Veterinary mask apparatus

Abstract

A mask apparatus mask apparatus for veterinary applications including a housing having three walls forming sides ofan enclosure, a fi rst closed end, and a second end forming an opening through which an animal's snout is received into theenclosure; an outlet protruding from an exterior of the housing on the closed end; and an inlet protruding from an interior of theenclosure on the closed end; wherein the three walls include at least one vent having a concave shape extending towards theopening, wherein the at least one vent comprises a cavity, and wherein the opening comprises a diaphragm.

Description

VETERINARY MASK APPARATUSCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 455,954 filed on March 30, 2023, entitled VETERINARY OXYGEN MASK.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to a mask apparatus for veterinary applications, and, particularly, but not exclusively, to a mask to deliver oxygen and other gases used for treatment of animals.BACKGROUND

[0003] In veterinary practice, masks configured to deliver fluids, such as oxygen and other gases, may be arranged to fit over the respiratory openings of an animal. Conventional veterinary masks generally include modified human anesthesia masks that are poorly configured for veterinary use. For example, conventional veterinary masks tend to be quite uncomfortable for the animal to wear, and may be ill-fitting, causing stress and discomfort. For the delivery of drugs and for oxygen therapy, which requires the mask to be worn for a period of time, it may be necessary to sedate the animal so that the mask will not be removed or damaged. This may be counter-productive to the treatment of the animal. Conventional veterinary masks may lead to the animal rebreathing expelled carbon dioxide due to large dead space volume in the mask, insufficient venting of exhaled carbon dioxide from the mask, and / or use of a diaphragm around the opening of the mask. For example, there is a risk of carbon dioxide rebreathing if the mask is too tight and does not allow gases to exit, and if the mask is too loose and not fitted tightly to the animal’s snout, air entrainment may occur due to dilution of oxygen with room air within the mask. Accordingly, veterinary oxygen masks with more efficient oxygen administration and / or carbon dioxide mitigation may be desirable.SUMMARY

[0004] The present disclosure describes veterinary oxygen masks with more efficient oxygen administration and / or carbon dioxide mitigation.

[0005] A mask apparatus of the present disclosure may generally include a housing having three walls forming an enclosure having an opening at one end through which an animal’s snout is received; an outlet protruding from an exterior of the housing on a closed end opposite the opening; and an inlet protruding from an interior of the enclosure; wherein the housing includesat least one vent including a cavity and having a concave shape extending towards the opening; and wherein the opening includes a diaphragm.

[0006] A mask apparatus of the present disclosure may be characterized by decreased carbon dioxide entrainment and / or carbon dioxide rebreathing relative to a conventional veterinary mask lacking the housing as described herein.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] It is to be understood that both the foregoing summary and the following drawings and detailed description may be exemplary and may not be restrictive of the aspects of the present disclosure as claimed. Certain details may be set forth in order to provide a better understanding of various features, aspects, and advantages of the invention. However, one skilled in the art will understand that these features, aspects, and advantages may be practiced without these details. In other instances, well-known structures, methods, and / or processes associated with methods of practicing the various features, aspects, and advantages may not be shown or described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring descriptions of other details of the invention.

[0008] FIG. 1 includes a front perspective view of a mask apparatus of the present disclosure.

[0009] FIG. 2 includes a front view of the mask apparatus of the present disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 3 includes a back view of the mask apparatus of the present disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 4 includes a top view of the mask apparatus of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 5 includes a bottom view of the mask apparatus of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 6 includes a right side view of the mask apparatus of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 7 includes a left side view of the mask apparatus of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 8 includes a back perspective view of the mask apparatus of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 9 includes a view of the distance (rl) from an inlet and a vent of the mask apparatus and the distance (r2) from the inlet and a distal edge of the closed end of the housing that connects with each of the three walls of the mask apparatus of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 10 includes a view of the distance (r3) from a bottom of the inlet and a bottom of the vent as shown from a side view; the length (r4) of the inlet; the distance (r5) from the top and bottom of the vent; and the distance (r6) from the top of the mask apparatus (excluding the outlet) and the bottom of the vent.

[0018] FIG. 11 includes a view of the distance (r5) from the top and bottom of the vent and the longitudinal length (r7; excluding the outlet) of the mask apparatus of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 12A includes a graph of CO2 delta of a conventional mask with a diaphragm and a mask apparatus of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 12B includes a graph of O2 delta of a conventional mask with a diaphragm and a mask apparatus of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 13A includes a graph of CO2 delta of a mask with a conventional inlet position and the same mask with a forward inlet of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 13B includes a graph of O2 delta of a mask with a conventional inlet position and the same mask with a forward inlet of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 14A includes a graph of CO2 delta of masks with a forward inlet of the present disclosure and either without vents, with conventional vents, half taped vents, three small V- cut vents arranged in a triangular pattern as described in the present disclosure, and three large V-cut vents arranged in a triangular pattern having a cavity as described in the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 14B includes a graph of O2 delta of masks with a forward inlet of the present disclosure and either without vents, with conventional vents, half taped vents, three small V- cut vents arranged in a triangular pattern as described in the present disclosure, and three large V-cut vents arranged in a triangular pattern having a cavity as described in the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 14C includes a graph of CO2 delta of masks with a conventional vent and either without vents, with conventional vents, half taped vents, three small V-cut vents arranged in a triangular pattern as described in the present disclosure, and three large V-cut vents arranged in a triangular pattern having a cavity as described in the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 14D includes a graph of O2 delta of masks with a conventional vent and either without vents, with conventional vents, half taped vents, three small V-cut vents arranged in a triangular pattern as described in the present disclosure, and three large V-cut vents arranged in a triangular pattern having a cavity as described in the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 15 includes a diagram of the Canine Lung Model.

[0028] FIG. 16 includes a view of a mask apparatus with conventional vents of the prior art.

