TW201505799A - Method and apparatus for producing face mask cushion - Google Patents

Abstract

Apparatus for cutting of elastic material (2) that comprises: a base plate (4, 4', 1144, 1144'), an opposing center plate portion (14, 14', 1114, 1114') and separation means (10) adapted to, in use, separate at least a portion of the elastic material (2). At least one of the base plate (4, 4', 1144, 1144') and the opposing center plate portion (14, 14', 1114, 1114') is movable relative to the others to change a distance therebetween. This change may compress the elastic material (2) and define a protruding portion (22) of the elastic material (2). At least one of the separation means (10) may be rotatable and the apparatus is arranged to change a distance between the separation means (10) and the opposing center plate portion (14, 14', 1114, 1114') to effect the cutting of the protruding portion (22).

Description

Method and device for producing mask pad

The present technology relates to methods, apparatus, and uses for making foams for three-dimensional components. More particularly, the present technology relates to methods, apparatus, and uses for making foams of components or articles that are generally triangular, toroidal, or donut shaped. This shape may be particularly suitable for the formation of a mask, a forehead support portion of the mask, and a cushion for the cheek support portion of the mask, and is even further suitable for such devices in medical and respiratory masks.

The use of elastic materials, such as foams, has become popular in recent years. Such elastic materials can be used, for example, as cushion materials in medical masks and respiratory masks. Such elastic materials are known in the art, such as in the field of masks for delivering inhalable air to a patient, particularly in the treatment of sleep disordered breathing such as CPAP therapy. In such a mask, the cushion is used to provide a contact zone that contacts the face of the user to improve the user's wearing comfort. Again, such a structure is used as a sealing structure for sealing the interior of the mask relative to the exterior of the mask that rests on the contact area of the face of the user.

Depending on the correct application of the elastomeric material, it is desirable to provide the elastomeric material in a different three-dimensional shape, preferably a foam. This shaping can be achieved by different methods. For example, a molding technique can be used. Alternatively, a block or layered foam sheet may be provided from which a desired shape is cut. This can be achieved, for example, by a distortion cutting process comprising compression cutting or protrusion cutting.

Prominent cutting can be understood to describe a process whereby an elastic material, such as foam 2, is forced under physical pressure to pass through a hole or cavity 8 in the shape of a twisted material, as previously shown in Figure 1. Know the configuration shown. In this figure, a piece of foam 2 is provided and sandwiched between a bottom plate 4 and a pair of plates 6. The opposing plate 6 is provided with a hole 8. After the foam 2 is placed between the bottom plate 4 and the opposing plate 6, physical pressure or force is applied, as indicated by the arrow A. A portion 22 of a foam 2 is pushed by this force and protrudes through the hole 8. This portion is linearly cut by a cutter 10 along the cutting plane 12. Therefore, a cut foam section 200 is separated from the foam 2. This apparatus and method allows for the formation of a solid foam portion 200. However, such a protruding cut of the foam 2 does not have any shape of an opening or a hole (i.e., may be referred to as a solid shape), and does not allow direct production of a foamed section having an opening. For example, a ring-shaped, toroidal or donut-shaped foam section.

However, in some cases, it may also be desirable to cut a section of the foam 2 that is a non-solid shape. Such a shape may be suitable for medical treatment and in particular a respiratory mask, for example for the formation of a mask cushion comprising a nose and/or mouth cushion, a mask forehead support portion and a mask cheek support portion.

Apparatus and methods for the direct production of such an annular portion are known (WO 2010/028426). An apparatus is described with reference to FIG. 2. Moreover, such a device comprises a bottom plate 4 and a pair of plates 6. The opposing plate 6 includes a hole 8. When the foam 2 is compressed, a section 22 of a foam 2 protrudes through the hole 8. The apparatus of FIG. 2 further includes a pair of center plate portions 14 as compared to the apparatus illustrated in connection with FIG. This opposing center plate portion 14 extends through the foam 2 and is anchored to the bottom plate 4 via the foam 2. When the foam 2 is interposed between the bottom plate 4 on one side and the opposing plate 6 on the opposite side and the opposing center plate portion 14, a pressure as indicated by an arrow A can be applied. Due to the anchoring of the opposing center plate section 14, a counter-compression force is applied to a central section of the foam 2 extending through the aperture 8. Since this region is pulled back toward the center plate portion 14, the portion of the foam 2 located in the cross-sectional area of the center plate portion 14 does not protrude through the hole 8. The protruding section of the foam 2 is indicated by reference numeral 22 in FIG. Similar to the apparatus of Fig. 1, a cutter 10 can now be used to cut the protruding foam sections 22 for separating them from the foam 2 by linear movement. Thus, an annular cut foam section 202 having an opening 203 is produced. However, this prior art method has certain drawbacks. The need to be anchored to the opposing center plate portion 14 of the backplane 4 results in a rather complex design with respect to both structure and usability. Again, this anchor cuts through the foam 2, thereby piercing it.

Another known method of making a foam section having an open cell (e.g., a circular or donut shaped foam section) is described in connection with Figure 3. This picture illustrates a compression cutting process. In this compression cutting method, a foam 2 is placed between a bottom plate 4" and a die plate 16", and the die plate 16" includes an opening or a recess in the negative shape of the desired product. 18, that is, having a similar ring shape. Further, a pressure or a compressive force as indicated by an arrow A' is applied to the apparatus, thereby causing the portion 22 of the foam 2 to protrude and fill the gap or recess 18. Then, A cutter 10 can be used to cut linearly along the cutting plane 12. Thus, a truncated foam section 202' is created. This cut foam section 202' includes an inner opening 203 and has a ring, a circle The general shape of the ring or donut. However, there are quite a few disadvantages with regard to this compression cutting method. First, the force required to cut the foam 2 is high because the foaming system is in a compact (dense) It is cut in the state. Again, it is often difficult to obtain a significant amount of height variation of the profile without changing its width.

It is desirable to technically overcome or at least mitigate the disadvantages of the prior art and/or suggest alternative solutions.

In a first embodiment, the present technology relates to a cutting device for an elastic material. The elastic material may be one or a layer of an elastic material and/or may be selected from the group consisting of a foam, a rubber, a gel, and a felt textile. When a foam is used, the foam may be an open cell foam or a closed cell foam. This device contains two plates, which are referred to as a bottom plate and a pair of plates. The opposing plate typically contains a hole. For example, the elastic material of the foam can be placed on the bottom plate and the opposite plate. between. Also, the device also includes a pair of center plate portions. The opposing center plate portion is generally disposed and/or placed on the side of the foam, and the opposing plate is also placed there. In other words, the bottom plate can be placed on one side of the foam, and the opposing plate and the opposing center plate portion can be placed on the opposite side of the foam. This device also includes a separation mechanism. The separating mechanism is adapted to separate at least a portion of the elastomeric material from the remaining elastomeric material. Examples of the separating mechanism include a knife, a blade, a saw, a circular saw, a turkey cutter and a wire, in particular a hot or a heated wire.

Further, at least two of the bottom plate, the opposing plate and the opposing center plate portion are adapted to move relative to each other in a first direction to vary a distance therebetween. For example, the opposing plate may be adapted to move relative to the base plate (ie, the two elements are adapted to move relative to each other). In this configuration, for example, the resilient material can be placed on the bottom plate and the opposing plate can be moved closer to the bottom plate (or vice versa) to secure and compress the resilient material between the bottom plate and the opposing plate. Thus, a section or portion of the elastomeric material can protrude through the aperture of the opposing plate when it is not directly subjected to compressive forces. Also, the opposing center plate portion may be adapted to move relative to the bottom plate and the opposing plate. Thus, the opposing center plate portion can push at least one sector of the elastic material projecting through the aperture of the opposing plate, and in fact, the sector can be prevented from protruding through the hole. In the configuration just described, the base plate, the opposing plate and the opposing center plate portion will be adapted to move relative to each other. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that even though the three components may be preferred for movement relative to one another, other configurations are possible. By way of example only, the opposing plate and the opposing center plate portion may also be fixed relative to each other and movable together. In this configuration, the elastic material can be placed, for example, on the bottom plate, and the opposing plate and the opposing center plate portion can be moved parallel to the bottom plate to squeeze the elastic material and force a portion of the elastic material to protrude through Opposite the hole in the plate while avoiding the protrusion of one of the sectors. In this configuration, the opposing plate and the opposing center plate portion will be adapted to move relative to the bottom plate.

Moreover, in the present technology, on the one hand, at least one of the separating mechanisms and on the other hand, at least one of the bottom plate, the opposing plate and the opposing center plate portion are preferably mutually and/or surrounding one or more axes. Better, it is the same axis rotation. For example, the base plate, the counter plate, and the opposite center The plate portion is rotatably fixed. That is, they may simply rotate together, that is, when one of the elements rotates, the other element also rotates. In this configuration, the elastic material (e.g., foam) that is fixed or squeezed between the bottom plate, the opposing plate, and the opposing center plate portion is forced to be common with the bottom plate, the opposing plate, and the opposing center plate portion. Rotation, that is, the foam is also rotationally fixed to the bottom plate, the opposing plate, and the opposing center plate portion. In this configuration, the bottom plate, the counter plate, the opposing center plate portion, and indeed the elastomeric material can also be rotated relative to the separation mechanism. This rotational movement helps to separate the protruding portions of the elastic material along the entire periphery of the opposing center plate portion.

The term "rotationally secured to something" as used in this description preferably means that more than two components or portions are suitable and preferably fixed or connected to each other, and if one rotates, the other Also follow it to rotate. That is, when the opposing plate portions are rotationally fixed to the bottom plate, they always receive the same rotational movement at the same time and cannot rotate relative to each other. These elements may still be capable of performing a linear movement or a rotational or bending movement with a linear assembly. Further, in the case where another entity does not specifically mention, the term "rotationally fixed" preferably means a state in which something cannot be rotated. However, the components in question may still be able to move linearly. For example, if the separating mechanism is said to be rotationally fixed, it means that the separating mechanism is not rotating. However, the separation mechanism may still be able to move linearly in relation to a compressed configuration comprising the bottom plate, the opposing plate, the opposing center plate portion and the compressed elastomeric material.

Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that configurations other than those described above are also possible. By way of example only, it is not mandatory for the opposing center plate portion to be rotationally fixed to the base plate and/or the opposing plate. For example, especially when the opposing center plate portion is rotationally symmetrical, it is also possible that the opposing center plate portion is not rotationally fixed to the other two elements just described. For example, if the opposing center plate portion is circular, it can push a sector of the protruding portion of the elastic material and prevent it from protruding. In this case, a substantially circular sector of an elastic material is prevented from protruding. Then, it is possible to rotate only the bottom plate and the opposing plate (actually with the elastic material) without rotating the opposing center plate portion with respect to the separating mechanism. Alternatively, the entire compression configuration including the bottom plate, the counter plate, the opposing center plate portion and the compressed elastic material can be rotationally fixed while the cutting mechanism is designed to be used Rotate around this configuration.

The disclosed technology thus provides a new and improved apparatus and method for producing an elastic material that is presented in a non-solid shape. The disclosed technology further allows the use of foam as a preferred material because of material changes in the surface or internal volume of the foam that are often observed using heat-related treatments, not observed in the proposed method. To. In addition, foam production is effective (cost, time), requires less setup steps and achieves satisfactory results. More particularly, a cushion can be prepared in one operation without the need for a secondary cutting process, such as to make a 'hole'.

More particularly, the illustrated apparatus can be adapted for automatic cutting, which can further improve the productivity of the illustrated apparatus. Further, a pair of support members, such as a rod or mandrel, may be provided. In general, such opposing support members can be joined to the opposing center panel portion on the side thereof that is opposite the side or surface that is adapted to contact the elastomeric material. This may allow a particularly simple and convenient method of applying force for preventing a section of resilient material from protruding through the aperture of the opposing plate and rotating the opposing central panel portion, if necessary.

Further, the separating mechanism is preferably adapted to change its distance to the elastic material being squeezed between the bottom plate and the opposing plate. That is, in general, the apparatus is adapted to vary the distance between the separation mechanism and the remaining equipment (e.g., the base plate, the opposing plate, and the opposing center plate portion). This change in distance causes the separation mechanism in contact with the compressed elastomeric material to facilitate the cutting of the protruding section of the elastomeric material. The change in distance may be substantially perpendicular to the first direction, i.e., at least two of the bottom plate, the opposing plate and the opposing center plate portion are adapted to move in a direction relative to each other. The first direction in this embodiment coincides with the direction of at least one of the bottom plate, the opposing plate and the opposing center plate portion along the axis of rotation thereof. More preferably, the apparatus is adapted to vary the distance between the separating mechanism and the opposing center plate portion to the extent that the separating mechanism can at least partially cover the pair in a view along the first direction. On or at least flush with the center plate section. This configuration conveniently allows for direct and complete separation of the sections of elastomeric material that protrude through the aperture.

In an embodiment, the aperture of the opposing plate may be referred to as a first aperture. Counterplate For the movement of the bottom plate, for example, to compress, squeeze or compress an elastic material. Also, the opposing center plate portion can also move relative to the bottom plate. In its movement relative to the bottom plate, the opposing center plate portion may be fixed to the opposing plate or may be independent of the opposing plate. Alternatively, at least one of the opposing plate and the opposing center plate portion can be secured and the bottom plate can be moved relative to the stationary assembly. The opposing center plate portion may be disposed in the first hole or may be configured to extend within the first hole, and the 俾 can be formed between the outer periphery of the pair of the center plate portions and the inner periphery of the first hole a second hole. The resilient material can then be placed between the bottom panel, at least two of the opposing panel and the opposing center panel portion, and project through the second aperture. The compression configuration that supports the elastomeric material can then be rotated relative to the separation mechanism and the separation mechanism can be moved toward the elastomeric material to achieve separation of the elastomeric material along the entire perimeter.

The disclosed technology also relates to a method of cutting an elastic material. Preferably, the previously described apparatus is usable. That is, in this method, a bottom plate, a counter plate including a hole, and a pair of center plate portions are provided. Further, an elastic material is disposed between the bottom plate and the opposing plate and the opposing center plate portion. a distance between the opposing center plate portion and at least one of the bottom plate and the opposing plate along a first direction is adjusted such that the foam only protrudes beyond the outer periphery of the pair of center plate portions Between the inner periphery of the hole of the opposite plate. Also, for example, as previously explained, a separation mechanism adapted to separate at least a portion of the elastomeric material from the remaining elastomeric material is provided. Also, a rotational movement is accomplished between the elastic material and the separation mechanism, and the distance between the separation mechanism and the opposing center plate portion is varied to separate the protruding elastic material from the unprojected elastic material.

Again, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the above described rotational movement is not limited to purely mathematical rotational movement. Preferably, within the meaning of the presently disclosed technology, a combination comprising a rotational movement may be referred to as rotational movement. The disclosed technology is particularly suitable or allows for the production of mask cushions, forehead support portions, cheek support portions for patient interface, such as masks, particularly medical masks and more particularly respiratory masks.

The disclosed technology, whether in the form of the device discussed above or its associated method, allows for a non-solid foam cushion that is shaped to closely match the shape of the face. Production. The disclosed technology further allows for the use of a foam to be used as a preferred material because the process involved in the disclosed technique does not alter the properties of the foam in any way. More specifically, it has been observed that there is no skin or property change caused by the permanent formation of materials due to, for example, the use of heat. In addition, the foam production system is more efficient (cost, time), requires fewer setup steps, and achieves satisfactory results. More particularly, a cushion can be prepared in one operation without the need for, for example, a secondary cutting process to make an 'opening'.

Additionally or alternatively, the disclosed techniques are related to the embodiments described below.

1. Apparatus for cutting an elastic material (2), the apparatus comprising: a bottom plate (4, 4'), a pair of plates (6, 6') comprising a hole (8, 8'), a pair a center plate portion (14, 14'), and a separating mechanism (10) adapted to separate at least a portion of the elastic material (2), wherein: the bottom plate (4, 4'), the opposite plate (6, 6') and At least two of the opposing center plate portions (14, 14') are adapted to move relative to each other in a first direction to change a distance therebetween, and on the other hand at least one of the separating mechanisms (10) In one aspect, at least one of the bottom plate (4, 4'), the opposing plate (6, 6') and the opposing center plate portion (14, 14') are preferably relative to each other and/or around one or more The axes, preferably the same axis, rotate.

2. The apparatus according to the embodiment 1, wherein the elastic material (2) is an elastic material of one piece or one layer and/or is selected from the group consisting of a foam, in particular an open-cell foam, a closed-cell foam, a rubber , a group of colloids and felt textiles.

3. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the apparatus is adapted to form a mask cushion for a patient interface, a forehead support portion and/or a cheek support portion, such as a mask, in particular a medical mask, and more Good to be a breathing mask.

4. Apparatus according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the base plate (4) is substantially planar.

5. Apparatus according to any one of embodiments 1 to 4, wherein the bottom plate (4') is not planar and/or comprises a tapered portion.

6. Apparatus according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the opposing plate (6) is substantially planar.

7. Apparatus according to any one of embodiments 1 to 5, wherein the opposing plate (6') is not planar and/or is of a generally frustoconical shape.

8. Apparatus according to any of the preceding embodiments, when in accordance with embodiment 4, an embodiment 6 is contemplated, wherein the bottom plate is of a substantially circular shape and is in the opposing plate (6, 6') The distance from the bottom plate (4, 4') can be changed in the radial direction.

9. Apparatus according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the distance between the opposing plate (6, 6') and the bottom plate (4, 4') is preferably changeable in a first direction.

10. Apparatus according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the opposing central plate sections (14, 14') are substantially planar.

11. Apparatus according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the opposing central plate section (14') is not planar and is preferably conical.

12. Apparatus according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the aperture (8) in the opposing plate (6) preferably has a view when viewed in a direction substantially perpendicular to the opposing plate (14, 14') A generally triangular circumferential shape.

13. Apparatus according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the separating mechanism (10) is adapted to separate the elastic material (2) along a separating plane (12).

14. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the opposing central plate portion (14, 14') comprises a first major surface (142) facing the bottom plate (4, 4') and a first facing opposite direction The two major surfaces (144), and/or wherein the opposing plates (6, 6') comprise a first surface (62) and a second surface (64), and wherein the device is adapted to be positioned To the center plate portion (14, 14') such that the first major surface (142) and the second major surface (144) are aligned with the opposing plates (6, 6') in the separation plane (12, 12') On the same side.

15. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the opposing central plate portion (14, 14') comprises a first major surface (142) facing the bottom plate (4, 4') and a first facing opposite direction The two major surfaces (144), and/or wherein the opposing plates (6, 6') comprise a first surface (62) and a second surface (64), and wherein the apparatus is adapted to position the opposing center plate portion (14, 14') such that the first major surface (142) is tied to the side of the separation plane (12, 12') of the opposing plate (6, 6') and is placed on the separation plane (12, 12) The distance between the ') and the first major surface (142) of the opposing center plate portion (14, 14') is greater than the second at the separation plane (12, 12') and the opposite plate (6, 6') The distance between the major surfaces (64).

16. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the opposing central plate portion (14, 14') has a generally triangular shape having rounded corners when viewed from a top view of the first direction.

17. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the separating mechanism (10) is selected from the group consisting of a knife, a blade, a saw, in particular a continuous saw, such as a band saw, a circular saw or a turkey. A cutting tool, a wire, in particular a heated or heated wire.

18. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the apparatus is adapted to vary the distance between the separating mechanism (10) and the opposing center plate portion (14, 14'), in particular towards a vertical a direction and/or parallel to the direction of the first surface (62) of the opposing plate (6, 6'); wherein the apparatus is preferably adapted to vary the distance to such an extent as to In a directional view, the separating mechanism (10) can achieve at least one of: at least partially lie above the opposing center plate portion (14, 14'); aligned with the opposing center plate portion (14, 14') Flat; and almost become in contact with an opposing support member (e.g., a mandrel (30)) that is attached to the opposing center panel.

19. Apparatus according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the separation plane (12) is substantially perpendicular to the first direction.

20. Apparatus according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the separation plane (12) is inclined with respect to a plane perpendicular to the first direction.

21. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the base plate (4, 4') is coupled to a base support member, such as a mandrel (18).

22. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the apparatus is adapted to change a counter center plate portion (14, 14') and a bottom plate (4, 4') and a counter plate (6, 6' The distance between the two.

23. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein a pair of support members, such as a mandrel (30), is attached to the opposing central plate portion (14, 14') by a second major surface (144) thereof. The second major surface (144) is opposite its first major surface (142), and the first major surface (142) faces the bottom plate (4, 4').

24. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the opposing central plate portion (14, 14') is adapted to be secured to the base plate (4, 4'), preferably by means of bolts or screws.

25. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the base plate (4, 4'), the opposing plate (6, 6') and the opposing center plate portion (14, 14') are rotationally fixed, and The separating mechanism (10) is adapted to rotate or swivel relative to the bottom plate (4, 4'), the opposing plates (6, 6') and the opposing center plate portions (14, 14').

26. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the separating mechanism (10) is rotationally fixed while the bottom plate (4, 4'), the opposing plate (6, 6') and the opposing center plate portion ( 14, 14') is adapted to rotate or swivel about a common axis of rotation, preferably parallel to the first direction.

27. Apparatus according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the base plate (4, 4'), the opposing plate (6, 6') and the opposing center plate portion (14, 14') are adapted to rotate to An axis of rotation (preferably a common axis of rotation) is rotated in one direction (preferably parallel to the first direction), and wherein the separating mechanism (10) is preferably adapted to rotate or rotate in the opposite direction.

28. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the opposing central plate portion (14, 14') is rotationally fixed to the base plate (4, 4') and the opposing plate (6, 6').

29. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the bottom plate (4, 4') is substantially horizontally disposed, and wherein the opposing plates (6, 6') are preferably parallel to the bottom plate (4, 4) ') is configured, preferably above or below the bottom plate (4, 4').

30. Apparatus according to any one of embodiments 1 to 28, wherein the bottom plate (4, 4') is arranged substantially vertically, and wherein the opposing plate (6, 6') is preferably parallel to the bottom plate (4) , 4') is configured, compared It is the left or right side of the bottom plate (4, 4').

31. Apparatus according to any of the preceding embodiments 1 to 28, wherein the bottom plate (4, 4') is configured to be inclined relative to a horizontal plane, and wherein the opposing plates (6, 6') are preferably parallel to The bottom plate (4, 4') is configured.

32. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding embodiments, further comprising a spacer (34) adapted to be interposed between the base plate (4, 4') and the opposite plate (6, 6') To define a minimum distance between the bottom plate (4, 4') and the opposite plate (6, 6').

33. Apparatus according to the embodiment 32, wherein the spacer (34) is in the form of a ring and preferably is associated with the base plate (4, 4') and the opposing plate (6, 6') At least one is flush.

34. Apparatus according to any one of embodiments 32 and 33, wherein the spacer (34) is comprised of a rigid material (e.g., metal).

35. Apparatus according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the apparatus is adapted for automated cutting.

36. Apparatus according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the opposing central plate portion (14, 14') comprises a support member extending from its second surface 144, preferably a mandrel (30), and wherein The support plates (6, 6') and/or the bottom plates (4, 4') include a support member extending in the opposite direction to serve as a counter center plate portion support member.

37. Apparatus according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the support members of the pair of central plate portions (14, 14') do not extend through the resilient material.

38. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the apparatus is adapted for distortion cutting, in particular protruding cutting.

39. Apparatus according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the aperture (8, 8') of the counterplate is a first aperture (8, 8'); the opposite panel (6, 6') is relatively Moving on the bottom plate (8, 8'), the opposing center plate portion (14, 14') is movable relative to the bottom plate (8, 8') and configured to extend within the first hole (8, 8') , the 俾 can be outside the center plate portion (14, 14') and a first hole A second hole is formed between the inner periphery of (8, 8'); at least two of the bottom plate (4, 4'), the opposite plate (6, 6') and the opposite center plate portion (14, 14') Equipped with and/or adapted to receive the resilient material therebetween and causing the elastic material to protrude through the second aperture; and on the one hand the separating mechanism (10) and on the other hand one or more of the bottom plates (4, 4' At least one of the opposing plate (6, 6') and the opposing center plate portion (14, 14') is configured to be movable relative to the other for bringing the separating mechanism toward the elastic material and affecting the elastic material Separation.

40. Apparatus for implementing a mode 39, wherein the configuration is such that the elastic material is disposed in the bottom plate (4, 4'), the opposing plate (6, 6') and the opposing center plate portion (14) Between at least two of 14'), at least two of the bottom plate (4, 4'), the opposing plate (6, 6') and the opposing center plate portion (14, 14') are relative to each other Moving in one of the first directions, can change the distance therebetween and cause one of the elastic materials to partially protrude through the second hole; the elastic material and the separating mechanism rotate relative to each other; and the separating mechanism and the elastic material are moved in contact with each other, The separation of the elastic material is completed.

41. Apparatus for performing the aspect 39 or 40, wherein: once the elastic material is placed over the bottom plate (4, 4'), the opposing plate (6, 6') and the opposing center plate portion (14, 14') Moving toward the bottom plate, the crucible compresses the elastic material and causes a portion of the elastic material to protrude through the second hole; 42. Apparatus for performing any one of aspects 39 to 41, wherein once the elastomeric material is compressed in the bottom plate (4, 4'), the opposing plate (6, 6') and the opposing center plate portion (14, 14) Between '), the bottom plate (4, 4'), the opposing plate (6, 6'), the opposing center plate portion (14, 14') and the compressed elastic material simultaneously rotate about the axis.

43. Apparatus according to any one of aspects 39 to 42, wherein the separating mechanism and the elastic material are moved toward each other along a substantially straight line for accomplishing separation of the elastic material.

44. Apparatus according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the base plate (4, 4') and the opposing plate (6, 6') are fixedly attached to each other or are replaced by a single monolithic base element, a single The single stone base member includes a cavity having an opening.

45. Apparatus for cutting an elastic material (2), the apparatus comprising: a single monolithic base member comprising a cavity having an opening, a pair of central plate portions (14, 14'), and a separating mechanism (10) adapted to separate at least a portion of the elastic material (2), wherein: the base member and the opposing center plate portion (14, 14') are adapted to move in a first direction relative to each other to change one therebetween The distance, and at least one of the separation mechanism (10) on the one hand and the at least one of the base member and the opposing center plate portion (14, 14') on the other hand preferably relative to each other and/or around One or more axes, preferably the same axis of rotation.

46. Apparatus for cutting an elastic material (2) according to the embodiment 45, having any of the individual features of any of the individual devices according to the embodiments 2 to 44. Here, it should be understood that the implementation aspect 45 can be considered as a stand-alone implementation with any of the implementations 2 through 44 that are directly and/or individually attached.

M1. A method of cutting an elastic material (2), preferably an apparatus having any one of the foregoing embodiments, the method comprising the steps of: providing a bottom plate (4, 4') providing a pair of plates ( 6, 6'), the opposite plate (6, 6') comprises a hole (8), providing a pair of center plate portions (14, 14'), providing a bottom plate and a counter plate (6, 6') The elastic material (2) between the two provides a separating mechanism (10) adapted to separate at least a portion of the elastic material (2), affecting a portion (22) of an elastic material (2) to protrude through the hole (8), along a first direction adjusts a distance between the opposing center plate portion (14, 14') and at least one of the bottom plate (4, 4') and the opposing plate (6, 6') to avoid elastic material ( 2) One of the portions protrudes through the hole (8), affecting a rotational movement between the elastic material (2) and the separating mechanism (10), so that the protruding elastic material The system is separated from the non-protruding elastic material.

We should note that the steps of this method are not necessarily listed in the order in which they are performed. In the above method, for example, the skilled person will readily understand that the step of affecting one portion of the elastic material protruding through the aperture does not need to be adjusted between the opposing center plate portion and at least one of the bottom plate and the opposing plate. Before the step of distance, to avoid or hinder the protrusion of a section of elastic material. Rather, it is also possible, for example, to perform these steps simultaneously, ie to adjust both distances simultaneously. Moreover, the second listed step may also be used to adjust the opposing center plate section before the first listed step, that is, before the facing plate is brought to the bottom plate and a portion of the elastic material is affected to protrude through the hole. To compress the inner side of an elastic material.

M2. A method for performing the mode M1 according to the method, wherein the step of projecting the portion (22) of the elastic material (2) protruding through the hole comprises: adjusting one on the bottom plate (4, 4') and the opposite plate (6, 6' The distance between them is such that a portion (22) of an elastic material (2) protrudes through the hole (8).

M3. A method of performing any of the aspects according to the foregoing method, wherein the rotational movement is on the one hand a separation mechanism (10) and on the other hand an elastic material (2), a bottom plate (4, 4'), an opposite plate ( 6, 6') and the opposite center plate portion (14, 14').

M4. The method of any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the opposing center plate portion (14, 14') is rotationally fixed to at least the bottom plate (4, 4') and the opposing plate (6, 6') One.

M5. A method of performing any of the aspects according to the foregoing method, wherein the rotational movement between the elastic material (2) and the separating mechanism (10) and a linear movement between the separating mechanism and the remaining elements affect the elasticity The protruding portion (22) of the material (2) is at least partially separated from the remaining elastic material (2).

