respirator

Abstract

A respiratory mask (100) comprising a facepiece (108) including a viewing window (102) and a connection (104) for an air filtering device (106) and / or an air filtering device (106), and comprising a mask holding device (110) for gas-tight attachment of the facepiece (108) to the head of a wearer, characterized in that the facepiece (108) has an extended sealing area (112) on its outer circumference and the mask holding device (110) comprises at least one pair of band-like or strap-like tension elements (114) whose attachments (116) on the facepiece (108) form tension points (118), wherein a stiffening element (120) associated with the extended sealing area (112) extends laterally on both sides between the tension points (118) in such a way that, in intended use, a pressure acts laterally on the extended sealing area (112).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a respiratory mask for beard wearers, comprising a facepiece with a viewing window and a connection for an air filter device and / or an air filter device, as well as a mask holding device for gas-tight attachment of the facepiece to the head of a wearer.

[0002] With respiratory masks, it is particularly important to ensure a proper seal to prevent the ingress of toxic substances into the mask. A challenge has been found in guaranteeing a proper seal when the wearer has hair in the area of ​​the mask's sealing line. Facial hair, in particular, often occurs in this area, preventing a proper seal.

[0003] Respiratory protection systems that are at least partially suitable for beard wearers are known, for example, from the publications US 2024 / 0 350 839 A1, US 9 827 723 B2 and from WO 2024 / 036 413 A1.

[0004] US patent 2024 / 0350839A1 discloses an adjustable CBRN mask system with a hood and adjustment mechanism (e.g., drawstring). The hood is adjusted below the chin and around the neck to achieve a sufficient seal.

[0005] US 9,827,723 B2 describes a disposable full-face mask for a PAPR (Powered Air Purifying Respirator) system. The mask is made of transparent plastic and features a separate face seal that provides dual sealing surfaces against the forehead and face. PAPR systems seal through internal positive pressure, as this pressure reduces the ingress of contaminants despite potential leaks.

[0006] WO 2024 / 036413A1 describes a full-face respiratory protection hood with a neck seal and head support system. The neck seal is designed to create a tight seal around the wearer's neck. The hood can be opened wide with a zipper to facilitate donning. The seal is provided not only around the face but also around the neck.

[0007] The current state of the art shows that respiratory protection systems suitable, at least to a limited extent, for wearers with beards either use a protective hood or a complex positive pressure system to enable their use. A disadvantage of positive pressure systems is their complex design and high manufacturing costs. Furthermore, a positive pressure system requires a constant power supply, for example via batteries, to maintain the positive pressure. Protective hoods, on the other hand, require more material than masks and are therefore also more expensive to manufacture.

[0008] The object of the invention is therefore to provide a respiratory mask that is easy and inexpensive to manufacture and suitable for people with beards.

[0009] The respiratory mask according to the invention comprises a facepiece with a viewing window and a connection for an air filter device and / or an air filter device as well as a mask holding device for gas-tight attachment of the facepiece to the head of a wearer, wherein the facepiece has an extended sealing area on its outer circumference and the mask holding device comprises at least one pair of band-like or strap-like tension elements, the attachments of which to the facepiece form tension points, wherein a stiffening element associated with the extended sealing area runs laterally on both sides between the tension points in such a way that, in intended use, a pressure acts laterally on the extended sealing area.This type of respirator mask allows for the creation of a sealing line with minimal material usage thanks to its extended sealing area. This line runs along the outer edge of a beard area, just outside the beard growth, making it suitable for wearers with beards. It has proven particularly advantageous to incorporate a stiffening element in this area. This element prevents bulging and ensures a proper fit of the extended sealing area at the wearer's temples. Without the stiffening element, the stresses on the tensioning elements cause the extended sealing area to bulge at the temples, preventing a gas-tight seal of the respirator mask.

[0010] The stiffening element mitigates or completely prevents the tension points from moving towards each other. This further reinforces a proper gas-tight seal of the extended sealing area.

