Headgear and connecting structures for a patient interface

Abstract

A rear portion for a headgear for a patient interface and associated connecting structures for a patient interface are provided. The rear portion has a first panel and a second panel. The headgear has a non-lapped region of the first panel. The headgear has a lapped region of the first panel and the second panel at which the first panel and the second panel respectively overlap and underlap each other and are fused together. The headgear has a non-lapped region of the second panel.

Description

HEADGEAR AND CONNECTING STRUCTURES FOR A PATIENT INTERFACEFIELD OF TECHNOLOGY

[0001] The present invention relates to headgear and associated connecting structures for a patient interface. More particularly but not solely the present invention relates to rear portions for such headgear.BACKGROUND

[0002] Respiratory interfaces or masks are used to provide positive pressure respiratory gas or gases, such as air in PAP (positive airway pressure) therapy such as CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) VPAP (variable positive airway pressure) and BiPAP (bilevel positive airway pressure) therapy, or non-invasive ventilation (NIV), or high flow rate therapy, for example.

[0003] A respiratory interface may comprise a nasal, oral, or full face, i.e., both nasal and oral, interface. In turn an interface may be an indirect interface which covers the nose, mouth, or both, or a direct interface such as an interface comprising nasal nozzles or pillows or similar which enter into the nares of the wearer.

[0004] Headgear for a respiratory interfaces may comprise at least two straps which in use extend from a rear part of the headgear along the left and right sides of the patient's head to connect to the interface. Other configurations may include at least four straps comprising two sets of an upper and a lower strap of each side.

[0005] Headgear may also comprise a top strap or a forehead strap, and respiratory headgear may be in various other forms. For example, headgear may comprise only a top strap or forehead strap or an occipital loop, and a single strap on either side of the patient's head or face to the mask. Typically, the length of one or more of the headgear straps may be adjustable so that a patient can don the interface and headgear when the headgear strap or straps are loose and then tighten the straps when the interface and headgear are in position, to hold the mask and headgear securely in position thereafter until removal or doffing.SUMMARY

[0006] This international application claims priority to and incorporates by reference in its entirety U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 644,238, filed 8 May 2024.

[0007] Patients may use various types of respiratory interfaces or masks for the provision of different respiratory therapies. To enable the respiratory therapy to be provided to the patient the interface must be retained in some way relative to either or both of the patient's mouth and nose. This is particularly the case where the respiratory therapy involves the provision of pressurised gases being delivered to the patient's airways; the interface must be retained against the patient's face to provide at least some degree of a seal and prevent undesirable leakage of therespiratory therapy gases from the periphery of the interface. A headgear may be utilised to provide this function of retaining the interface on the patient's face.

[0008] Respiratory interfaces or masks may be used in a variety of settings, including in hospital environments and in patients' homes. Various respiratory therapies may be provided either or both when a patient is awake or while they sleep.

[0009] While a primary function of the headgear may be to retain the interface to the patient's face to counteract any pressure-generated forces and / or to create a seal with the patient's face, how the headgear transfers forces to the patient's head may significantly influence the patient's comfort and potentially also their compliance with the respiratory therapy. Loadcarrying portions of the headgear may be liable to cause irritation or discomfort. This may particularly be the case where an interface and headgear are to be worn for an extended period of time, such as when sleeping during CPAP therapy or NIV therapy for example.

[0010] Where an interface and headgear are used when sleeping, at least some parts of the headgear may be positioned between the patient's head and the bed. This may present further opportunities for discomfort for the patient, as a localised thickness of the headgear and / or any rigid component may cause increased pressures to be experienced by their head when the headgear is laid on.

[0011] Different patients also may have significantly different anatomies. For example, they may have different circumferences of their heads, different face and skull shapes, and different tissue depths and sensitivities in different regions. This may be exemplified at the back of a patient's head, where some patients may have predominantly muscular necks or necks which taper significantly from their skulls, while other patients have more fat tissue or necks which do not taper as significantly from their skulls. These differences may result in different fits or comfort levels for a given headgear between different patients.

[0012] While a headgear may be adjusted in some ways to fit different patients, for example by shortening or lengthening one or more of the straps, such adjustments may not adequately compensate for the differences in anatomy between patients. Such adjustments may additionally or alternatively not provide for sufficient support or at least the sufficient sensation of support of the headgear on the patient's head. Ideally a headgear may be adjusted to comfortably suit the patient's anatomy, but also securely and snugly fit to the patient's head in the adjusted state.

[0013] In addition to fit constraints for different patients, it may be desirable for a headgear to perform various secondary functions in addition to retaining the interface on the patient's face. For example, it may be desirable to allow a "pull-away" function, where the headgear in a condition retaining the interface to the patient's face allows the user to pull the interface away from contactwith their face. This may be to allow the patient to speak more clearly to someone, to reposition the patient interface on their face, or to provide a brief respite from the therapy.

[0014] A headgear itself may have particular and localised requirements for its structure and function. For example, to retain any given respiratory interface with some force, some regions of a headgear may experience greater loads than others. There may also be location specific needs for stiffness, flexibility, softness, or any number of other properties.

[0015] The disclosure below provides for a number of characterised aspects. It will be appreciated that these aspects could be combined in whole or in part to achieve the advantages of the invention.

[0016] In a first aspect, the present disclosure provides a rear portion for a headgear for a patient interface, the rear portion comprising a first panel and a second panel and each of: a) a non-lapped region of the first panel, b) a lapped region of the first panel and the second panel at which the first panel and the second panel respectively overlap and underlap each other and are fused together, and c) a non-lapped region of the second panel.

[0017] The rear portion comprises the non-lapped region of the first panel, the lapped region of the first panel and the second panel, and the non-lapped region of the second panel between a lower extent of the rear portion and an upper extent of the rear portion.

[0018] The rear portion comprises the non-lapped region of the first panel, the lapped region of the first panel and the second panel, and the non-lapped region of the second panel at or towards a central region of the rear portion.

[0019] The rear portion has a first strap connection portion and a second strap connection portion, and the non-lapped region of the first panel, the lapped region of the first panel and the second panel, and the non-lapped region of the second panel at or towards a central region of the rear portion are each located between the first strap connection portion and the second strap connection portion.

[0020] The non-lapped region of the first panel is adjacent to the lapped region of the first panel and the second panel.

[0021] The non-lapped region of the second panel is adjacent to the lapped region of the first panel and the second panel.

[0022] The non-lapped region of the first panel defines the lower extent of the rear portion at the central region thereof.

[0023] The non-lapped region of the second panel defines the upper extent of the rear portion at the central region thereof.

[0024] The lapped region of the first panel and the second panel is located away from both the upper and lower extents of the rear portion.

[0025] At or towards the central region of the rear portion and along a cross-section taken between the upper extent and the lower extent of the rear portion at the central region, the rear portion comprises the non-lapped region of the first panel, the lapped region of the first panel and the second panel, and the non-lapped region of the second panel.

[0026] A width, taken in a direction transverse to a lateral direction, of the non-lapped region of the second panel reduces between the central region of the rear portion and respective first lateral regions of the rear portion, the first lateral regions each being adjacent to the central region.

[0027] The width of the non-lapped region of the second panel increases between the first lateral regions and respectively peripherally located second lateral regions.

[0028] The first panel has a first upper arm and a second upper arm, and a first lower arm and a second lower arm.

[0029] The second panel has a first lower arm and a second lower arm, and a width of the first lower arm and second lower arm of the first panel, taken in a direction transverse to a local direction in which the arms extend, is greater than a corresponding width of each of the first lower arm and second lower arm of the second panel.

[0030] A width of the first upper arm and the second upper arm, taken in a direction transverse to a local direction in which the arms extend, is less than a corresponding width of each of the first lower arm and the second lower arm.

[0031] The first upper arm and the second upper arm are longer than the first lower arm and the second lower arm.

[0032] The first upper arm and the second upper arm are each about 4 to about 8 times longer than either of the first lower arm and the second lower arm.

[0033] When the rear portion is laid flat, the first upper arm and the second upper arm each have a proximal portion and a distal portion, and an orientation of the first upper arm and the second upper arm each changes between the proximal portion and the distal portion.

[0034] The distal portion of each of the first upper arm and the second upper arm are oriented to extend closer to a lateral direction than the proximal portion of each of the first upper arm and the second upper arm.

[0035] The first panel comprises a body and the first upper arm and the second upper arm extend therefrom and are each longer than the first lower arm and the second lower arm, which also extend from the body of the first panel.

[0036] The first upper arm and the second upper arm of the first panel each extend laterally further from the body of the first panel than each of the first lower arm and the second lower arm.

[0037] The first upper arm and the second upper arm each taper in width towards their lateral extents.

[0038] The first upper arm and the second upper arm each increase in width towards their lateral extents.

[0039] The lapped region of the first panel and the second panel at an inside of the rear portion which is for facing a patient's head when worn is defined by the first panel.

[0040] The lapped region of the first panel and the second panel at an outside of the rear portion which is for location away from a patient's head when worn is defined by the second panel.

[0041] The first panel and the second panel each have different stretch properties.

[0042] The first panel and the second panel are both stretchable, and the first panel is more stretchable than the second panel.

[0043] The non-lapped region of the second panel is a first non-lapped region of the second panel, and the rear portion comprises a first upper side strap connection portion and a second upper strap connection portion and a first lower strap connection portion and a second lower strap connection portion, wherein each of the first upper side strap connection portion, the second upper strap connection portion, the first lower strap connection portion, and the second lower strap connection portion are defined by respective second non-lapped regions of the second panel.

[0044] The first upper side strap connection portion, the second upper strap connection portion, the first lower strap connection portion, and the second lower strap connection portion are each provided respectively at a first upper arm, a second upper arm, a first lower arm, and a second lower arm of the rear portion and within the second non-lapped regions of the second panel.

[0045] The first non-lapped region of the second panel is contiguous with the second nonlapped regions of the second panel.

[0046] The first non-lapped region of the second panel is non-contiguous with the second non-lapped regions of the second panel.

[0047] The first upper arm and the second upper arm at the upper strap connection portions have a greater width than the first lower arm and the second lower arm at the lower strap connection portions.

[0048] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a headgear for a patient interface comprising the rear portion as described herein.

[0049] The headgear further comprises a first upper side strap and a second upper strap and a first lower strap and a second lower strap, each extending from the rear portion, and wherein the first upper side strap and the second upper strap and first lower strap and the second lower strap are each sized and configured such that when the headgear is laid flat each of first upper sidestrap and second upper strap distally converges towards a respective one of the first lower strap and second lower strap.

[0050] The first upper side strap and the second upper strap and first lower strap and the second lower strap are each sized and configured such that when the headgear is laid flat a distal portion of each of the first upper side strap and the second upper strap overlaps with a respective one of the first lower strap and the second lower strap.

[0051] The first upper side strap and the second upper strap and first lower strap and the second lower strap each extend from respective non-lapped regions of the second panel, at which the second panel is not lapped by the first panel.

[0052] The headgear further comprises a first top strap and a second top strap, wherein when laid flat the first upper side strap and the second upper strap each are located between respective ones of the first top strap and the first lower strap, and second top strap and the second lower strap.

[0053] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a rear portion for a headgear for a patient interface, the rear portion comprising a first panel and a second panel, wherein an upper portion of the first panel laps a lower portion of the second panel to define a lapped region of the rear portion.

[0054] The rear portion has a head-contacting side for contacting a head of a patient in use and an opposed non-head-contacting side, and at the lapped region of the rear portion the first panel is located at the head-contacting side.

[0055] At the lapped region of the rear portion the second panel is located at the nonhead-contacting side.

[0056] A lower portion of the first panel is non-lapped and defines a first non-lapped region of the rear portion.

[0057] At the first non-lapped region both the head contacting side and non-head contacting side of the rear portion are defined by the first panel.

[0058] An upper portion of the second panel is non-lapped and defines a second nonlapped region of the rear portion.

[0059] At the second non-lapped region both the head contacting side and non-head contacting side of the rear portion are defined by the second panel.

[0060] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a headgear for a patient interface, the headgear comprising: a rear portion comprising a non-lapped region of a first panel, a lapped region of the first panel and a second panel at which the first panel and the second panel respectively overlap and underlap each other and are fused together, and a non-lapped region of the second panel, anda plurality of straps, each of the plurality of straps connected to the rear portion at respective strap connection portions of the non-lapped region of the second panel.

[0061] The strap connection portions of the non-lapped region of the second panel comprise a first upper side strap connection portion, a second upper strap connection portion, a first lower strap connection, and a second lower strap connection portion.

[0062] The plurality of strap comprise a first top strap, a second top strap, a first upper side strap, a second upper side strap, a first lower side strap, and a second lower side strap.

[0063] A first top strap and first upper side strap are connected at the first upper side strap connection portion, a second top strap and second upper strap are connected at the second upper strap connection portion, a first lower strap is connected at the first lower strap connection portion, and a second lower strap is connected at the second lower strap connection portion.

[0064] The plurality of straps are forwardly extending straps.

[0065] A width of each of the plurality of straps is substantially the same as a corresponding width of the second panel at each of the strap connection portions.

[0066] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a headgear for a patient interface, the headgear comprising: a non-lapped region of a first panel, a lapped region of the first panel and a second panel at which the first panel and the second panel respectively overlap and underlap each other and are fused together, and a non-lapped region of the second panel, wherein at a rear portion of the headgear the non-lapped region of the first panel spans the rear portion between two lateral edges thereof.

[0067] The lapped region of the first panel and the second panel comprises a first lapped region comprising a first upper side strap, a second upper side strap, a first top strap, a second top strap, and an upper part of the rear portion, and a second lapped region comprising a first lower side strap, a second lower side strap, and a lower part of the rear portion.

[0068] The non-lapped region of the second panel comprises a first non-lapped region comprising a first upper side strap, a second upper side strap, a first top strap, a second top strap, and an upper part of the rear portion, and a second non-lapped region comprising a first lower side strap, a second lower side strap, and a lower part of the rear portion, and wherein the first nonlapped region and second non-lapped region are separated by the non-lapped region of the first panel and the lapped region of the first panel and the second panel.

[0069] The lapped region of the first panel and the second panel comprises a first lapped region between the non-lapped region of the first panel and the first non-lapped region of the second panel, and a second lapped region between the non-lapped region of the first panel and the second non-lapped region of the second panel.

[0070] The non-lapped region of the first panel comprises a stretch region, having an increased stretch relative to each of the lapped region of the first panel and the second panel and the non-lapped region of the second panel.

[0071] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a headgear for a patient interface, the headgear comprising: a non-lapped region of a first panel, a lapped region of the first panel and a second panel at which the first panel and the second panel respectively overlap and underlap each other and are fused together, and a non-lapped region of the second panel, wherein the non-lapped region of the first panel includes a lower part of a rear portion of the headgear, and wherein a first lower side strap and a second lower side strap each extend from the lower part of the rear portion of the headgear, at the non-lapped region of the first panel.

[0072] The non-lapped region of the first panel at the lower part of the rear portion extends between respective lateral extents of the rear portion.

[0073] The non-lapped region of the first panel comprises a stretch region, having an increased stretch relative to each of the lapped region of the first panel and the second panel and the non-lapped region of the second panel.

[0074] The lapped region of the first panel and the second panel includes an upper part of the rear portion of the headgear.

