Respiratory mask with guide region

Abstract

To provide an improved respiratory mask that can be easily and securely fitted.SOLUTION: The invention provides a respiratory mask 100 with a face part 30 which comprises at least one plane of symmetry, a circumferential seal 32 and an outlet, where the face part has an outer face with at least two anchor points 60 arranged on both sides of the plane of symmetry, where the at least two anchor points each comprise a receiving element 70 for releasable connection to a connection element 80, where the connection element is configured to receive a strap. At least one guide region 50 is arranged adjacently to the receiving element.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a respiratory mask.

Background Art

[0002] Respiratory masks are used for ventilation, for assisting breathing, or as protective masks against aerosols consisting of solid or liquid particles. Various materials, gas-permeable or gas-impermeable, are used for respiratory masks. A respiratory mask made of a gas-impermeable material has a region that is partly made of a gas-permeable material or has an outlet of a hose connection system for inhaling and / or exhaling air.

[0003] A respiratory mask for ventilation or breathing assistance forms an interface between the user or patient and a ventilation device, meets high requirements for stability, safety, and comfort, and must at the same time be easy to handle. A respiratory mask is usually fixed to the head of the user or patient by straps. In particular, in the case of home ventilation, the user is responsible for correctly wearing and fixing the respiratory mask on the face. The connection of the straps to the respiratory mask is usually carried out at multiple connection points and sometimes places high demands on the dexterity of the fingertips of the user or patient. Correct attachment with the straps of the respiratory mask is a prerequisite for reliable and efficient ventilation.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The problem of the present invention is to provide an improved respiratory mask that can be easily and reliably worn.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] According to the present invention, the above problem is solved by a respiratory mask having the distinguishing features of claim 1. The dependent claims correspond to advantageous embodiments of the present invention.

[0006] The present invention relates to a respiratory mask having a face component including at least one plane of symmetry, a circumferential seal, and an outlet, wherein the face component has an outer surface including at least two anchor points located on both sides of the plane of symmetry, and each of the at least two anchor points includes a receiving element for detachably connecting to a connecting element, the connecting element being formed to accommodate (receive) a strap, in which case at least one guide region is located next to the receiving element.

[0007] Alternatively, the breathing mask may also be characterized by having a guide region that is shaped to lead the connecting element into the containment element.

[0008] Alternatively, the breathing mask may also be characterized by having guide regions positioned on both sides of a symmetrical plane in the facial features.

[0009] Alternatively, the breathing mask is characterized in that the guide area is formed by recesses and / or protrusions on the outer surface of the facial component.

[0010] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized by having a guide area formed as a guide groove, and the guide groove being formed by a recess.

[0011] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized by guide grooves that extend by 5% to 100% of the length of the facial component, preferably 50% to 100% of the length of the facial component, for example, 95% or more (or more than 95%).

[0012] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized by the guide groove including a groove entrance that progressively deepens to form a transition from the outer surface to a final recess.

[0013] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized by having the groove opening located at the upper edge of the facial component.

[0014] Alternatively, the respiratory mask is also characterized in that the guide groove includes a groove bottom, a rear groove edge, an anterior groove edge, and an end region, the end region being a region of the groove bottom surrounded by at least one of the groove edges (the rear groove and at least one of the anterior groove edges).

[0015] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized by having a smooth and / or structured (e.g., textured) surface at the bottom of the grooves.

[0016] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized by having a smooth and / or structured (e.g., textured) surface on the groove edges.

[0017] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized by guide grooves being laterally defined by groove edges, with the groove edges positioned between the outer surface and the groove bottom.

[0018] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized by having groove edges that extend linearly or curved from the outer surface to the bottom of the groove.

[0019] Alternatively, the respiratory mask is also characterized in that the posterior groove edge is positioned at an angle α1 with respect to the groove bottom, and the anterior groove edge is positioned at an angle α2 with respect to the groove bottom, and the magnitudes of angles α1 and α2 can be selected independently of each other.

[0020] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized by having a sharpened and / or rounded transition from the groove bottom to the groove edge.

[0021] Alternatively, the respiratory mask is also characterized in that the posterior groove edge is positioned at an angle β1 with respect to the outer surface, and the anterior groove edge is positioned at an angle β2 with respect to the outer surface, and the magnitudes of angles β1 and β2 can be selected independently of each other.

[0022] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized by having a transition from the outer surface to the groove edge that is formed with sharp corners and / or rounded edges.

[0023] Alternatively, the breathing mask is also characterized in that the height of the groove edge is formed at a constant and / or various heights.

[0024] Alternatively, the breathing mask is also characterized in that the concave part of the guide groove is formed at a constant and / or various depths, and the concave part is formed at a depth in the range of 0.5 mm to 6 mm.

[0025] Alternatively, the breathing mask is also characterized in that the concave part is formed at various depths. The concave part is formed at a depth of 1 mm to 6 mm, preferably 4 mm, in the end region, and the concave part is formed at a depth of substantially 0.8 mm to 2 mm, preferably 1 mm, in other regions of the guide groove.

[0026] Alternatively, the breathing mask is also characterized in that the guide groove is formed with a constant width and / or has a groove width with various widths.

[0027] Alternatively, the breathing mask is also characterized in that the guide groove has various groove widths. The first section is formed as a groove passage having a constant groove width A. The groove width continuously increases from groove width B to groove width C after the groove passage, and the groove width continuously decreases from groove width D to groove width E after reaching groove width C.

[0028] Alternatively, the breathing mask is also characterized in that the front groove edge and the rear groove edge extend in a direction away from each other between groove width B and groove width C.

[0029] Alternatively, the breathing mask is also characterized in that the front groove edge and the rear groove edge extend in a direction approaching each other between groove width C and groove width E.

[0030] Alternatively, the breathing mask is also characterized in that in the region of groove width C, the rear groove edge is arranged at the place farthest from the symmetry plane, and the front groove edge is arranged at the place closest to the symmetry plane.

[0031] Alternatively, the respiratory mask is also characterized by the rear groove edge receding in an arc shape in the region between groove width B and groove width D, thereby forming a guide groove in this region as a groove curvature (Rinnenbucht) including the end region.

[0032] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized by having its edge regions positioned as far away from the plane of symmetry as possible.

[0033] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized in that the groove is surrounded by a posterior groove edge, and the groove width (Weight) decreases continuously (gradually) as the distance from the plane of symmetry increases in the horizontally extending shape.

[0034] Alternatively, the respiratory mask is characterized in that the groove includes a first groove width, a second groove width, and a third groove width formed by the horizontal extension of the posterior groove rim, wherein the first groove width is greater than the second groove width, and the second groove width is greater than the third groove width.

[0035] Alternatively, the respiratory mask is also characterized in that the posterior groove edge extends horizontally, thereby forming the width of the first groove between groove width B and groove width D.

[0036] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized by the formation of a second groove width between the two anterior web bases.

[0037] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized by the formation of a third groove width between the upper central web base and the lower central web base.

[0038] Alternatively, the respiratory mask is also characterized in that the end region is located in the groove between the second groove width and the third groove width.

[0039] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized by the fact that the height of the posterior groove rim can increase in the edge region.

[0040] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized in that the end region of the guide groove is spatially adjacent to the containment element, and the containment element overlaps (straddles) the end region of the guide groove.

[0041] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized in that the containment element rests over (straddles) the edge region of the guide groove so that a containment space is created.

[0042] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized by the containment element being an integrated component of the outer surface and grooved edge.

[0043] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized by the containment element being an integrated component of the outer surface and the rear groove edge.

[0044] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized by the fact that the facial components are made from rigid plastic, selected from the group consisting of polyamide, polycarbonate, polyoxymethylene, polysulfone, and polypropylene.

[0045] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized by the fact that the facial component is made from polyamide PA12.

[0046] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized by the fact that its containment elements are made from the same material as the facial components.

[0047] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized by having the containment element, outer surface, and rear groove edge formed integrally.

[0048] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized by having a containment element comprising two webs, one bridge, one containment hole (containment diameter), and one containment opening.

[0049] Alternatively, the respiratory mask is also characterized in that the web is connected to the rear groove edge via a web base surface that includes an anterior web base and a posterior web base, and the web is positioned spatially away from the bottom of the groove.

[0050] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized by having a web that is formed in a straight and / or curved manner.

[0051] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized in that the web is positioned at an angle ε with respect to the groove bottom, and the value of the angle ε is in the range of 30° to 90°, preferably in the range of 30° to 60°.

