DE10149908A1 - Device for improving inhaled and exhaled air comprises a mask-like body worn by the user on the face, and a material, substance or device arranged on the mask-like body between the body and the inlet/outlet opening in the user's face - Google Patents

Abstract

Device comprises a mask-like body worn by the user on the face and covering at least one inlet and/or outlet opening in the user's face. At least one material or substance or a device arranged on the mask-like body between the mask-like body and the inlet and/or outlet opening improves the inhaled and exhaled air for the user or for another person in the vicinity of the person wearing the mask. Independent claims are also included for the individual components of the device and for a method for producing the device. Preferred Features: At least one further sensory perception of the user and/or a person in the vicinity of the user can be improved.

Description

In the prior art, there are a variety of different ones Breathing masks known: However, these are generally characterized by that they are too uncomfortable for the wearer: with full face respirators their focus is wide due to the filter placed in front of the mouth in front of the face, which after a short time due to its high weight Wear time lead to painful cramps in the neck muscles can. To provide the necessary seal to the environment with different Face shapes and especially with beard bearers must be guaranteed these masks are fixed to the head by very tight fitting straps, what often leads to a headache, or at least to a destroyed hairstyle. The Respirators with a flow filter according to the prior art also have a very large inhalation and exhalation resistance and a very large volume of dead space on breath, which leads to a reduced oxygen supply and thus a reduced performance up to health Impairments such as shortness of breath, exhaustion or The mask wearer may experience anxiety. Forward Arranged inlet opening also have the disadvantage that the filter have to clean the most polluted ambient air because often especially when working, the generation of pollutants in the visual field of the Mask wearer lies. The known designs for breathing masks are also carried out in such a way that the exhaled air is "unpurified" by a simple check valve is released to the environment. Paper-, Fleece filter and fabric masks have the disadvantage that they are due to the relative small filter area and the moisture released with the breath quickly penetrate, d. H. become ineffective and then unable to z. B. Withhold pathogens. Odors, aerosols and pollutants are not eliminated by these masks. By the necessary pressure the masks on the face, especially in the chin area The mobility of the chin and thus the mouth is severely impaired, which leads to The consequence is that it is difficult or even impossible to understand, that Communication with the environment is severely impaired. Also facial expressions and Gestures are affected or the rudimentary ones are still present Facial expressions covered by the mask body and / or filter. Especially strong physical freedom of movement is restricted for breathing masks in which a hose connection to a stationary or to be carried by the carrier There is a filter unit.

In our time and society today, the individual does not only become direct handling of hazardous substances, but in the most varied Everyday situations of different pollutants and Inconvenience is bothered or even impaired / endangered. As well Known examples here are only the blatant smell of Frying fat, cigarette smoke, bad breath / "flag" of a conversation partner, Evaporation of fellow human beings and animals in a confined space, e.g. B. in overcrowded local transport, car exhaust and "country air". That too However, the individual often harasses or endangers his environment for example due to unpleasant smells that smell of pleasure Food and beverages, pollutants such as tobacco smoke up to Droplet infections, coughing, sneezing and the like. This often leads especially against the background of our ubiquitous sensory overload, to an interpersonal barrier, reduced communication, human rejection and intolerance to social isolation from sensitive and sensitive people, but also from "connoisseurs" like such as garlic lovers or smokers.

As can be seen from the above-mentioned prior art on breathing masks becomes, it is not possible for the individual to present himself effectively and practically health risks and dangers, but also from inconvenience of the To protect everyday life, nevertheless it is not possible for him to take responsibility for that Health and well-being of his fellow human beings in all situations wear; without having to limit yourself and your needs.

The aim of the invention presented here is an everyday protection and Irritation filter mask with exceptional wearing comfort and social To provide acceptance where not only the inhaled air is subjective and objectively with regard to health risks, for example through Air pollutants, environmental toxins, dusts, exhaust gases, smog, fog, passive smoke, Allergens such as B. pollen, mite droppings, animal hair, viruses, droplet infections for the mask wearer is significantly improved. The exhaled air is also for the Environment of the mask wearer through the elimination and rendering harmless of smells, moisture, pollutants, sources of infection and the like significantly improved.

For this purpose, the teaching according to the invention proposes a face mask in which the flow channels for the inhaled and / or exhaled air run parallel to the face and / or its surface, which are delimited by an elastic membrane lying or close to the face and a bowl-shaped mask body. By separating the flow channels for inhaled and exhaled air and / or specifying the direction of flow, both the volume of the dead space is minimized and the possibility is created to prepare inhaled and exhaled air differently. The two parts, the face shell and the outer shell, are permanently / or detachably / interchangeably connected to one another at the edge and / or by means of webs or partially flat. The air improvement medium (s) is / are arranged between the two shells and / or the (continued) air ducts ( FIG. 1, FIG. 2).