[0075] The non-lapped region of the second panel includes an upper part of the rear portion of the headgear, the lapped region of the first panel and the second panel is interposed between the upper part of the rear portion and the lower part of the rear portion.

[0076] Where used in the foregoing statements the term "has" shall be construed non- exclusively, to mean that a named feature is present but that the presence of other features is not excluded unless the context requires otherwise.

[0077] As used herein the term "and / or" means "and" or "or", or both.

[0078] For the purposes of this specification, the term "plastic" shall be construed to mean a general term for a wide range of synthetic or semisynthetic polymerization products, and generally consisting of a hydrocarbon-based polymer.

[0079] The term "comprising" as used in the specification and claims means "consisting at least in part of." When interpreting each statement in this specification that includes the term "comprising," features other than that or those prefaced by the term may also be present. Related terms "comprise" and "comprises" are to be interpreted in the same manner.

[0080] This invention may also be said broadly to consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the specification of the application, individually or collectively, and any or all combinations of any two or more said parts, elements or features, and where specific integers are mentioned herein which have known equivalents in the art to which this invention relates, such known equivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as if individually set forth.

[0081] To those skilled in the art to which the invention relates, many changes in construction and widely differing embodiments and applications of the invention will suggest themselves without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. The disclosures and the descriptions herein are purely illustrative and are not intended to be in any sense limiting.

[0082] Other aspects of the invention may become apparent from the following description which is given by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0083] Preferred embodiments will be described by way of example only and with reference to the drawings, in which:

[0084] Figure 1 is a lay-flat view of a headgear including a rear portion, showing an outside of the headgear and its rear portion which is for facing away from a patient's head in use.

[0085] Figure 2 is a lay-flat view of a headgear including a rear portion, showing an inside of the headgear and its rear portion which is for facing a patient's head in use.

[0086] Figure 3 is a view of a first panel of a rear portion for a headgear.

[0087] Figure 4 is a view of a second panel of a rear portion for a headgear.

[0088] Figure 5 is a view of the non-patient facing first side of a rear portion for a headgear.

[0089] Figure 6 is a view of the rear portion of Figure 5, showing the outline of the first panel behind the second panel.

[0090] Figure 7 is a view of the patient-facing second side of a rear portion for a headgear.

[0091] Figure 8 is a view of the rear portion of Figure 6, showing the outline of the second panel behind the first panel.

[0092] Figure 9 is a view of a rear portion for a headgear.

[0093] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view through the rear portion of Figure 9 taken through the line A-A.

[0094] Figure 11 is a lay-flat view of a headgear.

[0095] Figure 12 is a view of the end portions of a first upper side strap and a first lower strap.

[0096] Figure 13 is a view of an end portion of a strap.

[0097] Figure 14 is a lay-flat view of a first panel of a rear portion for a headgear.

[0098] Figure 15 is a lay-flat view of a rear portion for a headgear, showing an inside of the rear portion which is for facing a patient's head in use, and which includes the first panel of Figure 14.

[0099] Figure 16 is a view of a headgear connector attached to headgear straps.

[0100] Figure 17 is a view of a headgear connector attached to headgear straps.

[0101] Figure 18 is a view of a headgear connector attached to headgear straps.

[0102] Figure 19 is a view of a headgear connector attached to headgear straps.

[0103] Figure 20 is a view of a headgear connector, showing an inside of the headgear connector for facing a patient's head in use.

[0104] Figure 21 is a view of a headgear connector, showing an outside of the headgear connector for facing away from a patient's head in use.

[0105] Figure 22 is a view of a headgear connector, showing an outside of the headgear connector for facing away from a patient's head in use.

[0106] Figure 23 is a cross-sectional view of a headgear connector attached to a headgear strap.

[0107] Figure 24 is a view of a headgear connector, showing an outside of the headgear connector for facing away from a patient's head in use.

[0108] Figure 25 is a view showing two headgear connectors, each attached to headgear straps.

[0109] Figure 26 is a view of a headgear connector, showing an inside of the headgear connector for facing a patient's head in use.

[0110] Figure 27 is a side view of a headgear connector.

[0111] Figure 28 is a view of the headgear connector of Figure 27, showing an inside of the headgear connector for facing a patient's head in use.

[0112] Figure 29 is a view of a portion of a mask component.

[0113] Figure 30 is a view of a portion of a headgear connector.

[0114] Figure 31 is a view of a headgear connector, showing an inside of the headgear connector for facing a patient's head in use.

[0115] Figure 32 is a view of a portion of a headgear connector connected to a portion of a mask.

[0116] Figure 33 is a view of the headgear connector of Figure 32, showing an inside of the headgear connector for facing a patient's head in use.

[0117] Figure 34 is a view of the headgear connector of Figures 32 and 33 connected to a portion of a mask; the headgear connector shows an outside of the headgear connector for facing away from a patient's head in use.

[0118] Figure 35 is a view of a headgear connector connected to a portion of a mask; the headgear connector shows an inside of the headgear connector and mask for facing a patient's head in use.

[0119] Figure 36 is a view of a headgear connector connected to portion of a frame of a mask; the headgear connector shows an inside of the headgear connector and mask for facing a patient's head in use.

[0120] Figure 37 is a view of a portion of a frame for a mask, showing an inside of the frame for facing a patient's head in use.

[0121] Figure 38 is a view of a portion of a frame for a mask, showing an outside of the frame for facing a patient's head in use.

[0122] Figure 39 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a headgear connector connected to a portion of a frame for a mask.

[0123] Figure 40 is a front view of two headgear connectors connected to a frame for a mask.

[0124] Figure 41 is a view of a headgear connector connected to a portion of a mask; the headgear connector shows an outside of the headgear connector for facing away from a patient's head in use.

[0125] Figure 42 is a view of a headgear connector, showing an outside of the headgear connector for facing away from a patient's head in use.

[0126] Figure 43 is a view of a headgear connector connected to a portion of a frame for a mask; the headgear connector shows an outside of the headgear connector for facing away from a patient's head in use.

[0127] Figure 44 shows a portion of a frame for a mask.

[0128] Figure 45 is a front view of two headgear connectors connected to a mask.

[0129] Figure 46 is a front view of two headgear connectors connected to a mask.

[0130] Figure 47 is a cross-sectional view of a headgear connector connected to a mask.

[0131] Figure 48 is a view of a headgear connector connected to a portion of a frame fora mask; the headgear connector shows an inside of the headgear connector and mask for facing a patient's head in use.

[0132] Figure 49 is a view of a headgear connector, showing an inside of the headgear connector for facing a patient's head in use.

[0133] Figure 50 is a view of a portion of a frame for a mask.

[0134] Figure 51 is a lay-flat view of a configuration of a headgear, showing an outside of the headgear for facing away from a patient's head in use.

[0135] Figure 52 is a lay-flat view of a configuration of a headgear, showing an outside of the headgear for facing away from a patient's head in use.

[0136] Figure 53 is a lay-flat view of a configuration of a headgear, showing an outside of the headgear for facing away from a patient's head in use.

[0137] Figure 54 is a lay-flat view of part of a headgear, showing an outside of the headgear for facing away from a patient's head in use.

[0138] Figure 55 is a lay-flat view of part of a headgear, showing an outside of the headgear for facing away from a patient's head in use.

[0139] Figure 56 is a lay-flat view of part of a headgear, showing an inside of the headgear for facing a patient's head in use.

[0140] Figure 57 is a lay-flat view of part of a headgear, showing an outside of the headgear for facing away from a patient's head in use.

[0141] Figure 58 is a lay-flat view of another configuration of a headgear, showing an outside of the headgear for facing away from a patient's head in use.

[0142] Figure 59 is a side view of a headgear and frame in use.

[0143] Figure 60 is a front view of a frame fora mask, two headgear connectors, and two rigid arms.

[0144] Figure 61 is a view of a headgear connector and a rigid arm.

[0145] Figure 62 is another view of the headgear connector and rigid arm of Figure 61.

[0146] Figure 63 is a side view of a headgear, including a rigid arm.

[0147] Figure 64 is a view of two rigid arms connected to two headgear connectors.

[0148] Figure 65 is a side view of a respiratory interface including a headgear and a rigid arm.

[0149] Figure 66 is a side view of a rigid arm connected to a headgear connector.

[0150] Figure 67 is a side view of a respiratory interface including headgear and a rigid arm.

[0151] Figure 68 is a side view of headgear in use.

[0152] Figure 69 is a lay-flat view of a headgear, showing an outside of the headgear for facing away from a patient's head in use.

[0153] Figure 70 is a lay-flat view of another configuration of a headgear, showing an outside of the headgear for facing away from a patient's head in use.

[0154] Figure 71 is a lay-flat view of another configuration of a headgear, showing an outside of the headgear for facing away from a patient's head in use.

[0155] Figure 72 is a lay-flat view of another configuration of a headgear, showing an outside of the headgear for facing away from a patient's head in use.

[0156] Figure 73 is a lay-flat view of another configuration of a headgear, showing an outside of the headgear for facing away from a patient's head in use.

[0157] Figure 74 is a perspective view of a respiratory interface including a headgear.

[0158] Figure 75 is a lay-flat view of a headgear, showing an outside of the headgear for facing away from a patient's head in use.

[0159] Figure 76 is a view of a headgear, showing an outside of the headgear for facing away from a patient's head in use, with the lower side straps folded back onto themselves.

[0160] Figure 77 is a perspective view of a respiratory interface including a headgear.

[0161] Figure 78 is a lay-flat view of a configuration of a headgear, showing an outside of the headgear for facing away from a patient's head in use.

[0162] Figure 79 is a lay-flat view of a configuration of a headgear, showing an outside of the headgear for facing away from a patient's head in use.

[0163] Figure 80 is a partial lay-flat view of a configuration of a headgear, showing an outside of the headgear for facing away form a patient's head in use.

[0164] Figure 81 is a view of a first panel of a rear portion of the headgear of Figure 80.

[0165] Figure 82 is a view of a rear portion of the headgear of Figure 80.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0166] Described herein are various configurations of a rear portion for a headgear, and a headgear including the same. Also described herein are various clipping mechanisms for attaching a headgear, such a headgear including the rear portion configurations described herein, to a frame of a mask of a respiratory interface.

[0167] A headgear 100 is shown in Figure 1 in a lay-flat configuration. The headgear 100 includes a rear portion 200. The rear portion may be for location at a back of the patient's head in use of the headgear 100.

[0168] The headgear 100 has an inside 102 which is for facing a patient's head when the headgear is worn, and an outside 101 which is for facing away from the patient's head when the headgear is worn. Figure 1 shows the outside 101 of the headgear 100. Figure 2 shows the inside 102 of the headgear 100 of Figure 1 .

[0169] The headgear 100 includes a plurality of straps 300. At least some of the straps 300 may be for connection to a patient interface, to retain it to the patient's face in use.

[0170] As shown in Figure 1 , the headgear has a first upper side strap 301 and first lower side strap 303 that extend at one lateral side of the headgear, and a second upper side strap 302 and second lower side strap 304 that extend at the opposed other lateral side of the headgear. The first upper side strap 301 and second upper side strap 302 may each be configured to extend, when the headgear is worn, towards the patient's face and be positioned above the patient's ears. The first lower side strap 303 and second lower side strap 304 may each be configured to extend, when the headgear is worn, towards the patient's face and be positioned below the patient's ears.

[0171] As shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2, the headgear 100 also includes a first top strap 305 and a second top strap 306. The first top strap 305 and second top strap, in combination with the rear portion 200, are for forming a loop in use about an upper and rearward region of the patient's head.

[0172] The first upper side strap 301 , second upper side strap 302, first lower side strap 303, second lower side strap 304, first top strap 305, and second top strap 306 are described in relation to their relative positions on a patient's head when the patient's head is in a generallyupright orientation. It will be appreciated that the headgear with the same configuration of straps may be provided and used in different orientations, such as when the patient is lying down.

[0173] While shown in Figure l and Figure 2 as including the straps 301 -306, in other configurations a headgear 100 may include different numbers and configurations of straps. For example, in some configurations a headgear 100 may have only two straps for connection to a patient interface.

[0174] As seen in Figure 1 and Figure 2, the headgear 100 defines a first ear loop 103 and second ear loop 104 within which a patient's ears may be located when the headgear 100 is worn. The first ear loop 103 and second ear loop 104 are defined by respective ones of the upper side straps and lower side straps, and respective sides of the rear portion 200.

[0175] As shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2, the headgear 100 includes a rear portion 200. Further details of configurations of a rear portion 200 for a headgear 100 will now be described.

[0176] A rear portion 200 may include multiple panels. The panels may include a first panel and a second panel.

[0177] Two or more of the multiple panels of a rear portion 200 may be lapped against each other, so that one panel fully or partially overlaps another panel, and another panel fully or partially underlaps the other panel.

[0178] One or more of the panels of the rear portion 200 may be single-ply panels, being formed from single plies of one material or one composite of materials, rather than from joined laminates of multiple layers of different materials.

[0179] In other arrangements, one or more of the panels of the rear portion 200 may be multi-ply panels, being formed of multiple plies of one or more material or composite of materials. Multi-ply panels may include laminate materials, such as for example a fabric-foam laminate. For example, a multi-ply panel may be a three-layer laminate of a foam layer sandwiched between outer fabric layers. A multi-ply panel may also include multiple layers of foam, fabric, and rigid components. For example, a multi-ply panel may include a rigid sheet provided between layers of fabric and foam.

[0180] Figure 3 shows a first panel 210 for a rear portion 200.

[0181] Figure 4 shows a second panel 220 for a rear portion 200.

[0182] As seen in Figure 3, the first panel 210 has a body 211 . A first upper arm 212 and a second upper arm 213 each extend from respective upper laterally opposed parts of the body 211. A first lower arm 214 and a second lower arm 215 each extend from respective lower laterally opposed parts of the body 211.

[0183] Each of the arms 212-215 extend away from the body 211 of the first panel 210. A length of each of the arms 212-215 is taken along the path along which they extend away from the body 211 of the first panel 210.

[0184] The first upper arm 212 and the second upper arm 213 may be each longer than the first lower arm 214 and the second lower arm 215.

[0185] For example, the first upper arm 212 and the second upper arm 213 may each be about 4 to about 8 times longer than either of the first lower arm 214 or second lower arm 215.

[0186] As shown in Figure 3, the first upper arm 212 and the second upper arm 213 may each extend laterally further from the body 211 of the first panel 210 than do, respectively, either the first lower arm 214 or second lower arm 215.

[0187] One or more of the arms 212-215 may extend from the body 211 of the first panel along a straight path.

[0188] When the first panel 210 is laid flat, one or more of the arms 212-215 may extend from the body 211 of the first panel 210 along a non-straight path. For example, the path may be or include one or more curves.

[0189] The first upper arm 212 and the second upper arm 213 each have respective proximal portions 212a and 213a, and respective distal portions 212b and 213b, relative to the body 211 of the first panel 210. An orientation of the direction of extension of the first upper arm212 and the second upper arm 213 may change between the proximal portions 212a and 213a, and the distal portions 212b and 213b. For example, as shown in Figure 3, the distal portions 212b and 213b of the first upper arm 212 and the second upper arm 213 each extend in relatively more lateral directions than do the respective proximal portions 212a and 213a.

[0190] Each of the arms 212-215 has a width, taken transversely to the local direction of extension of the arm.

