Abstract: A headgear system and/or an interface assembly incorporating a headgear system that, in some configurations, is configured to transform from elasticated or “stretchy” behavior to “inelastic” behavior at least in response to normal or expected forces encountered during the intended therapy. In some configurations, upon fitment to the head of a user, the system automatically adjusts toward or to an appropriate size. A headgear portion or assembly for use in combination with a breathing apparatus in some configurations is at least substantially inelastic and is three dimensional in shape. The headgear portion or assembly can comprise a plastic core and a textile casing. The headgear, or part thereof, may also have integrally moulded labels, connectors, adjustment mechanisms and/or grips.

Abstract: An adjustment system includes: a first strap assembly and a second strap assembly positioned 180 degrees with respect to, and entwined with, the first strap assembly. Each strap assembly includes a slider having first and second slots therein. The slots are defined, in-part, by a central portion extending between both of the slots, a first end portion extending along the first slot opposite the central portion, and a second end portion extending along the second slot opposite the central portion. Each strap assembly further includes a strap portion having a first end coupled to the second end portion of the slider and an opposite second end structured to be coupled to one or more of the patient interface device or another portion of the headgear; and a tab coupled to the first end portion of the slider, the tab being structured to be grasped by the patient.

Abstract: Introduced here are pressure-mitigation apparatuses for mitigating the pressure applied to a human body by the support surface of an object. The pressure-mitigation apparatus can include a series of chambers that can be individually controlled to vary the pressure therein. By varying the chamber pressure, the main point of pressure applied by the support surface to the human body may be moved across the surface of the human body. An attachment apparatus may be used to securely adhere the pressure-mitigation apparatus to the support surface.

Abstract: A headgear portion or assembly for use in combination with a breathing apparatus in some configurations is at least substantially inelastic and is three dimensional in shape. The headgear portion or assembly can comprise a plastic core, a substrate and a textile casing. The substrate and textile casing have retaining structures to attach the textile casings to the substrates and the substrates to each other.

Abstract: A protective garment comprising a hood with a face area, the face area provided with an elastomeric interface having an opening for engaging and demountably sealing a full-face mask or full-face respirator to the hood, the opening having a forehead edge and the chin edge that are both incurvate edges with respect to the center of the opening, and two cheek edges that are excurvate edges with respect to the center of the opening; the opening further having a centerline horizontal dimension between the first and second cheek edges and a centerline vertical dimension between the forehead edge and the chin edge; the centerline horizontal dimension to centerline vertical dimension aspect ratio being 1.5 or greater.

Abstract: A patient interface comprises a seal-forming structure including a textile membrane and a support structure to support the textile membrane. The seal-forming structure may have a varying construction in order to accommodate different regions and the varying contours of the patients face to ensure a robust and comfortable seal. An air impermeable layer of the textile membrane may have a thickness that varies in different portions of the textile membrane and/or different regions of the cushion assembly. Further, the seal-forming structure may include an underlying cushion, and an arrangement of the textile membrane and the underlying cushion and/or the configuration of the underlying cushion may vary in different regions of the cushion assembly to optimize patient comfort and the effectiveness of the seal in different regions of the patients face.

Abstract: A soft thermoformable elastomer with a phase change material exhibiting high latent heat of fusion. The compound provides elasticity, softness, formability, and heat over an extended duration and to facilitate prolonged skin contact at elevated temperatures. Used in combination with active ingredients the increased temperature and formability provides enhanced transdermal delivery through the skin. Thermoplastic elastomers may be manufactured by mixing together plasticizing oil, a triblock copolymer, a paraffinic substance and one or more additives, e.g., an antioxidant, an antimicrobial agent, and/or other additives to form a mixture which melted then cooled into the thermoplastic elastomer.

Abstract: A mask device includes a mask body including a front cover to form an outer appearance of the mask body, a frame coupled to the front cover, the frame located in front of a user's nose and mouth when the mask device is worn by the user, and a flow path between the front cover and the frame. A first air cleaner is disposed on one side of the mask body and a second air cleaner is disposed on another side of the mask body, and a first fixing part couples the first air cleaner to the mask body and a second fixing part couples the second air cleaner to the mask body. The first air cleaner is movable with respect to the first fixing part to move towards the frame and the second air cleaner is movable with respect to the second fixing part to move towards the frame.

