RESPIRATORY MASK AND RELATED PORTIONS, COMPONENTS OR SUB-ASSEMBLIES
A respiratory mask for providing positive pressure therapy and a bias-flow venting system configured to reduce discernable draft generated by exhausted air are disclosed herein. The respiratory mask has a ball jointed elbow, one or more detachable forehead pieces and a headgear with a spacer fabric region. The elbow is configured to be removable when oriented to a predetermined position. The forehead pieces are provided in one or more sizes. The spacer fabric region having two or more layers wherein the raw edges are turned to the inside of the layers. The seal having improved seal performance and accommodating a wider variety of facial geometries. The bias-flow system having a tube and exhaust holes radially aligned on a bead of the tube. The bias-flow system also having an annular component exhaust holes and a shroud having a plenum chamber around the exhaust holes.
This application is related to and claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application Nos. 62/041,236, filed Aug. 25, 2014, 62/096,481, filed Dec. 23, 2014, 62/041,234, filed Aug. 25, 2014 and 62/041,262, filed Aug. 25, 2014, the entireties of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein and made a part of the present disclosure.
BACKGROUND FieldThe present disclosure generally relates to respiratory masks that cover at least one of a nose and a mouth of a user to supply respiratory gas under positive pressure. More particularly, certain aspects of the present disclosure relate to a respiratory mask with one or more of a removable ball jointed elbow, one or more detachable forehead pieces, and spacer fabric headgear. The disclosure also relates to seal cushion arrangements.
Description of Related ArtRespiratory masks can be used to provide respiratory gases to a user under positive pressure. In configurations that include a ball joint, it may be possible for dirt to build up between the ball joint and the socket. Removal of this dirt may be difficult with the ball joint and socket connected. It is also possible for cleaning products to build up in the connection between the ball joint and socket as a result of the surfaces being inaccessible for manual cleaning. The buildup of dirt and/or cleaning products may affect the hygiene of the mask and, thus, limit its useful lifetime. The ball joint is usually permanently connected to its corresponding socket, or it is at least very difficult to remove and/or insert. In some instances removal of the ball joint may require considerable force and may result in permanent damage to the mask.
Respiratory masks are typically available in a range of fixed sizes to suit users with differing facial geometries. This generally involves the manufacture of the entire mask, or at least the major mask components, in a range of sizes; which in turn increases the tooling and manufacturing costs associated with the mask. Another problem associated with fixed mask sizes is that it is possible that a single fixed size mask is not suitable for a particular user's facial geometries. A user's facial geometry may be such that, in order to achieve the best fit possible, the user requires each of the mask components in a different size, which is not possible with a fixed size mask.
Headgear for respiratory masks can traditionally be heavy, bulky, and hot to wear. This can lead to discomfort for the user.
Respiratory masks can have removable cushion modules that can be available in a plurality of sizes. In some cases, the different sizes are simply scaled up from one another in one or more dimensions. Other dimensions can remain the same throughout the different sizes.
Further, a large variety of respiratory masks have been devised. Many of these masks are configured to provide sealed communication with a user's airway by sealing around parts of the user's nose and/or mouth. These masks are commonly used to provide therapies such as, but not limited to, non-invasive ventilation (NW) and continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). CPAP therapy is commonly used to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and involves providing a constant supply of pressurized air to a user's airway. This splints the airway open, thus minimizing airway collapse and reducing apneas. As part of this therapy, a bias-flow venting system is required to flush exhaled carbon dioxide (CO2) from within the mask to prevent rebreathing.
Common bias-flow venting systems include arrays of holes that may be located on various respiratory mask components, such as elbows and mask frames. These holes are often positioned and aligned in clusters and in such a way that a concentrated flow of air is exhausted from them. The venting system can become a source of discernable drafts and noise. Drafts and noise can be annoying to both the user and/or their bed partner and may result in reduced compliance with the therapy. A number of approaches have been tried to alleviate these discomforts.
SUMMARYThe systems, methods and devices described herein have innovative aspects, no single one of which is indispensable or solely responsible for their desirable attributes. Without limiting the scope of the claims, some of the advantageous features will now be summarized.
It is an object of the present disclosure to provide one or more constructions or methods that will at least go some way towards improving on the above or that will at least provide the public with a useful choice.
In accordance with at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a cushion module for a respiratory interface is provided including a seal housing constructed from a relatively rigid material, the seal housing defining an aperture configured to allow a breathing gas to enter an interior of the cushion module, and a seal supported by the seal housing and having an upper portion and a lower portion. The seal further includes a face contacting surface configured to contact the face of a user and create at least a substantial seal with the face of the user, the face contacting surface having an inner edge defining an opening in the face contacting surface. The upper portion of the seal includes a reduced stiffness portion defined between a first boundary and a second boundary such that the reduced stiffness portion deforms in response to forward movement of an upper portion of the face contacting surface, wherein an angle defined between the first boundary and the second boundary is at least about 20 degrees.
According to a further aspect, the angle between the first boundary and the second boundary is at least about 25 degrees.
According to a further aspect, the angle between the first boundary and the second boundary is between about 27 degrees and about 34 degrees.
According to a further aspect, the angle between the first boundary and the second boundary is one of about 27 degrees, about 29 degrees and about 34 degrees.
According to a further aspect, a distance between a point on a centerline of the upper portion and a point on the centerline of the lower portion of the face contacting surface of the seal varies by more than 2 mm between a neutral position and a depressed position of the reduced stiffness region.
According to a further aspect, the distance between the point on a centerline of the upper portion and the point on the centerline of the lower portion of the face contacting surface of the seal varies by at least about 5 mm, at least about 6 mm, at least about 8 mm or at least about 10 mm or at least about 12 mm between the neutral position and the depressed position of the reduced stiffness region.
According to a further aspect, a portion of the seal defining the face contacting surface comprises a pair of nose pads positioned on each side of the opening in the upper portion of the seal, wherein an entirety of each of the nose pads is spaced outwardly from the opening.
According to a further aspect, the nose pads are the thickest portions of the portion of the seal defining the face contact surface.
According to a further aspect, the cushion module includes a pair of thickened outer peripheral portions defined by the portion of the seal defining the face contacting surface, wherein at least a portion of the thickened outer peripheral portions are positioned below the nose pads.
According to a further aspect, at least a portion of the thickened outer peripheral portions are positioned above the nose pads.
According to a further aspect, a continuous portion of the inner edge of the opening defines a thickness of equal to or less than 0.6 mm, wherein the continuous portion of the inner edge extends inwardly from the inner edge at least 1 mm and extends along at least an entirety of the upper portion of the seal.
According to a further aspect, a section of the continuous portion of the inner edge located within 0.5 mm of the inner edge is equal to or less than 0.4 mm in thickness.
According to a further aspect, the upper portion of the seal defines a nose bridge portion that contacts a bridge of the user's nose, wherein the nose bridge portion of the opening defines a continuously curved portion of the inner edge.
According to a further aspect, a width of the nose bridge portion is equal to or less than about 11 mm.
According to a further aspect, a vertical dimension of a vertical center of the nose bridge portion is equal to or greater than about 15 mm.
According to a further aspect, a depth between a rearmost point of the nose bridge portion and a lower edge of the nose bridge portion on the vertical center of the seal is at least about 4 mm.
According to a further aspect, the reduced stiffness portion comprises a front wall having a height of at least about 7 mm.
According to a further aspect, wherein the height of the front wall is between about 7.3 mm and about 7.7 mm.
According to a further aspect, a thickness of the front wall and a top wall progressively increases from a lower end of the front wall to a rearward end of the top wall.
According to a further aspect, a distance between a point on a centerline of the upper portion and a point on the centerline of the lower portion of the face contacting surface of the seal varies by more than 2 mm between a neutral position and a depressed position of the reduced stiffness region.
According to a further aspect, the distance between the point on a centerline of the upper portion and the point on the centerline of the lower portion of the face contacting surface of the seal varies by at least about 5 mm, at least about 6 mm, at least about 8 mm or at least about 10 mm or at least about 12 mm between the neutral position and the depressed position of the reduced stiffness region.
According to a further aspect, the distance varies between about 90 mm to about 84 mm between the neutral position and the depressed position of the reduced stiffness region.
According to a further aspect, the distance varies by at least about 5 percent between the neutral position and the depressed position of the reduced stiffness region.
According to a further aspect, the distance varies by at least about 6 and ⅔ percent between the neutral position and the depressed position of the reduced stiffness region.
According to a further aspect, the angle is different between the sizes of the cushion modules in at least two different sizes.
According to a further aspect, the cushion module includes a small, medium and large size, wherein the angle of the small size is greater than the angles of one or both of the medium and large sizes.
According to a further aspect, the angle of the large size is less than the angles of one or both of the small and medium sizes.
According to a further aspect, the angle of the small size is about 34 degrees, the angle of the medium size is about 29 degrees and the angle of the large size is about 27 degrees.
In accordance with at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a respiratory mask is provided and includes a frame portion configured to support a seal, wherein the seal is configured to form a substantially airtight seal with a user's face, and a conduit connector comprising a ball joint end. The frame portion defines an opening configured to receive the ball joint end of the conduit connector, the frame portion comprising a conduit connector removal notch configured to provide a leverage point for removal of the conduit connector. The conduit connector includes a portion configured to be received in the conduit connector removal notch to facilitate removal of the conduit connector from the frame portion.
According to a further aspect, the ball joint includes an end surface, the end surface comprising a tapered chamfer that defines an angle relative to a remainder of the end surface.