[0191] The width of one or more of the arms 212-215 may be substantially constant along the length of the arm.

[0192] The width of one or more of the arms 212-215 may vary along the length of the arm.

[0193] As shown in Figure 3, a width of the first upper arm 212 and the second upper arm213 may be less than a corresponding width of each of the first lower arm 214 and the second lower arm 215.

[0194] For example, as shown in Figure 3, the width of the distal portions 212b and 213b of the first upper arm 212 and second upper arm 213 are approximately two thirds of the width of the first lower arm 214 and second lower arm 215.

[0195] In other configurations, a width of the first upper arm 212 and the second upper arm 213 may be greater than a corresponding width of each of the first lower arm 214 and second lower arm 215.

[0196] The width of one or more of the arms 212-215 may taper towards an end of the arm. For example, as shown in Figure 3, the first upper arm 212 and the second upper arm 213 each have angled outer portions, such that the width of the arms 212 and 213 tapers towards their ends.

[0197] A lower extent of the body 211 of the first panel 210 is concavely curved.

[0198] As shown in Figure 4, the second panel 220 has a body 221 and a first upper arm 222, a second upper arm 223, a first lower arm 224, and a second lower arm 225.

[0199] Each of the arms 222-225 extend away from the body 221 of the second panel 220. A length of each of the arms 222-225 is taken along the path along which they extend away from the body 221 of the second panel 220. Each of the arms 222-225 has a width, taken transversely to the local direction of extension of the arm.

[0200] As seen in Figure 4, the first upper arm 222 and the second upper arm 223 each respectively extend laterally further of the body 221 than do either the first lower arm 224 or second lower arm 225.

[0201] The first upper arm 222 and the second upper arm 223 each have respective proximal portions 222a and 223a, and distal portions 222b and 223b. The widths of the first upper arm 222 and the second upper arm 223 are each greater at the respective distal portions 222b and 223b than at the respective proximal portions 222a and 223a.

[0202] The first lower arm 224 and the second lower arm 225 each have respective proximal portions 224a and 225a, and distal portions 224b and 225b. The distal portions 224b and 225b are each oriented so they extend more laterally than their respective adjacent proximal portions 224a and 225a.

[0203] The widths of the first lower arm 224 and the second lower arm 225 are each reduced towards respective ends of the arms.

[0204] The panels of the rear portion and particularly the first panel 210 and the second panel 220 may be selected from any suitable panel-like material. This may include textiles being networks of natural and / or artificial fibres, and more particularly fabrics as may be made by weaving, knitting, braiding, spreading, crocheting, bonding, or other available methods.

[0205] The panels may also include any other non-conventionally textile materials which may be provided in a panel-like form, such as a plastic or composites.

[0206] The panels may be of a sheet-like form or may comprise tubular panels.

[0207] The panels may have a 2D shape. Alternatively, one or more of the panels which form the rear portion 200 may have a 3D shape. More specifically, one or more of the panels which form the rear portion 200 may have either a flat shape or a non-flat shape.

[0208] In at least some embodiments, some or all of the plurality of panels may be of flexible materials, and particularly materials which may drape under their own weight. Such materials may be particularly suited to forming parts of a headgear which is to conform to the shape of a patient's head.

[0209] The first panel 210 and the second panel 220 may be of the same material. The first panel 210 and the second panel 220 may have the same properties, such as stretch properties.

[0210] The first panel 210 and the second panel 220 may be of different properties. The first panel 210 and the second panel 220 may have different properties, such as different stretch properties.

[0211] The first panel 210 and the second panel 220 may each be stretchable.

[0212] In some configurations, the first panel 210 may be more stretchable than the second panel 220.

[0213] The first panel 210 may be formed of a single ply of a stretchable material.

[0214] The first panel 210 may be, or include, a free-cut material, being a material which is not able to be unravelled or may at least be resistant to unravelling of the constituent fibres along a cut edge.

[0215] The first panel 210 may alternatively be formed of a foam laminate. The foam laminate may preferably be a thin foam laminate, for example having a thickness of about 1 .5 mm to about 3 mm.

[0216] In some configurations, the second panel 220 may be or include a non-stretch material.

[0217] The second panel may be formed of one or a plurality of plies of a textile material.

[0218] In other configurations, the second panel may be a foam laminate. The foam laminate of the second panel may have a thickness of about 1 .5 mm to about 3 mm, or about 2 mm to about 2.5 mm.

[0219] The straps of the headgear may have the same thickness as the second panel. In other arrangements, the straps of the headgear may have a thickness that is greater than the thickness of the second panel.

[0220] The first panel 210 may have a lesser thickness than the second panel 220.

[0221] The first panel 210 and the second panel may be respectively overlapped and underlapped against each other to define the rear portion 200.

[0222] Figure 5 shows a lay-flat view of a rear portion 200 including a first panel 210 overlapped by a second panel 220. Figure 5 shows a view of the outside 101 of the rear portion, which is for facing away from the head of the patient.

[0223] Figure 6 shows the view of Figure 5, but with the extents of the overlapped first panel 210 shown in broken lines.

[0224] Figure 7 shows another lay-flat view of the rear portion 200 of Figures 5 and 6, showing the inside 102 of the rear portion, which is for facing the head of the patient in use. As shown in Figure 7, showing the inside 102 of the rear portion, the second panel 220 is overlapped by the first panel 210.

[0225] Figure 8 shows the view of Figure 7, but with the extents of the overlapped second panel 220 shown in broken lines.

[0226] As particularly illustrated in Figures 6 and 8, the rear portion 200 includes a nonlapped region 231 of the first panel 210. The rear portion includes a non-lapped region 241 of the second panel 220. And the rear portion 200 includes at least one lapped region 251 , at which the first panel 210 and the second panel 220 are lapped against each other.

[0227] Where the first panel 210 and the second panel 220 are lapped against each other they may be joined together. The joining may be by one or more of stitching, adhesive, or fusing.

[0228] Fusing may involve one or both of the application of heat and pressure to the panel or panels.

[0229] Fusing may generally be by a welding.

[0230] Fusing may alternatively or in addition be by thermoforming, using the application of heat and pressure to fuse two or more panels together.

[0231] In addition or alternatively, thermoforming may be utilised on a single panel or multiple panels to change their thickness. For example, a fabric and foam laminate panel or panels may be thermoformed to locally or globally reduce their thickness.

[0232] Where first panel 210 and the second panel 220 are fused together by welding, one or both of the first panel 210 and the second panel 220 are of a weldable material.

[0233] Welding may include forms of plastic welding.

[0234] For example, fusing may be provided by radio frequency (RF) or high frequency (HF) welding, where the material to be fused comprises a dipolar material which is heated and melted by electromagnetic excitation. Examples of materials which may be fused by radio frequency or high frequency welding include PVC, CPVC, Polyurethane, EVA, PVDC, PET, and nylons. Fusing by radio frequency or high frequency welding may be provided to materials which at least partially include a dipolar material.

[0235] Further examples of materials which may be fused by radio frequency or high frequency welding include PETG, TPU, and LDPE.

[0236] One or more panels which are to be fused by welding, including by radio frequency or high frequency welding, may thus comprise or consist of a dipolar material, which are weldable by these processes. When the fusing process, such as welding by a radio frequency or high frequency welding, is applied to the panel or panels the panel or panels respectively may generally be caused to consolidate or solidify.

[0237] A panel or panels may be fused to varying degrees. For example, in the case of radio frequency or high frequency welding, one or more of the welding platen separation, weld energy, and welding time may be varied to increase or decrease the degree of the fusing.

[0238] Relatively lower degrees of fusing may cause partial or localised consolidation of the fused material. Relatively greater degrees of fusing may cause more complete or generalisedconsolidation of the fused material. A material which is exposed to a sufficient degree of fusing may cause the original material, for example a dipolar fabric, to form a solid plastic where it is fused.

[0239] The non-lapped regions of the first panel and the second panel (being the nonlapped region 231 and the non-lapped region 241 ), and the lapped region 251 may be located at or towards a central region of the rear portion 200.

[0240] As seen particularly in Figure 6 and Figure 8, the non-lapped region 231 of the first panel 210, the non-lapped region 241 of the second panel, and the lapped region 251 of the first panel 210 and the second panel 220 are located between an upper extent 105 and a lower extent 106 of the rear portion 200.

[0241] Between the upper extent 105 and lower extent 106 of the rear portion 200, the lapped region 251 may be located between the non-lapped region 231 and the non-lapped region 241.

[0242] For example, as shown in Figure 6 and Figure 8, the non-lapped region 231 of the first panel 210 defines a lower extent 106 of the rear portion 200, while the non-lapped region 241 of the second panel 220 defines a corresponding upper extent 105 of the rear portion 200, at least at a central part thereof.

[0243] The lapped region 251 may be located away from either or both of an upper extent 105 and a lower extent 106 of the rear portion 200.

[0244] The lapped region 251 is located between the non-lapped region 231 and the nonlapped region 241.

[0245] The non-lapped region 231 of the first panel 210 may be located to be adjacent to the lapped region 251 of the first panel 210 and the second panel 220.

[0246] The non-lapped region 241 of the second panel 220 may be located to be adjacent to the lapped region 251 of the first panel 210 and the second panel 220.

[0247] More particularly, as illustrated in Figure 6 and Figure 8, each of the non-lapped region 231 and non-lapped region 241 are provided to be adjacent to the lapped region 251.

[0248] When worn, an upper part of the first panel 210 may be lapped by a portion of the second panel 220 to define the lapped region 251.

[0249] Figure 9 illustrates a rear portion 200 of a headgear. Figure 10 shows a partial section view through the rear portion 200 of Figure 9, taken through the line A-A. The line A-A is taken through the central region 201 of the rear portion 200.

[0250] Shown in Figure 10 are the non-lapped region 231 of the first panel 210, the lapped region 251 , and the non-lapped region 241 of the second panel 220. The non-lapped region 241 is located at an upper extent 105 of the rear portion 200 at the cross-section. The non-lapped region 231 is located at a lower extent 106 of the rear portion 200 at the cross-section. As shown in Figure10, the first panel 210 is located towards the inside 102 of the rear portion and the second panel 220 is located towards the outside 101 of the rear portion.

[0251] As shown in Figure 6 and Figure 8, the non-lapped region 241 of the second panel 220 extends between respective lateral extents of the rear portion 200. The non-lapped region 241 has a length along the direction of extension between the lateral extents of the rear portion 200, and a corresponding width taken transversely to the local direction of extension.

[0252] The width of the non-lapped region 241 may vary between the lateral extents of the rear portion 200.

[0253] The width of the non-lapped region 241 may reduce from the central region 201 of the rear portion 200 to respective first lateral regions 202 and 203. As illustrated in Figure 6 and Figure 8, the first lateral regions 202 and 203 may be located adjacent to the central region 201 .

[0254] The width of the non-lapped region 241 may increase between the first lateral regions 202 and 203 and respective peripherally located second lateral regions 204 and 205. As illustrated in Figure 6 and Figure 8, the second lateral regions 204 and 205 are adjacent to the first lateral regions 203 and 204.

[0255] There may be more than one non-lapped region of the first panel 210 and more than one non-lapped region of the second panel 220 in a rear portion 200. Similarly, there may be more than one lapped region of a rear portion.

[0256] For example, with reference to Figure 6 and Figure 8, the rear portion 200 includes the non-lapped region 241 of the second panel 220, and also non-lapped regions 242 and 243 of the second panel. The rear portion 200 includes the non-lapped region 231 of the first panel 210, and also the non-lapped regions 232 and 233 of the first panel 210.

[0257] As previously described, a headgear 100 may include two or more straps. The straps may be attached to the rear portion 200 to constitute the headgear 100. The headgear 100 may include other components, such as frame connectors as described herein. The rear portion 200 may include a plurality of strap connection portions at which the straps are to be connected.

[0258] As seen in Figures 5-8 the rear portion 200 has upper strap connection portions 261 and 262, and lower strap connection portions 263 and 264.

[0259] As illustrated in Figure 6 and Figure 8, the non-lapped region 231 , the non-lapped region 241 , and the lapped region 251 of the rear portion 200 are all located, in a lateral direction, between the upper strap connection portions 261 and 262.

[0260] As illustrated in Figure 6 and Figure 8, the non-lapped region 231, the non-lapped region 241 , and the lapped region 251 of the rear portion 200 are all located, in the lateral direction, between the lower strap connection portions 263 and 264.

[0261] As illustrated in Figure 6 and Figure 8, the non-lapped region 231, the non-lapped region 241 , and the lapped region 251 of the rear portion 200 are all located, in a height directiontransverse to the lateral direction, between the upper strap connection portions 261 and 262 and the lower strap connection portions 263 and 264.

[0262] The non-lapped region 231 , the non-lapped region 241 , and the lapped region 251 of the rear portion 200 may all be located between, in both lateral and height directions, the upper strap connection portions 261 and 262 and the lower strap connection portions 263 and 264.

[0263] One or more of the strap connection portions 261 -264 may be provided at a nonlapped region of the rear portion. For example, as illustrated in Figure 6 and Figure 8, the upper strap connection portions 261 and 262 are provided at the non-lapped region 241 of the second panel 220. The lower strap connection portions 263 and 264 are respectively provided at the nonlapped regions 242 and 243 of the second panel 220.

[0264] Providing the strap connection portions at a non-lapped region of the rear portion may allow the resulting thickness of the headgear at the strap connection portions to be reduced compared to if the strap connection portions were located at a lapped region of the rear portion. As the second panel 220 may be less stretchable than the first panel, providing the strap connection portions at the second panel 220 may allow for a relatively greater degree of load transfer through the straps and into the lapped region of the rear portion at a relatively lesser degree of deformation of the rear portion.

[0265] The upper strap connection portions 261 and 262 are located at the first upper arm 222 and the second upper arm 223 of the second panel 220. The lower strap connection portions 263 and 264 are located at the first lower arm 224 and the second lower arm 225 of the second panel 220.

[0266] The first upper arm 222 and the second upper arm 223 at the upper strap connection portions 261 and 262 have a greater width than the first lower arm 224 and the second lower arm 225 at the lower strap connection portions 263 and 264.

[0267] Figure 11 illustrates a lay-flat configuration of a headgear 100 that includes a rear portion 200. The headgear 100 has a first upper side strap 301 and second upper side strap 302 which when worn are configured to each pass above a respective ear of the patient. The headgear 100 has first lower side strap 303 and second lower side strap 304 which when worn are configured to each pass below a respective ear of the patient. The headgear further has a first top strap 305 and second top strap 306 for, when worn, forming in combination with the rear portion 200 a loop in use about an upper and rearward region the patient's head.

[0268] The first upper side strap 301 and first top strap 305 both extend from the rear portion 200 at the upper strap connection portion 261. The second upper side strap 302 and second top strap 306 both extend from the rear portion 200 at the upper strap connection portion 262.

[0269] The first lower side strap 303 extends from the lower strap connection portion 263. The second lower side strap 304 extends from the lower strap connection portion 264.

[0270] The first upper side strap 301 and first lower side strap 303 are configured such that they distally converge towards each other. As illustrated in Figure 11 , the first upper side strap 301 and first lower side strap 303 may converge with each other at or towards a distal extent of the straps.

[0271] The second upper side strap 302 and second lower side strap 304 are configured such that they distally converge towards each other. As illustrated in Figure 11 , the second upper side strap 302 and second lower side strap 304 may converge with each other at or towards a distal extent of the straps.