Abstract: A patient interface includes a frame assembly (16100) including connectors operatively attachable to headgear, a cushion assembly (16175) including a shell (161800) and a seal-forming structure (16200) structured to form a seal with the patient's nose and/or mouth, and an air delivery connector (16600). The cushion assembly and air delivery connector are structured to releasably connect to the frame assembly independently of each other. A static face seal and separate static diametric seal between the shell (161800) and frame (16100). A dynamic face seal and separate dynamic diametric seal between the air delivery connector (16600) and frame (16100). Separate claims (FIG. 6) to a frame assembly (16100) with upper headgear connector arms (16134) including at least one slot (6146) (claim 17) or flexible portions (claim 22) to form hinges structured and arranged to conform to varying facial profiles.

Abstract: A respiratory protection hood having a sealed flexible shell including a pressurized oxygen vessel provided with a calibrated output opening leading into the inside space of the flexible shell and a device for trapping at least one portion of the carbon dioxide exhaled by the user that includes a cartridge for adsorbing carbon dioxide having a perforated tube arranged around a volume of carbon dioxide absorbing material. At least one portion of the perforated tube being arranged around the volume of absorbent material in direct communication with the inside space of the hood.

Abstract: A diving mask system is disclosed comprising a faceplate having a lateral partition on an interior surface delineating an upper and lower section, the lower section comprising a region that extends away from the upper section and includes at least one cutout opening fitted with a complementary-shaped flexible insert that enables a user to grasp the nose. The faceplate further includes a snorkel coupling having a passageway contained therein and conduits connecting the passageways with a lower chamber. The faceplate further includes a flexible tubular insert defining a passageway extending through the faceplate to the lower chamber. The tubular insert has a distal end dimensioned to fit and seal onto the mouthpiece receiver tube of a conventional second stage scuba regulator. The mask may be interchangeably configured for both scuba and snorkeling environments.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a respiratory protection device that includes a valve assembly operable between an open configuration and a closed configuration. In some exemplary embodiments, the respiratory protection device includes a mask body having a first air chamber, a second air chamber, and a breathable air zone. A valve assembly is operable to a closed configuration to prevent airflow from the first and second air chambers into the breathable air zone.

Abstract: A cushion assembly for a patient interface including an elastomeric support portion and an elastomeric seal-forming structure supported by the elastomeric support portion that is more rigid than the elastomeric seal-forming structure. The elastomeric seal-forming structure includes a first compliant region and a second compliant region separated from the first compliant region by a support region that is more rigid than the first and second compliant regions. The more rigid support region extends to and is anchored by the elastomeric support portion. In addition, for every point in the rigid support region, the inner surface has a negative curvature when the outer surface has a positive curvature and the inner surface has a positive curvature when the outer surface has a negative curvature.

Abstract: A mask system including a headgear and cushion module and a seal and frame module provided to the headgear and cushion module. The seal and frame module includes a sealing portion adapted to form a seal with the patient's face and a frame portion adapted to form a breathing chamber. The headgear and cushion module includes a cushion region adapted to support and shape the sealing portion and a headgear region adapted to support and stabilize the mask system on the patient's face.

Abstract: A diving mask system is disclosed comprising a faceplate having a lateral partition on an interior surface delineating an upper and lower section, the lower section comprising a region that extends away from the upper section and includes at least one cutout section fitted with a complementary-shaped flexible insert that enables a user to grasp the nose. The faceplate further includes a rigid annular support frame either bonded to or extending out from a backside of said flange, the frame being configured within the outer periphery of said flange. A flexible annular sidewall skirt is attached to the support frame. The flexible skirt includes a lateral nose piece section attached to the partition. The lateral nose piece section having an inlet aperture and check valve for inhaled air, and an orifice through which an exhalation conduit having a separate check valve extends from the lower chamber to a snorkel device forming a passageway for exhaled air to pass through the upper chamber to the snorkel device.

Abstract: A full hood respirator includes a fluidtight flexible bag intended to be slipped over the head of a user, the flexible bag being equipped with a transparent window and comprising, in its lower part, a source of oxygen-enriched gas and connected to an outlet orifice opening into the internal volume of the flexible bag, characterized in that the hood comprises a flexible suspension member arranged inside the flexible bag, the suspension member forming a hat or cap having a surface area smaller than the surface area of the outer flexible bag, at least part of the border of the suspension member is rigidly connected to the flexible bag, the suspension member being intended, when the hood is in the position of use, to rest on the top of the head of the user at a height somewhere between the base and the top of the hood.

