Respirable mask

Abstract

A breathable mask includes a main frame, a transparent lens portion, a waterproof sealing skirt, and a breathing tube. The main frame has a lens frame, a mouth frame, and a nose frame therebetween. The waterproof sealing skirt is integrally formed with an eye skirt portion, a nose skirt portion, and a mouth skirt portion. The eye skirt portion has a skirt frame in front thereof. The transparent lens portion is waterproofly embedded in the lens frame together with the skirt frame. The nose skirt portion protrudes outward from the nose frame. A drain valve is provided between the mouth skirt portion and the mouth frame. The mouth skirt portion is adapted to be in one-way fluid communication with the outside through the drain valve and the mouth frame.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a water mask that covers the eyes, nose, and mouth, and more particularly to a lightweight, breathable snorkeling mask with excellent breathing efficiency. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, the most common way to allow users to breathe freely without holding their breath in water sports or leisure activities is to use a mask (covering the eyes and nose) with a snorkel (breathing through a mouthpiece). This method has been in use for many years, but it still requires breathing through the mouth, which is different from the habit of breathing through the nose or mouth and nose in the air. Therefore, the full-face snorkel mask (FFSM) was invented. The main feature is that the mask body 10 covers the entire face F (from eyebrows to chin, including eyes, nose and mouth), and a snorkel 11 is connected to the center of the upper part of the mask body 10, which leads into the body 10, allowing the user to breathe freely through the mouth and nose. This makes the breathing process more relaxed and does not require attention to breathing, thus greatly increasing the enjoyment of water activities. It is a significant technological improvement, as shown in Figures 1A and 1B.

[0003] However, full-face snorkeling masks 1, due to the large lens area 12, result in a larger overall product size, making them very difficult to carry. In addition, another fatal flaw is that during use, the concentration of carbon dioxide in the total inner space of the mask 10 gradually increases. At a certain point, the user is prone to unintentionally losing consciousness due to insufficient blood oxygen levels; there are numerous cases worldwide of people dying from this. To understand the reasons behind this, we must begin with some basic theories:

[0004] (a) The air we breathe contains about 21% oxygen (O2) and up to about 0.04% carbon dioxide (CO2). But many people don’t know that carbon dioxide, not oxygen, is primarily responsible for the frequency and depth of our breathing. Carbon dioxide is a very important component of the air in human lungs. An increase in carbon dioxide levels can lead to loss of consciousness, and without awareness. If this happens in water, the result is drowning.

[0005] (ii) During respiration, oxygen is consumed and metabolized, while carbon dioxide is produced by our bodies, resulting in an increase in carbon dioxide content (to approximately 4%) and a decrease in oxygen content (to approximately 16%) in the air we exhale. When we exhale, the respiratory tract is not completely emptied; a small amount of air (rich in carbon dioxide) remains in the respiratory tract. This volume of air that does not participate in gas exchange is medically termed dead space. Therefore, when we inhale again, we are actually breathing a mixture of "fresh air and carbon dioxide-rich air," which is the source of death, and we must control it to the smallest possible level for safety.

[0006] (III) Applying this theory to the FFSM, we can simulate the entire FFSM as a human respiratory system. When breathing using the breathing tube 11, the length of the airway is obviously increased, which is conceptually equivalent to increasing the volume of the so-called dead space. If this total volume is too large, the air we inhale will have a higher concentration of carbon dioxide, leading to the increased risks mentioned above. This is why the 1972 EU standard (EU standard EN 1972) strictly limits the length and diameter of breathing tubes; that is, it requires that the contents of an adult breathing tube not exceed 230 ml (150 ml for children). And this is only the volume limit of the breathing tube 11. If we now add the internal volume of the mask body 10, the volume of the dead space will double or triple, or even more, which will of course lead to a further increase in the dangerous carbon dioxide concentration.

[0007] Based on the above theory, reducing carbon dioxide concentration has become a goal pursued by serious and proactive research and development companies (well-known manufacturers). This is because they must produce safe and reliable products that not only meet EU standards and regulations but also avoid safety concerns that could lead to lawsuits and compensation claims from those who have lost their lives. These companies typically work in two directions: 1) reducing dead space volume; 2) separating the intake and exhaust of the mask, ensuring that inhaled fresh air is independent of exhaled carbon dioxide, thus reducing the chance of mixing.

[0008] To reduce dead space, some FFSMs employ the orinasal pocket design concept, isolating the oral cavity and nostrils, which are involved in breathing, within the body 10 from other areas such as the cheeks and eyes, forming two regions. The upper region is the upper volume (UV), also known as the eye pocket (EP), as shown by the hollow dotted line in Figure 2; the lower region is the lower volume (LV), also known as the orinasal pocket (OP), as shown by the bold solid line in Figure 2. This ensures that dead space is strictly controlled within the lower volume region, thereby reducing carbon dioxide concentration.

