WO2023152471A1 - Masque - Google Patents

Masque Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2023152471A1
WO2023152471A1 PCT/GB2023/050235 GB2023050235W WO2023152471A1 WO 2023152471 A1 WO2023152471 A1 WO 2023152471A1 GB 2023050235 W GB2023050235 W GB 2023050235W WO 2023152471 A1 WO2023152471 A1 WO 2023152471A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
strap
mask
region
wearer
aperture
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/GB2023/050235
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Joshua MOFFAT
Original Assignee
Globus (Shetland) Limited
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Globus (Shetland) Limited filed Critical Globus (Shetland) Limited
Publication of WO2023152471A1 publication Critical patent/WO2023152471A1/fr

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A62—LIFE-SAVING; FIRE-FIGHTING
    • A62B—DEVICES, APPARATUS OR METHODS FOR LIFE-SAVING
    • A62B18/00—Breathing masks or helmets, e.g. affording protection against chemical agents or for use at high altitudes or incorporating a pump or compressor for reducing the inhalation effort
    • A62B18/08—Component parts for gas-masks or gas-helmets, e.g. windows, straps, speech transmitters, signal-devices
    • A62B18/084—Means for fastening gas-masks to heads or helmets
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A62—LIFE-SAVING; FIRE-FIGHTING
    • A62B—DEVICES, APPARATUS OR METHODS FOR LIFE-SAVING
    • A62B9/00—Component parts for respiratory or breathing apparatus
    • A62B9/04—Couplings; Supporting frames
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A62—LIFE-SAVING; FIRE-FIGHTING
    • A62B—DEVICES, APPARATUS OR METHODS FOR LIFE-SAVING
    • A62B18/00—Breathing masks or helmets, e.g. affording protection against chemical agents or for use at high altitudes or incorporating a pump or compressor for reducing the inhalation effort
    • A62B18/08—Component parts for gas-masks or gas-helmets, e.g. windows, straps, speech transmitters, signal-devices
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A62—LIFE-SAVING; FIRE-FIGHTING
    • A62B—DEVICES, APPARATUS OR METHODS FOR LIFE-SAVING
    • A62B18/00—Breathing masks or helmets, e.g. affording protection against chemical agents or for use at high altitudes or incorporating a pump or compressor for reducing the inhalation effort
    • A62B18/08—Component parts for gas-masks or gas-helmets, e.g. windows, straps, speech transmitters, signal-devices
    • A62B18/10—Valves
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A62—LIFE-SAVING; FIRE-FIGHTING
    • A62B—DEVICES, APPARATUS OR METHODS FOR LIFE-SAVING
    • A62B9/00—Component parts for respiratory or breathing apparatus