[0052] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also feature a bridge that is fabricated integrally with the web, and the bridge is positioned spatially away from the bottom of the groove.

[0053] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized by the web, bridge, and groove bottom defining the containment space.

[0054] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized in that the bridge is at least partially formed in a circular shape by the accommodation hole, and the bridge is interrupted by the accommodation opening.

[0055] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized by having a bridge that is formed in a semicircular shape.

[0056] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized by having a containment element comprising at least one central web and at least one, preferably two through-holes, wherein the central web is positioned between the bridge and the outer surface.

[0057] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also feature a central web positioned on half of the bridge.

[0058] Alternatively, the respiratory mask is also characterized in that at least one central web is connected to the rear groove edge via a central web base surface including an upper central web base and a lower central web base, and the central web is spatially separated from the groove bottom.

[0059] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized by having a receiving opening that is smaller than the receiving hole (receiving diameter).

[0060] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized by having its containment opening facing forward.

[0061] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized by the fact that the connecting element is a detachable component of the respiratory mask.

[0062] Alternatively, the breathing mask may also be characterized by the fact that the connecting elements are made from the same material as the facial components.

[0063] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized by the connecting element comprising an attachment element and a retaining web, wherein the attachment element and the retaining web are positioned opposite each other to the connecting element.

[0064] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized by the bottom surface of the connecting element including a cavity extending from the inner bottom surface to the outer bottom surface, thereby forming a retaining web.

[0065] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized by having a crescent-shaped cavity.

[0066] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized by a retaining web formed to accommodate (receive) a strap, and the strap being formed to attach the respiratory mask to the user and / or patient's head.

[0067] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized in that the attachment element comprises a button plate, a protruding portion, and a neck portion, and the button plate is formed (e.g., integrally molded) with the connecting element via the neck portion.

[0068] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized by having a rounded or curved button plate and neck, each formed to its maximum diameter, with the maximum diameter of the button plate being greater than the maximum diameter of the neck.

[0069] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized in that the housing element is set and formed to detachably house the connecting element via an attachment element formed (e.g., integrally molded) on the connecting element.

[0070] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized by having a receiving opening that accommodates the neck and guides it into the receiving hole.

[0071] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized by having a containment space that is set and formed to accommodate a button plate.

[0072] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized by the fact that the connecting element is reversibly connected to the housing element by housing the mounting element in the housing hole and housing space.

[0073] Alternatively, the respiratory mask is also characterized by the fact that the connection points of the connection elements to the containment element are supported in a movable (movable), particularly rotatably, manner.

[0074] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized by having a connecting element with a side wall, the side wall having at least one, preferably two, grip recesses that are wider than the side wall.

[0075] Alternatively, the respiratory mask may also be characterized by having at least one grip recess comprising an inner wall and an outer wall, wherein the outer wall of the grip recess comprises at least one structural element in the form of ribs, corrugations, grid structures, nets, and / or dots, for example, in the form of rib-like protrusions.

[0076] The figure shows an example of the respiratory mask 100 according to the present invention. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0077] [Figure 1] This is a view of the respiratory mask 100 from the front 520 to the side. [Figure 2]This is a plan view from the front 520 of a respiratory mask 100 without the connecting element 80. [Figure 3] This is a view from the left 210 of the respiratory mask 100 without the connecting element 80. [Figure 4] This is a view of the face component 30 from the front 520 to clarify the orientation and positional relationships used in this specification. [Figure 5] This is a view of the face part 30 from above 310. [Figure 6] This is a view of the face part 30 from below 320 degrees. [Figure 7] This is a plan view of the face part 30 from the front 520. [Figure 8] This is a plan view of a portion of the face component 30 from the front 520. [Figure 9] This is a perspective view of a part of the face component 30 from diagonally above 310. [Figure 10] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the guide groove 50. [Figure 11] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the guide groove 50. [Figure 12] This is a schematic overview view of the posterior ditch edge 51 in the region of the ditch (bay-shaped ditch) 54, as seen from above. [Figure 13] This is a plan view of a portion of the face component 30 to show the housing element 70. [Figure 14] This is a plan view showing the details of the containment element 70. [Figure 15] This is a schematic diagram of the containment element 70 viewed from 520 degrees in front. [Figure 16] This is a partial view of the face part 30 from the front 520 to show the housing element 70 from the front 520. [Figure 17] This is a plan view of the connecting element 80 from the rear 420. [Figure 18] This is a perspective view of the connecting element 80 from the front 520. [Figure 19] This is a side view of the connecting element 80. [Figure 20] This is a detailed view of the mounting element 90. [Figure 21]This is a diagram of a connecting element 80 connected to a housing element 70 via a mounting element 90. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0078] [Examples] The respiratory mask 100 according to the present invention may be a mask for ventilation, a mask for respiratory assistance, or a protective mask. The respiratory mask 100 may be a mouth-nasal protective mask, a nasal mask, or a full-face mask. The following examples show a full-face mask for ventilation.

[0079] Other features and advantages of the respiratory mask 100 according to the present invention will become apparent in the following description of the illustrated examples. The present invention is not limited to the described examples.

[0080] Figures 1 to 3 show different perspective views of a respiratory mask 100 for breathing and / or ventilation, having a forehead component 10, a transition component 20, and a face component 30, as well as a hose connection system 150.

[0081] The forehead component 10 comprises a forehead pad 12, at least one upper anchor point 13, and a connection point 14 (see Figures 1 and 2).

[0082] The transition part 20 can connect the forehead part 10 to the face part 30 via the connection point 14. The transition part 20 can be supported in an adjustable and movable manner in the longitudinal direction.

[0083] The face component 30 may include a circumferential seal 32 (shown only in Figure 1), a connecting point 34, an intermediate member 35, an exit 36 ​​(not shown), a guide area 50, and at least two anchor points 60 / 61. At least two anchor points 60 / 61 each include a housing element 70 and a connecting element 80 (shown only in Figure 1).

[0084] Figure 4 shows a plan view of the face part 30 from the front 520. The face part 30 has a roughly triangular shape in its usual form. The triangular shape of the face part 30 has particularly rounded corners or vertices. The triangular shape is not particularly straight, but is formed by curving slightly outward.

[0085] The vertex 40 of the triangle is defined as being located at the top or above 310. The vertex 40 of the triangle is positioned at the 12 o'clock position and is formed to rest on the nose. The other two angles of the triangle are defined as the lower angles 43 / 44.

[0086] The base 45 of the triangle is defined as connecting the two lower angles 43 / 44 and being located at the lower end or below 320. The base 45 of the triangle is formed to be placed in the region between the lower lip and the chin.

[0087] The lower corner points 43 / 44 are located at the 3 o'clock or 9 o'clock position when the exit 36 ​​described below is considered the center of the virtual dial. The corner point located at the 3 o'clock position when viewed on the outer surface 31 is defined as the lower left corner point 43. The corner point located at the 9 o'clock position when viewed on the outer surface 31 is defined as the lower right corner point 44.

[0088] To make it clearer, a horizontal plane (horizontal plane) 200 and a vertically extending plane of symmetry (plane of symmetry) 300 are defined here. The horizontal plane 200 extends horizontally. The horizontal plane 200 defines the maximum width of the face part 30.

[0089] The maximum width of the face part 30 is in the range of 80mm to 120mm, preferably 95mm to 100mm. For example, the maximum width of the face part (30) is 98mm. The two anchor points 60 / 61 are located in the area of ​​the maximum width of the face part.

[0090] The plane of symmetry 300 stands perpendicular to the horizontal plane 200. In this embodiment, the face part 30 is mirror symmetric, meaning that the face part 30 can be mirrored by the plane of symmetry 300 shown herein.

[0091] The terms symmetry plane 300 and horizontal plane 200, as used herein, maintain their effectiveness even when the breathing mask 100 is shown tilted or rotated and the planes appear differently. The symmetry plane 300 defines the maximum length of the face component 30.

[0092] The maximum length of the face part 30 is in the range of 40 mm to 200 mm, preferably in the range of 80 mm to 140 mm, and particularly preferably in the range of 90 mm to 130 mm. For example, the face part can be formed in three size categories, where the maximum length of the face part 30 is, for example, in the range of 90 mm to 105 mm in the small embodiment, for example in the range of 105 mm to 116 mm in the medium embodiment, and for example in the range of 116 mm to 130 mm in the large embodiment.