According to a further aspect, the ball joint comprises a rear edge, the rear edge being angled along a truncation axis, the rear edge being angled toward the lower portion of the elbow. The ball joint being a truncated ball along a truncation axis. In this aspect the rear edge is angled such that the length of the upper edge of the ball or ball joint is greater than the length of the lower edge of the ball or ball joint.
According to a further aspect, the opening is defined by an insert of the frame portion.
According to a further aspect, the conduit connector is an elbow.
According to a further aspect, the frame portion includes a cushion module that supports the seal and a headgear connector portion configured to be connected to a headgear.
According to a further aspect, the frame portion further includes a male forehead piece connector configured to connect to a separate forehead piece, which provides for a connection to a headgear.
According to a further aspect, the forehead piece is provided in multiple different sizes.
According to a further aspect, the conduit connector is removable from the opening when oriented to a predetermined position.
According to a further aspect, in combination with a headgear, the headgear comprising a spacer fabric pad located at the rear of the headgear.
According to a further aspect, the spacer fabric region includes two or more layers.
According to a further aspect, the two or more layers are sewn together at the edges with the wrong side of the fabric facing out, and then flipped right-side out so that the raw edges are on the inside.
In accordance with at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a cushion module for a respiratory interface is provided and includes a seal housing constructed from a relatively rigid material, the seal housing defining an aperture configured to allow a breathing gas to enter an interior of the cushion module, and a seal supported by the seal housing and having a first rolling portion, a second rolling portion and a lower portion. The seal further includes a face contacting surface configured to contact the face of a user and create at least a substantial seal with the face of the user, the face contacting surface having an inner edge defining an opening in the face contacting surface. The first rolling portion of the seal rotates about a first axis in response to forward movement of an upper portion of the face contacting surface, and the second rolling portion of the seal rotates about a second axis in response to forward movement of the upper portion of the face contacting surface.
According to a further aspect, an undeformed length is defined as a length of the seal between a nasal contact point and a chin contact point when the first and second rolling portions are undeformed. A partially deformed length is defined as a length of the seal between the nasal contact point and the chin contact point when the first rolling portion is fully deformed in response to forward movement of the upper portion of the face contacting surface and the second rolling portion is undeformed. A deformed length is defined as a length of the seal between the nasal contact point and the chin contact point when the first and second rolling portions are fully deformed in response to forward movement of the upper portion of the face contacting surface. The deformed length is shorter than both the undeformed length and the partially deformed length.
According to a further aspect, the difference between the undeformed length and the deformed length is greater than the difference between the undeformed length and the partially deformed length.
According to a further aspect, a difference between the undeformed length and the deformed length is approximately 17 mm.
According to a further aspect, the first and second rolling portions rotate simultaneously in response to forward movement of the upper portion of the face contacting surface.
According to a further aspect, the seal further includes a first thickened region between the upper portion of the face contacting surface and the first rolling portion, and a second thickened region between the first and second rolling portions of the seal. The first and second thickened regions prevent collapse of the first and second rolling portions in response to forward movement of the upper portion of the face contacting surface.
In accordance with at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a bias flow venting system for a respiratory mask is provided and includes a tube providing a flow path for a supply of pressurized air to the respiratory mask, and an annular array of exhaust holes formed within the tube. Exhausted air from the respiratory mask exits the tube through the exhaust holes.
According to a further aspect, the tube further includes a wall and a helical bead positioned on an outer surface of the wall.
According to a further aspect, the exhaust holes extend radially through the tube.
According to a further aspect, the exhaust holes are formed by laser drilling.
According to a further aspect, the exhaust holes extend radially through the helical bead.
According to a further aspect, the exhaust holes are positioned around an entire perimeter of the tube.
According to a further aspect, the tube is constructed from a flexible material and configured to deform along a central axis of the tube.
According to a further aspect, the exhaust holes are spaced along a length of the tube at regular intervals.
According to a further aspect, spacing between the exhaust holes increase or decrease along a length of the tube.
According to a further aspect, a pitch of the helical bead varies along a length of the tube.
According to a further aspect, the exhaust holes are disposed at a non-orthogonal angle with respect to a central axis of the tube.
In accordance with at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a bias-flow venting system for a respiratory mask is provided and includes an annular component connected to the respiratory mask and providing a flow path for a supply of pressurized air to the respiratory mask, the annular component having an array of exhaust holes extending radially through the annular component, and the exhaust holes providing an outlet for exhausted air from the respiratory mask to exit the annular component, and a shroud positioned around the annular component and defining a plenum chamber around the exhaust holes.
According to a further aspect, the exhaust holes are formed by laser drilling.
According to a further aspect, the exhaust holes are spaced around an entire perimeter of the annular component.
According to a further aspect, the shroud further comprising a conical surface facing the annular component, wherein the conical surface defines a portion of the plenum chamber.
According to a further aspect, the annular component further comprising a socket insert portion configured to surround and retain a ball joint within the socket insert.
According to a further aspect, the socket insert portion further includes an outer perimeter, an inner perimeter, front and rear insert surfaces, and exhaust holes. The inner perimeter is defined by a front bearing surface and a rear bearing surface, and the rear bearing surface is defined by a series of intermittent surfaces.
According to a further aspect, the intermittent surfaces are spaced apart by recesses.
According to a further aspect, the front bearing surface further includes a substantially spherical annular surface contacting the ball joint and providing a substantially airtight seal with the ball joint.
According to a further aspect, the recesses have substantially rectangular profiles defined by an outer recess wall, a front recess wall and two side walls.
According to a further aspect, the exhaust holes are configured to extend radially through the outer recess wall and the outer perimeter.
According to a further aspect, the insert socket has a substantially C-shaped profile, the socket having an outer perimeter and an inner perimeter separated by a front wall to define an annular channel between the outer perimeter and the inner perimeter, the inner perimeter having a front bearing surface that contacts the ball joint and provides a substantially airtight seal with the ball joint, and the outer perimeter connected to the respiratory mask.
According to a further aspect, the outer perimeter has a snap fit bump that interlocks with a snap fit connector of the respiratory mask.
According to a further aspect, an elbow connector positioned between the annular component and the respiratory mask. The annular component further includes a flange extending radially outward from an outer wall of the annular component, wherein the shroud and the flange define the plenum chamber.
In accordance with at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a respiratory mask assembly is provided and includes a mask frame, a seal housing configured to form a substantially airtight seal with a user's face, an elbow connector having a first end connected to an air supply and a second end having a ball joint disposed, and a socket insert portion positioned between the mask frame and the seal housing and configured to retain the ball joint within the socket insert. The socket insert portion has an array of exhaust holes extending through the socket insert, the exhaust holes providing an outlet for exhausted air from the seal housing to exit the socket insert.
According to a further aspect, the socket insert portion further includes an outer perimeter, an inner perimeter, front and rear insert surfaces, and exhaust holes. The inner perimeter is defined by a front bearing surface and a rear bearing surface, and the rear bearing surface is defined by a series of intermittent surfaces.
According to a further aspect, the intermittent surfaces are spaced apart by recesses.
According to a further aspect, the front bearing surface further includes a substantially spherical annular surface contacting the ball joint and providing a substantially airtight seal with the ball joint.
According to a further aspect, the recesses have substantially rectangular profiles defined by an outer recess wall, a front recess wall and two side walls.
According to a further aspect, the exhaust holes are configured to extend radially through the outer recess wall and the outer perimeter.
According to a further aspect, the insert socket has a substantially C-shaped profile, the insert socket having an outer perimeter and an inner perimeter separated by a front wall to define an annular channel between the outer perimeter and the inner perimeter, the inner perimeter having a front bearing surface that contacts the ball joint and provides a substantially airtight seal with the ball joint, and the outer perimeter connected to the seal housing.
According to a further aspect, the outer perimeter of the insert socket has a snap fit bump that interlocks with a snap fit connector of the seal housing.
According to a further aspect, the mask frame further includes a shroud positioned around the socket insert portion and defining a plenum chamber around the exhaust holes.
In accordance with at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a respiratory mask assembly is provided and includes a seal housing configured to form a substantially airtight seal with a user's face, the seal housing having an outer wall with an array of exhaust holes extending therethrough, the exhaust holes providing an outlet for exhausted air to exit the seal housing, an elbow connector having a first end connected to an air supply and a second end having a ball joint disposed, a socket insert portion positioned between the mask frame and the seal housing and configured to retain the ball joint within the socket insert, and a shroud extending from the outer wall and angled towards the elbow connector, the shroud and the outer wall defining a plenum chamber around the exhaust holes.
In accordance with at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a respiratory mask is provided and includes a mask body defining a breathing chamber, an opening to the breathing chamber and a bias flow vent comprising a plurality of vent holes configured to permit gases to exit the breathing chamber through the plurality of vent holes, the mask body configured for connection to a gases supply conduit such that a supply of breathing gas can be provided to the breathing chamber through the opening, a seal supported by the mask body and configured to create at least a substantial seal with a user's face, the seal configured to surround at least one of a nose and a mouth of the user, and a shroud supported relative to the mask body and spaced from a portion of the mask body containing the bias flow vent to define a plenum chamber that receives the gases exiting the breathing chamber through the plurality of vent holes.
The foregoing and other features of the present disclosure will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only several embodiments in accordance with the disclosure and are not to be considered limiting of its scope, the disclosure will be described with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings.
Embodiments of systems, components and methods of assembly and manufacture will now be described with reference to the accompanying figures, wherein like numerals refer to like or similar elements throughout. Although several embodiments, examples and illustrations are disclosed below, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the inventions described herein extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments, examples and illustrations, and can include other uses of the inventions and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. The terminology used in the description presented herein is not intended to be interpreted in any limited or restrictive manner simply because it is being used in conjunction with a detailed description of certain specific embodiments of the inventions. In addition, embodiments of the inventions can comprise several novel features and no single feature is solely responsible for its desirable attributes or is essential to practicing the inventions herein described.