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a mask and in particular, but not exclusively, to a respirator mask for protecting the wearer from inhaling hazardous atmospheres, including fumes, vapours, gases and particulate matter such as dusts and airborne microorganisms.
  • respirator masks typically include an orinasal portion which seals against the face and around the nose and mouth of a wearer. Such masks also typically include an exhalation valve located proximal to the mouth to allow air to flow out of the orinasal portion when the wearer exhales.
  • the respirator mask may also include a pair of inhalation valves each located on the side of the orinasal portion to allow air to enter the mask when the wearer breathes in.
  • a filter assembly is typically associated with each inhalation valve to filter the air and capture any potentially harmful particulates before the air enters the orinasal portion and is inhaled by the wearer.
  • Each valve typically includes a flexible disc-shaped diaphragm valve element supported across a valve orifice provided in the orinasal portion of the respirator mask.
  • the valve element is typically constrained at its centre and supported by a number of spaced apart ribs extending from a central region to the edge of the orifice.
  • the outer region of the valve element seals against a circular valve seat surface surrounding the orifice when the valve element is in a closed position and flexes from the closed position to an open position when a pressure differential is applied across the valve when the wearer exhales or inhales depending on whether the valve is an exhalation valve or an inhalation valve.
  • conventional valve orifice configurations provide a relatively obstructed pathway to air flowing through the valve in use and can undesirably cause air flow resistance and turbulence and in turn discomfort to the wearer.
  • the apertures defined between the ribs extending across the valve orifice are relatively large which can undesirably result in the flexible valve element being urged beyond the closed position and ultimately causing fatigue and/or failure of the valve element itself.
  • conventional respirator masks also include straps for securing the mask to at least the head, and often also to the neck, of the wearer. These straps typically attach to a body of the mask, such as the orinasal portion of a half-face mask or to a frame surrounding a lens/window of a full-face mask.
  • the attachment points are typically fixed or provide 360 degrees of rotation in a single plane which offers no or particularly limited adjustability and provide no means for fitting the mask to the wearer in an optimum position for maximum comfort.
  • the strap systems of conventional masks are prone to over-rotating and becoming tangled or misaligned when not in use, such as when being stored or transported, which can be time consuming and frustrating for the wearer when attempting to fit the mask.
  • the strap systems of conventional respirator masks are sometimes adjustable in length via a buckle located proximal to the side of the face, however these buckles can often cause discomfort to the wearer and excess strap material can undesirably fall or hang into the wearer’s line of sight during use.
  • a strap assembly for securing a respirator mask to a wearer, comprising: an elongate coupling member for coupling together free end regions of a pair of straps each extending from an opposed side of a mask body; and an engagement member removably mounted on the coupling member for engagement with a backside of the head or neck of a wearer, wherein opposed end regions of the coupling member are each configured to adjustably grip a respective one of the straps to secure the mask to the wearer.
  • each end region comprises an aperture for receiving an end region of the respective strap and a tab extending across the aperture.
  • each tab extends from an inboard edge of the respective aperture.
  • an outboard free edge of each tab comprises a plurality of first teeth for gripping the respective strap.
  • an outboard edge of each aperture comprises a plurality of second teeth for gripping the respective strap.
  • the first teeth are aligned with gaps between the second teeth.
  • the outboard edge of each aperture is sloped inwardly towards the aperture.
  • each tab is connected to an edge of the respective aperture by a substantially resilient hinge region.
  • the engagement portion comprises an inner portion, an outer portion spaced apart from the inner portion, and opposed side portions extending therebetween to define a slotted channel extending longitudinally through the engagement member.
  • the outer portion comprises at least one aperture for receiving a correspondingly shaped and sized boss region of the coupling member to locate and retain the engagement member on the coupling member.
  • the coupling member comprises a laterally oriented channel disposed between the boss region and each end region of the coupling member for locating a correspondingly sized region of the engagement member therein to further retain the engagement member on the coupling member.
  • the coupling member comprises a substantially stiff yet resilient material and the engagement member comprises a substantially flexible yet resilient material.
  • At least an inner engagement surface of the engagement member is substantially curved in both longitudinal and lateral axes when in an unstressed state.
  • the inner engagement surface comprises a plurality of spaced apart and longitudinally extending ribs.
  • a respirator mask comprising a strap assembly according to the first aspect of the present invention and a pair of opposed straps each extending from an opposed side of a mask body for securing the mask to a wearer.
  • a distal end region of each strap with respect to the mask body is adjustably located through and gripped by a respective one of the end regions of the coupling member.
  • the pair of opposed straps are head straps for securing the mask to a wearer’s head, and the mask comprises a further pair of opposed straps for securing the mask to a wearer’s neck.
  • the mask comprises: a substantially flexible orinasal portion for engaging over and around a wearer’s mouth and nose; an exhalation valve mounted in the orinasal portion for locating proximal to the wearer’s mouth in use; and a valve cover assembly removably mounted over the exhalation valve and comprising at least one coupling element on each side thereof for releasably coupling respective proximal end regions of the straps to the valve cover assembly.
  • a method of assembling a harness strap for a respirator mask comprising: urging a first end region of opposed end regions of an elongate coupling member through a slotted channel extending longitudinally through a substantially flexible yet resilient engagement member for engaging a backside of a wearer’s head; and locating a boss region of the coupling member in a correspondingly shaped aperture of the engagement member to translationally constrain the engagement member with respect to the coupling member.
  • the method comprises: feeding a distal end region of each of the straps with respect to a mask body of the mask in a first direction through an aperture of a respective one of the end regions of the coupling member; and gripping each strap with a respective tab extending across the aperture to prevent the strap moving in a second direction opposed to the first direction, wherein each tab is substantially resilient to allow a respective strap to be pulled through the aperture in the first direction to selectively adjust a length of the strap between the mask body and the coupling member.
  • Figure 1 illustrates an isometric front view of a half face respirator mask according to certain embodiments of the present invention with an exhalation valve cover fitted;
  • Figure 2 illustrates a rear sectional view through the orinasal portion of the respirator mask of Figure 1 ;
  • FIG. 3 illustrates an isometric front view of the respirator mask of Figure 1 with the exhalation valve cover removed;
  • Figure 4 illustrates an isometric front close-up view of the exhalation valve orifice of the respirator mask of Figure 1 with an exhalation valve element of the valve removed;
  • Figure 5a illustrates the underside of a first coupling element of a harness coupling system according to certain embodiments of the present invention
  • Figure 5b illustrates a second coupling element of the harness coupling system which is engageable with the first coupling element of Figure 5a;
