Customizable cushion utilizing fitted plug inserts

A method of using a support cushion for a respiratory interface device mask, the mask having a faceplate with a peripheral contour, the cushion including a cushion body and at least two inserts, the cushion body having a cross-sectional shape similar to the mask peripheral contour, the cushion body defining a passage, the cushion body having an distal member, a sidewall, and a proximal member wherein the cushion body distal member and cushion body proximal member are maintained in a spaced relation by the cushion body sidewall, the cushion body sidewall having an inner side and an outer side, the cushion body sidewall having at least one stiffener passage with an opening, wherein the at least one stiffener passage is one of an axial stiffener passage with an opening adjacent both distal member and the proximal member, or a radial stiffener passage with an opening in one of the cushion body inner side or the cushion body outer side, the at least two inserts shaped to correspond to the at least one stiffener passage, the cushion body made from a first material having a cushion body hardness, the at least two inserts made from either the first material, or, a second material having a second hardness, the second hardness being different than the first hardness, wherein one insert may be inserted into each of the at least one stiffener passages and wherein selection of the insert as being of the first material or the second material selectively determines the localized hardness of the cushion, the method including the steps of:

• selectively inserting one insert in each at least one axial stiffener passage through the opening in one of the distal member or the proximal member, or, in at least one radial stiffener passage through the opening in one of the cushion body inner side or the cushion body outer side;
• and
• positioning the mask over the user's face.