[0029] FIG. 17 includes a view of the mask apparatus of FIG. 16 with the vents half-taped.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] In the following description, certain details are set forth in order to provide a better understanding of various aspects of the methods disclosed herein. However, one skilled in the art will understand that these aspects may be practiced without these details and / or in the absence of any details not described herein. In other instances, well-known structures, methods, and / or techniques associated with methods of practicing the various aspects may not be shown or described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring descriptions of other details of the various aspects.

[0031] While particular aspects have been illustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Those skilled in the art will recognize or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, numerous equivalents to the specific apparatuses and methods described herein, including alternatives, variants, additions, deletions, modifications and substitutions. This application including the appended aspects is therefore intended to cover all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of this application.

[0032] The present disclosure describes a mask apparatus 100 for use in veterinary applications.

[0033] The mask apparatus 100 generally includes a housing 110 having at least three walls 120 which form the sides of an enclosure. The walls 120 also define a closed end 125 and a second end forming an opening 130 through which the snout of an animal may be received into the enclosure. A snout is the protruding portion of an animal’s face, including its nose, mouth, and jaw. In many animals, the structure is called a muzzle, rostrum, or proboscis.

[0034] The top of the mask (see FIG. 4) includes an outlet 140 protruding from the housing. The outlet 140 may protrude from the exterior of the housing on the closed end 125. The outlet 140 may be configured to receive oxygen or another gaseous substance and transfer oxygen or another gaseous substance through the outlet and into an inlet 150. The inlet 150 may be configured to receive oxygen or another gaseous substance from the outlet 140 and disperse the oxygen or another gaseous substance throughout the inside reservoir of the mask apparatus 100. The inlet 150 may protrude from an interior of the enclosure on the closed end 125.

[0035] Each wall 120 of the housing may have at least one vent 160 positioned proximate the closed end 125 of the housing (see FIGS. 1 & 7). Each vent 160 may be positioned such thatthe carbon dioxide inside the mask apparatus 100 may be expelled from the snout of an animal and escape through each vent 160, reducing carbon dioxide entrainment. The vent 160 may include a concave shape extending towards the second end forming an opening 130 of the mask apparatus 100.

[0036] The vent 160 may include a surface area of at least 0.7 in2, such as, without limitation, 0.8, 0.9, 1.0, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, 1.9, and 2.0 in2. The vent 160 may include a surface area of no more than 2.0 in2, such as not more than 1.9, 1.8, 1.7, 1.6, 1.5, 1.4, 1.3, 1.2, 1.1, 1.0, 0.9, 0.8, and 0.7 in2. Any combination of lower and upper limits may define the surface area of the vent 160, such as, 0.7 in2to 2.0 in2, including, without limitation, 0.7 in2to 1.0 in2, 1.0 in2to 1.5 in2, and 1.5 in2to 2.0 in2.

[0037] The distance from a top (FIG. 4) and bottom (FIG. 5) of the vent 160 (as shown as r5 in FIGS. 10 and 11) may be at least 0.30 inches, such as, without limitation, 0.35, 0.40, 0.45, 0.50, and 0.55 inches. The distance (r5) may be no more than 0.55 inches, such as not more than 0.50, 0.45, 0.40, 0.35, and 0.30 inches. Any combination of lower and upper limits may define the distance (r5), such as, 0.30 to 0.55 inches, including, without limitation, 0.30 inches to 0.35 inches, 0.35 inches to 0.40 inches, 0.40 inches to 0.45 inches, 0.45 inches to 0.50 inches, and 0.50 inches to 0.55 inches. The size of the vent may be altered to change the percentage of carbon dioxide rebreathing and oxygen intake.

[0038] The distance from the top of the mask apparatus 100 (excluding the outlet 140) and the bottom of the vent 160 (as shown as r6 in FIG. 10) may be at least 0.50 inches, such as, without limitation, 0.50, 0.55, 0.60, 0.65, 0.70, 0.75, and 0.80 inches. The distance (r6) may be no more than 0.80 inches, such as not more than 0.75, 0.70, 0.65, 0.60, 0.55, and 0.50. Any combination of lower and upper limits may define the distant (r6), such as, 0.50 inches to 0.80 inches, including, without limitation, 0.50 inches to 0.60 inches, 0.60 inches to 0.70 inches, and 0.70 inches to 0.80 inches.

[0039] The vent 160 may include a cavity 170 having a parabolic appearance extending towards the second end forming an opening 130 of the mask apparatus 100. The cavity 170 may be shaped and positioned such that the carbon dioxide expelled from the muzzle of an animal may escape through each vent 160 and cavity 170 to reduce carbon dioxide entrainment. The cavity 170 may have sloped sides providing a smooth transition wherein the cavity 170 does not include sharp angles.

[0040] While the cavity 170 is shown as having a parabolic shape, other shapes may be possible and are within the scope of the present disclosure. Other shapes may include, but are not limited to, a cavity 170 having a semicircular shape or any polygonal shape.

[0041] The mask apparatus may include at least one vent 160, including but not limited to, at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10 vents. According to certain aspects, the mask apparatus may include at least three vents 160 including a cavity 170. The three vents 160 may be arranged in a triangular pattern with one vent 160 positioned on each wall 120 of the mask apparatus 100 to reduce carbon dioxide entrainment.

[0042] The inlet 150 may be shaped to provide a more direct path for inlet oxygen flow by reducing the distance between the end of the inlet and the snout of an animal. Thus, the inlet 150 may be shaped and positioned to prevent a pressure drop in oxygen flow as oxygen enters the mask apparatus 100.