[0093] The ratio of the maximum width to the maximum length of the face part 30 is, for example, in the range of 1:0.9 to 1:1.07 in the small embodiment, in the range of 1:1.07 to 1:1.18 in the medium embodiment, and in the range of 1:1.18 to 1:1.33 in the large embodiment, assuming a predetermined maximum mask width of 98 mm.

[0094] Figure 5 shows the face part 30 viewed from above 310, and Figure 6 shows the face part 30 viewed from below 320. The front plane 500, the middle plane 450, and the rear plane 400 are cross-sections of the horizontal plane 200 (Figure 4). The symmetry plane 300 extends perpendicular to the planes 500 / 450 / 300.

[0095] The front plane 500 is separated from the patient's face (not shown) in use. The rear plane 400 corresponds to the plane of the patient's face (not shown) in use. The distance between plane 400 and plane 500 defines the maximum depth of the face component 30.

[0096] The outer surface 31 of the facial component 30 is, by definition, the surface that is separated from the patient's face (not shown) in the state of use. The outer surface 31 faces the front plane 500 and is located correspondingly forward 520.

[0097] The inner surface 41 of the face component 30 is, by definition, the surface that faces the patient's face (not shown) when in use. The inner surface 41 (shown only in Figure 6) faces the rear plane 400 and is located correspondingly at the rear 420.

[0098] The facial component 30 is made from, for example, plastic (resin). The facial component 30 may be manufactured, for example, by injection molding. However, other suitable materials and manufacturing methods may be considered as appropriate in terms of stability, strength, flexibility, temperature resistance, weight, cost, biocompatibility, appearance, and comfort.

[0099] The facial component 30 is preferably made from a rigid plastic. Suitable plastics include, for example, polyamide, polycarbonate, polyoxymethylene, polysulfone, and polypropylene. For example, the facial component 30 is made from polyamide PA12. The advantages of polyamide PA12 are the material's very good temperature resistance, high load-bearing capacity, and high transparency.

[0100] In this embodiment, the material of the face part 30 is a gas-impermeable material. However, it is also conceivable that the face part 30 be made of a gas-permeable material.

[0101] From Figures 5 and 6, it can be seen that the outer surface 31 of the face part 30 is curved convexly for most of the time, and the inner surface 41 of the face part 30 (see Figure 6) is curved concavely for most of the time. Due to the curvature of the face part 30, the outer edge 33 points to the rear 420, creating a hollow space between the face surface (not shown) and the face part 30 of the breathing mask 100. In use, breathing gas is contained in this hollow space. Preferably, the hollow space is formed to a size such that the inner surface 41 of the face part 30 does not touch the face surface. At the same time, in order to minimize the area containing breathing gas, it is preferable that the hollow space be formed to be as small as possible. Since the volume in which the mixed gas or CO2 can accumulate is kept as small as possible, the smallest possible volume is advantageous.

[0102] Figure 4 shows that anchor points 60 / 61 are located in the area of ​​the maximum width of the face component. Figures 5 and 6 further show that in this embodiment, anchor points 60 / 61 are located in the area between the intermediate plane 450 and the rear plane 400.

[0103] It is advantageous for the anchor points 60 / 61 to be positioned as far downward 320 and as far back 420 as possible, thereby improving the stability of the respiratory mask 100 after it is fitted to the face. Thus, the anchor points 60 / 61 are positioned as close as possible to the face of a patient (not shown). However, after the mask is fitted to the face, the anchor points 60 / 61 are positioned away from the face (not shown) so that the connecting element 80, described later in this specification, cannot come into contact with the face.

[0104] Figure 7 shows a plan view of the face component 30 from the front 520. As described above, the face component 30 comprises an outer surface 31 and an inner surface 41 (not shown herein). The face component 30 is defined by an outer edge 33. The outer edge 33 is formed to accommodate the seal 32, which will be described below.

[0105] The facial component 30 typically has a seal 32 (see Figure 1) positioned on its outer edge 33. The seal 32 is consistently positioned along the entire outer edge 33 of the facial component 30. The circumferential seal 32 is formed to contact the skin of the user / patient's face. The circumferential seal 32 is formed to be flexible to conform to the user / patient's face. The circumferential seal 32 is preferably made from a flexible plastic, such as silicone. However, other suitable materials may be considered as appropriate in terms of gastightness, stability, flexibility, and comfort.

[0106] In this embodiment, the face component 30 is formed to be gas-tight with respect to the surrounding air. In this embodiment, gas exchange can be performed only through the outlet 36, which will be described later.

[0107] A connecting point 34 can be placed at the vertices 40 of the face part 30. The connecting point 34 allows the face part 30 to be connected to the forehead part 10 via the transition part 20. The connecting point 34 allows the face part 30 to be connected to the transition part 20. The connecting point 34 may protrude beyond the outer surface of the face part 30, forming a protruding portion. The transition part 20 can be attached to this protruding portion. The connecting point 34 can be formed, for example, as a guide rail.

[0108] The connecting portion 34 can be formed as a one-piece or two-piece. Preferably, the connecting portion 34 is formed as a one-piece with the face part 30 and from the same material as the face part 30. In other words, the connecting portion 34 is a fixed component of the face part 30. However, it is also conceivable that the face part 30 and the connecting portion 34 are formed as two pieces. In the two-piece embodiment, the face part 30 and the connecting portion 34 can be manufactured from the same material. However, it is also conceivable that the connecting portion 34 is made of a different material than the face part 30.

[0109] An intermediate member 35 can be placed below 320, following the connection point 34. In other words, the intermediate member 35 can be placed between the connection point 34 and the outlet 36, which will be described below. Other functional elements, such as a pressure measuring tube or a CO2 measuring tube, or something similar (not shown), in particular a measuring tube, can be placed in the intermediate member 35.

[0110] Below the intermediate member 35 and between the lower corner points 43 / 44 of the face part 30, an outlet 36, for example, can be positioned. The outlet 36 can also have any other shape, from round to elliptical and even angular. In the case of a protective mask, the outlet can also be formed from a gas-permeable material over a large area. The outlet 36 can be formed as an opening or in a closed state (geschlossen).

[0111] The outlet 36 shown in Figure 7 is formed as a circular opening in the face component 30. The outlet 36 includes an outlet edge 37 which may have one or more notched elements 39 and locking elements 38. Through these elements, other connecting units, such as a connecting tube for housing a connecting hose that can connect the face component 30 to a breathing gas source, can be inserted into the opening. Thus, a hose connection system 150 (see Figures 1 to 3) can be connected to the outlet 36.

[0112] In another embodiment, the outlet 36 may be in a closed state. For example, the outlet 36 may be made from a different material than the face part 30. The outlet 36 may be made from a material that allows gas exchange, while the face part 30 may be made from a material that does not allow gas exchange.

[0113] In addition, the face component 30 comprises at least one guide region 50 as described below, and at least two anchor points 60 / 61, each having a receiving element 70 and a connecting element 80. The guide region 50 is formed to guide the connecting element 80 to the receiving element 70, and is formed, for example, as a guide groove 50.

[0114] Figure 8 shows a plan view of a portion of the face part 30 from the front 520, along with the outer surface 31 of the face part 30 having at least one guide groove 50. Figure 9 shows a perspective view of a portion of the face part 30 from diagonally above 310.

[0115] The guide groove 50 allows the user and / or patient to guide the connecting element 80, as described below, along the guide groove 50. In particular, the intention is to guide the connecting element 80 to the receiving element 70, which is spatially adjacent to the end region 55 (see below) of the guide groove 50, as described below.

[0116] The guide groove 50 may be formed, for example, by a recess 59 on the outer surface 31 of the face part 30. It is also conceivable that the guide groove (guide runner) 50 may be formed by a protrusion on the outer surface 31 of the face part 30, such as a raised guide edge or something similar.

[0117] The guide grooves 50 are located on at least one side of the face part 30, preferably both sides. It is particularly preferable that the guide grooves 50 are formed symmetrically on both sides of the symmetrical plane 300 (Figure 4).

[0118] Figures 8 and 9 illustrate an example of a face part 30 having a guide groove 50 formed as a recess 59 on the outer surface 31. In this example, the guide groove 50 is symmetric (axially symmetric) with respect to the symmetry plane 300. For simplicity, only one of the symmetrical halves of the guide groove 50 will be described below.

