Patent Publication Number: US-2022226677-A1

Title: Quick-donning and preventive wearing respiratory mask system for aircraft crew member

Description:
REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/868,078, filed on Jun. 28, 2019 and entitled QUICK-DONNING AND PREVENTIVE WEARING RESPIRATORY MASK SYSTEM FOR AIRCRAFT PILOT, the content of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The field of the invention relates to respiratory equipment for crew members of an aircraft, such as pilots, and more particularly to respiratory equipment that can be used to supply oxygen to the crew member. 
     BACKGROUND 
     During travel on an aircraft, various personnel, including but not limited to pilots, navigation officers, and other flight crew personnel, may need to wear respiratory equipment or have respiratory equipment easily accessible for certain situations to avoid or reduce hypoxia. For example, such respiratory equipment may need to be easily accessible at cruising altitudes about 41,000 feet and/or if only one pilot is present in the flight deck for cruising altitudes above 25,000 feet. Such respiratory equipment may also need to be readily accessible for various flight domain conditions and/or geographical areas (e.g., high mountains areas). 
     The commercial aviation industry has a requirement that respiratory equipment designed for crew usage must be capable of being donned in five seconds or less and with a single hand (among other requirements) to minimize or prevent hypoxia during the emergency situation. While existing masks are functionally useful, they are uncomfortable to wear for long periods of time and are not possible and/or are impractical to wear in a preventive or stand-by mode in which the user is wearing the respiratory equipment but not using the respiratory equipment to receive oxygen. 
     SUMMARY 
     The terms “invention,” “the invention,” “this invention” and “the present invention” used in this patent are intended to refer broadly to all of the subject matter of this patent and the patent claims below. Statements containing these terms should be understood not to limit the subject matter described herein or to limit the meaning or scope of the patent claims below. Embodiments of the invention covered by this patent are defined by the claims below, not this summary. This summary is a high-level overview of various aspects of the invention and introduces some of the concepts that are further described in the Detailed Description section below. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used in isolation to determine the scope of the claimed subject matter. The subject matter should be understood by reference to appropriate portions of the entire specification of this patent, any or all drawings and each claim. 
     According to certain embodiments of the present invention, a head armature for a respiratory system includes a cradle and a retention mechanism. The cradle is configured to receive a respiratory mask assembly in a stand-by position, and the retention mechanism is configured to detachably connect the respiratory mask assembly with the head armature. In certain aspects, the retention mechanism detachably connects the head armature to the respiratory mask assembly such that the respiratory mask assembly is movable from the stand-by position to a use position while connected to the head armature and such that the respiratory mask assembly is selectively detachable from the head armature in a stand-alone configuration whereby the respiratory mask assembly is disconnected from the head armature. In various embodiments, in the use position, the respiratory mask assembly is configured to provide oxygen to a user. In certain aspects, the head armature is configured to be worn on a head of the user such that the cradle is between the respiratory mask assembly and the user&#39;s head when the respiratory mask assembly is in the stand-by position. 
     In some embodiments, the cradle is configured to receive a respiratory mask of the respiratory mask assembly in the stand-by position. In various cases, the retention mechanism is configured to detachably connect the head armature to a harness of the respiratory mask assembly. In certain aspects, the retention mechanism is configured to detachably connect the head armature to at least one of an upper harness of the harness, a lower harness of the harness, or at least one spacer of the harness. In various examples, the retention mechanism includes at least one of a snap fastener, a buckle, a clip, a magnet, or hook and loop fasteners. In certain embodiments, the retention mechanism is configured to detachably connect the head armature to a respiratory mask of the respiratory mask assembly. 
     According to certain embodiments of the present invention, a quick donning respiratory system includes a head armature and a respiratory mask assembly. The head armature includes a cradle and a retention mechanism, and the respiratory mask assembly is received on the cradle in a stand-by position. In various aspects, the retention mechanism detachably connects the respiratory mask assembly with the head armature such that the respiratory mask assembly is movable from the stand-by position to a use position while connected to the head armature and such that the respiratory mask assembly is selectively detachable from the head armature to provide a stand-alone configuration whereby the respiratory mask assembly is disconnected from the head armature. In certain cases, in the use position, the respiratory mask assembly provides oxygen to a user. In some embodiments, the head armature is configured to be worn on a head of the user such that the cradle is between the respiratory mask assembly and the user&#39;s head when the respiratory mask assembly is in the stand-by position. 
     In some embodiments, the respiratory mask assembly includes a respiratory mask and a harness, and the respiratory mask is received on the cradle in the stand-by position. In certain embodiments, the retention member detachably connects the head armature with the harness of the respiratory mask assembly. In various cases, the harness includes an upper harness, a lower harness, and at least one spacer extending between the upper harness and the lower harness, and the retention member detachably connects the head armature with at least one of the upper harness, the lower harness, or the at least one spacer. 
     In certain embodiments, the retention member detachably connects the head armature with the respiratory mask. In some cases, the harness is inflatable. In various aspects, the retention mechanism includes at least one of a snap fastener, a buckle, a clip, a magnet, or hook and loop fasteners. 
     According to certain embodiments of the present invention, a quick donning respiratory system includes a head armature having a cradle and a retention mechanism. The quick donning respiratory system also includes a respiratory mask assembly having a respiratory mask and a harness. In various aspects, the respiratory mask of the respiratory mask assembly is received on the cradle in a stand-by position. The retention mechanism may detachably connect the respiratory mask assembly with the head armature at least while the respiratory mask assembly is in the stand-by position. In certain cases, in the stand-by position, the respiratory mask assembly does not provide oxygen to a user. In various embodiments, the head armature is configured to be worn on a head of the user such that the cradle is between the respiratory mask of the respiratory mask assembly and the user&#39;s head when the respiratory mask assembly is in the stand-by position. 