The mask is designed in such a way that it completely and / or partially symmetrically or asymmetrically covers the mouth and nose area, cheeks, chin, neck, neck, temples, forehead, ears, occiput and covering head and or the entire face. In Fig. 1, Fig. 3, Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 in this regard are illustrated some possible embodiments, said explanatory of course, but not have limiting.

The outer shell of the device is made of a to a certain degree elastic and dimensionally stable, shaping, gradually becoming softer in certain areas, preferably transparent or transparent, anti-reflective material, which allows the mask to be stretched over the largest head diameter required for fitting while ensuring a secure hold. Plastics such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene or Bioplast®, a biodegradable starch-based polymer, were particularly suitable for this. According to extensive tests, metals are suitable as shell material, in particular because of their high dimensional stability (for example impact protection), light resistance / opacity and because of their advantageous combinability with metallic catalysts for air purification. The production of a completely biodegradable / compostable shell was achieved by using wooden plates that were connected by latex bars ( Fig. 7). Shells made of rigid and / or brittle materials such as glass, ceramic, clay, synthetic (semi) precious stones, metal and less elastic / flexible plastics such as ABS (acrylic-nitrile-butadiene-styrene polymer) and Natural materials such as amber, shell, meerschaum, ivory (/ - imitation) and whalebone platelets, horn and biodegradable plastic are made on the basis of starch. Rubber, silicone, acrylic, rubber and the like can be used as the elastic component. In order to combine high wearing comfort with good shape properties and high transparency / communication suitability, several materials can also be combined to form a shell, for example clear transparent PET in the mouth area, soft latex in the edge area and thermoplastic PVC in the neck area ( Fig. 8).

The inner, facial limitation of the respiratory channels is preferably made of a highly elastic membrane. In the mouth and One or more respiratory openings are integrated into the nasal area Holes, perforation, grid, slots, mouthpiece, tube, pharynx and / or Nasal probe (s), intake manifold, bead, teether / clamp ergonomically shaped, tear-proof, highly elastic, transparent, colored, tasteful and / or odor impregnated, particularly skin and mucous membrane friendly, reinforced, can sealingly consist of the mask or another material and furthermore be provided with further substance / substance feeds can. The use of allergen free latex resulted in a very pleasant description on the cheeks, highly elastic Polyethylene film was characterized by a pleasantly cool feeling on the skin. However, the inventive teaching is not limited to the two above addressed materials. Other possible materials and Design forms are, for example, breathable textiles, dense or perforated, perforated, slotted, structured, corrugated semipermeable, moisture wicking membranes, nonwovens, nets, grids, fabrics and Composites made of synthetic or natural fibers or metal, composites, felt, paper, Foams and foams, mineral fiber materials, wool, leather, fur, Animal skins (and their imitations) and the combination of two or more Materials to optimally adapt to certain physical, environmental and situation-related requirements such as B. a facial beard, heat and / or To ensure cold or excessive sweating.

Between the two shells is / are the media for air improvement arranged, these on the shell and / or membrane as powder, grains, Fiber, paste, gel, coating, fitting, foam, wax applied or Part of these are and / or arranged and / or in the space of the respiratory channels disordered, loose, fixed, pressed, filled. To the inhaled and the it is to improve exhaled air according to the type of load advantageous, different for the inhaled or exhaled air Apply cleaning mechanisms. This is said to some Exemplary embodiments without restricting the inventive teaching are made clear: The treatment of the inhaled air proved large-area, porous, structured, regenerable, non-dusting / dusted Materials such as activated carbon, silica gel, inorganic gels, cotton wool, with cotton high particle-binding and pollutant-absorbing / hygroscopic Properties as extremely effective. Experiments with dried, agglomerated Whey protein, rice granules, curd cheese protected against spoilage, wheat gluten, Durum wheat semolina, (whole rye) meal, agar, gelatin, starch gel (also from modified starch), collagen, pretzel salt, cork, birch shavings, spruce needles, Peanut shells also showed high adsorbing properties Natural substances and foods, these being, for example, direct filling the volume or as a layer / coating in the filter space, in permeable filter bags or bags or hoses, glued in, (can be poured in, melted in. Further consideration could be given to or we have successfully carried out preliminary tests, pollutants such as catalytically oxidizing carbon monoxide to carbon dioxide, allergens and pathogens, smells, fats chemically, enzymatically and physically, for example with hard radiation, thermal, catalytic, radical, to render it harmless or at least in less dangerous / unpleasant / to transfer smelling / irritant / hazardous substances. As one The use of moss proved to be a particularly elegant method Air freshening medium. For this purpose, a relief latex membrane was used on one side coated with cotton. This layer was then covered with moss. This allowed the inhaled air to be cleaned effectively , this design was also characterized by pleasant aroma, continuous and even humidification, Oxygenation, good thermal properties, biodegradability / Compostability, attractive eye-catching design and a natural one calming well-being. Another possible variation Use of algae, mushrooms, sponges, corals, horsetail, grass, Ferns, clovers, cress, flowers and / or components of them, such as. B. rose petals, or other plant components such as roots can be considered.