[0119] The recess 59 of the guide groove 50 is in the range of 0.5 mm to 6 mm, preferably 0.8 mm to 2 mm, for example, the guide groove 50 is formed to a substantially 1 mm depth. The recess 59 may have a different depth in a specially formed area of ​​the guide groove 50 than the rest of the guide groove 50. The extent of the recess 59 is selected so that the guide groove 50 provides reliable and easy handling to the user and / or patient.

[0120] The guide groove 50 can extend linearly and / or curvilinearly (geschwungen). The guide groove 50 can extend over the entire face part 30 or over only a portion of the face part 30. The guide groove 50 extends by 5% to 100% (or more than 5% to 100%) of the length of the face part 30, preferably by 50% to 100% (or more than 50% to 100%), for example, by 95% or more (or more than 95%) of the length of the face part 30.

[0121] In the embodiment shown, at least one guide groove 50 extends over almost the entire outer surface 31 and is positioned to extend mostly perpendicularly from the vertex 40 to the base 45.

[0122] The guide groove 50 begins at the groove entrance 52. In this embodiment, the groove entrance 52 is located at the vertex 40 of the face part 30. It is also possible that the groove entrance 52 is located at another point on the face part 30, for example, at the base 45.

[0123] The groove entrance 52 deepens continuously, forming a transition area from the outer surface 31 of the face part 30 to the final recess 59 of the guide groove 50.

[0124] In this embodiment, the recess 59 is formed after the groove entrance and is mostly at a constant depth. The recess 59 can also have varying depths. For example, the recess 59 of the guide groove 50 can be formed deeper in the end region 55, which will be described later in this specification.

[0125] The guide groove 50 comprises a rear groove edge 51 and a front groove edge 510. The rear groove edge 51 is substantially closer to the rear plane 400, and the front groove edge 510 is substantially closer to the front plane 500 (see also Figure 5).

[0126] In this embodiment, the rear groove edge 51 and the front groove edge 510 do not have a contact point. In another embodiment, particularly when the outer surface 31 of the face part 30 has two or more guide grooves 50, the front groove edge 510 and the rear groove edge 51 may be connected at one or more locations.

[0127] In this embodiment, the groove edges 51 and 510 are formed consistently and without interruption.

[0128] In this embodiment, the groove edges 51, 510 have mostly smooth surfaces. One or both of the groove edges 51, 510 may have a structure such as a wavy undulation.

[0129] Since the user receives tactile feedback regarding the guidance of the guide groove 50 through the wave-like undulations, the structure of the groove edges 51, 510 may improve the guiding characteristics. For example, the wave-like undulations can be made into a different uniform and non-uniform structure. The groove edges 51, 510 can be structured so that the user guiding the connecting element 80 along the groove edges 51, 510 of the guide groove 50 receives tactile feedback regarding approach to the accommodation element 70. In this example, the structure of the groove edges 51, 510 would be arranged so that the structure of the area of ​​the groove edges 51, 510 closer to the accommodation element 70 is either more uniform or more non-uniform.

[0130] The guide groove has a groove width 58. The groove width 58 of the guide groove 50 depends substantially on the position of the rear groove edge 51 relative to the front groove edge 510. The groove width 58 of the guide groove 50 can be formed to be constant or can be varied.

[0131] The groove width 58 of the guide groove 50 is formed at the groove entrance 52 with a width of 6 mm to 12 mm, preferably 8 mm to 12 mm, for example, 10 mm. The groove width 58 immediately after the groove entrance 52 is defined as groove width 58A.

[0132] A guide groove 50 having a constant groove width 58 corresponding to the groove width 58A can extend directly from the groove entrance 52 to the end region 55 (see below) of the guide groove 50 that is spatially adjacent to the housing element 70.

[0133] In the embodiments shown in Figures 8 and 9, the guide groove 50 has varying groove widths 58. The guide groove 50 begins with a groove entrance 52 having a groove width 58A. The groove width 58A is constant in the first division. The first division of the guide groove 50 with a substantially constant groove width 58A is referred to here as the groove passage 53.

[0134] In a guide groove 50 with a constant groove width 58, the rear groove edge 51 and the front groove edge 510 extend parallel to each other. Even when the guide groove 50 with a constant groove width 58 extends in a curved manner, they still extend parallel to each other, and in this case, the groove edges 51 and 510 form parallel curves.

[0135] The groove passage 53 can extend for any length along the length of the face part 30. For example, the groove passage 53 may extend for 50% or more (or more than 50%) of the length of the face part 30.

[0136] In this embodiment, the groove width 58 of the guide groove 50 increases after the groove passage 53. The width of the guide groove 50 that is wider than groove width 58A is called groove width 58B. The groove passage 53 ends just before groove width 58B.

[0137] The width of the guide groove 50 can be increased from the groove width 58B. For example, the groove width 58 can be continuously increased. The guide groove widens from the groove width 58B to the maximum groove width 58C after the groove passage 53.

[0138] In this embodiment, the groove width 58 of the guide groove decreases again after groove width 58C. Groove width 58D corresponds to groove width 58B. In this embodiment, after reaching groove width 58D, the guide groove 50 extends along the base 45 and connects at the upper left end in a symmetrical plane 300 with the portion of the guide groove 50 that starts in the same or mirror image shape and extends to the base 45.

[0139] In the illustrated embodiment, the connection portion at the base 45 is formed with a smaller width at the top of the guide passage 50. At the base, the groove width 58E is smaller than the groove widths 58A or 58B and 58D.

[0140] As the front groove edge 510 and the rear groove edge 51 extend away from each other, the groove width 58 between groove width 58B and groove width 58D widens. The front groove edge 510 extends substantially perpendicularly from groove width 58B along the exit 36 ​​and extends near the plane of symmetry 300.

[0141] The rear groove edge 51 moves away from the symmetrical plane 300 from the groove width 58B and extends in the direction of the rear plane 400, thereby widening the guide groove 50 on the horizontal plane 200. The groove width 58C is the widest part of the guide groove 50 in the horizontal direction. From the groove width 58C, the rear groove edge 51 again extends in the direction of the symmetrical plane 300.

[0142] The horizontal extension shape of the guide groove 50 between groove width 58B and groove width 58D is curved and is called a groove bay 54. By definition, a curved shape means that the guide groove 50 has a curved or open arc shape in this region due to the arc-shaped recession of the rear groove edge 51. The groove bay 54 can extend in a rounded shape, for example, or it can extend in an angular shape. The groove bay 54 is surrounded by the rear groove edge 51.

[0143] In the illustrated embodiment, the guide groove 50 ends at an end region 55 in the horizontal plane 200. The end region 55 is located as far away as possible from the plane of symmetry 300 (Figure 5) in the horizontal direction.

[0144] The end region 55 is located on a plane having a groove bottom 56, which will be described later in this specification, and is spatially adjacent to the receiving element 70 that extends over the guide groove 50 in this end region 55. In this embodiment, the end region 55 is curved and surrounded by the rear groove edge 51.

[0145] The end region 55 may be formed (cut) deeper than the rest of the guide groove 50. The recess 59 in the end region 55 is formed to a depth of 1 mm to 6 mm. For example, the recess 59 is 4 mm deep in the end region.

[0146] Figures 10 and 11 illustrate schematic cross-sections of the guide groove 50. The guide groove 50 comprises a groove bottom 56, a rear groove edge 51, a front groove edge 510, and a groove width 58.

[0147] The guide groove 50 is defined by a groove bottom 56. In this embodiment, the groove bottom 56 has a nearly smooth surface. The groove bottom 56 may also have a structure, such as a wavy undulation. The structure may improve the guiding properties as the user receives tactile feedback regarding the guidance of the guide groove 50 through the wavy undulation. For example, the wavy undulation could be another uniformly and non-uniformly formed structure. The structure may be formed in the guide groove 50 so that the user guiding the connecting element 80 along the guide groove 50 receives tactile feedback regarding the approach to the accommodation element 70. In this example, the structure would be positioned in the guide groove 50 so that the structure in the area of ​​the guide groove 50 closer to the accommodation element 70 is more uniform or more non-uniform.

[0148] The guide groove 50 is laterally defined by the rear groove edge 51 and the front groove edge 510. As can be seen from Figures 10 / 11, the groove edges 51 and 510 can extend, for example, linearly from the outer surface 31 to the groove bottom 56. Convex or concave curvature of the groove edges 51 and / or 510 is also possible.

[0149] Angle α1 and angle α2 represent the angles at which the rear groove edge 51 and the front groove edge 510 are positioned relative to the groove bottom 56. Angle α1 and angle α2 may be constant. Angle α1 and / or angle α2 may have different values ​​in the extended shape of the guide groove. Angle α1 and angle α2 are formed independently of each other.