  • Figure 5c illustrates a cross section through the harness coupling system wherein the first coupling element is coupled to the second coupling element
  • Figure 6a illustrates a harness coupling system according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention for a full-face respirator mask
  • Figure 6b illustrates a first coupling element of the harness coupling system of Figure Figure 6c illustrates a second coupling element of the harness coupling system of Figure 6a;
  • Figure 6d illustrates a cross section through the harness coupling system of Figure 6a wherein the first coupling element is coupled to the second coupling element;
  • Figure 7a illustrates a head strap assembly according to certain embodiments of the present invention
  • Figure 7b illustrates a coupling member of the head strap assembly of Figure 7a
  • Figure 7c illustrates a head engagement member of the head strap assembly of Figure 7a
  • Figure 7d illustrates a cross section through the head strap assembly of Figure 7a.
  • a respirator mask 100 includes a substantially flexible orinasal portion 102 for sealingly engaging against the face and around the nose and mouth of a wearer, a valve cover assembly 200 coupled to the orinasal portion 102, and a harness system 300 coupled to the valve cover assembly 200 for securing the mask to the head and neck of the wearer.
  • the orinasal portion 102 is a one-piece component moulded from a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or the like.
  • a relatively stiff support member 104 is located inside the flexible orinasal portion 102 to add structure and strength to the orinasal portion and prevent the same from collapsing.
  • the support member 104 is a one-piece component moulded from a polycarbonate acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) blend or the like.
  • ABS polycarbonate acrylonitrile butadiene styrene
  • the support member 104 defines a central region 106 located between two side regions 108,110.
  • the side regions 108,110 are angled rearwardly by around 30 degrees with respect to the central region 106, i.e. defining an internal angle of around 150 degrees, to engage with and support the respective inner surfaces of the orinasal portion 102.
  • the bend lines 105 allow the side regions to flex slightly with respect to the central region to provide some resilience during storage, transport and use, whilst an optional strengthening rib 107 across each bend line adds stiffness to limit the amount of flex.
  • the central region 106 of the support member 104 includes an exhalation orifice 1 12 and, as illustrated in Figures 1 and 3, each side region 108,110 includes an inhalation orifice 114,116.
  • a substantially circular central wall region 118 extends forwardly from the central region 106 of the support member 104 and extends through a correspondingly shaped aperture in the orinasal portion 102.
  • a substantially circular side wall region 122,124 extends forwardly from the respective side region 108,110 of the support member 104 and through a respective aperture provided in the orinasal portion 102.
  • Each wall region defines a cylinder shape and the central wall region is longer, i.e. extends further, than each side wall region.
  • the central wall region 118 of the support member 104 includes three projections 130a, 130b, 130c equally spaced apart around a forward edge of the central wall region 118 to provide a first part of a bayonet connection for releasably coupling a valve cover support portion 202 of the valve cover assembly 200 to the support member 104 of the orinasal portion 102 and over the exhalation orifice 112.
  • Each of the side wall regions 122,124 of the support member 104 includes a pair of opposed projections 134a, 134b extending outwardly from an outer edge of the respective side wall region to provide a first part of a bayonet connection for releasably coupling a filter assembly (not shown) to each of the side wall regions for fluid communication with a respective one of the inhalation orifices 114,116.
  • the valve cover support portion 202 includes a pair of laterally spaced apart rails 204 provided on a forward-facing surface 206 of the valve cover support portion such that the central wall region 118 defining the exhalation orifice 112 is located between the two rails when the valve cover support portion is mounted on the orinasal portion 102.
  • a resilient element 208 is provided in an aperture 210 formed in the forwardfacing surface 206 of the valve cover support portion which engages with a corresponding recess provided in a rear-facing surface of a valve cover member 212 as shown in Figure 1 .
  • the valve cover member 212 includes corresponding grooves or channels for receiving the rails 204 to allow the cover member to be slideably mounted up and on to the valve cover support portion 202 whilst being constrained in the forward direction by the interlocking engagement between the rails and grooves/channels.
  • a projecting region of the cover member 212 is forced over a curved surface of the resilient element 208 which projects beyond the forward-facing surface 206 of the valve cover support portion 202 and urges the resilient member to flex into the aperture 210 before resiliently returning to its original position and behind the projecting region of the valve cover member to thereby secure the valve cover member 212 to the valve cover support portion 202 and prevent it sliding downwardly.
  • valve cover member 212 can be manually urged downwardly with respect to the valve cover support portion 202 and in turn the projecting region of the valve cover member 212 is urged back over the projecting surface of the resilient element 208 to thereby remove the valve cover member 212 from the valve cover support portion 202 if/when desired, such as to clean and maintain the exhalation valve and/or valve cover member.
  • the valve cover member 212 includes a plurality of slots 214 for allowing air to flow through the same when the wearer exhales via the exhalation valve.
  • the valve cover member 212 and the valve cover support portion 202 may be integrally formed such that the valve cover assembly is a one-piece component removably mounted over the exhalation valve of the orinasal portion.
  • the exhalation orifice 112 includes a support structure 136 for supporting a substantially flexible disc-shaped diaphragm valve element (referenced 140 in Figure 3) which seals around its peripheral edge region against a forward-facing circumferential seal surface 113 surrounding the orifice when the valve element 140 is in a closed position.
  • a substantially flexible disc-shaped diaphragm valve element referenced 140 in Figure 3
  • the peripheral edge region of the valve element 140 flexes outwardly and away from the seal surface 113 towards an open position when a pressure differential is created across the exhalation valve when the wearer exhales.
  • This one-way valve arrangement prevents potentially harmful particles entering the orinasal portion when the wearer inhales.
  • the support structure 136 extending across the exhalation orifice 112 supports the valve element 140 across its diameter when in the closed position and prevents the same being pulled through the orifice, i.e. overclosure of the valve element, when a pressure difference is applied across the valve when the wearer inhales.
  • the valve element may be substantially square or hexagonal or the like, for engaging with a correspondingly shaped seal surface, whilst still being mounted centrally with respect to the valve orifice to act as a diaphragm valve element.
  • the support structure 136 includes a central projection 138 disposed on a central axis of the orifice and which engages in a bore of a central boss 141 of the valve element 140 to securely locate the same on the support structure and over the exhalation orifice 112.
  • the central projection 138 includes a pair of lugs 142 which outwardly extend substantially perpendicularly in opposed directions from the free end of the projection 138. These lugs locate within an undercut region of the bore in the valve element to secure the same to the projection and prevent the valve element from being forced off the projection when the wearer exhales.
  • the resilient material of the valve element 140 allows the lugs to be urged into the bore of the central boss 141 whilst providing sufficient security when located on the central projection 138 and also allowing the valve element to be manually pulled from the projection when removal is required or desired for cleaning or replacement.