     In various embodiments, the retention member detachably connects the head armature with the harness of the respiratory mask assembly. In some embodiments, the harness includes an upper harness, a lower harness, and at least one spacer extending between the upper harness and the lower harness, and the retention member detachably connects the head armature with at least one of the upper harness, the lower harness, or the at least one spacer. 
     In some aspects, the retention member detachably connects the head armature with the respiratory mask. In various cases, the harness of the respiratory mask assembly is detached from the head armature. In certain cases, the retention mechanism detachably connects the respiratory mask assembly with the head armature such that the respiratory mask assembly is movable from the stand-by position to a use position while connected to the head armature and such that the respiratory mask assembly is movable to a stand-alone configuration disconnected from the head armature. In various embodiments, the retention mechanism includes at least one of a snap fastener, a buckle, a clip, a magnet, or hook and loop fasteners. 
     Various implementations described herein can include additional systems, methods, features, and advantages, which cannot necessarily be expressly disclosed herein but will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the following detailed description and accompanying drawings. It is intended that all such systems, methods, features, and advantages be included within the present disclosure and protected by the accompanying claims. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  illustrates a respiratory system including a head armature and a respiratory mask assembly according to certain embodiments of the present invention. 
         FIG. 2  illustrates the respiratory mask assembly of the respiratory system of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  illustrates a head armature of a respiratory system according to certain embodiments of the present invention. 
         FIG. 4A  illustrates a series of steps of quickly donning a respiratory mask assembly of a respiratory system in an emergency situation and positioning the respiratory mask assembly in a use position according to certain embodiments of the present invention. 
         FIG. 4B  illustrates a series of steps of preparing respiratory system and positioning the respiratory system in a stand-by position according to certain embodiments of the present invention. 
         FIG. 4C  illustrates a series of steps of moving the respiratory system from the stand-by position illustrated in  FIG. 4B  to a use position according to certain embodiments of the present invention. 
         FIG. 5  illustrates a portion of a respiratory mask assembly of a respiratory system with an example of a retention mechanism according to embodiments of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 6  illustrates a portion of a respiratory mask assembly of a respiratory system with another example of a retention mechanism according to embodiments of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 7  illustrates a piece of respiratory equipment of a respiratory system with another example of a retention mechanism according to embodiments of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 8  illustrates a piece of respiratory equipment of a respiratory system with another example of a retention mechanism according to embodiments of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 9  illustrates a piece of respiratory equipment of a respiratory system with another example of a retention mechanism according to embodiments of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 10  illustrates a portion of a head armature of a respiratory system with another example of a retention mechanism according to embodiments of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 11  illustrates a portion of a head armature of a respiratory system with another example of a retention mechanism according to embodiments of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 12  illustrates a portion of a head armature of a respiratory system with another example of a retention mechanism according to embodiments of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 13  illustrates a portion of a respiratory mask assembly of a respiratory system with another example of a retention mechanism according to embodiments of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 14  illustrates a portion of a respiratory system with another example of a retention mechanism according to embodiments of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 15  illustrates a portion of a respiratory mask assembly of a respiratory system with another example of a retention mechanism according to embodiments of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 16  illustrates a portion of a respiratory system with another example of a retention mechanism according to embodiments of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 17  illustrates a portion of a respiratory system with another example of a retention mechanism according to embodiments of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 18  illustrates a portion of a respiratory system with another example of a retention mechanism according to embodiments of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 19  illustrates a portion of a respiratory system with another example of a retention mechanism according to embodiments of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 20  illustrates a portion of a respiratory system with another example of a retention mechanism according to embodiments of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 21  illustrates a portion of a respiratory system with another example of a retention mechanism according to embodiments of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 22  illustrates a portion of a head armature of a respiratory system with another example of a retention mechanism according to embodiments of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 23  illustrates a portion of a head armature of a respiratory system with another example of a retention mechanism according to embodiments of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 24  illustrates a portion of a respiratory system with another example of a retention mechanism according to embodiments of the disclosure. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The subject matter of embodiments of the present invention is described here with specificity to meet statutory requirements, but this description is not necessarily intended to limit the scope of the claims. The claimed subject matter may be embodied in other ways, may include different elements or steps, and may be used in conjunction with other existing or future technologies. This description should not be interpreted as implying any particular order or arrangement among or between various steps or elements except when the order of individual steps or arrangement of elements is explicitly described. 
     Described herein are respiratory systems for supplying oxygen to a crew member of an aircraft. In various examples, the respiratory systems include a head armature and a respiratory mask assembly. The head armature is configured to be worn on a head of a user and includes a cradle and a retention mechanism. The respiratory mask assembly includes a mask and an inflatable harness. The retention mechanism detachably connects the respiratory mask assembly with the head armature such that the respiratory mask assembly is positionable and movable between a stowed position, a stand-by position, and a use position as desired. In the use position, a mask of the respiratory mask assembly may be positioned around the mouth and nose of the user to supply oxygen to the user. The respiratory mask assembly may be in the use position while connected to the head armature via the retention mechanism or in a stand-alone configuration whereby the respiratory mask assembly is disconnected from the head armature. In the stowed position, the respiratory mask assembly may be detached and disconnected from the head armature (via the detachable retention mechanism) and optionally may be stowed in a location separate from the head armature. In the stowed position, the respiratory mask assembly does not supply oxygen to the user. In the stand-by position, the mask of the respiratory mask assembly may be supported on the cradle of the head armature such that the cradle is between the mask and the user&#39;s head. In various aspects, the respiratory mask assembly does not provide oxygen to the user in the stand-by position. In certain aspects, the respiratory systems disclosed herein are quick donning, meaning that the user can position the respiratory mask assembly in the use position in a short amount of time from the stand-by position or from the stowed position. In some cases, the short amount of time is about five seconds or less. The respiratory system with the detachable retention mechanism that selectively connects the head armature with the respiratory mask assembly allows the respiratory system to be used in various situations or arrangements as desired while promoting the comfort and safety of the user. 
