PAP Mask Tab Alignment for Friction Seal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing PAP masks often have complex retention mechanisms that can be difficult for users, especially those with dexterity issues, to align and secure properly, leading to suboptimal seals and reduced comfort.
Innovation Solution
The PAP mask design features a mask body with tabs that align with apertures in the mask frame, creating a friction fit seal without relying on complex retention mechanisms, allowing for easier assembly and use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex retention mechanisms are used to secure the mask frame to the mask body, then the seal reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases and ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes complex retention mechanisms (clasps, grips, multiple fasteners) from the mask assembly, retaining only the essential friction fit between the mask frame perimeter and mask body aperture. This extraction of unnecessary components simplifies the assembly process while maintaining adequate seal reliability through the friction fit alone.
Solution Approach 2:
The mask frame and mask body are designed to self-align and self-secure through their geometric features (apertures and peripheral edges) that create a friction fit. The tabs on the mask body pass through apertures in the mask frame, and the friction between the mating surfaces automatically secures the assembly without requiring additional retention mechanisms or complex user manipulation.
2Reliability
If complex retention mechanisms are used to secure the mask frame, then the seal reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates complex retention mechanisms (clasps, grips, multiple fasteners) from the mask assembly, retaining only the essential friction fit between the mask frame perimeter and mask body aperture. This extraction of unnecessary components simplifies the assembly process while maintaining adequate seal reliability through the friction fit alone.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment and retention functions are merged into a single friction fit mechanism. The tabs on the mask body pass through apertures in the mask frame, and the same friction interface that provides alignment also provides retention, eliminating the need for separate alignment and retention mechanisms.
3Ease of operation
If friction fit is used as the only retention mechanism, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies friction fit locally at the interface between the mask frame perimeter and mask body aperture, concentrating the retention function at this specific location. The tabs on the mask body pass through apertures in the mask frame, creating localized friction zones that provide sufficient retention while maintaining ease of assembly.
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
This design enhances user convenience by simplifying the alignment and attachment process, improves seal consistency, and increases comfort during use.
Implementation Method 1
The extension element of the mask frame extends through the aperture of the mask body and the outer perimeter of the extension element friction fits to the continuous perimeter of the aperture of the mask body, thereby creating a seal between the mask frame and the mask body.
Data Source
AI summary
Positive airway pressure (PAP) masks, mask components, and mask kits are described. A mask body includes one or more tabs that insert at least partially through apertures of a mask frame, and act upon perimeter edges of the apertures to properly orient the mask body with respect to the mask frame. The one or more tabs are not configured to retain the mask frame against the mask body. The mask frame can be coupled to the mask body while the one or more tabs guide positioning of the mask body and mask frame for optimum seal between the mask body and mask frame such that they operate as an integrated unit.