[0150] The groove edges 51 and 510 can be positioned perpendicularly on the groove bottom 56 at angles α1 and α2 of 90° (Figure 11A).

[0151] Preferably, the groove edges 51, 510 are inclined, for example, inclined outward (Figures 10 and 11B). For example, the groove edges 51, 510 can be positioned on the groove bottom at obtuse angles α1, α2. The angles α1, α2 can be 90° to 180°, preferably 90° to 135°. In advantageous embodiments, the angle α2 can be, for example, between 90° and 95°, and the angle α1 can be formed in various ways between 90° and 135°.

[0152] Angle α1, α2 > 90° is suitable when the face part 30 is manufactured by injection molding, because in that case the face part 30 can be easily removed from the mold. Furthermore, the outward-sloping guide groove 50 is easy to clean.

[0153] The angles α1 and α2 can be less than 90°, thereby positioning the groove edges 51 and 510 inclined inward (see Figure 11C).

[0154] Embodiments with angles α1, α2 < 90° may be advantageous because the inwardly inclined groove edges 51, 510 can provide better and more reliable guiding characteristics for the connecting element 80.

[0155] For example, inwardly projecting overhangs 57 on the groove edge 51 and / or groove edge 510 may also be particularly advantageous to utilize (see Figures 11A to 11D, third column). For example, components of a connecting element 80, such as a button plate 91 as described later in this specification, may be guided along the space between the overhang 57 and the groove bottom 56, which can improve guiding reliability, and thus the inwardly projecting overhangs 57 may improve the guiding characteristics of the guide groove 50.

[0156] The transition from the groove bottom 56 to the groove edges 51 and 510 can be given a sharp corner (Figures 11A to 11C) or a rounded edge (Figure 11D). A rounded transition may be advantageous in terms of cleaning.

[0157] Angles β1 and β2 represent the angles at which the rear groove edge 51 and the front groove edge 510 are positioned relative to the outer surface 31. Angles β1 and β2 may, for example, be constant. It is also possible that angles β1 and / or β2 have different values ​​in the extended shape of the guide groove. Angles β1 and β2 are formed independently of each other.

[0158] The groove edges 51 and 510 can descend vertically from the outer surface 31 at angles β1 and β2 of 90° (Figure 11A).

[0159] In this embodiment, angles β1 and β2 are greater than 90° (Figures 10 and 11B + 11D). For example, groove edges 51 and 510 can be positioned at obtuse angles β1 and β2 with respect to the outer surface 31. Angles β1 and β2 can be between 90° and 180°, preferably between 90° and 135°. In an advantageous embodiment, angle β2 may be between 90° and 100°, and angle β1 may be formed in various ways between 90° and 135°.

[0160] It is also possible that the groove edges 51 and 510 are positioned at acute angles β1 and β2 with respect to the outer surface 31, for example, 45 to 90° (Figure 11C).

[0161] The transition from the outer surface 31 to the groove edges 51 and 510 may be given a corner (see Figure 11, columns 1 and 3) or a rounded shape (see Figure 11, column 2). A rounded transition may be advantageous in terms of cleaning.

[0162] The groove width 58 of the guide groove 50 depends on the orientation and angles α1, α2 and β1, β2 of the groove edges 51, 510, and the width of the groove bottom 56. In this embodiment, the groove width 58 is wider than the groove bottom 56 (Figures 10 and 11B). The groove width 58 may be narrower than the groove bottom 56 (Figure 11C) or the same width as the groove bottom 56 (Figure 11A). The ratio of the groove width 58 to the width of the groove bottom 56 may be constant, for example. However, the ratio may also vary in the extended shape of the guide groove 50.

[0163] Figure 12 shows a schematic overview of the area of ​​the trench bay 54, viewed from above the rear trench edge 51. The accommodating element 70, which is located above this area and is described below in this specification, is not shown.

[0164] The trench bottom 56 of the trench bay 54 has varying widths. The trench bottom 56 of the trench bay 54 decreases in width horizontally. This means that the width W1 of the first trench bay is greater than the width W2 of the second trench bay, and the width W2 of the second trench bay is greater than the width W3 of the third trench bay.

[0165] The groove width W1 is the width of the groove bottom 56 resulting from the horizontal extension shape of the rear groove edge 51 between groove widths 58B and 58D. The groove width W2 is, by definition, the width of the groove bottom 56 between the two front web bases 73A (described later in this specification). The groove width W3 is, by definition, the width of the groove bottom 56 between the upper central web base 75A and the lower central web base 75B (described later in this specification).

[0166] The end region 55 of the guide groove 50 is located at the horizontal end of the guide groove 50 in the groove 54 between the groove width W2 and the groove width W3.

[0167] The height of the rear groove wall 51, and therefore the recess 59 of the guide groove 50, may be constant in the region of the groove bay 54. Advantageously, and in this embodiment, it is shown that the height of the rear groove wall 51 increases in the region of the groove bay 54. The height of the rear groove edge 51 may increase continuously (gradually) from width 1 to width 3 in the extended shape of the groove bay 54.

[0168] The high groove edge 51 in the groove bay 54 region, and therefore in the end region 55, increases the three-dimensional extent of the guide groove 50 in this end region 55.

[0169] The guide groove 50 and, in particular, the groove edges 51, 510, allow the user and / or patient to reach the end area 55. The user and / or patient can reach the end area 55, for example, by touching it with their hand.

[0170] In particular, it is assumed that the user and / or patient can move the connecting element 80, as described below in this specification, along the groove edge 51 and / or 510 with their finger, thereby reaching the end area 55.

[0171] In an advantageous embodiment, the horizontal extension shape of the guide groove 50 is curved 54. This allows the user and / or the patient themselves to reach the end region 55 located at the groove curve 54 by aligning themselves with the posterior groove edge 51.

[0172] For example, the user and / or patient can guide the connecting element 80, as described below in this specification, along the rear groove edge 51 to the end region 55, where it can be attached by being housed in the housing element 70 of the respiratory mask 100, as described below.

[0173] As can be seen in Figure 4, in this embodiment, two anchor points 60 / 61 are placed at both lower corner points 43 / 44 of the face part 30. It is also possible to place additional anchor points on the face part 30. The additional anchor points can be placed away from the lower corner points 43 / 44, for example, at the upper 310.

[0174] The anchor points 60 / 61 are located on either side of the plane of symmetry 300, and accordingly, as already described, indicate the left anchor point 60 and the right anchor point 61. Preferably, the anchor points 60 / 61 are as far away from the plane of symmetry 300 as possible.

[0175] Figure 5 shows, for example, that two anchor points 60 / 61 are positioned between the intermediate plane 450 and the rear plane 400. Each anchor point 60 / 61 includes a housing element 70 and a connecting element 80.

[0176] The outer surface 31 is provided with housing elements 70 at anchor points 60 / 61, respectively. Figures 13 to 16 show embodiments for the housing elements 70.

[0177] Figure 13 shows an overview view of the accommodating element 70 from above. The accommodating element 70 is an integrated component consisting of the outer surface 31 and the rear groove edge 51.

[0178] It is advantageous that the receiving element 70 is made from a material that has, on the one hand, a certain degree of flexibility and low stress crack sensitivity, and on the other hand, sufficient stability. The receiving element 70 is, for example, a one-piece and is made from the same material as the face part 30. A two-piece embodiment is also conceivable. The receiving element 70 is made from, for example, polyamide PA12. Polyamide PA12 is very stable, has low stress crack sensitivity, and is temperature resistant.

[0179] The containment element 70 is positioned between the widths W2 and W3 of the groove 54 (see Figure 12) and rests over (straddles) the end region 55 of the guide groove 50.

[0180] In this embodiment, the accommodation element 70 includes two webs 73, one bridge 74, an accommodation hole (accommodation diameter) Y, and an accommodation opening X. In addition, the accommodation element may include, for example, at least one central web 75 and at least one, preferably two, through holes 76.

[0181] Figure 14 shows a detailed plan view of the housing element 70. Figure 15 shows a schematic view of the housing element 70 from the front 520. Figure 16 shows a partial view of the face part 30 from the front 520, showing the housing element 70 from the front 520.

[0182] The web 73 extends from the rear groove edge 51. The web 73 rises above the groove bottom 56 of the guide groove 50 and does not substantially contact the groove bottom 56 (see Figure 15). The web is connected to the rear groove edge 51 via the web base surface 73F.