     Respiratory System 
       FIGS. 1 and 2  illustrate an example of a respiratory system  100  for a crew member of an aircraft according to various embodiments. The respiratory system  100  includes a head armature  102 , a respiratory mask assembly  104 , and at least one detachable retention mechanism  114 . In certain aspects, and as discussed in detail below, the respiratory mask assembly  104  may be used as a stand-alone quick donning mask assembly. 
     The head armature  102  is configured to be worn on the head of the user and may be a continuous or discontinuous structure with one or more portions  116 . The portions  116  may be adjustable to adjust a size of the head armature, although they need not be adjustable in other embodiments. In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 1 , the head armature  102  includes a circumferential portion  116 A and a transverse portion  116 B extending in a forward-aft direction. The head armature  102  includes a cradle  106  that may selectively receive a piece of the respiratory mask assembly  104  such as a mask  108 . In certain aspects, the head armature  102  is configured to be worn on the head of the user such that the cradle  106  is proximate to a forehead region of the user&#39;s head. In various cases, the head armature  102  may be constructed from various suitable materials as desired such that the head armature  102  is adjustable to fit various anthropometric dimensions of various users as desired. The head armature  102  may be constructed from various suitable materials such that it is comfortable for the user to wear even for long periods of time. 
       FIG. 3  illustrates another embodiment of a head armature  302  that is similar to the head armature  102  except that the head armature  302  includes the transverse portion  116 B extending in a side-to-side direction, and a cradle  306  of the head armature  302  has a different shape compared to the cradle  106  of the head armature  102 . The head armature  302  also includes an adjustment mechanism  320  such that the portions  116  can be adjusted to better conform to the anthropometric dimensions of a head  322  of a user. 
     Referring back to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the respiratory mask assembly  104  includes the mask  108  and one or more harnesses. The mask is configured to be positioned around a mouth and nose of the user in a use position and as discussed in detail below. In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 1 , the respiratory mask assembly  104  includes an upper harness  110  and a lower harness  112 , but in other embodiments, a single harness or more than two harnesses may be utilized. In various embodiments, the harnesses  110 ,  112  are inflatable and may be coupled to a pressurized gas source. The pressurized gas may be controlled to selectively inflate the harnesses  110 ,  112  to facilitate positioning of the mask  108  opposite the mouth and nose of the user when the respiratory mask assembly  104  is in the use position and supplying oxygen to the user. In various examples, an inflation of the inflatable harness(es) causes an extension of the harness(es) such that the mask  108  can be brought proximate the mouth and nose of the user. 
     In some cases, and as illustrated in  FIG. 2 , the respiratory mask assembly  104  may include one or more spacers  118  that selectively space the upper harness  110  apart from the lower harness  112 . The number of spacers  118  should not be considered limiting on the disclosure. For example, in various embodiments, the respiratory mask assembly  104  may include no (zero) spacers, one spacer  118 , two spacers  118 , three spacers  118 , four spacers  118 , more than four spacers  118 , etc. Each spacer  118  includes opposing harness-receiving portions  136  that are connected by a connecting portion  138 . In various cases, the at least one spacer  118  may be inflatable similar to the harnesses  110 ,  112 , while in other cases, the at least one spacer  118  may be fixed. In other embodiments, the at least one spacer  118  may be omitted. 
     In some embodiments, the respiratory mask assembly  104  can be used as a quick donning mask assembly without need of the head armature  102 . In other embodiments, the head armature  102  and the respiratory mask assembly  104  are detachably connected to each other via the retention mechanism  114 . As will be discussed in detail below with reference to  FIGS. 5-24 , the detachable retention mechanism  114  may be various suitable devices, mechanisms, or components for selectively attaching the head armature  102  with the respiratory mask assembly  104  while also allowing the respiratory mask assembly  104  to be disconnected and detached from the head armature  102 . In various cases, the retention mechanism  114  may support the harnesses  110 ,  112  of the respiratory mask assembly  104  such that the harnesses  110 ,  112  do not fall too low when the respiratory mask assembly  104  is in a stand-by position (discussed below). In certain embodiments, the retention mechanism  114  may be positive (e.g., a specific action is required from the user when detaching is needed) or passive (e.g., pulling the respiratory mask assembly  104  will detach it without requiring any additional or specific action). In some embodiments, the passive retention mechanism  114  may have a holding strength that is sufficient to counteract the weight of the harnesses  110 ,  112  and/or the force generated by the inflation of the harnesses  110 ,  112 . In other words, the passive retention mechanism  114  does not independently become detached without action by the user and instead requires the user to pull on the respiratory mask assembly  10  to detach it. 