[0043] The length of the inlet 150 (as shown as r4 in FIG. 10) may be at least 0.21 inches, such as, without limitation, 0.21, 0.23, 0.25, 0.27, 0.29, 0.31, 0.33, 0.35, 0.37, 0.39, and 0.41 inches. The length of the inlet 150 may be no more than 0.41 inches, such as, without limitation, 0.39, 0.37, 0.35, 0.33, 0.31, 0.29, 0.27, 0.25, 0.23, and 0.21 inches. Any combination of lower and upper limits may define the length of the inlet 150, such as, 0.21 inches to 0.41 inches, including, without limitation, 0.21 inches to 0.26 inches, 0.26 inches to 0.31 inches, 0.31 inches to 0.36 inches, and 0.36 inches to 0.41 inches.

[0044] The length of the inlet 150 may be a length sufficient to allow air or oxygen flow through the inlet 150 and into the inside of the mask apparatus 100 without being partially or completely obstructed by the snout of the animal.

[0045] According to certain aspects, a distance from the inlet 150 and the vent 160 (as shown as rl in FIG. 9) may be at least 0.5 inches, such as, without limitation, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1.0, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, and 1.4 inches. The distance from the inlet 150 and the vent 160 may be no more than 1.4 inches, such as, without limitation, 1.3, 1.2, 1.1, 1.0, 0.9, 0.8, 0.7, 0.6, and 0.5 inches. Any combination of lower and upper limits may define the distance from the inlet 150 and the vent 160, such as, 0.5 inches to 1.4 inches, including, without limitation, 0.5 inches to 0.8 inches, 0.8 inches to 1.1 inches, and 1.1 inches to 1.4 inches.

[0046] The spatial arrangement of the inlet 150 may be defined as centered proximate the closed end of the mask, wherein the distance from the inlet 150 and a distal edge of the closed end of the housing that connects with each of the three walls 120 (as shown as r2 in FIG. 9) may beat least 0.5 inches, such as, without limitation, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1.0, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, and 1.4 inches. The distance (r2) may be no more than 1.4 inches, such as, without limitation, 1.3, 1.2, 1.1, 1.0, 0.9, 0.8, 0.7, 0.6, and 0.5 inches. Any combination of lower and upper limits may define the distance, such as, 0.5 inches to 1.4 inches, including, without limitation, 0.5 inches to 0.8 inches, 0.8 inches to 1.1 inches, and 1.1 inches to 1.4 inches.

[0047] The distance from a distal end of the inlet 150 and a distal end of the vent 160 opposite the distal end of the inlet 150 as shown from a side view (as shown as r3 in FIG. 10) may be at least 0.17 inches, such as, without limitation, 0.17, 0.18, 0.19, 0.20, and 0.21 inches. The distance (r3) may be no more than 0.21 inches, such as, without limitation, 0.20, 0.19, 0.18, and 0.17 inches. Any combination of lower and upper limits may define the distance, such as 0.17 inches to 0.21 inches, including, without limitation, 0.17 inches to 0.18 inches, 0.18 inches to 0.19 inches, 0.19 inches to 0.20 inches, and 0.20 inches to 0.21 inches. The mask apparatus 100 may include a diaphragm 180 surrounding the second end forming opening 130, wherein the diaphragm 180 may be configured to provide one or more of the following benefits: a comfort fit, decrease carbon dioxide rebreathing, and prevent restriction of air or oxygen flow. The diaphragm may include a flexible material, including, but not limited to, silicon, thermoplastic urethane, or any other rubber or rubber-like synthetic material.

[0048] The present disclosure provides methods of manufacturing a mask apparatus 100. The mask apparatus 100 may be manufactured by any process capable of producing the mask apparatus described herein, including, but not limited to, injection molding, 3 -Dimensional printing, urethan casting, thermoforming, Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining, and the like. In one aspect, the method of production may include injection molding, wherein the mask apparatus is an injection molded part with an overmold.

[0049] The mask apparatus 100 may include polycarbonate material. The overmold may include thermoplastic elastomer. According to certain aspects, the mask apparatus of the present disclosure may include any rigid or semi-rigid polymer / plastic. The overmold may include silicone, thermoplastic urethane, or any other rubber or rubber-like synthetic material.

[0050] The second end forming an opening 130 may include a surface area of at least 2.5 in2, such as, without limitation, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, 4.0, 4.5, 5.0, 5.5, 6.0, 6.5, 7.0, 7.5, 8.0, 8.5, 9.0, 9.5, 10.0, 10.5, 11.0, 11.5, 12.0, 12.5, 13.0, 13.5, 14.0, 14.5, 15.0, 15.5, 16.0, 16.5, 17.0, 17.5, 18.0, 18.5, 19.0, 19.5, 20.0, 20.5, 21.0, 21.5, 22.0, 22.5, 23.0, 23.5, 24.0, 24.5, 25.0, 25.5, 26.0, 26.5, 27.0, 27.5, 28.0, 28.5, 29.0, 29.5, and 30.0 in2. The second end forming an opening 130 mayinclude a surface area of no more than 30.0 in2, such as not more than 29.5, 29.0, 28.5, 28.0,27.5, 27.0, 26.5, 26.0, 25.5, 25.0, 24.5, 24.0, 23.5, 23.0, 22.5, 22.0, 21.5, 21.0, 20.5, 20.0, 19.5, 19.0, 18.5, 18.0, 17.5, 17.0, 16.5, 16.0, 15.5, 15.0, 14.5, 14.0, 13.5, 13.0, 12.5, 12.0, 11.5, 11.0,10.5, 10.0, 9.5, 9.0, 8.5, 8.0, 7.5, 7.0, 6.5, 6.0, 5.5, 5.0, 4.5, 4.0, 3.5, 3.0, and 2.5 in2. Any combination of lower and upper limits may define the surface area of the second end forming an opening 130, such as, 2.5 in2to 30.0 in2, including, without limitation, 2.5 in2to 7.5 in2, 7.5 in2to 12.5 in2, 12.5 in2to 17.5 in2, 17.5 in2to 22.5 in2, 22.5 in2to 27.5 in2, and 27.5 in2to 30.0 in2.

