Patient Interface Headgear With Break-Fit Loop Length Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing CPAP mask systems with elastic straps face issues such as leaks at higher pressures and uncomfortable fit at lower pressures due to the elasticity of the straps, which can lead to inadequate sealing and user discomfort.

Innovation Solution

A non-stretch headgear system with an adjustment mechanism and a break-fit assembly that allows elongation only when a predetermined force is exceeded, enabling easier donning and secure fitting without compromising seal integrity at varying pressures.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If elastic straps are used in headgear, then the headgear can be easily stretched during donning, but the mask seal integrity deteriorates at higher pressures due to strap elasticity

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of donningVSAvoidmask seal integrity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The headgear system is segmented into two distinct functional components: an inelastic headgear structure that maintains seal integrity, and a separate break-fit assembly that provides temporary elasticity during donning. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally without compromising the other.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The break-fit assembly acts as an intermediary element between the inelastic headgear and the mask, providing a controlled elastic interface that facilitates donning while maintaining overall headgear stability and seal integrity during treatment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If inelastic headgear is used, then mask seal integrity is maintained at varying pressures, but the headgear becomes difficult to fit and use due to lack of stretch

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemask seal integrityVSAvoidease of fitting

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The break-fit assembly is designed to undergo preliminary elastic deformation during the donning process, allowing the headgear to be easily fitted. After donning, the break-fit assembly returns to its original state, maintaining the inelastic properties needed for seal integrity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The headgear system transitions from a static inelastic structure to a dynamic system where the break-fit assembly temporarily changes its mechanical properties during donning, then returns to its original state during use, providing both ease of fitting and seal integrity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If elastic straps are used, then the headgear can accommodate head movement, but the strap stretches under pressure causing leaks and discomfort

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccommodation of head movementVSAvoidleaks and discomfort

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of making the entire headgear elastic to accommodate movement, the invention inverts the approach by making the headgear inelastic and adding a controlled elastic element (break-fit assembly) only where needed for donning, thereby eliminating unwanted elasticity during use.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Data Source

PatentUS11806452B2Headgear for patient interface

Publication Date: 2023.11.07 FISHER & PAYKEL HEALTHCARE LTD

AI summary

An interface includes a mask. The mask includes a frame and a seal supported by the frame. Headgear is connected to the mask. The interface includes at least one of (i) an adjustment mechanism that can be set to a use length for a loop defined by the mask and the headgear; and (2) a break-fit assembly that can selectively lengthen the loop defined by the mask and the headgear and return to the use length.