     In some cases, the retention mechanism  114  has a first component on the head armature  102  and a second, complimentary component on the respiratory mask assembly  104  that selectively engages the first component. The retention mechanism  114  may be at various locations as desired on each of the head armature  102  and the respiratory mask assembly  104 . In some cases, the location of the retention mechanism  114  may be adjustable to suit the shape of the user&#39;s head or provide other comfort if needed. As one example, the retention mechanism  114  may be on the cradle  106  and/or one or more portions  116  of the head armature  102 . As another example, the retention mechanism  114  may be on the mask  108 , the upper harness  110 , the lower harness  112 , and/or one or more of the at least one spacer  118  of the respiratory mask assembly  104 . In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 1 , the retention mechanism  114  is a snap component  124  provided on the cradle  106  that selectively engages a complimentary component (not visible) on the mask  108 . As used herein, complimentary components are those having the necessary structure, attachment mechanism, etc. such that the two components can be connected together. A male snap component and a female snap component are a non-limiting example of complimentary components. Other non-limiting examples of complimentary components include, but are not limited to, hook fasteners and loop fasteners, buckles and buckle apertures, magnets with opposite polarities, etc. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 4A-C , the detachable retention mechanism  114  allows the head armature  102  and the respiratory mask assembly  104  to be attached or detached as desired and such that the head armature  102  can be positionable in a stowed position ( FIG. 4A ), a stand-by position ( FIG. 4B ), a first use position ( FIG. 4A ), and a second use position ( FIG. 4C ). In  FIG. 4A , the head armature  102  is not used (i.e., it is left in a stowed position) and the respiratory mask assembly  104  is used as a stand-alone, quick-donning mask (i.e., without the head armature  102 ) with the respiratory mask assembly  104  over the mouth and nose of the user. In  FIG. 4B , the head armature  104  is used in combination with the respiratory mask assembly  104  in order to position the respiratory mask assembly in a stand-by or preventive use position. In  FIG. 4C , both the head armature  104  and the respiratory mask assembly  104  are used, initially in the stand-by position and then in the second use position with the respiratory mask assembly  104  over the mouth and nose of the user. 
     Referring to  FIG. 4A , in some embodiments, the respiratory system  100  may be moved from the stowed position to a first use position. Step  1  of  FIG. 4A  illustrates an example of the respiratory system  100  in a stowed position and a user  422  in a waiting situation. In some cases, in the stowed position and/or during the waiting situation, the head armature  102  is optionally detached from the respiratory mask assembly  104 . In the example illustrated in Step  1  of  FIG. 4A , the respiratory mask assembly  104  may be in a stowage box  403  or other suitable location, and the head armature  102  may not be placed over a head of the user  422 . In other examples, the head armature  102  and the respiratory mask assembly  104  may be stowed together and/or attached to one another. Step  2  of  FIG. 4A  illustrates the start of an emergency situation requiring the quick donning of the respiratory mask assembly  104  (e.g., in five seconds or less and with one hand). In this step, the user  422  grabs only the respiratory mask assembly  104 , and in Step  3 , the user  422  places the respiratory mask assembly  104  over his head without assembling the respiratory mask assembly  104  with the head armature  102 . Step  4  of  FIG. 4A  illustrates the respiratory mask assembly  104  in the first use position in which the mask  108  is positioned over the nose and mouth of the user  422  to protect the user  422  and without being attached to the head armature  102 . 
       FIG. 4B  illustrates an example of moving the respiratory system  100  from the stowed position to the stand-by position. Similar to Step  1  of  FIG. 4A , Step  1  of  FIG. 4B  illustrates the respiratory system  100  in the stowed position and the user  422  in the waiting situation. In Step  2  of  FIG. 4B , the user  422  is not in an emergency situation and may prepare the respiratory system  100  for preventive wearing. As illustrated in Step  2  of  FIG. 4B , in this step, the user  422  removes both the head armature  102  and the respiratory mask assembly  104  from their stowage locations. In Step  3  of  FIG. 4B , the user  422  attaches the respiratory mask assembly  104  to the head armature  102  via the retention mechanisms. In Step  4  of  FIG. 4B , the user  422  places the assembled head armature  102  and respiratory mask assembly  104  over his head, and once the assembly is placed over the head of the user  422 , the respiratory system  100  is in the stand-by position. The stand-by position does not require any modification to the respiratory mask assembly  104 , and the stand-by position includes at least the mask  108  placed over the cradle  106  located on the head armature  102 . The stand-by position allows for preventive wearing of the respiratory system  100  such that upon being needed, the user  422  can quickly move the mask  108  from the stand-by position to the second use position (discussed below with reference to  FIG. 4C ). In certain aspects, the head armature  102  allows for the user  422  to comfortably wear the respiratory system  100  in the stand-by position for long periods of time (e.g., for a complete duration of a flight). 
       FIG. 4C  illustrates an example of moving the respiratory system  100  from the stand-by position to the second use position. Step  1  of  FIG. 4C  is similar to Step  4  of  FIG. 4B  and illustrates the respiratory system  100  in the stand-by position. In Step  2  of  FIG. 4C , if an emergency situation occurs, the user  422  pulls down the mask  108  from the head armature  102  in a top down move. In various cases, Step  2  includes inflation of the harness(es) of the respiratory mask assembly  104 . In Step  3  of  FIG. 4C , the mask  108  is in the second use position and secured in place over the mouth and nose of the user  422 . The second use position illustrated in Step  3  of  FIG. 4C  provides the same protection level as in Step  4  of  FIG. 4A . The difference between the first use position and the second use position is that, in the first use position, the mask  108  is placed over the mouth and nose of the user  422  without the user  422  wearing the head armature  102 , and, in the second use position, the mask  108  is placed over the mouth and nose of the user  422  while the user  422  is wearing the head armature  102 . Moreover, in the first use position, the respiratory mask assembly  104  is detached from the head armature  102 , and, in the second use position, the respiratory mask assembly  104  may be attached to or detached from the head armature  102 . After use, the respiratory mask assembly  104  may be optionally detached from the head armature  102  (if not already detached) in order to return the respiratory system  100  to the stowed position with the respiratory mask assembly  104  and head armature  102  stowed separately. 
     Retention Mechanisms 
       FIGS. 5-24  illustrate various non-limiting examples of retention mechanisms that may be utilized to selectively attach a head armature with a respiratory mask assembly of a respiratory system. In figures where a single retention mechanism is illustrated, it will be appreciated that more than one retention mechanism may be provided on the head armature or respiratory mask assembly illustrated in the particular figure. It will further be appreciated that a complimentary component may be provided on the respiratory mask assembly or head armature even though such components may not be illustrated. Moreover, aspects or features of one embodiment may be included in conjunction with or in place of features illustrated in other embodiments. 