[0051] The mask apparatus 100 may include a surface area of at least 15 in2, such as, without limitation, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 100, 105, 110, 115, 120,125, 150, 175, 200, 225, and 250 in2. The mask apparatus 100 may include a surface area of no more than 250 in2, such as not more than 250, 225, 200, 175, 150, 125, 120, 115, 110, 105, 100, 95, 90, 85, 80, 75, 70, 65, 60, 55, 50, 45, 40, 35, 30, 25, 20, and 15 in2. Any combination of lower and upper limits may define the surface area of the mask apparatus 100, such as, 15 in2to 250 in2, including, without limitation, 15 in2to 20 in2, 25 in2to 50 in2, 50 in2to 75 in2, 75 in2to 100 in2, 100 in2to 125 in2, 125 in2to 150 in2, 150 in2to 175 in2, 175 in2to 200 in2, 200 in2to 225 in2, and 225 in2to 250 in2.

[0052] The longitudinal length of the mask apparatus 100 from the closed end 125 (FIG. 4) to the second end forming an opening 130 (FIG. 5) as defined by r7 in FIG. 11 may be at least1.5 inches, such as, without limitation, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, 4.0, 4.5, 5.0, 5.5, 6.0, 6.5, 7.0, 7.5, 8.0, 8.5, 9.0, 9.5, and 10.0 inches. The length (r7) may be no more than 10.0 inches, such as not more than 9.5, 9.0, 8.5, 8.0, 7.5, 7.0, 6.5, 6.0, 5.5, 5.0, 4.5, 4.0, 3.5, 3.0, 2.5, 2.0, and 1.5 inches. Any combination of lower and upper limits may define the length (r7), such as, 1.5 inches to 10.0 inches, including, without limitation, 1.5 inches to 2.0 inches, 2.0 inches to 2.5 inches, 2.5 inches to 3.0 inches, 3.0 inches to 3.5 inches, 3.5 inches to 4.0 inches, 4.0 inches to4.5 inches, 4.5 inches to 5.0 inches, 5.0 inches to 5.5 inches, 6.0 inches to 6.5 inches, 6.5 inches to 7.0 inches, 7.0 inches to 7.5 inches, 7.5 inches to 8.0 inches, 8.0 inches to 8.5 inches, 8.5 inches to 9.0 inches, 9.0 inches to 9.5 inches, and 9.5 inches to 10.0 inches.

[0053] The mask apparatus 100 may be shaped to fit an animal snout length of up to 35 cm. Thus, the mask apparatus 100 may be shaped to fit an animal snout length of, without limitation, at least 5 cm, such as at least 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, and 35 cm. The mask apparatus 100 may be shaped to fit an animal snout length of no more than 35 cm, such as not more than 34, 33,32, 31, 30, 29, 28, 27, 26, 25, 24, 23, 22, 21, 20, 19, 18, 17, 16, 15, 14, 13, 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, and 5 cm. Any combination of lower and upper limits may define the animal snout length capable of fitting within the mask apparatus 100, such as, 5 cm to 35 cm, including without limitation, 5 cm to 15 cm, 15 cm to 30 cm, 10 to 15 cm, 15 cm to 20 cm, 20 cm to 25 cm, 25 cm to 30 cm, and 30 cm to 35 cm.

[0054] The mask apparatus 100 may be shaped to fit a snout circumference of an animal up to 55 cm. Thus, the mask apparatus 100 may be shaped to fit an animal snout circumference of, without limitation, at least 10 cm, such as at least 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, and 55 cm. The mask apparatus 100 may be shaped to fit an animal snout circumference of no more than 55 cm, such as not more than 50, 45, 40, 35, 30, 25, 20, 15, and 10 cm. Any combination of lower and upper limits may define the animal snout circumference capable of fitting within the mask apparatus 100, such as, 10 cm to 55 cm, including without limitation, 10 cm to 20 cm, 20 cm to 30 cm, 30 to 40 cm, 40 cm to 50 cm, and 50 cm to 55 cm.

[0055] While an animal snout length of up to 35 cm and a snout circumference of up to 55 cm has been described, a mask apparatus shaped to fit an animal snout length of greater than 35 cm or a mask apparatus shaped to fit a snout circumference of greater than 55 cm is possible and within the scope of the present disclosure. The rl, r2, r3, r4, r5, r6, and number of vents of the mask apparatus of the present disclosure may be increased or decreased according to the type or size of animal.

[0056] The present disclosure also describes a kit that may be used to practice the present disclosure. A kit may include a mask apparatus 100. A kit may also include a tube or hose connecting the mask apparatus 100 to an oxygen tank or a tank having a gaseous substance. A kit may also include an oxygen tank.

[0057] Conventional veterinary masks may generally include modified human anesthesia masks and may suffer one or more of the following shortcomings for veterinary use. Conventional veterinary masks tend to be uncomfortable for the animal to wear, and may be ill-fitting, causing stress and discomfort. The delivery of drugs and oxygen therapy require the mask to be worn for a period of time. Due to the level of discomfort and the poor fitting nature of conventional masks, it is often necessary to sedate the animal so that the mask will not be removed or damaged. This may be counter-productive to the treatment of the animal, as the animal is unnecessarily subjected to the risks of sedation, including but not limited to, death, hypoxemia, prolonged recovery, nausea, and vomiting. Conventional veterinary masks maylead to the animal rebreathing of carbon dioxide due to large dead space volume in conventional masks, insufficient venting of exhaled carbon dioxide from the mask, and / or use of a diaphragm around the opening of the mask. As a non-limiting example, there is a risk of carbon dioxide rebreathing if the mask is too tight and does not allow gases to leave it, and if the mask is too loose and not fitted tightly to the animal’s snout, air entrainment may occur due to dilution of oxygen with room air within the mask.