All of the above were suitable for improving the exhaled air Possibilities. In addition, the exhale could be secured a fixed flow direction through one for the mask wearer harmless deodorization and / or chemical / thermal / physical Decomposition with at inhalation / ingestion / ingestion at least in increased Concentration of unpleasant / unhealthy or even toxic substances, Filter materials, aerosols, catalysts, ionizers can be improved. As illustrative examples are the effective elimination of "Onion aroma" due to the continuous addition of acetic acid and Butanol at the beginning of the exhalation channel and its subsequent adsorption at the end of the exhalation channel and the neutralization of (volatile) organic acids that come from the oral flora after enjoying sugary foods and beverages are formed with Sodium bicarbonate or crystal soda called. Likewise can especially for sensitive people who exhale through aromas, Aroma extracts, essential oils, fragrances, deodorants and Odor breaker improved and made more pleasant for the environment become.

In order to enlarge the active surface, a wavy, wrinkled, regular and / or irregular, nubbed, mushroom-shaped, microchannel-forming, toothed and / or relief and / or relief and / or multi-layered design of the surface (s) and, in particular, in the case of air improvers applied over a layer of a support material / or a multi-layered shell shape is proposed for flowed through, wherein a parallel or opposite flow direction can be configured ( FIG. 10, FIG. 11). By extending the inhalation and / or exhalation channel around the neck to the back, a particularly large active area could be achieved. In connection with the fact that mostly less heavily polluted air can be used there, a particularly high air quality could be achieved with low breathing resistance, whereby as a further advantage a better, significantly more upright posture of the mask wearer without restriction of freedom of movement was shown by suitable choice of material ( Fig. 12).

The direction of flow through the breathing channels is essentially carried out by one-way valves, flaps, membrane seals according to the prior art. They are preferably arranged so that the air improvement media are closed when not breathing ( FIG. 13, FIG. 14). This enables a significantly longer lifespan to be achieved by preventing loss of moisture, aroma and active ingredients and protecting against unwanted exposure to pollutants even during breaks. To keep the volume of the dead space low, at least one one-way flap is arranged near the mouth and nose area. Fig. 15, Fig. 16 and Fig. 17 show possible illustrative, the inventive teaching but not limiting, arrangements. In particular in the case of laminar air improvement, at least the inlet is covered / can be covered by a net, grille, mesh or a perforated plate for protection against insects, lint, leaves and the like.

The air improvement device is held / fixed in the desired position with elastic bands, cables, Velcro fasteners, adjustable straps. The design of the covering or head-enclosing area on / over a longest tendon in any plane of the head and / or neck area ( FIG. 5) allows in particular when using at least one mask material, such as latex, which holds onto the skin and / or hair and / or beard the waiver of straps. This can be supported and / or replaced by a partial or full adhesive coating / spray / gel / paste / composition on the face, preferably of the shell which is in contact with the face and / or at least in the edge and sealing area of the outer shell. For example, in the exemplary embodiment mentioned above, the best wearing comfort could be achieved with an airway to the back ( Fig. 12) with an adhesive coating in the lateral neck area. In the field of sports / leisure and work, it could also be thought of directly or indirectly on a necessary headgear z. B. Protective / or helmet, welding mask, ski goggles. Ideally, the mask itself would be made using appropriate material e.g. B. particularly impact-resistant ABS and the necessary protective and padded shape to the desired headgear. Another advantage is the significantly larger filter area. The greatest possible body coverage, ie protection and filtering, going beyond the head and neck area, could be achieved by folding, plugging, pulling out. can be achieved in twistable, "accordion" - foldable, bendable, screwable, joinable, form-fitting, magnetically or adhesively adhering single or multi-segment design.

In order to ensure proper cleaning ability and hygiene of the environmental face protector, it is proposed that the surfaces and / or filter media at least be dirt-repellent, non-fogging, electrostatically repellent, migration- and diffusion-protected and microbiologically non-waxable. This is illustrated by the example of the wooden mask ( Fig. 7) already mentioned. The wooden plates were protected with a mixture of lactic acid and silver nitrate to protect them from microbial contamination. Ceramic segments with a lotus effect surface, on the other hand, showed a high level of self-cleaning ability in connection with a microorganism-repellent surface texture. With sealing waxes that were applied to colored, painted, labeled, or designed as advertising and slogan surfaces, plastic shades, besides color brilliance, UV protection and abrasion resistance, could be used to produce a dust-repellent and dirt-repellent mask surface. To protect against microbial spoilage / infestation of the air improvement medium, the inventive teaching suggests the use of the hurdle concept, a combination of pH value change, aw value reduction, increase in ionic strength and in particular in the case of natural substances and / or foods and / or their constituents Change in the redox potential, before, of course, this does not exclude the use of antibiotics, biostatics, bacteriocides, biocides, insecticides and preservatives or protective cultures or bacteriophages as well as sterilization, pasteurization and other alternative methods of preservation such as high pressure treatment or ionizing radiation.

