.g., the crown strap 3316,
the rear strap 3350 or the lower arm 3318) of the headgear 3304 can
be coupled to the rigid upper arm 3320 such that forces applied to
the less rigid portions are substantially or primarily axial. That
is, preferably, the forces applied to the less rigid portion are
generally aligned with a lengthwise direction of the portions, in a
direction aligned with a geometric axis of the portions or
otherwise aligned with a direction in which the portions are
configured to resist elongation. In some configurations, an axial
direction can include a direction passing through end points or end
portions of a strap or other component or a direction along which
forces are applied to the strap or other component. In some cases,
the axial direction may not coincide with the shape of the strap or
other component, but may define a virtual axis.
[0258] FIG. 34 illustrates an interface assembly 3400 that is
arranged and configured in accordance with certain features,
aspects and advantages of the present disclosure. The illustrated
interface assembly 3400 includes an interface 3402 and a headgear
3404. The illustrated interface 3402 is a nasal-oral mask but, as
described herein, other types of interfaces can be used with the
disclosed headgear 3404. The illustrated mask 3402 generally
comprises a frame 3406 that supports a seal 3408. The mask 3402 can
be connected to a supply conduit (not shown), which can be used to
supply breathing gases to a user. As described above, in some
configurations, the mask 3402 can seal around a mouth of a user and
on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask 3402 can provide
pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth of the
user.
[0259] The headgear 3404 can be coupled to the mask 3402 at one or
more mounting locations or mounting points 3410. Preferably, a
strap portion 3420 is provided on each side of the headgear 3404 to
connect the mask 3402 to a rear portion of the headgear 3404. In
the illustrated arrangement, the strap portion 3420 is positioned
in a manner similar to the upper straps/arms in other arrangements
disclosed herein and the lower strap can be omitted. Thus, the
strap 3420 on each side can be the only connection between the mask
3402 and a rear portion of the headgear 3404. The strap 3420 can be
oriented generally perpendicular with respect to a halo portion
3414 of the headgear 3404, which can be defined by a combination of
a crown strap portion 3416 and a rear strap portion 3450.
Preferably, the crown strap portion 3416 and the rear strap portion
3450 are aligned with one another such that the halo portion 3414
is generally flat or planar. The strap 3420 can extend upwardly
from the mask 3402 and above the user's ear to the halo portion
3414 and can be generally straight or only slightly curved in
comparison to many upper strap portions disclosed herein.
[0260] The halo portion 3414 can have a forward portion 3414a and a
rearward portion 3414b. The strap 3420 can be coupled to the
rearward portion 3414b and gussets 3460 can extend between the
strap 3420 and the forward portion 3414a of the halo portion 3414
on one or both sides of the strap 3420. The strap 3420 and the halo
portion 3414 can be constructed from a relatively rigid material or
a relatively less-rigid material or any combination thereof. In
some configurations, the strap 3420 can be constructed from a
relatively rigid material and the halo portion 3414 can be
constructed from a relatively less rigid material. Otherwise,
features of the interface assembly 3400 or portions thereof can be
the same as or similar to other interfaces or portions thereof
described herein, or can be of another suitable arrangement.
[0261] FIG. 35 illustrates a portion of an interface assembly 3500
that is arranged and configured in accordance with certain
features, aspects and advantages of the present disclosure. The
illustrated interface assembly 3500 includes an interface 3502 and
a headgear 3504. The illustrated interface 3502 is a nasal-oral
mask but, as described herein, other types of interfaces can be
used with the disclosed headgear 3504. The illustrated mask 3502
generally comprises a frame 3506 that supports a seal 3508. The
mask 3502 can be connected to a supply conduit 3509, which can be
used to supply breathing gases to a user. As described above, in
some configurations, the mask 3502 can seal around a mouth of a
user and on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask 3502
can provide pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth of
the user.
[0262] The headgear 3504 can be coupled to the mask 3502 at one or
more mounting locations or mounting points 3510. Preferably, a
lower strap portion 3518 and an upper strap portion 3520 are
provided on each side of the headgear 3504 to connect the mask 3502
to a rear portion of the headgear 3504. Unless indicated otherwise,
features of the interface assembly 3500 or portions thereof can be
the same as or similar to other interfaces or portions thereof
described herein, or can be of another suitable arrangement.
[0263] The lower strap 3518 and the upper strap 3520 can be coupled
to the mask 3502 by quick-release mechanisms, such as snap-locks or
clips (e.g., hook-and-bar arrangement) 3530. The lower strap 3518
and upper strap 3520 can be rotatable relative to the clips 3530 to
permit angular adjustment of the straps 3518, 3520. For example,
the ends of the straps 3518, 3520 can carry pins 3532 that engage
openings of the clips 3530. The portions of the mask 3502 that
receive the clips 3530 can define one or more elongate protrusions
3534, surfaces of which extend outwardly beyond adjacent surfaces
of the mask 3402. In some configurations, a surface between the
portions of the mask 3502 that receive the clips 3530 is recessed
such that a pair of protrusions 3534 is provided. Such an
arrangement can provide tactile indications of the proper locations
for engaging the clips 3530 with the mask in addition to providing
a unique appearance.
[0264] FIG. 36 illustrates an arrangement in which the clips 3530
are coupled to one another such that both clips 3530 and both
straps 3518, 3520 can be coupled to the mask 3502 in a single
action. For example, a bridge or strut portion 3540 can extend in a
vertical direction between the clips 3530, which could be angled
relative to one another. The clips 3530 and strut 3540 can be
formed from a single piece of material, if desired. In addition, in
the arrangement of FIG. 36, the pins 3532 are carried by the clips
3530 and corresponding openings are provided in the ends of the
straps 3518, 3520.
[0265] FIG. 37 illustrates an interface assembly 3700 that is
arranged and configured in accordance with certain features,
aspects and advantages of the present disclosure. The illustrated
interface assembly 3700 includes an interface 3702 and a headgear
3704. The illustrated interface 3702 is a nasal-oral mask but, as
described herein, other types of interfaces can be used with the
disclosed headgear 3704. The illustrated mask 3702 generally
comprises a frame 3706 that supports a seal 3708. The mask 3702 can
be connected to a supply conduit 3709, which can be used to supply
breathing gases to a user. As described above, in some
configurations, the mask 3702 can seal around a mouth of a user and
on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask 3702 can provide
pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth of the
user.
[0266] The headgear 3704 can be coupled to the mask 3702 at one or
more mounting locations or mounting points 3710. Preferably, a
lower strap portion 3718 and an upper strap portion 3720 are
provided on each side of the headgear 3704 and connect to the mask
3702 by any suitable arrangement, such as by a quick-release
mechanism (e.g., snap-lock or clips). In the illustrated
arrangement, the straps 3718, 3720 extend from one side of the mask
3702 to the other and central portions of the straps 3718, 3720
form a rear portion of the headgear 3704. In addition, the lower
strap 3718 connects to the mask 3702 at an upper mounting point
3710 and the upper strap 3720 connects to the mask 3702 at a lower
mounting point 3710 such that the straps 3718, 3720 cross one
another rearwardly of the mask 3702, preferably between the mask
3702 and the user's ear. The straps 3718, 3720 can be coupled to
one another at the location in which they cross, if desired. The
straps 3718, 3720 can be constructed of a flexible material, which
may be elasticated, and can included enlarged width rear portions
3718a, 3720a to spread load for user comfort. In other
arrangements, the straps 3718, 3720 could connect to a separate
rear portion of a headgear 3704. Unless indicated otherwise,
features of the interface assembly 3700 or portions thereof can be
the same as or similar to other interfaces or portions thereof
described herein, or can be of another suitable arrangement.
[0267] FIGS. 38 and 39 illustrate an interface assembly 3800 that
is arranged and configured in accordance with certain features,
aspects and advantages of the present disclosure. The illustrated
interface assembly 3800 includes an interface 3802 and a headgear
3804. The illustrated interface 3802 is a nasal-oral mask but, as
described herein, other types of interfaces can be used with the
disclosed headgear 3804. The illustrated mask 3802 generally
comprises a frame 3806 that supports a seal 3808. The mask 3802 can
be connected to a supply conduit (not shown), which can be used to
supply breathing gases to a user. As described above, in some
configurations, the mask 3802 can seal around a mouth of a user and
on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask 3802 can provide
pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth of the
user.
[0268] The headgear 3804 can be coupled to the mask 3802 at one or
more mounting locations or mounting points 3810 by any suitable
coupling, such as a quick-release mechanism, for example.
Preferably, a strap portion 3820 is provided on each side of the
headgear 3804 to connect the mask 3802 to a rear portion of the
headgear 3804. In the illustrated arrangement, the headgear 3804
includes a single strap portion 3820 that is coupled to the mask
3802 at a single, vertically-elongated mounting point 3810 on each
side of the interface assembly 3800. The strap portion 3820 can
pass directly over the user's ear and, in some configurations, is
wide enough to cover most, substantially all or the user's entire
ear. The strap 3820 can extend all the way from one side of the
mask 3802 to the other side and a central portion of the strap 3820
can define a rear strap portion 3850, which can include a vent 3852
to reduce heat build-up under the strap portion 3850. The vent 3852
can be constructed of a mesh or other breathable material and can
extend along a substantial entirety of a length of the rear strap
portion 3850. The vent 3852 can also extend along a substantial
portion of the height of the rear strap portion 3850 such that the
vent 3852 occupies a substantial portion of an overall area of the
rear strap portion 3850, such as at least about 50, 60, 70 or 80%
of an overall area. Preferably, the vent 3852 is of a sufficient
size to significantly reduce heat build-up under the rear strap
portion 3850 relative to a similarly sized strap without a vent. In
some configurations, the vent 3852 is sized to maximize vented area
while not compromising the structure of the strap portion 3850 or
creating pressure points on the user's head.
[0269] The headgear 3804 can include a top strap 3860 that can
extend upwardly from a center of the mask 3802 over top of the
user's head and connect to the rear strap portion 3850. The top
strap 3860 can extend along the user's nose, between the eyes and
can bifurcate into two strap portions 3860a, 3860b to form a
triangulated arrangement with the rear strap portion 3850 and form
a halo portion 3814. The top strap 3860 can apply an
upwardly-directed force to the mask 3802 to assist in creating a
seal against the underside of the user's nose. In some
configurations, a length of the top strap 3860 is adjustable to
allow for adjustment of a position of and/or upward force applied
to the mask 3802. In other respects, features of the interface
assembly 3800 or portions thereof can be the same as or similar to
other interfaces or portions thereof described herein, or can be of
another suitable arrangement.
[0270] FIG. 40 illustrates an interface assembly 4000 that is
arranged and configured in accordance with certain features,
aspects and advantages of the present disclosure. The illustrated
interface assembly 4000 includes an interface 4002 and a headgear
4004. The illustrated interface 4002 is a nasal-oral mask but, as
described herein, other types of interfaces can be used with the
disclosed headgear 4004. The illustrated mask 4002 generally
comprises a frame 4006 that supports a seal 4008. The mask 4002 can
be connected to a supply conduit 4009, which can be used to supply
breathing gases to a user. As described above, in some
configurations, the mask 4002 can seal around a mouth of a user and
on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask 4002 can provide
pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth of the
user.
[0271] The headgear 4004 can be coupled to the mask 4002 at one or
more mounting locations or mounting points 4010 by any suitable
coupling arrangement. In the illustrated arrangement, the headgear
4004 includes a single strap portion 4020 that is coupled to the
mask 4002 at a single, vertically-elongated mounting point 4010 on
each side of the interface assembly 4000. The strap 4020 can extend
all the way from one side of the mask 4002 to the other side.