[0272] The configuration of the straps 301 -304 may be such that when the headgear 100 is laid flat, distal portions of the first upper side strap 301 and first lower side strap 303 overlap with each other, and distal portions of the second upper side strap 302 and second lower side strap 304 overlap with each other.

[0273] The distal portions of a first upper side strap 301 and a first lower side strap 303 are shown in Figure 12. In use the ends of the straps of the headgear 100 may be secured around fixtures of the patient interface and folded back onto themselves. To this end the straps may include a first half of a hook and loop fastener at a relatively more distal part of the strap which is folded back in use, and the second half of the hook and loop fastener at a relatively less distal part of the strap onto which the part of the strap having the first half of the hook and loop fastener is folded onto.

[0274] Figure 12 illustrates in further detail how the ends of the straps may be angled, so that the width of the straps taper towards their ends.

[0275] A second top strap 306 is partially shown in Figure 13. As described in relation to Figure 12, the end of the second top strap 306 is also angled, such that the width of the second top strap tapers towards its end.

[0276] A tapered end may be provided to one or more of the straps of the headgear 100 to improve the ease with which it may be fed through an associated fixture of the patient interface.

[0277] When worn, the inside 102 of the headgear is the head-contacting side of the headgear, and the outside 101 of the headgear is the non-head-contacting side of the headgear.

[0278] Another configuration of a first panel 210 for a rear portion 200 of a headgear 100 is shown in Figure 14. The first panel 210 has a body 211 , a first upper arm 212, a second upper arm 213, a first lower arm 214, and a second lower arm 215.

[0279] The first upper arm 212 and second upper arm 213 each have respective proximal portions 212d and 213d, medial portions 212e and 213e, and end portions 212f and 213f. Between the proximal portions 212d and 213d and the respective medial portions 212e and 213e anorientation of the first upper arm 212 and the second upper arm 213 each changes, so that the direction of extension of the arms is more towards the lateral directions.

[0280] While illustrated in Figure 3 as having end portions that reduce in width, the end portions 212f and 213f of the first panel 210 of Figure 14 increases in width relative to the adjacent medial portions 212e and 213e of the first upper arm 212 and the second upper arm 213.

[0281] When lapped with a second panel 220, the widened end portions 212f and 213f of the first panel 210 of Figure 14 may cause a narrowing of the of the non-lapped region 241 towards the ends of the first upper arm 212 and the second upper arm 213.

[0282] For example, Figure 15 shows the first panel 210 of Figure 14 overlapped on a second panel 220 to define a rear portion 200. Figure 15 shows the inside 102 of the rear portion 200, which is for location against the patient's head in use.

[0283] As seen in Figure 15, the non-lapped region 241 of the second panel 220 narrows laterally towards each of the first upper side strap connection portion 261 and second upper strap connection portion 262. More particularly, the size and configuration of the first panel 210 when lapped to the second panel 220 is such that the non-lapped region 241 does not extend to the first upper side strap connection portion 261 and second upper strap connection portion 262. Instead, the rear portion 200 defines two separate non-lapped regions 244 and 245 at the strap connection portions 261 and 261. The lapped region 231 is located between the non-lapped region 241 and each of the respective lateral non-lapped regions 244 and 245.

[0284] In the configuration of Figure 7, the non-lapped regions of the second panel 220 at the strap connection portions 261 and 262 are contiguous with the non-lapped region 241.

[0285] In the configuration of Figure 15, the non-lapped regions 244 and 245 of the second panel 220 at the strap connection portions 261 and 262 are non-contiguous with the nonlapped region 241 , being separated by the lapped region 231.

[0286] As shown in Figure 15 the lateral extents of the lapped region 231 at the first and the second upper arms of the rear portion 200 are wider than the lateral extents of the lapped region 231 at the first and the second upper arms of the rear portion 200 of Figure 7. Such a configuration may provide for increased area for joining of the first panel 210 and the second panel 220 together at the lateralmost extents of their overlaps. This may allow for increased strength of the joining of the panels to each other at their lateral most extents. Where the panels are fused together, such as by welding, this configuration may improve a resistance of the lateralmost extents of the panels to peeling apart from each other in use.

[0287] The movements and manipulations required to don and doff a headgear for a mask500 may present barriers to use and / or may complicate a patient's experience. For example, donning or doffing may require a patient 600 to attach, adjust and / or detach multiple points of connection between the headgear 100 and the mask 500. The operations required to make theseattachments, adjustments and / or detachments may require the patient 600 to perform multiple movements. These actions may be particularly difficult for patients 600 with impaired dexterity.

[0288] The headgear 100 may be configured to enable the patient 600 to don or doff the headgear 100 by attaching or removing a single point of connection between the headgear 100 and the mask 500. In some configurations, the single point of connection may enable the patient 600 to connect or disconnect the headgear 100 and the mask 500 with a single hand. This may enable the patient 600 to attach or remove the headgear 100 from their head with one hand, whilst using their other hand to support the mask 500 on or near their face. For example, the patient 600 may don the headgear 100 by attaching the mask 500 to their face with their first hand. Simultaneously, the patient 600 may use their second hand to wrap the headgear 100 around their head, and then to connect the headgear 100 to the mask 500. Likewise, the patient 600 may doff the headgear 100 by using their first hand to support the mask 500 on their face. Simultaneously, the patient 600 may use their second hand to disconnect the headgear 100 from the mask, and remove the headgear 100 from their head, allowing the mask 500 to be removed from their face.

[0289] The headgear 100 may be configured to enable the patient 600 to don or doff the headgear 100 in a single movement (for instance, the patient 600 may be enabled to swing or wrap the headgear around their head). To improve the effectiveness of single movement donning and doffing, the headgear 100 may be configured to have improved structural support. Structural support may enable the headgear 100 to substantially retain its shape during single motion donning and doffing. It should be appreciated that shape retainment may make the single motion donning and doffing process easier for the patient 600 to perform.

[0290] Various configurations of a headgear clip 400 are shown in Figures 16 to 28, 30 to 36, 39 to 43, and 45 to 49. The headgear clip 400 may be configured to provide a point of connection between the headgear 100 and the mask 500. The headgear clip 400 may additionally provide structural support to the headgear 100.

[0291] The headgear clip 400 may connect to two straps of the headgear 100. For instance, as shown in Figures 16 to 19, the headgear clip 400 may connect to the first upper side strap 301 or second upper side strap 302 of the headgear 100 and a first lower side strap 303 or second lower side strap 304. The connection between each headgear strap 301 -304 and the headgear clip 400 may be reversible. For instance, a patient 600 may be able to connect and disconnect each headgear strap 301 -304 to and from the headgear clip 400. The connection may be adjustable, such that the patient can change the usable length of the strap by adjustment of the strap at the headgear clip 400.

[0292] The headgear clip 400 may connect to the mask 500. The connection between the headgear clip 400 and the mask 500 may be reversible. For instance, a patient 600 may be able to connect and disconnect the headgear clip 400 from the mask 500.

[0293] It should be appreciated that when, in use, two headgear straps are connected to the headgear clip 400, the patient 600 may be able to connect and disconnect the two straps to the mask 500, by connecting and disconnecting the headgear clip 400. The headgear clip 400 may therefore provide a single point of connection between two headgear straps and the mask 500. Accordingly, the patient 600 may connect and disconnect the two headgear straps, to and from the mask 500, in a single movement, by connecting and disconnecting the headgear clip 400.

[0294] In some configurations, straps of the headgear 100 may be connected to multiple headgear clips 400. For instance, as shown in Figure 25, a first headgear clip 400 may be connected to a first upper side strap 301 and a first lower side strap 303, and a second headgear clip 403 may be connected to a second upper side strap 302 and a second lower side strap 304. The first headgear clip 400 may be connected to a right-hand side of the mask 500, as shown in Figure 19. The second headgear clip 403 may be connected to an opposite second side of the mask 500.

[0295] In configurations where the upper side strap and lower side strap connections at a given side of the headgear are not identical, a second headgear clip 403 may be a mirror of the first headgear clip 400.

[0296] With reference to Figures 16 to 22, 24 to 28, 31 , 35 to 36, 40 to 43, 45 to 46, and 48 to 49, the headgear clip 400 may comprise an upper strap connection 401 configured to connect to the first or second upper side strap 301 , 302. The headgear clip may comprise a lower strap connection 411 , configured to connect to the first or the second lower side straps 303, 304. The headgear clip may comprise a frame connector 421 , configured to connect to the mask 500.

[0297] With reference to Figures 16 to 28, the upper strap connection 401 and the lower strap connection 411 may each define at least one slot 402, 412. The at least one slot 402, 412 may be configured to receive at least one headgear strap 301 -304.

[0298] As shown, for example, in Figures 16 to 24, the upper strap connection 401 may define at least one upper slot 402, configured to receive the first upper side strap 301 or second upper side strap 302. The lower strap connection 411 may define at least one lower slot 412, configured to receive the first or second lower side strap 303, 304.

[0299] The at least one upper slot 402 and the at least one lower slot 412 may be located so that the upper strap 301 302 and the lower strap 303304 are substantially close together at the point of attachment. For instance, as shown in Figures 16-19, the at least one upper slot 402 and the at least one lower slot 412 may each be located proximal to the other so that the upper strap 301 302 and the lower strap 303304 are oriented substantially close together. It should be appreciated that orienting the straps 301 -304 substantially close together may help keep the headgear clip 400 upright during donning and doffing.

[0300] The number of slots 402, 412 at the lower and upper strap connections 401 , 411 may vary. For instance, as shown in Figures 16 to 21 , the upper strap connection 401 may define a single upper slot 402, and the lower strap connection 411 may define a single lower slot 412. By way of further example, the upper and / or lower strap connections 401 , 411 may define two slots 402, 412. For instance, as shown in Figure 22, the upper strap connection 401 may define two upper slots 402a, 402b. By way of further example, as shown in Figure 24, the upper strap connection 401 and the lower strap connection 411 may both define two slots 402, 412.

[0301] In single-slot configurations, the respective strap 301 -304 may connect to the headgear clip 400 by looping through the slot 402, 412. For instance, as shown in Figures 16 to 18, the first upper side strap 301 connects to the headgear clip 400 by looping through the upper slot 402. The first lower side strap 303 connects to the headgear clip 400 by looping through the lower slot 412.

[0302] In two-slot configurations, the two slots 402 and 412 may be comprised of a first slot 402a, 412a and a second slot 402b, 412b. The respective headgear strap 301 -304 may be configured to loop through both the first slot 402a, 412a and the second slot 402b, 412b, in order to minimise contact between the respective strap 301 -304 and the patient's 600 face. This is shown for instance in Figure 23. The headgear clip 400 may define an outside 431 that faces away from a patient's 600 face, and an inside 432 that faces towards (and may contact) a patient's 600 face. The first upper side strap 301 loops from the outside 431 of the headgear clip 400, to the inside 432 of the headgear clip 400, through the first slot 402a. The first upper side strap 301 loops back from the inside 432 of the headgear clip 400, to the outside 431 of the headgear clip 400, through the second slot 402b. As shown in Figure 23, this configuration may reduce the amount of the first upper side strap 301 that is on the inside 432 of the headgear clip 400, and minimise any free ends which may be exposed to the patient's face.

[0303] As shown in Figures 16 to 25, the headgear clip 400 may further comprise at least one sleeve 440, configured to receive headgear straps. It should be appreciated that while the sleeves 440 depicted in Figures 16 to 18 are represented as being transparent, the sleeves may alternatively be partially or entirely opaque.

[0304] As shown in Figures 16 to 19, the at least one sleeve 440 may be configured to retain the headgear straps 301 -304. As discussed, in use the headgear straps 301 -304 may connect to the headgear clip 400 by looping through the respective slot 402, 412. As shown, in Figures 16-19, the at least one sleeve 440 may retain the looped headgear strap 301 -304 so that the strap 301 -304 folds back on itself. It should be appreciated that by folding the headgear strap 301 -304 back on itself the rigidity of the headgear strap 301 -304 may be increased and / or each headgear strap 301 -304 may be better able to individually maintain its structure. This may make it easier for a user to don and doff the headgear in a single motion.

[0305] Each sleeve 440 may be provided in proximity to an upper or lower strap connection 401 or 411 . Each sleeve 440 may be configured so that when the respective strap 301 - 304 is received by the sleeve 440, the respective strap 301 or 303 is guided towards the proximal upper or lower strap connection 401 or 411 . For instance, as shown in Figures 19 to 23, the headgear clip 400 may comprise a sleeve 440 in proximity to the upper strap connection 401. As shown in Figure 19 and 23, when the first upper side strap 301 is received by the sleeve 440, the sleeve orients the first upper side strap 301 so that it is guided towards the upper strap connection 401.

[0306] The headgear clip 400 may comprise multiple sleeves 440. For instance, as shown in Figures 16 to 18 and 24, the headgear clip 400 may comprise an upper sleeve 442 and a lower sleeve 443. The upper sleeve 442 may be proximal to the upper strap connection 401. The lower sleeve 443 may be proximal to the lower strap connection 411.

[0307] The headgear clip 400 may comprise sleeves 440 on both the inside 432 and the outside 431 of the headgear clip 400. This may allow the respective strap 301 , 303 to be secured by sleeves 440 on both the outside 431 and inside 432 of the headgear clip 400. For instance, as shown in Figure 20, the headgear clip 400 may comprise an inside-upper sleeve 442a and an outside-upper sleeve 442b: both in proximity to the upper slot 402. This means that, in use, when the first upper side strap 301 is looped through the upper slot 402, the strap 301 may be received and secured on the inside 432 of the headgear clip 400 by the inside-upper sleeve 442a, and on the outside 431 of the headgear clip 400 by the outside-upper sleeve 442b.

[0308] The headgear clip 400 may comprise a single sleeve 440. For instance, as shown in Figure 22, the headgear clip 400 may comprise an upper sleeve 442 on the outside 431 of the headgear clip 400. It should be appreciated that having a single sleeve 440 may reduce the bulk and weight of the headgear clip 400.

[0309] The at least one sleeve 440 may have shapes and dimensions. For instance, the width of the sleeve 440 may vary. It should be appreciated that when a strap is secured by the sleeve 442, 443, as shown in Figures 16 to 18, the width of the sleeve is in a direction across the width of the strap. Figure 16 shows an example of relatively larger-width sleeves 440. Figures 17 and 18 show examples of sleeves 440 with relatively narrower widths. It should be appreciated that sleeves 440 of relatively greater widths may provide more structural support to the straps. This may mean the straps are more strongly oriented by the sleeves 440 in the given direction. It should be appreciated that sleeves 440 of relatively lesser widths may reduce bulk and weight.

[0310] As shown in Figure 17, sleeves 440 may further comprise an extension 441 . The extension 441 may be configured so that, when the sleeve 440 receives a strap 302, 304, the extension 441 extends longitudinally along an edge of the strap, in the illustrated embodiment the extension 441 extends longitudinally along the bottom side of the strap 302, 304, as shown inFigure 17. The extension 441 may be configured to provide further support to the second upper side strap 302 and the second lower side strap 304. This support may provide additional retention of the second upper side strap 302 and the second lower side strap 304 in the desired orientation. A shorter-width sleeve 440, with an extension 441 , as shown in Figure 17, may therefore minimise bulk, whilst providing structural support to the received second upper side strap 302 and the second lower side strap 304.