[0183] The web base surface 73F has a width of 3 mm to 6 mm, for example, 5 mm, and extends from the front web base 73A to the rear web base 73B.

[0184] The width of the web 73 may be wider at the web base surface 73F (e.g., 5 mm). In the further extended shape, the width of the web 73 may be reduced to a range of 4 mm to 1 mm. The web is substantially, for example, 3.3 mm wide.

[0185] The web 73 can have a certain material thickness, for example, 1 mm to 4 mm, for example, 2 mm in thickness. The web 73 can be 2 mm to 20 mm in length, for example, 14 mm. The web 73 is formed by adjusting its width, length, and thickness to each other to provide sufficient flexibility.

[0186] Web 73 can extend, for example, in a curved or bent manner. This means that the web does not need to extend in a straight line.

[0187] The angle ε represents the angle at which the web 73 is positioned relative to the groove bottom 56 (see Figure 15). The web 73 may be positioned perpendicular to the groove bottom 56 at an angle ε of 90°. Preferably, the web 73 is positioned at an angle ε of 30° to 90° relative to the groove bottom 56, for example, at an angle ε of 30° to 60°.

[0188] A bridge 74 is positioned next to the web 73. The bridge 74 and the web 73 are formed as a single unit, for example.

[0189] In this embodiment, the bridge 74 is formed to have the same width and thickness as the web 73, while the bridge 74 may be formed to be longer than the web 73.

[0190] Bridge 74 has a thickness of 1mm to 4mm, for example, 2mm. Bridge 74 can be 10mm to 30mm in length, for example, 14mm. Bridge 74 has a width of 1mm to 4mm, for example, 2.3mm.

[0191] The bridge 74 is formed, for example, in a circular shape. The bridge 74 is not formed in a closed circular shape, but is interrupted by a receiving opening X. The receiving opening X is formed with a width of 3 mm to 12 mm, preferably 5 mm to 8 mm, for example 5.8 mm.

[0192] The accommodating opening X is oriented forward 520. The accommodating opening X forms the bridge 74 in a substantially semicircular shape. The accommodating opening X is formed to accommodate the neck portion 93 of the connecting element 80, which is described below in this specification.

[0193] The receiving opening X is formed to be somewhat smaller than the diameter of the neck portion 93D, thereby allowing the neck portion to be accommodated only by pressure and the slight flexibility of the receiving element 70.

[0194] The bridge 74 has a housing hole Y. The housing hole (housing diameter) Y of the bridge 74 is 3 mm to 12 mm, preferably 5 mm to 8 mm, for example 6.2 mm.

[0195] The housing hole Y is formed to be somewhat larger than the housing opening X. The housing hole Y is formed to accommodate the neck portion 91 of the connecting element 80 as described below in this specification. The housing hole (housing diameter) Y is formed to be somewhat larger than the diameter of the neck portion 93D.

[0196] The web 73 is bent and formed so that the angle ε rises above the groove bottom 56, creating a siding space 77 between the web 73, the bridge 74, and the groove bottom 56 (see Figures 15 and 16).

[0197] The accommodating space 77 is located in the end region 55 (see Figure 13). The accommodating space 77 has a height of 2 mm to 8 mm, for example, 4 mm. The accommodating space 77 is formed to accommodate the button plate 91, as described below in this specification, including the protruding portion 92 of the connecting element 80. Therefore, the depth of the accommodating space 77 is formed to be greater than the length 91L of the button plate.

[0198] At least one central web 75 connects the bridge 74 to the outer surface 31. In this embodiment, the central web 75 is located at the halfway point of the semicircular bridge 74 (Figure 13).

[0199] Figure 14 shows that the central web 75 is connected to the rear groove edge 51 via the central web base surface 75F. The central web base surface 75F has a width of 1 to 6 mm, for example, 3 mm, and extends from the upper central web base 75A to the lower central web base 75B. The width of the central web 75 can be made wider at the central web base surface 75F, for example, to 3 mm, and in further extended shapes, the width can be reduced to, for example, 2 mm.

[0200] The width of the central web base surface 75F from the upper central web base 75A to the lower central web base 75B corresponds to the aforementioned width W3 of the funnel-shaped groove (see Figure 12).

[0201] At least one through-hole 76, in this embodiment two through-holes 76, is located between the central web 75 and the web 73. The through-holes 76 enable a lighter structural form and material savings. In addition, depending on the material selected, flexibility can be achieved to ensure that the connecting element 80 can be easily engaged and disengaged.

[0202] It is also conceivable that the receiving element 70 may be formed without the through hole 76 and the central web 75. In this case, the rear groove wall 51 and the outer surface 31 would transition directly to the bridge 74 and the web 73 (not shown).

[0203] Figures 17 to 19 show an embodiment of the connecting element 80 according to the present invention. Figure 17 is a plan view of the connecting element 80 from the rear 420. Figure 18 is a perspective view of the connecting element 80 seen obliquely from the front 520. Figure 19 is a side view of the connecting element 80.

[0204] The connecting element 80 is a detachable component of the respiratory mask 100. The connecting element 80 can be made from any material that has sufficient stability. Preferably, the connecting element 80 is made from the same material as the face component 30. Preferably, the connecting element 80 is made from rigid plastic. Suitable plastics include, for example, polyamide, polycarbonate, polyoxymethylene, polysulfone, and polypropylene. For example, the connecting element 80 is made from polyamide PA12. The connecting element 80 is, for example, made entirely from polyamide PA12. Different components of the connecting element 80 may be made from different materials.

[0205] Figure 17 shows, for example, an embodiment of the connecting element 80 in a plan view from the rear 420. This figure shows the surface facing the face component 30 (not shown) after it has been attached to the housing element 70. By definition, this surface is the inner bottom surface (base surface) 84 of the connecting element 80. In this embodiment, the connecting element 80 has a hexagonal bottom surface. The bottom surface may have any other suitable shape.

[0206] The bottom surface is formed in a flat shape. Therefore, in this embodiment, the bottom surface of the connecting element 80 is not bent or curved. It is also conceivable that the bottom surface of the connecting element 80 is formed to be bent or curved.

[0207] The connecting element 80 includes a mounting element 90. By definition, the mounting element 90 is located at the upper end 94 of the connecting element 80. In addition, the connecting element 80 includes a retaining web 83 and a cavity 82. By definition, the retaining web 83 and the cavity 82 are located at the lower end 95 of the connecting element 80. Thus, the mounting element 90 and the retaining web 83 are located opposite each other (on opposite sides) of the connecting element.

[0208] The connecting element 80 can be manually attached to the face part 30 via the mounting element 90, or more precisely, to the housing element 70 of the face part 30. The attachment is reversible, meaning that it can be manually created and undone at any time without permanently altering the material.

[0209] A strap 96 (not shown) can extend through the cavity 82. The strap 96 can extend on the retaining web 83 and is used to attach the respiratory mask 100 to the head of a user and / or patient (not shown).

[0210] In this embodiment, the connecting element 80 is formed axially symmetric with respect to the y-axis.

[0211] The connecting element 80 has a length of 100 mm to 10 mm, preferably 50 mm to 20 mm, for example, 35 mm. The connecting element 80 has a maximum width of 80 mm to 10 mm, preferably 40 mm to 20 mm, for example, 27 cm. The bottom surface of the connecting element 80 has a thickness of 1 mm to 3 mm, for example, 2 mm.

[0212] Figure 18 shows a perspective view of the connecting element 80, viewed obliquely from the front 520. From Figure 18, it can be seen that the connecting element 80 comprises a circumferential side wall 85 having at least one, preferably two, grip recesses 86. The grip recesses 86 are provided with at least one structural element 88.

[0213] The connecting element 80 has an overall length of, for example, 35 mm (see above). The grip recess 86 has a length of 5 mm to 30 mm, preferably 10 to 20 mm, for example 17 mm. In other words, it is preferable that the grip recess 86 extends over approximately 50% of the length of the connecting element 80.

[0214] Figure 19 shows the connecting element 80 from the side. From Figure 19, it can be seen that the side wall 85 can be formed with various widths. The width of the side wall 85 is in the range of 20 mm to 1 mm, preferably 15 mm to 1 mm. In this embodiment, the width of the side wall 85 is approximately 2 mm (B1) at the upper end 94, and the width increases.

[0215] The side wall 85 has a maximum width (B5) of approximately 10 mm at the height of the grip recess 86. The side wall 85 tapers again towards its initial width (B1) after the grip recess 86. Thus, in this embodiment, the grip recess 86 is approximately five times the width of the side wall 85 at the upper end 94 or lower end 95 of the connecting element 80.