Abstract: A minimal weight patient interface device that delivers breathing gas to a user includes a cushion assembling including a support cushion assembly and a sealing member is described herein. In one exemplary embodiment, the support cushion assembly includes a wedge that is made of a high density foam received within a wedge receiving portion of the support cushion assembly. In the exemplary embodiment, the cushion assembly is formed by the sealing member fitting over the support cushion assembly. The sealing member, in one embodiment, is made of silicone, for example, having a low durometer value (e.g., between 5-10 Shore 00). Furthermore, in one embodiment, the patient interface device also includes a faceplate that is placed over the cushion assembly and is made of a thermoform, such as a high density foam laminated between two pieces of fabric, such as polyester.

Abstract: A patient interface for delivering breathable gas to a patient includes a nasal prong assembly including a pair of nasal prongs structured to sealingly communicate with nasal passages of a patient's nose in use and headgear to maintain the nasal prong assembly in a desired position on the patient's face. The headgear includes side straps and rigidizers provided to respective side straps. Each rigidizer includes a first end portion that provides a connector structured to engage a respective end of the nasal prong assembly and an inwardly curved protrusion in the form of a cheek support that curves inwardly of the connector. The cheek support is adapted to follow the contour of the patient's cheek and guide a respective end portion of the side strap into engagement with the patient's cheek to provide a stable cheek support.

Abstract: A securement device, comprising a first tape having a first top surface and a first bottom surface, a second tape having a second top surface and a second bottom surface, the second bottom surface at least partially connected to the first bottom surface, a first adhesive pad secured to the first top surface at a first location, and a second adhesive pad at least partially secured to the first top surface at a second location.

Abstract: A person protection system including a garment configured for attachment to a helmet, wherein the garment defines a barrier between the wearer and the environment. The system includes a control mount integral to the garment and at least partially disposed on an environment side and a wearer side of the barrier. The control mount may include a lens configured to transfer light through the garment, and a sensor configured to detect the light transferred or reflected through the lens. A control member may be coupled to the control mount and configured to be manipulated by the wearer. When manipulated by the wearer, the control member may distort and/or disrupt the transfer of light through the lens that is detected by the sensor. The sensor may provide a sensor input signal based on the detected light.

Abstract: A patient interface system includes a patient interface device, a conduit coupled to the patient interface device, and a gas supply assembly. The gas supply assembly includes a body portion having a first end, a second end disposed opposite and distal from the first end, a lower segment, and an upper segment attached to the lower segment. The first end includes a first coupling portion coupled to the patient interface device. The second end includes a second coupling portion coupled to the conduit. The upper segment and the lower segment together form an air channel extending between the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion. The first end is configured to be substantially disposed on the patient's forehead. The second end is configured to position the conduit away from the patient's face.

Abstract: A neck strap for a headgear includes a one-piece main body adapted to engage a patient's neck, first and second lower connection portions adapted to connect to respective first and second lower mask connection straps, and first and second upper connection portions adapted to connect to respective first and second lateral crown straps.

Abstract: An adjustment assembly of a respiratory mask is provided and includes: a forehead fixing device, adapted to fix the respiratory mask on a user's forehead; an adjustment device, comprising a base body and connectors set on the base body, wherein, at least one connector is chosen by a user to be connected with the forehead fixing device according to the user's forehead.

Abstract: A vascular plug has a frame or skeleton which includes a ring of spring material and, attached to the frame, a cover of impervious or porous material. The plug is able to open a cup configuration when in a deployed condition, so as to provide an occlusion barrier to blood flow. The frame can be radially contracted by twisting into a multi-coiled configuration for deployment through an introducer. The vascular plug has a very short deployment length, making it suitable for deployment in precise locations and is also able to expand to a variety of operating diameters, thereby being suitable for a range of vessel sizes.

Abstract: A full face mask made of cloth having a nasal portion, an oral portion and transition portions is disclosed. The nasal and oral portions are made of a cloth that is impermeable to air and have nasal and oral interfaces on them to facilitate a seal with a user's face. The transition portions have easy removal clips for the lower headgear straps and sealing assistance members for better sealing.

