Respiratory Mask Interface With Angled Inlet for Seal Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing respiratory masks struggle with maintaining a stable, airtight seal during use, which can lead to discomfort and reduced effectiveness of CPAP and NIV therapies due to inadequate support and design of the mask interface and headgear.
Innovation Solution
A respiratory mask system featuring a frame with a gas inlet angled between 10 to 45 degrees from vertical, an elliptical shape, and a seal assembly with clips and vents, along with a yoke design that includes magnets and attachment features for secure attachment to the frame, enhancing stability and comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the mask interface is held in a stable position by the headgear, then the airtight seal is maintained, but the mask may still displace or become unstable during use
Solution Approach 1:
The headgear is designed with adjustable straps and flexible components that allow dynamic adaptation to patient movement and facial changes, maintaining mask stability while accommodating physiological variations during sleep or activity
Solution Approach 2:
The headgear allows adjustment of strap tension, angle, and positioning parameters to optimize mask stability for different patients and usage conditions, transforming a static support system into an adaptable one
2Device complexity
If the gas inlet is positioned vertically, then the structure is simple, but the mask may experience displacement due to improper gas flow direction
Solution Approach 1:
The gas inlet is angled at 10 to 45 degrees from vertical, changing the flow direction parameter to optimize gas distribution across the seal, improving mask stability and seal effectiveness without significantly complicating the frame structure
3Ease of manufacture
If the seal assembly uses simple attachment to the frame, then manufacturing is easier, but the seal may not maintain an airtight connection
Solution Approach 1:
The seal assembly is divided into modular components including the seal element, clips, and attachment mechanisms, allowing independent optimization of each component for both manufacturing ease and sealing reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The seal is configured with an elliptical shape that conforms to the curvature of the patient's face and the frame, improving contact area and sealing effectiveness while maintaining manufacturability through standard forming processes
4Device complexity
If the yoke uses basic attachment features, then the device is simpler, but the attachment to the frame is not secure
Solution Approach 1:
The yoke includes pre-positioned attachment features such as magnets and engagement points that are built into the structure during manufacturing, providing secure attachment to the frame without requiring complex assembly steps or additional components
Data Source
AI summary
A respiratory mask system comprising a mask interface comprising a frame for a headgear assembly. The frame comprises a body comprising a first surface and a substantially opposing second surface. The body further comprises a gas inlet and optionally an outlet vent. The gas inlet may be substantially elliptical in shape. The frame may comprise a recessed region for receiving a yoke of a headgear assembly to attach the headgear to the mask interface. The respiratory mask system may also comprise a yoke for attaching to the frame.