Preferably, the strap 4020 is bifurcated rearwardly of the mask
4002 to define an upper strap 4020a and a lower strap 4020b that
pass above and below the user's ear, respectively. Central portions
of the upper strap 4020a and the lower strap 4020b can be enlarged
in a width or vertical direction to spread a load applied to the
user's head over a relatively large area for comfort.
[0272] Each side of the mask 4002 can include an elongate slot 4030
through which the strap 4020 can pass. End portions 4040 of the
strap 4020 can fold over to form a loop and can be secured to a
portion of the strap 4020 rearward of the mask 4002 by a suitable
fastener, such as a hook-and-loop fastener, for example. The end
portions 4040 of the strap 4020 can include a finger tab 4032,
which can provide a finger grip area to facilitate assembly and
adjustment of the strap 4020 relative to the mask 4002. The slot
4030 can be generally or substantially straight and, in some
configurations, can be generally or substantially aligned with a
rearward surface of the mask 4002 (e.g., rearward surface of the
frame 4006 and/or seal 4008). An overall size or circumference of
the interface assembly 4000 can be adjusted by altering a length of
the end portions 4040 of the strap 4020 that are pulled through the
slot 4030 to vary a size of the loop. Angular adjustment of the
mask 4002 can be accomplished by moving the end portions 4040 in a
generally vertical direction to alter a vertical orientation of a
forward end or fold 4042 of the end portions 4040 of the strap
4020. That is, the end portion 4040 can be moved or angled upwardly
to pull in the bottom of the mask 4002 relative to the top of the
mask 4002. Conversely, the end portion 4040 can be moved or angled
downwardly to pull in the top of the mask 4002 relative to the
bottom of the mask 4002. Thus, preferably, the straps 4020 increase
in height (in the illustrated orientation or in a width direction
of the strap 4020, itself) in a direction from each of the end
portions 4040 toward the center of the strap 4020 to provide
surface area of the strap 4020 for upward and downward adjustment
of the end portions 4040 of the strap 4020. In other respects,
features of the interface assembly 4000 or portions thereof can be
the same as or similar to other interfaces or portions thereof
described herein, or can be of another suitable arrangement.
[0273] FIGS. 41 and 42 illustrate an interface assembly 4000 that
is similar in many respects to the interface assembly 4000 of FIG.
40. Therefore, the same reference numbers are used to refer to the
same or corresponding components or features. In addition, the
interface assembly 4000 of FIGS. 41 and 42 is described in the
context of the differences relative to the interface assembly 4000
of FIG. 40. Features of the interface assembly 4000 or portions
thereof not specifically described can be assumed to be the same as
or similar to features of the interface assembly 4000 of FIG. 40,
other interfaces or portions thereof described herein, or can be of
another suitable arrangement.
[0274] In the arrangement of FIGS. 41 and 42, the upper strap 4020a
and the lower strap 4020b can be positioned closer to one another
than in the arrangement of FIG. 40. For example, the upper strap
4020a can be positioned lower on the user's head (e.g., at or near
an upper edge of the occipital bone) and can pass just above the
user's ear. The lower strap 4020b can be positioned higher on the
user's head, such as above the user's neck muscled and/or on the
occipital bone. In addition, the upper strap 4020a and the lower
strap 4020b can be connected by one or more vertical connecting
portions 4050. For example, on each side of the interface assembly
4000, a first vertical connecting portion 4050 can be positioned
behind the user's ear and a second vertical connecting portion 4050
can be positioned further rearward of the first vertical connecting
portion 4050. The vertical connecting portions 4050 can secure the
upper strap 4020a and the lower strap 4020b in desired positioned
relative to one another and inhibit or prevent migration of the
straps 4020a, 4020b apart from one another.
[0275] FIG. 43 illustrates an interface assembly 4000 that is
similar in many respects to the interface assemblies 4000 of FIGS.
40-42. Therefore, the same reference numbers are used to refer to
the same or corresponding components or features. In addition, the
interface assembly 4000 of FIG. 43 is described in the context of
the differences relative to the interface assemblies 4000 of FIGS.
40-42. Features of the interface assembly 4000 or portions thereof
not specifically described can be assumed to be the same as or
similar to features of the interface assembly 4000 of FIGS. 40-42,
other interfaces or portions thereof described herein, or can be of
another suitable arrangement.
[0276] The positioning of the upper strap 4020a and the lower strap
4020b of the headgear 4004 of FIG. 43 relative to the user's head
can be similar to the straps in the headgear 4004 of FIG. 40.
However, preferably, one or more connecting straps 4050 are
provided that extend between and connect the upper strap 4020a and
the lower strap 4020b, similar to the headgear 4004 of FIGS. 41 and
42.
[0277] In addition, the strap 4020 can be connected to the mask
4002 in a different manner. For example, the upper strap 4020a and
the lower strap 4020b can be coupled to the mask 4002 at separate
mounting points 4010. In some configurations, the straps 4020a,
4020b can be coupled to the mask 4002 by connectors having some
amount of elasticity. In some configurations, the elasticity is
relatively low. For example, the connectors can be silicone tension
straps 4060. Such silicon tension straps 4060 can provide for
rotational adjustment and tensioning of the mask 4002 against the
user's face. However, other adjusters for the mask 4002 and/or
headgear 4004 could also be provided. In addition, other materials
with properties (e.g., elasticity, flexibility) similar to silicone
could also be used.
[0278] FIGS. 44 and 45 illustrate an interface assembly 3800 that
is similar in many respects to the interface assembly 3800 of FIGS.
38 and 39. Therefore, the same reference numbers are used to refer
to the same or corresponding components or features. In addition,
the interface assembly 3800 of FIGS. 44 and 45 is described in the
context of the differences relative to the interface assembly 3800
of FIGS. 38 and 39. Features of the interface assembly 3800 or
portions thereof not specifically described can be assumed to be
the same as or similar to features of the interface assembly 3800
of FIGS. 38 and 39, other interfaces or portions thereof described
herein, or can be of another suitable arrangement.
[0279] Unlike the strap portion 3820 of the headgear 3804 of FIGS.
38 and 39, the strap portion 3820 of FIGS. 44 and 45 preferably
does not cover the user's ear. Rather, the strap portion 3820
preferably passes below the user's ear. The rear portion 3850 of
the strap 3820 can be smaller in height (or width of the strap
3820, itself) compared to the rear portion 3850 of FIGS. 38 and 30.
In some configurations, the strap 3820 is coupled to the mask 3802
by a rotatable coupling, such as those described in connection with
FIGS. 35 and 36 or elsewhere herein.
[0280] In addition, the mask 3802 can include support portions,
such as paddles 3870 that support the upper portion of the seal
3808. For example, the paddles 3870 can be a portion of or can be
connected to the mask frame 3806 and can be positioned on lateral
sides of the upper portion of the seal 3808 to provide support to
the seal 3808 and maintain the seal 3808 in contact with the user's
nose when the seal 3808 is pressurized. In some configurations, the
paddles 3870 are constructed from silicone, or a similar material.
In addition, FIG. 45 illustrates the supply conduit 3809.
[0281] FIG. 46 illustrates an interface assembly 4600 that is
similar in many respects to the interface assembly 3500 of FIGS. 35
and 36 and the interface assembly 4000 of FIG. 43. The interface
assembly 4600 is described primarily in the context of the
differences relative to the interface assemblies 3500 and 4000.
Features of the interface assembly 3500 or portions thereof not
specifically described can be assumed to be the same as or similar
to features of the interface assemblies 3500 or 4000, other
interfaces or portions thereof described herein, or can be of
another suitable arrangement.
[0282] The interface assembly 4600 utilizes an interface or mask
4602 that is substantially similar to the mask 3502 of FIG. 35 and
a headgear 4604 that is substantially similar to the headgear 4004
of FIG. 43. In particular, the mask 4602 preferably includes a
frame 4606 and a seal 4608. A supply conduit 4609 delivers
breathing gases to a user. As described above, in some
configurations, the mask 4602 can seal around a mouth of a user and
on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask 4602 can provide
pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth of the
user.
[0283] The headgear 4604 can be coupled to the mask 4602 at one or
more mounting locations or mounting points 4610 by any suitable
coupling arrangement. For example, the headgear can comprise a
strap 4620 having an upper strap portion 4620a and a lower strap
portion 4620b coupled to each side of the mask 4602 at separate
mounting points 4610. A connecting strap portion 4650 couples the
upper strap portion 4620a and the lower strap portion 4620b. The
connecting strap portion 4650 can be provided on each side of the
headgear 4604 behind the user's ear.
[0284] One or both of the upper strap 4620a and the lower strap
4620b can be coupled to the mask 4602 by any suitable arrangement.
In some configurations, the straps 4620a, 4620b are coupled to the
mask 4602 by quick-release mechanisms, such as snap-locks or clips
(e.g., hook-and-bar arrangement) 4630. In some configurations, the
straps 4620a, 4620b can be rotatable relative to the clips 4630 to
permit angular adjustment of the straps 4620a, 4620b. The portions
of the mask 4602 that receive the clips 4630 can define one or more
elongate protrusions 4634, surfaces of which extend outwardly
beyond adjacent surfaces of the mask 4602. In some configurations,
a surface between the portions of the mask 4602 that receive the
clips 4630 or straps 4620a, 4620b is recessed such that a pair of
protrusions 4634 is provided. Such an arrangement can provide
tactile indications of the proper locations for engaging the clips
4630 with the mask in addition to providing a unique appearance.
Unless indicated otherwise, features of the interface assembly 4600
or portions thereof can be the same as or similar to other
interfaces or portions thereof described herein, or can be of
another suitable arrangement.
[0285] FIG. 47 illustrates an interface assembly 4000 that is
similar in many respects to the interface assembly 4000 of FIG. 40
and the interface assembly 4000 of FIGS. 41 and 42. Therefore, the
same reference numbers are used to refer to the same or
corresponding components or features. In addition, the interface
assembly 4000 of FIG. 47 is described in the context of the
differences relative to the interface assemblies 4000 of FIGS.
40-42. Features of the interface assembly 4000 or portions thereof
not specifically described can be assumed to be the same as or
similar to features of the interface assemblies 4000 of FIGS.
40-42, other interfaces or portions thereof described herein, or
can be of another suitable arrangement.
[0286] In the arrangement of FIG. 47, the upper strap 4020a and the
lower strap 4020b can be positioned relative to one another in a
manner similar to the arrangement of FIGS. 44 and 42. In addition,
the upper strap 4020a and the lower strap 4020b are similarly
connected by one or more vertical connecting portions 4050. In the
illustrated arrangement, a vertical connecting portion 4050 can be
positioned behind the user's ear on each side of the interface
assembly 4000. A crown strap 4016 can extend over the top of the
user's head from one side of the upper strap 4020a to the other
side of the upper strap 4020a. In some configurations, the crown
strap 4016 can be aligned with the connecting portions 4050.
[0287] The headgear 4004 can be constructed as a composite
structure of a relatively rigid material and a relatively less
rigid material. For example, a flexible material, such as a textile
material, can be utilized to construct a base 4060 of the headgear.
A semi-rigid or rigid material can be applied to the base 4060 to
form a support structure 4062. One example of a semi-rigid material
is polypropylene sheet material having a thickness of about 0.5
millimeters, for example. The support structure 4062 can be bonded
to an outer surface of the base 4060, such as with an adhesive, RF
welding, ultrasonic welding, thermoforming, stitching, chemical
bonding, mechanical bonding or any other suitable method. In the
illustrated arrangement, the base 4060 has a greater width than the
support structure 4062. The support structure 4062 can be provided
on some portions or a substantial entirety of the headgear 4004.
For example, preferably, the support structure 4062 extends along
at least a substantial length of the upper strap 4020a, lower strap
4020b, the crown strap 4016 and the connecting straps 4050. In some
configurations, the support structure can be constructed from a
single piece of material.