One or more are available to ensure functionality Pollution and pollutant content indicator (s).

The well-being of the mask wearer can be significantly increased by that the inhaled air is controlled continuously or temporally / sensory and / or if necessary and subjectively desire manual essential oils such as for example jasmine, mint, and / or flavorings and / or compositions, Gases, aerosols, dusts, plants / ingredients - extracts - preparations / compositions or subconsciously perceptible substances such as For example, pheromones can be added / supplied. Be further here for example the addition of dilute sodium hydroxide solution as an aerosol shown: The scattered light of the Measured nasal mucosa. As soon as it gets too dry, d. H. no more Protected by a shiny film of moisture, it becomes very thinned Sodium hydroxide solution added as an aerosol to the air to be inhaled. Weakness Basicity then causes a re-starting and / or increased secretion of the mucous membranes, which are again moist, smooth and fully functional are.

Through a continuous optical, mechanical or ultrasonic measurement of the Opening width of the nostrils and / or mouth and / or a measurement The blood oxygen content can be increased, deepened, flattened Breathing and increased oxygen demand can be traced back oxygen could be metered in as required, especially the Breathing rhythm can provide information about acute or latent cardiovascular or Lung diseases like asthma. By measuring the temporal and volumetric course of the respiratory flow by, for example, an am Air inlet and / or outlet attached propeller / volume Flow meter can be used for acute or permanent or temporary Breathing abnormalities a corresponding drug z. B. Nitroglycerin Aerosol in angina pectoris are inhaled.

With an acetone detector in the area of exhaled air one can already in the Acute excessive blood sugar levels are recorded at the initial stage, causing Have therapeutic measures initiated at an early stage.

A particularly elegant and extremely effective method of improving the exhaled air and the well-being-and-feeling-safe of the environmental- Face protector essentially consists in the creation and / or Development and / or reinforcement and / or release of unpleasant To prevent or at least reduce odors / taste and / or to Slow it down.

This is illustrated using three examples without restricting the inventive teaching:
Through the permanent or need-based addition of the well-known stomach-calming and digestive-stimulating caraway oil extract / extract into the mouth of the mask wearer, breathing can be significantly improved by reducing heartburn and belching. The supply takes place in a particularly advantageous manner in that at least the active substances of the cumin are applied pure, diluted, as an aerosol, as a suspension to a suitable carrier or encapsulated to the person via a mouth opening connected to the dosing unit of the facial bowl. The active substance (s) then enter the stomach and digestive system with the saliva and prevent the development of the sour, foul-smelling bad breath. It should be noted that caraway oil can be combined and supplemented with pharmacological substances and / or medication and / or other heartburn-preventing / minimizing substances.

Cocoa, and in particular cocoa shells, are known to contain active ingredients, which Streptococcus mutans, the creator of the adhesive molecule glucan (This prevents bacteria from salivating, eating and / or Be washed away) and thus pave the way for acid-forming and strongly inhibit caries-causing bacteria in the human mouth. By a continuous or intermittent supply of cocoa (shell) extract, extract, preparation, or at least the active ingredients in a suitable manner Dosage form and concentration preferably as an aerosol in the oral and pharynx to achieve the best possible distribution, the Settlement and multiplication of acid-forming bacteria in the mouth and Pharynx and its caries-causing and unpleasant smelling Formation of metabolic products such as volatile acids and stinging smelling sulfur compounds, as well as plaque and caries effectively prevent, especially after every meal and every snack and drink in between when there is no possibility of tooth brushing and proper oral hygiene and fresh breath are essential can.

By designing a mouthpiece with antibiotics, Biostatics, biocide, a bacteriocin, a protective culture and or phage solution the soaked, coated impregnated chewing pillow or Kauring can Oral and pharynx flora and indirectly also the nasal flora favorably influenced infections and diseases such as a Stink nose, the mouth rot significantly worsening and prevent grasp, whereby the exhaled air is significantly improved in smell, too can the bacterial contamination with Staphylococcus aureus of droplets, especially when sneezing and exhaling.

The overall concept of the device, it could also be EFP or Environmental Face Protector are called, for all everyday situations Following some more clarifying, explanatory, inventive Teaching, however, in no way restricting exemplary embodiments shown.

