Abstract: A patient interface device (8) that includes a cushion (12) structured to receive a flow of treatment gas, a frame (14) having a central portion (17) structured to couple with the cushion and a strap (18a, 18b) extending from the central portion, a headgear component (28) including at least one of a top portion (30) adapted to fit on top of a patient's head and a rear portion (32) adapted to fit behind the patient's head, and a coupling mechanism (34a, 34b) structured to couple the strap to the headgear component, wherein an end portion of the strap is structured to pass through an opening in the coupling mechanism, fold back in a direction toward the central portion of the frame, and releasably attach to the strap, such that pulling the end portion of the strap toward the central portion of the frame tightens the patient interface device.

Abstract: A patient interface device (8) that includes a cushion (12) structured to receive a flow of treatment gas, a frame (14) having a central portion (17) structured to couple with the cushion and a strap (18a, 18b) extending from the central portion, a headgear component (28) including at least one of a top portion (30) adapted to fit on top of a patient's head and a rear portion (32) adapted to fit behind the patient's head, and a coupling mechanism (34a, 34b) structured to couple the strap to the headgear component, wherein an end portion of the strap is structured to pass through an opening in the coupling mechanism, fold back in a direction toward the central portion of the frame, and releaseably attach to the strap, such that pulling the end portion of the strap toward the central portion of the frame tightens the patient interface device.

Abstract: An improved patient interface (4) having a cushion (12) and a headgear (16), with the headgear having a pair of engagement elements (24) that each engage the patient with an engagement force, and with the engagement forces being directed generally toward one another. The engagement forces result in frictional forces between the headgear and the patient which resist the cushion from becoming disengaged with the patient. In one embodiment, the engagement elements each include a circumferential brace (44) that engages the head and extends about the ears. In another embodiment, the engagement elements engage the ears of the patient. In a free state, at least a portion of the headgear is of a spiral configuration which makes the patient interface collapsible and relatively easy to pack, such as for traveling.