[0288] FIG. 48 illustrates a low-profile adjustment arrangement
4800 that can be used to adjust a length of a headgear strap, such
as any of the straps of the headgear 4004 of FIG. 47. In one
arrangement, the low-profile adjustment arrangement 4800 is
utilized in the crown strap 4016 of the headgear 4004 of FIG. 47.
In the illustrated arrangement, the crown strap 4016 is split along
its length into a first crown strap portion 4016a and a second
crown strap portion 4016b. The first crown strap portion 4016a
comprises a first component 4802 of a fastener, such as a
hook-and-loop fastener, and the second crown strap portion 4016b
comprises a second component 4804 of the fastener. The first
component 4802 can be selectively engaged at a desired position
with the second component 4804 to adjust a length of the crown
strap 4016.
[0289] In some configurations, the first component 4802 is carried
by or secured to one of the base 4060 and the support structure
4062 of the crown strap 4016 and the second component 4804 is
carried by or secured to the other of the base 4060 and the support
structure 4062 of the crown strap 4016. Such an arrangement takes
advantage of the dual layer construction of the crown strap 4016 to
provide adjustment without doubling the thickness of the crown
strap 4016. In some configurations, an end of at least one of the
first crown strap portion 4016a and the second crown strap portion
4016b comprises a loop 4810 that surrounds the other of the first
crown strap portion 4016a and the second crown strap portion 4016b
to facilitate maintaining axial alignment of the first crown strap
portion 4016a and the second crown strap portion 4016b.
[0290] FIG. 49 illustrates an interface assembly 4900 that is
arranged and configured in accordance with certain features,
aspects and advantages of the present disclosure. The illustrated
interface assembly 4900 includes an interface 4902 and a headgear
4904. The illustrated interface 4902 is a nasal-oral mask but, as
described herein, other types of interfaces can be used with the
disclosed headgear 4904. The illustrated mask 4902 generally
comprises a frame 4906 that supports a seal 4908. The mask 4902 can
be connected to a supply conduit 4909, which can be used to supply
breathing gases to a user. As described above, in some
configurations, the mask 4902 can seal around a mouth of a user and
on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask 4902 can provide
pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth of the user.
The mask frame 4906 can include or carry support structures 4970
for providing lateral support to an upper portion of the mask seal
4908. The support structures 4970 can be the same as or similar to
the paddles 3870 of FIGS. 44 and 45.
[0291] The headgear 4904 can be coupled to the mask 4902 at one or
more mounting locations or mounting points 4910. In some
configurations, the mask 4902 can be rotatably coupled to the
headgear 4904 by a rotational coupling 4944, which can be
substantially similar to the rotational couplings of FIG. 29, 35 or
36, for example. In addition, the headgear 4904 can include a lower
strap or lower arm 4918 on each side of the interface assembly 4900
that pass below the user's ears and can omit upper straps. Thus, in
some configurations, the lower arms 4918 are the only connections
between the mask 4902 and the headgear 4904. The headgear 4904 can
include a rear portion 4914, which can be a rear halo portion or
can be of a similar arrangement. In some configurations, the rear
portion 4914 is not annular in shape. The rear portion 4914 can
comprise a cradle structure that extends in a vertical direction
along the back of the user's head and, in some configurations, from
a location at or near a lower end of the user's head to a location
at or near a crown of the user's head. The cradle structure of the
rear portion 4914 can be curved in a vertical and/or horizontal
direction to generally conform to the shape of the user's head.
[0292] The lower arm 4918 can comprise an adjustment arrangement
4960 that permits a distance between the mask 4902 and the rear
portion 4914 of the headgear 4904 to be adjusted. In the
illustrated interface 4900, the adjustment arrangement 4960
comprises a sliding arrangement. In particular, the adjustment
arrangement 4960 comprises a first arm portion 4962 that is fixed
for movement with the rear portion 4914 in at least a fore-aft
direction and a second arm portion 4964 that is fixed for movement
with the mask 4902 in at least a fore-aft direction. In some
configurations, the second arm portion 4964 can be integral or
unitary with a portion of the mask 4902 (e.g., the mask frame
4906).
[0293] The first arm portion 4962 and the second arm portion 4964
are slidably or telescopically engaged with one another, for
example by one or more loops 4966 coupled to one of the first arm
portion 4962 and the second arm portion 4964, which surround the
other of the first arm portion 4962 and the second arm portion
4964. Thus, movement of the second arm portion 4964 relative to the
first arm portion 4962 can adjust a retention force applied to the
mask 4902. Preferably, the adjustment arrangement 4960 secures the
arm portions 4962, 4964 and, thus, the mask 4902 and headgear 4904
in a desired position once adjusted. For example, the loops 4966
can frictionally engage the arm portion 4962 or 4964. In other
configurations, a lock arrangement can be provided to secure the
arm portions 4962 or 4964 in a desired position. Other suitable
arrangements could also be used. In other respects, features of the
interface assembly 4900 or portions thereof can be the same as or
similar to other interfaces or portions thereof described herein,
or can be of another suitable arrangement.
[0294] FIG. 50 illustrates an interface assembly 5000 that is
arranged and configured in accordance with certain features,
aspects and advantages of the present disclosure. Unless indicated
otherwise, features of the interface assembly 5000 or portions
thereof can be the same as or similar to other interfaces or
portions thereof described herein, or can be of another suitable
arrangement. The illustrated interface assembly 5000 includes an
interface 5002 and a headgear 5004. The illustrated interface 5002
is a nasal-oral mask but, as described herein, other types of
interfaces can be used with the disclosed headgear 5004. The
illustrated mask 5002 generally comprises a frame 5006 that
supports a seal 5008. The mask 5002 can be connected to a supply
conduit (not shown), which can be used to supply breathing gases to
a user.
[0295] As described above, in some configurations, the mask 5002
can seal around a mouth of a user and on an underside of a nose of
the user. Such a mask 5002 can provide pressurized air flow to both
the nose and the mouth of the user. The mask 5002 can include
supports or paddles 5070 that extend upwardly from the mask frame
5006 along the sides of the nose portion of the seal 5008 to
provide lateral support to the nose portions of the mask seal 5008.
The supports 5070 can be permanently or removably coupled to the
mask 5002. In the illustrated configuration, the supports 5070 are
removably coupled to the mask frame 5006 and can be provided in
several sizes or shapes to allow a user to fine tune the amount of
support provided to the sides of the nose portion of the seal
5008.
[0296] The headgear 5004 can be coupled to the mask 5002 at one or
more mounting locations or mounting points 5010. Preferably, a
lower strap portion 5018 and an upper strap portion 5020 are
provided on each side of the headgear 5004 to connect the mask 5002
to a rear portion of the headgear 5004. In the illustrated
arrangement, the lower strap 5018 and the upper strap 5020 on at
least one side of the mask 5002 are coupled to the mask 5002 by a
single clip 5030, which can be the same as or similar to the
arrangement described in connection with FIGS. 35 and 36. In some
configurations, a clip 5030 is provided on only one side of the
mask 5002. The straps 5018, 5020 can be permanently coupled to the
mask 5002 on the other side or coupled in a manner that is not as
convenient to connect and remove as the clip 5030 (e.g., coupled
via an adjustment mechanism).
[0297] The clip 5030 and the mask frame 5006 can be configured in a
complementary manner to facilitate location of the proper position
of the clip 5030 for engagement with the mask 5002 and/or to
inhibit undesired disengagement of the clip 5030 from the mask
5002. For example, the mask frame 5006 can comprise one or more
edges 5032 that cooperate to define a recess for receiving the clip
5030. In the illustrated arrangement, the edges 5032 define a
rearwardly-opening recess and the clip 5030 passes through the
rearward opening 5034. In some configurations, the clip 5030 is
configured to occupy an entirety or a substantial entirety of the
recess defined by the edges 5032. Thus, an outwardly-facing surface
5036 of the clip 5030 can be flush with an outwardly-facing surface
5038 of adjacent portions of the mask frame 5006, at least at
locations in which the clip 5030 and the mask frame 5006 meet. With
such an arrangement, the edges 5032 of the recess inhibit the clip
5030 from moving in a direction (e.g., forwardly) that would permit
undesired or unintentional disengagement of the clip 5030 from the
mask 5002. However, a user could intentionally move the clip 5030,
for example, in a lateral direction away from the mask frame 5006
and out of engagement with the mask 5002.
[0298] As illustrated by the arrows in FIG. 50, the clip 5030 can
be brought adjacent to the mask frame 5002 and, preferably, at
least slightly forward of the recess defined by the edges 5032. The
edges 5032 can provide tactile feedback to the user to facilitate
identification of the proper location for the clip 5030. The clip
5030 can be moved or allowed to move rearwardly and into engagement
with the recess defined by the edges 5032. In some configurations,
a forward end of the clip 5030 can be first engaged with the recess
and then a rear portion of the clip 5030 can be moved inwardly into
engagement with the recess. In some such configurations, a rear
portion 5040 of the clip 5030 can abut against a rear edge 5042 of
the mask frame 5006 to inhibit undesired forward movement and/or
undesired or unintentional disengagement of the clip 5030 from the
mask frame 5006.
[0299] In some configurations, the clip 5030 defines one or more
finger access or finger grip portions 5050, which can provide a
convenient location for the user to grasp the clip 5030. In some
configurations, the finger grip portion 5050 provides tactile
feedback to the user to facilitate non-visual location of the clip
5030. In the illustrated arrangement, a finger grip portion 5050 is
provided between and at a forward end of a space 5052 defined by
rearward protruding portions 5054 of the clip 5030. Finger grip
portions 5050 are also provided on upper and lower edges of the
clip 5030. Any combination or all of the illustrated locations can
be used. The protruding portions 5054 can be generally aligned with
a length or axial direction of the straps 5018, 5020.
[0300] FIGS. 51-57 illustrate interface assemblies 5000 that are
similar in many respects to the interface assembly 5000 of FIG. 50.
Therefore, the same reference numbers are used to refer to the same
or corresponding components or features. In addition, the interface
assemblies 5000 of FIG. 51-57 are described in the context of the
differences relative to the interface assembly 5000 of FIG. 50
and/or the differences relative to each other. Features of the
interface assemblies 5000 or portions thereof not specifically
described can be assumed to be the same as or similar to features
of the interface assembly 5000 of FIG. 50, other interfaces or
portions thereof described herein, or can be of another suitable
arrangement.
[0301] The interface assembly 5000 of FIG. 51 places the finger
grip portion 5050 on a forward portion of the clip 5030. In
particular, the finger grip portion 5050 is defined by a raised or
outwardly offset portion on a forward edge of the clip 5030. The
finger grip portion 5050 can be generally centered in a vertical
direction of the clip 5030. The mask frame 5006 can define a
recessed portion 5060 that is positioned adjacent the finger grip
portion 5050 and facilitates the user accessing the inward-facing
surface of the finger grip portion 5050. In the interface assembly
5000 of FIG. 52, the finger grip portion 5050 is not raised
relative to a surrounding portion of the clip 5030. Instead, the
recessed portion 5060 of the mask frame 5006 can be configured
(e.g., enlarged relative to the portion 5060 of FIG. 51) to
facilitate access to the finger grip portion 5050.
[0302] The interface assembly 5000 of FIG. 53 is similar to FIG. 52
in that the finger grip portion 5050 is not raised or outwardly
offset relative to surrounding portions of the clip 5030. However,
the recessed portion 5060 of the mask frame 5006 can extend along a
substantial portion or a substantial entirety of a front edge of
the clip 5030. In some configurations, the recessed portion 5060
has a length that is a substantial portion of the overall height of
the mask frame 5006, such as at least about one-half or at least
about two-thirds of a height of the mask frame 5006.
[0303] The interface assembly 5000 of FIG. 54 incorporates a lock
arrangement 5070 to secure the clip 5030 to the mask frame 5006.