       FIGS. 5-14  illustrate examples where the retention mechanism  114  includes one or more of the snap components  124 . In these examples, the snap components  124  may form an engagement such that the retention mechanism  114  is positive or passive. As discussed in detail below, when the retention mechanism includes one or more snap components  124 , the snap components may be provided at various locations on the head armature and/or the respiratory mask assembly as desired. Moreover, where a plurality of snap components  124  are provided, the snap components  124  may be provided with different sizes and/or other identifying features to facilitate alignment and positioning of the head armature relative to the respiratory mask assembly when assembled. 
       FIG. 5  illustrates an example where the retention mechanism  114  includes the snap component  124  on a support  526  that is provided on the connecting portion  138  of the at least one spacer  118  of the respiratory mask assembly  104 . In the example of  FIG. 5 , the support  526  may be adjustable in a lateral direction (represented by arrows  528 ) and/or may be rotatable about the at least one spacer  118  (represented by arrow  530 ) such that the position of the snap component  124  is adjustable. In certain embodiments, the support  526  may be constructed from various suitable materials such as fabric or soft silicon rubber to minimize hard pressure points against the user&#39;s head, particularly when the respiratory mask assembly is used without the head armature. 
       FIG. 6  illustrates an example where the retention mechanism  114  includes the snap component  124  on a support  626  that is substantially similar to the support  526  except that the support  626  is connected to at least two spacers  118  of the respiratory mask assembly  104 . In the example illustrated, the support  626  is connected to the connecting portion  138  of the spacers  118 . In certain cases, the support  626  is vertically adjustable (represented by arrows  632 ) such that the position of the snap component  124  is adjustable. In certain cases, the snap component  124  may be placed on the support  626  such that it is midway between the spacers  118 , although in other examples the snap component  124  may be provided at various other locations on the support  626  relative to the spacers  118  as desired. 
       FIG. 7  illustrates an example of a respiratory mask assembly  704  that is substantially similar to the respiratory mask assembly  104  except that the retention mechanism  114  of the respiratory mask assembly  704  includes the snap component  124  provided directly on each spacer  718 . In the example of  FIG. 7 , the snap components  124  are provided on the connecting portions  138  of the spacers  718 . 
       FIG. 8  illustrates an example of the respiratory mask assembly  704  where the retention mechanism  114  includes the snap component  124  on a support  826  that is substantially similar to the support  626  except that the support  826  is connected to and extends between the upper harness  110  and the lower harness  112 . In this example, the support  826  may be movable along each of the upper harness  110  and the lower harness  112  to position the support  826  and snap component  124  as desired. While the embodiment of  FIG. 8  illustrates the support  826  between two spacers  118 , it may be in various other positions as desired. 
       FIG. 9  illustrates an example of a respiratory mask assembly  904  that is substantially similar to the respiratory mask assembly  104  except that the retention mechanism  114  of the respiratory mask assembly  904  includes a plurality of snap components  124  provided directly on each spacer  918 . In the example of  FIG. 9 , the snap components are provided on the harness-receiving portions  136  of the spacers  918 . 
       FIG. 10  illustrates an example of a portion of a head armature  1002  that is substantially similar to the head armature  102  except that the head armature  1002  includes the snap component  124  on the transverse portion  116 B. In the example of  FIG. 10 , the snap component  124  is vertically adjustable (represented by arrow  1040 ) relative to the head armature  1002 . 
       FIG. 11  illustrates a rear portion  116 C of a head armature  1102  that is configured to cover a portion of the user&#39;s head opposite from the cradle (not shown in  FIG. 11 ). In the example of  FIG. 11 , the retention mechanism  114  includes a plurality of the snap components  124  provided on the rear portion  116 C. In certain embodiments with a plurality of snap components  124 , a size of at least one snap component  124  may be different from a size of another snap component  124  such that the head armature and respiratory mask assembly can only be connected in a particular orientation (i.e., because mismatched snap components  124  cannot be connected together). 
       FIG. 12  illustrates a portion of another head armature  1202  according to various embodiments. Compared to the head armature  102 , the head armature  1202  includes two transverse portions  116 B and another rear portion  1216 C. Similar to the head armature  1102 , the head armature  1202  includes a plurality of the snap components  124  provided on the rear portion  1216 C. 
       FIGS. 13-17  illustrate examples where the retention mechanism  114  is a buckle system  1341  having a male component and a female component. The male component and/or the female component may be directly attached to the head armature and/or the respiratory mask assembly or may be attached via support structures. In embodiments with support structures, the support structures may include, but are not limited to, fabric straps, elastic straps, silicone frame, and/or a molded frame. Optionally, the buckle system  1341  may have one or more locking points such that the male component locks at various positions relative to the female component to provide various fits to the head as desired by the user. As illustrated in these embodiments, the buckle system  1341  may be on only one of the head armature or the respiratory mask assembly, or they may be on both the head armature and the respiratory mask assembly. In examples where the retention mechanism  114  is the buckle system  1341 , the retention mechanism may be a positive retention mechanism that requires a specific additional action to detach the head armature from the respiratory mask assembly. Such specific additional actions may include, but are not limited to, pinching and/or pressing one or both of the male component and the female component of the buckle system  1341 . It will be appreciated that while the following description makes reference to particular positions or locations of male components and female components, in other embodiments, the particular positions or locations may be swapped. 
       FIG. 13  illustrates an example of a portion of a respiratory system  1300  that includes the head armature  102 , the respiratory mask assembly  104 , and the buckle system  1341 . In the example of  FIG. 13 , the buckle system  1341  includes a male component  1342  and a female component  1344  both attached to the head armature  102 . In this example, the male component  1342  and the female component  1344  are attached to the head armature  102  via straps  1346 ,  1348 , respectively, and the male component  1342  is configured to selectively engage the female component  1344  such that portions of the harnesses  110 ,  112  are retained between the buckle system  1341  and the head armature  102 . 