[0058] The mask apparatus of the present disclosure improves upon one or more of the shortcomings known in the art. The mask apparatus of the present disclosure may provide an increased level of comfort compared to conventional masks, as the mask apparatus of the present disclosure may more closely conform to the shape of an animal’s snout, thus decreasing stress and discomfort. An animal wearing a mask apparatus of the present disclosure may not require sedation, thus decreasing the risks of sedation known in the art. The mask apparatus of the present disclosure may decrease or prevent carbon dioxide rebreathing due to the at least one vent and other elements of the mask apparatus discussed herein. The mask apparatus of the present disclosure may decrease or prevent air entrainment and dilution of oxygen with room air. Accordingly, the present disclosure provides a mask apparatus with more efficient oxygen administration and more efficient carbon dioxide mitigation compared to conventional masks for veterinary applications.

[0059] Definitions

[0060] In this disclosure, certain terms are used which shall have the meanings set forth as follows.

[0061] Various aspects of the methods may be described and illustrated with reference to one or more exemplary implementations. As used herein, the term “exemplary” means “serving as an example, instance, or illustration,” and should not necessarily be construed as preferred or advantageous over other variations of the devices, systems, or methods disclosed herein. “Optional” or “optionally” means that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or may not occur, and that the description includes instances where the implementation occurs and instances where it does not.

[0062] As used herein, the term “snout length” refers to a measurement of the distance from the tip of an animal’s nose to the base of the nose below the eyes.

[0063] As used herein, the term “snout circumference” refers to a measurement of the circumference of the widest portion of an animal’s snout, usually immediately below the eyes.

[0064] As used herein, the term “animal” refers to a dog, cat, bird, rabbit, guinea pig, turtle, hamster, horse, or other animal in which oxygen therapy may be desirable.

[0065] As used herein, the term “dog” refers to any domesticated canine or mammal of the genus Canis.

[0066] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular examples only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” may be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. As example, “a” vent may include multiple vents, and the like.

[0067] As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Likewise, as used herein, a term “or” is intended to mean an inclusive “or” rather than an exclusive “or.” That is, unless specified otherwise, or clear from context, “X employs A or B” is intended to mean any of the natural inclusive permutations. That is, if X employs A; X employs B; or X employs both A and B, then “X employs A or B” is satisfied under any of the foregoing instances.

[0068] Words such as “then,” “next,” etc. are not intended to limit the order of the steps; these words are simply used to guide the reader through the description of the methods.

[0069] The terms “comprises”, “comprising”, “including”, “having”, and “characterized by”, may be inclusive and therefore specify the presence of stated features, elements, compositions, steps, integers, operations, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. Although these open-ended terms may be to be understood as a non-restrictive term used to describe and claim various aspects set forth herein, in certain aspects, the term may alternatively be understood to instead be a more limiting and restrictive term, such as “consisting of’ or “consisting essentially of.” Thus, for any given embodiment reciting compositions, materials, components, elements, features, integers, operations, and / or process steps, described herein also specifically includes embodiments consisting of, or consisting essentially of, such recited compositions, materials, components, elements, features, integers, operations, and / or process steps. In the case of “consisting of’, the alternative embodiment excludes any additional compositions, materials, components, elements, features, integers, operations, and / or process steps, while in the case of “consisting essentially of’, any additional compositions, materials, components, elements, features, integers, operations, and / or process steps that materially affect the basic and novel characteristics may be excluded from such anembodiment, but any compositions, materials, components, elements, features, integers, operations, and / or process steps that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristics may be included in the embodiment.

[0070] Any method steps, processes, and operations described herein may not be construed as necessarily requiring their performance in the particular order discussed or illustrated, unless specifically identified as an order of performance. It is also understood that additional or alternative steps may be employed, unless otherwise indicated.

[0071] In addition, features described with respect to certain example embodiments may be combined in or with various other example embodiments in any permutational or combinatory manner. Different aspects or elements of example embodiments, as disclosed herein, may be combined in a similar manner. The term “combination,” “combinatory,” or “combinations thereof’ as used herein refers to all permutations and combinations of the listed items preceding the term. For example, “A, B, C, or combinations thereof’ is intended to include at least one of: A, B, C, AB, AC, BC, or ABC, and if order is important in a particular context, also BA, CA, CB, CBA, BCA, ACB, BAC, or CAB. Continuing with this example, expressly included may be combinations that contain repeats of one or more item or term, such as BB, AAA, AB, BBC, AAABCCCC, CBBAAA, CABABB, and so forth. The skilled artisan will understand that typically there is no limit on the number of items or terms in any combination, unless otherwise apparent from the context.

[0072] While specific aspects of the disclosure have been provided hereinabove, the disclosure may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as necessarily being limited to only the embodiments disclosed herein. Rather, these embodiments may be provided so that this disclosure is thorough and complete, and fully conveys various concepts of this disclosure to skilled artisans.

[0073] All numerical quantities stated herein may be approximate, unless stated otherwise. Accordingly, the term “about” may be inferred when not expressly stated. The numerical quantities disclosed herein may be to be understood as not being strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Instead, unless stated otherwise, each numerical value stated herein is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding that value. At the very least, and not as an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the scope of the claims, each numerical value should at least be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding processes.Typical exemplary degrees of error may be within 20%, 10%, or 5% of a given value or range of values. Alternatively, the term “about” refers to values within an order of magnitude, potentially within 5-fold or 2-fold of a given value. Notwithstanding the approximations of numerical quantities stated herein, the numerical quantities described in specific examples of actual measured values may be reported as precisely as possible. Any numerical values, however, inherently contain certain errors necessarily resulting from the standard deviation found in their respective testing measurements.