  • the central boss 141 which extends forwardly when the valve element is in situ on the central projection 138 of the support structure 136 provides a form of handle for a user to grip between their thumb and index finger when removing/fitting the valve element 140 from/to the projection 138 respectively. This arrangement is particularly desirable in view of the central wall region 118 of the support member 104 being deeper than the side wall regions 108,110 which could otherwise make manual installation and/or removal of the exhalation valve element 140 difficult.
  • the disc-shaped and flexible exhalation valve element 140 comprises a tiered outer surface wherein the innermost tier is located forward of the outermost tier.
  • the rear surface of the valve element is similarly tiered and each tier is substantially the same thickness.
  • This arrangement desirably provides radially spaced circular hinge lines between the centre and outer edge of the valve element to maximise its efficiency and responsiveness when opening and closing with respect to the seal surface 113 in use.
  • the exhalation valve element may be substantially flat on both surfaces like the illustrated inhalation valve elements or the inhalation valve elements may take the same or similar form as the illustrated exhalation valve element.
  • the support structure 136 further includes a support ring 144 which is coaxial with the central projection 138 and located approximately midway between the central projection 138 and the inner surface 145 of the orifice.
  • a pair of inner elongate support portions 146,148 extend in opposed directions from the base of the central projection 136 to the support ring 144 and are integrally formed therewith.
  • the inner support portions 146,148 are disposed on a diametral axis of the orifice, i.e. they are axially aligned and diametrically opposed to each other.
  • a single inner support portion may be provided to integrally couple the central projection to the support ring and support the same in the centre of the valve orifice.
  • a pair of diametrically opposed inner support portions aptly provides secure and balanced support to the central projection 138 and to support each half of an inner region of the valve element 140 when in the closed position.
  • the support ring 144 may not be substantially circular as illustrated, and may be a different shape to correspond with a shape of the diaphragm valve element such as hexagonal, pentagonal, octagonal, or square, for example.
  • a substantially circular support ring provides an optimum amount of support to a mid-region of the discshaped valve element whilst minimising the resistance to air flowing through the valve in use.
  • Eight primary outer elongate support portions 150 extend from the support ring 144 to the inner surface of the orifice wall which defines the valve orifice.
  • the primary outer support portions 150 are equally spaced apart by 45 degrees wherein the first (12 o’clock) and fifth (6 o’clock) primary outer support portions are disposed on the diametrical axis to be axially aligned with the inner support portions 146,148.
  • More or less primary outer support portions may be provided depending on the size of orifice but eight equally spaced support portions provide effective support to the outer region of the valve element to prevent overclosure thereof, whilst minimising air flow resistance and turbulence, particularly for an orifice having a diameter of around 25-30 mm.
  • the support ring 144 may be substantially octagonal and a primary outer support portion may extend outwardly from each corner of the support ring to the inner surface of the orifice wall.
  • a secondary outer support portion 152 is provided substantially midway between each adjacent pair of the primary outer support portions 150 and is in the form of a relatively short projection, such as a nib, extending only partially towards the support ring 144.
  • a forward-facing surface of each secondary outer support portion 152 is substantially coplanar with the forward-facing surface defined by the support ring 144 and the primary outer support portions 146,148,150.
  • the coplanar forwardfacing surfaces of the support structure 136 are coplanar with the seal surface 113 against which the valve element 140 engages when in the closed position.
  • Each secondary outer support portion 152 is around 15-20% the length of each primary outer support portion 150, i.e. the primary outer support portions are around 75-80% longer than the secondary outer support portions 152.
  • Each secondary outer support portion 152 comprises a curved end surface to reduce the turbulence effects thereof and to eliminate any sharp corners which could otherwise compromise the integrity of the valve element in use.
  • the inner support portions 146,148 of the support structure 136 support an inner region of the diaphragm valve element 140 when in the closed position and prevent the same being forced beyond the closed position when the wearer inhales.
  • the support ring 144 supports a mid-region of the valve element and the primary outer support portions 150 support an outer region of the valve element.
  • the secondary outer support portions 152 provide additional support to the outer edge region of the valve element 140 to prevent overclosure and without compromising the flow of air through the valve when the wearer exhales.
  • the configuration of the support structure 136 maximises the opening area across the orifice for maximum airflow through the valve, whilst minimising airflow resistance of the support portions located in the path of the airflow, and maximises the support of the valve element across the entire diameter of the valve element from its centre to its outer edge region to prevent overclosure and also fatigue and failure in use. In turn, a wearer’s experience in terms of breathing efficiency is improved and their comfort maximised.
  • the inhalation orifices 114,116 each include a substantially identical, or at least similar, support structure for supporting a respective inhalation valve element (not shown) in substantially the same way as in the exhalation valve described above.
  • each inhalation valve support structure extends inwardly into the interior region defined by the orinasal portion 102 and includes an enlarged circular head region 160 over which a central hole in the respective inhalation valve element 162 is located.
  • the central hole in each inhalation valve element 162 has a diameter which is less than the head region 160 of the central projection to retain the same with respect to the inhalation orifice.
  • the flexibility and resilience of the valve element material allows the valve element 162 to be urged over the head region 160 when fitting or removing the valve element.
  • Each inhalation valve element 162 is a flexible sheet-like disc which can be easily removed from inside the orinasal portion 102 for cleaning or replacement.
  • four straps 302 of the harness system 300 of the respirator mask 100 each couple to a respective corner region of the valve cover support portion 202 via a coupling element 304.
  • the two upper straps are coupled together at their free ends by a head pad assembly 700 (as illustrated in Figure 7a) for securing the mask to the head of a wearer, whilst the lower two straps are coupled together at their free ends by a buckle/clip arrangement (not shown) for securing the mask to the neck of the wearer.
  • FIG. 5a illustrates the underside of one of the coupling elements 304.
  • Each coupling element 304 is substantially trapezoidal, i.e. a triangle with a flat apex, in profile defined by a relatively wide end region 306, a relatively narrow end region 308 opposite the wide end region, and a pair of opposed and angled side regions 307,309 extending between the wide end regions and the narrow end region.
  • the coupling element 304 includes a substantially triangular and symmetrical aperture 310 including a slotted region 312 disposed proximal to and parallel with the wide end region of the coupling element for receiving an end region of a respective strap.
  • the end region of the strap can be fed through the slotted region 312, returned back on itself and fixed, such as by stitching, to the body of the strap to thereby securely attached the strap to its respective coupling element 304, as illustrated in Figure 1 .
