Breathing Mask Frame Geometry for Even Force Distribution
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing patient interface devices for delivering breathing gases, such as masks for treating conditions like obstructive sleep apnea, often suffer from discomfort due to poor fit and distribution of retaining forces, leading to pressure points and reduced stability.
Innovation Solution
A mask frame design with lateral arms that twist and taper, positioned below the central vertical plane, along with a headgear connector that limits rotation, and a closed loop headgear with a buckle system, to distribute retaining forces evenly and minimize pressure points.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional mask frames with straight lateral arms are used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the retaining forces are concentrated causing pressure points and discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The lateral arms are designed with asymmetric geometry including twists and tapers along their length. The arms extend outwardly from the central region and are positioned below the central vertical plane, creating an asymmetric configuration that distributes retaining forces more evenly across the user's face, eliminating pressure points while maintaining structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The lateral arms incorporate three-dimensional geometric features including twists along their length and positioning below the central vertical plane. This dimensional complexity transforms the force distribution pattern from concentrated to distributed, improving comfort without significantly complicating manufacturing
2Stability of the object's composition
If lateral arms extend upward along a vector passing from below the nose to between the temple and ear, then the mask stability is improved, but the mask becomes more obtrusive
Solution Approach 1:
The lateral arms are strategically positioned to extend upward along a specific vector from below the nose to between the temple and ear, targeting specific anatomical regions for optimal stability. This localized positioning provides mechanical stability while minimizing visual and physical obtrusiveness in other areas of the face
3Ease of operation
If the lateral arms are positioned below the central vertical plane, then the force distribution is improved, but the geometric complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Positioning the lateral arms below the central vertical plane creates an asymmetric configuration that naturally improves force distribution across the face. While this requires precise manufacturing, the asymmetric design is integrated into the overall frame geometry, allowing for consistent production through standardized manufacturing processes
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 1a
Figure 1b
AI summary
A mask frame, comprises a central conduit connection aperture and lateral arms having a 3-D curvature. The lateral arms extend: outwardly from a center of the frame, rearwardly, towards the patients ears, and upwardly, along a vector passing from below the nose to a point between the temple the top of the ear. The lateral arms "twist" along their length, such that a bottom margin of an end of each lateral arm is positioned further away from a notional vertical plane passing through the centre of the conduit connection aperture than a top margin. Also provided is an anti-rotation feature which limits or prevents rotation between straps of a headgear, and the mask frame. Further provided is a buckle for a closed loop headgear the buckle being formed with a plurality of openings and posts configured to form an angled headgear strap path through the buckle through which part of a headgear strap loop can pass. The buckle also comprises a friction loop opening through which a further of the headgear strap loop can pass, the angle of the angled path being such that the further part of the headgear strap loop frictionally engages the friction loop opening.