[0009] To separate intake and exhaust, some FFSMs are designed with a one-way breathing cycle, using a one-way valve to control one-way intake and one-way exhaust to prevent exhaled air from mixing with inhaled fresh air. Therefore, when inhaling, it is desirable to inhale only "fresh air" through the breathing tube 11, passing through the eye bags 14, and then through the one-way valve 15 to enter the mouth and nose bags 13 (as shown by the hollow dashed line in Figure 3); while exhaled air can only be guided from both sides of the mask body 10 to the top of the mask through a separate channel (i.e., the channel set along the outline of the frame on both sides of the body, not shown in the figure) (as shown by the solid dashed line in Figure 3), and then expelled through the breathing tube 11.

[0010] Even if the above-mentioned approach to solving the problem is correct, in reality, many products have poor gas sealing between the upper volume area (eye bags 14) and the lower volume area (mouth and nose bags 13). After a period of time, the material ages, or different face shapes or differences in the bridge of the nose make it impossible to achieve a proper gas seal between the upper and lower volume areas, and they are simply separated. If we add the volume occupied by the channel path between the mouth and nose bags 13 and the breathing tube 11 (not shown in the figure, i.e., the channel through which the solid dotted arrow in Figure 3 passes), it will undoubtedly increase the volume of dead space and return to the level of excessively high carbon dioxide concentration. Of course, adding a one-way valve to control one-way exhaust, so that the exhalation space can be reduced after deducting the eye bag 14, can make up for some of the disadvantages of excessive dead space. However, since the exhaust flow usually goes up along the two sides of the mouth and nose bag along the airway around the mask to the center of the top of the mask, and then up along the length of the breathing tube to the top of the breathing tube, whether this "one-way" exhaust control measure can go all the way to the end, or whether other one-way valves need to be set in the middle (such as the connection between the mask and the breathing tube), will increase the material cost and make the mechanism more complicated.

[0011] Current FFSM (Full Face Mask) designs typically use a full-face mirror to cover the eyes, nose, and mouth. Various isolation and ventilation mechanisms are then arranged on the inside of the mirror. Therefore, the mirror must protrude forward from the frame to maximize internal space. Consequently, the mask is positioned a certain distance from the face when worn (as shown in Figure 1B). This design limits the internal volume of the mask, making it impossible to minimize the dead space. Therefore, structural changes to full-face FFSMs are crucial. Summary of the Invention

[0012] The main objective of this invention is to provide a breathable face mask that, through structural modifications, can limit its internal volume to a very small size, thereby improving the aforementioned problems. To understand the technical concept behind this, it is necessary to first consider several theories.

[0013] The first is "negative pressure ventilation technology." In a relatively sealed room, if a unidirectional exhaust fan is installed on one wall to forcibly extract indoor air, a temporary relative vacuum (i.e., "negative pressure") will be created. If there are many holes in the windows on the other wall, outdoor air will automatically and passively flow into the zero-pressure or negative-pressure room due to the pressure imbalance between the inside and outside atmospheres. This allows indoor air to continuously circulate with outdoor air. If the exhaust fan is installed appropriately, or the temporary vacuum is more thorough, fresh outdoor air will flow "more naturally and more actively" into the room through the holes. Indoor air will only leave in the direction it was drawn out, preventing contamination of other rooms. Industrial plants use this theory to purify the air inside the plant, and medical institutions use the same principle to create negative pressure isolation wards, ensuring that highly infectious patients do not contaminate other wards or areas (such as...). Figure 4 (as shown in the block diagram)

[0014] The second is "tidal volume." Tidal volume refers to the amount of air inhaled or exhaled from the lungs during each respiratory cycle. It is measured at approximately 500 ml in a healthy adult male and approximately 400 ml in a healthy female. This is an important clinical parameter that allows for proper ventilation. When the lungs require adequate ventilation protection, the tidal volume is set at 6-8 ml / kg ideal body weight (IBW), using resting heart rate as the standard. The safe tidal volume range is defined as 6-8 ml / kg IBW, where IBW (male) = 50 kg + 2.3 x (height (inches) - 60). Using this calculation, a 185 cm tall male would have a safe tidal volume between 474 and 632 ml; while a 165 cm tall male would have a safe tidal volume between 368 and 490 ml. This is why the average safe tidal volume for a healthy adult male is clinically set at approximately 500 ml.