Certain terminology may be used in the following description for the purpose of reference only, and thus are not intended to be limiting. For example, terms such as “above” and “below” refer to directions in the drawings to which reference is made. As used herein the terms ‘front’, ‘rear’, ‘upper’ and ‘lower’ shall refer to the location of a part or portion of a respiratory mask in relation to a user. Wherein, ‘front’ refers to a location that is distal to the user (when the mask is in use) and ‘rear’ refers to a location that is proximal to the user by comparison. The terms ‘upper’ and ‘lower’ refer to the location of a part or component of a mask relative to the rest of the mask when the mask is in use and the user is sitting in an upright position. Moreover, terms such as “first,” “second,” “third,” and so on may be used to describe separate components. Such terminology may include the words specifically mentioned above, derivatives thereof, and words of similar import.
The term ‘seal housing’ refers to a respiratory mask component that is configured to provide a breathing chamber that substantially surrounds a user's nose and/or mouth (when in use). A seal housing may comprise a seal that is integrally formed or removably attached, wherein the seal is configured to have a surface that contacts a user's face, thereby providing a substantially air-tight connection.
Respiratory Mask:The cushion module 110 is configured to substantially surround a user's nose and/or mouth (when in use). The cushion module 110 comprises a seal 180 and a seal housing 190, wherein the seal 180 is configured to contact the user's face and to form a substantially airtight seal. In the illustrated arrangement, the seal 180 is over-moulded to the seal housing 190. The seal housing 190 comprises a substantially enclosed breathing chamber 192 and an annular opening 194 as shown in
As shown in
The headgear connectors provide means for the headgear 150 to be connected to the mask frame 120 (as shown in
As shown in
In an alternative embodiment the ball joint 300A comprises a truncated ball. The ball joint comprises a ball 302 that creates a spherical bearing surface. The truncation axis is substantially planar and angled toward the cuff 308. The truncation axis creates an angled edge 304. The edge 304 is angled toward the lower portion of the cylindrical cuff and lower portion of the elbow. The angled edge 304 creates an angled ball such that the distance of the upper edge of the ball is greater than the lower edge of the ball.
Socket Insert:The socket insert 140 provides a socket bearing surface 412 that supports the ball joint 300A when inserted into the socket insert 140. This configuration provides a rotatable connection between the elbow 130 and the mask frame 120. The outer wall 400, the front wall 410 and the inner wall 420 are connected to form a substantially ‘u’ shaped rear channel 440, wherein the front wall 410 is substantially perpendicular to the outer wall 400 and the inner wall 420. The front wall 410 is configured to connect and support the outer wall 400 at a radial offset from the inner wall 420.
The outer wall 400 comprises one or more seal housing notches 402, a frame connection 404, and an alignment key 406. The seal housing notches 402 are configured to provide a snap fit connection between the socket insert 140 and the seal housing 190. The seal housing notches 402 comprise an indentation that forms the female component of the snap fit connection. The frame connection 404 comprises two annular ridges that form a permanent push fit connection with the corresponding geometry of the socket connection opening 200 (as shown in
The inner wall 420 comprises a socket bearing surface 412, wherein the socket bearing surface 412 is substantially spherical and configured to contact and retain the ball joint 300A of the elbow 130. The socket bearing surface 412 is configured to contact the elbow bearing surface 302, thereby forming a substantially airtight assembly. When the elbow 130 and the socket insert 140 are connected, the bearing surfaces 302, 412 are configured to allow rotational movement between the parts, whilst restricting translational movement between the front and rear of the mask.
In the illustrated arrangement, the elbow removal notch 430 is positioned on a lower portion of the edge that is formed where the front wall 410 and the inner wall 420 intersect. The removal notch 430 comprises a scalloped portion, wherein the edge is cut away to form a tapered concave surface. The elbow removal notch is configured to substantially match the geometry of the lip 310 of the elbow 130 such that, when the elbow 130 is rotated to an upside down position, the lip 310 can sit within the elbow removal notch 430, as shown in
When the elbow 130 is rotated to an approximately inverted position, the lip 310 is approximately aligned with the removal notch 430. When the lip 310 is positioned in the elbow removal notch 430, the ball joint 300 is able to rotate further within the socket insert 140. This is a result of the surface of the elbow removal notch being offset rearward of the front wall. The extra rotation allows the lowest point (when mask is in use) of the rear opening edge 304 or tapered chamfer 306 to move closer to the front wall 410 (as shown by dimension x in
Once at least a portion of the rear opening edge 304 is beyond the front wall 410, the ball joint 300 can be removed from the socket insert 140. It can be seen that the purpose of the tapered chamfer 306 is to further reduce the distance x that the ball joint 300 needs to be rotated in order to move the rear opening edge 304 beyond the front wall 410 and, thus, be removed from the socket insert 140 than when compared to a configuration without the tapered chamfer 306. In alternative embodiments (not shown), the elbow removal notch 430 may be replaced by a chamfered or scalloped section on the edge formed between the inner wall 420 and the front wall 410 of the socket insert 140. The chamfered edge can have the effect of reducing the distance x that the ball joint needs to rotate in order to be removed from the socket insert. In yet another alternative embodiment, the geometry of the elbow removal notch 430 may extend beyond the socket insert 140 and into the mask frame 120.
The alternative embodiment of an angled edge 304 for a truncated ball functions in a similar manner to that described with respect to
The elbow 130 and the socket insert 140 are generally configured such that the elbow 130 can only be removed from the socket insert 140 when oriented to a predetermined rotational position. As shown in
The single removal position and blended geometry of the elbow removal notch 430 dictate that the action of removing the elbow may not be obvious to all users, meaning that a user may need to be taught how to remove the elbow. This may be beneficial in some situations, as it may be desirable for only certain user groups to know how to remove the elbow. For instance, removal of the elbow for cleaning and sterilization is particularly important in environments where a single mask may be used for multiple users, such as in sleep labs; whereas it is not as important in home use environments where the mask has only a single user. Therefore, it may be desirable for doctors or sleep lab technicians to know how to remove the elbow, but not the direct user of the mask. In alternative embodiments, the geometry may be such that it is obvious how to remove the elbow.
Forehead Piece:As shown in
The front portion 600 comprises a female frame connector 630. The female frame connector 630 is configured to connect to the male forehead piece connector 230 of the mask frame 120 and comprises an internal cavity 640. The internal cavity 640 is shown in more detail in
In some configurations, the forehead piece 170 is provided in two or more sizes, as shown in
In other configurations, the forehead piece 170 and the mask frame 120 may be configured for a one time, permanent connection (e.g., a barbed or ramped protrusion and notch). Such a configuration allows for a common mask frame that is connectable to forehead pieces 170 of various shapes and sizes.
Headgear:The headgear 150 is configured to apply retaining forces to the mask frame 120 such that the respiratory mask 100 is held in place on a user's face and a substantially airtight seal is achieved. The headgear 150 comprises a pair of forehead straps 152, a top or crown strap 154, a pair of lower or chin straps 156 and a rear headgear portion 158, as shown in
The length of the forehead straps 152 and chin straps 156 are secured by hook and loop fastener tabs 710 located at the ends of the straps. The tabs 710 comprise the hook component of hook and loop fastener material. The outer surface 720 is configured to have a surface finish that is suitable for the hook material to attach to. The forehead straps 152, the crown strap 154 and the chin straps 156 are made from a material, such as Breath-o-prene™, which comprises layers of differing fabrics including textiles and foams. Breath-o-prene™ is made from polyurethane foam with an outer layer of nylon and spandex. The materials are heat laminated together. Each of the straps can be made from a material with differing physical properties. For example, the crown strap 154 can be stretchable while the chin straps 156 are substantially non-stretch by comparison.
The rear headgear portion 158 comprises a spacer fabric pad 730 and a lower back strap 740. The spacer fabric pad 730 comprises a substantially rectangular portion with scalloped edges and the corners cut off. The cut off corners are configured to attach to the forehead straps 152 and the lower back strap 740.
The present headgear configuration incorporates the spacer fabric pad 730 in order to provide a light weight, breathable and cushioned region at the rear of the user's head. These qualities are desirable as they may improve the user's comfort when wearing the headgear. Spacer fabric has an untidy edge finish that tends to fray when cut. The present configuration of the spacer fabric pad 730 provides a tidy edge finish by hiding the raw edges on the inside of the pad. The seam 736 may also help to reduce or eliminate the likelihood of fraying.
The lower back strap 740 extends along the bottom edge 739 of the spacer fabric pad. The lower back strap 740 is made of a material that is less stretchy than the spacer fabric pad 730. The lower back strap 740 provides structural reinforcement to the spacer fabric pad 730 to reduce or eliminate the likelihood of excessive stretching that may cause the mask 100 to become displaced from a user's face during use.
Cushion Module:As described above, the cushion module 110 is configured to substantially surround a user's nose and/or mouth and includes a seal 180 and a seal housing 190. The seal housing 190 provides a support structure of sorts for the respiratory mask assembly 100 in general and for the mask cushion or seal 180 more specifically. Although the respiratory mask 100 disclosed herein comprises a separable cushion module 110 and frame 120, in some configurations these components can be combined into a single structure. Accordingly, although described as a portion of the cushion module 110 herein, the seal 180 could also comprise a portion of a mask frame. Other suitable interface arrangements for defining a breathing chamber, supporting the seal and allowing connection of a breathing gases conduit and headgear (if desired) can also be used.