[0311] The headgear clip 400 may comprise a groove 445 on the inside 432 of the clip 400 facing the patient 600. The groove 445 may be positioned at or proximal to the sleeve 440. For instance, as shown in Figure 20, the groove 445 may be positioned so that the inside-upper sleeve 442a extends over the groove 445. The groove 445 may be configured so that when a strap is connected to the headgear clip 400, and loops across the inside 432 of the clip 400, the strap may be received in the groove 445. This may reduce the contact of the strap with the patient's 600 face.

[0312] Various configurations of the frame connector 421 of the headgear clip 400 will be discussed herein. The frame connector 421 comprises a structure configured to connect to a complimentary structure on a component of the mask 500. It may for example connect to a complimentary structure formed on one or more of the frame, bezel, housing, seal, or other component of the mask. Where reference is made to connection of to a frame of the mask it will be appreciated that it may be to any other commonly utilised component of the mask, such as a bezel, housing, or seal.

[0313] The mask 500 may have a clip connection 510, configured to reversibly connect to the frame connector 421 of the headgear clip 400.

[0314] The frame connector 421 may comprise a hook 450, as shown for example in Figures 16 to 31.

[0315] The clip connection 510 of the mask 500 may be configured to reversibly connect with the hook 450 of the headgear clip 400. For instance, the clip connection 510 may comprise a post 511 , as shown in Figure 29. The post 511 may be configured so that the hook 450 can reversibly clip to the post 511. It should be appreciated that various other clip connections 510 may be suitable for connecting to the hook 450.

[0316] The width of the hook 450 may vary. For instance, the hook 450 may have a first width as shown in Figures 16 to 25. By way of further example, the hook 450 may have a relatively extended width as shown in Figures 26 to 28. The extended width may help prevent the hook 450 from rotating when force is applied through a headgear strap, for instance a first upper side strap 301 or second upper side strap 302. For example, the extended width may increase the hook's 450 resistance to torsion around the axis A-A, as shown in Figure 28.

[0317] The hook 450 may comprise a mask groove 453. The mask groove 453 may be configured to receive the clip connection 510 of the mask 500. For instance, as shown in Figures 26to 28 and 30, the mask groove 453 may define a semi-circular cross-sectional shape, configured to receive a substantially cylindrical post 511 (such as that shown in Figure 29). The mask groove 453 of the hook may increase the secureness of the connection between the hook 450 and the clip connection 510 of the mask 500.

[0318] As shown in Figure 30, the groove 453 may comprise a lower portion 454 and an upper portion 455. In use, the lower portion 454 may be configured to receive a lower portion 513 of the post 511 , and the upper portion 455 may be configured to receive an upper portion 512 of the post 511 . An arc subtended by the groove 453 at the lower portion 454 may be different to an arc subtended by the groove 453 at the upper portion 455. Where the arc subtended by the groove453 is different at the lower portion 454 and the upper portion 455, the subtended arc may vary between the lower portion 454 and the upper portion 455.

[0319] For instance, as shown in Figure 30, an arc subtended by the groove 453 at the lower portion 454 is greater than a corresponding arc subtended by the groove 453 at the upper portion 455. The upper portion 455 has a shoulder 449 that curves in an opposite direction from the semi-circular cross-sectional shape that defines the groove 453. The lower portion 454 has a shoulder 448 that curves in the same direction as the semi-circular cross-sectional shape of the groove 453. This provides the groove 453 with a relatively larger subtended arc at the lower portion454 than at the upper portion 455.

[0320] It should be appreciated that the relatively greater subtended arc of the grove 453 at the lower portion 454 may mean that the lower portion 454 retains the clip connection 510 (for instance the post 511 ) of the mask more tightly than the upper portion 455 of the groove 453. The tighter connection at the lower portion 454 may help prevent accidental disconnection. It should be appreciated that accidental disconnection may be more common at the lower portion 454 of the headgear clip 400, due to, for instance, the lower portion 454 catching on bedding or clothing during use. It should further be appreciated that the upper portion 455 may more commonly be intentionally disconnected by the user. The looser connection at the upper portion 455 of the groove 453 may therefore allow a patient 600 to intentionally disconnect the hook 450 from the mask 500. For instance, a patient 600 may intentionally disconnect the hook 450 from the mask 500 by rotating the hook away from the post 511 in an upward and / or anterior direction. In an alternative configuration, which is not illustrated by the Figures, the diameter of the mask groove 453 may vary along the mask groove 453. For instance, the lower portion 454 of the groove 453 may have a smaller radius than the upper portion 455 of the groove 453. This means the lower portion 454 of the groove 453 may connect more tightly to the clip connection 510 (for instance the post 511 ) of the mask 500.

[0321] In configurations wherein the semi-cylindrical mask groove 453 connects to the post 511 of the mask 500, the post 511 may vary in diameter. For instance, as shown in Figure 29,the upper portion 512 of the post 511 may have a smaller diameter than the lower portion 513 of the post 511. This means the lower portion 513 of the post 511 may connect more tightly to the mask groove 453 of the hook 450. This tighter connection may help prevent accidental disconnection. The upper portion 512 of the post 511 , due to its smaller diameter, may connect to the mask groove 453 of the hook 450 more loosely. This may allow a patient 600 to intentionally disconnect the hook 450 from the post 511 of the mask 500.

[0322] The hook 450 may comprise at least one recess 456 that extends along at least part of the hook 450. For instance, as shown in Figures 26 and 28, the hook 450 may comprise a recess 456 that extends longitudinally along at least part of the hook 450. The at least one recess 456 may aid the hook 450 in flexing over the clip connection 510 of the mask 500. This may make it easier for the patient 600 to intentionally connect and disconnect the hook 450 of the headgear clip 400 from clip connection 510 of the mask 500.

[0323] The hook 450 may comprise a plurality of recesses 456. For instance, as shown in Figure 31 , the hook 450 may comprise two recesses 456 that each extend longitudinally along at least part of the hook 450. The two recesses 456 may define two outer sections 457 and an inner section 458 of the hook 450 between the two recesses 456. The outer sections 457 may be more rigid or thicker than the inner section 458, which may be relatively more flexible. This may allow a patient 600 to connect the hook 450 to the clip connection 510 of the mask 500 by flexing the inner section 458. Once the headgear clip 400 is connected to the mask 500, headgear forces may predominately be transferred through the more rigid outer sections 457.

[0324] The at least one recess 456 may extend to an edge of the hook 450. For instance, as shown in Figure 31 , the two recesses 456 extend to an edge of the hook 450. In some configurations, for instance, as shown in Figure 28, the at least one recess 456 may not extend to the edge of the hook 450 and may have a closed end.

[0325] The frame connector 421 of the headgear clip 400 may comprise a prong 460 or pair of prongs 460, as shown in Figures 32 to 34.

[0326] The clip connection 510 of the mask 500 may be configured to reversibly connect to the prong 460. For example, as shown in Figure 32, the clip connection 510 may define a prong recess 520, configured to receive the prong 460.

[0327] The connection between the prong 460 and the prong recess 520 may be a snap fit connection. As shown in Figure 32, the prong recess 520 may have a mouth 521. The mouth may have a relatively decreased width. The mouth 521 may therefore create a resistance to prong 460 removal. This may reduce the risk of accidental removal of the prong 460 from the prong recess 520 of the mask 500.

[0328] The prong 460 may comprise a head 461 and a shoulder 462. The prong 460 may have a relatively increased width at the shoulder 462, as shown in Figure 32. As shown in Figure 32,once inserted, the shoulder 462 of the prong 460 may abut the mouth 521 of the recess 520 to resist disengagement. It should be appreciated that the shoulder 462 of the prong 460 may decrease the risk of accidental disconnection between the prong 460 and the recess 520.

[0329] The prong 460 may have various other features to enable insertion and removal from the recess 520. For instance, as shown in Figures 32 and 33, the prong 460 may comprise a recess 463. A first portion 465 and a second portion 466 of the prong 460 may be defined either side of the recess 463 as shown in Figure 32. A head end of the recess 463 may be open ended. The recess 463 may enable the first portion 465 and the second portion 466 of the prong 460 to flex inwards when the prong 460 encounters the resistance of the mouth 521 of the recess 520. This may temporarily reduce the width of the shoulder 462 of the prong 460 during insertion into, and removal from, the recess 520.

[0330] The headgear clip 400 may comprise at least one protrusion 468 on an inside of the prong 460. For instance, as shown in Figure 35, the headgear clip 400 may comprise two protrusions 468 on the inside of the prong 460. The at least one protrusion 468 may be configured to prevent the prong 460 from being removed from the prong recess 520. For instance, in use, when the mask 500 and headgear clip 400 are positioned on a patient's face, the at least one protrusion 468 may prevent the prong 460 being removed from the prong recess 520 in an outwards direction away from the patient's face.

[0331] As shown in Figure 35, the headgear clip 400 may comprise tapered protrusions 467, configured to guide the prong 460 of the headgear clip 400 into connection with the prong recess 520 of the mask 500. For instance, as shown in Figure 35, when the prong 460 is aligned with the prong recess 520, the tapered protrusions 467 are configured to abut the frame of the mask 500. There may be multiple tapered protrusions 467, For instance, as shown in Figure 35, the headgear clip 400 may comprise two tapered protrusions 467, arranged either side of the prong 460.

[0332] The headgear clip 400 may be configured so that when the headgear clip 400 is in connection with the mask 500, the headgear clip 400 is oriented vertically relative to the mask 500, as shown for example in Figures 32 and 35. This may be advantageous because it may improve the force translation from the headgear straps to the mask 500.

[0333] Figures 36 to 39 show a partial views of a frame for a mask, and Figures 36 and 39 show the frame connected with a frame connector 421 of a headgear clip 400. As shown in Figures 36 to 39, the frame connector 421 of the headgear clip 400 may comprise at least one lug 470. The lug 470 is a protrusion with a stem and a head. The clip connection 510 of the mask 500 may define at least one lug recess 580 configured to reversibly connect with the at least one lug 470 by receiving the stem of the lug.

[0334] In some configurations, as shown in Figures 40 to 41 , the frame connector 421 of the headgear clip 400 may define at least one lug recess 480. The clip connection 510 of the mask 500 may comprise at least one lug 570, configured to reversibly connect with the at least one lug recess 480 of the headgear clip 400.

[0335] As shown in Figures 36 to 39, the headgear clip 400 may comprise two lugs 470 and the mask 500 may comprise two corresponding lug recesses 580. The mask 500 may comprise a rib 581 that extends between the two lug recesses 580. It should be appreciated that when the lugs 470 of the headgear clip 400 are connected to the lug recesses 580 of the mask 500, the rib 581 may create a snap fit connection with each lug 470.

[0336] As shown in Figures 40 to 41 , the headgear clip may comprise two lug recesses 480, and the mask 500 may comprise two corresponding lugs 570. As shown in Figure 40, the mask 500 may comprise a bridge 582 that extends between each lug 570. The bridge 582 may define a space between the bridge 582 and a surface of the mask 500. As shown in Figure 41 , the headgear clip 400 may comprise a connecting portion 481 that connects between the two lug recesses 480. The connecting portion 481 , as shown in Figure 40, may be configured to insert into the space between the bridge 582 and the mask 500, when the lugs 570 and lug recesses 480 are connected. The connection of the connecting portion 481 into the space may be a snap fit connection.

[0337] With reference to Figures 42 to 44, the mask connection 420 of the headgear clip 400 may comprise a pair of elongated arms 485. The clip connection 510 of the mask 500 may comprise a mount 585, configured to reversibly connect to the elongated arms 485 of the headgear clip 400.

[0338] As shown in Figure 43, each of the elongated arms 485 may reversibly connect over opposing sides 587 of the mount 585. For instance, the elongated arms 485 may slide over the opposing sides 587 of the mount 585 to attach or remove the headgear clip 400 to the mask 500.

[0339] As shown in Figure 44, the opposing sides 587 of the mount 585 may have grooves 588. The grooves 588 may be configured to receive the elongated arms 485. The grooves 588 may be configured to guide the elongated arms 485 to slide into connection with the mount 585.

[0340] The elongated arms 485 may be configured to reduce accidental disconnection between the headgear clip 400 and the mount 585 of the mask 500. For instance, as shown in Figures 42 and 43, each elongated arm 485 may have a protrusion 486 that is configured to face inwards towards the other elongated arm 485. As shown, in Figure 43, the protrusions 486 may be configured to at least partially extend over an end side 586 of the mount 585, when the elongated arms 485 are connected to the mount 585. The protrusions 486 may create a resistance to the elongated arms 485 sliding away from the mount 585 in a removal direction.

[0341] The mount 585 may be configured to reduce accidental disconnection between the mask 500 and the elongated arms 485 of the headgear clip 400. For instance, the mount 585 may have a pair of tabs 589. As shown in Figure 43, the tabs 589 may be configured to each extend over an elongated arm 485, when the elongated arms 485 are connected to the mount 585. It should be appreciated that the tabs 589 may prevent the elongated arms 485 from sliding off the mount 585. For instance, the tabs 589 may prevent the elongated arms 485 from sliding off the mount 585 in a direction perpendicular to the intended clipping direction (for instance, outwards, away from the patient's face, when the mask 500 and headgear clip are positioned on the patient's face, in use).

[0342] With reference to Figures 45 to 47, the mask connection 420 of the headgear clip 400 may define a tab 490. The clip connection 510 of the mask 500 may define a tab recess 590.

[0343] The tab 490 may be configured to connect to the mask 500 by insertion into the tab recess 590. The tab recess 590 may be configured to receive the tab 490.

[0344] The tab recess 590 may be configured to prevent accidental disconnection between the tab 490 and the tab recess 590. As shown in Figure 47, the tab recess may have a narrower portion 591 and a wider or open portion 592. The width of the tab recess 590 may be narrower at the narrower portion 591 than at the wider portion 592. The narrower portion 591 may create a resistance to removal of the tab 490 when the tab 490 is inserted in the tab recess 590.

[0345] The tab 490 may be configured to be depressed to facilitate intentional connection and removal of the tab 490 from the tab recess 590. The tab 490 may be depressed by the patient 600 pressing on the tab 490. Depressing the tab 490 may temporarily decrease the width of the tab 490 so that the tab 490 can more easily be inserted or removed from the tab recess 590. For instance, the tab 490 can be depressed to have a smaller width than that defined by the narrower portion 591 of the tab recess 590. This may allow the tab 490 to be inserted or removed past the narrower portion 591 .

[0346] As shown in Figures 48 and 49, the mask connection 420 of the headgear clip 400 may comprise a block 495 that projects from the inside 432 of the headgear clip 400. As shown in Figure 50, the clip connection 510 of the mask 500 may define a block recess 595, configured to reversibly connect with the block 495 of the headgear clip 400,

[0347] The block 495 of the headgear clip 400 may comprise an end portion 496 and a middle portion 497. As shown in Figure 49, the end portion 496 may have a greater width than the middle portion 497.

[0348] The block 495 may be configured to connect to the block recess 595 by sliding the middle portion 497 of the block 495 into the block recess 595. When connected with the block recess 595, as shown in Figure 48, the end portion 496 of the block 495 may overlap the surface of the mask 500, as shown in Figure 48.