       FIG. 14  illustrates an example of a portion of a respiratory system  1400  that includes the head armature  102  and the respiratory mask assembly  104 . In the example of  FIG. 14 , the buckle system  1341  includes a male component  1442  on the upper harness  110  and a female component  1444  on the circumferential portion  116 A of the head armature  102 . In this example, the male component  1442  also includes an alignment structure  1450  extending between the upper harness  110  and the lower harness  112  and that defines an alignment aperture  1452 . The female component  1444  includes an alignment panel  1454  that is selectively received within the alignment aperture  1452  to facilitate positioning and securing of the head armature  102  relative to the respiratory mask assembly  104 . 
       FIG. 15  illustrates an example of a portion of a respiratory system  1500  that includes the head armature  102  and the respiratory mask assembly  104 . In the example of  FIG. 15 , the buckle system  1341  includes a male component  1542  on the lower harness  112  and a female component  1544  on the transverse portion  116 B of the head armature  102 . 
       FIG. 16  illustrates an example of a portion of a respiratory system  1600  that includes the head armature  102  and the respiratory mask assembly  104 . The mask of the respiratory mask assembly  104  has been omitted from  FIG. 16  for clarity of the figure. In the example of  FIG. 16 , the buckle system  1341  includes a male component  1642  on the lower harness  112  and a female component  1644  on the circumferential portion  116 A of the head armature  102 . 
       FIG. 17  illustrates an example of a portion of a respiratory system  1700  that includes the head armature  102  and the respiratory mask assembly  104 . In the example of  FIG. 17 , the buckle system  1341  includes a male component  1742  on the lower harness  112  and a female component  1744  on the circumferential portion  116 A of the head armature  102 . As illustrated in  FIG. 17 , the male component  1742  includes a plurality of locking points  1756  such that the male component  1742  may lock at various positions relative to the female component  1744  to provide various fits to the head as desired by the user. While the male component  1742  is illustrated as only on one of the harnesses (i.e., the lower harness  112 ) in  FIG. 17 , in other embodiments, the male component  1742  may be on only the upper harness  110  or may extend between the upper harness  110  and the lower harness  112 . 
       FIG. 18  illustrates an example of a portion of a respiratory system  1800  that includes the head armature  102  and the respiratory mask assembly  104 . In the respiratory system  1800 , the retention mechanism  114  includes a magnetic system  1858  having a first magnet  1860 A on the head armature  102  and a second magnet  1860 B on the respiratory mask assembly  104 , although the number of magnets of the magnetic system  1858  should not be considered limiting on the disclosure. In the example illustrated, the first magnet  1860 A is provided on the circumferential portion  116 A and the second magnet  1860 B is connected to the lower harness  112 . In other examples, the first magnet  1860 A and/or the second magnet  1860 B may be provided at various other locations or otherwise connected to the head armature  102  and the respiratory mask assembly  104  as desired. In examples where the retention mechanism  114  is the magnetic system  1858 , the retention mechanism  114  may be a passive retention mechanism. 
       FIGS. 19-23  illustrate examples where the retention mechanism  114  includes a clip system  1961  having at least one clip that directly or indirectly engages the head armature or the respiratory mask assembly. As one non-limiting example, the clip system  1961  may directly engage the upper harness  110 , the lower harness  112 , and/or the circumferential portion  116 A. In examples where the retention mechanism  114  is the clip system  1961 , the retention mechanism  114  may be a passive retention mechanism or a positive retention mechanism. The clip system  1961  and components of the clip system  1961  may be provided at various locations on the head armature and/or the respiratory mask assembly as desired. 
       FIG. 19  illustrates an example of a portion of a respiratory system  1900  that includes the head armature  102  and the respiratory mask assembly  104 . In the example of  FIG. 17 , the clip system  1961  includes a clip  1962  on the head armature  102  that selectively engages a support  1964  on the respiratory mask assembly  104 . In the example illustrated, the clip  1962  is on the circumferential portion  116 A and the support  1964  extends between two spacers  118 , although in other examples, the clip  1962  and/or the support  1964  may be provided at various other locations as desired. In certain aspects, the clip  1962  is vertically adjustable (represented by arrow  1966 ) and the support  1964  is vertically adjustable (represented by arrow  1968 ). The clip  1962  and support  1964  may be adjustable via various suitable mechanisms as desired. In the example illustrated, the clip  1962  is vertically adjustable via rotation of a gear  1970  (rotation represented by arrow  1972 ), and the support  1964  is slidable along the spacers  118 . 
       FIG. 20  illustrates an example of a portion of a respiratory system  2000  that includes the head armature  102  and the respiratory mask assembly  104 . In  FIG. 20 , the upper harness  110  and the lower harness  112  are only illustrated in a sectional view and the mask has been omitted for clarity of the figures. In this example, the clip system  1961  includes a clip  2062  on the head armature  102  that directly engages the upper harness  110  and the lower harness  112 . 
       FIG. 21  illustrates an example of a portion of a respiratory system  2100  that includes the head armature  102  and the respiratory mask assembly  104 . In  FIG. 21 , the upper harness  110  and the lower harness  112  are only illustrated in a sectional view and the mask has been omitted for clarity of the figures. In this example, the clip system  1961  includes a clip  2162  on the head armature  102  that directly engages only one of the harnesses (e.g., the lower harness  112 ). 
