Holding device for a respiratory mask

Abstract

A holding arrangement for a respiratory mask includes a strap portion having at least a portion providing a multi-layered construction including a rigid or semi-rigid material enclosed by a softer, patient contacting material. The rigid or semi-rigid material includes a flat plastic layer and the softer, patient contacting material includes a fabric layer provided between the flat plastic layer and the patient's skin and adapted to contact the patient's skin. Lateral edges of the multi-layered construction are fixed by stitching.

1 - 16 . (canceled) 
     
     
         17 . A holding arrangement for a respiratory mask, comprising:
 a strap portion having at least a portion providing a multi-layered construction including a rigid or semi-rigid material enclosed by a softer, patient contacting material, the rigid or semi-rigid material including a flat plastic layer and the softer, patient contacting material including a fabric layer provided between the flat plastic layer and the patient's skin and adapted to contact the patient's skin,   wherein lateral edges of the multi-layered construction are fixed by stitching.   
     
     
         18 . A holding arrangement according to  claim 17 , wherein the fabric layer includes a textile material layer provided on one side of the flat plastic layer and adapted to contact the patient's skin. 
     
     
         19 . A holding arrangement according to  claim 18 , wherein the softer, patient contacting material includes a fleece material layer provided on the opposite side of the flat plastic layer and adapted to face away from the patient's skin. 
     
     
         20 . A holding arrangement according to  claim 17 , wherein the strap portion includes an upper strap adapted to pass along the patient's forehead, a lower strap adapted to pass along the patient's cheek, and a rear strap adapted to descend behind the ears of the patient towards the patient's neck. 
     
     
         21 . A holding arrangement according to  claim 20 , wherein the strap portion includes upper and lower back straps adapted to cup and/or rest on the patient's occiput. 
     
     
         22 . A holding arrangement according to  claim 17 , wherein the strap portion includes a fastening portion. 
     
     
         23 . A holding arrangement according to  claim 22 , wherein the fastening portion includes hook and loop fasteners. 
     
     
         24 . A respiratory mask arrangement, comprising:
 a respiratory mask; and   the holding arrangement according to  claim 17 .   
     
     
         25 . A respiratory mask arrangement according to  claim 24 , wherein the mask includes a frame and a nasal seal provided to the frame.