In some configurations, multiple cushion modules 110 are available for a given respiratory mask 100. For example, cushion modules 110 can vary from one another in size such that a suitable one of the available cushion modules 110 can be selected for a particular user. However, cushion modules 110 could vary relative to one another with respect to characteristics other than size in addition or in the alternative.
Cushion module 110A is relatively smaller in at least one dimension (e.g., seal height) than cushion modules 110B and 110C. Similarly, cushion module 110B is relatively smaller in at least one dimension (e.g., seal height) than cushion module 110C. Cushion modules 110A, 110B and 110C can be referred to as a size “small,” “medium,” and “large” modules, respectively. In some configurations, additional modules 110 can be provided, which can fall on either end of the illustrated modules 110A, 110B, 110C or could have at least one dimension that places the additional module(s) between the illustrated modules 110A, 110B, 110C in a relative sense. In some configurations, a lesser number (e.g., two) of cushion modules 110 are provided. As described herein, a reference to a general cushion module 110 can apply to any of the particular modules 110A, 110B, 110C. When discussing the modules 110A, 110B, 110C relative to one another, the specific reference numbers 110A, 110B, 110C generally are used. One or both of the seal 180 and the seal housing 190 can vary between the various size modules 110A, 110B, 110C. In the illustrated arrangement, both the seal 180 and the seal housing 190 vary in size between the various size modules 110A, 110B, 110C.
The seal housing 190 can be formed from any suitable material. In some configurations, the seal housing 190 is formed from a fairly rigid material. In some configurations, the seal housing 190 is formed from a plastic material, such as a polycarbonate material. In some configurations, the seal 180 is overmolded onto the seal housing 190 and, in some configurations, the seal 180 can be overmolded directly onto the seal housing 190, which can comprise chemical or mechanical overmolding, for example.
In some configurations, the seal housing 190 comprises a substantial portion of a forward wall of the cushion module 110. Such an arrangement provides an advantageous amount of support to the seal 180. For example, the seal housing 190 comprises a substantial portion of an oral portion of the forward wall of the cushion module 110. In the illustrated configuration, the seal housing 190 sweeps rearward from a central portion toward opposing side portions. The central portion contains the aperture or opening 194 for allowing a flow of supplied breathing gases to enter an interior of the cushion module 110. The opening 194 can allow the cushion module 110 to be assembled to the frame 120, the mask elbow 130 or another suitable structure. A width of the seal housing 190 can comprise a significant portion of the overall width of the oral portion of the cushion module 110, such as at least about three-quarters of the overall width of the oral portion of the mask assembly 100. Such an arrangement of the seal housing 190 can provide a desired amount of support to lateral portions of the seal 180. In some configurations, the seal housing 190 could be minimal, such as an annular support ring or frame, for example.
The seal 180 is designed to seal against the face of the user. The seal 180 preferably is formed of a soft material, such as silicone, for example but without limitation. In some configurations, at least portions of the seal 180 can be textured to improve comfort to the user. For example, in some configurations, at least portions of the mold used to form the illustrated seal 180 can be bead blasted to provide a surface texture in at least the regions of the seal 180 that will contact the skin of the user. Other techniques for texturing one or more surface of the seal 180 can be used. In some configurations, it may be desirable to avoid surface texturing and provide at least the face-contacting surfaces of the seal 180 with a smooth surface texture, which may increase grip of the seal 180 on the user's face and improve sealing characteristics.
As described above, the illustrated cushion module 110 comprises a nasal-oral or full face mask. Accordingly, with reference to
The illustrated seal 180 includes an upper portion 1002 and a lower portion 1004. The upper portion 1002 comprises a nasal portion of the opening 1000 that accommodates the user's nose. The lower portion 1004 comprises an oral portion of the opening 1000 that accommodates the user's mouth. Thus, the lower portion 1004 is significantly wider than the upper portion 1002. Together, on a proximal side of the cushion module 110, the upper portion 1002 and the lower portion 1004 combine to define a portion or an entirety of a face contacting surface 106. The face contacting surface 106 is configured to underlie a lower lip of the user, extend along the outside of the mouth, extend upward along the cheekbones and extend across the bridge of the nose of the user. Thus, the illustrated face contacting surface 106 defines a generally tear-drop shaped opening 1000. When the cushion module 110 is seated on the face of the user, the face contacting surface 106 will lie over the bridge of the nose, the cheekbones, the outside of the mouth and below the lower lip of the user. With a supply of positive pressure air, the seal 180 will balloon and seal against the face of the user to reduce or eliminate the likelihood of leakage between the face contacting surface 106 and the face of the user.
The illustrated seal 180 is a full face seal that is configured for similar applications and/or user preferences as the respiratory mask sold by the Applicant, Fisher & Paykel Healthcare, under the trademark Simplus®. While the Simplus® mask is a very successful full face respiratory mask product that provides excellent sealing characteristics and comfort for a wide variety of facial geometries, the illustrated seal 180 includes features or modifications relative to the Simplus® mask that provide improved performance for at least some applications or facial geometries. Thus, certain features of the present seal 180 are described in relation to the seal of the Simplus® mask.
With reference to
In general, Table 1 illustrates that, in the seal 180, sections 1 and 2 are relatively close in width. In some configurations, sections 1 and 2 can have the same width. Section 3 is larger than one or both of sections 1 and 2. In some configurations, sections 1 and 2 can be about 75% of the width of section 3. In some configurations, sections 1 and 2 are at least 70% of the width of section 3. Seal 180 has less variation in width in the upper portion 1002 or at least at sections 1, 2 and 3 relative to the Simplus® seal. In some configurations, as described below, sections 1 and 2 of the seal 180 have a larger width than comparable sections of the Simplus® seal, while section 3 of the seal 180 and the comparable section of the Simplus® seal are relatively similar in width.
One or both of sections 4 and 5 of the seal 180 have a width that is less than a width of one or more of sections 1-3. In the illustrated arrangement, both of sections 4 and 5 have a width that is less than a width of section 3. One or both of sections 4 and 5 of the seal 180 can have a width that is less than a width of one or more of sections 1-3. In the illustrated arrangement, both of sections 4 and 5 have a width that is greater than both of the widths of sections 1 and 2. The width of section 5 in the illustrated configuration is slightly greater, but similar to, the width of sections 1 and 2. The widths of sections 4 and 5 of the seal 180 are relatively similar to the widths at comparable locations of the Simplus® seal. In some cases, the widths of one or both of sections 4 and 5 are identical (e.g., size large) between the seal 180 and the Simplus® seal or the widths of seal 180 are slightly less than the widths of comparable sections of the Simplus® seal (e.g., size small). In size medium, the width of section 5 is identical, while the width of the seal 180 is slightly less than the width of the Simplus® seal at section 4.
With reference to
Table 2 illustrates that the width 1012 is less than about 12.5 percent, 12 percent or 11.5 percent of the width 1014 in all sizes of the seal 180. In some configurations, the width 1012 can be equal to about 12.5 percent or equal to about 12 percent of the width 1014 in one or more sizes of the seal 180. The width 1012 of the illustrated seal 180 can be equal to about 11.5 percent of the width 1014. The width 1012 of the illustrated seal 180 can be between about 11.3-11.5 percent of the width 1014 for one or more sizes of the seal 180. The absolute value of the width 1012 can be equal to or less than about 12 mm, equal to or less than about 11.5 mm or equal to or less than about 11 mm regardless of the width 1014. Such arrangements provide a desirable level of sealing for a variety of nasal sizes and geometries. In comparison, the widths of the Simplus® seal corresponding to width 1012 are 12.5 mm and about 12.9-13 percent of the width corresponding to width 1014.
With reference to
With reference to
The illustrated seal 180 of the cushion module 110 comprises a fairly complex range and configuration of thicknesses, as shown in
With reference to
In some configurations, the seal 180 also or alternatively includes thickened nose pads 1032. The thickened nose pads 1032 preferably are positioned on each lateral side of the upper portion 1002 of the opening 1000. Preferably, the thickened nose pads 1032 extend along at least a portion of the face contacting surface 106 of the seal 180 but do not extend in a lateral direction all the way to the edge that defines the opening 1000. That is, innermost edges of the nose pads 1032 terminate prior to the edge that defines the opening 1000. In some configurations, the thickened nose pads 1032 are created by thickened regions of the seal 180 wherein the additional material extends inwardly into the interior of the cushion module 110. The thickened nose pads 1032 can have laterally inward edges 1034 that are curved (e.g., U-shaped) with centers of the curved portions being positioned closer to the opening 1000 than upper and lower portions of the curved edge 1034.
The illustrated seal 180 comprises a bottom or chin region 1040. The chin region 1040 in the illustrated seal 180 extends along at least a portion of the opening 1000. Preferably, the chin region 1040 extends along at least a lower, central portion of the opening 1000 that is positioned below the lower lip of the user on or near the user's chin. The chin region 1040 can extend along an entirety or a substantial entirety of a height of the lower section of the face contacting surface 106 of the seal 180. In other words, the chin region 1040 can extend from a lower end of the outer edge 1010 to a lower end of the edge that defines the opening 1000. The chin region 1040 can extend along a substantial portion of a width of the seal 180, such as at least about one-half or more of a maximum width of the opening 1000. The illustrated chin region 1040 is centered in a lateral direction of the seal 180.