M6. A method of performing any of the aspects according to the aforementioned method, wherein the rotational movement between the elastic material (2) and the separating mechanism (10) affects the protruding portion (22) of the elastic material (2) and the remaining elastic material (2) The separation is completely separated, and wherein the separated elastic material (2) is preferably substantially donut-shaped or annular.

M7. A method of performing any of the aspects according to the aforementioned method, wherein the separating mechanism (10) separates the elastic material (2) along a separating plane (12).

M8. The method of any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the opposing center plate portion (14, 14') includes a first major surface (142) and a side facing the bottom plate (4, 4') a second major surface (144) opposite in direction, and wherein the opposing plate (6, 6') includes a first surface (62), preferably facing substantially the second major surface (144) and a second The surface (64) is oriented in the same direction, preferably facing substantially the same direction as the first major surface (142).

M9. The method for implementing the modes M7 and M8 according to the method further comprises the steps of: positioning the first main surface (142) and the opposite plate (6, 6') of the center plate portion (14, 14') on the separation plane. On the same side of (12, 12'); simultaneously positioning the second major surface (144) of the center plate portion (14, 14') in the separation plane (12, 12'); and fixing this position.

M10. The method for implementing the modes M7 and M8 according to the method further comprises the steps of: first main surface (142) and second main surface (144) of the central plate portion (14, 14') and the opposite plate (6) , 6') positioned on the same side of the separation plane (12, 12'); and fixed this position.

M11. A method of performing any one of the modes M8 to M10 according to the method, wherein the first major surface (142) of the center plate portion (14, 14') is in the separation plane (12, 12') and the center plate portion ( The distance between the first major surface (142) of 14, 14') is greater than the distance between the separation plane (12, 12') and the second major surface (64) of the opposing plate (6, 6') This way is on the same side of the separating plane (12, 12') as the opposing plates (6, 6').

M12. A method for performing any of the aspects according to the foregoing method, further comprising: changing a distance between the separating mechanism (10) and the elastic material (2), preferably perpendicular to the adjusting at the opposite center plate The direction of the direction of the distance between the portion (14, 14') and the bottom plate (4, 4') and at least one of the opposing plates (6, 6'), and in particular to the extent of: In a view along the first direction, the separating mechanism (10) can be placed on or flush with at least a portion of the opposing center plate portion (14, 14'), and most particularly to the extent of: The mechanism (10) almost becomes in contact with a pair of support members (e.g., a mandrel (30)).

M13. A method of performing any of the aspects according to the foregoing method, wherein between the opposing center plate section (14, 14') and the bottom plate (4, 4') and the opposing plate (6, 6') The distance is adjusted.

M14. A method of performing any of the aspects according to the foregoing method, further comprising the step of fixing the opposing center plate portion (14, 14') to the bottom plate (4, 4') by means of screws or bolts.

M15. The method of any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the bottom plate (4, 4') and the opposing plate (6, 6') are rotationally fixed, and the separating mechanism (10) is associated with the bottom plate (4, 4') Rotate or rotate with the opposite plate (6, 6').

M16. A method of performing any of the aspects according to the foregoing method, wherein the separating mechanism (10) is rotationally fixed, and the bottom plate (4, 4') and the opposing plate (6, 6') are parallel to the first The rotation axis of one direction rotates or rotates.

M17. A method of performing any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the bottom plate (4, 4') and the opposing plate (6, 6') are rotated to rotate about a rotational axis parallel to the first direction, and the separating mechanism (10) Rotate or turn in the opposite direction.

M18. A method of performing any of the aspects according to the foregoing method, wherein the opposing center plate portion (14, 14') is rotated in the same manner as the bottom plate (4, 4') and the opposing plate (6, 6').

M19. A method of performing any of the aspects according to the foregoing method, wherein a rotational axis is horizontally configured.

M20. A method of performing any one of the modes M1 to M18 according to the method, wherein a rotational axis is vertically arranged.

M21. A method of performing any one of the modes M1 to M18 according to the method, wherein an axis of rotation is configured to be inclined with respect to vertical.

M22. A method of performing any of the aspects according to the foregoing method, further comprising the step of providing a spacer (34) between the bottom plate (4, 4') and the opposing plate (6, 6'), the spacer ( 34) Defining a minimum distance between the bottom plate (4, 4') and the opposing plate (6, 6').

M23. A method of performing any of the aspects according to the foregoing method, wherein the method is an automated protruding cutting method.

M24. A method of performing any of the aspects according to the foregoing method, wherein the method is a deformation cut, in particular a sharp cut.

M25. A method of performing any of the aspects according to the foregoing method, wherein the method is suitable for automated cutting.

M26. Preferably, the method according to any one of the preceding embodiments, comprising: providing a base member, providing a pair of central plate portions (14, 14'), providing a suitable fit for tightly nesting holes The pre-cut elastic material (2) provides a separating mechanism (10) adapted to separate at least a portion of the elastic material (2), the elastic material (2) being placed in the cavity, adjusted along a first direction Opposite the distance between the center plate portion (14, 14') and the base member to prevent a portion of the elastic material (2) from protruding through the opening, affecting a relationship between the elastic material (2) and the separating mechanism (10) The rotation is moved to separate the protruding elastic material from the non-protruding elastic material.

M27. The method according to embodiment M26, wherein the base member is formed by being fixedly mounted to one of the bottom plates (4, 4') and the pair of plates (6, 6'), or wherein the base member is It is a single monolithic base member containing a cavity having an opening.

Here, it should be understood that the implementation mode M26 or M27 can be considered as a stand-alone implementation with any one of the implementation modes M1 to M25 directly and/or individually attached.

M28. A method of implementing a mode M26 or M27, further comprising changing a distance between the separating mechanism (10) and the opposing center plate portion (14, 14'), in particular perpendicular to the first direction and/or parallel In the direction of the first surface (62) of the opposing plate (6, 6'), it is used to influence the separation of the elastic material.

M29. A method according to any one of the embodiments M26 to M29, which has any of the characteristics according to the embodiment M1 to M25.

M30. The use of the apparatus according to any one of the preceding apparatus embodiments, or the method according to any one of the preceding methods of the embodiment, the apparatus and the method for forming a mask, in particular a medical mask A component or portion, wherein the components or portions of the mask preferably comprise a foam cushion for the mask, a forehead support, and a cheek support.

A1. An apparatus for performing any of the aspects according to the foregoing method, preferably in accordance with one of the foregoing apparatus implementations, for performing a method of protruding cutting.

101. Apparatus for cutting an elastic material (2), the apparatus comprising: a bottom plate (4, 4', 1144, 1144'), a pair of center plate portions (14, 14', 1114, 1114'), and a separating mechanism (10) adapted to separate at least a portion of the elastic material (2) in use, wherein the bottom plate (4, 4', 1144, 1144') and the opposing center plate portion (14, 14', 1114, 1114' At least one of the two can be moved relative to the other to change the distance therebetween, and can compress the elastic material (2) and define a protruding portion (22) of the elastic material (2), on the one hand, the separating mechanism (10) On the other hand, at least one of the bottom plate (4, 4') and the opposing center plate portion (14, 14') is rotatable; and the device is configured to change a separation mechanism (10) and pair The distance between the center plate portions (14, 14', 1114, 1114') to affect the cutting of the protruding portion (22).

102. Apparatus for implementing a mode 101 comprising a pair of plates (6, 6', 1146) including a hole (8, 8') configured to receive a counter center plate portion (14) , 14'), wherein at least one of the bottom plate (4, 4'), the opposing plate (6, 6') and the opposing center plate portion (14, 14') is movable relative to the other to change The distance, on the one hand, the separation mechanism (10) and on the other hand, the bottom plate (4, 4'), the opposite plate (6, 6') and the opposite center plate portion (14, 14') are at least one of rotatable.

103. Apparatus for implementing a mode 102, wherein: at least one of the bottom plate (4, 4'), the opposing plate (6, 6') and the opposing center plate portion (14, 14') are oriented in a first direction The apparatus is configured to be perpendicular to the first direction and/or parallel to the pair of plates (6, 6') relative to the other movements to vary the distance therebetween and to affect the cutting of the elastic material. The direction of the first surface (62) changes the distance between the separating mechanism (10) and the opposing center plate portion (14, 14').

104. Apparatus according to any one of embodiments 102 and 103, wherein the opposing central plate portion (14, 14') comprises a first major surface (142) facing the bottom plate (4, 4') and a facing opposite The second major surface (144) of the direction and/or the opposing plate (6, 6') includes a first surface (62) and a second surface (64), and wherein in operation, the apparatus is adapted Positioning the opposing center plate portion (14, 14') such that the first major surface (142) and the second major surface (144) and the opposing plate (6, 6') are in a separate plane (12, 12') On the same side.

105. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding embodiments 102 to 104, wherein each of the opposing plate (6, 6') and the opposing central plate portion (14, 14') is adapted to be relative to the base plate (4) , 4') Move to change the distance between them.

106. Apparatus according to any of the preceding embodiments 102 to 105, wherein the bottom plate (4, 4'), the opposing plate (6, 6') and the opposing center plate portion (14, 14') are adapted to be wound around A rotation axis parallel to the first direction is rotated in one direction, and wherein the separation mechanism (10) is stationary.

107. Apparatus according to any of the preceding embodiments 102 to 106, further comprising a spacer adapted to be interposed between the bottom plate (4, 4') and the opposing plate (6, 6') (34) ) for defining a minimum distance between the bottom plate (4, 4') and the opposing plate (6, 6').

108. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding embodiments 102 to 107, wherein the opposing central plate portion (14, 14') comprises a support member, preferably a mandrel (30) from its second surface (144) Extending, and wherein the opposing plates (6, 6') and/or the bottom plates (4, 4') comprise a support member that extends in opposite directions to the opposing center plate portion support members.

109. Apparatus according to any of the preceding embodiments 101 to 108, wherein the support members (30) of the pair of central plate portions (14, 14') do not extend through the resilient material.