[0074] All numerical ranges stated herein include all sub-ranges subsumed therein. For example, a range of “1 to 10” or “1-10” is intended to include all sub-ranges between and including the recited minimum value of 1 and the recited maximum value of 10 because the disclosed numerical ranges may be continuous and include every value between the minimum and maximum values. Any maximum numerical limitation recited herein is intended to include all lower numerical limitations. Any minimum numerical limitation recited herein is intended to include all higher numerical limitations.

[0075] Features or functionality described with respect to certain example embodiments may be combined and sub-combined in and / or with various other example embodiments. Also, different aspects and / or elements of example embodiments, as disclosed herein, may be combined and sub-combined in a similar manner as well. Further, some example embodiments, whether individually and / or collectively, may be components of a larger system, wherein other procedures may take precedence over and / or otherwise modify their application. Additionally, a number of steps may be required before, after, and / or concurrently with example embodiments, as disclosed herein. Note that any and / or all methods and / or processes, at least as disclosed herein, may be at least partially performed via at least one entity or actor in any manner.

[0076] While particular aspects have been illustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Those skilled in the art will recognize or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, numerous equivalents to the specific apparatuses and methods described herein, including alternatives, variants, additions, deletions, modifications and substitutions. This application including the appended claims is therefore intended to cover all such changes and modifications that may be within the scope of this application.

[0077] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meanings as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.EXAMPLES

[0078] Example 1

[0079] Testing was conducted utilizing the Canine Lung Model (CLM) as shown in FIG. 15. The CLM included a 3 -dimensional printed canine head and airway, including anatomically accurate internal airways built from Compute Tomography (CT) scans of a 15 kg female golden retriever cadaver that was scaled down 25% in order to approximate the size of a typical patient. The 3-D printed airway concluded halfway down the trachea, where it then passed by a capnograph and oxygen sensor and into a Harvard Apparatus Dual Phase Control Respirator.

[0080] Carbon dioxide was titrated into the inlet arm of the respirator, mixed in a piston chamber, and exhaled through the head model. Different oxygen therapy states were applied to the model by mounting a mask that received oxygen from an oxygen source, which was a variable flow 5 -liter oxygen concentrator.

[0081] The respirator and 3-D printed canine head were cycled for 5 minutes without oxygen or carbon dioxide inputs. In order to standardize carbon dioxide production in the system, carbon dioxide gas was titrated into the inhalation limb of the respirator until the Capnograph read an End-Tidal carbon dioxide (EtC'Ch) of 35 mmHg. As used herein, “CO2 delta” refers to the change in EtC'Ch in the airway. Tests were begun with the EtC'Ch at a steady state of 35 mmHg. Thus, a CO2 delta of +10 would be 45 mmHg. As used herein, O2 delta refers to the change in the fraction of inspired oxygen (FiCh) in the airway.

[0082] After equilibrium was achieved, a mask was mounted to the 3-D head and oxygen flow was initiated. Once steady state was achieved, the percentage of EtCO2 and oxygen were recorded. The mask was removed to allow the model to reset.

[0083] After the respirator pump cycled out all of the old air and EtCO2 equilibrium returned to 35 mmHg and 21% FiO2, the next test was performed. Each test was performed for approximately 3 to 5 minutes depending on the breathing and therapy states.

[0084] Test 1: Diaphragm Comparison

[0085] A study was performed using the model as described above and shown in FIG. 15 to determine the effect of the diaphragm according to aspects of the present disclosure. The mask size, vents, and inlet were the same for this study.

[0086] FIG. 12A illustrates the CO2 delta for a mask with the diaphragm of the present disclosure (“inventive mask”) and a mask with the diaphragm of a conventional mask. CO2 delta was lower with the diaphragm of the present disclosure, i.e., with the inventive diaphragm, at 0.5 liters per minute of oxygen, which is the flow rate commonly prescribed to small dogs that have tracheal collapse syndrome, which may be exacerbated by carbon dioxide rebreathing.

[0087] O2 delta (FIG. 12B) was lower at 1 liter per minute with the diaphragm of the present disclosure relative to the mask with the conventional diaphragm. O2 delta was equal at 0.5 and 2.0 liters per minute. The small decrease in oxygen concentration and significant decrease in carbon dioxide concentration with the diaphragm of the present disclosure demonstrates a benefit of the diaphragm according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0088] Test 2: Inlet Position Comparison

[0089] A study was performed using the model as described above and shown in FIG. 15 to determine the effects of the placement of the oxygen inlet on the interior of the mask apparatus of the present disclosure. CO2 delta (FIG. 13A) and O2 delta (FIG. 13B) were measured with a mask having a conventional inlet position and a mask having a forward inlet according to aspects of the present disclosure. As used herein, a conventional inlet position is an inlet that does not protrude into the interior of the mask apparatus and is flush with the interior closed end of the mask apparatus. Mask size, vents, and lack of diaphragm remained the same between each mask for this study.

[0090] The forward inlet of the present disclosure demonstrated significant reduction of carbon dioxide compared to the standard inlet. The CO2 delta dropped to 3 at 2 liters per minute for the forward inlet of the present disclosure relative to 13 with the conventional inlet. Thus, carbon dioxide rebreathing with the forward inlet of the present disclosure was almost zero.

[0091] Test 3: Vent Comparison

[0092] A study was performed using the model as described above and in FIG. 15 to determine the effect of different vent arrangements with a forward inlet of the present disclosure and a conventional inlet. Mask size and lack of diaphragm remained the same for this study.

[0093] The CO2 delta (FIG. 14A) and O2 delta (FIG. 14B) were measured with a mask apparatus including a forward inlet of the present disclosure and with four different vent designs: no vents, conventional circular vents (FIG. 16), half taped vents (FIG. 17), three smallV-cut vents arranged in a triangular pattern as described in the present disclosure, and three large V-cut vents arranged in a triangular pattern having a cavity as described in the present disclosure.