The chin region 1040 can be a relatively soft region that contacts the area below the lower lip of the user and can allow the seal 180 to accommodate a range of chin geometries. Accordingly, the chin region 1040 can have a thinner cross-section than other regions of the seal 180. In some configurations, the chin region 1040 has the smallest thickness of the seal 180, which may be equal to a thickness of other regions. For example, a portion or an entirety of the chin region 1040 can have a thickness of about 0.3 mm. In some configurations, the thickness of the chin region 1040 can be less than 0.3 mm. For example, the thickness could be as low as about 0.15 mm.
The seal 180 can also include a top or nasal bridge region 1042 located at the top center of the seal 180 and extending along the top of the opening 1000. Similar to the chin region 1040, the nasal bridge region 1042 can extend along an entirety or a substantial entirety of a height of the top section of the face contacting surface 106 of the seal 180. The nasal bridge region 1042 can extend in a lateral direction a distance about equal to the width 1012 (
Given a desire to gently seal against the bridge of the nose, the nasal bridge region 1042 in the illustrated configuration has a fairly small thickness. In some configurations, the nasal bridge region 1042 has the smallest thickness of the seal 180, which can be equal to the thickness of other portions of the seal 180. For example, a portion or an entirety of the nasal bridge region 1042 can have a thickness that is equal to the thickness of the chin region 1040. In some configurations, the thickness of a portion or an entirety of the nasal bridge region 1042 is about 0.3 mm. In some configurations, the thickness of the entirety the nasal bridge region 1042 is about 0.3 mm. In some configurations, the thickness of the nasal bridge region 1042 can be less than 0.3 mm. For example, the thickness could be as low as about 0.15 mm. However, it has been determined that lower thicknesses can result in or increase the likelihood of creasing of the nasal bridge region 1042 for some facial geometries and/or under some operational gas pressures. Keeping the thickness at or above about 0.3 mm in a substantial portion or an entirety of the nasal bridge region 1042 can reduce the incidence of creasing over a substantial range of operational pressures, which may comprise an entire range of normal operating pressures.
The illustrated seal 180 also includes lateral portions 1044 located along or adjacent to lateral sides of the opening 1000. In the illustrated arrangement, the lateral portions 1044 are elongate strips that extend along vertical center portions of each lateral side of the opening 1000. The lateral portions 1044 extend generally from an upper end of the lower portion 1004 of the seal 180 to a lower end of the upper portion 1002 of the seal 180. The lateral portions 1044 can be located on the seal 180 to extend along the user's cheeks beside the user's nose.
Preferably, to conform to a wide variety of facial geometries and maintain a seal in the present of creases, lines or wrinkles that may be present on the user's cheeks and/or caused by facial movements (e.g., smiling), the lateral portions 1044 preferably have a relatively low thickness. For example, in some configurations, the lateral portions 1044 have the smallest thickness of the seal 180, which can be equal to the thickness of other portions of the seal 180. For example, a portion or an entirety of each of the lateral portions 1044 can have a thickness that is equal to the thickness of one or both of the chin region 1040 and the nasal bridge region 1042. In some configurations, the thickness of a portion or an entirety of each of the lateral portions 1044 is about 0.3 mm. In some configurations, the thickness of the entireties of the lateral portions 1044 is about 0.3 mm. In some configurations, the thickness of a portion or an entirety of each of the lateral portions 1044 can be less than 0.3 mm. For example, the thickness could be as low as about 0.15 mm.
The illustrated seal 180 includes outer peripheral portions 1046 that extend along lateral portions of an outer periphery of the seal 180. To reduce the incidence of wrinkling of at least some of the face contacting regions of the seal 180 during use, it has been found that the outer peripheral portions 1046 of the seal 180 should be fairly rigid. In the illustrated arrangement, the outer peripheral portions 1046 extend along the generally vertically extending, laterally outward portions of the face contacting surface 106 of the seal 180.
In the illustrated arrangement, the outer peripheral portions 1046 extend along a substantial portion of a height of the lower portion 1004 of the opening 1000 each lateral side of the opening 1000. In some configurations, the outer peripheral portions 1046 extend along an entire height of the lower portion 1004 of the opening 1000. Upper ends of the outer peripheral portions 1046 can extend at least to about a vertical location at which the opening 1000 narrows significantly to form the upper portion 1002 that accommodates a bridge of the user's nose. Lower ends of the outer peripheral portions 1046 can extend toward, to or below a lower end of the opening 1000. The chin region 1040 can be positioned between lower ends of the outer peripheral portions 1046. Each of the outer peripheral portions 1046 and the chin region 1040 can define a portion of a lower edge of the opening 1000.
In the illustrated arrangement, upper portions of the outer peripheral portions 1046 are spaced outwardly from the edge that defines the opening 1000. In some configurations, the outward spacing of the upper portions of the outer peripheral portions 1046 accommodates the lateral portions 1044 between the opening 1000 and the upper portions of the outer peripheral portions 1046. In some configurations, lower portions of the outer peripheral portions 1046 extend close to the opening 1000 compared to upper portions of the outer peripheral portions 1046. In the illustrated configuration, lower portions of the outer peripheral portions 1046 extend substantially to or to the edge that defines the opening 1000.
The relatively increased thickness of the outer peripheral portions 1046 can assist in resisting or preventing collapse of the seal 180 in the absence of significant internal gas pressure to facilitate fitment and provide feedback to the user, such as in response to applied forces (e.g., headgear forces). The outer peripheral portions 1046 can help maintain the curved shape of the lateral sides of the seal 180 and/or help maintain a separation between a rear wall of the seal 180 (defining the face contacting surface 106) and a front end or wall of the seal 180, seal housing 190 or other structure immediately forward of the face contacting surface 106. In some configurations, the thickness of a portion or an entirety of the outer peripheral portions can be between about 1.0 mm and about 2.0 mm. In the illustrated configuration, a portion or an entirety of the outer peripheral portions 1046 preferably have a thickness of about 1.5 mm. The thicknesses of the outer peripheral portions 1046 can be consistent or varied.
As described above, the seal 180 can include thickened nose pads 1032. The thickened nose pads 1032 preferably are positioned on each lateral side of the upper portion 1002 of the opening 1000. In the illustrated configuration, the nose pads 1032 intersect the outer peripheral portions 1046, such that a portion of the outer peripheral portions 1046 is located both above and below the nose pads 1032. Preferably, the thickened nose pads 1032 extend along at least a portion of the face contacting surface 106 of the seal 180 but do not extend all the way to the edge that defines the opening 1000. That is, a laterally inward edge 1034 of each of the nose pads 1032 terminates prior to the edge that defines the opening 1000. Laterally outward edges of the nose pads 1032 can extend substantially to or to the outer edge 1010 of the face contacting surface 106 of the seal 180. The laterally inward edges 1034 can be curved with centers of the curved portions being positioned closer to the opening 1000 than upper and lower portions of the curved edge 1034. In other words, the curved edges 1034 can be generally U-shaped with the bottom of the U-shape being positioned closer to the opening 1000 and the top of the U-shape being positioned further from the opening 1000.
With reference to
It has been discovered that the nose pads 1032 should be relatively thick to improve sealing performance of the seal 180, but not so thick as to cause discomfort. In some configurations, the nose pads 1032 are among the thickest or are the thickest portions of the face contacting surface 106 of the seal 180. In some configurations, the nose pads 1032 are at least as thick as the outer peripheral portions 1046. In some configurations, the nose pads 1032 are thicker than the outer peripheral portions 1046. In some configurations, the nose pads 1032 are between about 1.5 mm and 2.0 mm in thickness. In some configurations, the nose pads 1032 are about 1.8 mm in thickness.
With reference to
In some configurations, the thin edge section 1030 has a thickness that is equal to or less than about 0.6 mm or equal to or less than about 0.4 mm. In some configurations, at least the first 0.5 mm extending from the edge that defines the opening 1000 is less than about 0.4 mm in thickness. The continuous thin internal edge section 1030 can vary in thickness in a direction extending inwardly from the edge that defines opening 1000 or along its length within these desired thickness ranges. It has been discovered by the present inventors that providing the continuous thin internal edge section 1030 improves the sealing characteristics of the seal 180 for at least some conditions or facial geometries.
The seal 180 can have other portions outside of those described above. For example, the seal 180 can have one or more transition portions 1048 in the area(s) between the above-described portions. The transition portion 1048 can be referred to in the singular herein; however, the transition portion 1048 is not necessarily a single contiguous region, but may comprise several discrete or non-contiguous regions. The transition portion 1048 can define a transitioning thickness between any one or more (including all) of the chin region 1040, nasal bridge region 1042, lateral portions 1044, the outer peripheral portions 1046 and the nose pads 1032. The transition portion 1048 can define a thickness that extends away from or is positioned or transitions between two regions in any suitable manner, such as a gradual or abrupt transition, for example. A transition in thickness can occur within the transition portion 1048 or along an edge of the transition portion 1048, for example. In the illustrated configuration, the outer peripheral portions 1046 are generally surrounded by the transition portion 1048. The chin region 1040 can be separated from the outer peripheral portions 1046 by a transition portion 1048. The nasal bridge region 1042 can be separated from the outer peripheral portions 1046 and/or the nose pads 1032 by a transition portion 1048. Similarly, the lateral portions 1044 can be separated from the outer peripheral portions 1046 by a transition portion 1048. Other configurations also are possible.