The lock arrangement 5070 can be in addition to or in alternative
to other engagement features of the clip 5030 (e.g., hook-and-bar
arrangement). The lock arrangement 5070 can comprise a snap-lock
feature, such as a resilient locking clip 5072, for example and
without limitation. The resilient locking clip 5072 can be placed
on either the mask frame 5006 or the clip 5030 and can be located
in a manner similar to the finger grip portions 5050 or recessed
portions 5060 described herein. When placed on the clip 5030, the
resilient locking clip 5072 can also function as a finger grip
portion 5050.
[0304] The interface assembly 5000 of FIGS. 55-56 is similar to the
assemblies 5000 of FIGS. 52 and 53. In particular, the finger grip
portion 5050 of the clip 5030 of FIGS. 55-56 is not raised or
outwardly offset relative to adjacent portions of the clip 5030 and
the recessed portion 5060 of the mask frame 5006 is configured to
facilitate access to the finger grip portion 5050. The recessed
portion 5060 is a relatively discrete structure with a relatively
sharp transition from surrounding surfaces of the clip 5030 similar
to the portion 5060 of FIG. 52, but extends along a greater
vertical distance similar to the portion 5060 of FIG. 53.
[0305] FIG. 56 illustrates an example of interference or
interlocking features 5080 of the mask frame 5006 and the clip
5030. In the illustrated arrangement, the mask frame 5006 comprises
at least one opening and, preferably, a pair of openings 5082a,
5082b. The forward opening 5082a is completely surrounded by the
mask frame 5006, while the rear opening 5082b is only partially
surrounded by the mask frame 5006. The clip 5030 comprises at least
one engagement member or engagement block and, preferably, a pair
of engagement blocks 5084a, 5084b configured to engage a respective
one of the openings 5082a, 5082b. The openings 5082a, 5082b and
engagement blocks 5084a, 5084b are axially-spaced (e.g., generally
aligned with a direction of a force vector acting on the clip 5030)
to inhibit rotation of the clip 5030 relative to the mask frame
5006. In the illustrated arrangement, the openings 5082a, 5082b and
engagement blocks 5084a, 5084b are aligned in a vertical direction;
however, the openings 5082a, 5082b and engagement blocks 5084a,
5084b could be offset in the vertical direction. In some
configurations, the clip 5030 defines a recess 5086 that is shaped
complementary to and receives an overlapping portion of the mask
frame 5006 when the clip 5030 is engaged with the mask frame
5006.
[0306] When engaged with the mask frame 5006, the clip 5030 exerts
a generally rearward force on the mask frame 5006 via engagement of
the openings 5082a, 5082b and engagement blocks 5084a, 5084b. As a
result of the laterally-curved shape of the mask frame 5006 and/or
the complete perimeter engagement of the engagement block 5084a
with the surfaces of the mask frame 5006 defining the opening
5082a, the force acting on the clip 5030 (which can be generated by
the headgear) tends to pull the engagement block 5084b into
engagement with the opening 5082b thereby enhancing engagement of
the clip 5030 with the mask frame 5006.
[0307] FIG. 57 illustrates another example of an interlocking
feature 5080 between a mask frame 5006 and a clip 5030. The
illustrated arrangement comprises a hook-and-bar type interaction
between the clip 5030 and the frame 5006. Preferably, the clip 5030
includes a hook 5090 that engages an engagement surface or bar 5092
of the mask frame 5006. In some configurations, this arrangement
could be reversed. The mask frame 5006 includes an opening 5094
that accommodates the hook 5090 of the clip 5030 when the clip 5030
is engaged with the mask 5002. In some configurations, a surface
that defines a portion of the opening 5094 also defines the bar
5092. The bar 5092 can be any structure or portion of a structure
configured to interact with the hook 5090 and retain the clip 5030
to the mask 5002. To couple the clip 5030 to the mask 5002, a
portion of the hook 5090 can be passed through the opening 5094 to
engage the hook 5090 with the bar 5092 and the body of the clip
5030 can be rotated into a resting position adjacent or against the
mask 5002 (e.g., mask frame 5006). To remove the clip 5030, this
process can be reversed.
[0308] FIGS. 50-57 (among others herein) disclose interface
assemblies 5000 that permit a circumferential loop of the interface
assembly 5000 to be opened to facilitate application and removal of
the interface assembly 5000. In such configurations, the headgear
5004 can be completely separated from the mask 5002 at at least one
location to define an open loop. While such an open loop
configuration can facilitate application or removal of the
interface assembly 5000, it has been discovered by the present
inventors that it can sometimes be difficult or annoying for a user
to locate the loose clip 5030 or other portion of the headgear 5004
for attachment to the mask 5002. Even if only one clip 5030 is
disengaged from the mask 5002, depending on the configuration of
the headgear 5004, the loose clip 5030 could move a significant
distance from the mask 5002, such as fall behind the head of the
user, for example. If clips 5030 on both sides of the mask 5002 are
disengaged, complete separation of the headgear 5004 from the mask
5002 can occur. Accordingly, in some applications or uses, it can
be desirable to tether the clip 5030 to the mask 5002 to facilitate
location of the clip 5030, especially when visual location is
difficult or not possible. The interface assemblies 5800 of FIGS.
58-61 are closed loop configurations, which move between an
expanded orientation, which facilitates application or removal of
the interface assembly 5800, and a contracted orientation.
Preferably, the interface assemblies 5800 are elasticated closed
loop configurations, in which an elasticated tethering arrangement
maintains a closed loop, but permits expansion or enlargement of
the circumference of the interface assembly 5800 to facilitate
application or removal.
[0309] The interface assemblies 5800 of FIGS. 58-61 generally
include an interface 5802 and a headgear 5804. The illustrated
interface 5802 is a nasal-oral mask but, as described herein, other
types of interfaces can be used with the disclosed headgear 5804.
The illustrated mask 5802 generally comprises a frame 5806 that
supports a seal 5808. The mask 5802 can be connected to a supply
conduit (not shown), which can be used to supply breathing gases to
a user. As described above, in some configurations, the mask 5802
can seal around a mouth of a user and on an underside of a nose of
the user. Such a mask 5802 can provide pressurized air flow to both
the nose and the mouth of the user.
[0310] The headgear 5804 can be coupled to the mask 5802 at one or
more mounting locations or mounting points by any suitable
arrangement, including the clips 5830 that are the same as or
similar to the clips 5030 of FIGS. 50-57, for example and without
limitation. In some configurations, a lower strap 5818 and an upper
strap 5820 are provided on each side of the headgear 5804 to
connect the mask 5802 to a rear portion of the headgear 5804.
Unless indicated otherwise, features of the interface assembly 5800
or portions thereof can be the same as or similar to other
interfaces or portions thereof described herein, or can be of
another suitable arrangement.
[0311] The interface assembly 5800 of FIG. 58 includes an
elasticated tether 5840 that couples the clip 5830 to the mask
5802. The illustrated elastic tether 5840 is a cable or cord-like
member that is coupled between the clip 5830 and the mask 5802 in a
triangulated manner. In particular, a center portion of the elastic
tether 5840 is coupled to the mask 5802 and end portions of the
elastic tether 5840 are coupled to the clip 5830. Preferably, the
elastic tether 5840 is configured to not only retain the clip 5830
near the mask 5802 when the clip 5830 is disengaged from the mask
5802, but also tends to locate the clip 5830 properly relative to
the mask 5802. For example, a tension on the upper and lower or the
two end portions of the elastic tether 5840 can be generally even
when the clip 5830 is properly located relative to the mask 5802.
Thus, the elastic tether 5840 tends to pull the clip 5830 into the
proper position for engagement with the mask 5802.
[0312] The interface assembly 5800 of FIG. 59 includes an
elasticated tether 5840 in the form of a wide elastic strap. The
elastic strap 5840 can extend from one side of the mask 5802 to the
other. Each end of the elastic strap 5840 can connect to a clip
5830. An intermediate portion of the elastic strap 5840 can be
secured to the mask 5802. For example, the mask frame 5802 can
comprise a loop portion 5842 that forms a passage through which the
elastic strap 5840 can pass. In some configurations, the elastic
strap 5840 is loosely received in the passage and is movable
relative to the mask 5802. The clips 5830 can prevent the elastic
strap 5840 from being disengaged from the mask 5802.
[0313] In the interface assemblies 5800 of FIGS. 58 and 59, the
elastic tethers 5840 are exposed. In some applications or uses, it
may be desirable for the elastic tether 5840 to be covered or
concealed, at least when the clip 5830 is engaged with the mask
5802. The interface assembly 5800 of FIGS. 60 and 61 conceals the
elastic tether 5840 when the clip 5830 is engaged with the mask
5802. In the illustrated configuration, the elastic tether 5840
includes at least one and preferably a pair of elastic elements.
The elastic elements can be in the form of elastic straps 5840,
which can be spaced vertically from one another and extend
generally in a fore-aft direction. In some configurations, the
elastic straps 5840 can be generally or substantially aligned with
a respective one of the lower strap 5818 and the upper strap 5820
of the headgear 5804.
[0314] The clip 5830 can capture the elastic straps 5840 between
the clip 5830 and the mask frame 5806 when the clip 5830 is engaged
with the mask 5802. In the illustrated arrangement, a first end of
each elastic strap 5840 is secured to a rearward end portion of the
mask frame 5806 and a second end of each elastic strap 5840 is
secured to a forward end of the clip 5830. Such an arrangement
permits the elastic straps 5840 to lay relatively flat between the
mask frame 5806 and the clip 5830 and also maximizes the growth in
the circumference of the interface assembly 5800 permitted by the
elastic straps 5840. The mask frame 5806 and/or the clip 5830 can
include recesses 5844 that receive and at least partially
accommodate a thickness of the elastic straps 5840 when the clip
5830 is engaged with the mask 5802.
[0315] As described above, the elastic tethers 5840 can be
configured to help guide the clip 5830 to a proper location for
engagement with the mask 5802. However, in the configuration of
FIGS. 60 and 61, the elastic straps 5840 may not pull the clip 5830
all the way to the proper position for engagement with the mask
5802. That is, the clip 5830 can be moved away from the engagement
location by a distance generally equivalent to an un-stretched
length of the elastic straps 5840. In such a configuration, or if
desirable in any other configuration, the interface assembly 5800
can include additional features to assist in location of the clip
5830 relative to the mask 5802. For example, one or more magnets
5846 can be provided on the mask 5802, the clip 5830 or both to
facilitate location of the clip 5830 relative to the mask 5802. A
single magnet arrangement can be used, but the other component
typically will have a magnetically attractive material. In the
illustrated arrangement, a magnet 5846 is provided at the forward
ends of the recesses 5844 on the mask 5802 and clip 5830 (magnets
5846 not shown on the clip 5830). In addition, FIG. 61 illustrates
an opening 5848, which can be engaged by a suitable structure of
the clip 5830, such as a hook or block (not shown).
[0316] FIGS. 62-64 illustrates an interface assembly 6200 that is
of an elongating closed loop configuration, which permits the
interface assembly 6200 to move between an expanded orientation and
a contracted orientation. The interface assembly 6200 is similar to
the interface assemblies 5800 of FIGS. 58-61 in that the
circumference can be enlarged to facilitate application or removal;
however, preferably, the interface assembly 6200 provides the
ability to enlarge the circumference via a non-elasticated folding
clasp 6240 in contrast to the elasticated arrangements of FIGS.
58-61.
[0317] The illustrated interface assembly 6200 includes an
interface 6202 and a headgear 6204. The illustrated interface 6202
is a nasal-oral mask but, as described herein, other types of
interfaces can be used with the disclosed headgear 6204. The
illustrated mask 6202 generally comprises a frame 6206 that
supports a seal 6208. The mask 6202 can be connected to a supply
conduit 6209, which can be used to supply breathing gases to a
user. As described above, in some configurations, the mask 6202 can
seal around a mouth of a user and on an underside of a nose of the
user. Such a mask 6202 can provide pressurized air flow to both the
nose and the mouth of the user.