  • the length of the slotted region 312 substantially corresponds to a width of the strap to prevent the strap moving laterally in the slotted region.
  • the aperture 310 further includes a substantially trapezoidal receiving region 314 extending from the slotted region 312 and defined by angled sides which taper inwardly towards the narrow end region 308 of the coupling element 304.
  • the tapered sides of the receiving region 314 start inboard of the ends of the slotted region 312 which prevents the strap migrating into the receiving region from the slotted region.
  • the aperture 310 further includes a substantially circular locating region 316 in communication with the receiving region 314. A width of the opening into the locating region 316 from the receiving region 314 is slightly less than a diameter of the locating region.
  • Figure 5a illustrates the underside of the coupling element 304 and shows a dovetail-shaped recess 318 formed in an under surface of the coupling element and proximal to the narrow end region 308 of the coupling element 304.
  • the dovetail-shaped recess 318 extends from the locating region 316 of the aperture 310 such that the sides of the recess taper outwardly towards the narrow end region 308.
  • each corner region of the valve cover support portion 202 includes a projecting element 320 extending outwardly and substantially perpendicularly from a substantially flat bearing surface 322.
  • the projecting element 320 comprises an elongate body portion 324 having a substantially circular cross section and an enlarged head portion 326 which has a substantially circular cross section.
  • either or both of the body portion and head portion of the projecting element may have an oval cross section wherein a major axis thereof is directed forwardly, i.e. away from a wearer in use.
  • An elongate stop portion 328 in the form of a rib extends forwardly along the bearing surface 322 from the base of the body portion 324.
  • the receiving region 314 of the aperture 310 in the coupling element 304 is sized to receive the head portion 326 of the projecting element 320.
  • the size of the head portion 326 and receiving region 314 of the aperture 310 are such that the receiving region 314 of the coupling element 304 will not receive the head portion 326 when the projecting element 320 is oriented substantially perpendicularly to the coupling element 304 and receiving region thereof.
  • the narrow end region (front) of the coupling element must instead be angled downwardly and a front edge region 330 of the head portion located through the receiving region 314 of the aperture 310.
  • the upper surface 332 of the head portion 326 is angled upwardly, i.e.
  • a forward region 334, such as half, of the under surface of the head portion is similarly angled upwardly and substantially parallel with the upper surface of the head portion, whilst a rear region 336, such as the other half, of the under surface of the head portion is substantially parallel with the bearing surface 322.
  • At least the angled upper surface 332 of the head portion allows the front region 330 of the head portion to be located through the receiving region 314 of the aperture 310.
  • the angled rear region 333 of the upper surface of the head portion allows the wide end portion of the coupling element 304 to be urged downwardly to force the entire head portion 326 of the projecting element 320 through the receiving region 314 of the aperture 310.
  • the rear region 333 of the upper surface of the head portion may be oriented at a steeper angle to the front region of the upper surface of the head portion to facilitate easier locating of the coupling element on to the projecting element.
  • the coupling element 304 When the head portion 326 of the projecting element 320 is located through the receiving region 314 of the aperture 310, the coupling element 304 is urged rearwardly to force the cylindrical body portion 324 of the projecting element 320 into the corresponding sized and shaped locating region 316 of the aperture 310. A resilience of the material of the coupling element allows the body portion of the projecting element to be forced through the relatively narrow opening of the locating region 316 from the receiving region 314 of the coupling element.
  • the coupling element 304 may be called a first coupling element and the projecting element 320 may at least form a portion of a second coupling element engageable with the first coupling element 304.
  • a distance between the bearing surface 322 and the substantially parallel rear region 336 of the under surface of the head portion 326 is substantially the same as a thickness of the coupling element 304 such that when the body portion of the projecting element is snapped into the correspondingly sized and shaped locating region 314 of the aperture 310 in the coupling element 304, the coupling element is constrained on the projecting element 320 in all translational directions but is free to rotate with respect to an axis of the projecting element.
  • the stop portion 328 extending from the base of the projecting element 320 limits the amount of rotation of the coupling element by engaging with either end surface of the dovetail-shaped recess 318 in the coupling element.
  • the rotation track defined by the dovetailed or actuate recess 318 allows for around 65-85 degrees of rotation.
  • the angled front under surface 334 of the head portion 326 allows a degree of rotation (tilt) with respect to an axis perpendicular to the axis of the projecting element. Such rotation with respect to one or both axes provides some adjustability/tolerance for the wearer which improves comfort.
  • Figure 5c shows the coupling element 304 attached to a respective one of the corner regions of the valve cover support portion 202.
  • the coupling element 304 is first urged forwardly with respect to the projecting element 320 to force the cylindrical body portion 324 of the projecting element 320 out of the locating region 316 of the aperture 310 and into the receiving region 314 of the aperture.
  • the rear wide end region 306 of the coupling element can then be lifted upwardly to urge the rear edge of the head portion 326 of the projecting element 320 out of the triangular shaped receiving region 316 of the aperture 310 of the coupling element 304.
  • the coupling element is then decoupled from the mask.
  • Figure 6a illustrates an alternative embodiment of a harness/strap coupling arrangement 500 suitable for a full-face respirator mask 600 comprising a substantially rigid and transparent lens or faceguard/window portion 602 secured to a substantially flexible sealing portion 603 for sealing engagement with the face of a wearer.
  • Figure 6b illustrates the underside of an elongate first coupling element 604 which includes a pair of slotted through apertures 605,606 disposed proximal to a rear end region 607 of the first coupling element and spaced apart by a laterally extending bar portion 608.
  • a free end region of a strap of a harness system (not shown) can be fed from the underside through the foremost slotted aperture 605, over the bar portion 608 and through the rearmost slotted aperture 606. Friction forces between the strap and the bar and apertures holds the strap in place, particularly when the strap is rubber, with respect to the first coupling element.
  • the first coupling element 604 further includes a keyhole-like aperture 610 longitudinally spaced apart from the slotted apertures 605,606 and defined by a substantially circular receiving region 614 having a first diameter and a substantially circular locating region 616 having a second diameter, wherein the locating region extends into the receiving region to communicate therewith and the first diameter is greater than the second diameter.
  • a width of the opening into the locating region 616 from the receiving region 614 is slightly less than a diameter of the locating region.
  • a dove-tailed recess 618 defining an arcuate path and opposed end surfaces is disposed adjacent to and extending into the receiving region 614.
  • a wall region 620 follows the periphery of the locating region 616, the receiving region 614 and the dove-tailed recess 618.
  • a gap 622 is provided centrally in the wall region 620 where it follows the relatively wide end of the dove-tailed recess.
  • a second coupling element 630 includes a base portion 632, a first projecting element 634 extending perpendicularly from the base portion, and a second projecting element 636 extending perpendicularly from the base portion and spaced apart from the first projecting element 634.