In at least some configurations, the upper portion 1002 of the seal 180 is designed to roll over onto an outer surface of the cushion module 110, which allows the nasal bridge region 1042 to move in a forward direction relative to a lower portion 1004 of the seal 180. With reference to
With reference to
In some configurations, the band 1060 can be a separately formed component that is at least partially encased by the material of the seal 180. For example, the band 1060 can be a comolded plastic component or the seal 180 can be overmolded onto the band 1060. In some configurations, the band 1060 can be defined by a portion of the upper portion 1002 that has enhanced stiffness relative to surrounding regions. For example, but without limitation, the band 1060 can be defined by a portion of increased thickness, a portion of differing materials or material properties that result in increased stiffness or the like. In the illustrated arrangement, the band 1060 comprises a region of increased thickness of the base material of the seal 180, similar to the differing regions of thickness described above with reference to
In some configurations, the band 1060 extends along at least a portion of the upper portion 1002 of the seal 180. The upper portion 1002 of the seal 180 comprises an apex 1070 (
In some configurations, at least a portion of the first side wall 1072 and at least a portion of the second side wall 1074 are reinforced by the band 1060. In the illustrated configuration, the band 1060 reinforces at least a portion of the first wall 1072 and at least a portion of the second wall 1074. In some configurations, the band 1060 reinforces at least a portion of the first wall 1072, at least a portion of the second wall 1074 and the apex 1070.
With reference to
With reference to
The front wall 1080 and the top wall 1082 extend downwardly from the apex 1070 along the first and second walls 1072, 1074 (
In some configurations, the connection portion 1084 and a forward edge of the band 1060 converge in a direction from the apex 1070 to the shelf 1086. In the illustrated arrangement, the connection portion 1084 and the forward edge of the band 1060 remain somewhat spaced from one another at or near the shelf 1086. From a side profile view, the reduced stiffness region 172 defines a generally triangular or wedge shape, as illustrated in
In some configurations, the region of reduced stiffness or rolling portion 172 is located between and can be bounded by a first boundary 1090 and a second boundary 1092, wherein the first boundary 1090 and the second boundary 1092 have an increased stiffness relative to the region of reduced stiffness 172. In the illustrated configuration, for example, the first boundary 1090 is defined by or alongside a portion of the band 1060 (e.g., the forward edge of the band 1060) while the second boundary 1092 is defined by or alongside the connecting portion 1084 (e.g., origination of the front wall 1080) or a bend or transition between the front wall 1080 and the top wall 1082. In some configurations, the second boundary 1092 can be defined by or alongside an edge of the more rigid seal housing 190. In some configurations, the second boundary 1092 can be defined along a portion of the seal 180 positioned between the seal housing 190 and the region of reduced stiffness 172. A hinge axis H for movement of the upper portion 1002 of the seal 180 is defined by or is located near an intersection of the first boundary 1090 and the second boundary 1092, or projections thereof.
With reference to
In at least some configurations in which multiple size cushion modules 110 or seal 180 are provided, it can be desirable for the regions of reduced stiffness 172 of the different sizes to have different arrangements, properties or dimensions from one another. For example, the regions of reduced stiffness 172 can define different angles between the boundaries 1090, 1092 in a relaxed position between the various sizes. In addition, or in the alternative, the regions of reduced stiffness 172 can define different heights of the front wall 1080 (or different total lengths of the front wall 1080 and the top wall 1082) between the various sizes.
With reference to
For example,
In some configurations, the small seal 180A defines an angle between the boundaries 1090, 1092A at a relaxed position of the upper portion 1002 of at least about 30 degrees. In some configurations, the angle is about 34 degrees. In some configurations, the medium seal 180B defines an angle between the boundaries 1090, 1092B at a relaxed position of the upper portion 1002 of between about 25 degrees and about 35 degrees. In some configurations, the angle is about 29 degrees. In some configurations, the large seal 180C defines an angle between the boundaries 1090, 1092C at a relaxed position of the upper portion 1002 of between about 20 degrees and about 30 degrees. In some configurations, the angle is about 27 degrees. However, other configurations are also possible. By way of comparison, the angle of the Simplus® seal is approximately 16 degrees for all seal sizes.
The reduced stiffness region 172 and/or upper portion 1002 of the seal 180 can comprise features that facilitate desirable rolling of the upper portion 1002 of the seal 180. For example, with reference to
In some configurations, the thickness of one or both of the front wall 1080 and the top wall 1082 gradually or progressively increases in a direction from the connecting portion 1084 toward the band 1060. In the illustrated arrangement, the wall thickness increases progressively from at or near a lower end of the front wall 1080 or the connection portion 1084 to at or near the band 1060 in both the front wall 1080 and the top wall 1082. That is, the rate of change in the wall thickness is consistent between the front wall 1080 and the top wall 1082, despite the transition from one to the other. Such an arrangement allows controlled deformation of the reduced stiffness region 172, such as by allowing the bend point to move in a forward to backward direction as thinner material buckles or bends prior to thicker material buckling or bending. In other configurations, the thickness increase is different between the front wall 1080 and the top wall 1082. For example, the thickness could progressively increase in the front wall 1080 and remain constant or increase at a different rate in the top wall 1082. In other configurations, the thickness of the top wall 1082 could progressively increase and the thickness of the front wall 1080 could be constant or could increase at a different rate than the top wall 1082.
With reference to
With reference to
A vertical distance or dimension 1204 between the points 1200, 1202 is a significant factor in determining fit of the seal 180 or cushion module 110 to a user. For example, the dimension 1204 is closely related to the Sublabiale-Sellion (SS) dimensions or lengths of the users for which the seal 180 or cushion module 110 will provide an appropriate or desirable fit. In at least some configurations, a substantial difference exists between the dimension 1204 of the seal 180 in the neutral position and the depressed position, which can be a fully depressed position. For example, the dimension 1204 can vary by more than 2 mm between the neutral and the depressed position. In some configurations, the dimension 1204 varies by at least about 4 mm, at least about 5 mm or at least about 6 mm between the neutral and the depressed position. In at least one size or embodiment of the seal 180, the dimension 1204 can vary from about 90 mm to about 84 mm between the neutral and the depressed positions. In other words, the variation of the dimension 1204 is about 6 mm. For the sake of comparison, the Simplus® cushion module varies by 2 mm between a neutral position and a fully depressed position (from about 91 mm to about 89 mm, respectively).
The variation in the dimension 1204 can allow a particular size or embodiment of the seal 180 (or cushion module 110) to fit a wider range of users. For example, the variation in the dimension 1204 can allow a particular size or embodiment of the seal 180 (or cushion module 110) to be deformed or depressed until the dimension 1204 is appropriately sized for the particular user's facial geometry (e.g., SS length). The increased variation in the dimension 1204 can be provided by the greater angular displacement of the upper portion 1002 of the seal 180 as a result of the above-described rolling action, by the increased height of the front wall 1080 or increased length of the reduced stiffness region 172, by other factors or by any combination thereof. In some configurations, a greater variation in the dimension 1204 can be provided, such as at least about 8 mm, at least about 10 mm, at least about 12 mm or more. In some cases, a greater variation is preferred, so long as other performance criteria are not impacted to an undesirable degree. In some configurations, the variation can depend on or vary with the size of the seal 180 or cushion module 110, such as with larger sizes having a greater variation in the dimension 1204 than smaller sizes. For example, the variation can be a percentage of the dimension 1204, such as any percentage covered by the values or ranges disclosed above. In some configurations, the variation in the dimension 1204 can be at least about 5 percent, at least about 6 percent, at least about 6 and ⅔ percent, at least about 8 percent, at least about 10 percent or more between the neutral position and the depressed position.
In an alternative embodiment, the cushion module 2010 may include multiple rolling portions to accommodate differing facial geometries. For comparison,
In contrast,
As illustrated in
The cushion module 2110 has a first thickened region 2130 which defines the intersection between the first rolling portion 2112 and an upper portion of a sealing surface 2118. A second thickened region 2132 defines the intersection between the first and second rolling portions 2112, 2114. The first and second thickened regions 2130, 2132 provide reinforcing structure to prevent the first and second rolling portions 2112, 2114 from collapsing when rolled. Accordingly, the first thickened region 2130 isolates the sealing surface 2118 from the rolling portions 2112, 2114 to substantially inhibit or prevent leaks from occurring when the seal is rolled.
The following disclosure is described in relation to nasal or direct nasal masks; however, it is to be understood that alternative embodiments are possible for other mask configurations. It is known that some direct nasal masks include a short tube component that forms a flexible intermediate connection between the respiratory mask 3120 and an air supply hose 3110, such as the Pilairo™ by Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Ltd. This tube provides a means of at least partially decoupling any forces that the air supply hose 3110 may apply to the respiratory mask 3120. The tube is generally much lighter and more flexible than the air supply hose 3110 and thus applies lower forces to the respiratory mask 3120. This can be particularly beneficial for direct nasal, and in some cases nasal, masks, because they are generally smaller and lighter, thereby making them more likely to be dislodged from a user's face if a force is applied to them. Dislodgement of the respiratory mask 3120 from the user's face may result in the efficacy of the therapy being compromised. The inclusion of a tube between the air supply hose 3110 and the respiratory mask 3120 means that forces induced by the air supply hose 3110 have to be translated through the tube in order to affect the interaction between the respiratory mask 3120 and the user. An intermediary tube such as this is utilized as a component of the bias flow venting system of the present disclosure.
The bias flow venting system 3210 comprises the tube 3260 and an annular array of radially aligned exhaust holes 3280. The tube 3260 comprises wall 3262 and a bead 3264. The wall 3262 is configured to be substantially cylindrical and comprises a thin and flexible film that can be made from any suitable thermoplastic, such as but not limited to polyurethane Elastollan 1180A. The bead 3264 is configured to provide structure to the wall 3262 that reduces or eliminates the likelihood of crushing and occlusion of the tube 3260. The bead 3264 extends along the length of the tube 3260 in a helical configuration and has a cross-sectional profile that is raised from the outer surface 3300 of the wall 3262, as shown in
The exhaust holes 3280 are formed within the bead 3264 and are spaced radially or helically around the perimeter of the tube 3260 at regular intervals. The exhaust holes 3280 are configured to provide a path for air to be exhausted from within the respiratory mask 3200. The exhaustion of air from within the mask 3200 allows CO2 to be flushed, thus preventing rebreathing of the CO2 by the user. The radial alignment of the exhaust holes 3280 allows exhausted air to be dispersed over a range of 360°.