The apparatus according to any one of the preceding embodiments 102 to 109, wherein the holes (8, 8') of the opposite plate are a first hole (8, 8'); the opposite plate (6, 6') The base plate (8, 8') is movable relative to the base plate (8, 8') and is movable relative to the base plate (8, 8') and is configured to be in the first hole (8, 8') Within the extension, the 俾 can be in the outer periphery of the pair of center plate parts (14, 14') with a first A second hole is formed between the inner periphery of the hole (8, 8'); at least two of the bottom plate (4, 4'), the opposite plate (6, 6') and the opposite center plate portion (14, 14') Is configured and/or adapted to receive the resilient material therebetween and causes one of the elastic materials to partially protrude through the second aperture; and on the one hand the separation mechanism (10) and on the other hand the bottom plate (4, 4'), At least one of the opposing plate (6, 6') and the opposing center plate portion (14, 14') is configured to be movable relative to the other for bringing the separation mechanism toward the elastic material and affecting the separation of the elastic material .

The apparatus of any one of the preceding embodiments 101 to 110, wherein the bottom plate (4, 4') and the opposite plate (6, 6') are fixedly attached to each other and/or together define a cavity containing A base member having an opening configured to receive a pre-cut elastomeric material.

112. The device of any of the preceding embodiments 101 to 111, wherein the device is adapted to form a mask cushion, a forehead support portion and/or a cheek support portion for a patient interface.

113. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding embodiments 101 to 112 wherein the opposing central plate portion (14, 14') has a generally triangular shape with rounded corners when viewed from a top view of the first direction. shape.

114. A method of cutting an elastic material (2), preferably having an apparatus according to any one of the preceding embodiments 101 to 113, the method comprising the steps of: providing a bottom plate (4, 4'), providing a The opposite plate (6, 6'), the opposite plate (6, 6') comprises a hole (8) providing a pair of center plate portions (14, 14'), one for the bottom plate and the opposite plate (6) , the elastic material (2) between 6'), providing a separating mechanism (10) adapted to separate at least a portion of the elastic material (2), adjusting a portion in the opposite direction along a first direction (14, 14) ') and the distance between the bottom plate (4, 4') and at least one of the opposing plates (6, 6') such that a portion (22) of an elastic material (2) protrudes through the hole (8), affecting a rotational movement between the elastic material (2) and the separating mechanism (10), and The distance between the separating mechanism (10) and the opposing center plate portion (14, 14') is varied to affect the cutting of the protruding portion (22).

115. The method according to embodiment 114, wherein the rotational movement is on the one hand a separation mechanism (10) and on the other hand an elastic material (2), a bottom plate (4, 4'), an opposite plate (6, 6' ) and between the opposing center plate portions (14, 14').

116. A method according to any one of embodiments 114 and 115, wherein the change in distance between the separating mechanism (10) and the opposing center plate portion (14, 14') is directed in a direction perpendicular to the first direction The effect, and in particular to the extent that the separating mechanism (10) can rest above at least a portion of the opposing center plate portion (14, 14') in a view along the first direction.

117. The method of any one of aspects 114 to 116, wherein the bottom plate (4, 4') and the opposing plate (6, 6') are fixedly attached to each other to form a base member having an opening. (1144'), the method comprising: providing a base member, providing a pair of center plate portions (14, 14', 1114, 1114'), providing a pre-cut elastic material suitable for tightly nesting the base member (2) a separation mechanism (10) adapted to separate at least a portion of the elastic material (2), the elastic material (2) being placed in the base member along a first direction, such that one of the elastic materials partially protrudes through the opening Adjusting the distance between the opposing center plate portion and the base member to prevent a portion of the protruding elastic material (2) from protruding through the opening, affecting a rotational movement between the elastic material (2) and the separating mechanism (10) And changing the distance between the separating mechanism (10) and the opposing center plate portion (14, 14'), in particular towards a direction perpendicular to the first direction and/or parallel to the opposite plate (6, 6') The direction of the first surface (62) is used to influence the separation of the protruding elastic material from the non-protruding elastic material.

118. The method of embodiment 117, wherein the base member is a monolithic base member.

119. Use of the apparatus according to any one of the implementation modes 101 to 113 or according to an implementation form The use of the method of any one of 114 to 118, the apparatus and the method for forming a cover, in particular a plurality of parts or portions of a medical mask, wherein the components or portions of the mask preferably comprise a cover for the mask Bubble cushion, forehead support and cheek support.

120. Apparatus for cutting an elastic material (2), the apparatus comprising: a bottom plate (4, 4'), a pair of center plate portions (14, 14'), a pair of plates (6, 6'), A hole (8, 8') is included, configured to accommodate the opposing center plate portion (14, 14'), and a separating mechanism (10) adapted to separate at least a portion of the elastic material (2) in use , wherein at least one of the bottom plate (4, 4'), the opposite plate (6, 6') and the opposite center plate portion (14, 14') is movable relative to the other to change a distance therebetween, and compressed An elastic material interposed therebetween and defining a protruding portion (22) of an elastic material (2), on the one hand, a separating mechanism (10) and on the other hand a bottom plate (4, 4'), an opposite plate (6, 6' And at least one of the opposing center plate portions (14, 14') may be associated with other rotations; and the device is configured to change a portion of the separation mechanism (10) and the opposing center plate (14, 14) The distance between ') is used to influence the cutting of the protruding portion (22).

A, A', A1, A2, A4‧‧‧ arrows

A3‧‧‧ Driving force

R‧‧‧round arrow

2‧‧‧Foam/foam material/elastic material

4‧‧‧floor/opposite center plate section

4"‧‧‧ bottom plate

6‧‧‧First board/first surface/opposite/opposite part

8‧‧‧ hole/opening

10‧‧‧Separation device / cutting tool / separation mechanism / cutting device

12‧‧‧Separation plane/cutting plane

12'‧‧‧Separation plane/surface

14‧‧‧ center plate / center plate section / central section panel / second panel / opposite center panel section / second opposite panel / opposite center panel section

16"‧‧‧ template

18‧‧‧mouth/concave/mandrel/gap

22‧‧‧cut/part/foam section

30‧‧‧ mandrel

32‧‧‧fasteners

33‧‧‧Support

34‧‧‧Parts/Baffle

62‧‧‧First board surface/first surface

142‧‧‧ first major surface

144‧‧‧Second major/second surface

200‧‧‧Foam section/foam part

202‧‧‧Cutting section/foam section

203‧‧‧Opening

1114‧‧‧ opposite center plate section

1118‧‧‧ openings

1144‧‧‧floor

1144'‧‧‧ box

1146‧‧‧Top peripheral section

1148‧‧‧ side wall

1150‧‧‧Base

The disclosed technology will be more fully understood from the following detailed description, which is provided by way of example only, and not by way of limitation. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a compression cutting device according to one of the prior art; FIG. 4a is a device for protruding cutting according to an embodiment of the disclosed technology. A schematic perspective view; Figure 4b is a top view of the configuration of Figure 4a; 5a-c are schematic cross-sectional views of an apparatus for protruding cutting in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosed technology, illustrating different configurations of such apparatus; FIGS. 6a-e are a technique in accordance with the disclosed technology A schematic cross-sectional view of an apparatus for protruding cutting of an embodiment to illustrate different configurations of the apparatus; FIGS. 7a-7c are a first non-planar cutting embodiment for protruding cutting in accordance with one of the disclosed techniques. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 8a-b is a schematic cross-sectional view of a device for protruding cutting according to a second non-planar cutting embodiment of the disclosed technology; FIG. 9 is a technique according to the disclosed technology. A schematic cross-sectional view of a device for protruding cutting of a still further embodiment; and FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an apparatus for protruding cutting in accordance with yet another embodiment of the disclosed technology.

Reference is now made to embodiments in accordance with the disclosed improved techniques.

Referring to Figures 4a and 4b, one embodiment of the disclosed technology provides a bottom plate 4 and a counter plate 6 having a hole 8. More particularly, Figures 4a and 4b illustrate various perspective and plan views of one embodiment of the disclosed technology, while Figures 5a-5c illustrate cross-sectional views or embodiments of the technology. As shown in Figure 4a, the bottom plate 4 can be coupled to the opposing plate 6 by fasteners 32. In a simple embodiment, the fastener 32 can include a nut and a bolt. However, in still further configurations, the fasteners can be hydraulic, pneumatic or mechanical. The fasteners can be used to manually or automatically adjust the compression of an elastic material 2 (e.g., a foam) disposed between the bottom plate 4 and the opposing plate 6. An elastic material 2 (for example, a piece of foam) may be placed between the bottom plate 4 and the opposite plate 6. The elastic material may comprise various materials such as open or closed cell foams, rubber, gels, felt textiles. One criterion is that the material can be temporarily deformed, cut or separated under pressure and then released for recovery. As indicated by the double-sided arrow A3 in FIG. 5a and the arrow A4 in FIG. 5b, the bottom plate 4 and the opposite direction The distance between the plates 6 can be varied and adjusted to complete the compression of the elastic material 2.

After the elastic material 2 (for example, a foam) is placed between the bottom plate 4 and the opposite plate 6, the distance between the two plates can be reduced. This can be achieved by a standard mechanical or pneumatic mechanism that drives the force A3. Thus, the material 2 is compressed, and a portion 22 of a foam extends through the opening 8 and protrudes beyond the surface of the opposing plate 6. The opposing center plate portion 14 can be supported on a mandrel 30 and includes a first major surface facing the foam 2, the bottom plate 4 and/or the opposing plate 6, and a facing second main body facing away from there surface. The mandrel 30 preferably extends from opposite the second major surface to away from the foam 2, the bottom plate 4 and/or the opposing plate 6. Other support is possible. The bottom plate 4 can be placed on a mandrel 18 or other support device.