[0011] In one embodiment of the invention, band-like or belt-like tension elements are also attached to the stiffening element. This increases the lateral pressure that the stiffening element exerts on the extended sealing area during intended use.

[0012] It is advantageously provided that the extended sealing area extends essentially from one of the stiffening elements to the other along a neck region of the facepiece. This allows a single extended sealing area to be achieved with simple means.

[0013] Preferably, the extended sealing area has a groove laterally between the tension points on its outer circumference. The groove forms a recess for the wearer's ears. In normal use, the wearer's ears rest against the groove or against an ear contour of the groove. This ensures that the sealing line also extends beyond the beard area at the ears. Furthermore, such a groove allows the ears to fit properly against the respirator, thus increasing wearer comfort.

[0014] In one embodiment of the invention, the stiffening element is arc-shaped. This makes it easy to ensure that when the tension points, between which the stiffening element is mounted, are moved towards each other, a compressive force is exerted from the stiffening element onto the extended sealing area, so that the extended sealing area is pressed against the head of the support, thereby further increasing the sealing effect in this area.

[0015] Preferably, the stiffening element is integrated into the extended sealing area. Integration into the sealing area allows for a particularly effective reinforcement of the sealing effect in the temple area. Furthermore, the stiffening element is thus particularly well protected against external influences without the need for additional cladding parts.

[0016] In one embodiment of the invention, the stiffening element is applied to an outer surface of the extended sealing area. This allows for particularly simple assembly of the respirator mask. Preferably, a heat-resistant cover is also attached over the stiffening element.

[0017] It is advantageously provided that the stiffening element is elastically formed and pre-tensioned and fixed between the tension points, so that it pushes the tension points away from each other. The pre-tensioning of the stiffening element further improves the sealing effect.

[0018] Preferably, a pair of tabs is provided laterally on each facepiece, to which the tensioning elements are attached. Preferably, the tabs project from the facepiece in a direction away from the viewing window. This allows for advantageous attachment of the tensioning elements to the facepiece, as the tensioning elements are not attached directly to the sealing line of the facepiece. Furthermore, the applied tensile force of the tensioning elements is distributed evenly across the facepiece via the tabs.

[0019] In one embodiment of the invention, the longitudinal ends of the stiffening elements are attached to the tabs. This makes it particularly easy to attach the stiffening elements. For example, they can be glued to the tabs or sewn on using an eyelet.

[0020] It is advantageously provided that the neck-side tab extends at least partially over the extended sealing area on both sides. It has been found that such an arrangement is advantageous with regard to the sealing effect, since the extended sealing area in the lateral neck region is additionally pressed against the neck of the carrier by the respective lower tab.

[0021] Preferably, the neck-side tension element extends at least partially over the extended sealing area on both sides. This ensures that, if the tab does not extend over the entire width of the extended sealing area, the lower tension element further presses the area against the neck of the support to increase the sealing effect.

[0022] In one embodiment of the invention, the facial component has a Shore A hardness between 15 and 85, preferably between 20 and 80, and particularly preferably between 50 and 70. This provides a robust yet comfortable facial component. A Shore A hardness of 30 has proven effective.

[0023] In one embodiment of the invention, the extended sealing area has a Shore A hardness between 15 and 65, preferably between 20 and 60, and particularly preferably between 30 and 50. A Shore A hardness of 30 has proven effective, and a Shore A hardness of 20 has also proven effective. This provides a particularly elastic extended sealing area that adapts to the wearer and thus achieves a particularly good seal. Furthermore, such an elastic extended sealing area allows for comfortable donning of the respirator.

[0024] In particular, the extended sealing area is made of an elastomer, preferably silicone or EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber). This allows for simple and cost-effective manufacturing.

[0025] In one embodiment of the invention, the face part and the extended sealing area are formed in one piece. This allows for simple production of the face part and the extended sealing area, e.g., in a single mold.