The exhaust holes 3280 can have any suitable cross-sectional geometry, including, but not limited to, circular, elliptical, polygonal or asymmetric. In an embodiment where the exhaust holes 3280 are circular, the hole diameter can be at least approximately 0.1 mm and/or less than or equal to approximately 1.5 mm Diameters of less than 0.5 mm may be advantageous in reducing noise generated by any exhausted air. In a preferred embodiment, the exhaust holes 3280 have a diameter of approximately 0.4 mm. The exhaust holes 3280 are formed by laser drilling or cutting, which allows for the radial alignment of the exhaust holes and the formation of holes with small diameters (i.e. less than 0.5 mm). The diameter and spacing of the exhaust holes 3280 may be dependent on the total number of holes required to effectively flush CO2 from within the respiratory mask 3200. The exhaust holes 3280 can be spaced at a maximum distance from each other that allows the total number of required exhaust holes to fit within the tube 3260. In some embodiments (not shown), the exhaust holes 3280 may be spaced along only a portion of the tube length. For example, the exhaust holes 3280 may only be positioned on a bottom portion of the tube 3260 such that the exhausted air exits the tube 3260 away from the head of the user. Accordingly, noise from exhausted air is less likely to disturb the user due to the increased distance between the user's head and the exhaust holes 3280. In some such embodiments (not shown), the exhaust holes 3280 can be spaced at a maximum distance from each other that allows the total number of exhaust holes to fit within the portion of the length of the tube. In other alternative embodiments (not shown), the exhaust holes may be spaced along a length of the tube 3260 at irregular intervals. For example, the spacing between the exhaust holes 3280 may increase or decrease along the length of the tube 3260 depending on airflow and noise requirements.
In alternative embodiments (not shown), variations of the presently disclosed bias flow venting system may be incorporated into tubes of different configurations. A wide range of plastic tube configurations are available in industry, including but not limited to plane cylindrical tubes and corrugated tubes. Exhaust holes may be incorporated into any appropriate part of the tube structure.
As shown in
As shown in
The annular component 4200 may be formed as a separate component and then attached to an aperture in the seal housing 4140. The connection between the annular component 4200 and the seal housing 4140 may be achieved by an interference type snap-fit geometry, gluing, welding or any other appropriate connection process. An interference type snap-fit may be configured to allow adjustability between the annular component 4200 and the seal housing 4140 by providing discrete positions of adjustment. Alternatively, the annular component 4200 and the seal housing 4140 can be molded as an integral component. Alternatively, the mask frame 4120 may be a common size in which cushion modules 4110 of various sizes (e.g., small, medium, large) may be connected.
The annular component 4200 is configured to include an array of exhaust holes 4220. The exhaust holes 4220 can be radially spaced around the perimeter of the annular component 4200. The radial placement of the exhaust holes results in the exhausted air being dispersed around 360° of the annular component 4200, as can be seen in
In one non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the exhaust holes are preferably formed by laser drilling. Laser drilling allows the radial hole arrangement and a small hole diameter be formed. The hole diameter may be approximately 0.4 mm. As used herein in connection with dimensions, the term approximately should be understood to mean within standard manufacturing tolerances or deviations that result and/or can be expected during manufacturing. In addition, the term approximately can extend up to and including dimensions that would round to the stated value. With this said, laser drilling the holes may provide a tighter tolerance on the hole diameter than traditional forming methods, such as molding. Small hole diameters may be beneficial to reduce draft and noise. Alternatively, traditional molding techniques can be used to form the exhaust holes 4220 in the annular component 4200. The number of holes can be determined by the flow rate desired to effectively flush CO2 from within the breathing chamber 4210 of the mask.
The annular component 4200 and the exhaust holes 4220 can be surrounded by a shroud 4160. The shroud 4160 can be an integrally formed portion of the mask frame 4120 and can extend radially from the user end (in use) of the air supply connector 4130. The shroud 4160 has a substantially conical geometry. The shroud 4160 creates a plenum chamber 4230 between the mask frame 4120 and the front wall 4240 of the seal housing 4140. A radial vent path 4250 can be formed between the outer perimeter of the shroud 4160 and the front wall 4240. The radial vent path 4250 allows the exhausted air to remain dispersed over 360°, which can reduce detectable draft.
Air can be exhausted through the exhaust holes 4220 into the plenum chamber 4230 formed by the shroud 4160, the annular component 4200, and the front wall 4240 of the seal housing 4140. As the exhausted air passes through the exhaust holes 4220, the exhausted air is accelerated. However, routing of the exhausted air into the plenum chamber 4230 prior to exiting through the vent path 4250 causes the exhausted air to be slowed down and redirected. The space of the plenum chamber forms an expansion chamber that allows the energy present in the exhausted air to dissipate before it exits the shroud 4160 via the vent path 4250. This enables the fluid velocity of air passing through the exhaust holes 4220 to be reduced and the fluid pressure to be increased, which results in the reduction or prevention of entrainment of atmospheric air. The reduction in fluid velocity and entrainment substantially reduces or prevents detection of drafts by the user.
The exhaust flow rate from the mask is determined by the size and number of exhaust holes 4220 rather than the cross-sectional area of the vent path 4250. The size of the vent path can be altered to affect the velocity of exhausted air and thus the draft and noise generated by the exhausted air. For example, the vent path 4250 may be widened or narrowed by adjusting the position of the annular component 4200 with respect to the seal housing 4140 to vary the distance between the front wall and the shroud 4160. As mentioned above, discrete positions of adjustment may be provided by the interference type snap-fit between the annular component 4200 and the seal housing 4140 such that the size of the vent path 4250 may be altered.
Additional non-limiting exemplary embodiments of shroud geometry can be seen in
In other non-limiting exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure the exhaust holes and shroud may be positioned on different parts of a respiratory mask. For example the holes and shroud may be part of an elbow or swivel conduit connector. Elbows and/or swivels are commonly used in respiratory masks to provide an intermediate connection between an air supply conduit and the mask. In the non-limiting exemplary embodiment of
Like the previous embodiment, the exhaust holes 4610 can be positioned radially on an annular surface. The exhaust holes 4610 and shroud 4620 extend only part way around the surface of the elbow. The holes can be arranged to disperse the exhausted air over an angle of around 120°. The shroud 4620 extends slightly beyond the edges of the outer holes. The shroud 4620 can have a partially biconical geometry, wherein the shroud forms a segment of a bicone that has been truncated at both of the apexes. The truncated edges 4630 of the biconical shroud 4620 are attached to the cylindrical elbow 4600 on either side of the exhaust holes 4610 at both the first end 4650 and the bend 4660 in the cylindrical elbow 4600. The shroud edges 4640 are open and not connected to anything. The open shroud edges 4640 provide a path through which exhausted air is vented to atmosphere.
The size and number of holes can be similar to the previous embodiment and can be based on the exhaust flow rate desired to flush CO2 from within the mask. In other variations of this embodiment, the shroud 4620 may be conical rather than biconical and may have one end that is larger than the other. The shroud may also have a square, rounded or any other appropriate geometry as an alternative to the conical geometry.
The inclusion of a shroud component around the exhaust holes in a respiratory mask can take a variety of forms depending upon the configuration of other mask components. It can be desirable for a respiratory mask to have a ball and socket connection between an elbow and a mask frame or seal housing. This can reduce hose drag on the mask. In masks with this elbow configuration, the exhaust holes and shroud can be incorporated into the ball socket for the elbow. Several non-limiting exemplary embodiments of this are shown in
As shown in
The recess 4770 has an open end that forms a toothed-like geometry in the rear insert surface 4760. The open end creates a path between the socket insert 4710 and the ball joint 4705 through which exhaled air can pass. Exhaust holes 4780 extend radially between the outer recess wall 4772 and the outer perimeter 4730. The exhaust holes 4780 allow exhaled air to pass through the recesses 4770 and be exhausted to atmosphere. The embodiment of the present disclosure includes three exhaust holes 4780 within each recess 4770; however, other embodiments may have more or less holes. The number of holes can be determined by the diameter of the holes and the flow rate through the holes required to flush CO2 from within the mask. The exhaust holes 4780 are preferably formed via laser drilling; however, other known hole forming techniques (such as in-mold formation) may be used.
As shown in
In some embodiments (not shown), the connection between the socket insert 4710 and a seal housing can be located on the outer perimeter 4730. Alternatively, the connection can be located on the rear insert surface 4760 or any other appropriate location.
In alternative embodiments, the geometry of the recesses 4770 may vary. The profile of the recesses 4770 may not be rectangular. In some embodiments, it may be triangular, asymmetric or any other suitable geometry that provides a path through which exhausted air can pass. In further embodiments, the recesses 4770 may not have defined front, outer and side walls 4772, 4774, 4776. The recesses may comprise a continuous contoured surface.
In this embodiment, the exhausted air passes through the exhaust holes 4880 in the socket insert 4810 and into a plenum chamber 4850. The plenum chamber 4850 is formed by the mask frame 4820 and the seal housing 4830. This embodiment differs from the previous embodiment in that the seal housing 4830 is configured to provide a substantially conical shroud 4860, rather than the mask frame 4820. This may be beneficial in reducing the size of the mask frame and, therefore, the dead space within the seal chamber 4830. The exhausted air exits the plenum chamber 4850 via an at least partially annular exhaust vent 4870, which is formed by a gap between the mask frame 4820 and the seal housing 4830.
