Forehead Support Adjustment Mechanism for CPAP Mask Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional forehead supports for facial masks used in CPAP treatments have a limited range of adjustment, which does not provide a universal fit for various head sizes, leading to discomfort and potential facial sores due to inadequate sealing and pressure distribution.
Innovation Solution
A forehead support system with an arcuately shaped channel and slider bar that allows for adjustable positioning, featuring a gear rack and adjustment knob for precise movement, and resilient components for secure fit, enabling a wider range of adjustment to accommodate different facial profiles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional forehead supports are used with limited adjustment range, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different head sizes and facial profiles deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The forehead support is designed with dynamic adjustment capabilities, allowing it to move and adapt to different positions. The support can be adjusted along the bridge of the nose and positioned at various heights on the forehead, transforming a static structure into a dynamic one that adapts to individual facial anatomy.
Solution Approach 2:
The forehead support structure is divided into multiple adjustable segments or components. The support includes a first portion that contacts the forehead and a second portion that extends along the bridge of the nose, with independent adjustment mechanisms for each segment, allowing customized positioning.
2Reliability
If mask straps are tightened to improve sealing, then the seal reliability improves, but the harmful effects on facial features such as nose compression and facial sores increase
Solution Approach 1:
The forehead support acts as an intermediary element between the mask and the wearer's face. It provides a stable anchor point on the forehead, allowing the mask to be secured without tightening the straps excessively, thereby distributing pressure away from sensitive facial features like the nose and cheeks.
Solution Approach 2:
The forehead support is designed to preemptively distribute and cushion the pressure before it reaches the facial features. By providing a broader contact area on the forehead and along the nose bridge, it prevents concentration of force that would otherwise harm the nose and cause facial sores.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the forehead support provides stable positioning, then the mask stability improves, but the range of adjustment for different anthropometric features is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The forehead support is designed with universal adaptability to accommodate various anthropometric features. It can be adjusted to fit different head sizes, forehead shapes, and facial profiles while maintaining stable mask positioning, making it suitable for a broad range of users.
Solution Approach 2:
The support allows for multiple parameter adjustments including position along the forehead, angle relative to the mask, and contact pressure distribution. These adjustable parameters enable the same device to stabilize masks on users with diverse facial anatomies.
Data Source
AI summary
A face mask assembly (FMA) for supplying breathable gas to a wearer. The face mask assembly (FMA) includes a mask frame including a support, a facial cushion attached to the mask frame, and a forehead support. The forehead support includes a forehead cushion assembly and an adjustment knob operatively coupled to the forehead cushion assembly. The adjustment knob is threadably engaged with the forehead cushion assembly such that turning movement of the adjustment knob causes the mask frame to be moved between retracted and extended positions with respect to the forehead cushion assembly.