[0094] The CO2 delta (FIG. 14C) and O2 delta (FIG. 14D) were measured with a mask apparatus including a conventional inlet and with five different vent designs: no vents, conventional vents, half taped vents, taped vents, three small V-cut vents arranged in a triangular pattern as described in the present disclosure, and three large V-cut vents arranged in a triangular pattern having a cavity as described in the present disclosure. FIGS. 14C & 14D demonstrate the larger v-cuts had a lower CO2 delta but also the lowest O2 delta. The three small V-cut vents had a higher CO2 delta and the higher O2 delta.

[0095] The vent arrangement and design of the present disclosure with a forward inlet of the present disclosure exhibited a reduction of carbon dioxide and reduced carbon dioxide rebreathing when relative to other vent designs with either a conventional inlet or an inlet of the present disclosure.ASPECTS

[0096] Aspect 1 : A mask apparatus for veterinary applications comprising: a housing having three walls forming sides of an enclosure, a first closed end, and a second end forming an opening through which an animal’s snout is received into the enclosure; an outlet protruding from an exterior of the housing on the closed end; and an inlet protruding from an interior of the enclosure on the closed end; wherein the three walls include at least one vent having a concave shape extending towards the opening, wherein the at least one vent comprises a cavity, and wherein the opening comprises a diaphragm.

[0097] Aspect 2: The mask apparatus of aspect 1, wherein the outlet is configured to receive oxygen and transfer oxygen to the inlet.

[0098] Aspect 3: The mask apparatus according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein the inlet is configured to disperse oxygen throughout the enclosure.

[0099] Aspect 4: The mask apparatus according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein the at least one vent is positioned proximate the first closed end of the housing.

[0100] Aspect 5: The mask apparatus according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein the mask apparatus comprises two vents.

[0101] Aspect 6: The mask apparatus according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein the mask apparatus comprises three vents spaced evenly about the housing.

[0102] Aspect 7: The mask apparatus according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein each wall having a vent positioned proximal to a top of the mask.

[0103] Aspect 8: The mask apparatus according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein the three vents comprises three small V-cut vents.

[0104] Aspect 9: The mask apparatus according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein the three vents comprises three large V-cut vents.

[0105] Aspect 10: The mask apparatus according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein the vent expels carbon dioxide and reduces carbon dioxide rebreathing.

[0106] Aspect 11 : The mask apparatus according to any of the foregoing aspects, the cavity having a parabolic appearance extending towards the second end forming the opening.

[0107] Aspect 12: The mask apparatus according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein the cavity is shaped and positioned to expel carbon dioxide and reduce carbon dioxide entrainment.

[0108] Aspect 13: The mask apparatus according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein the diaphragm is configured to provide a comfort fit about the animal’s snout and prevent carbon dioxide entrainment.

[0109] Aspect 14: The mask apparatus according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein the diaphragm comprises silicon.

[0110] Aspect 15: The mask apparatus according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein the vent comprises a surface area of at least 0.7 in2.

[0111] Aspect 16: The mask apparatus according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein the vent comprises a surface area of 0.7 in2to 2.0 in2.

[0112] Aspect 17: The mask apparatus according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein a distance from a top and a bottom of the vent is at least 0.30 inches.

[0113] Aspect 18: The mask apparatus according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein a distance from a top and a bottom of the vent is 0.30 inches to 0.55 inches.

[0114] Aspect 19: The mask apparatus according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein a distance from a top of the mask apparatus and the bottom of the vent is at least 0.50 inches.

[0115] Aspect 20: The mask apparatus according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein a distance from a top of the mask apparatus and the bottom of the vent is 0.50 inches to 0.80 inches.

[0116] Aspect 21: The mask apparatus according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein a length of the inlet is at least 0.21 inches.

[0117] Aspect 22: The mask apparatus according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein a length of the inlet is 0.21 inches to 0.41 inches.

[0118] Aspect 23: The mask apparatus according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein a distance from the inlet and the vent is at least 0.50 inches.

[0119] Aspect 24: The mask apparatus according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein a distance from the inlet and the vent is 0.50 inches to 1.4 inches.

[0120] Aspect 25: The mask apparatus according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein a distance from the inlet and a distal edge of the closed end of the housing is at least 0.50 inches.

[0121] Aspect 26: The mask apparatus according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein the distance from the inlet and the distal edge of the closed end of the housing is 0.50 inches to 1.4 inches.

[0122] Aspect 27: The mask apparatus according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein a distance from a distal end of the inlet and a distal end of the vent opposite the distal end of the inlet is at least 0.17 inches.

[0123] Aspect 28: The mask apparatus according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein the distance from the distal end of the inlet and the distal end of the vent is 0.17 inches to 0.21 inches.

[0124] Aspect 29: The mask apparatus according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein a surface area of the opening is at least 2.5 in2.

[0125] Aspect 30: The mask apparatus according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein a surface area of the opening is 2.5 in2to 30.0 in2.

[0126] Aspect 31 : The mask apparatus according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein a surface area of the mask apparatus is at least 15 in2.

[0127] Aspect 32: The mask apparatus according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein a surface area of the mask apparatus is 15 in2to 250 in2.

[0128] Aspect 33: The mask apparatus according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein a longitudinal length of the mask apparatus from the first end to the second end is at least 1.5 inches.

[0129] Aspect 34: The mask apparatus according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein the length of the mask apparatus is 1.5 inches to 10.0 inches.

[0130] Aspect 35: The mask apparatus according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein the cavity of the at least one vent comprises a parabolic appearance extending towards the second end forming an opening.

[0131] Aspect 35: The mask apparatus according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein the cavity of the at least one vent is shaped and positioned to expel carbon dioxide and reduce carbon dioxide entrainment.