Abstract: The present invention provides a cosmetic mask comprising: a mask body which is worn on the user's face, and which has a cosmetic liquid supply opening and a respiratory opening formed therethrough; a mist sprayer which is mounted on the mask body to be connected to the cosmetic liquid supply opening, and which sprays a cosmetic liquid into the space between the mask body and the face through the cosmetic liquid supply opening; and a respiratory connector arranged to surround the user's nose portion while being mounted on the mask body to be connected to the respiratory opening, thereby enabling the user to breathe.

Abstract: The present inventive concept relates to a sealing device (1) for garments to sealingly connect an annular layer (3) and a wearable layer (5) to the sealing device (1). The sealing device (1) comprises an annular base (10) having an inner annular wall portion (12) and an outer annular wall portion (14), a recess (30) at least partly defined by the inner annular wall portion (12) and the outer annular wall portion (14), and an annular sealing surface (40) for circumferentially and sealingly connecting the annular layer (3) to the annular base (10). The sealing device (1) further comprises an annular sealing body (60) adapted to be locked into the recess (30) to circumferentially and sealingly connect the wearable layer (5) between the annular base (10) and the annular sealing body (60).

Abstract: The invention is a frameless, disposable cloth body for use with a respiratory mask, such as for continuous positive airway pressure therapy for those having sleep apnea. The cloth body is inflatable and moisture-vapor breathable and has an inner side having a nasal interface portion disposed on it and an outer side, and also has a circular aperture formed in a central location on the body, sized to sealingly receive an air delivery arrangement. The cloth body also has a pair of wings on opposite sides with slits arranged at optimal angles for receiving headgear straps.

Abstract: A mask system includes a frame (20) adapted to attach headgear, a sealing arrangement (40) releasably connectable to the frame, and an elbow (70) provided to the sealing arrangement and adapted to be connected to an air delivery tube that delivers breathable gas to the patient. The sealing arrangement defines a breathing chamber and is adapted to form a seal with the patient's face. The sealing arrangement includes structure (50) to establish a positive connection with the frame and with the elbow.

Abstract: A nasal cushion for a mask system includes a side wall defining a breathing chamber, an undercushion extending from the side wall, and a membrane that at least partially covers the undercushion. The membrane is adapted to seal along the nasal bridge, sides of nose, corners of nose, and upper lip of the patient's face in use. The undercushion is only provided along the side of nose, corner of nose, and upper lip regions of the cushion. The undercushion includes a flap or extending portion in each side of nose region that is wider than the other regions thereof and adapted to engage and provide a force into the sides of the patient's nose in use.

Abstract: A filtering device 10 that includes a housing 12 having a plurality of subsections 32, 34, and 36 where each subsection contains a filter element 26, 28, and 30. An inlet 18 is disposed at a first location on the housing 12, and an upstream air distribution system is placed in fluid communication with the inlet 18 and with each of the subsections 32, 34, and 36. A downstream air distribution system is located in fluid communication with each subsection 32, 34, and 36, and an outlet 20 is in fluid communication with the downstream air distribution system. The subsections are fashioned such that each subsection 32, 34, and 36 is not in fluid communication with each other. Using a filtering device so constructed, airflow through the device may be better managed to enable overall product service life to be increased while minimizing pressure resistance of the total filter.

Abstract: A filtering device 10 that includes a housing 12 having a plurality of subsections 32, 34, and 36 where each subsection is adapted to receive a filter element 26, 28, and 30. An inlet 18 is disposed at a first location on the housing 12, and an upstream air distribution system is placed in fluid communication with the inlet 18 and with each of the subsections 32, 34, and 36. A downstream air distribution system is located in fluid communication with each subsection 32, 34, and 36, and an outlet 20 in fluid communication with the downstream air distribution system. The upstream and downstream air distribution systems are constructed to cause the same airflow velocity through each subsection. Using such a construction, overall product service life may be increased while minimizing pressure resistance of the total filter.

Abstract: Described herein is a safety breathing apparatus (5) having a delivery element configured to deliver respirable gas to a respiratory system of a user. The apparatus includes a breathing hose (25) in fluid communication with a first source of respirable gas (15). A valve housing (85) includes a first port (145)configured to be coupled to the delivery element, a second port configured to be coupled to the breathing hose, and a third port (14) configured to dock with a second source of respirable gas (115) without exposing the user to a surrounding atmosphere.

