Respiratory Mask Fastening Device with Single-Direction Release Slider
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fastening devices for respiratory masks require multiple movements to release the connection, making them impractical for users, especially since they are not easily visible for visual control, and do not allow for simple force application in a defined direction for disengagement.
Innovation Solution
A fastening device comprising a clip with a spring element that latches into a receptacle on the mask body, featuring a slider that moves relative to the clip to deflect the spring element out of its rest position, allowing for easy release by pulling in a defined direction, with a guide element and bevels for secure engagement and disengagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a clip with spring tabs is inserted into a sleeve with lateral recesses, then the connection is securely locked, but releasing the connection requires two separate movements (squeezing spring tabs and pulling clip out) which is impractical
Solution Approach 1:
A slider is introduced as an intermediary component between the user's hand and the spring element. The slider engages with the spring element and, when moved in a single pulling direction, transmits force to deflect the spring element out of its rest position and release the locking mechanism. This mediator simplifies the release operation from two movements to one while maintaining secure locking.
2Ease of operation
If the fastening device is not within the user's field of vision, then the user cannot perform release movements under visual control, but requiring the device to be visible limits the design flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
The release mechanism is designed to be self-indicating through the movement of the slider. As the slider moves in response to pulling forces, it provides tactile and visual feedback about the release process without requiring the user to continuously monitor the device position. The slider's movement along the guide element and engagement with the spring element creates an intuitive operation that does not depend on visual control.
3Ease of operation
If a slider moves relative to the clip to deflect the spring element, then releasing the connection requires only force in a single defined pulling direction, but the mechanism becomes more complex with additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The slider is designed to move dynamically relative to the clip along a guide element, transforming a static locking mechanism into a dynamic release system. The guide element constrains the slider's movement to a specific path, ensuring that force applied in a single pulling direction is efficiently transmitted to deflect the spring element. This dynamic approach simplifies operation while the guide element and slider integration minimize the increase in component count.
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 simplifies the handling of releasing the connection by allowing the user to exert force in a single defined direction, providing a secure hold and easy operation, even in panic situations, with the option for a ripcord for quick release.
Implementation Method 1
a clip (1) with at least one spring element (5) in the area of a mask body for a strap, which is designed to engage in a latching manner in a receptacle (3)
Implementation Method 2
The slider and/or the spring element have at least one inclined plane, over which the slider, when moving relative to the clip, deflects the spring element from its rest position.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The fastening device has clip (1) with spring element which is provided for interlocking engagement with a receptacle (3). A slider (2) is moved relative to the clip by moving a spring element from the rest position to release the connection between clip and sleeve.