       FIG. 22  illustrates an example of a portion of a respiratory system  2200  that includes the head armature  102  and the respiratory mask assembly  104 . In this example, the clip system  1961  is similar to that of  FIG. 21  and includes a clip  2262  on the head armature  102  that directly engages only one of the harnesses (e.g., the lower harness  112 ). In the example of  FIG. 22 , the clip  2262  also includes a pivotable lock  2274  that selectively provides further retention of the clip  2262  on the lower harness  112 . 
       FIG. 23  illustrates an example of a portion of a respiratory system  2300  that includes the head armature  102  and the respiratory mask assembly  104 . In this example, the clip system  1961  is similar to that of  FIG. 21  and includes a clip  2362  on the head armature  102  that directly engages only one of the harnesses (e.g., the lower harness  112 ). In the example of  FIG. 22 , the clip  2262  also includes a portion  2376  having a reduced dimension that selectively provides further retention of the clip  2362  on the lower harness  112 . 
       FIG. 24  illustrates an example of a portion of a respiratory system  2400  that includes the head armature  102  and the respiratory mask assembly  104 . In the respiratory system  2400 , the retention mechanism  114  includes a hook and loop fastener system  2478  having hooks (or loops)  2480  on the head armature  102  and complimentary loops (or hooks)  2482  on the respiratory mask assembly  104 . In the example illustrated, the hooks  2480  are provided on the circumferential portion  116 A of the head armature  102 , and the loops  2482  are provided on both the upper harness  110  and the lower harness  112 . In other examples, the hooks  2480  and/or the loops  2482  may be provided at various other locations or otherwise connected to the head armature  102  and the respiratory mask assembly  104  as desired. In the example illustrated, a connector  2484  connects the loops  2482  on the upper harness  110  and the lower harness  112  such that a relative positioning of the loops  2482  on the harnesses  110 ,  112  may be maintained. In other examples, the connector  2484  may be omitted. In examples where the retention mechanism  114  is the hook and loop fastener system  2478 , the retention mechanism  114  may be a passive retention mechanism. 
     Referring back to  FIGS. 4A-C , a method of using the respiratory system  100  may include using the respiratory system  100  in an emergency mode ( FIG. 4A ) or in a stand-by or preventive mode ( FIGS. 4B-C ). 
     In various examples, and referring to  FIG. 4A , using the respiratory system  100  in the emergency mode includes removing the respiratory mask assembly  104  from a stowage location (if stowed) and donning the respiratory mask assembly  104  on the head of the user  422  in the first use position. In various aspects, donning the respiratory mask assembly  104  in the first use position includes donning the respiratory mask assembly  104  without assembling the respiratory mask assembly  104  with the head armature  102 . In various aspects, donning the respiratory mask assembly  104  may be done with a single hand of the user and performed in five seconds or less. Donning the respiratory mask assembly  104  includes positioning the mask  108  of the respiratory mask assembly  104  over the mouth and nose of the user  422 . In examples where the harnesses  110 ,  112  are inflatable, the harnesses may be inflated before or after the respiratory mask assembly  104  is positioned on the head of the user  422 . The mask  108  positioned over the mouth and nose of the user  422  provides oxygen to the user  422  to prevent or minimize the risk of hypoxia. 
     In various examples, and referring to  FIGS. 4B-C , using the respiratory system  100  in the preventive mode includes removing each of the respiratory mask assembly  104  and the head armature  102  from stowage. The method includes detachably connecting the head armature  102  with the respiratory mask assembly  104  via the retention mechanism  114 . In certain cases, the head armature  102  may be detachably connected to the respiratory mask assembly  104  before the head armature  102  is positioned on the head of the user  422  or after the head armature  102  is positioned on the head of the user  422 . The method includes positioning the head armature  102  and the respiratory assembly  104  on the head of the user  422  and such that the mask  108  is in the stand-by position in which the mask  108  is positioned on the cradle  106  of the head armature  102 . When the user  422  needs a supply of oxygen, and referring to  FIG. 4C , the method includes moving the mask  108  from the stand-by position to the second use position. In some cases, moving the mask  108  from the stand-by position to the second use position includes detaching the respiratory mask assembly  104  from the head armature  102  by disengaging the retention mechanism  114 . In certain aspects, disengaging the retention mechanism  114  includes passively disengaging the retention mechanism  114  or positively disengaging the retention mechanism  114 . In various aspects, moving the respiratory mask assembly  104  to the second use position may be done with a single hand of the user and performed in five seconds or less. Moving the respiratory mask assembly  104  to the second use position includes positioning the mask  108  of the respiratory mask assembly  104  over the mouth and nose of the user  422 . In examples where the harnesses  110 ,  112  are inflatable, the harnesses may be inflated before or after the respiratory mask assembly  104  is positioned on the head of the user  422  in the second use position. The mask  108  positioned over the mouth and nose of the user  422  provides oxygen to the user  422  to prevent or minimize the risk of hypoxia. 
     Illustrations 
     A collection of exemplary embodiments are provided below, including at least some explicitly enumerated as “Illustrations” providing additional description of a variety of example embodiments in accordance with the concepts described herein. These Illustrations are not meant to be mutually exclusive, exhaustive, or restrictive; and the disclosure not limited to these examples but rather encompasses all possible modifications and variations within the scope of the issued claims and their equivalents. 
     Illustration 1. A head armature for a respiratory system, the head armature comprising: a cradle configured to receive a respiratory mask assembly in a stand-by position; and a retention mechanism configured to detachably connect the respiratory mask assembly with the head armature such that the respiratory mask assembly is movable from the stand-by position to a use position while connected to the head armature and such that the respiratory mask assembly is selectively detachable from the head armature in a stand-alone configuration whereby the respiratory mask assembly is disconnected from the head armature, wherein, in the use position, the respiratory mask assembly is configured to provide oxygen to a user, and wherein the head armature is configured to be worn on a head of the user such that the cradle is between the respiratory mask assembly and the user&#39;s head when the respiratory mask assembly is in the stand-by position. 