Since the mask is not only used in the case of acute air pollution and / or for short-term spontaneously desired, necessary improvement of exhaled air can be, but also over a long period of time up to hours or days, is it at least on the skin, bridge of the nose, cheeks, chin, ears, beard, Neck, areas close to the face particularly skin-friendly, (beard) designed hair-friendly. The inventive teaching suggests at least the skin and hair areas including straps, Breath canal extensions and / or other components and accessories breathable, sweat-absorbing, -neutralizing, -laxing, not linting, not dandruffing, not dragging, the skin pH adjusted, not chemically, physically, mechanically, medically, allergically executed irritating or even hazardous to health. Has turned out to be ideal For this purpose, a multi-layer soft edge padding made of polyurethane foam and a fabric made of surface-smooth fibers such as Elastan® or mercerized cotton. Between the two layers could be arranged an absorbent fleece, which as a depot for nourishing, tanning, skin-improving, calming or stimulating Creams, gels, suspensions, tinctures or solutions with antibiotic, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, therapeutic and / or well-being can serve increasing substances and active ingredients. In the areas in where the inner membrane lies against the skin over a large area was suitable especially microstructured allergen-free latex, with a corrugated Surface perpendicular to the direction of slip for a secure hold and lengthways Direction of movement, especially chewing movements and winking most comfortable to wear and sufficient freedom of movement.

It could also be thought of using the overlying layer yourself To impregnate active substances, coat, especially with those should be released quickly to the skin. So with one Chamomile extract containing moisturizer a short time after Put on a significant relief from one caused by air pollutants Redness and irritation of the skin can be ensured.

The face and neck area can also be designed without a skin-fitting membrane, in which case, for example, air separators required / used, inserted into the outer shell, glued, cast, screwed, riveted or molded / cast / drawn / spun or braided from the shell material lie on the skin ( Fig. 17). The respiratory channels could then be active with the (facial) skin (e.g. connected by trains, vibrating plate / disk with a magnetic vibrator / vibration or ultrasound generator) or passively massaging nubs, stamps, pads or lamellae on the side, an air cleaning medium is applied to the outer surface and / or shaft / foot or which itself serves to improve the air due to its surface quality or its material properties, and which contains skin-pampering substances in its hollow / porous / spongy interior or front surface which are worn over the skin contact points / surfaces of the knobs or lamellae are released to the skin and / or as fragrances to the air flowing through ( FIG. 22). Vibrating or rotating around the longitudinal axis of the knobs would also lead to a fully turbulent flow and resonance of the air in the breathing channels, with the result that active substance aerosol formation and the exchange / transfer of air-improving medium-air, especially at times of slow or non-breathing and for breathing channels with a large cross-section and therefore low breathing resistance is significantly increased. In order to ensure the permanent supply of soothing balm and to be able to vary or adapt the skin care, fragrance, type and strength of the massage to suit your personal wellbeing and desire, an easily exchangeable massage insert is proposed in the outer shell. Another way to combine varied, situation-adapted skin care with good air is to use a mask shell without a skin-fitting membrane, which essentially only rests on marginal areas and partitions on the face / head, with a glued one directly on the desired skin / hair areas to combine the suction pad ( Fig. 18). This single-layer or multi-layer pad is then preferably coated on the inside with skin / hair care substances / creams / gels, impregnated, impregnated, coated, and on the side facing away from the skin as an air improvement medium, adsorbers or aromatizers with a similarly long service life being advantageous, for example. Since the pad is disposed of separately or composted after being worn, it could also be designed as a blackhead-pulling or epilating or peeling, skin-flaking face pad.

In addition, by using the Cooling or circulation-enhancing adapted to ambient temperatures / skin-warming substances a pleasant sensation of warmth of the Mask wearer can be achieved. This could be done by heating (preferably in the mask integrated heating wires, coils, channels, peeling elements, one (infrared) absorbing surface) or by cooling (preferably flow-through cooling channels in which water is evaporated by the breathing air, or an entrained gas / aerosol is expanded / evaporated, the used gas / aerosol itself serves to improve air) supports / be improved. The heat absorption from the environment could be continued through an infrared and UV reflecting surface, coating, layer and further reduce insulation.

Around the mask wearer himself (along with contaminated air) and his through stressed behavior of people at risk of disturbing, stressful and disease-causing environmental influences that are due to electromagnetic / magnetic / ionic / radiation-related disturbances in / in the atmosphere such as hair dryer weather or electrosmog, protect and / or thereby Complaints, nervousness, accidents, sleep problems, Lack of concentration, to alleviate or even prevent headache Environmental face protector advantageously electromagnetic shielding. For example, this can be done with a close-knit Metal mesh / grid / insert or electromagnetic-adsorbing coating the mask, preferably a version that encloses the entire head, can be achieved. Complementary / alternative to this is the "recording" of one desired, current environmental disturbances and personal, / Adapted to mood and / or situation dependent electromagnetic Wave / magnetic field composition. This can be achieved, for example with conductor coils incorporated into the mask, at least in frequency and amplitude of controllable and controllable electrical currents become. By arranging more than two coils in different levels to each other can also on the Vibration level can be influenced, d. H. there can be vibrations amplified, superimposed and / or amplified in every plane, amplitude and frequency weakened, i.e. changed according to the respective needs.