  • Each projecting element 634,636 includes an elongate body portion 638,639 having a substantially circular cross section and an enlarged head portion 640,641 which also has a substantially circular cross section.
  • the first projecting element 634 is longer/taller than the second projecting element 636.
  • the second coupling element 630 is relatively rigid and stiff and is aptly formed from a plastics material.
  • the second coupling element 630 is located in a correspondingly sized and shaped recess 652 formed in the underside of a flexible lug 650 extending from an upper and central location of the sealing portion 603 of the mask, i.e. substantially on the sagittal plane of a wearer when in use.
  • a pair of similar lugs are also provided on each side of the sealing portion 603 to provide five lugs for a suitable harness system to couple to for securing the full-face respirator mask to the head of a wearer.
  • the flexible yet resilient properties of the lug material allow the projecting elements to be urged through the respective holes.
  • the distance between an under surface of the head portion 641 of the second projecting element 636 and an outwardly-facing bearing surface 642 of the lug 650 is substantially the same as a thickness of the lug material defining the outer bearing surface 642 and an inner base surface of the recess 652. This arrangement secures the second coupling element 630 in the recess of the lug 650 and ensures it is constrained in all directions with respect to the lug.
  • the rear end region 607 of the first coupling element 604 is angled upwardly with respect to the main body of the first coupling element to provide a handle for a wearer/user to grip when attaching/releasing the first coupling element to/from the second coupling element.
  • the circular receiving region 614 of the second coupling element is aligned with and located over the correspondingly shaped head portion 640 of the first projecting element 634 in substantially an axial direction with respect to the projecting element.
  • the head portion 640 of the first projecting element 634 is received in and passes through the receiving region 614 of the aperture 610 in the first coupling element 604.
  • the gap 622 between the ends of the wall region 620 accommodates the head portion 641 of the second projecting element 636 when the first coupling element 604 is initially located on the first projecting element 634.
  • the head of the second projecting element 636 will engage with the wall region 620 and rotation of the first coupling element to align the same with the axis of the lug, and in turn the head portion of the second projecting element with the gap in the wall region, will result in the head portion locating in the gap which will provide a tactile indication to the user that the first coupling element is correctly aligned with the second coupling element.
  • the first coupling element 604 is then urged rearwardly, i.e. away from the sealing portion 602 of the mask, such that the cylindrical body portion 638 of the first projecting element 634 is urged towards and snaps into the circular locating region 616 of the aperture 610.
  • the head portion 641 of the second projecting element 636 is located in the dove-tailed recess 618 of the first coupling element 604.
  • a distance between an underside of the head portion 640 of the first projecting element 634 and the upper/outer bearing surface 642 of the lug 650 is substantially equal to a thickness of the first coupling element 604.
  • the first coupling element 604 is now constrained in all translational directions whist being rotatable about the first projecting element 634.
  • the rotation is limited in both directions by the ends of the dove-tailed recess of the first coupling element engaging with the head portion of the second projecting element.
  • the rotation track defined by the dove-tailed or actuate recess 618 allows for around 65-85 degrees of rotation.
  • this coupling arrangement may be configured to allow the first coupling element to tilt with respect to the second coupling element, as described above in relation to the embodiment illustrated in Figures 5a to 5c, the lugs 650 are sufficiently flexible to provide this tolerance for improved comfort.
  • harness coupling arrangement described above and illustrated in Figures 6a to 6d may alternatively be suitable for use on a half-face respirator mask.
  • harness coupling arrangement described above and illustrated in Figures 5a to 5c may alternatively be suitable for use on a full-face respirator mask.
  • Each harness coupling arrangement provides a secure means of coupling a harness system to a respirator mask whilst also providing a quick-release mechanism for efficiently decoupling the harness system from the mask if required, such as for cleaning or maintenance purposes or to fit a differently configured harness system to the mask including the same/suitable coupling elements for attaching the harness system to the mask.
  • the harness coupling arrangements are configured to allow but limit rotation of a buckle component attaching a strap of a harness system to the mask body to thereby allow the angle of each harness strap with respect to the mask body to be adjusted independently when in use whilst preventing the straps of the harness system becoming tangled or misaligned when not in use.
  • a harness system for securing a mask may include one or more straps for securing the mask to the head of a wearer.
  • a head strap assembly 700 includes an elongate coupling member 702 for coupling together the free end regions of a pair of opposed head straps 302,303 each extending from a respective side of the mask body, such as from respective sides of the valve cover support member 202 as illustrated in Figure 1 .
  • the head strap assembly 700 further includes a head engagement member 704 mounted on the coupling member 702 for engaging the back of the wearer’s head.
  • the strap assembly may be a neck strap assembly comprising the elongate coupling member for coupling together the free end regions of a pair of opposed neck straps each extending from a respective side of the mask body, and an engagement member mounted on the coupling member for engaging the back of the wearer’s neck.
  • the coupling member 702 includes a substantially square aperture 705 proximal to each end thereof and a tab 706 extending across the aperture from an inboard edge thereof.
  • Each tab 706 is connected to the inboard edge of the respective aperture by a substantially resilient hinge region 708 which allows the tab to be urged outwardly about the hinge region and away from the aperture towards an open position, whilst being returnable to a closed position when no force is being applied to the tab.
  • the tab itself may be substantially resilient to allow some flex whilst returning to the closed position when no force is being applied thereto.
  • An outboard edge 710 of each tab includes a plurality of teeth for gripping a respective one of the straps 302,303.
  • each end region of the coupling member may comprise a different form of adjustable strap grip such as a cam buckle, or a fixed or sliding bar buckle, for example.
  • each strap 302,303 is fed, from an inner side of the coupling member 702, through a gap between the outboard edge 712 of the respective aperture 705 and the toothed outboard edge 710 of the respective tab 706.
  • the outboard edge 712 of each aperture may be angled to help guide the strap thereover and eliminate any sharp edges which could undesirably compromise the integrity of the strap material during adjustment of the straps in use.
  • An angled edge surface also provides a greater surface area for supporting the strap when the toothed edge is gripping the strap in the closed position.
  • the tab can be manually flexed outwardly to increase the gap if required to feed the end of the strap therethrough.
  • the configuration of the resilient toothed tabs 706 allow for efficient and non-complex adjustment of the straps, whilst preventing slippage of the straps when in a desired position for optimal security and comfort.
  • the head strap assembly 700 according to certain embodiments of the present invention allows the free ends of the straps to be located behind the head of the wearer and therefore eliminates any risk of the free ends of the straps dropping into the wearer’s line of vision during use.