[0349] The block 495 and / or block recess 595 may be configured to reduce accidental disconnection. As shown in Figure 49, the middle portion 497 of the block 495 may comprise at least one arm 498, configured to connect to the block recess 595. When the block 495 is connected to the block recess 595, the at least one arm 498 may be configured to create resistance to removal. For instance, as shown in Figure 50, the block recess 595 may comprise at least one protrusion 598, which in connection, abuts the at least one arm 498.

[0350] The at least one arm 498 may be flexible. For instance, the at least one arm 498 may be bendable inwards towards a centre of the block 495. It should be appreciated that when the at least one arm 498 is pressed upon (for instance, by contact with the at least one protrusion 598 of the block recess 595, as shown in Figure 50) it may bend inwards. This may enable a patient to intentionally remove the block 495 from the block recess 595.

[0351] As discussed, it may be desirable to configure the headgear 100 to have structure such that the headgear 100 may more readily retain its shape during donning and doffing. For instance, structural support may help the headgear 100 retain its shape particularly when the headgear is donned or doffed by swinging it about the patient's head.

[0352] In particular, it may be desirable to prevent collapse of the top strap portion of a headgear when the headgear is being donned and doffed by a patient. To this end, increased stiffness may be provided to the headgear in lateral portions of the top strap and / or upper side straps.

[0353] In some examples, such increased stiffness maybe be provided by welding one or more further materials onto parts of the headgear which are to be stiffened. The panels may be of the same or different materials. In one example, a nylon material may be welded to one or more panels of the headgear to increase its stiffness.

[0354] Figure 51 shows the panel components of a headgear 100. The headgear 100 has a first panel 110. The first panel comprises the rear portion 200 of the headgear, a first upper side strap 301 , a second upper side strap 302, a first lower side strap 303, a second lower side strap 304, a first top strap 305, and a second top strap 306. Supplementary panels 130, 140, and 150 have been provided on the first panel 110 and welded thereto. The welded supplementary panels 130, 140, and 150 provide increased stiffness to the headgear 100 at their respective locations. The first supplementary panel 130 and second supplementary panel 140 extend from the lateral peripheries of the rear portion 200 and respectively along the first upper side strap 301 and second upper side strap 302. The first supplementary panel 130 and second supplementary panel 140 operate in use to increase the stiffness of the first upper side strap 301 and second upper side strap 302, particularly in their respective parts adjacent to the rear portion 200. The third supplementary panel 150 is located across the rear portion 200, at or towards an upper edge of the rear portion. The third supplementary panel 150 provides stiffness to the rear portion 200.

[0355] As seen in Figure 51 , the first supplementary panel 130 and second supplementary panel 140 decrease in width in a direction from the rear portion along the upper side straps 301 and 302. The narrowed portions of the first supplementary panel 130 and second supplementary panel 140 are each located towards one side of their respective straps, being the sides which in use are the lower or bottom sides of the straps. The narrowing of the first supplementary panel 130 and second supplementary panel 140 exposes more of the first panel 110 than if the supplementary panels were of continuous width along the straps. This may be desirable where the strap ends are to be connected back onto the body of the straps, such as by a hook and loop interaction. In use where the first upper side strap 301 and second upper side strap 302 are unsupported along their length they are likely to collapse downwards under the influence of gravity. The location of the narrowed supplementary panels 130 and 140 along the lower edges of the side straps 301 and 302 provides stiffness to resist such collapsing under the influence of gravity.

[0356] Figure 52 shows the panel components of a headgear 100. The headgear 100 has a first panel 110 which, like the headgear 100 of Figure 51 , comprises the rear portion 200, and each of the straps 301 -306. In the configuration of Figure 52, a first supplementary panel 130 and second supplementary panel 140 are provided to the first upper side strap 301 and second upper side strap 302 respectively. In the illustrated embodiment the first supplementary panel 130 and second supplementary panel 140 are welded to the first panel 110. The first supplementary panel 130 and second supplementary panel 140 are located towards the lower sides of the first upper side strap 301 and second upper side strap 302. The first supplementary panel 130 and second supplementary panel 140 are substantially continuous in their width along the straps 301 and 302. A third supplementary panel 150 is provided to the rear portion 200. The third supplementary panel 150 extends laterally across the rear portion 200, and partially along each of the first top strap 305 and second top strap 306. The third supplementary panel 150 is welded to the first panel 110 and so increases the stiffness of the headgear across the rear portion 200 and along at least the adjacent portions of each of the first top strap 305 and second top strap 306. The third supplementary panel 150 may have a linear form but may be curved when applied to the first panel 110 to follow a curvature of the rear portion 200 and the first top strap 305 and second top strap 306. By manufacturing the third supplementary panel 150 with a linear shape the yield of the constituent material may be increased, increasing efficiency and decreasing waste.

[0357] Figure 53 shows the panel components of a headgear 100. The headgear has a first panel 110 which comprises the rear portion 200 and each of the first top strap 305 and second top strap 306. The headgear has respective second panels 120 which are welded to the first panel 110, and which respectively define the first upper side strap 301 , second upper side strap 302, first lower side strap 303, and second lower side strap 304. The first panel 110 is of a material that is relatively thinner and less stiff than the material of the second panels 120. The relative thinnessand / or stiffness of the first panel 110 allows the bulk and weight of the headgear to be reduced, particularly around the rear and upper parts of a patient's head in use. Meanwhile, the relative thickness and stiffness of the straps 301 -304 helps ensure that they retain a sufficient degree of structure when donning and doffing.

[0358] The headgear 100 of Figure 53 has a first supplementary panel 130, a second supplementary panel 140, and a third supplementary panel 150. Each of the first and second supplementary panels 130 and 140 extend along part of a respective upper side strap 301 , 302, across respective lateral parts of the rear portion 200, and along part of a respective one of the lower side straps 303, 304. The third supplementary panel 150 extends along the rear portion 200.

[0359] As shown in Figure 53, the first supplementary panel 130, second supplementary panel 140 and third supplementary panel 150 each have a linear shape before they are applied to the remainder of the headgear. In application, the first and second supplementary panels 130, 140 are curved to extend from the upper side strap, across the rear portion, and along the lower side strap as shown in Figure 53. The third supplementary panel 150 is curved to extend across the rear portion 200, as shown in Figure 53. By this arrangement the yield of the material from which the first supplementary panel 130, second supplementary panel 140 and third supplementary panel 150 are cut may be increased, relative to if the panels were cut out as curved shapes. In addition, curving the first supplementary panel 130 and second supplementary panel 140 when applying them to the first panel 110 and second panels 120 may cause them to distort out-of-plane. This distortion, as shown in Figure 53, may cause the parts of the first panel 110 and second panels 120 to be distorted out-of-plane, such that it is imparted with a three-dimensional shape. The three- dimensional shape may itself increase the stiffness of the headgear 100, and so help it retain its shape in donning and doffing.

[0360] Where supplementary panels are added to the headgear to increase its stiffness, one or more of the panels may include one or more of a hook or loop surface. For example, as shown in Figure 53, the second panels 120 may have a hook surface on their illustrated face, such that a loop fixture at the end of the straps can be used to fasten the strap end back onto the body of the strap. In this configuration, the first supplementary panel 130 and second supplementary panel 140 may also be provided with a hook surface, such that the strap end may be connected onto the straps and / or onto the supplementary panels 130, 140.

[0361] In some configurations, a supplementary panel or panels provided to the headgear 100 may be of a laminate construction. For example, as shown in Figure 54 and 55, a supplementary panel 130 in the form of a textile and foam laminate may be utilised. The supplementary panels 130 of Figure 54 and 55 may be provided on the interior or patient-facing side of the headgear 100. They may be welded to the other panel or panels of the headgear. They may provide increasedstructure to the headgear, while, due to their foam laminate construction, maintaining cushioning and comfort for the patient.

[0362] In Figure 54 the supplementary panel 130 extends across an upper part of the rear portion 200, towards the first top strap 305, and along a majority of the first upper side strap 301 . While not shown in Figure 54, the supplementary panel 130 may extend along corresponding portions of the right side of the headgear 100 symmetrically as with the left side of the headgear 100.

[0363] In Figure 55, the supplementary panel 130 extends along a majority of the first lower side strap 303, and along the rear portion 200 towards each of the first top strap 305 and first upper side strap 301. As shown in Figure 55, which shows only the left portion of the headgear 100, another supplementary panel 130 may be provided at the right portion of the headgear to extend along a majority of the second lower side strap 304, and along the rear portion 200 towards each of the second top strap 306 and second upper side strap 302 (not shown).

[0364] In some configurations, supplementary panels may be added to the other panel or panels of the headgear on both a patient-facing and non-patient-facing side of the headgear. Supplementary panels may be attached to another panel or panels of the headgear by stitching, fusing, adhesive, or any combination of these.

[0365] Where supplementary panels are fused to another panel or panel of the headgear the fusing may be accomplished by fusing, such as by welding and / or thermoforming, as previously described in relation to the first panel 210 and second panel 220.

[0366] Figures 56 and 57 show one such example of the use of supplementary panels. Figure 56 shows a left-hand portion of the patient-facing side of the headgear 100. A first supplementary panel 130 is provided along a majority of the first upper side strap 301 and extending onto a lateral part of the rear portion 200. A second supplementary panel 140 is provided along a majority of the first lower side strap 303 and extending onto the rear portion 200. The first supplementary panel 130 and second supplementary panel 140 may for example be laminate panels, such as fabric foam laminate panels, as previously described to provide additional compliance and comfort on the patient-facing side of the headgear 100. The right-hand side of the patient-facing side of the headgear may include corresponding first and second supplementary panels 130, 140.

[0367] Figure 57 shows the non-patient-facing side of the portion of the headgear 100 illustrated in Figure 56. A third supplementary panel 150 is provided on the non-patient facing side of the headgear 100. The third supplementary panel 150 extends along the rear portion 200 and partially along the first top strap 305, towards and upper edge of the headgear 100. As the third supplementary panel 150 is provided at the non-patient-facing side of the headgear, the third supplementary panel 150 may be of any material without consideration for its compliance orsoftness. For example, the third supplementary panel 150 may be of a nylon material. The third supplementary panel 150 may provide stiffness to the rear portion 200 and top straps 305, 306.

[0368] A headgear 100 may include one or more recesses to facilitate the headgear assuming a desired three-dimensional shape. Figure 58 shows part of a non-patient-facing side of a headgear 100. The headgear 100 has recesses 161 and 162 at an upper side of each top strap 305 and 306, adjacent to the rear portion 200. The headgear 100 has recesses 163 and 164 that project into the headgear between each of the first upper side strap 301 and first top strap 305, and the second upper side strap 302 and second top strap 306. Together, the recesses 161 -164 aid the rear portion 200 and first top strap 305 and second top strap 306 in assuming a frustoconical or halo-like three-dimensional shape. The recesses 161 and 162 allow the effective length along the upper edge of the rear portion 200, first top strap 305, and second top strap 306 to decrease when the top strap ends are connected to form a loop with the rear portion 200. At the same time, the recesses 163 and 164 allow the effective length along the lower edge of the rear portion 200, first top strap 305, and second top strap 306 to increase when the top strap ends are connected to form a loop with the rear portion. Accordingly, the recesses 161 -164 may facilitate the two- dimensional panels of the headgear in assuming a three-dimensional shape in use that corresponds with the contours of the rear of the patient's head.

[0369] In Figure 58 a first supplementary panel 130 is welded to the rear portion 200 towards its upper edge. The supplementary panel 130 may thus increase the stiffness of the rear portion, particularly towards its upper edge. The first supplementary panel 130 may be a fabric and foam laminate. The first supplementary panel 130 may be welded to the underlying panel or panels of the headgear across its entire surface, or in one or more discrete or continuous areas. As shown in Figure 58, the first supplementary panel 130 is welded to the rear portion 200 about a periphery of the first supplementary panel 130.

[0370] Second supplementary panels 140 are provided to the upper portions of each of the straps 301 -306, adjacent to the rear portion 200. The second supplementary panels 140 may be welded to their respective straps 301 -304. The second supplementary panels 140 may provide additional structure and stiffness to the straps 301 -304. The second supplementary panels 140 may be of a hook or a loop material, to correspond with either a loop or hook material provided to the ends of the straps, such that they can be connected back onto the respective second supplementary panels 140.

[0371] A rigid arm 700 is shown in Figures 59 to 67. The rigid arm 700 may be configured to connect to and / or support other parts of the headgear 100.

[0372] The rigid arm 700 may be configured to provide structural support to the other components of the headgear 100. For instance, the rigid arm 700 may help the panels of the headgear 100 retain their shape during donning and doffing.

[0373] The rigid arm 700 may extend from the headgear clip 400. For instance, as shown inFigures 59 to 67, the rigid arm 700 may extend from a headgear side of the headgear clip 400. The rigid arm 700 may be integrally connected to the headgear clip 400.

[0374] With reference to Figure 59, when in use, an inside of the rigid arm 700 may contact the face of the patient 600. The rigid arm 700 may be configured to reduce discomfort for the patient 600. For instance, as shown in Figure 59, the inside surface of the rigid arm 700 may comprise a foam laminate 721. By way of further example, as shown in Figure 63, substantially all of the rigid arm 700 may be covered in a soft and / or compliant material (such as a foam laminate). By way of further example, a core of the rigid arm 700 may be made of a soft material such as a foam laminate. In such configurations, a layer of thicker and / or rigid material may be welded onto an inside and / or an outside of the foam laminate. It should be appreciated that the thicker and / or rigid material may provide structural support to the rigid arm 700.

[0375] As shown in Figure 59, the rigid arm 700 may be configured to connect to the first upper side strap 301 of the headgear 100. In connection, the rigid arm 700 may extend between the first upper side strap 301 and the headgear clip 400. It should be appreciated that the rigid arm 700 may provide greater support to the headgear 100, compared to if the first upper side strap 301 extended directly to the headgear clip 400.

[0376] The rigid arm 700 may be configured to have multiple connections to the other components of the headgear 100. For instance, as shown in Figures 63 and 65, the rigid arm 700 may connect to both the first top strap 305, second top strap 306, and the rear straps 307, 308 of the headgear 100. For instance, a headgear end 725 of the rigid arm 700 may be forked into a top portion 726 and a rear portion 727. The top portion 726 may connect to the top strap 305, 306 of the headgear 100. The rear portion 727 may connection to the rear straps 307, 308 of the headgear 100.

[0377] The rigid arm 700 may be configured to reversibly connect to the other components of the headgear 100. The rigid arm 700 may comprise at least one connector 710.

[0378] As shown in Figures 61 and 62, the connector 710 may be a slot 711 . A headgear strap may be looped through the slot 711. For instance, Figure 59 shows the first upper side strap 301 inserted through the slot 711 on the inside 102 of the headgear and looped around onto the outside 101 of the headgear 100. By way of further example, Figure 65, shows a rigid arm 700 comprising a first connector 710a and a second connector 710b. The first connector 710a defines a slot 711 and has a second top strap 306 looped through the slot 711. The second connector 710b defines a slot 711 and has a rear strap 308 looped through the slot 711.