[0015] Based on the understanding of negative pressure ventilation technology, when wearing an FFSM (Fluidized Front-Mounted Sun Mask), a negative pressure space is formed between the mask and the face. The user's exhalation can be compared to a one-way exhaust fan. When exhalation begins, if all the air inside the mask is expelled, it will approach a transient vacuum state. At this time, the airflow will "naturally and actively" passively flow into the mask, bringing in fresh outside air and expelling unwanted carbon dioxide and dirty air from inside the mask. A natural and clean cycle with separate intake and exhaust is formed without the need for forceful inhalation. Furthermore, based on the understanding of tidal volume, if the user can expel all the air inside the mask with each exhalation, a near-vacuum transient state will be formed inside the mask, and the aforementioned clean cycle can be easily achieved. Based on this significant discovery, taking an adult male as an example, if the total volume of the mask and the breathing tube (i.e., the dead space as understood above) can be reduced to less than 500 ml, or even as low as 300-400 ml, it can ensure that the user (regardless of whether he / she is an adult male, female, or child) achieves a near 100% transient vacuum rate with each resting exhalation. In this case, the next inhalation will be effortless, and the fresh air brought in can fill the entire dead space. Through the effect of negative pressure exhaust, it will hardly mix with dirty carbon dioxide gas, thus eliminating any safety concerns.

[0016] Another objective of this invention is to provide a breakthrough structure that minimizes the internal dimensions of existing diving masks, allowing the body's boundaries to converge towards the center of the face, covering only the eyes, nose, and mouth while ensuring proper positioning and waterproofing. In other words, the orinasal pockets, which accommodate the user's nose and mouth, are separated from the frame, unlike traditional FFSMs where the entire transparent mirror 12 protrudes from the face frame 18 (refer to Figures 1A and 1B) as the basic structure at the front of the mask, with eye pockets and orinasal pockets separated internally. Because there is no wasted space, and the eye and orinasal pockets are independent, the eye pockets can be placed as close to the eyes as possible, and the orinasal pockets as close to the user's nose and mouth as possible. The dimensions in all directions (up, down, left, right, front, and back) do not need to be excessively extended, effectively reducing the overall internal volume. This solves the fundamental problem of the persistently large dead space, significantly reducing the overall weight and making it more convenient to carry. This breathable mask design allows the nasal area to be made of soft material, making it possible for users to operate nasal pressure regulation, which is something that is usually only possible with diving masks that cover the eyes and nose.

[0017] According to one aspect of the present invention, a breathable mask is provided, comprising a body and a breathing tube, wherein an interior of the breathing tube is in fluid communication with an interior of the body; the body comprises: a main frame having a lens frame and a mouth frame, extending below the lens frame and defining a nose frame together with the lens frame; the mouth frame being in fluid communication with the outside; a lens module having a transparent lens portion corresponding to the shape of the lens frame; and a waterproof sealing skirt integrally formed with an eye skirt, a nose skirt, and a mouth skirt; wherein the front of the eye skirt has a skirt frame, which is connected to the transparent lens frame. The shape of the lens part corresponds; a drain and vent valve; the transparent lens part and the skirt frame are waterproofly embedded in the frame, and the nose skirt protrudes outward from the nose frame; the drain and vent valve is sandwiched between the mouth skirt and the mouth frame, so that the mouth skirt can directly flow to the outside through the mouth frame in a one-way fluid communication; when a user wears the breathable mask, his eyes, nose and mouth are respectively housed in the eye skirt, nose skirt and mouth skirt, and the rear edge of the waterproof sealing skirt continuously runs along the outer periphery of the eyes, nose and mouth, closely adhering to the user's face. Because the internal volume of the entire mask, including the eyes, nose, and mouth area, can be significantly reduced, some additional design considerations—such as the size of the orinasal pocket, effective isolation between the upper and lower volume areas, the use of a one-way valve to control intake and exhaust flow, and strict control of the breathing tube's internal volume—become secondary issues. Since the overall internal volume of the mask has been effectively reduced, further improving intake and exhaust circulation efficiency will only enhance the overall effectiveness. Furthermore, the significantly smaller orinasal pocket allows for a substantial increase in exhalation efficiency. This means that less effort is required to exhale, and water accumulated in the mouth and nose area can be easily expelled through the drain valve. Furthermore, traditional FFSMs require four fixing points (16 and 17 in Figure 2) on both sides of the entire mask frame to secure it to the head. These points extend a head strap (not shown) that goes around the back of the head and crosses for securing, which is very cumbersome and heavy. In contrast, the design of this invention, since the main weight is in the goggles area and the weight of the mouth and nose shield is relatively low, can still use the standard goggles and nose shield size for diving. The head strap can be wrapped around the back of the head from both sides of the goggles for secure fastening, which greatly improves the convenience of carrying and using the mask and reduces the cost. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Figure 1A shows the appearance of a traditional full-face snorkeling mask.

[0019] Figure 1B is a side view of a user wearing a traditional full-face snorkeling mask.

[0020] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the upper and lower volume divisions of a traditional full-face snorkeling mask.