In order to ensure the permanent portability of the device without any interruptions necessary for eating or drinking, it is proposed to integrate a closable opening, flap, iris diaphragm, thrust, bellows bulge in the mouth area ( FIG. 19). In order to free the mask wearer from the annoying manual opening and closing of the mask and to ensure permanent air and respiratory protection that is only interrupted for a short time, this is advantageously carried out with a control device containing a metal detector or an optical camera (image-recognizing), that is, for example, opened and straight held open as long as a spoon or fork (made of metal) is in front of or in the mouth. From the image-recognizing unit, for example, a drinking glass or based on specific wavelengths of food ingredients or colorants, e.g. B. carotenoids, food and beverages, especially fast food. For beverages, a flexible line, which can be guided through the bowl, can be guided telescopically from the lips and tongue to the mouth, or can be turned away or bent ( FIG. 20) is proposed ( FIG. 20), which has at least two ends at one end or to prevent unwanted leakage. are not closed until active suction (stronger than the inhalation suction) or biting valve / closure / diaphragm flap valve. At the outer end is a hygienic, non-dripping, closable / screwable / pluggable, also one-hand operated, tight adapter, a connection option to bottles, beverage cans, cartons, bags or other containers such as carried on the back ("cyclist") Given sports bottle. In the case of a mask design against atomic, biological or chemical warfare agents and toxins, the high-density adapter is additionally hermetically protected and can be sterilized and decontaminated.

To ensure the usability and usability of the EFP in all Life situations may include the acoustic perception of the environment and that are perceived by the environment not to be neglected. The inventive teaching suggests this, at least in the mask (outer shell) an area with good voice transmission and amplification properties to integrate. For example, a cardboard speaker membrane, the z. B. by a suitable impregnation with an aroma at least one Part of the entire individual air improvement tasks. at Mask shapes that cover the side of the head and / or ears, could at least be passive noise protection in the ear area to reduce particularly large volumes and or unpleasant frequencies / ranges ("Sound valve") can be integrated or attached. Beyond that also electronic voice and sound transmission, e.g. B. microphone and Speakers, adapt / integrate, so that the mask not only, for example enables telephoning, but the (mobile) phone itself is or performs essential functions of it. With characteristic Respiratory abnormalities, see o. could be medical as quickly as possible Help can be obtained, which then has the most current data on the state of the Organism of the mask wearer would be informed.

In the case of a soundproof version, this could be done by electronic forming the language with regard to, for example, voice position, volume and clarity or filtering out unwanted noise, e.g. B. cough, smacking and The same in addition to the olfactory perception of the environment acoustic for the mask wearer, in the opposite case also for the Environment of the mask wearer will be significantly more pleasant.

Since glasses and contact lens wearers often suffer from poor air quality, should not only optical glasses on or in the air improvement mask, Sunglasses and visual aids can be adaptable. That would be advantageous Design of at least the eye area of the face covering Breathing masks as "optically cut glasses" and / or depending on the Luminous intensity self-darkening, anti-reflective, non-fogging, scratch-resistant, against UV (A; B; C) radiation protective, anti-reflective, with sunshade, especially on Bridge of the nose and lower limbs to minimize dazzling matt and dark colored. The mask could also be designed in this way that optical devices and / or apparatus, such as cameras, Night vision devices and residual light amplifiers, magnifying glasses, binoculars, can be integrated / adaptable or at least usable without restriction. By a visual input of images and / or films in the viewing area or in Connection to a TV, display, in a cinema or concert hall could mask, especially by receiving data on the visual image / Film / Spot / Slogan and their processing / implementation to acoustic, thermal, haptic recordings and the release and generation of Aroma, fragrance and / or air quality designed to match the image / film / scene become. The particular advantage would be that the temporal relationship due to the small air volume to be conditioned, very precisely coordinated and can neither be bothered by the smelling film scenes nor subsequent scenes / pictures or the associated scents are falsified, since the conditioned inhalation air without mixing with the exhalation air and as such is dearomatized again.

Another embodiment of the environmental face protector is one Welcome mask. Because one goal of wearing is pleasant perception as well as the likeable is perceived, can wear a mask approach other people without fear of contact. To do this To support and promote, it is proposed to use the mask with contact or Short-range detection sensors and / or image-recognizing units equip to others, coded, marked, with certain messages programmed, known, unknown, masks (carriers) or Recognize / distinguish faces / people. Through the contact could then for example an acoustic and / or optical signal, lighting up, symbolic blushing, waving flags, LED display, moving text, with Information transmitted or to be transmitted, welcome text and the like or even opening the mouth areas to kiss become.