[0216] The grip recess 86 is used to grasp the connecting element 80 with two fingers, for example, the index finger and the thumb. The length and width of the grip recess 86 are selected in particular to allow the user and / or patient to grasp the connecting element 80 well and securely with two fingers.

[0217] The outer wall 87, or side wall 85, of the grip recess 86 at its height has at least one, preferably several, for example, six structural elements 88. The structural elements 88 are used to enhance the gripability (Griffigkeit) of the grip recess 86.

[0218] At least one structural element 88 comprises, for example, at least one protrusion, such as a rib, corrugation, grid structure, net, dot (spot), or similar. In this embodiment, the structural element 88 is formed in the form of a rib-like protrusion located on the grip recess outer wall 87.

[0219] The grip of the grip recess 86 is enhanced by the structural element 88 of the grip recess exterior wall 87. The shape of the structural element 88 is selected so that it is optimally formed in terms of grip, comfort, and stability.

[0220] In contrast, it is preferable that the inner wall 89 of the grip recess be formed smoothly (see Figure 18). Forming the inner wall 89 of the grip recess smoothly is advantageous because it reduces material and therefore weight, and makes it easier and more efficient to clean the inner wall 89 of the grip recess.

[0221] The connecting element 80 includes a mounting element 90. Figure 20 shows details of the mounting element 90. The connecting element 80 and the mounting element 90 can be formed as one piece or two pieces. In this embodiment, the connecting element 80 and the mounting element 90 are formed as one piece. The mounting element 90 is a component of the connecting element 80, and the connecting element 80 and the mounting element 90 are made of the same material.

[0222] The mounting element 90 comprises a button plate 91, an overhang 92, and a neck portion 93. The button plate 91 is connected to the inner bottom surface 84 of the connecting element 80 via the neck portion 93.

[0223] The neck portion 93 is rounded or curved and has a maximum diameter 93D of 3 mm to 12 mm, for example, 6 mm. The diameter 93D is formed so that the neck portion 93 can be passed through the receiving opening X (Figure 13) with only slight pressure. The diameter 93D is formed to be somewhat larger than the receiving opening X. The diameter 93D is formed to be somewhat smaller than the receiving hole (receiving diameter) Y (Figure 13).

[0224] The button plate 91 is round or rounded and has a maximum diameter 91D of 3mm to 14mm, for example, 8mm. The diameter 91D of the button plate is greater than the diameter 93D of the neck portion.

[0225] When the neck portion 93 is inserted through the receiving opening X into the receiving hole Y, the button plate 91 enters the receiving space 77. The button plate 91 is used to fix the receiving element 70 into the receiving space 77 (Figure 15). Advantageously, a cavity 97 that is open on only one side can be placed on the button plate 91. The cavity 97 helps to avoid material accumulation in the plastic components of the button plate.

[0226] Figure 20 clearly shows that the diameter 91D of the button plate is larger than the diameter 93D of the neck portion, and that the transition from the neck portion 93 to the button plate 91 is linear on the upper side. Since the diameter 91D of the button plate is larger than the diameter 93D of the neck portion, the button plate 91 protrudes beyond the diameter 93D of the neck portion, creating an overhang 92. Therefore, the button plate 91 has an overhang 92 that protrudes from the circumference 93D of the neck portion.

[0227] The diameter 93D of the neck gradually transitions to the diameter 91D of the button plate along the maximum length 92L of the overhang. The angle δ represents the angle at which the overhang 92 is positioned relative to the neck 93. The angle δ can be, for example, 90 to 135°.

[0228] The neck portion 93 has an upper length 93L1 and a lower length 93L2, where the upper length 93L1 is smaller than the lower length 93L2. Therefore, in the diagram shown in Figure 20, the neck portion is positioned at an angle γ with respect to the side wall 85. The angle γ can be, for example, 90° to 135°.

[0229] The connecting element 80 has a cavity 82 and a retaining web 83 on the opposite side of the mounting element 90 (see Figures 17 and 18). Thus, the cavity 82 and the retaining web 83 are located at the lower end 95 of the connecting element 80. The retaining web 83 is created by the fact that the bottom surface of the connecting element 80 has a cavity 82. The retaining web is formed as part of the side wall 85 of the connecting element 80 and is located at the lower end 95 of the connecting element 80.

[0230] The cavity 82 is formed to accommodate a strap 96 (not shown). The strap 96 can extend through the cavity onto the retaining web 83 on its flat side. The cavity 82 is sized and shaped so that the strap 96 can be easily and securely inserted into the cavity. In this embodiment, the cavity 82 is formed as an elongated opening. The cavity has a crescent-shaped curvature.

[0231] The cavity 82 has a width of 80 mm to 10 mm, preferably 40 mm to 15 mm, for example, 22 mm. The cavity 82 has a height of 25 mm to 2 mm, preferably 10 mm to 3 mm, for example, 4.1 mm. It is advantageous that the cavity 82 is formed to a width that can accommodate a suitable strap 96. Furthermore, the cavity 82 is formed to a height that allows the strap 96 to be inserted into the cavity without force.

[0232] The void 82 is defined by the bottom surface of the connecting element 80. At the lower end 95 of the connecting element 80, the void 82 is defined by the side wall 85. The side wall 85 at the lower end 95 includes a retaining web 83. In other words, the retaining web 83 is formed because the bottom surface of the connecting element 80 has a void 82.

[0233] The retaining web 83 is sized and shaped to securely hold the strap 96. In this embodiment, the retaining web 83 is made from the same material as the connecting element 80. In other words, the retaining web 83 is a component of the connecting element 80.

[0234] The retaining web 83 has varying thicknesses. The thickness of the retaining web is 10 mm to 1 mm, for example, 5 mm to 2 mm. The thickness of the retaining web is maximum in the center, for example, 4 mm, and decreases to a width of 2.3 mm on each side. The retaining web 83 is formed to a width that can withstand the tensile force that a suitable strap 96 can apply to the connecting element 80.

[0235] Figure 21 shows a connecting element 80 connected to a housing element 70 via a mounting element 90. The housing element 70 can be manually connected to the connecting element 80. The connection between the housing element 70 and the connecting element 80 is reversible. The connecting element 80 is movably supported after the connection between the housing element 70 and the connecting element 80. The connecting element 80 is particularly rotatably supported.

[0236] The guide groove 50 allows the user and / or patient to guide the connecting element 80 to the housing element 70. The mounting element 90 of the connecting element 80 can be inserted into the guide groove 50, for example, at the groove entrance 52 (Figure 8). The button plate 91 of the mounting element 90 can then be guided to the groove bottom 56 and along the groove edges 51 and / or 510 (Figure 8). In this case, the groove edges 51 and 510 are used for directional guidance, leading the housing element 70 towards the end region 55 of the guide groove over which it rests.

[0237] When the end region 55 is reached, the neck portion 93 reaches the housing hole Y (Figure 13 / 14) through the housing opening X (Figure 13 / 14), where the button plate 91 of the connecting element 80 can reach the housing space 77, and is largely surrounded by the central web 74. This positions the button plate 91 and the protruding portion 92 in the housing space 77, which results in fixation to the housing element 70.

[0238] Because the housing opening X is minimally smaller than the diameter 93D of the neck, and because the material of the housing element 80 is somewhat flexible, the mounting element 90 can be passed through the housing opening X to the housing space 77 and the housing hole Y with only a slight push. The locking of the mounting element 90 to the housing element can be noticed perceptually and audibly.

[0239] As soon as the mounting element 90 enters the housing space 77 and housing hole Y, it becomes impossible to remove the mounting element 90 from there without applying force.

[0240] Since the housing hole (housing diameter) Y is at least slightly larger than the diameter 93D of the neck portion of the mounting element 90, the connection is movable and, in particular, rotatably supported.

[0241] By connecting at least two connecting elements 90 to the face component 30, the user and / or patient can securely and reversibly attach the respiratory mask 100 to their head via straps 96 (not shown) located on the connecting elements 90.

[0242] The guide groove 50 provides easy and reliable handling for the patient and / or user. The aforementioned characteristics of the guide groove 50 provide sufficient tactile feedback, ensuring successful attachment of the respiratory mask 100 to the head even when visibility is limited or absent. The orientation of the respiratory mask 100 and the placement of the containment elements 80 can be easily determined by touch.