[0026] In one embodiment of the invention, the facepiece and the extended sealing area are formed as separate mask components, the facepiece comprising a hard shell and the extended sealing area forming an elastic soft part. This allows the facepiece and the extended sealing area to be adapted separately to different requirements. Furthermore, this also enables easy replacement of the extended sealing area if it is damaged by external influences.

[0027] It is advantageously provided that at least one additional tensioning element is present, which is attached to a central frontal area of ​​the facepiece above the viewing window. This further improves the fit of the facepiece to the wearer.

[0028] Preferably, the mask retention device includes a connecting piece in which the ends of the tensioning elements facing away from the face converge. This ensures a particularly comfortable fit of the respiratory mask.

[0029] In one embodiment of the invention, additional tension elements are attached to the neck area. This further improves the gas-tight seal of the neck area against a support.

[0030] The features and combinations of features mentioned above in the description, as well as those subsequently mentioned in the figure description and / or shown in the figures alone, can be used not only in the combinations specified, but also in other combinations or on their own, without departing from the scope of the invention. Thus, embodiments that are not explicitly shown or explained in the figures, but which can be derived and generated from the explained embodiments by separate combinations of features, are also to be considered as encompassed and disclosed by the invention.

[0031] Further advantages, features, and details of the invention will become apparent from the claims, the following description of preferred embodiments, and the drawings. These show: Fig. 1 a first side view of a respiratory mask according to the invention on a carrier, Fig. 2 a front view of a respiratory mask according to the invention, Fig. 3 a perspective view of the respirator mask made of Fig. 2, and Fig. 4 a rear view of the respirator mask Fig. 2.

[0032] Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3 to Fig. Figure 4 shows a respiratory mask 100 with a facepiece 108, which includes a visor 102 and a connection 104 for an air filter unit 106. It is of course possible that a fixed air filter unit 106 is present instead of the connection 104, as shown in Fig. 3 is indicated by the dashed line. Such respiratory masks are used, for example, in firefighting.

[0033] Furthermore, the respiratory mask 100 includes a mask retention device 110 for gas-tight attachment of the facepiece 108 to the wearer's head. The mask retention device 110 laterally comprises at least one pair of strap-like tensioning elements 114, the attachments 116 of which to the facepiece 108 form tensioning points 118. The tensioning elements 114 may also be band-like. The tensioning points 118 are the points at which the tensile force of the tensioning elements 114 is introduced into the facepiece 108.

[0034] In the embodiment shown according to Fig. 2. On both sides, there are two pairs of the pulling elements 114, one pair being formed from a narrow strap, while the other pair being formed from a wider band. In Fig. 2 can also be seen that one of the tension elements 114 is attached to a neck area 122 and one of the tension elements 114 is attached with one of its ends to the two ends of a stiffening element 120.

[0035] Here, on the facial part 108, there is a pair of tabs 126 on each side, i.e., on a left and a right side, to which the tension elements 114 are attached. The tabs 126 each extend from the outer circumference of the facial part 108 in a direction away from the viewing window 102.

[0036] In the illustrated embodiments, a further tension element 114 is present, which is attached to a tab 126 on a central frontal area 128 of the face part 108. This tab 126 is thus formed centrally above the viewing window 102 on the outer circumference of the face part 108.

[0037] Furthermore, the mask holding device 110 in the illustrated embodiments has a connecting piece 130 ( Fig. 4), in which the ends of the pull elements 114 facing away from the face part 108 converge.

[0038] In this way, a type of head spider is formed. In the illustrated embodiment, the narrow, strap-like tension elements 114, which are attached to the face part 108, converge in the connecting piece 130. The tension elements 114, which are formed as wide bands and are attached to the neck area 122 and to the stiffening element 120, each have a hook-and-loop fastener. Other fastening mechanisms are possible.

[0039] By pulling on the free ends of the tension elements 114, i.e., on the ends of the tension elements 114 that face the face part 108, a tensile force is created at the tension points 118 where the tension elements 114 are attached to the face part 108, so that the face part 108 is pressed against the face or head of the wearer.