[0379] With reference to Figures 66 and 67, the straps of the headgear 100 (for instance the first upper side strap 301 and second upper side strap 302) may connect over the rigid arm 700. For example, Figure 67, shows a first upper side strap 301 that connects over the rigid arm700. The first upper side strap 301 may be connected between the headgear clip 400 and the second top strap 306. The first upper side strap 301 may loop through a connecting loop 310 on the second top strap 306. The portion of the first upper side strap 301 extending through the loop may be defined as a looped portion; the remaining first upper side strap 301 may be defined as the main portion 312. The rigid arm 700 may be configured to extend from the headgear clip 400 so that it is aligned with the main portion 312 of the first upper side strap 301. As shown in Figure 67, in connection, the looped portion 311 may be folded back on, and connected to the main portion 312 of the first upper side strap 301 . When the looped portion 311 is folded back, the rigid arm 700 may be configured to be between the main portion 311 and the looped portion 312 of the first upper side strap 301. The rigid arm 700 may comprise a cut out 730 that is configured to allow the main portion 312 to contact the looped portion 311. The main portion 312 and the looped portion 311 may reversibly connect through this contact.

[0380] The headgear 100 may comprise a stretch region 800. It should be appreciated that the stretch region 800 may be relatively stretchable and / or deformable compared to other regions of the headgear 100. For instance, the stretch region 800 may be made of a relatively thin foam laminate, as shown in Figures 68 to 77.

[0381] The stretch region 800 may allow the headgear 100 to be stretched to different shapes and / or sizes during donning and doffing. This may make it easier for a patient to fit the headgear 100 around their head or to remove the headgear 100 from their head.

[0382] The stretchable and / or deformable character of the least one stretch region 800 may allow a patient to don and doff the headgear 100, whilst minimising the number of headgear straps to be attached or removed from the mask 500. For instance, the stretch region 800 may be configured to allow a patient to don and doff the headgear 100, whilst only attaching or removing a single headgear strap. It should be appreciated that minimising the number of headgear straps to be removed or attached to or from the mask 500 may make it easier for a patient to don and doff the headgear 100 (in particular, patients with impaired dexterity).

[0383] The headgear 100 may comprise a non-stretch region 810. It should be appreciated that the non-stretch region 810 may be thicker and / or more rigid than the stretch region 800. The non-stretch region 810 may help regulate the stretchiness of the headgear 100 to prevent from mask leakage.

[0384] The headgear 100 may connect to the mask 500 via four points of connection. The four points of connection may be the first upper side strap 301 , the first lower side strap 303, the second upper side strap 302 and the second lower side strap 304. The second upper side strap 302 and second lower side strap 304 may be configured to connect to the right-hand side of the mask 500, as is shown in Figure 68. The second upper side strap 302 and second lower strap 304 may be configured to connect to the left-hand side of the mask 500.

[0385] The headgear straps may be reversibly connected to the mask 500. For instance, the headgear straps may be connected to the mask 500 via headgear clips 400.

[0386] The stretch region 800 may be configured to allow a patient to don and doff the headgear 100, whilst attaching or removing only one of the four points of connection. For instance, the stretch region 800 may allow the patient to don and doff the headgear 100 by only attaching or removing the first lower side strap 303 or the second lower side strap 304.

[0387] As shown in Figure 69, the stretch region 800 may be provided at: at least part of the rear portion 200, the first and second top strap 305, 306, and an upper part of the upper side straps 301 , 302 and lower side straps 303, 304. The non-stretch region 810 may be provided at the remainder of the upper and lower side straps 301 , 302, 303, and 304. The non-stretch region 810 may additionally be provided at part of the rear portion 200 (for instance, the non-stretch region 810 may be welded onto part of the rear portion 200).

[0388] In some embodiments, for example as shown in Figure 70, the stretch region 800 may be a contiguous region. In other embodiments, for example as shown in Figure 73, the stretch region 800 may comprise multiple non-contiguous regions.

[0389] As shown in Figure 70, the stretch region 800 may be provided at: the rear portion 200, at least part of the first and second top straps 305 and 306, and an upper part of the upper side straps 301 , 302 and lower side straps 303, 304. The non-stretch region 810 may be provided at the remainder of the upper and lower side straps 301 , 302, 303, and 304.

[0390] As shown in Figure 71 , the stretch region 800 may be provided at a lower portion of the upper side straps 301 , 302. The non-stretch region 810 may be provided on the remainder of the headgear 100.

[0391] As shown in Figure 72 and Figure 73, the headgear 100 has a first panel 110 and a plurality of second panels 120. The first panel 110 may be, or include, a stretch material. The second panels 120 may be, or include, a non-stretch material, or at least when joined to the first panel 110 may be less stretchable than the first panel 110 alone. As shown in Figure 72 and Figure 73, the first panel 110 defines the entire periphery of the headgear 100, and the second panels 120 are selectively overlaid on the first panel 110.

[0392] As shown in Figure 72, a second panel 120a is provided to overlap the first panel 110. The second panel 120a defines the first upper top strap 305, an upper part of the rear portion 200, and the second top strap 306. Second panels 120b and 120c are provided to define each of the first lower side strap 303 and second lower side strap 304. Each of the first upper side strap 301 and second upper side strap 302 are defined by respective first panels 110b and 110c. The second panels 120a-c may be less stretchable than the first panels 110a-c. By this configuration, the lower part of the rear portion 200 and each of the first upper side strap 301 and second upper side strap 302 are defined by the unlapped first panel 110 and accordingly may have increasedstretch relative to the remaining portions of the first panel which are lapped by the second panels 120a-c, and / or unlapped portions of the second panels 120a-c. In other words, a stretch region 800 may be provided at substantially all of the upper side straps 301 , 302, and a lower region of the rear portion 200. The non-stretch region 810 may be provided on the remainder of the headgear 100.

[0393] In Figure 73 the headgear 100 is configured as described in relation to Figure 72, except that second panels 120d and 120e comprise each of the first upper side strap 301 and second upper side strap 302. A gap is provided between the second panel 120a and each of the second panel 120d and second panel 120e. The gap is defined by unlapped portions of the first panel 110b and 110c. Accordingly, stretch regions 800a and 800b are provided between the second panel 120a and each of the second panel 120d and second panel 120e. The stretch regions 800a and 800b may allow stretch between the upper side straps 301 and 302 and the remainder of the headgear 100. The unlapped part of the first panel 110a at the lower part of the rear portion 200 defines a stretch region 800c. The stretch region 800c laterally bisects the rear portion 200. The stretch region 800a is provided at a non-lapped region 231 of the first panel 110. The stretch region 800b is provided at a non-lapped region 232 of the first panel 110. The stretch region 800b is provided at a non-lapped region 233 of the first panel 110.

[0394] It will be appreciated that in the configurations of Figures 72 and 73 the first panel 110a-c may be a contiguous panel which is lapped by the second panels 120a-e at the illustrated non-patient-facing side of the headgear 100.

[0395] Alternatively, the first panel may be provided as separate parts 110a, 110b, and 110c, each lapped and fused to respective parts of the adjacent second panels 120a, 120b, and 120c as described elsewhere herein. Where the first panel 110a is a separate part from the first panel 110b and first panel 110c, the first panel 110a may be lapped to the second panel 120a such as is illustrated of the first panel 210 being lapped to the second panel 210 in Figure 10. The first panel 110a may be lapped to each of the first lower side strap 303 and second lower side strap 304 in a corresponding manner. In such a configuration the headgear 100 defines in order a non-lapped region of each of the lower side straps 303 and 304, respective lapped regions where the lower side straps 303 and 304 lap the first panel 110a, a non-lapped region of the first panel 110a, a lapped region where the first panel 110a laps the second panel 120a, and a non-lapped region of the second panel 120a.

[0396] As shown in Figures 72 and 73, the stretch region 800 of the rear portion 200 extends from a lower extent of the rear portion 200. Where it is provided at the rear portion 200, the stretch region 800 extends across the full width of the rear portion. An upper part of the rear portion is a non-stretch region 810, such that the rear portion 200 is laterally bisected between a non-stretch region 810 which extends downwardly from its upper edge, and a stretch region 800 which extends upwardly from its lower edge. An upper part of the rear portion 200 along with itsassociated straps 301 , 302, 305, and 306 are connected to each of the respective lower side straps 302 and 304 by the stretch region 800 of the rear portion 200. The first lower side strap 303 and second lower side strap 304 are each connected to the rear portion of the headgear at the unlapped part of the first panel 110, in the stretch region 800.

[0397] Figure 74 shows a perspective view of a headgear 100 in an in-use condition, associated with a mask 500. Similarly to the configurations of Figures 72 and 73, at a lower part of the rear portion 200 a first panel 110 is unlapped by a second panel 120, to define a stretch region 800. The first lower side strap 303 and second lower side strap 304 are each connected to the rear portion of the headgear at the unlapped part of the first panel 110, in the stretch region 800.

[0398] As shown in Figures 75 and 76, the stretch region 800 may be provided at a middle region of the rear portion 200. More particularly, the stretch region 800 may be configured to separate the lower side straps 303, 304 from the top straps 305, 306 and the upper side straps 301 , 302. As shown in both of Figures 75 and 76, the headgear 100 has a first panel 110 which is unlapped across a width of the rear portion 200. At both upper and lower parts of the rear portion 200 the first panel 110 is lapped by a second panel 120 to define two non-stretch regions 810a and 810b. The upper non-stretch region 810a is connected to the lower non-stretch region 810b only by the stretch region 800, the unlapped part of the first panel 110.

[0399] In configurations where an unlapped part of the first panel 110 extends across the whole of the headgear, each of the non-stretch region 81 Oa and 81 Ob define a contiguous area where the first panel 110 is lapped by the second panel 120. Where the first panel 110 extends across a lateral width of the headgear the unlapped part of the first panel 110 may be said to span the headgear at that location. For example, the unlapped portion of the first panel 110 may span the rear portion of the headgear between two respective lateral edges of the rear portion.

[0400] In configurations where the first panel 110 is only lapped against adjacent portions of the second panel 120, such as illustrated in relation to the first panel 210 and second panel 220 of Figure 10, the non-stretch region 810 may encompass the part of the second panel 120 which is not lapped by the first panel. Where the joining of the first panel 110 and second panel 120 is such that the stretch of the resulting joined panels is less than the first panel 110 alone, the non-stretch region 810 may also encompass the part of the second panel 120 which is lapped by the first panel 110.

[0401] Where the first panel 110 of the headgear of Figures 75 and / or 76 is only lapped against adjacent portions of the second panel 120, rather than against the whole of the second panel 120, there will be both upper and lower parts of the non-lapped region of the second panel 120. The upper part of the non-lapped region of the second panel 120 will include the first upper side strap 301 , second upper side strap 302, first top strap 305, second top strap 306, and an upper part of the rear portion 200 of the headgear. The lower part of the non-lapped region of theheadgear will include the first lower side strap 303, second lower side strap 304, and a lower part of the rear portion. The upper and lower parts of the non-lapped region of the headgear are separated by the lapped region of the first panel 110 and second panel 120, and the non-lapped region of the first panel 110. The lapped region of the first panel 110 and second panel 120 has two parts. The first part of the lapped region of the first panel 110 and second panel 120 is an upper part, located between the upper part of the non-lapped region of the second panel 120 and the non-lapped region of the first panel 110. The second part of the lapped region of the first panel 110 and the second panel 120 is a lower part, located between the lower part of the non-lapped region of the second panel 120 and the non-lapped region of the first panel 110.

[0402] Where the first panel of the headgear of Figures 75 and / or 76 is only lapped against adjacent portions of the second panel 120, the non-lapped region of the second panel 120 includes an upper part of the rear portion of the headgear. In this configuration, the lapped region of the first panel 110 and second panel 120 is interposed between the upper part of the rear portion, having its upper edge, and the lower part of the rear portion, having its lower edge.

[0403] The non-stretch region 810 has a reduced stretch relative to the unlapped portion of the first panel at the stretch region 800.

[0404] In Figures 75 and 76 the non-stretch region 81 Oa extends across the first upper side strap 301 , second upper side strap 302, first top strap 305, second top strap 306, and an upper part of the rear portion 200. The non-stretch region 81 Ob extends across the first lower side strap 303, a lower part of the rear portion 200, and the second lower side strap 304. The nonstretch region 81 Oa and 81 Ob are bisected by the stretch region 800. In use, the non-stretch regions 81 Oa and 81 Ob each form, in combination with the respiratory interface, a loop about the patient's head.

[0405] In each of Figures 75 and 76 the stretch region 800 of the non-lapped first panel 110 extends across a lateral width of the headgear. As such, it separates the upper non-stretch region 81 Oa from the lower non-stretch region 81 Ob.

[0406] The headgear of Figures 75 and 76 is horizontally bisected by the non-stretch region 800. Any loads applied to either the upper non-stretch region 81 Oa or lower non-stretch region 81 Ob can only be transferred to the other non-stretch region through the stretch region 800. This may allow for at least some isolation of the non-stretch regions 81 Oa and 81 Ob from each other.

[0407] In Figure 75 the first panel 110 at the stretch region 800 has a width across the headgear which is approximately equal to its height between an upper and lower edges of the stretch region 800. In the configuration of Figure 75 the stretch region 800 has a greater height than the height of adjacent parts of each of the non-stretch regions 81 Oa and 81 Ob. The stretch region 800 makes up approximately half of the height of the rear portion 200.

[0408] In Figure 76 the first panel 110 at the stretch region 800 has a width across the headgear which is greater than its height between an upper and lower edges of the stretch region 800. As shown in Figure 76, the stretch region 800 is wider than it is high.

[0409] Figure 77 shows a perspective view of a headgear 100 in an in-use condition, associated with a mask 500. Similarly to the configurations of Figures 75 and 76, a non-lapped region of the first panel 110 defines a stretch region 800. The stretch region 800 separates an upper headgear loop and a lower headgear loop. The upper headgear loop includes the upper side straps 301 , 302, the top straps 305, 305, and an upper part of the rear portion 200. The lower headgear loop includes the lower side straps 303, 304 and a lower part of the rear portion 200. The stretch region 800 bisects the rear portion 200 between lateral sides thereof. The stretch region 800 may allow for compliance at the rear portion by decoupling the upper headgear loop and lower headgear loop from each other. This may provide improved comfort for the patient, while allowing the upper headgear loop and lower headgear loop to have greater stiffness and / or lesser flexibility, to allow the headgear to retain shape and structure during donning and doffing.

[0410] As shown in Figure 78, the headgear 100 comprises a plurality of panels 111 -119. A first panel 111 forms the rear portion 200. Respective panels 112 and 113 extend from the first panel 111 and define the lateral portions of the ear loops 103 and 104, and connection points for the upper side straps 301 , 302, and top straps 305, 306. A panel 114 defines the first upper side strap 301 , and a panel 115 defines the second upper side strap 302. A panel 116 defines the first top strap 305, and a panel 117 defines the second top strap 306. Panels 118 and 119 define the respective first lower side strap 303 and second lower side strap 304, which extend from the first panel 111. The adjacent parts of the panels 111-119 may be joined together. For example, the adjacent parts of the panels 111 -119 may be welded and / or stitched together.

[0411] The panels 111 -119 may be a fabric and foam laminate. The panels 111 -119 may be thermoformed to decrease their thickness, for example around the lateral portions of each of the first ear loop 103 and second ear loop 104. A recess 161 is provided to the rear portion 200 at its lower edge, such that the rear portion 200 is recessed and has a concave edge between the first lower side strap 303 and second lower side strap 305. The recess 161 may act to reduce pressure concentrations being applied to the patient's head or neck by the lower edge of the rear portion 200 in use.