Abstract: A portable gas delivery system includes a mouthpiece or nosepiece, a gas delivery pack and a medical cannula tubing assembly. The mouthpiece has an upper region with a one nose port and a lower region with a mouth port. The nosepiece conceals the cannula and includes at least one nose port. The gas delivery pack has a gas storage region, a gas compression region, a gas filtration region or a combination thereof. The nosepiece, allows the cannula to provide a snug fit into the nostrils forming a medical airtight delivery of oxygen to the nose. The system is adapted for use with a wireless transceiver for use with a cellular telephone or a personal music system and connected headphones. A single-sided, hollow modular sleeve conceals the mouthpiece or nosepiece and tubing assembly while attaching to a hat, helmet, eyeglass frame, telecommunications headset, or ear of a user.

Abstract: The present invention of one embodiment includes a combined microclimate, thermal management, life-support system for care of patient and system for measurement of vital signs. The system of one embodiment, provides active external heating and simultaneously provides active internal heating.

Abstract: The present invention of one embodiment includes a combined microclimate, thermal management, life-support system for care of patient and system for measurement of vital signs. The system of one embodiment, provides active external heating and simultaneously provides active internal heating.

Abstract: A respiratory inhalation resistence exercise device with a separate air inlet and air outlet. A mask, which provides a substantially airtight perimeter seal during inhaling and lung expansion, is provided which covers at least the user's nose and mouth. Multiple air inlet inserts are provided for interchangeable use in the air inlet, allowing different rates and resistence to airflow, as provided. The device is held in place, hands free, by straps around the user's head. The device may also cover the entire face of a user, with lenses in eye openings for sight. The device may be utilized continually in vigorous exercise, without use of a mouthpiece, without significant protruding parts, without movable valves or parts, and held in place without limitation on the user's activity.

Abstract: In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, a protective hood is provided for protecting a wearer's head and face from environmental elements. The hood includes a hood body, a lens, a nose cup disposed inside of the hood body and harness assembly. The harness assembly is attached to the outside of the hood body for securing the hood body and nose cup to the wearer's head and face. The hood further includes at least one nose cup link. Each nose cup link having a portion that is internal to the hood body, a portion that is external to the hood body and a mid-section portion that is connected to the hood body at a plurality of points along mid-section portion. The harness assembly is connected to the external portion of the hood cup link for adjusting the nose cup.

Abstract: A system designed to increase diver safety in high-risk environments containing one or more hazardous materials. The system comprises one or more retrofittable kits enabling the upgrading of contaminate-vulnerable materials of an existing dive helmet to provide full environment isolation for the diver. The system preferably utilizes fluoroelastomeric replacement materials and components to convert an open circuit dive system to a closed circuit dive system. Methods of system development are also disclosed.

Abstract: A headgear article includes a head covering member that has an opening formed therein. A panel is disposed over the opening and is removably attached to the head covering member. A respirator system is also disclosed that includes the headgear article and further including a visor and defining an interior zone. The respirator system also includes a clean air supply system having an inlet configured for connection to a source of clean air and an outlet disposed within the interior zone.

Abstract: A headgear (200) for a respiratory mask (202) of a ventilator or CPAP device is provided. The headgear includes a strap portion (204, 206) formed of a substantially inextensible material. The strap portion has formed on one end thereof a connecting structure configured to connect to a mask of the ventilator or CPAP device. One advantage is that the mask will not or at least will be less inclined to lift off the face as mask pressure is increased.

Abstract: The invention utilizes a chemical/biological hood with a filter-blower system that is attached to the chemical/biological hood. The filter-blower system provides overpressure to the hood only. The hood is fitted to or attached to a chemical/biological mask. Overpressure created by the filter-blower around the mask is created and is independent of the wearer's respiration so that over-breathing of the positive pressure is not possible. Typically this system would be available as a hood capable of providing enhanced protection. However, the filter-blower and hood system could be integrated with the mask. Cinching or sealing the hood at the neck can improve overpressure performance.