  • the coupling member 702 and/or the head engagement member 704 may include a first attachment element for releasably attaching to a second attachment element of the straps to releasably attach the free end regions of the straps, which are distal to the mask body, to the head strap assembly 700 to further keep them out of the way during use.
  • the first connector may comprise a magnet mounted on or moulded into the coupling member or engagement member, and each strap may include one or more metallic elements attracted to the magnet, such as a plurality of ferromagnetic elements spaced apart along the length of at least the end region of the strap, for releasable engagement with the magnet.
  • the metallic element/s may be in the form of small sheet-like discs adhered to the strap or located in the strap, or one or more wires extending through the strap like a fibre.
  • the coupling member 702 comprises a one-piece plastics component which is flexible but resilient, and moulded from polypropylene or the like. Its flexibility allows it to conform to the curvature of the back of the wearer’s head when the head engagement member 704 is engaged therewith and when the straps are pulled tight to secure the mask to the wearer’s face.
  • the coupling member is substantially curved along its length in an unstressed state to at least partially conform with the back of a wearer’s head before the straps are tightened.
  • the head engagement member 704 is configured to be supported on the coupling member 702 and between the end regions thereof including the strap gripping tabs 706.
  • the head engagement member 704 acts as a head pad and provides a central region of the head strap assembly 700 with an increased width, and in turn surface area, compared to the coupling member 702 for engagement with the wearer’s head.
  • An increase in contact surface area provides increased support and grip with the wearer’s head, whilst also improving comfort.
  • An inner engagement surface of the head engagement member 704 may include a plurality of projections, such as spaced apart and parallel ribs, for gripping the wearer’s head and also providing channels for breathability and airflow to minimise/prevent sweating.
  • the head engagement member 704 includes an inner portion 720, an outer portion 724 spaced apart from the inner portion 720, and opposed side portions 726,728 to thereby define a slotted channel 730 extending longitudinally through the head engagement member 704 which is in a substantially perpendicular (lateral) direction to the sagittal plane of a wearer when the mask is being worn.
  • the side portions and the inner portion collectively provide an engagement surface 722 for engaging the wearer’s head.
  • the slotted channel 730 is sized and shaped to correspondingly receive and locate the coupling member 702 therein such that the coupling member is laterally constrained in channel with respect to a longitudinal axis of the channel.
  • the outer portion 724 of the head engagement member 704 is formed by a pair of longitudinally spaced apart bridge regions 732 extending laterally across the channel 730 which are substantially flexible to allow one of the enlarged end regions of the coupling member 702 to be urged through the channel during assembly of the head strap assembly 700.
  • the bridge regions 732 and the side portions 726,728 define a central aperture 733 therebetween.
  • the head engagement member 704 comprises a one-piece, substantially flexible elastomeric material, such as TPE or the like, which further allows the coupling member 702 to be urged through the channel of the head engagement member 704 to assemble the head strap assembly 700, whilst also allowing the head engagement member 704 to flex with the coupling member 702 to conform closely with the back of the wearer’s head in use for optimal comfort, support and security.
  • the head engagement member 704 is substantially more flexible and less stiff than the strap coupling member 702.
  • at least an inner engagement surface of the engagement member is substantially curved along its length and across its width, i.e.
  • Each side portion 726,728 includes an elongate scalloped region 729 extending into the outer surface of the head engagement member 704 and along the respective edge. These scalloped regions 729 allow a wearer to tactilely locate and grip the head engagement member 704 whilst wearing the mask and move the same into a desired position on the backside of their head for optimal comfort and security.
  • the inner portion 720 of the head engagement member 704 includes a pair of longitudinally spaced apart apertures 734 laterally extending across the base of the channel between the two side portions 726,728.
  • base apertures 734 are aligned with the bridge regions 732 and allow the head engagement member 704 to flex around, i.e. laterally, a central portion of the back of the wearer’s head to conform with the curvature of the back of the wearer’s head without the inner portion 720 bunching up and causing discomfort to the wearer. Furthermore, the base apertures 734 define three longitudinally spaced apart and laterally extending web regions 736 forming the inner portion 720 each of which are substantially flexible to further aid insertion of the coupling member 702 through the channel 730 during assembly.
  • the coupling member 702 includes a raised boss region 738 located substantially centrally between the two end regions and having a substantially square profile.
  • the boss region 738 extends the full width of the elongate coupling member 702.
  • the boss region may extend partially across the width of the coupling member and/or may be a different shape, such as rectangular, oval or circular.
  • the boss region may instead be a continuous wall region defining a square, rectangle, oval, circle or the like.
  • the coupling member 702 further includes a rib 740 disposed between the boss region 738 and each resilient tab 706 and extending laterally across the coupling member.
  • Each rib 740 and a respective side of the boss region 738 define a lateral channel 742 across the upper surface of the coupling member.
  • the central boss region 738 of the coupling member 702 locates in the correspondingly shaped and sized central aperture 733 of the head engagement member 704.
  • the bridge regions 732 of the head engagement member 704 each locate in a respective one of the lateral channels 742 of the coupling member 702.
  • the lateral channels may be formed in the lower surface (forward-facing in use) of the coupling member for correspondingly sized regions, such as bridge regions, of the lower region of the engagement member to locate in.
  • the head engagement member 704 is thereby longitudinally, and further laterally, constrained with respect to the coupling member 702, and vice versa.
  • the enlarged end regions of the coupling member with respect to a width of the longitudinal channel 730 through the head engagement member 704 further longitudinally constrains the head engagement member 704 on the coupling member.
  • the integration of a relatively stiff yet resilient plastics coupling member 702 with a relatively flexible yet resilient head engagement member 704 provides a rear-adjustable head strap assembly 700 that eliminates the need for ultrasonic welding, whilst allowing the two components to be separable for efficient mask maintenance and component recycling since compound or composite materials are avoided.
  • Ultrasonic welding undesirably adds complexity to the manufacturing process and changes the geometry requirements of the components, which in turn adds material, and also prohibits the complete separation of the parts without damaging the mask.
  • Certain embodiments of the present invention therefore provide a strap assembly for securing a respirator mask to a wearer wherein the strap assembly is locatable behind the head of a wearer and configured to allow the wearer to adjust a length of a strap from behind their head.
  • the strap assembly allows the wearer to locate loose end regions of the harness straps behind their head after fitting the mask, and optionally adjusting the harness straps for optimum security and comfort, to prevent excess strap material undesirably falling or hanging into the wearer’s line of sight during use.
  • the strap assembly according to certain embodiments of the present invention eliminates the need for ultrasonic welding during manufacture and allows the components making up the assembly to be separable for efficient mask maintenance, cleaning and component recycling.