[0318] The headgear 6204 can be coupled to the mask 6202 at one or
more mounting locations or mounting points 6210. Preferably, a
lower strap portion 6218 and an upper strap portion 6220 are
provided on one or both sides of the headgear 6204 to connect the
mask 6202 to a rear portion of the headgear 6204. In some
configurations, the headgear 6204 can provide for adjustment in
addition to the folding clasp 6240 or other elongation arrangement.
With such an arrangement, the headgear 6204 can be adjusted to an
appropriate or desired adjustment position separately from the
action of the folding clasp 6240, such that the folding clasp 6204
can be used solely to facilitate application and, once properly
adjusted, the headgear 6204 should not require readjustment with
each application of the interface assembly 6200. Any suitable
adjustment mechanism for the headgear 6204 can be provided, such as
folding over the straps 6218, 6220 on one or both sides of the
interface assembly 6200 after engagement with the mask 6202 to
create adjustment loops 6222 that can be secured by any suitable
fastener, such as a hook-and-loop fastener, for example.
[0319] The folding clasp 6240 can include multiple sections or
segments that are foldable relative to one another between a
contracted (e.g., stacked or folded) orientation and an expanded
(e.g., unfolded) orientation. In the illustrated arrangement, a
first segment 6242 is defined or carried by the mask 6202, such as
by the mask frame 6206. A second segment 6244 is defined by or
carried by a member (e.g., a clip) coupled to the headgear 6204
(e.g., one or both of the straps 6218, 6220). In some
configurations, an third or intermediate segment 6246 is pivotally
connected to the first segment 6242 at a first end and to the
second segment 6244 at a second end. The pivot axes between the
segments 6242, 6244, 6246 preferably are aligned with one another
and oriented perpendicular to a circumferential direction of the
headgear 6204/interface assembly 6200. Such an arrangement
maintains the segments 6242, 6244, 6246 in the proper plane
relative to one another and, in the illustrated arrangement,
maintains the forward portion of the headgear 6204 in horizontal
alignment with the mask 6202 to facilitate non-visual location of
the second segment 6244 of the folding clasp 6240 in the unfolded
orientation.
[0320] As illustrated in FIGS. 63 and 64, respectively, in the
contracted orientation the segments 6242, 6244, 6246 are stacked
relative to one another to have an increased overall thickness and
reduced length and in the expanded orientation the segments 6242,
6244, 6246 are unstacked and positioned end-to-end to reduce the
overall thickness and increase the length. Folding clasps 6240 can
be provided on one or both sides of the interface assembly 6200.
Preferably, when contracted or folded, the folding clasp 6240 is
located on the mask 6202 or forward of a rearward edge of the mask
6202. Such an arrangement avoids contact between the folding clasp
6240 and the user for increased comfort. In some configurations,
the a locking mechanism (e.g., snap-fit arrangement) can be
provided to lock or retain the folding clasp 6240 in the closed
position or contracted orientation and inhibit or prevent
unintentional opening of the folding clasp 6240. A finger grip
portion 6250 and corresponding recessed portion 6260 can be
provided on the clip 6230 and mask frame 6206, respectively, to
facilitate opening of the folding clasp 6240. Unless indicated
otherwise, features of the interface assembly 6200 or portions
thereof can be the same as or similar to other interfaces or
portions thereof described herein, or can be of another suitable
arrangement.
[0321] FIGS. 65-68 illustrate an interface assembly 6200 that is
similar in many respects to the interface assembly 6200 of FIGS.
62-64. Therefore, the same reference numbers are used to refer to
the same or corresponding components or features. In addition, the
interface assembly 6200 of FIGS. 65-68 is described in the context
of the differences relative to the interface assembly 6200 of FIGS.
62-64. Features of the interface assembly 6200 or portions thereof
not specifically described can be assumed to be the same as or
similar to features of the interface assembly 6200 of FIGS. 62-64,
other interfaces or portions thereof described herein, or can be of
another suitable arrangement.
[0322] The folding clasp 6240 of FIGS. 65-68 is more space
efficient in at least some respects compared to the folding clasp
6240 of FIGS. 62-64. In particular, the folding clasp 6240 of FIGS.
65-68 has an overall thickness that is substantially equal to a
thickness of two of the segments 6242, 6244, 6246 in a closed or
folded configuration, as illustrated in FIG. 67. Any one or all of
the segments 6242, 6244, 6246 can define a height that is less than
a height of the second segment 6244. In some configurations, the
height of the first segment 6242 can be substantially equal to or
less than a distance between the lower strap 6218 and the upper
strap 6220 at a location where the straps 6218, 6220 meet the mask
6202. The height of the second segment 6244 can be substantially
equal to or greater than a distance between a lower edge of the
lower strap 6218 and an upper edge of the upper strap 6220 at a
location where the straps 6218, 6220 meet the mask 6202. The second
segment 6244 can have a generally U-shaped profile with a base 6270
and a pair of arms 6272. The arms 6272 can define a space 6270
therebetween, which can have a distance between the arms 6272 that
is at least as great as a height of the first segment 6242. The
intermediate segment 6246 can be connected at one end to a rearward
end of the first segment 6242 and at a second end to a base 6270 of
the second segment 6244. The intermediate segment 6246 can be
received within the space 6270 and can overlap at least a portion
of the first segment 6242 in a folded orientation of the folding
clasp 6240.
[0323] The folding clasp 6240 can comprise a locking mechanism,
such as a resilient latch 6280, which engages a surface surrounding
an opening 6282 to secure the folding clasp 6240 in the closed
position or folded orientation. In the illustrated arrangement, the
opening is defined by the mask frame 6206 or first segment 6242 and
the latch 6280 is carried by the second segment 6244.
[0324] Rearward or free ends of the arms 6272 of the U-shaped
second segment 6244 can connect to the straps 6218, 6220 of the
headgear 6204. The straps 6218, 6220 can be adjustable relative to
the mask 6202 and/or folding clasp 6240. For example, the straps
6218, 6220 can be folded to define adjustment loops 6222. The
adjustment loops 6222 can be secured by a locking mechanism, such
as a locking lever 6284. The locking lever 6284 can include an
engagement portion 6286 that engages the loops 6222 of the strap
6218, 6220 to selectively secure the strap 6218, 6220 in place.
[0325] FIGS. 69-71 illustrates an interface assembly 6900 that is
arranged and configured in accordance with certain features,
aspects and advantages of the present disclosure. The illustrated
interface assembly 6900 includes an alternative arrangement for
providing adjustability and/or closed-loop elongation
functionality. In particular, the interface assembly 6900
incorporates one or more sliding buckle arrangements 6940 that
permits adjustment of a circumference of the interface assembly
6900. Sliding buckle arrangements 6940 can be provided on one or
both sides of the interface assembly 6900.
[0326] Similar to other interface assemblies disclosed herein, the
interface assembly 6900 includes an interface 6902 and a headgear
6904. The illustrated interface 6902 is a nasal-oral mask but, as
described herein, other types of interfaces can be used with the
disclosed headgear 6904. The illustrated mask 6902 generally
comprises a frame 6906 that supports a seal 6908. The mask 6902 can
be connected to a supply conduit 6909, which can be used to supply
breathing gases to a user. As described above, in some
configurations, the mask 6902 can seal around a mouth of a user and
on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask 6902 can provide
pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth of the
user.
[0327] The headgear 6904 can be coupled to the mask 6902 at one or
more mounting locations or mounting points 6910 by any suitable
arrangement, such as any of those disclosed herein. Preferably, a
lower strap portion 6918 and an upper strap portion 6920 are
provided on each side of the headgear 6904 to connect the mask 6902
to a rear portion of the headgear 6904. In the illustrated
configuration, a sliding buckle arrangement 6940 is provided within
each of the lower strap 6918 and the upper strap 6920 to permit
length adjustment of the straps 6918, 6920. Sliding buckle
arrangements 6940 can be provided on one or both sides of the
headgear 6904. FIGS. 70 and 71 illustrate a sliding buckle
arrangement 6940 within one of the straps 6918, 6920; however,
other sliding buckle arrangements 6940 can be of the same or a
similar construction.
[0328] The illustrated sliding buckle arrangement 6940 includes a
buckle 6942 having multiple posts 6944, which create a tortuous
path for the strap 6918, 6920. The strap 6918, 6920 can be engaged
(directly or indirectly) with the mask 6902 and folded over onto
itself to create an adjustment loop 6946. An end of the adjustment
loop 6946 is coupled to the buckle 6942 such that movement of the
buckle 6942 along the strap 6918, 6920 varies the size of the
adjustment loop 6946, or the length of the overlap of the strap
6918, 6920, to adjust an effective length of the strap 6918, 6920.
The buckle 6942 can be moved in either direction along the strap
6918, 6920 to permit lengthening or shortening of the strap 6918,
6920.
[0329] The buckle 6942 can include a finger grip tab or pull tab
6950 to facilitate movement of the buckle 6942. The pull tab 6950
can include a coupler 6952 to allow the pull tab 6950 to be secured
to the buckle 6942 and/or strap 6918, 6920 when not in use. The
illustrated coupler 6952 is a magnetic coupler; however, other
suitable couplers could be used, including snaps, clips or
hook-and-loop fastener, for example and without limitation. The
pull tab 6950 can be generally centrally-located along a length of
the buckle 6942, such as rotatably supported by a post 6954. FIG.
72 illustrates a sliding pull tab 6950 in which the post 6954 is
slidably supported within a slot 6956, which permits the pull tab
6950 and post 6954 to move toward an end of the buckle 6942 in the
direction of travel or intended travel of the buckle 6942.
[0330] The sliding buckle arrangement 6940 can be utilized for
closed-loop elongation or can be used for headgear 6904 adjustment
and other opening arrangements can be provided, such as a clip 6930
that is removable from the mask 6902. The clip 6930 can be
completely separable from the mask 6902 (i.e., open loop) or can be
tethered to the mask 6902 (i.e., closed loop). Unless indicated
otherwise, features of the interface assembly 6900 or portions
thereof can be the same as or similar to other interfaces or
portions thereof described herein, or can be of another suitable
arrangement.
[0331] The elongating closed-loop arrangements described herein
(such as in FIGS. 58-72, for example) preferably provide sufficient
elongation in an open state to permit removal and/or application of
the associated interface assembly. As described, elongating
arrangements can be provided on one or both sides of the interface
assembly. If provided on only one side, preferably, the single
elongating arrangement provides sufficient elongation in an open
state to permit removal and/or application of the associated
interface assembly. If provided on both sides, each elongating
arrangement can provide sufficient elongation in an open state to
permit removal and/or application of the associated interface
assembly so that a user can elect to use one side or the other. In
some configurations, however, each elongating arrangement can
provide a portion of the total elongation, which preferably is
sufficient to permit removal and/or application of the associated
interface assembly; however, the elongation of either one of the
arrangements may not be sufficient on its own to permit removal
and/or application of the associated interface assembly. In some
configurations, the total elongation between a closed state and an
open state is at least 100 millimeters. In elastic configurations,
the elongation with the elastic element(s) in an unstretched state
can be less than 100 millimeters, but can increase to at least 100
millimeters upon stretching of the elastic element(s). For example,
in some configurations, the initial elongation can be about 30
millimeters with the elastic element(s) unstretched and the elastic
element(s) can stretch to provide at least 100 millimeters of total
elongation. In some configurations, the initial elongation (without
stretching) can be about one-third to about one-half of the total
elongation (with stretching).