[0243] In addition, the connection of the connecting element 80 to the housing element 90 is easy to handle and does not require special finger dexterity. The user can easily and securely grasp the connecting element 80 in the grip recess 86, guide it along the guide groove to the housing element 80, and then push the mounting element 90 into the housing opening X with only a slight press. For this reason, the user does not need to manipulate any other elements. [Explanation of symbols]

[0244] 100 Respiratory Masks 150 Hose Connection System 200 horizontal plane 210 Left 220 Right 300 Symmetry Plane 310 Upper 320 Downward 400 posterior plane 420 rear 450 Intermediate plane 500 front plane 520 forward 10 frame parts 12 Forehead pads 13 Upper anchor point 14 connection points 20 Transition Parts 30 facial parts 31 Exterior 32 stickers 33 Outer edge 34 Connection points 35 Intermediate member 36 Exit 37 Exit edge 38 Locking element 39 Notch elements 40 Tip 41 Inner self 43. Corner point in the lower left 44. The corner point in the lower right 45 Bottom 50 guide grooves 51 Rear groove edge 510 Front groove edge 52 Ditch entrance 53 Groove passage 54 Gouwan 55 Edge area 56 Groove bottom 57 Protruding section 58 groove width 58A Groove width A 58B Groove width B 58C Groove width C 58D Groove width D 58E Groove width E W1 (Wide width of trench) W2 (Wide width of trench) W3 (Wide width 3) α1 Angle α α2 Angle α β1 Angle β β2 angle β 59 Recess 60 Left Anchor Point 61 Right anchor point 70 containment elements X housing opening Y-shaped housing hole (housing diameter) 73 Web 73F Web base surface 73A Front web base 73B Rear web base ε angle ε 74 Bridge 75 Central Web 75F Central web base surface 75A Upper central web base 75B Lower central web base 76 Through hole 77 Containment space 80 connection elements 81 Outer bottom surface 82 Blank 83 Retaining Web 84 Inner bottom surface 85 Side wall B1 Side wall width B1 B5 Side wall width B5 86 Grip recess 87 Grip recess exterior wall 88 Structural Elements 89 Grip recess inner wall 90 Mounting elements 91 Button Plate 91D Button plate diameter 91L Button plate length 92 Protruding section 92L Maximum length of the overhang 93 Neck 93D neck diameter 94 Upper end 95 bottom end 96 Straps 97 Hollow YA Y-axis

Claims

1. 1. A respiratory mask (100) having a face piece (30) including at least one plane of symmetry (300), a circumferential seal (32), and an outlet (36), the face piece (30) having an outer surface (31) including at least two anchor points (60 / 61) arranged on either side of the plane of symmetry (300), the at least two anchor points (60 / 61) each including a receiving element (70) for detachably connecting with a connecting element (80), the connecting element (80) being formed to receive a strap (96), the respiratory mask (100) characterized in that at least one guide area (50) is arranged next to the receiving element (70).

2. 2. The respiratory mask (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that the guide area (50) is formed to guide the connecting element (80) into the receiving element (70), the guide area (50) being formed by a recess (59) and / or by a protrusion on the outer surface (31) of the face piece (30).

3. 2. The respiratory mask (100) of claim 1, characterized in that the guide areas (50) are arranged on either side of the plane of symmetry (300) on the face piece (30).

4. 2. The respiratory mask (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that the guide area (50) is formed as a guide groove, the guide groove (50) being formed by a recess (59).

5. The respiratory mask (100) according to claim 4, characterized in that the guide groove (50) extends by 5% to 100% of the length of the facial part (30), preferably by 50% to 100% of the length of the facial part (30), for example by 95% or more.

6. 5. The respiratory mask (100) of claim 4, wherein the guide groove (50) includes a groove inlet (52) that is continuously deepened to form a transition from the outer surface (31) to the final recess (59), the groove inlet (52) being located at the upper end (310) of the face piece (30).

7. 5. The respiratory mask (100) of claim 4, wherein the guide groove (50) includes a groove bottom (56), a rear groove edge (51), a front groove edge (510), and an end region (55), the end region (55) being a region of the groove bottom (56) that is surrounded by at least one of the rear groove edge (51) and the front groove edge (510).

8. 8. Respiratory mask (100) according to claim 7, characterized in that the surface of the groove bottom (56) is formed smooth and / or structured.

9. A respiratory mask (100) as described in claim 7, characterized in that the surfaces of the rear groove edge (51) and the front groove edge (510) are formed smooth and / or structured.

10. A respiratory mask (100) as described in claim 7, characterized in that the heights of the rear groove edge (51) and the front groove edge (510) are formed at constant and / or varying heights, whereby the recess (59) of the guide groove (50) is formed at constant and / or varying depths, the recess (59) being formed at a depth in the range of 0.5 mm to 6 mm.

11. 8. The respiratory mask (100) according to claim 7, characterized in that the recess (59) is formed with a variable depth, the recess (59) being formed with a depth of 1 mm to 6 mm, preferably 4 mm, in the end region (55) and the recess (59) being formed with a depth of substantially 0.8 mm to 2 mm, preferably 1 mm, in other regions of the guide groove (50).

12. 8. The respiratory mask (100) of claim 7, characterized in that the guide groove (50) has a variable groove width (58), a first section being formed as a groove passage (53) having a constant groove width (58A), the groove width (58) increasing continuously after the groove passage (53) through groove width (58B) to groove width (58C), and the groove width (58) decreasing continuously after reaching groove width (58C) through groove width (58D) to groove width (58E).

13. 13. The respiratory mask (100) according to claim 12, characterized in that in the region of the groove width (58C), the rear groove edge (51) is located maximally far from the plane of symmetry (300) and the front groove edge (510) is located maximally close to the plane of symmetry (300).

14. 13. The respiratory mask (100) according to claim 12, characterized in that the rear groove edge (51) is recessed in an arc in the region between the groove width (58B) and the groove width (58D), so that in this region the guide groove (50) is formed as a groove bay (54) including the end region (55), the end region (55) being located at a maximum distance from the plane of symmetry (300).

15. 15. The respiratory mask (100) according to claim 14, characterized in that the groove bay (54) is surrounded by the rear groove edge (51) and the groove bay width (W) decreases continuously in a horizontal extension shape as the distance from the plane of symmetry increases.

16. 8. Respiratory mask (100) according to claim 7, characterized in that the height of the rear groove edge (51) can increase in the region of the end region (55).

17. 8. The respiratory mask (100) according to claim 7, characterized in that the end region (55) of the guide groove (50) is arranged spatially next to the storage element (70), the storage element (70) hanging over the end region (55) of the guide groove (50) so as to create a storage space (77).

18. 18. The respiratory mask (100) according to claim 17, characterized in that the storage element (70) comprises two webs (73), one bridge (74), one storage hole (Y) and one storage opening (X), the bridge (74) being made integral with the web (73), the bridge (74) being arranged spatially separated from the groove bottom (56), and the web (73), the bridge (74) and the groove bottom (56) defining the storage space (77).

19. 19. The respiratory mask (100) according to claim 18, characterized in that the web (73) is arranged at an angle (ε) relative to the groove base (56), the value of the angle (ε) being in the range of 30° to 90°, preferably in the range of 30° to 60°.

20. 20. The respiratory mask (100) of claim 18, characterized in that the bridge (74) is at least partially formed in a circle with receiving holes (Y), the bridge (74) being interrupted by receiving openings (X).

21. 19. The respiratory mask (100) according to claim 18, characterized in that the storage element (70) comprises at least one central web (75) and at least one, preferably two, through holes (76), said central web being arranged between said bridge (74) and said outer surface (31).

22. 19. Respiratory mask (100) according to claim 18, characterized in that the receiving opening (X) is oriented towards the front (520).

23. 2. The respiratory mask (100) of claim 1, wherein the connection element (80) is a removable member of the respiratory mask (100), and the storage element (70) is configured and formed to removably store the connection element (80) by an attachment element (90) formed on the connection element (80).

24. 2. Respiratory mask (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that the connecting element (80) is made from the same material as the face piece (30).

25. The connecting element (80) is a detachable member of the respiratory mask (100), and the accommodating element (70) is configured and formed to detachably accommodate the connecting element (80) by means of an attachment element (90) formed on the connecting element (80), 19. The respiratory mask (100) according to claim 18, characterized in that the connection element (80) is reversibly connected to the accommodation element (70) by accommodating the attachment element (90) in the accommodation hole (Y) and the accommodation space (77).

26. 2. Respiratory mask (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that the connection of the connecting element (80) to the receiving element (70) is supported movably, in particular for rotational movement.

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