Due to the ability to approach people directly the mask is also particularly useful for bringing products and Personal advertising services such that the mask as Advertising space printed, painted, labeled, embossed, in (outside) shape / outline / Surface / material depicted / modeled characteristic symbol / Emblem executed or with one or more of the above. visual / imaging options and / or with acoustic Support / deposit is provided. To the advertising message Giving unique emphasis could at least exhale the air permanently and / or intermittently product-specific and / or performance-flavored and / or conditioned, e.g. B. with the Roasted aroma of fresh coffee beans when advertising a new trendy cafe or with a pure sea breeze when promoting a vacation by the sea.

To improve personal well-being, it is suggested that To provide the mask with an aroma flash. This is essentially one Dosing unit / atomizer, rigid / flexible, refillable or refillable or interchangeable, adaptable placed in the filter space for one or more Aromas (together or separately), fragrances, scents and Compositions, plant extracts / components, pharmaceuticals or biologically active substances. The feeder for in and or Exhaled flow is carried out manually with the hand, lips, tongue, (chewing) Movement actuated or at least permanently for a certain period of time or repeated so that the desired substances are not or only imperceptibly the air improvement medium (s) are absorbed / decomposed, with a suitable arrangement also undesirable Accompanying substances (e.g. allergens, irritants, technical auxiliaries) are removed can. For clarification, let's take the air flow of the inhaled air along it Flow path described: Entry into the respiratory channel - removal of dust and odor adsorption - oxygenation and catalytic Carbon monoxide oxidation - Aromaflash (solvent extract from Jasmine flowers) - removal of any solvent residues through a lipophilic adsorbent. By enriching the (Starting) aromas with individual substances in type and quantity depending on Adsorption behavior of the adsorbent used with respect to individual substances contained in the aroma can also be used after Traversing the mask typical characteristic, nature identical, desired aroma profile can be guaranteed. For example, by a spray atomizer with invigorating substances (e.g. mint and caffeine) Wake-up and concentration-increasing mask are provided. Also could be thought of including the above acoustic and / or visual, electromagnetic, haptic effects / recordings or a programmed, -barbare, controlled, regulated, also by others Location, location, mask of the transferred process on request or automatically (according to Time of day, environmental influences, personal well-being, physical condition z. B. Recognize a state of stress by measuring skin resistance) Falling asleep, calming, revitalizing, concentrating, feeling good or Play meditation program.

In order to enable wearers of the breathing mask to enjoy tobacco smoke and neither to bother nor to endanger their environment, it is proposed that an integrated, integrable / adaptable / in / on / on the area of the inhalation channel or better a burn / glow or a smoldering chamber for tobacco products such as cigarettes, cigars, tobacco rolls or other shaped or loose tobacco ( FIG. 21). It is advantageously hermetically sealed or only connected to the environment by a connection to the inhalation channel and filter (s) which is sealed to the environment. When removing from the mask, the two connection pieces (on mask and smoke chamber) should be closed or at least lockable. The inhalation channel is preferably partitioned between the mouth and nose by a separator / (switchable) valve / passage, so that, for example, tobacco smoke can be drawn in through the mouth (with the typical draft resistance) and blown out through the mouth and / or nose according to smoking habits. The smoke chamber is preferably connected to the oral cavity via a manually switchable valve, the switch mechanism being able to completely or partially close the inhalation valve for fresh air when it is opened (while the smoke is being drawn in). In this way, the smoker receives "pure" (or specifically cleaned in the inhalation area / smoke chamber / connection) tobacco smoke or a mixture of tobacco smoke and fresh air and only normal air when breathing normally. To prevent excessive health risks for the smoker, the connection between the smoke chamber and the respiratory channel can preferably be designed in such a way that an (automatic) limiter / lock opens depending on the above-mentioned breathing or circulatory parameters, asthma noise or the blood oxygen / carbon monoxide / carbon dioxide content "Fresh air" switches. It could also be thought about the number and volume of cigarette trains per unit time z. B. 1 cigarette of 6 puffs of 1 liter each. The smoke chamber itself should be operated with one hand, provided with an internal ignition and extinguishing device, and the design should be adapted to the mask design. To further prevent health risks, the use of non-toxic nicotine / cigarette or tobacco smoke substitutes could also be considered. In connection with the purification of the exhaled air, this mask version is a way to "enjoy" tobacco smoke and not to bother or even endanger the people in any way.

For people with a need for skin tan, this device could UV-A and / or UV-B and / or UV-C rays are also permeable be executed.