     Illustration 2. The head armature of any of the preceding or subsequent illustrations or combination of illustrations, wherein the cradle is configured to receive a respiratory mask of the respiratory mask assembly in the stand-by position. 
     Illustration 3. The head armature of any of the preceding or subsequent illustrations or combination of illustrations, wherein the retention mechanism is configured to detachably connect the head armature to a harness of the respiratory mask assembly. 
     Illustration 4. The head armature of any of the preceding or subsequent illustrations or combination of illustrations, wherein the retention mechanism is configured to detachably connect the head armature to at least one of an upper harness of the harness, a lower harness of the harness, or at least one spacer of the harness. 
     Illustration 5. The head armature of any of the preceding or subsequent illustrations or combination of illustrations, wherein the retention mechanism comprises at least one of a snap fastener, a buckle, a clip, a magnet, or hook and loop fasteners. 
     Illustration 6. The head armature of any of the preceding or subsequent illustrations or combination of illustrations, wherein the retention mechanism is configured to detachably connect the head armature to a respiratory mask of the respiratory mask assembly. 
     Illustration 7. A quick donning respiratory system comprising: a head armature comprising a cradle and a retention mechanism; and a respiratory mask assembly, wherein the respiratory mask assembly is received on the cradle in a stand-by position, wherein the retention mechanism detachably connects the respiratory mask assembly with the head armature such that the respiratory mask assembly is movable from the stand-by position to a use position while connected to the head armature and such that the respiratory mask assembly is selectively detachable from the head armature to provide a stand-alone configuration whereby the respiratory mask assembly is disconnected from the head armature, wherein, in the use position, the respiratory mask assembly provides oxygen to a user, and wherein the head armature is configured to be worn on a head of the user such that the cradle is between the respiratory mask assembly and the user&#39;s head when the respiratory mask assembly is in the stand-by position. 
     Illustration 8. The quick donning respiratory system of any of the preceding or subsequent illustrations or combination of illustrations, wherein the respiratory mask assembly comprises a respiratory mask and a harness, and wherein the respiratory mask is received on the cradle in the stand-by position. 
     Illustration 9. The quick donning respiratory system of any of the preceding or subsequent illustrations or combination of illustrations, wherein the retention member detachably connects the head armature with the harness of the respiratory mask assembly. 
     Illustration 10. The quick donning respiratory system of any of the preceding or subsequent illustrations or combination of illustrations, wherein the harness comprises an upper harness, a lower harness, and at least one spacer extending between the upper harness and the lower harness, and wherein the retention member detachably connects the head armature with at least one of the upper harness, the lower harness, or the at least one spacer. 
     Illustration 11. The quick donning respiratory system of any of the preceding or subsequent illustrations or combination of illustrations, wherein the retention member detachably connects the head armature with the respiratory mask. 
     Illustration 12. The quick donning respiratory system of any of the preceding or subsequent illustrations or combination of illustrations, wherein the harness is inflatable. 
     Illustration 13. The quick donning respiratory system of any of the preceding or subsequent illustrations or combination of illustrations, wherein the retention mechanism comprises at least one of a snap fastener, a buckle, a clip, a magnet, or hook and loop fasteners. 
     Illustration 14. A quick donning respiratory system comprising: a head armature comprising a cradle and a retention mechanism; and a respiratory mask assembly comprising a respiratory mask and a harness, wherein the respiratory mask of the respiratory mask assembly is received on the cradle in a stand-by position, wherein the retention mechanism detachably connects the respiratory mask assembly with the head armature at least while the respiratory mask assembly is in the stand-by position, wherein, in the stand-by position, the respiratory mask assembly does not provide oxygen to a user, and wherein the head armature is configured to be worn on a head of the user such that the cradle is between the respiratory mask of the respiratory mask assembly and the user&#39;s head when the respiratory mask assembly is in the stand-by position. 
     Illustration 15. The quick donning respiratory system of any of the preceding or subsequent illustrations or combination of illustrations, wherein the retention member detachably connects the head armature with the harness of the respiratory mask assembly. 
     Illustration 16. The quick donning respiratory system of any of the preceding or subsequent illustrations or combination of illustrations, wherein the harness comprises an upper harness, a lower harness, and at least one spacer extending between the upper harness and the lower harness, and wherein the retention member detachably connects the head armature with at least one of the upper harness, the lower harness, or the at least one spacer. 
     Illustration 17. The quick donning respiratory system of any of the preceding or subsequent illustrations or combination of illustrations, wherein the retention member detachably connects the head armature with the respiratory mask. 
     Illustration 18. The quick donning respiratory system of any of the preceding or subsequent illustrations or combination of illustrations, wherein the harness of the respiratory mask assembly is detached from the head armature. 
     Illustration 19. The quick donning respiratory system of any of the preceding or subsequent illustrations or combination of illustrations, wherein the retention mechanism detachably connects the respiratory mask assembly with the head armature such that the respiratory mask assembly is movable from the stand-by position to a use position while connected to the head armature and such that the respiratory mask assembly is movable to a stand-alone configuration disconnected from the head armature. 
     Illustration 20. The quick donning respiratory system of any of the preceding or subsequent illustrations or combination of illustrations, wherein the retention mechanism comprises at least one of a snap fastener, a buckle, a clip, a magnet, or hook and loop fasteners. 
     Different arrangements of the components depicted in the drawings or described above, as well as components and steps not shown or described are possible. Similarly, some features and sub-combinations are useful and may be employed without reference to other features and sub-combinations. Embodiments of the invention have been described for illustrative and not restrictive purposes, and alternative embodiments will become apparent to readers of this patent. Accordingly, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above or depicted in the drawings, and various embodiments and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the claims below.