[0132] Aspect 36: A mask apparatus for veterinary applications comprising: a housing having three sides and a bottom, three walls forming sides of an enclosure, a closed end, and an opening through which an animal’s snout is received into the enclosure; an outlet protruding from an exterior of the housing on the closed end; and an inlet protruding from an interior of the enclosure on the closed end; wherein the three walls include at least one vent having a concave shape extending towards the opening, wherein the at least one vent comprises a cavity, wherein contact from two of the three sides form a corner, and wherein the opening comprises a diaphragm.

[0133] Aspect 37: A mask apparatus for veterinary applications comprising: a housing having three sides and a bottom, three walls being curved proximate a closed end and an opening through which an animal’s snout is received into the enclosure; an outlet protruding from an exterior of the housing on the closed end; and an inlet protruding from an interior of the enclosure on the closed end; wherein the three walls include at least one vent having a concave shape extending towards the opening, wherein the at least one vent comprises a cavity, wherein contact from two of the three sides form a comer, and wherein the opening comprises a diaphragm.

[0134] Aspect 38: A kit comprising a mask apparatus according to any of the foregoing aspects, an oxygen tank, and a hose connecting the mask apparatus to the oxygen tank.

[0135] Aspect 39: The kit according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein a first end of the hose is connectable to the outlet of the mask apparatus and a second end of the hose is connectable to an outlet of the oxygen tank.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A mask apparatus for veterinary applications comprising: a housing having three walls forming sides of an enclosure, a first closed end, and a second end forming an opening through which an animal’s snout is received into the enclosure; an outlet protruding from an exterior of the housing on the closed end; and an inlet protruding from an interior of the enclosure on the closed end; wherein the three walls include at least one vent having a concave shape extending towards the opening, wherein the at least one vent comprises a cavity, and wherein the opening comprises a diaphragm.

2. The mask apparatus of claim 1, wherein the outlet is configured to receive oxygen and transfer oxygen to the inlet.

3. The mask apparatus of claim 1, wherein the inlet is configured to disperse oxygen throughout the enclosure.

4. The mask apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one vent is positioned proximate the first closed end of the housing.

5. The mask apparatus of claim 1, wherein the mask apparatus comprises two vents.

6. The mask apparatus of claim 1, wherein the mask apparatus comprises three vents spaced evenly about the housing.

7. The mask apparatus of claim 6, wherein each wall having a vent positioned proximal to a top of the mask.

8. The mask apparatus of claim 6, wherein the three vents comprises three small V-cut vents.

9. The mask apparatus of claim 6, wherein the three vents comprises three large V-cut vents.

10. The mask apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one vent is configured to expel carbon dioxide and reduce carbon dioxide rebreathing.

11. The mask apparatus of claim 1, wherein the diaphragm is configured to provide a comfort fit about the animal’s snout and prevent carbon dioxide entrainment.

12. The mask apparatus of claim 1, wherein the diaphragm comprises silicon.

13. The mask apparatus of claim 1, wherein the vent comprises a surface area of at least 0.7 in2.

14. The mask apparatus of claim 13, wherein the at least one vent comprises a surface area of 0.7 in2to 2.0 in2.

15. The mask apparatus of claim 1, wherein a distance from a top and a bottom of the at least one vent is at least 0.30 inches.

16. The mask apparatus of claim 15, wherein the distance from a top and a bottom of the at least one vent is 0.30 inches to 0.55 inches.

17. The mask apparatus of claim 10, wherein a distance from a top of the mask apparatus and the bottom of the at least one vent is at least 0.50 inches.

18. The mask apparatus of claim 17, wherein the distance from the top of the mask apparatus and the bottom of the at least one vent is 0.50 inches to 0.80 inches.

19. The mask apparatus of claim 1, wherein a length of the inlet is at least 0.21 inches.

20. The mask apparatus of claim 19, wherein the length of the inlet is 0.21 inches to 0.41 inches.

21. The mask apparatus of claim 1, wherein a distance from the inlet and the at least one vent is at least 0.50 inches.

22. The mask apparatus of claim 21, wherein the distance from the inlet and the at least one vent is 0.50 inches to 1.4 inches.

23. The mask apparatus of claim 1, wherein a distance from the inlet and a distal edge of the closed end of the housing that connects with each of the three walls is at least 0.50 inches.

24. The mask apparatus of claim 23, wherein the distance from the inlet and the distal edge of the closed end of the housing is 0.50 inches to 1.4 inches.

25. The mask of claim 1, wherein a distance from a distal end of the inlet and a distal end of the vent opposite the distal end of the inlet is at least 0.17 inches.

26. The mask apparatus of claim 25, wherein the distance from the distal end of the inlet and the distal end of the vent is 0.17 inches to 0.21 inches.

27. The mask apparatus of claim 1, wherein a surface area of the opening is at least 2.5 in2.

28. The mask apparatus of claim 27, wherein a surface area of the opening is 2.5 in2to 30.0 in2.

29. The mask apparatus of claim 1, wherein a surface area of the mask apparatus is at least 15 in2.

30. The mask apparatus of claim 29, wherein a surface area of the mask apparatus is 15 in2to 250 in2.

31. The mask apparatus of claim 1, wherein a longitudinal length of the mask apparatus from the first end to the second end is at least 1.5 inches.

32. The mask apparatus of claim 31, wherein the length of the mask apparatus is 1.5 inches to 10.0 inches.

33. The mask apparatus of claim 1, wherein the cavity of the at least one vent comprises a parabolic appearance extending towards the opening.

34. The mask apparatus of claim 1, wherein the cavity of the at least one vent is shaped and positioned to expel carbon dioxide and reduce carbon dioxide entrainment.

35. A kit comprising a mask apparatus of claim 1, an oxygen tank, and a hose configured for connecting the mask apparatus to the oxygen tank.

36. The kit of claim 35, wherein a first end of the hose is connectable to the outlet of the mask apparatus and a second end of the hose is connectable to an outlet of the oxygen tank.

Images