[0040] To ensure a gas-tight seal for the respiratory mask 100, even for wearers with beards, the respiratory mask 100 has an extended sealing area 112 on the outer circumference of the facepiece 108. This extended sealing area 112 is preferably made of silicone. However, it is also possible for it to be made of another elastomer, such as EPDM. Additionally, an arc-shaped stiffening element 120 is assigned laterally to the extended sealing area 112 on both sides between the tension points 118. This element runs between the tension points 118 and prevents or mitigates the movement of the tension points 118 towards each other.

[0041] The extended sealing area 112 extends essentially from one of the stiffening elements 120 to the other of the stiffening elements along a neck area 122 of the facial part 108. The extended sealing area 112 thus runs from one ear of the wearer, across the neck of the wearer, to the other ear of the wearer, and thus surrounds a beard area.

[0042] Furthermore, the extended sealing area 112 has a groove 124 on each of its outer circumference between the tension points 118. This groove 124 forms a concave recess for the wearer's ears, so that, in intended use, the wearer's ears rest comfortably and properly against the extended sealing area 112. Moreover, this creates a sealing line that lies outside any area where the wearer might have sideburns.

[0043] The tension elements 114, which are attached to the stiffening elements 120, are fastened behind the wearer's head with hook-and-loop fasteners and reinforce the lateral pressure exerted laterally by the stiffening elements 120 on the extended sealing area 112 during intended use. The tension elements 114, which are attached to the neck area 122, are also fastened with hook-and-loop fasteners and thus ensure a proper gas-tight seal of the extended sealing area 112 in the neck area 122.

[0044] In the illustrated embodiments, the stiffening element 120 is applied to an outer surface of the extended sealing area 112. However, it is also possible for the stiffening element 120 to be integrated into the extended sealing area 112.

[0045] To achieve an improved sealing effect, the stiffening elements 120 are elastically formed and pre-tensioned between the tension points 118, so that they push the tension points 118 away from each other. The longitudinal ends of the stiffening elements 120 are attached to the tension elements 114. Alternatively, the longitudinal ends of the stiffening elements 120 can also be attached to the tabs 126.

[0046] In Fig. Figure 2 shows that the neck-side tab 126 of the facepiece 108 extends at least partially over the extended sealing area 112 on both sides. Furthermore, the neck-side, i.e., lower, tension elements 114 also extend partially over the extended sealing area 112 in the neck region of the wearer on both sides. Thus, the neck-side tabs 126 and the neck-side tension elements 114 additionally press the extended sealing area 112 against the neck of the wearer.

[0047] Preferably, the facepiece 108 has a Shore A hardness between 15 and 85, while the extended sealing area 112 has a Shore A hardness between 15 and 65. In the present case, the facepiece 108 has a Shore A hardness of 30, and the extended sealing area 112 also has a Shore A hardness of 30. It is possible, for example, that the facepiece 108 and the extended sealing area 112 are two separate mask components, with the facepiece 108 comprising a hard shell, whereas the extended sealing area 112 forms an elastic soft part.

[0048] In the illustrated embodiments, the face part 108 and the extended sealing area 112 are formed in one piece. This makes it possible, for example, to manufacture them in a single silicone mold.

[0049] A respirator mask of this type (size 100) is suitable for people with beards. This will be explained in more detail below.

[0050] The extended sealing area 112, when used as intended, encloses a beard area that covers a particularly large portion of possible beards.