In the present embodiment, the mandrel 30 supporting the opposing center plate portion 14 is disposed on the side of the center plate portion 14 opposed to the side facing the bottom plate 4. As indicated by arrow A1 in Figures 4a, 4b and 5a and as indicated by arrow A in Figure 5b, the opposing central plate portion 14 and mandrel 30 may have a non-fixed or varying distance from the base plate 4. . As shown in Fig. 5b, this may allow the opposing center plate portion 14 to contact the foam 2 and prevent a portion of the foam 2 from protruding through the opening or hole 8.

The opposing central plate portion 4 is shaped such that the opposing central plate portion is preferably disposed in the aperture 8 of the opposing plate 6 without contact, and more preferably while allowing a gap to follow at least At least a major portion of the peripheral side of the opposing center plate portion 4 and the periphery of the hole 8 of the opposing plate 6 is established. This gap is preferably such that the elastic material 2 can extend through it.

The disclosed technology further provides a separation device or cutting tool 10. Such a separating device 10 can be realized as a blade, a knife, a saw, in particular a continuous saw, such as a band saw, a circular saw or a turkey cutting tool, or can be realized as a wire, in particular a hot wire. As indicated by arrow A2 in Figures 4a and 4b, the position of the separation device 10 relative to the rest of the apparatus can be varied. More particularly, the distance between the axis of the separating device 10 and a mandrel 30 and/or the axis of a mandrel 18 can be varied to effectively vary the distance between the separating device 10 and the opposing center plate portion 14 and The distance between the separation device 10 and the elastic material 2.

By varying this distance, the separating device 10 can cut into the protruding portion 22 of the elastic material or foam 2, as for example depicted in Figure 5c. Moreover, the apparatus is adapted to be at least one of a combination of the bottom plate 4, the opposing plate 6 and the opposing center plate portion 14 (and thus the elastic material 2 compressed therebetween) on the one hand, and on the other hand The separation devices 10 are allowed to rotate relative to each other. In the embodiment shown, this is achieved by the base mandrel 18 which is rotatable with the base plate 4, the foam 2 and the counterplate 6, while the separation means is not rotated. Further preferably, the second mandrel 30 supporting the opposing center plate portion 14 is also rotatable, preferably in synchronism with the bottom plate and the counter plate. This is indicated by the circular arrow R in Figures 4a, 4b and 5c.

However, instead of these components, the separation device 10 may also be a rotatable component. In such an embodiment, the base mandrel 18, the bottom plate 4, the foam 2, the opposing plate 6, the opposing center plate portion 14 and the second mandrel 30 supporting the opposing center plate portion 14 are rotatably secured. Or non-rotatable, and the separation device 10 is rotatable relative to these components.

However, in another embodiment, all of the previously mentioned components can be rotated with the separation device, which can be separate from the base plate 4, the opposing plate 6 and the opposing center plate portion 14, thereby being elastic material 2 and For example, rotate in the other direction. In such an embodiment, the separation device 10 and the components other than the separation device 10 are more particularly rotatable in the opposite direction. For example, the separation device 10 can be rotated in a clockwise direction while the remaining components can be rotated in a counterclockwise direction, or vice versa.

In other words, the separation device 10 and the remaining components can be rotated relative to one another. Thus, according to Fig. 5c, the separating device 10 can cut into the protruding portion 22 of an elastic material 2, and due to the relative rotational movement of the protruding portion 22 and the separating device 10, all of it is cut along the protruding annular portion 22, thereby finally causing the protruding portion 22 Separate or cut off from the remaining elastic material 2. The separation mechanism can move closely along the upper surface of the opposing plate or at some distance above the surface. In some cases, the distance above the surface can be varied, for example to form a protrusion on the surface of the cushion. With this configuration, the separating device 10 can cut and completely separate the convex portion 22 from the remaining foam without hindering the axis of the second mandrel 30. Separating device 10 is related to another The relative rotation of a component can be a full rotation of 360°. However, it is also possible that this rotation is larger (i.e., above 360°) to allow for a safer separation of the cutting section 202 from one of the remaining elastic materials 2. Moreover, depending on the particular elastomeric design, the rotation may also remain incomplete (i.e., less than 360° and preferably less than 300°) to leave the protruding portion 22 of the elastic material 2 that is attached to the remaining elastomeric material. At least part.

In other words, the disclosed technology typically utilizes a configuration of two compression mechanisms and provides an improved, easily maneuverable and operational manufacturing system by allowing or providing a circular cutting path that is separated (e.g., cut) about the axis of the compression mechanism.

In one embodiment of the present technology, one of the samples of one of the elastic materials 2 (e.g., soft foam) is compressed at its periphery by a mechanism. The mechanism comprises and preferably consists of a bottom plate 4 and a first or opposite plate 6, the uncompressed body of the foam 2 being placed on the bottom plate 4, and the first or opposite plate 6 being operated The middle system is placed above the foam 2 and pressed toward the bottom plate 4. The first or opposing plate 6 includes a hole 8 through which the uncompressed portion of the foam 2 can extend, for example to protrude above the first plate surface 62. A second mechanism is present in the illustrated figure in the form of a second plate or opposed central plate section 14, acting on the body of the foam 2 from above for compression to otherwise protrude from the first plate A portion 22 of a foam 2 above the level 6 is such that the upper portion of the second panel 14 is horizontally attached to a second surface of the first panel 6 or below the cutting level. This second mechanism is preferably driven by a spindle 30. Once the first and second opposing plates 6 and 14 are in the operating position, both the periphery of the foam 2 and a central portion are depressed below the cutting level of the first plate 6, and by one The middle portion of the foam 2 forms a ring which protrudes above the first plate 6 and the second plate 14. A separating device 10 (e.g., a cutting tool or knife) is then introduced across the foam 2 whereby one end cuts it inwardly until it reaches the mandrel 30. These plates having the foam 2 are rotated to complete the cutting process of the entire body of the foam 2 to produce a desired shape. Preferably, the upper mandrel 30 is likewise rotated - that is, it is rotated synchronously. The rotation can be slow and only extends one or two cycles. Alternatively, the separation device, the remaining components or the separation device and the remaining components can be used throughout the cutting process. The period lasts for many cycles and rotates at high speed. A minimum difference can be produced between the rotational speed of the base plate 4 and the first opposing plate 6, and/or the speed of the spindle of the second opposing plate 14. This difference will result in a shear or twist in the elastomeric material. This will then change the compressed shape, which will thus result in a slightly different cut shape. Furthermore, any of the plates may have a slightly different rotational speed relative to each other. In one example, the bottom plate can be rotated at 1 rpm, the counter plate is rotated at 1.1 rpm, and the center counter plate is rotated at 1.2 rpm. During one rotation, the upper end of the elastomeric material will be rotated 0.1 or 36 degrees relative to the bottom. The center counter plate will rotate 0.2 or 72 degrees. If the holes formed between the opposing plates are substantially circular (a donut), this will only affect the cross-sectional profile of the cutting spacer. However, if the hole is not circular, the size of the hole will also change during rotation, which will affect the shape of the opening in this portion.

In the above configuration, the elastic material 2 (e.g., foam) is compressed between a bottom plate 4 and two or more top plates 6, 14. The outer top plate (first plate) 6 is pulled down from below. Alternative examples in which the panels are pressed from above are also conceivable as long as they do not interfere with the upper surface of the panel 6 as a cutting plane 12 (to be discussed later in Figure 6). The inner top plate (the second plate or the opposing center plate portion) 14 is pushed from above by using a mandrel. The two top plates 6, 14 leave a gap therebetween which establishes a preferably closed or annular aperture through which a portion of the resilient material 2, such as a foam, projects. These plates or a separating device 10 (e.g., a knife) rotates about an axis and cuts the protruding foam in a circular motion. This method can also make an open "horsehoe" shape.

The circular path around the axis of the compression mechanism or mandrel 30 and avoiding obstructing the axis of the compression mechanism or mandrel 30 can be achieved by rotational movement of the device, as further illustrated herein, on the one hand The bottom plate 4, 4' is included, the opposing plates 6, 6' and the opposing center plate portions 14, 14' and/or on the other hand comprise a separating mechanism 10. This movement does not need to be mathematically circular or rotated about a fixed axis. Conversely, where there is no obstruction to the positioning or handling portion (e.g., mandrel 30), the combination comprising the movement of the rotation allows the separation mechanism to be cut along the protruding material.

Due to the action of the second plate 14, an opening or a hole is constructed in the body of the foam 2. Different first and/or second plate shapes will allow different convex hole shapes to be constructed.

Also, in Figures 5a, 5b and 5c, a spacer or baffle 34 is also depicted. Such spacers or baffles 34 can be provided in different thicknesses to achieve and pre-set varying degrees of foam compression. The spacers 34 may in particular be rectangular, elliptical or other similar rings. Further, the spacer 34 is preferably made of a rigid material such as metal. The spacer 34 is adapted to determine to what extent the elastic material 2 can be compressed between the bottom plate 4, 4' and the opposing plates 6, 6'. In other words, the spacer 34 defines a minimum distance between the bottom plate 4, 4' and the opposing plates 6, 6'. The spacers 34 may be flush with the bottom plates 4, 4' and/or the opposing plates 6, 6'. In other words, the spacer 34 may have substantially the same outer diameter as at least one of the bottom plate 4, 4' and the opposing plates 6, 6'. Further, the bottom plates 4', 4' may have the same outer diameter as the opposing plates 6, 6', that is, they may be flush with them. Again, depending on the desired compression, it may be preferred to provide a plurality of spacers 34 that may be selected by the skilled person. Other spacer mechanisms or obstructions may be used, such as a cylinder around the support 33 that limits the distance between the two plates. In addition, the mechanism or drive A3 that provides compression force may also have its own method to limit the travel of one or more plates, thus limiting the amount of compression of the elastomeric material.