[0332] FIGS. 73 and 74 illustrate a contoured headgear arrangement
7300 in component parts (FIG. 73) and as assembled (FIG. 74). Many
of the headgear assemblies disclosed herein can be constructed in
whole or in part of a flexible material, such as a fabric or
textile material, for example. Such flexible materials often are in
the form of a flat sheet, which can result in a semi-cylindrical
shape or curvature about only one axis (a vertical axis) when
formed into a headgear assembly. In some configurations, the
disclosed headgear arrangements, including but not limited to the
headgear arrangement 7300, are curved about at least two axes (a
vertical axis and one or more horizontal axes). Such an arrangement
allows the headgear arrangement 7300 to better conform to the
user's head shape and, preferably, spread loads relatively evenly
within an area of the headgear arrangement 7300 to reduce pressure
points, such as line loads along the edges, for example. Such
contoured headgear arrangements 7300 can also tend to hold their
shape when not fitted to a user, such as resisting gravitational
forces and tangling, for example. Such partially or fully
self-supporting constructions can make the headgear arrangements
7300 and associated interface assemblies easier to fit to a
user.
[0333] In the illustrated arrangement, two or more components 7302
are assembled together by a suitable process (e.g., sewing,
bonding, welding, etc.) to form a portion or an entirety of a
headgear arrangement 7300. In some configurations, the components
7302 are in the form of flat patterns of textile material. The
shape of the patterns 7302 can be adjusted to create desired
tension or compression in the material when the components 7302 are
assembled. By adjusting the outline shape of the flat pattern 7302,
the assembled headgear arrangement 7300 can be made to fit more
ergonomically to the user's head shape. Such an arrangement can
spread the loading more evenly over the user's head.
[0334] In the illustrated configuration, a shape of edges 7304 that
create a vertical (e.g., rear) seam of the headgear arrangement
7300 are selected to provide a desired final shape once assembled.
For example, the patterns 7302 can be mirror images of one another
and can include cut-outs 7306 that together form an opening in the
headgear arrangement 7300 to accommodate, for example, a user's
hair arranged in a ponytail. An upper portion 7310 of the patterns
7302 above the cut-out 7306 can have a curved edge 7304 that curves
outwardly in a direction from a bottom to a top of the edge 7312. A
lower portion 7320 of the patterns 7302 below the cut-out 7306 can
have a curved edge 7304 that curves inwardly from a bottom to a top
of the edge 7304. Overall, the edges 7304 can cooperate to define a
generally hourglass shape, as illustrated in FIG. 73. As
illustrated in FIG. 74, such an arrangement, when assembled, can
result in an upper strap portion 7310 that curves inwardly from
bottom to top and a lower strap portion 7320 that has a concave
curvature. The lower strap portion 7320 can also generally move
inwardly from top to bottom. Such an arrangement can conform to the
shape of the user's head, for example, the rear of the head. The
lower strap portion 7320 can conform to the portion of the head
formed by the occipital bone and/or the upper neck. The upper strap
portion 7310 can be positioned higher, such as on a portion of the
head formed by the parietal bone or a junction between the parietal
bone and the occipital bone. Although illustrated as edges 7304,
portions of material can be connected along sew lines or attachment
lines that are not edges of material, but one or more of the sew
lines or attachment lines can be located in an intermediate portion
of material.
[0335] FIGS. 75-79 illustrates an interface assembly 7500 that is
arranged and configured in accordance with certain features,
aspects and advantages of the present disclosure. The illustrated
interface assembly 7500 includes an interface 7502 and a headgear
7504. The illustrated interface 7502 is a nasal-oral mask but, as
described herein, other types of interfaces can be used with the
disclosed headgear 7504. The illustrated mask 7502 generally
comprises a frame 7506 that supports a seal 7508. The mask 7502 can
be connected to a supply conduit (not shown), which can be used to
supply breathing gases to a user. As described above, in some
configurations, the mask 7502 can seal around a mouth of a user and
on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask 7502 can provide
pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth of the
user.
[0336] The headgear 7504 can be coupled to the mask 7502 at one or
more mounting locations or mounting points 7510. Preferably, at
least a portion of the headgear 7504 comprises or is constructed
from a relatively rigid material, such as a semi-rigid or rigid
material. As described herein, preferably, the relatively rigid
material resists substantial deformation in response to blow-off
forces and, preferably, in response to hose pull forces and/or
other expected external forces. For example and without limitation,
the relatively rigid material can be polycarbonate, nylon, ABS,
polypropylene or other materials having similar mechanical
properties, especially with respect to rigidity. In some
configurations, at least a portion of the headgear 7504 that
contacts the user's face is relatively rigid. As described further
below, the relatively rigid portion(s) 7570 that contact the user's
face can be positioned on or near the user's cheeks, such as a
portion corresponding to the zygomatic and/or maxilla bones. In
some configurations, the relatively rigid portions 7570 that
contact the user's face are positioned adjacent each side of an
upper portion of the mask 7502, such as generally rearward of the
corresponding (e.g., upper) mounting points 7510. Such an
arrangement can permit the headgear 7504 to anchor onto or be
supported on the user's face at the portions 7570 so that
tightening of the headgear 7504 tends to cause an increase in the
pressure applied to the user's face by the headgear 7504, with
substantial compression of the mask seal 7508 avoided or limited.
Rather, compression of the mask seal 7508 can be at least primarily
controlled by the geometry of the interface assembly 7500 (and/or a
seal adjustment mechanism, such as the arrangement described in
connection with FIG. 92) instead of the force applied to the mask
7502 by the headgear 7504. That is, the headgear 7504 can be
configured to support the mask 7502 at a desired location relative
to the user's face and the contact of the rigid portions 7570 of
the headgear 7504 with the user's face can avoid or limit
substantial compression of the seal 7508 in response to tightening
of the headgear 7504. In other words, the rigid portions 7570 of
the headgear 7504 may fix the distance between the user's cheeks
and the seal housing or frame 7506, thereby inhibiting or
preventing possible over-compression of the seal 7508 as a result
of tightening of the headgear 7504. Preferably, forces created by
tightening of the headgear 7504 are resisted at least in part by
the relatively rigid portion(s) 7570 and not entirely by the mask
seal 7508. In some configurations, the relatively rigid portion(s)
7570 provide significantly greater resistance to tightening forces
than the mask seal 7508.
[0337] In some configurations, a lower strap portion 7518 and an
upper arm portion 7520 are provided on each side of the headgear
7504 to connect the mask 7502 to a rear portion of the headgear
7504. The lower strap 7518 and upper arm 7520 can connect to the
mask 7502 at respective lower and upper mounting locations 7510. In
some configurations, the rigid portions 7570 can be defined by,
secured to or otherwise carried by the upper arm 7520. The rigid
portion 7570 of the upper arm 7520 can comprise support arms 7572
that extend away from the user's face and define the mounting
points 7510 between the headgear 7504 and the mask 7502.
[0338] The headgear 7504 can also comprise a crown strap portion
7516 and a rear strap portion 7550. The crown strap 7516 extends
from respective rearward ends of the upper arms 7520 across the top
of the user's head. The rear strap portion 7550 extends from
rearward ends of the upper arms 7520 around the back of the user's
head. The upper arm 7520, crown strap 7516 and rear strap 7550 can
converge at a location generally above an ear of the user.
[0339] In some configurations, at least the upper arms 7520
comprise or are constructed from a relatively rigid material. In
some configurations, at least portions of one or both of the crown
strap 7516 and the rear strap 7550 comprise or are constructed from
a relatively rigid material. In the illustrated arrangement, at
least portions of both of the crown strap 7516 and the rear strap
7550 comprise or are constructed from a relatively rigid material.
The upper arms 7520 and crown strap 7516 (along with the mask 7502)
can define a front halo portion 7512. The rear strap 7550 and the
crown strap 7516 can define a rear halo portion 7514. Preferably,
the lower straps are constructed from a less rigid material, such
as a flexible material.
[0340] The headgear 7504 can provide for adjustment to allow the
headgear 7504 to be adjusted to fit an individual user. For
example, one or more adjustment mechanisms 7540 can be provided to
within portions of the headgear 7504, such as one or both of the
crown strap 7516 and the rear strap 7550. In the illustrated
configuration, each of the crown strap 7516 and the rear strap 7550
comprise an adjustment mechanism 7540, which permits a length of
the straps 7516, 7550 to be adjusted. Thus, adjustment of a
circumference of each of the front halo portion 7512 and the rear
halo portion 7514 is permitted. The adjustment mechanism 7540 can
comprise a flexible strap section 7542 within the straps 7516,
7550. Each flexible strap section 7542 can comprise a portion that
doubles over onto itself to form an adjustment loop 7544. The
adjustment loop 7544 can be secured by any suitable fastener, such
as a hook-and-loop fastener, for example.
[0341] In the illustrated configuration, the headgear 7504 includes
two relatively rigid sections 7546, each including one of the upper
arms 7520, a portion of the crown strap 7516 and a portion of the
rear strap 7550. The rigid sections 7546 can be substantial mirror
images of one another and can be shaped to conform to the shape of
a user's head. Thus, the rigid sections 7546 can comprise curved
shapes at any or all of forward, rearward and upper end portions
and can be less curved in a central portion, which can be
positioned generally on the side of the user's head. Such shaping
can provide feedback to the user for proper placement of the
headgear 7504 on the head and/or can reduce or eliminate pressure
points when the headgear 7504 is slept on.
[0342] In some configurations, portions or a substantial entirety
of the rigid sections 7546 can be partially or completely covered
by a pad 7590. The pad 7590 can be constructed of any suitable
material for increasing comfort for the user. The pad 7590, for
example and without limitation, can be constructed from silicone,
thermoplastic elastomer, thermoplastic polyurethane, other
materials with similar mechanical properties, cloth-type materials
(cloth covered foam), rubber/foam materials or other suitable soft
materials. In some applications, it may be desirable for the pad
7590 to provide increased friction with the user's skin. As
described above, one suitable material for a pad 7590 is silicone,
which may be overmolded or otherwise applied onto the rigid
sections 7546. If desired, the silicone or other material used for
the pad 7590 can be mechanically interfaced with the rigid sections
7546, such as by including openings or depressions in the rigid
sections 7546 that are filled with the pad 7590 material to
interlock the pad 7590 with the rigid section 7546. In some
configurations, the pad 7590 is provided only on a skin-contacting
side of a portion or a substantial entirety of the rigid sections
7546. However, in the illustrated arrangement, the pad 7590
completely surrounds the rigid sections 7546.
[0343] Ends of the crown strap 7516 and rear strap 7550 of each
rigid section 7546 can comprise one or more connectors, such as one
or more loops 7548, which can provide for coupling of the flexible
strap sections 7542 to the rigid sections 7546. The ends of the
rear strap 7550 include two loops 7548. One loop 7548 allows
coupling of the flexible strap section 7542 to the rigid section
7546 and the second loop 7548 allows coupling of the lower strap
7518 to the rigid section 7546. The loops 7548 can be oriented to
direct the flexible strap sections 7542 in a desired direction. The
loops 7548 of the crown strap 7516 and the loop of the rear strap
7550 for the flexible strap section 7542 can be oriented with the
slot of the loop 7548 generally perpendicular to an axial direction
of the strap 7516, 7550.
[0344] In some configurations, the mask 7502 is coupled to the
upper strap 7520 by a rotational coupling 7560, which can be the
same as or similar to any of the rotational couplings disclosed
herein, such as the rotational coupling 1900 of FIG. 19, the
rotational coupling 2944 of FIGS. 29 and 30 or the rotational
couplings of FIGS. 35 and 36, for example and without limitation.
Other suitable rotational couplings could also be used. The
rotational coupling 7560 defines a pivot axis of the mask 7502. In
some configurations, the lower strap 7518 can be used to secure the
mask 7502 in a desired rotational position. In other
configurations, the mask 7502 can be secured in a desired
rotational position by another suitable mechanism, such as the
detent rotational coupling 1900 of FIG. 19 or a separate lock, and
the lower strap 7518 could be omitted. Unless indicated otherwise,
features of the interface assembly 7500 or portions thereof can be
the same as or similar to other interfaces or portions thereof
described herein, or can be of another suitable arrangement.