Abstract: A PAP system adapted for treatment of respiratory disease or sleep disordered breathing includes headgear adapted to engage a patient's head, a patient interface adapted to be secured to and sealed against a portion of a patient's face, in use, by the headgear, a flow generator adapted to be connected to the patient interface, and wherein the flow generator is adapted to be secured by a portion of the headgear to the patient's head, and an outlet tube to interconnect the flow generator and the patient interface. The patient interface includes a frame and a sealing arrangement supported by the frame. The sealing arrangement includes a seal portion, a body portion, and an inlet tube in communication with the outlet tube. The frame and the outlet tube are constructed of a relatively rigid material.

Abstract: A respiratory mask assembly for delivering breathable gas to a patient includes a frame and a headgear assembly removably attachable to the frame. The headgear assembly includes a pair of side portions and a rear portion that interconnects the pair of side portions. The pair of side portions includes at least one strap. The rear portion has at least one strap constructed of at least two layers of material. One of the layers of material has a more rigid construction than the other of the layers of material to resist compression of the at least one strap of the rear portion in a first direction which resists movement of the at least one strap of the pair of side straps in the first direction.

Abstract: The adjustable mouth shield device provides an adjustably fitted mouth shield with adjustable headband for secure fit. The adjustable headband is fastened to the padded earpiece. The straight first extension from the earpiece is angled downwardly and forwardly to terminate in a swivel joint providing almost 360 degrees of swivel. The second extension is arced both downwardly and forwardly. The u-shaped mouthpiece is fitted to the adjustable spring mount for horizontal pivot of the mouthpiece. The mouthpiece may, by virtue of the swivel joint and the spring mount, be moved completely away from a user's mouth and, in turn, pivoted and swiveled to be directly in front of the user's mouth. The inward curves at the distal end of the mouthpiece aid in sliding on the disposable pads that shield a user from objects, foods and other materials.

Abstract: Closed system breathable gas regeneration systems comprising temperature swing adsorption (“TSA”) using metabolic regeneration, such systems being useful for EVA in extraterrestrial environments having hostile atmospheres.

Abstract: A filter mask includes an oronasal cup, an inhalation directional cover, and an exhalation diverter body. The oronasal cup encloses a nose and mouth of a user. The oronasal cup is fluidly coupled with a filter. The inhalation directional cover is configured to be joined to the filter. The inhalation directional cover includes an elongated wing portion that is oriented in an inhalation direction that is angled with respect to the center axis of the filter. The exhalation diverter body is fluidly coupled with the oronasal cup. The exhalation diverter body defines an exhalation duct that directs exhaled air out of the oronasal cup along an exhalation direction. The inhalation direction and the exhalation direction are oriented away from a plane of interaction between the user and another person.

Abstract: Ventilation apparatus includes a hat having an axis of symmetry and composed of a top and sides extending down to a rim extending all around the hat. An elongated flexible panel encircles the rim. Securements secure the panel to the rim at spaced-apart locations therearound to provide a plurality of relatively long channels extending between the rim and the panel. Each channel extends parallel to the axis and is sized to slidably receive a tube. In use, a patient wears the hat and inlet and outlet tubes are retained in selected hat channels so as to stabilize a patient interface cannula connected to the tubes so that the cannula's nasal prongs remain properly positioned in the patient's nares.

Abstract: An apparatus and system are disclosed to extract breathable air from snow via a protective helmet. The apparatus includes a protective structure, at least one air intake cavity, and a mouthpiece. The protective structure defines an inner cavity and an outer surface. A portion of a user's head may be placed within the inner cavity. The air intake cavity or cavities are disposed on the outer surface of the protective structure. The mouthpiece is in fluid communication with the air intake cavity or cavities. Additionally, the mouthpiece is configured to allow a user to draw intake air from ambient snow through the one or more intake cavities and to the user's mouth upon inhalation. Advantageously, the apparatus and system provide a reliable mechanism for drawing air from ambient snow when a user, especially the user's face or head, is at least partially buried in the snow.

Abstract: A compact respiratory protective device fitted with a mouthpiece or mouthpiece assembly that retracts, pivots or rotates into the depth of the device to reduce size when packed. This reduction in size also permits the depth of the downstream air channel to be increased while still producing a compact device. This increase in the depth of the downstream air channel maximizes the efficiency and capacity of the filter assembly and reduces the inhalation resistance of the device. The reduced breathing resistance enhances usability.