Flexible Behind-Ear Connecting Element for Stable Mask Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing forehead support-free breathing masks have complex and difficult-to-use connecting elements that compromise stability, security, and comfort.
Innovation Solution
A connecting element for patient interfaces featuring behind-the-ear elements made of flexible materials, with adjustable brackets and cushioning, allowing for secure and comfortable fit through reversible or irreversible coupling to the temples.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If stiffening devices are added to connecting elements to ensure stability, then stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element uses a flexible temple made of elastic material (such as silicone rubber) that can be bent and shaped to fit the user's head contours. This flexible design provides stability through material elasticity rather than rigid stiffening devices, thereby avoiding increased complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the connecting element by using materials with specific elastic properties and adjusting the thickness and cross-section of the temple. These parameter changes enable the flexible temple to achieve both stability and comfort without requiring additional stiffening components.
2Stability of the object's composition
If complex connecting elements are used to ensure stability, then stability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element is segmented into distinct functional parts: a flexible temple for fitting, a cushioning element for comfort, and a fastening mechanism for securing. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized independently, simplifying the overall design and improving ease of operation while maintaining stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible temple is designed to be easily adjustable and adaptable to different head shapes without requiring complex tools or procedures. The elastic material allows the user to simply bend and position the temple, and the fastening mechanism enables easy adjustment and removal, making the device self-adjusting and user-friendly.
3Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable and flexible components are added for comfort, then comfort is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the temple, cushioning element, and fastening mechanism into an integrated connecting element design. The flexible temple incorporates the cushioning element at its end, and the fastening mechanism is directly attached, eliminating the need for separate adjustable components and reducing overall complexity while maintaining comfort and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible temple serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, ensures stability through elasticity, offers comfort through integrated cushioning, and enables adjustment for different head shapes. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components, thereby avoiding increased complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a stable, secure, and comfortable fit for breathing masks by ensuring ease of use and adaptability to different head shapes, enhancing user experience.
Implementation Method 1
The holding element is slidably coupled to any position of the end section
Implementation Method 2
the temples additionally comprise a cushioning material with elastic and/or viscoelastic properties
Implementation Method 3
the temples additionally comprise a cushioning material with elastic and/or viscoelastic properties
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a connecting element for a patient interface, wherein the connecting element comprises at least one bracket designed for connection to the patient interface, and wherein the connecting element comprises two brackets and at least one behind-the-ear element.