[0345] FIG. 80 illustrates the flexible strap section 7542 of the
rear strap 7550 with a break-fit arrangement 8000 incorporated
therein to permit quick transition of the rear strap 7550 between
an elongated orientation and a tightened orientation. As described
herein, such an arrangement can permit the rear strap 7550 to be
adjusted to a desired length with the break-fit arrangement 8000
connected or in the tightened orientation. The break-fit
arrangement 8000 can be disconnected or moved to the elongated
orientation to permit removal or donning of the interface assembly
7500. Once donned, the break-fit arrangement 8000 can be connected
to move the rear strap 7550 to the tightened orientation, which
preferably results in a proper fit without requiring adjustment of
the rear strap 7550 with each application of the interface assembly
7500. A break-fit arrangement 8000 can be provided in any of the
flexible strap sections 7542 or within any other portion of the
headgear 7504 or interface assembly 7500.
[0346] The illustrated break-fit arrangement 8000 includes a snap
buckle or release buckle 8002 interposed within the rear strap
7550. The buckle 8002 can be positioned at one end of the flexible
strap section 7542 or can be within the flexible strap section
7542. Preferably, a leash or tether 5804 can be provided to couple
the portions of the rear strap 7550 that are separated by the
break-fit arrangement 8000 to facilitate location of the separated
portions of the rear strap 7550 even when the portions are not
visible to the user. The tether 8004 preferably has a length that
is sufficient to permit the headgear 7504/interface assembly 7500
to be applied to the user's head. In some configurations, the
tether 8004 can be constructed from an elastic material, which
permits elongation of the tether 8004 for application of the
interface assembly 7500 and then moves the portions of the rear
strap 7550 closer together to facilitate connection of the
break-fit arrangement 8000. Other suitable break-fit arrangements
could also be utilized, such as any of those described herein, for
example and without limitation.
[0347] FIGS. 81-83 illustrate an interface assembly having
relatively rigid support portions which support the interface
assembly relative to the user's head to provide at least some
isolation of the interface from forces applied to tighten the
headgear. Such an interface assembly may be the same as or
substantially similar to the interface assembly 7500 and is
described in that context using the same reference numbers. FIG. 81
is a top view of a portion of the user's face with the interface
assembly 7500 applied. The left side of FIG. 81 (from the
perspective of the viewer) illustrates the interface assembly 7500
in a less tensioned or less tightened state and the right side of
FIG. 81 illustrates the interface assembly 7500 in a more tensioned
or more tightened state relative to the left side to illustrate the
result of an application of tensioning or tightening force to the
interface assembly 7500.
[0348] With respect to the left side of FIG. 81, in a less
tightened state, the rigid portion 7570 of the upper arm 7520 can
lightly contact the user's face or, in some cases, may not contact
the user's face. For example, under some conditions, the mask seal
7508 can hold the rigid portion 7570 away from the user's face.
Preferably, at least a portion of the mask seal 7508 extends
rearwardly of the forward-most edge of the rigid portion 7570 or a
projection of the rigid portion 7570 to ensure that the seal 7508
contacts the user's face. The support arm 7572 holds the mask 7502
at a desired location relative to the headgear 7504 and/or the
user's face.
[0349] The right side of FIG. 81 illustrates the result of a
tightening force being applied to the interface assembly 7500 or
headgear 7504, which is illustrated by the arrows in FIG. 81. The
tightening force tends to pull the mask 7502 towards the user's
face. However, unlike many interface assemblies, the rigid portion
7570 of the illustrated interface assembly 7500 contacts the user's
face to limit rearward movement of the mask 7502 and, thus, limit
compression of the mask seal 7508. As illustrated, the pad 7590 (if
provided) can be compressed as a result of applied tightening
force, but the underlying rigid portion 7570 can inhibit or prevent
further rearward movement once the pad 7590 is compressed.
[0350] With reference to FIGS. 82 and 83, preferably, the rigid
portions 7570 contact a portion of the user's head that can provide
resistance to rearward movement of the mask 7502. In some
configurations, the rigid portions 7570 contact a forward-facing
portion of the user's head or face. In the illustrated arrangement,
the rigid portions 7570 contact the user's cheeks. FIGS. 82 and 83
are front and top views, respectively, of a user's face
illustrating one desired contact area 8200 for the rigid portions
7570, which preferably encompasses the location indicated by the
dot 8202. The area 8200 can be located on the user's zygomatic
and/or maxilla bone. The dot 8202 can be located on either one of
the zygomatic or maxilla bone, but in at least some configurations
is located on the maxilla. Placing the rigid portions 7570 close to
the user's nose may be advantageous to maximize resistance to
rearward movement of the rigid portions 7570 and, thus, the mask
7502. However, as is apparent from FIGS. 81-83, the shape and/or
size of the mask 7502 may limit the available locations for the
rigid portions 7570. Therefore, in some configurations, the rigid
portions 7570 are located as close to the user's nose as possible
in view of the size and shape of the particular mask 7502 or other
interface that is used or with which the headgear 7504 is intended
for use.
[0351] As described above, in some configurations, the mask 7502
can be rotatably supported by the headgear 7504. Preferably, the
arms 7572 of the headgear 7504 are configured to position a pivot
axis of the mask 7502 at a desired location relative to the user's
face and/or the rigid portions 7570 of the headgear 7504. With
reference to FIGS. 84 and 85, in some configurations, the pivot
axis 8400 of the mask 7502 is located below the user's nose.
Preferably, the pivot axis 8400 is located below the user's nose
and above the user's upper lip. In some configurations, the pivot
axis 8400 can be positioned generally at a junction between the
underside of the user's nose and the user's upper lip area. In
practice, location of the pivot axis 8400 may vary from the
preferred location due to differences in facial geometry within the
overall user population. However, the location of the pivot axis
8400 will be sufficiently close to the preferred location such that
the mask seal 7508 will seal against the underside of the user's
nose. As described above, and illustrated in FIG. 85, the mask 7502
can rotate about the pivot axis 8400 to adjust to the user's facial
geometry (e.g., chin shape) and to properly seal against the user's
face. The mask 7502 can be secured in the desired rotational
position relative to the pivot axis 8400 by any suitable
arrangement, such as the bottom strap 7518, for example and without
limitation.
[0352] FIGS. 86a-86g illustrate several possible cross-sectional
arrangements for the rigid sections 7546 and/or rigid portions 7570
of the headgear 7504 in configurations having a pad 7590, with the
bottom surface being the skin contact surface. In FIG. 86a, the
rigid section 7547/rigid portion 7570 is generally oval in
cross-sectional shape. The pad 7590 completely surrounds the rigid
section 7547/rigid portion 7570 and defines a generally or
substantially flat skin contact surface. A surface opposite the
skin contact surface has a convex curved shape as a result of the
pad 7590 extending over the rigid section 7547/rigid portion 7570.
The pad 7590 includes lateral side portions (relative to the
orientation in FIG. 86a) extending outward from the rigid section
7547/rigid portion 7570. The arrangement of FIG. 86b is
substantially similar to the arrangement of FIG. 86a, except the
rigid section 7547/rigid portion 7570 is rectangular or square in
cross-sectional shape in FIG. 86b.
[0353] FIG. 86c illustrates an arrangement having a generally oval
rigid section 7547/rigid portion 7570 covered by a generally oval
pad 7590. The pad 7590 can have lateral side portions than are
thicker than the portions above and below the rigid section
7547/rigid portion 7570. FIG. 86d illustrates an arrangement having
a generally oval rigid section 7547/rigid portion 7570 and a pad
7590 that defines a generally flat skin contacting surface. One
lateral end of the pad 7590 can be curved and generally match the
shape of the rigid section 7547/rigid portion 7570 and the other
lateral end of the pad 7590 can have a tapered shape.
[0354] FIGS. 86e-86g illustrate arrangements having a generally
flat strap or flat rectangular shaped rigid section 7547/rigid
portion 7570. In FIG. 86e, the pad 7590 covers each end of the
rigid section 7547/rigid portion 7570 and leaves a center portion
of the rigid section 7547/rigid portion 7570 uncovered. In FIG.
86f, the pad 7590 covers both ends and a skin contact side of the
rigid section 7547/rigid portion 7570, with a center portion of the
side opposite the skin contact side of the rigid section 7547/rigid
portion 7570 uncovered. In FIG. 86g, the pad 7590 does not cover
the skin contact surface. However, preferably, the pad 7590 covers
all other surfaces of the rigid section 7547/rigid portion 7570.
Such arrangements are merely examples. Other suitable arrangements
can also be used.
[0355] FIG. 87 is a side view of a user with the rigid section 7547
of the headgear 7504 positioned on the user. As described herein,
many of the interface assemblies generally define one or both of a
front halo portion and a rear halo portion. The headgear 7504
defines both a front halo portion 7512 and a rear halo portion
7514, each of which define a generally halo shape. As illustrated
in FIG. 87, the halo shape of the halo portions 7512, 7514 does not
necessarily coincide with the physical structure of the headgear
7504 throughout the entire circumference of the halo shape.
However, the physical structure of the headgear 7504 alone or in
combination with the mask 7502 or other interface preferably
defines a closed loop for each halo portion 7512, 7514. Many
different physical shapes to accomplish the halo portions 7512,
7514 are possible.
[0356] FIGS. 88a-88f illustrate approximate shapes of a headgear
that can form both a front halo portion 8812 and a rear halo
portion 8814. The headgear can include additional structures, as
well, such as lower mask straps, for example. In FIG. 88a, the
front halo portion 8812 and the rear halo portion 8814 meet at the
top of the user's head. In some configurations, an ear strap
portion 8816 can extend over the user's ear between the front halo
portion 8812 and the rear halo portion 8814. In FIG. 88b, the rear
halo portion 8814 is a generally continuous circular shape. The
front halo portion 8812 curves over the user's ear to intersect
with the rear halo portion 8814, in a manner similar to the ear
strap portion 8816 of FIG. 88a. However, the upper part of the rear
halo portion 8814 above the intersection with the lower front halo
portion 8812 also defines an upper part of the front halo portion
8812.
[0357] In FIG. 88c, the headgear has a front strap portion 8820, a
rear strap portion 8850 and a crown strap portion 8816. The crown
strap 8816 passes directly over the top of the user's head from ear
to ear. The crown strap 8816 forms a portion of each of the front
halo portion 8812 and the rear halo portion 8814 in combination
with the front strap 8820 and the rear strap 8850, respectively. In
FIG. 88d, each of the front halo portion 8812 and the rear halo
portion 8814 is substantially circular in shape. The front halo
portion 8812 and the rear halo portion 8814 cross over one another
at a location generally above the user's ear such that an upper
portion of the front halo portion 8812 is rearward of an upper
portion of the rear halo portion 8814.
[0358] In FIG. 88e, the front halo portion 8812 is substantially
circular and the rear strap 8850 extends from one side of the front
halo portion 8812 to the other passing over the user's ears and
around the back of the head. The rear strap 8850 and the upper part
of the front halo portion 8812 form the rear halo portion 8814. In
FIG. 88f, the rear halo portion 8814 is substantially circular and
the front straps 8820 curved from a side of the rear halo portion
8814 passing above the user's ears and toward the underside of the
nose. The upper part of the rear halo portion 8814 and the front
straps 8820 cooperate to form the front halo portion 8812 (along
with the mask or other interface). The headgear of FIG. 88f is
substantially similar to the headgear of FIG. 88d with the upper
part of the front halo portion 8812 removed. The shapes of FIGS.
88a-88f are merely examples of possible headgear having front halo
portions 8812 and rear halo portions 8814. Other shapes are also
possible.