[0051] The temple area, next to the wearer's ears, is the only point where the sealing line of the respirator 100 intersects a potential beard or sideburn area. Therefore, the stiffening element 120 is provided in this area. The stiffening element 120 serves two purposes: firstly, it prevents the tension points 118 from moving towards each other, thus preventing the formation of a bulge in the extended sealing area 112; and secondly, it is positioned so that it presses against the extended sealing area 112 in the temple area, thereby improving the sealing effect of the respirator, especially in the area where the beard crosses the sealing line. REFERENCE MARK LIST: 100 respirator masks 102 Viewing window 104 connection 106 Air filter system 108 Facial part 110 mask holding facility 112 extended sealing range 114 Pull element 116 Fastening 118 Pulling point 120 stiffening element 122 Neck area 124 Groove 126 tab 128 central forehead area 130 connector QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] US 2024 / 0 350 839 A1 [0003, 0004] US 9 827 723 B2 [0003, 0005] WO 2024 / 036 413 A1 [0003, 0006]

Claims

[1] Respiratory mask (100) with a facepiece (108) comprising a visor (102) and a connection (104) for an air filtering device (106) and / or an air filtering device (106) and with a mask retention device (110) for gas-tight attachment of the facepiece (108) to the head of a wearer, characterized by , that the face part (108) has an extended sealing area (112) on its outer circumference and the mask holding device (110) comprises at least one pair of band-like or strap-like tension elements (114) whose attachments (116) on the face part (108) form tension points (118), wherein a stiffening element (120) associated with the extended sealing area (112) runs laterally on both sides between the tension points (118) in such a way that, in intended use, a pressure acts laterally on the extended sealing area (112). [2] Respiratory mask (100) according to claim 1, characterized by, that the stiffening element (120) mitigates or prevents the tension points (118) from moving towards each other. [3] Respiratory protective mask (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by that band-like or strap-like tension elements (114) are also attached to the stiffening element (120). [4] Respiratory protective mask (100) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by , that the extended sealing area (112) extends essentially from one of the stiffening elements (120) to the other of the stiffening elements (120) along a neck area (122) of the face part (108). [5] Respiratory mask (100) according to claim 4, characterized by , that additional pulling elements (114) are attached to the neck area (122). [6] Respiratory mask (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized by , that the extended sealing area (112) has a groove (124) laterally between the tension points (118) on its outer circumference. [7] Respiratory mask (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by , that the stiffening element (120) is formed in an arc shape. [8] Respiratory mask (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized by , that the stiffening element (120) is integrated into the extended sealing area (112). [9] Respiratory mask (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized by , that the stiffening element (120) is applied to an outer side of the extended sealing area (112). [10] Respiratory protective mask (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized by , that the stiffening element (120) is elastically formed and is prestressed and fixed between the tension points (118) so that it pushes the tension points (118) away from each other. [11] Respiratory protective mask (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized by , that on the facial part (108) there is a pair of tabs (126) on each side, to which the traction elements (114) are attached. [12] Respiratory mask (100) according to claim 11, characterized by , that the longitudinal ends of the stiffening elements (120) are attached to the tabs (126). [13] Respiratory protective mask (100) according to claim 11 or 12, characterized by , that the neck-side tab (126) extends at least partially over the extended sealing area (112) on both sides. [14] Respiratory protective mask (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized by , that the neck-side tension element (114) extends at least partially (114) over the extended sealing area (112) on both sides. [15] Respiratory protective mask (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized by , that the facial part (108) has a Shore A hardness between 15 and 85. [16] Respiratory mask (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized by , that the extended sealing area (112) has a Shore A hardness between 15 and 65. [17] Respiratory protective mask (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 16, characterized by , that the extended sealing area (112) is formed from an elastomer, preferably silicone or EPDM. [18] Respiratory protective mask (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 17, characterized by , that the facial part (108) with the extended sealing area (112) is formed in one piece. [19] Respiratory protective mask (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 17, characterized by , that the face part (108) and the extended sealing area (112) are formed as separate mask components, wherein the face part (108) comprises a hard shell and the extended sealing area (112) forms an elastic soft part. [20] Respiratory protective mask (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 19, characterized by , that at least one further of the traction elements (114) is present, which is attached to a central forehead area (128) of the facial part (108). [21] Respiratory protective mask (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 20, characterized by, that the mask holding device (110) includes a connecting piece (130) in which the ends of the pull elements (114) facing away from the face part (108) converge.

Images