The structure of the invention will be based on another example (self-holding Half face mask without strap, with skin-friendly coated Latex membrane and the air conditioning media activated carbon adsorber gel and Aromagel) are made clear, it being taken for granted, that here only one possible, optimized for a specific purpose Embodiment is described, the none with regard to the inventive teaching Represents limitations.

mask making outer shell

A 1.25 mm thick PET hard film (transparent, colorless, food safe, was about 1 cm around the mouth and nose and about 0.5 cm in the cheek area padded thermoplastic molded at about 120 ° C, the used Sewing pattern for a face cover delimited by the root of the nose, lower Eyelids, ears and chin was laid out. Like a series of tests for Showed comfort (weight of the mask, center of gravity, breathing resistance), this configuration of the breathing channel creates an optimal ratio found between the lowest (weight) load and breathing resistance and greatest possible air purification and aromatization effect.

latex membrane

A thin layer of liquid latex suspension covering the same area as the outer shell was applied to a positive face plastic without padding, so that after hardening an approximately 0.5 mm thin highly elastic membrane was created, with an opening in front of the nostrils and in front were spared from the mouth. A 1 cm wide, 2 mm thick latex strip and four membrane valves perpendicular to it were glued to the membrane with the latex suspension ( FIG. 23). The breathing channels defined in this way were coated approximately 1 mm thick with adsorber gel and aroma gel 1 (inhalation channel) and air improvement aroma gel 2 (exhalation channel). The outer shell was also covered with 1 mm adsorber gel to coincide with the inhalation channel. A temperature selected close to the melting range ensured that the gel surfaces were corrugated with a corrugated spatula and could thus be enlarged considerably. After cooling, the outer shell with latex suspension (in the edge area approx. 3 mm and on the membrane valves) was glued to the latex membrane, which is still on the positive face shape. After curing, the mask was removed from the mold and coated on the inside with smooth gel. In addition, approx. 2 cm ^{2 of} medical adhesive gel was applied in the area of the bridge of the nose and in front of the ears. This and an imperceptibly light, adjustable shape of the PET molded article resulted in a pleasant yet safe wearing comfort without an additional holding device around the ears and neck. In the exemplary embodiment shown here, a smooth feel-good mask with a relaxing effect on the skin and soul was realized, which can also be worn when lying down, especially for individual regeneration.

Base Gel

In the exemplary embodiment shown here, an agar-agar gel was used as the base gel used. For this purpose 1.5 g agar agar (commercial powder, without Additives, colorless d. H. gently dried) in 100 ml H □ O double distilled brought to the necessary swelling temperature by rapid heating and in Afterwards cooled in a water bath to 42 ° C. In addition to the the lowest possible thermal load proved to be an addition of Sodium sulfate to prevent Maillard reactions that the gel in this Execution would make undesirable brown appear as advantageous. The pH was slightly improved for texture improvement with sodium bicarbonate basic range set at pH 8. With this measure, the Significantly reduce surface moisture.

Aroma gel 1

10 g of base gel (42 ° C, liquid) were mixed with a mixture of 500 ul ethanol and glycerin and 20 µl jasmine flower extract (Primavera Life®).

Aroma gel 2

10 g of base gel (42 ° C, liquid) were mixed with a mixture of 500 ul ethanol and glycerin and 5 µl of mint (Primavera Life®) and mountain pine aroma oil added.

Adsorber gel

10 g base gel (70 ° C, liquid) were mixed with 2 g agglomerated whey powder Particles (with defined, known size distribution) and 1 g activated carbon (through Removing coloring dust from the air classifier).

Smooth gel

30 g of the base gel were mixed with 100 µl chamomile flower extract (Kamillosan®) and Add 2 ml jojoba oil.

In addition, colors, glitter, microencapsulated, emulsified substances applied to carriers and lumpy, shaped bodies be poured.

The central hygiene aspect made it seem necessary, a complete one Implement hygiene concept for manufacturing. This consisted of Essentially from a hurdle concept for the raw materials used (thermal stress due to pasteurization, hot adhesion of the gel, Ultrasonic treatment of non-heatable components, sterile filtration of liquid Components, lowering the aw value and increasing the pH value in the slightly basic area) and sterile working in a laminar flow Workbench after disinfection of the individual components and the tools and equipment used.

Claims (4)

1. Device for improving the inhalation and / or exhalation air of people, in Form of a mask-like body worn by the person on the face and at least one inhalation and / or exhalation opening in the face to the outside covers, whereby between the mask-like body and the at least an inhalation and / or exhalation opening in the face of the person to the mask-like body at least one substance or a substance or Device is arranged, which or which the inhalation or exhalation air subject-related for the person and / or environment-related for others Improved people around the person wearing the device. 2. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that at least one further sensory perception of the person wearing the device and / or be improved or subjectively more pleasant for other people in the environment can. 3. Individual components of a device according to claims 1 and 2. 4. A method for producing a device according to claims 1 and 2 or whose individual components according to claim 3.