[0359] As described herein, the various interface assemblies can
include break-fit assemblies that permit the interface assembly to
be conveniently enlarged to facilitate application and removal.
Preferably, the break-fit assemblies permit application and removal
of the interface assemblies without readjustment upon each
application. FIGS. 89a-89f illustrate various possible locations
for the break-fit assemblies within the headgear. FIGS. 89a and 89b
illustrate a break-fit assembly 8900 within a rear halo portion,
such as a rear strap 8950 of the headgear, which extends around the
back of the user's head. FIG. 89a illustrates the break-fit
assembly 8900 in a connected state and FIG. 89b illustrates the
break-fit assembly 8900 in a disconnected state. Optionally, the
portions 8902, 8904 of the break-fit assembly 8900 can be coupled
by a tether 8910 that limits separation of the portions 8902, 8904
and can facilitate non-visual location of the portions 8902, 8904
for reconnection. In some configurations, the tether 8910 is
elasticated.
[0360] FIGS. 89c and 89d illustrate a break-fit assembly 8900 in a
front halo portion, such as an upper strap 8920 of the headgear.
FIG. 89c illustrates the break-fit assembly 8900 in a connected
state and FIG. 89d illustrates the break-fit assembly 8900 in a
disconnected state. The portions 8902, 8904 of the break-fit
assembly 8900 can optionally be coupled by a tether 8910, which can
be elasticated in some configurations.
[0361] FIGS. 89e and 89f illustrate a break-fit assembly 8900
between a front halo portion 8912 and a rear halo portion 8914 of
the headgear. For example, the break-fit assembly 8900 can be
positioned at an intersection of a rear strap portion 8950, an
upper strap portion 8920 and a crown strap portion 8916. The
break-fit assembly 8900 can permit at least limited separation of
the front halo portion 8912 and the rear halo portion 8914 to
facilitate application or removal of the headgear. In some
configurations, the front halo portion 8912 and the rear halo
portion 8914 do not completely separate and, therefore, a tether is
not provided. However, if desired, a tether could be provided
whether or not the front halo portion 8912 and the rear halo
portion 8914 completely separate.
[0362] With reference to FIG. 90, a headgear 9004 is illustrated
that is similar to other headgear arrangements disclosed herein.
The headgear 9004 has a front or upper strap or arm portion 9020, a
crown strap portion 9016 and a rear strap portion 9050. Although
not illustrated, the headgear 9004 could include additional
structural portions, such as a lower strap portion, for example.
Similar to the headgear 7504 of the interface assembly 7500,
preferably at least a portion of the headgear 9004 is relatively
rigid, such as rigid or semi-rigid. In the illustrated arrangement,
at least the upper arm 9020 is relatively rigid. Preferably, a
rearward portion of the upper arm 9020 that is divided and forms
initial portions of the crown strap 9016 and the rear strap 9050 is
also relatively rigid and can be of a unitary construction with the
remainder of the upper arm 9020. As illustrated, the upper arm 9020
is curved. Preferably, the upper arm 9020 is sufficiently rigid to
inhibit substantial deformation of the curved shape at least in
response to blow-off forces.
[0363] Preferably, at least the initial curved portions 9052 of the
rear strap 9050 rearward of the user's ears (end portions of the
rear strap 9050 indicated with dashed lines) are constructed from
at least a semi-rigid material to resist deformation of the curved
shape at least in response to blow-off forces. In some
configurations, the portions 9052 are constructed from a rigid
material, which can be the same material as the upper arm 9020. The
portions 9052 can be unitarily formed with the upper arms 9020. The
remaining portions 9016a, 9050a of the crown strap 9016 and the
rear strap 9050, respectively, can be constructed from a relatively
rigid material or a non-rigid material. As illustrated, the
portions 9016a and 9050a are subject to primarily axial forces.
Accordingly, flexible or non-rigid materials can be used if
desired, such as for comfort reasons.
[0364] FIG. 91 illustrates an interface assembly 9100 comprising an
interface 9102 and a headgear 9104. The interface 9102 (shown
schematically) can be any suitable interface 9102, such as a
nasal-oral mask that can seal around a mouth of a user and on an
underside of a nose of the user, for example. The mask 9102 can be
similar to any of the interfaces/masks disclosed herein. However,
other types of interfaces can be used with the disclosed headgear
9104. The illustrated headgear 9104 is coupled to the mask 9102 at
a mounting location or mounting point 9110 on each side of the mask
9102. Preferably, the mask 9102 is coupled to the headgear 9104 by
a rotational coupling 9144, which can be of any suitable
arrangement, such as any of the rotational couplings herein.
Preferably, the rotational coupling 9144 can be locked in a desired
rotational position. For example, the rotational coupling 9144 can
include a detent arrangement, such as the arrangement described
with respect to FIG. 19, for example. The rotational coupling 9144
could be manually locked in the desired rotational position. Other
suitable arrangements could also be used.
[0365] Preferably, the rotational coupling 9144 can be secured in
place without a lower strap portion. However, if desired, the
headgear 9104 can include a lower strap portion. The illustrated
headgear 9104 includes an upper strap portion 9120 on each side of
the headgear 9104 to connect the mask 9102 to a rear portion of the
headgear 9104. The headgear 9104 can also include a crown strap
9116 and a rear strap 9150. Unless indicated otherwise, features of
the interface assembly 9100 or portions thereof can be the same as
or similar to other interfaces or portions thereof described
herein, or can be of another suitable arrangement.
[0366] FIG. 92 illustrates an interface assembly 7500 that is
similar in many respects to the interface assembly 7500 of FIGS.
75-79. Therefore, the same reference numbers are used to refer to
the same or corresponding components or features. In addition, the
interface assembly 7500 of FIG. 92 is described in the context of
the differences relative to the interface assembly 7500 of FIGS.
75-79. Features of the interface assembly 7500 or portions thereof
not specifically described can be assumed to be the same as or
similar to features of the interface assembly 7500 of FIGS. 75-79,
other interfaces or portions thereof described herein, or can be of
another suitable arrangement.
[0367] The illustrated interface assembly 7500 includes an
interface 7502 and a headgear 7504. The illustrated interface 7502
is a nasal-oral mask but, as described herein, other types of
interfaces can be used with the disclosed headgear 7504. The
illustrated mask 7502 generally comprises a frame 7506 that
supports a seal 7508. The mask 7502 can be connected to a supply
conduit (not shown), which can be used to supply breathing gases to
a user. As described above, in some configurations, the mask 7502
can seal around a mouth of a user and on an underside of a nose of
the user. Such a mask 7502 can provide pressurized air flow to both
the nose and the mouth of the user.
[0368] As described herein, the headgear 7504 preferably supports
the mask 7502 at a desired location relative to the headgear 7504
and the mask 7502 is at least partially isolated from tightening of
the headgear 7504. That is, tightening of the headgear 7504 does
not substantially alter a position of the mask 7502 relative to the
user's face. Thus, in the illustrated arrangement, the mask 7502
includes a seal adjustment arrangement 9200, which permits a
position of the seal 7508 to be adjusted relative to the frame
7506. Such an arrangement permits the position of the seal 7508 to
be micro-adjusted to accommodate variations in facial geometry.
Preferably, rotational adjustment of the mask 7502 is also
permitted.
[0369] The illustrated seal adjustment arrangement 9200 includes a
threaded tube 9202 that is coupled to the mask seal 7508. The tube
9202 can be coupled to the supply conduit and can deliver breathing
gases from the supply conduit to the interior of the seal 7508. A
dial 9204 can be supported by the mask frame 7502 and can include
internal threads that mate with the threads of the tube 9202.
Rotation of the dial 9204 can cause translation or linear movement
of the seal 7508 toward and away from the mask frame 7506. Other
suitable adjustment mechanisms can also be used. Examples of
similar adjustment arrangements are disclosed in PCT Publication
No. WO2004/052,438, the entirety of which is incorporated by
reference herein.
[0370] FIG. 93 illustrates an interface assembly 7500 that is
similar in many respects to the interface assembly 7500 of FIGS.
75-79. Therefore, the same reference numbers are used to refer to
the same or corresponding components or features. In addition, the
interface assembly 7500 of FIG. 93 is described in the context of
the differences relative to the interface assembly 7500 of FIGS.
75-79. Features of the interface assembly 7500 or portions thereof
not specifically described can be assumed to be the same as or
similar to features of the interface assembly 7500 of FIGS. 75-79,
other interfaces or portions thereof described herein, or can be of
another suitable arrangement.
[0371] The illustrated interface assembly 7500 includes an
interface 7502 and a headgear 7504. The illustrated interface 7502
is a nasal-oral mask but, as described herein, other types of
interfaces can be used with the disclosed headgear 7504. The
illustrated mask 7502 generally comprises a frame 7506 that
supports a seal 7508. The mask 7502 can be connected to a supply
conduit (not shown), which can be used to supply breathing gases to
a user. As described above, in some configurations, the mask 7502
can seal around a mouth of a user and on an underside of a nose of
the user. Such a mask 7502 can provide pressurized air flow to both
the nose and the mouth of the user.
[0372] The headgear 7504 can be coupled to the mask 7502 at one or
more mounting locations or mounting points 7510. Preferably, a
lower strap portion 7518 and an upper arm portion 7520 are provided
on each side of the headgear 7504 to connect the mask 7502 to a
rear portion of the headgear 7504. The mask 7502 can be rotatably
supported relative to the upper arm 7520 with the lower strap 7518
fixing a rotational position of the mask 7502. Unless indicated
otherwise, features of the interface assembly 7500 or portions
thereof can be the same as or similar to other interfaces or
portions thereof described herein, or can be of another suitable
arrangement.
[0373] The illustrated interface assembly 7500 includes an enlarged
and/or contoured relatively rigid or cheek-contacting portion 7570.
Such an arrangement can increase the ability of the headgear 7504
to anchor on the face of the user and at least partially isolate
the mask 7502 from the adjustment of the headgear 7504. Such an
arrangement can also spread the load applied to the user's face
over a larger area for improved comfort. In some configurations,
the portion 7570 is formed by the pad 7590 that covers the
underlying rigid section 7546.
[0374] To facilitate application and removal of the interface
assembly 7500, a quick-release mechanism 9300 can be provided to
move the interface assembly 7500 to an enlarged circumference or
open state. The quick-release mechanism 9300 can be of any suitable
arrangement, such as any of the arrangements of FIGS. 50-72 or any
others disclosed herein, for example and without limitation. In the
illustrated arrangement, the quick-release mechanism 9300 comprises
a clip 9302 that can be disconnected from the remainder of the mask
7502. In some configurations, the clip 9302 can be tethered or
otherwise coupled to the remainder of the mask 7502 in the
disconnected state to facilitate reconnection of the clip 9302.
[0375] Although the present invention has been described in terms
of a certain embodiments, other embodiments apparent to those of
ordinary skill in the art also are within the scope of this
invention. Thus, various changes and modifications may be made
without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. For
instance, various components may be repositioned as desired.
Moreover, not all of the features, aspects and advantages are
necessarily required to practice the present invention.
[0376] In addition, some portions of one assembly could be used
with other portions of other assemblies to provide further
assemblies not explicitly shown herein. For example, straps or
portions of straps of one assembly may be used with a halo or the
like from another assembly. Any of the various quick-release
arrangements can be utilized with any of the headgear assemblies
disclosed herein. Any of the rotational connections between the
interface and the headgear can be used with any of the headgear
assemblies disclosed herein. Any break-fit assemblies can be
incorporated into any of the interface assemblies disclosed herein.
In general, any feature from interface assembly can be incorporated
into any other interface assembly to the extent possible or
apparent to those skilled in the art. Such further variations
should be considered expressly contained herein. Accordingly, the
scope of the present invention is intended to be defined only by
the claims that follow.
* * * * *