The embodiment of
The outer perimeter wall 4912 is configured to provide a connection between the mask frame 4920 and seal housing 4930. The mask frame 4920 is connected to the front of the outer perimeter wall 4912 and the seal housing 4930 is connected to the rear. The outer perimeter wall comprises a snap fit bump 4913 that interlocks with a snap fit connector 4932 that forms part of the seal housing 4930. In alternative embodiments, the connections between the mask frame 4920, the socket insert 4910, and the seal housing 4930 may be provided by any suitable means known in the art.
An array of exhaust holes 4950 is positioned radially within the outer perimeter wall 4912. The exhaust holes provide a path for exhausted air to flow from within the mask, through the annular channel 4918, and out to atmosphere. The number and size of the exhaust holes will be defined based on the required flow rate to flush CO2 from within the mask. The exhausted air passes through the exhaust holes 4950 and into a plenum chamber 4960. The plenum chamber 4960 is formed between the mask frame 4920 and the seal housing 4930. The mask frame 4920 comprises a substantially conical shroud 4922, similar to those described in previous embodiments.
The socket member 5110 may be configured to form a part of a mask frame or a seal housing or, alternatively, may be a separate insert component. The shroud member 5120 comprises a seal housing wall 5121 and a shroud wall 5125. The seal housing wall 5121 is configured to form part of or connect to a seal housing (not shown). It comprises an elbow end 5122 and a distal end 5223, wherein the elbow end connects to the socket member 5110 and the distal end adjoins the shroud wall 5125. The seal housing wall 5121 also comprises an annular array of exhaust holes 5130, which are located proximal to the distal end 5123. The shroud wall 5125 comprises an annular wall section that is angled inwardly towards the elbow 5100. The shroud wall is configured to create a plenum chamber 5140 in combination with the seal housing wall 5121 and the socket member 5110. An exhaust vent 5150 is formed by a gap between the front ends of the socket member 5110 and the shroud wall 5125.
The shroud 5230 and the cylindrical exhaust member 5240 form the remaining walls of the plenum chamber 5250. The cylindrical exhaust member 5240 is configured to provide a connection between the conduit connector 5220 and the air supply end 5212 of the elbow 5210. The connections may be permanent or temporary. The cylindrical exhaust member 5240 comprises internal and external wall surfaces 5242, 5244, and an array of radial exhaust holes 5260 that extend therebetween. The exhaust holes 5260 are angled such that air flow through them is directed away from the elbow; however, in some embodiments the holes may be perpendicular to the cylindrical exhaust member or angled towards the elbow. The shroud 5330 is configured to connect to the air supply end 5212 of the elbow 5210 but, in alternative embodiments, may be connected to the cylindrical exhaust member 5240. The shroud 5230 comprises a substantially conical geometry that is configured to cover the exhaust holes 5260 in manners similar to those described in the previous embodiments. An exhaust vent 5262 is formed by an annular gap between the shroud 5230 and the flange 5224. The exhaust vent 5262 provides a path for exhausted air to exit the plenum chamber 5250.
Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words “comprise”, “comprising”, and the like, are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense, that is to say, in the sense of “including, but not limited to”.
Reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that that prior art forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavour in any country in the world.
The invention may also be said broadly to consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the specification of the application, individually or collectively, in any or all combinations of two or more of said parts, elements or features.
Where, in the foregoing description reference has been made to integers or components having known equivalents thereof, those integers are herein incorporated as if individually set forth.
It should be noted that various changes and modifications to the presently preferred embodiments described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention and without diminishing its attendant advantages. For instance, various components may be repositioned as desired. It is therefore intended that such changes and modifications be included within the scope of the invention. Moreover, not all of the features, aspects and advantages are necessarily required to practice the present invention. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is intended to be defined only by the claims that follow.
Claims
1.-45. (canceled)
46. A cushion module for a respiratory interface, comprising:
- a seal housing constructed from a relatively rigid material, the seal housing defining an aperture configured to allow a breathing gas to enter an interior of the cushion module; and
- a seal supported by the seal housing and having an upper portion and a lower portion, the seal further comprising a face contacting surface configured to contact a face of a user and create at least a substantial seal with the face of the user, the face contacting surface having an inner edge defining an opening in the face contacting surface,
- wherein the upper portion of the seal comprises a reduced stiffness portion defined between a first boundary and a second boundary such that the reduced stiffness portion deforms in response to forward movement of an upper portion of the face contacting surface,
- wherein the first boundary and the second boundary have an increased stiffness relative to the reduced stiffness portion, wherein the reduced stiffness portion comprises a front wall having a height defined by a distance between an apex of the seal, the apex being positioned in proximity to a nose of the user when in use, and an uppermost surface of the seal housing, and wherein the height is at least 6 mm.
47. The cushion module of claim 46, wherein the reduced stiffness portion comprises a rolling portion configured to roll over an outer surface of the cushion module in response to forward movement of the upper portion of the face contacting surface.
48. The cushion module of claim 46, wherein a portion of the seal defining the face contacting surface comprises a pair of nose pads positioned on each side of the opening in the upper portion of the seal, wherein an entirety of each of the nose pads is spaced outwardly from the opening.
49. The cushion module of claim 48, wherein the nose pads are the thickest portions of the portion of the seal defining the face contacting surface.
50. The cushion module of claim 49, further comprising a pair of thickened outer peripheral portions defined by the portion of the seal defining the face contacting surface, wherein at least a portion of the thickened outer peripheral portions are positioned below the nose pads.
51. The cushion module of claim 50, wherein at least a portion of the thickened outer peripheral portions are positioned above the nose pads.
52. The cushion module of claim 46, wherein a continuous portion of the inner edge of the opening defines a thickness of equal to or less than 0.6 mm, wherein the continuous portion of the inner edge extends inwardly from the inner edge at least 1 mm and extends along at least an entirety of the upper portion of the seal.
53. The cushion module of claim 52, wherein a section of the continuous portion of the inner edge located within 0.5 mm of the inner edge is equal to or less than 0.4 mm in thickness.
54. The cushion module of claim 46, wherein the upper portion of the seal defines a nose bridge portion that contacts a bridge of the nose of the user, wherein the nose bridge portion of the opening defines a continuously curved portion of the inner edge.
55. The cushion module of claim 54, wherein a width of the nose bridge portion is equal to or less than about 11 mm.
56. The cushion module of claim 54, wherein a vertical dimension of a vertical center of the nose bridge portion is equal to or greater than about 15 mm.
57. The cushion module of claim 56, wherein a depth between a rearmost point of the nose bridge portion and a lower edge of the nose bridge portion on the vertical center of the seal is at least about 4 mm.
58. The cushion module of claim 46, wherein the reduced stiffness portion comprises a front wall having a height of at least about 7 mm.
59. The cushion module of claim 58, wherein the height of the front wall is between about 7.3 mm and about 7.7 mm.
60. The cushion module of claim 58, wherein a thickness of the front wall and a top wall progressively increases from a lower end of the front wall to a rearward end of the top wall.
61. The cushion module of claim 46, wherein a distance between a point on a centerline of the upper portion and a point on the centerline of the lower portion of the face contacting surface of the seal varies by more than 2 mm between a neutral position and a depressed position of the reduced stiffness portion.
62. The cushion module of claim 61, wherein the distance between the point on a centerline of the upper portion and the point on the centerline of the lower portion of the face contacting surface of the seal varies by at least about 5 mm, at least about 6 mm, at least about 8 mm or at least about 10 mm or at least about 12 mm between the neutral position and the depressed position of the reduced stiffness portion.
63. The cushion module of claim 61, wherein the distance varies between about 90 mm to about 84 mm between the neutral position and the depressed position of the reduced stiffness portion.
64. The cushion module of claim 61, wherein the distance varies by at least about 5 percent between the neutral position and the depressed position of the reduced stiffness portion.
65. The cushion module of claim 64, wherein the distance varies by at least about 6 and ⅔ percent between the neutral position and the depressed position of the reduced stiffness portion.
66. A set of cushion modules comprising a plurality of the cushion modules of claim 46 in at least two different sizes, wherein the height of the front wall is different between the sizes.
67. The set of cushion modules of claim 66, comprising a small, medium and large size, wherein the height of the front wall of the small size is less than the height of the front wall of one or both of the medium and large sizes.
68. The set of cushion modules of claim 67, wherein the height of the front wall of the large size is greater than the height of the front wall of one or both of the small and medium sizes.
69. The set of cushion modules of claim 67, wherein the height of the front wall of the large size is greater than the height of the front wall of the medium size and the height of the front wall of the medium size is greater than the height of the front wall of the small size.
70. The set of cushion modules of claim 67, wherein the height of the front wall of the small size is about 7.3 mm, the height of the front wall of the medium size is about 7.6 mm and the height of the front wall of the large size is about 7.7 mm.
Type: Application
Filed: Mar 8, 2022
Publication Date: Jun 23, 2022
Inventors: Gregory James Olsen (Auckland), Melissa Catherine Bornholdt (Auckland), Campbell Neil Addison Martin (Auckland), Tony William Spear (Auckland), Simon Mittermeier (Auckland), Hamish Joshua Rose (Auckland), Max Leon Betteridge (Auckland), Christopher Earl Nightingale (Auckland), Matthew James Pedersen (Auckland), Sophia Adele Johnson (Auckland), Mark John Arrowsmith (Auckland)
Application Number: 17/653,975