[0412] As shown in Figure 79, the stretch region 800 is provided at a lower part of the rear portion 200, between the first lower side strap 303 and second lower side strap 304. The stretch region 800 is also provided along the medial portions of the first ear loop 103 and second ear loop 104.

[0413] Figure 80 shows a partial view of a non-patient facing side of a headgear 100. The rear portion 200 of the headgear 100 is configured to improve patient comfort around the interfaceof the rear portion 200 with the first lower side strap 303 and second lower side strap 304. This is provided by the first lower arm 214 and second lower arm 215 of the first panel 210 being wider than the corresponding first lower arm 224 and second lower arm 225 of the second panel 220. This provides a non-lapped region of the first panel 210 adjacent the interface between the rear portion 200 and each of the first lower side strap 303 and second lower side strap 304. Where forces are transmitted through the straps in use, this may provide a reducing gradient of pressure across the headgear towards its edges and so improve comfort for the patient.

[0414] Figure 81 shows the first panel 210 of the rear portion 200 of the headgear 100 of Figure 80. Figure 82 shows the first panel 210 lapped to the second panel 220, to define the rear portion 200. As shown in Figure 82, the first lower arm 214 and second lower arm 215 of the first panel 210 have a greater width towards their terminal ends than do the adjacent portions of the first lower arm 224 and second lower arm 225 of the second panel 220. This allows the first panel 210 to define non-lapped regions either side of each of the first lower arm 224 and second lower arm 225.

[0415] As illustrated in Figures 80 and 82, the first lower arm 214 and second lower arm 215 of the first panel 210 are about 70% of the width of the first lower arm 224 and second lower arm 225 of the second panel 220.

[0416] Laterally in relation to a headgear or a part of a headgear (such as for example a rear portion, a panel, a stretch or non-stretch region, or a strap) refers to the respective directions leftwards and rightwards from a reference location, when the headgear is in a lay-flat condition.

[0417] A proximal portion or location is one that is more closely located to a reference location, while a distal portion or location is one that is relatively less closely located to the reference location. For example, as previously described the proximal portions 212a and 213a of the first upper arm 212 and second upper arm 213 are each more closely located to the body 211 of the first panel 210 than are the respective distal portions 212b and 213b.

[0418] Upper and lower descriptors are to be understood with reference to the headgear and / or respiratory interface when worn by a patient with their head in a generally upright orientation.

[0419] The terms forward or forwardly are to be understood with reference to the headgear in use by a patient, and refers to an anterior direction with respect to the patient's head.

[0420] The term reversibly is to be understood as being synonymous with removably.

[0421] References to welding are to be understood, unless the context dictates otherwise, to encompass other methods of fusing such as for example thermoforming.

[0422] Where in the foregoing description reference has been made to elements or integers having known equivalents, then such equivalents are included as if they were individually set forth.

[0423] Although embodiments have been described with reference to a number of illustrative embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. Therefore, the preferred embodiments should be considered in a descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation, and also the technical scope of the invention is not limited to the embodiments. Furthermore, the present invention is defined not by the detailed description of the invention but by the appended claims, and all differences within the scope will be construed as being comprised in the present disclosure.

[0424] Many modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention as herein described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A rear portion for a headgear for a patient interface, the rear portion comprising a first panel and a second panel and each of: a) a non-lapped region of the first panel, b) a lapped region of the first panel and the second panel at which the first panel and the second panel respectively overlap and underlap each other and are fused together, and c) a non-lapped region of the second panel.

2. The rear portion of claim 1 , wherein the rear portion comprises the non-lapped region of the first panel, the lapped region of the first panel and the second panel, and the nonlapped region of the second panel between a lower extent of the rear portion and an upper extent of the rear portion.

3. The rear portion of claim 1 or 2, wherein the rear portion comprises the non-lapped region of the first panel, the lapped region of the first panel and the second panel, and the nonlapped region of the second panel at or towards a central region of the rear portion.

4. The rear portion of any one of claims 1 -3, wherein the rear portion has a first strap connection portion and a second strap connection portion, and the non-lapped region of the first panel, the lapped region of the first panel and the second panel, and the non-lapped region of the second panel at or towards a central region of the rear portion are each located between the first strap connection portion and the second strap connection portion.

5. The rear portion of any one of claims 2-4, wherein the non-lapped region of the first panel is adjacent to the lapped region of the first panel and the second panel.

6. The rear portion of any one of claims 2-5, wherein the non-lapped region of the second panel is adjacent to the lapped region of the first panel and the second panel.

7. The rear portion of any one of claims 3-6, wherein the non-lapped region of the first panel defines the lower extent of the rear portion at the central region thereof.

8. The rear portion of any one of claims 3-7, wherein the non-lapped region of the second panel defines the upper extent of the rear portion at the central region thereof.

9. The rear portion of any one of claims 3-8, wherein the lapped region of the first panel and the second panel is located away from both the upper and lower extents of the rear portion.

10. The rear portion of any one of claims 3-9, wherein at or towards the central region of the rear portion and along a cross-section taken between the upper extent and the lower extent of the rear portion at the central region, the rear portion comprises the non-lapped region of the first panel, the lapped region of the first panel and the second panel, and the non-lapped region of the second panel.11 . The rear portion of any one of claims 3-10, wherein a width, taken in a direction transverse to a lateral direction, of the non-lapped region of the second panel reduces between the central region of the rear portion and respective first lateral regions of the rear portion, the first lateral regions each being adjacent to the central region.

12. The rear portion of claim 11 , wherein the width of the non-lapped region of the second panel increases between the first lateral regions and respectively peripherally located second lateral regions.

13. The rear portion of any one of claims 1 -12, wherein the first panel has a first upper arm and a second upper arm, and a first lower arm and a second lower arm.

14. The rear portion of claim 13, wherein the second panel has a first lower arm and a second lower arm, and a width of the first lower arm and second lower arm of the first panel, taken in a direction transverse to a local direction in which the arms extend, is greater than a corresponding width of each of the first lower arm and second lower arm of the second panel.

15. The rear portion of claim 13 or 14, wherein a width of the first upper arm and the second upper arm, taken in a direction transverse to a local direction in which the arms extend, is less than a corresponding width of each of the first lower arm and the second lower arm.

16. The rear portion of any one of claims 13-15, wherein the first upper arm and the second upper arm are longer than the first lower arm and the second lower arm.

17. The rear portion of any one of claims 13-16, wherein the first upper arm and the second upper arm are each about 4 to about 8 times longer than either of the first lower arm and the second lower arm.

18. The rear portion of any one of claims 13-17, wherein when the rear portion is laid flat, the first upper arm and the second upper arm each have a proximal portion and a distal portion, and an orientation of the first upper arm and the second upper arm each changes between the proximal portion and the distal portion.

19. The rear portion of claim 18, wherein the distal portion of each of the first upper arm and the second upper arm are oriented to extend closer to a lateral direction than the proximal portion of each of the first upper arm and the second upper arm.

20. The rear portion of any one of claims 13-19, wherein the first panel comprises a body and the first upper arm and the second upper arm extend therefrom and are each longer than the first lower arm and the second lower arm, which also extend from the body of the first panel.21 . The rear portion of claim 20, wherein the first upper arm and the second upper arm of the first panel each extend laterally further from the body of the first panel than each of the first lower arm and the second lower arm.

22. The rear portion of any one of claims 13-21 , wherein the first upper arm and the second upper arm each taper in width towards their lateral extents.

23. The rear portion of any one of claims 13-21 , wherein the first upper arm and the second upper arm each increase in width towards their lateral extents.

24. The rear portion of any one of claims 1 -23, wherein the lapped region of the first panel and the second panel at an inside of the rear portion which is for facing a patient's head when worn is defined by the first panel.

25. The rear portion of any one of claims 1 -24, wherein the lapped region of the first panel and the second panel at an outside of the rear portion which is for location away from a patient's head when worn is defined by the second panel.

26. The rear portion of any one of claims 1 -25, wherein the first panel and the second panel each have different stretch properties.

27. The rear portion of any one of claims 1 -26, wherein the first panel and the second panel are both stretchable, and the first panel is more stretchable than the second panel.

28. The rear portion of any one of claims 1 -27, wherein the non-lapped region of the second panel is a first non-lapped region of the second panel, and the rear portion comprises a first upper strap connection portion and a second upper strap connection portion and a first lower strap connection portion and a second lower strap connection portion, wherein each of the first upper strap connection portion, the second upper strap connection portion, the first lower strap connection portion, and the second lower strap connection portion are defined by respective second non-lapped regions of the second panel.

29. The rear portion of claim 28, wherein the first upper strap connection portion, the second upper strap connection portion, the first lower strap connection portion, and the second lower strap connection portion are each provided respectively at a first upper arm, a second upper arm, a first lower arm, and a second lower arm of the rear portion and within the second non-lapped regions of the second panel.

30. The rear portion of claim 28 or 29, wherein the first non-lapped region of the second panel is contiguous with the second non-lapped regions of the second panel.31 . The rear portion of claim 28 or 29, wherein the first non-lapped region of the second panel is non-contiguous with the second non-lapped regions of the second panel.

32. The rear portion of any one of claims 29 to 31 , wherein the first upper arm and the second upper arm at the upper strap connection portions have a greater width than the first lower arm and the second lower arm at the lower strap connection portions.

33. A headgear for a patient interface comprising the rear portion of any one of claims 1-32.

34. The headgear of claim 33, further comprising a first upper strap and a second upper strap and a first lower strap and a second lower strap, each strap extending from the rear portion, and wherein the first upper strap and the second upper strap and first lower strap and thesecond lower strap are each sized and configured such that when the headgear is laid flat each of first upper strap and second upper strap distally converges towards a respective one of the first lower strap and second lower strap.

35. The headgear of claim 34, wherein the first upper strap and the second upper strap and first lower strap and the second lower strap are each sized and configured such that when the headgear is laid flat a distal portion of each of the first upper strap and the second upper strap overlaps with a respective one of the first lower strap and the second lower strap.

36. The headgear of claim 34 or 35, wherein the first upper strap and the second upper strap and first lower strap and the second lower strap each extend from respective non-lapped regions of the second panel, at which the second panel is not lapped by the first panel.

37. The headgear of any one of claims 34-36, wherein the headgear further comprises a first top strap and a second top strap, wherein when laid flat the first upper strap and the second upper strap each are located between respective ones of the first top strap and the first lower strap, and second top strap and the second lower strap.

38. A rear portion for a headgear for a patient interface, the rear portion comprising a first panel and a second panel, wherein an upper portion of the first panel laps a lower portion of the second panel to define a lapped region of the rear portion.

39. The rear portion of claim 38, wherein the rear portion has a head-contacting side for contacting a head of a patient in use and an opposed non-head-contacting side, and at the lapped region of the rear portion the first panel is located at the head-contacting side.

40. The rear portion of claim 38 or 39, wherein at the lapped region of the rear portion the second panel is located at the non-head-contacting side.

41. The rear portion of any one of claims 38-40, wherein a lower portion of the first panel is non-lapped and defines a first non-lapped region of the rear portion.

42. The rear portion of claim 41 , wherein at the first non-lapped region both the head contacting side and non-head-contacting side of the rear portion are defined by the first panel.

43. The rear portion of any one of claims 38-42, wherein an upper portion of the second panel is non-lapped and defines a second non-lapped region of the rear portion.

44. The rear portion of claim 43, wherein at the second non-lapped region both the head contacting side and non-head-contacting side of the rear portion are defined by the second panel.

45. A headgear for a patient interface, the headgear comprising: a rear portion comprising a non-lapped region of a first panel, a lapped region of the first panel and a second panel at which the first panel and the second panel respectively overlap and underlap each other and are fused together, and a non-lapped region of the second panel, anda plurality of straps, each of the plurality of straps connected to the rear portion at strap connection portions of the non-lapped region of the second panel.

46. The headgear of claim 45, wherein the strap connection portions of the non-lapped region of the second panel comprise a first upper strap connection portion, a second upper strap connection portion, a first lower strap connection, and a second lower strap connection portion.

47. The headgear of claim 46, wherein a first top strap and first upper strap are connected at the first upper strap connection portion, a second top strap and second upper strap are connected at the second upper strap connection portion, a first lower strap is connected at the first lower strap connection portion, and a second lower strap is connected at the second lower strap connection portion.

48. The headgear of any one of claim 45-47, wherein the plurality of straps are forwardly extending straps.

49. The headgear of any one of claims 45-48, wherein a width of each of the plurality of straps is substantially the same as a corresponding width of the second panel at each of the strap connection portions.

50. A headgear for a patient interface, the headgear comprising: a non-lapped region of a first panel, a lapped region of the first panel and a second panel, at which the first panel and the second panel respectively overlap and underlap each other and are fused together, and a non-lapped region of the second panel, wherein at a rear portion of the headgear the non-lapped region of the first panel spans the rear portion between two lateral edges thereof.51 . The headgear of claim 50, wherein the lapped region of the first panel and the second panel comprises a first lapped region comprising a first upper side strap, a second upper side strap, a first top strap, a second top strap, and an upper part of the rear portion, and a second lapped region comprising a first lower side strap, a second lower side strap, and a lower part of the rear portion, and wherein the first lapped region and second lapped region are separated by the non-lapped region of the first panel.

52. The headgear of claim 50, wherein the non-lapped region of the second panel comprises a first non-lapped region comprising a first upper side strap, a second upper side strap, a first top strap, a second top strap, and an upper part of the rear portion, and a second non-lapped region comprising a first lower side strap, a second lower side strap, and a lower part of the rear portion, and wherein the first non-lapped region and second non-lapped region are separated by the non-lapped region of the first panel and the lapped region of the first panel and the second panel.

53. The headgear of claim 52, wherein the lapped region of the first panel and the second panel comprises a first lapped region between the non-lapped region of the first panel and the first non-lapped region of the second panel, and a second lapped region between the nonlapped region of the first panel and the second non-lapped region of the second panel.

54. The headgear of any one of claims 50-53, wherein the non-lapped region of the first panel comprises a stretch region, having an increased stretch relative to each of the lapped region of the first panel and the second panel and the non-lapped region of the second panel.

55. A headgear for a patient interface, the headgear comprising: a non-lapped region of a first panel, a lapped region of the first panel and a second panel at which the first panel and the second panel respectively overlap and underlap each other and are fused together, and a non-lapped region of the second panel, wherein the non-lapped region of the first panel includes a lower part of a rear portion of the headgear, and wherein a first lower side strap and a second lower side strap each extend from the lower part of the rear portion of the headgear, at the non-lapped region of the first panel.

56. The headgear of claim 55, wherein the non-lapped region of the first panel at the lower part of the rear portion extends between respective lateral extents of the rear portion.

57. The headgear of claims 55 or 56, wherein the non-lapped region of the first panel comprises a stretch region, having an increased stretch relative to each of the lapped region of the first panel and the second panel and the non-lapped region of the second panel.

58. The headgear of any one of claims 55-57, wherein the lapped region of the first panel and the second panel includes an upper part of the rear portion of the headgear.

59. The headgear of any one of claims 55-57, wherein the non-lapped region of the second panel includes an upper part of the rear portion of the headgear, and the lapped region of the first panel and the second panel is interposed between the upper part of the rear portion and the lower part of the rear portion.

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