As shown, for example, in Figures 5a through 5c, the opposing plate 6 can be coupled and/or moved relative to the base plate 4 by posts or supports 33. There may be 3, 4, 5 or more supports 33. The supports are preferably configured such that they do not pass or interfere with the material 2. More particularly, the fact that in a certain view, the material 22 can still overlap the support 33 in a certain view, they can still be configured to be isolated from the material 2, as in Figure 5b, as can be clearly understood from the view according to Figure 5a. And seen in 5c. The support 33 can be automatically driven by, for example, a mechanical screw or hydraulic cylinder for configuring the proper compression and/or movement of these components, as mentioned above.

A further configuration of the cutting process is discussed in connection with Figures 6a-e. Similar to some other figures, these figures also briefly illustrate a particular section of the apparatus of the present invention. For example, for the sake of brevity, the bottom plate 4 and the support 33 have been omitted in Figures 6a-e. The opposing center plate portion 14 includes two major surfaces. The first major surface 142 faces the direction of the bottom plate 4 and is adapted to Contact with the elastic material 2. The second surface 144 faces in the opposite direction and is generally supported by the mandrel 30. However, supports from other agencies are also possible. According to Fig. 6a, the cutting or separating plane 12 on which the separating device 10 operates, for example, cuts the protruding portion 22 of the elastic material 2, generally "above the first surface 62 of the opposing plate 6" or in the opposite direction The first surface 62 of the panel 6 is at the same level. Preferably, it is provided by the first surface 6 of the opposing plate. However, with regard to the term "above", we should understand that this term is merely an illustration to provide a clear and simple understanding of each picture. This term should not be construed as limiting the disclosed technology to certain configurations with respect to the direction of gravity. Even though the use of the phrase "above" can provide an easier and more intuitive understanding of each of the figures, the skilled person will also understand the disclosed technology and is not limited by the apparatus of the present invention in space. One of the configurations. For example, the apparatus of the present invention can be rotated at an angle of 90[deg.] (or 180[deg.], etc.) such that the cutting plane 12 is not configured horizontally, but instead is configured vertically. Moreover, it is also possible to provide a diagram of the "inverted" of the apparatus of the invention. That is, the bottom plate 4 can be disposed "on the opposite side plate 6". Again, the skilled person will understand that the last paragraph applies not only to the term "above" but also to any such term, such as "under", if not stated in detail, or if not It is mainly stated clearly that this term is meant to be meant in a limited way.

Figures 6a and 6b show an intermediate configuration in which the separation plane 12 is disposed between the major surfaces 142 and 144 of the opposing center plate portion 14 or at the same location as the second major surface 144 of the opposing center plate portion 14. On the level. While it is possible to cut the elastomeric material in these configurations, special measures are needed to ensure a flat interaction between the separation device 10 and the surrounding wall surface of the opposing center plate 14.

In the preferred embodiment illustrated in Figures 6c and 6d and 6e, the separation plane 12 extends "over the second major surface 144 of the opposing center plate portion 14". The amount by which the two surfaces are separable from each other can be varied between the smallest (shown in Figure 6c), the middle (shown in Figure 6d), and the actual one (shown in Figure 6e). In a more general term, in these configurations, the first surface 62 of the opposing plate 6 and the second major surface 144 of the opposing center plate portion 14 are disposed on the same side of the cutting or separating plane 62. Such an embodiment is particularly likely to be preferred because there is no separation device 10 (more In particular, where, for example, the blade thereof is at risk of contacting the second major surface 144 of the center plate portion 14, it allows for a particularly simple separation process.

We should be aware that the opposing plate 6 does not need to be planar. Instead, it can have other shapes as well. For example, it can have the shape of a generally frustoconical shape, as shown in Figures 7a-7c. In this configuration, the opposing center plate portion 14' is preferably conical. In the present embodiment illustrated in Figures 7a-7c, the bottom plate 4 is depicted as being generally planar. If the elastic material 2 is compressed in this configuration, this can result in different degrees of compression due to the varying distance between the bottom plate 4 and the opposing plate 6'. In general, in accordance with certain embodiments of the disclosed technology, one of the bottom plates 4, 4' and the opposing plates 6, 6' may be planar while the other may not be planar.

In Figures 8a and 8b, an embodiment shows that both the bottom plate 4' and the opposing plate 6' are non-planar, and in a particular embodiment, both are conical. Moreover, it is preferred that the opposing center plate portion 14' is also conical with a contour that matches the contour of the opposing plate 6'. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate this embodiment, and in the present embodiment discussed in connection with Figures 7a-7c, the opposing center plate portion 14' may also be planar.

Similar to the embodiment shown in Figures 7a-7c, the embodiment of Figures 8a and 8b can define a varying distance between the bottom plate 4' and the opposing plate 6' depending on the radial distance and/or direction. This changes the compression of the elastic material (foam 2), thus changing the thickness and shape of the cutoff 22 and the remaining foam material 2.

All of the embodiments illustrated in Figures 7a-8b, the separation or cutting plane 12' will be discussed in association with Figure 7b. At this point, there appears to be a left-hand side separation plane 12' and a right-hand side separation plane 12'. When the remaining components are rotated or swiveled in relation to the separating device 10, the two separating planes 12' can be aligned by rotational symmetry. However, if the cutting blade properly follows the change in height of the surface 12' when the mechanism is rotated, the two separation planes 12' need not be rotationally symmetric. That is, if the cutting device 10 is controllably moved up and down and in and out of the shape formed by the surface 12'.

The technology also covers all further features that are individually shown in the figures, although These features cannot be explained in the previous instructions. The disclosed technology encompasses further embodiments having any combination of features from the various embodiments described above. For example, although the bottom plate 4, the opposing plate 6 and the opposing center plate 14 are shown in a specific shape, other forms and configurations are also possible. For example, the base plate and the opposing plate 6 may not be circular, but square or rectangular. Likewise, depending on the shape to be cut, the opposing center panel 14 may not be triangular, but have other shapes, such as square or rectangular. The reference signs in the claims are only provided as a clarifying example and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claimed invention in any way.

In another example, schematically shown in FIG. 9, the system can include only a base plate 1144 and a pair of center plate portions 1114. In this configuration, the elastomeric material is placed on the bottom plate, and at least one of the bottom plate and the opposing center plate portion is moved toward the other until the desired foam compression and associated protrusion are achieved (at the opposite center) Up to the upper surface of the plate portion 1114). The two plates are then rotated and the tool train is in contact with the projecting foam for influencing the cutting along a plane on or above the upper surface of the opposing center plate portion. The compression in this example will only be achieved in the central portion of the foam because there is no opposing segment to press the surrounding section of the foam. In the general case of using a square thick plate of a foam, this configuration will result in a foam cut with a straight outer edge on a cross-sectional profile. However, the cross-sectional contour edges of other shapes can be achieved by pre-forming the edges of the initial foam slab.

The apparatus and method described in the previous examples include several configurations in which the distance between the base plate and the opposing plate is reduced to compress the periphery of the foam and affect its projections through a central opening. Alternatively, the base plate and the opposing plate may be mounted together in a single base member. In one embodiment, the base member can be a monolithic member, such as the cartridge 1144' shown in FIG. The top panel of the box contains a portion 1146 extending over the periphery of the cavity of the cartridge, similar to the manner in which the opposing portion 6 is made in Figures 5a and 5b. An insertion opening 1118, defined by portion 1146, allows a pre-cut elastic (e.g., foam) material to be placed on the bottom of the interior of the casing, as shown in FIG. When the foaming system is in its normal expanded configuration, the height of the box is less than that of the foam thickness. However, the height of the box and the thickness of the foam are selected such that when the foam is inserted into the cartridge 1144', its periphery is depressed while it is in the peripheral region below the peripheral tip portion 1146. The thickness is defined by the height of the cartridge 1144'. Thus, the base 1150 of the cartridge corresponds to the bottom panel 4 of Figures 4a, 4b and 5, and the peripheral tip portion 1146 of the cartridge corresponds to the opposing panel 6 of Figures 4a, 4b and 5. This insertion opening portion 1118 allows the foam to be manually or otherwise inserted into the space between the two. In another example (not shown), the foam insertion opening portion is not formed in the tip end portion, as shown in Fig. 10, but in a side wall of a case.

The opening 1118 in Fig. 10 is used to insert the foam, and can also be used to push the central portion plate 14 into the body of the foam. Since the height of the case is smaller than the thickness of the foam, the foam within the central opening 1118 will protrude above the top end of the case. Any one of the box 1144' or the opposing center plate portion 1114 can then be moved to urge a region of the resilient material that is engaged by the opposing center plate portion 1114 to be compressed into the cavity to achieve a rough Similar to the state shown in FIG. Rotation and cutting are then performed as described above, i.e., the single stone base member (supported by a support member (e.g., mandrel 18)) and the opposing center plate portion 1114' (supported by the mandrel 30) are Rotate to affect the rotation of the material that protrudes elastic (eg, foam). The separation mechanism then contacts the protruding elastic material to affect the cutting.

In still further variations, the cartridge 1144' does not include a tip peripheral portion 1146 and may only include the substrate 1150 and sidewalls 1148. This configuration would be equivalent to removing the opposing plates, thereby reducing the configuration to only the bottom plate 4 and the opposing center plate portion 14 shown in FIG.

As is apparent from the above description, since the bottom plate and the opposing plate in the above example are fixed to each other within a single base member, only relative movement will be between this base member and the central portion plate. In one example, this relative movement involves moving the central portion of the panel toward the base member (including the base plate and the opposing plate).

In another example, the opposing plate and the opposing central plate can be fixed (as long as the vertical movement is focused) and only the bottom plate can be moved in a vertical direction. In this configuration, the elastic material is placed on the bottom plate, and the bottom plate is moved toward the opposite plate and the opposite center plate portion until reaching the The required foam is compressed and protruded. The three plates are then rotated and the blade is brought into contact with the protruding foam to affect the cutting.