Landscapes

  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Pulmonology (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Business, Economics & Management (AREA)
  • Emergency Management (AREA)
  • Respiratory Apparatuses And Protective Means (AREA)

Abstract

La présente application concerne un ensemble sangle (700) pour fixer un masque respiratoire à un porteur, comprenant un élément de couplage allongé (702) pour coupler ensemble des régions d'extrémité libre d'une paire de sangles (302, 303) s'étendant chacune à partir d'un côté opposé d'un corps de masque ; et un élément de mise en prise (704) monté de manière amovible sur l'élément de couplage pour venir en prise avec un côté arrière de la tête ou du cou d'un porteur, des régions d'extrémité opposées de l'élément de couplage étant chacune configurées pour saisir de manière réglable une sangle respective parmi les sangles pour fixer le masque au porteur.
PCT/GB2023/050235 2022-02-10 2023-02-02 Masque WO2023152471A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB2201746.1A GB2615550A (en) 2022-02-10 2022-02-10 A mask
GB2201746.1 2022-02-10

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2023152471A1 true WO2023152471A1 (fr) 2023-08-17

Family

ID=80820995

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/GB2023/050235 WO2023152471A1 (fr) 2022-02-10 2023-02-02 Masque

Country Status (2)

Country Link
GB (1) GB2615550A (fr)
WO (1) WO2023152471A1 (fr)

Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20100000539A1 (en) * 2005-06-17 2010-01-07 Brian Woodard System and Method for Securing a Gas Delivery Mask Onto a Subject's Head
US9241542B2 (en) * 2013-11-11 2016-01-26 Shine Ball Enterprise Co., Ltd. Buckle
EP3470102A1 (fr) * 2010-10-08 2019-04-17 ResMed Limited Masque nasal non gênant
US20190269183A1 (en) * 2016-11-11 2019-09-05 Honeywell International Inc. Strap for face mask having multiple configurations
WO2021247100A1 (fr) * 2020-06-04 2021-12-09 Grove Biomedical LLC Appareil de protection respiratoire

Family Cites Families (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
KR102073783B1 (ko) * 2015-08-20 2020-02-05 쓰리엠 이노베이티브 프로퍼티즈 캄파니 호흡기 마스크의 착용을 위한 해드 밴드 부재 및 이를 포함하는 헤드 크래들
CN212088220U (zh) * 2020-03-03 2020-12-08 上海超高环保科技股份有限公司 佩戴口罩的头部护垫
CN212414827U (zh) * 2020-04-21 2021-01-29 广西中医药大学第一附属医院 一种易于调节的分隔式口罩
CN212938073U (zh) * 2020-07-31 2021-04-13 常州市双马医疗器材有限公司 松紧可调的医用口罩

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20100000539A1 (en) * 2005-06-17 2010-01-07 Brian Woodard System and Method for Securing a Gas Delivery Mask Onto a Subject's Head
EP3470102A1 (fr) * 2010-10-08 2019-04-17 ResMed Limited Masque nasal non gênant
US9241542B2 (en) * 2013-11-11 2016-01-26 Shine Ball Enterprise Co., Ltd. Buckle
US20190269183A1 (en) * 2016-11-11 2019-09-05 Honeywell International Inc. Strap for face mask having multiple configurations
WO2021247100A1 (fr) * 2020-06-04 2021-12-09 Grove Biomedical LLC Appareil de protection respiratoire

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
GB2615550A (en) 2023-08-16
GB202201746D0 (en) 2022-03-30

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
JP4108929B2 (ja) 懸吊式マスク装置
CA2264874C (fr) Masque a gaz integral dote de connecteurs integres disposes dans un hublot
EP1353728B1 (fr) Respirateurs modulaires et procede de conversion desdits respirateurs
CN113749330B (zh) 口罩装置
EP2165739B1 (fr) Masque respiratoire intégral
EP2780086B1 (fr) Cartouche filtrante à enclenchement par le côté
US11491354B2 (en) Bayonet connectors suitable for connecting filter cartridges to respirators
EP3436163B1 (fr) Dispositifs d'étanchéité de respirateur à chambres multiples et procédés
US20170361134A1 (en) Breathing apparatus
JP2015506808A (ja) 呼吸用腰ベルト
AU2001266711A1 (en) Modular respirators and a method of conversion thereof
JP2015511153A (ja) 呼吸用腰ベルトのインターロックシステム
CA2449252A1 (fr) Valve d'appareil respiratoire
CN212395645U (zh) 全面罩呼吸器、口鼻罩组件和全面罩呼吸器部件套装
KR20200052218A (ko) 마스크용 배출 밸브, 이를 구비하는 마스크 및 상기 마스크의 착용부
CN105363143A (zh) 呼吸防护罩-保持件
CN112041031A (zh) 面罩过滤器保持件
WO2023152471A1 (fr) Masque
WO2023152470A1 (fr) Masque
WO2023152469A1 (fr) Masque
KR20210133018A (ko) 마스크용 가드 및 이를 포함하는 필터 교체형 마스크
JP7506403B2 (ja) 通気管路の連結機構
JP2023181122A (ja) 調節可能なフェースマスクアセンブリ及びその使用方法
CA2519452C (fr) Masque respiratoire pour l'administration d'un melange gazeux respirable
KR20220002651U (ko) 마스크밀착용 고정밴드

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 23704409

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1