Again, although the above description describes the separation (or cutting) mechanism 10 as part of the overall system, this is not necessarily the case. In another example, the system can include only the base plate, the opposing plate, and the central opposing plate portion. The elastic material can be fixed between these elements and rotated. The system can also be configured to be moved, for example, in a linear manner toward a stationary cutting mechanism. It will be appreciated that this configuration will allow the use of an external cutting mechanism, such as a standard cutting blade that is secured via any support mechanism, since the cutting mechanism does not need to be rotated or moved in any way at all.

The disclosed technology also covers the proper terms, features, values, ranges, and the like, so that such terms, features, values, and ranges are associated with terms such as about, surrounding, substantially, substantially, essentially, at least, etc. Use (ie "about 3" should also cover exactly 3 or "substantially planar" should also cover exactly planar). The terms "one", "one", "first", "second", etc. do not exclude plural.

A1, A2‧‧‧ arrows

R‧‧‧round arrow

2‧‧‧Foam/foam material/elastic material

4‧‧‧floor/opposite center plate section

6‧‧‧First board/first surface/opposite/opposite part

8‧‧‧ hole/opening

10‧‧‧Separation device / cutting tool / separation mechanism / cutting device

14‧‧‧ center plate / center plate section / central section panel / second panel / opposite center panel section / second opposite panel / opposite center panel section

18‧‧‧mouth/concave/mandrel/gap

22‧‧‧cut/part/foam section

30‧‧‧ mandrel

32‧‧‧fasteners

Claims (20)

An apparatus for cutting an elastic material (2), the apparatus comprising: a bottom plate (4, 4', 1144, 1144'), a pair of center plate portions (14, 14', 1114, 1114'), and a a separating mechanism (10) adapted to separate at least a portion of the elastic material (2) in use, wherein the bottom plate (4, 4', 1144, 1144') and the opposing center plate portion (14, 14', 1114 At least one of 1114') is operable to change a distance therebetween relative to other movements, to compress the elastic material (2) and to define a protruding portion (22) of the elastic material (2), on the one hand The separating mechanism (10) and on the other hand is rotatable with at least one of the bottom plate (4, 4', 1144, 1144') and the opposing center plate portion (14, 14', 1114, 1114') And the device is configured to vary a distance between the separating mechanism (10) and the opposing center plate portion (14, 14', 1114, 1114') for influencing the protruding portion (22) Cutting. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus comprises a pair of plates (6, 6', 1146), the pair of plates (6, 6', 1146) comprising a hole (8, 8', 1118) Is configured to accommodate the opposing center plate portion (14, 14', 1114'), wherein the bottom plate (4, 4', 1144'), the opposite plate (6, 6', 1146) At least one of the opposing center plate portions (14, 14', 1114') is movable relative to the other to change a distance therebetween, on the one hand the separating mechanism (10) and on the other hand the bottom plate (4, 4', 1144'), at least one of the opposing plates (6, 6', 1146) and the opposing center plate portions (14, 14', 1114') are rotatable. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein: the bottom plate (4, 4', 1144'), the opposite plate (6, 6', 1146) and the opposite center plate portion (14, At least one of 14', 1114') is movable in a first direction relative to the other to change a distance therebetween, and to affect the cutting of the elastic material, the apparatus is configured to be perpendicular to the first Direction and/or direction parallel to one of the first surfaces (62) of one of the opposing plates (6, 6', 1146) in the separating mechanism (10) and the opposing center plate portion (14, 14', The distance between 1114'). The apparatus of any one of claims 2 and 3, wherein the opposing center plate portion (14, 14') includes a first major surface of the bottom plate (4, 4') ( 142) and a second major surface (144) facing in the opposite direction, and/or wherein the opposing plate (6, 6') comprises a first surface (62) and a second surface (64), and wherein In operation, the apparatus is adapted to position the opposing center plate portion (14, 14') such that the first major surface (142) and the second major surface (144) are associated with the opposing plate (6, 6') is located on the same side of a separation plane (12, 12'). The apparatus of any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the opposing plate (6, 6') and the opposing center plate portion (14, 14') are each adapted to be Moving relative to the bottom plate (4, 4') to change a distance therebetween. The apparatus of any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the bottom plate (4, 4'), the opposite plate (6, 6') and the opposite center plate portion (14, 14) ') is adapted to rotate in one direction about an axis of rotation parallel to the first direction, and wherein the separating mechanism (10) is stationary. The apparatus of any one of claims 2 to 6, further comprising a device adapted to be interposed between the bottom plate (4, 4') and the opposite plate (6, 6') A spacer (34) for defining a minimum distance between the bottom plate (4, 4') and the opposing plate (6, 6'). The apparatus of any one of claims 2 to 7, wherein the opposing center plate portion (14, 14') comprises a support member, preferably a mandrel (30), Extending from a second surface (144) thereof, and wherein the opposing plate (6, 6') and/or the bottom plate (4, 4') comprises a support member extending in opposite directions to the opposing central plate portion Support member. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the support member (30) of one of the opposing center plate portions (14, 14') does not extend through the elastic material. The apparatus of any one of claims 2 to 9, wherein the hole (8, 8') of the opposite plate is a first hole (8, 8'); the opposite plate (6, 6') is movable relative to the bottom plate (8, 8'), the opposing center plate portion (14, 14') is movable relative to the bottom plate (8, 8') and configured to Extending within the first hole (8, 8'), the inner periphery of one of the opposing central plate portions (14, 14') and the inner periphery of one of the first holes (8, 8') Forming a second hole; the bottom plate (4, 4'), the opposing plate (6, 6') and at least two of the opposing center plate portions (14, 14') are configured and/or adapted And the elastic material contained therein and causing one of the elastic materials to partially protrude through the second hole; and on the one hand, the separating mechanism (10) and on the other hand, the bottom plate (4, 4'), the opposite direction At least one of the plate (6, 6') and the opposing center plate portion (14, 14') is configured to be movable relative to the other for bringing the separation mechanism toward the elastic material and affecting the elastic material Separation. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the bottom plate (4, 4') and the opposite plate (6, 6') are fixedly attached to each other, and/or Together define a base member comprising a cavity having an opening configured to receive a pre-cut elastomeric material. The device of any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the device is adapted to form a mask cushion, a forehead support portion and/or a cheek support portion for a patient interface. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the opposing center plate portion (14, 14') has a particular one when viewed from a top view of the first direction The shape of the triangle is roughly triangular. A method of cutting an elastic material (2), preferably having the apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 13, the method comprising the steps of: providing a bottom plate (4, 4', 1144' Providing a pair of plates (6, 6', 1146) comprising a hole (8, 1118) providing a pair of center plate portions (14, 14', 1114'), providing an elastic material (2) between the bottom plate and the opposite plate (6, 6', 1146), providing a separating mechanism (10) adapted to separate at least a portion of the elastic material (2) Adjusting a pair of central plate portions (14, 14', 1114') and the bottom plate (4, 4', 1144) and the opposing plates (6, 6', 1146) along a first direction a distance between at least one of the members, such that a portion (22) of the elastic material (2) protrudes through the aperture (8, 1118), effecting an effect on the elastic material (2) and the separation mechanism (10) Rotational movement between the two, and changing the distance between the separating mechanism (10) and the opposing center plate portion (14, 14', 1114') for influencing the cutting of the protruding portion (22). The method of claim 14, wherein the rotational movement is on the one hand the separation mechanism (10) and on the other hand the elastic material (2), the bottom plate (4, 4'), the pair Between the plate (6, 6') and the opposing center plate portion (14, 14'). The method of any one of claims 14 and 15, wherein the change in distance between the separating mechanism (10) and the opposing center plate portion (14, 14') is perpendicular to The direction of the first direction is affected, and in particular to the extent that the separation mechanism (10) can overlie the opposing center plate portion in a view along the first direction ( At least part of 14, 14') above. The method of any one of claims 14 to 16, wherein the bottom plate (4, 4') and the opposite plate (6, 6') are fixedly attached to each other to form a a base member (1144') having an opening, the method comprising: providing the base member, providing a pair of center plate portions (14, 14', 1114, 1114'), providing a suitable fit for tightly nesting the base member a pre-cut elastic material (2) such that a portion of the elastic material protrudes through the opening to provide a separating mechanism (10) adapted to separate at least a portion (2) of the elastic material, the elastic material (2) Positioning in the base member, adjusting a distance between the opposing center plate portion and the base member along a first direction to prevent a portion of the protruding elastic material (2) from protruding through the opening portion, Affecting a rotational movement between the elastic material (2) and the separating mechanism (10); and changing a distance between the separating mechanism (10) and the opposing center plate portion (14, 14'), In particular, facing a first surface (62) perpendicular to the first direction and/or parallel to the opposing plate (6, 6') Direction, the elastic material for the projection is separated from the impact of a non-elastic material protrudes. The method of claim 17, wherein the base member is a monolithic base member. The use of the apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 13 or the use of the method of any one of claims 14 to 18 to form A cover, in particular a plurality of parts or portions of a medical mask, wherein the components or portions of the mask preferably comprise a foam cushion for the mask, a forehead support and a cheek support. An apparatus for cutting an elastic material (2), the apparatus comprising: a bottom plate (4, 4'), a pair of center plate portions (14, 14'), a pair of plates (6, 6'), including a hole (8, 8'), configured to accommodate the opposing center plate portion (14, 14'), and a separating mechanism (10) adapted to separate the elastic material (2) in use At least a portion, wherein at least one of the bottom plate (4, 4'), the opposite plate (6, 6') and the opposing center plate portion (14, 14') is changeable relative to the other The distance therebetween compresses the elastic material interposed therebetween and defines a protruding portion (22) of the elastic material (2), on the one hand the separating mechanism (10) and on the other hand the bottom plate (4, 4') At least one of the opposing plate (6, 6') and the opposing center plate portion (14, 14') may be associated with other rotations; and the device is configured to change a separation mechanism (10) The distance from the opposing center plate portion (14, 14') is used to influence the cutting of the protruding portion (22).