[0021] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the intake and exhaust paths in Figure 2.

[0022] Figure 4 This is a block concept diagram of negative pressure ventilation technology.

[0023] Figure 5A This is a front view schematic diagram of an embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 5B for Figure 5A Rear view diagram;

[0025] Figure 5C for Figure 5A and 5B A three-dimensional exploded diagram, in which only a portion of the breathing tube is shown;

[0026] Figure 5D A schematic diagram showing a user wearing the breathable mask of the present invention, wherein the breathable mask is taken from... Figure 5A 5D-5D sagittal plane profile;

[0027] Figure 5E To be taken from Figure 5A A schematic diagram of the cross-section (transverse plane) of line 5E-5E;

[0028] Figure 5F To be taken from Figure 5B A schematic diagram of the coronal plane section of line 5F-5F;

[0029] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of another embodiment of the present invention (flat-folded mirror type);

[0030] Figure 7A This refers to the pivot valve switching state during intake in this invention.

[0031] Figure 7B This refers to the pivot valve switching state during the exhalation process of this invention.

[0032] Figure 8 To be taken from Figure 5A A schematic cross-sectional view of line 8-8;

[0033] Figure 9A This is a perspective view of another embodiment of the present invention, which has a fixed chin strap;

[0034] Figure 9B and 9C This is a perspective view of another embodiment of the present invention, which has an adjustable chin strap;

[0035] Figure 10AThis is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of the present invention, which includes a chin fixing piece;

[0036] Figure 10B For along Figure 10A A schematic diagram of the sagittal plane section obtained by line 10B-10B;

[0037] Figure 11A This is a perspective view of another embodiment of the present invention, which has a chin pad;

[0038] Figure 11B This is a bottom view schematic diagram of another embodiment of the present invention, which has another form of chin pad;

[0039] Figure 11C for Figure 11A A schematic diagram of the sagittal plane cross-section;

[0040] Figure 12A is a rear view schematic diagram of the diving mask for covering the eyes and nose according to the present invention; and

[0041] Figure 12B is a schematic diagram of the sagittal plane section taken from line 12B-12B of Figure 12A.

[0042] The attached figures are labeled as follows:

[0043] 1. Face mask

[0044] 2 face masks

[0045] 3 body

[0046] 4. Breathing tube

[0047] 5. Drain and air vent valve

[0048] 6. Top

[0049] 7. Drain and air vent valve

[0050] 10 body

[0051] 11. Breathing tube

[0052] 12 lenses

[0053] 13. Mouth and nose bags

[0054] 14. Eye bags

[0055] 15 Check valve

[0056] 16 fixed points

[0057] 17 Fixed Points

[0058] 18 Face frames

[0059] 30 Main frame

[0060] 31. Eyeglass frames

[0061] 31A Folding Frame

[0062] 311 inner flange

[0063] 313 Buckle

[0064] 314 Top Component

[0065] 315 inner periphery

[0066] 32 Frame

[0067] 33. Nose frame

[0068] 321 Mask

[0069] 322 bracket

[0070] 323 bracket

[0071] 325 opening

[0072] 40 Mirror Modules

[0073] 41. Intake duct

[0074] 44. Clear Lens Section

[0075] 44A plano lens

[0076] 44B Planar section

[0077] 44C Bending section

[0078] 441 Peripheral edge

[0079] 45 Connector

[0080] 50 Waterproof Sealing Skirt

[0081] 501 trailing edge

[0082] 502 First bonding section

[0083] 503 Second bonding section

[0084] 51 Eye skirt

[0085] 511 Skirt Frame

[0086] 511A Flat-Fold Skirt Frame

[0087] 512 Soft Flange

[0088] 513 Top Component

[0089] 52. Nose skirt

[0090] 521 Voltage Stabilizer

[0091] 522 Spacing section

[0092] 524 air intake

[0093] 53. Skirt

[0094] 534 Opening

[0095] 535 waterproof ring (flat type)

[0096] 536 Waterproof Ring (Flexible Reverse Type)

[0097] 55. Eye bags

[0098] 56. Mouth and nose bags

[0099] 57 Intake one-way valve

[0100] 571 Fixing part

[0101] 572 Pivot axis

[0102] 573 Door Layout

[0103] 58 Exhaust Channel

[0104] 59. Exhaust check valve

[0105] 60 sub-frames

[0106] 61 Buckle

[0107] 62 top components

[0108] 66 casing

[0109] 71 Valve seat

[0110] 711 Multi-layer flange

[0111] 72 Valve Plate

[0112] 81 Upper fastening device

[0113] 811 headband

[0114] 812 Fixture

[0115] 82 Lower fastening device

[0116] 820 Chin Band

[0117] 823 Fastener

[0118] 824 holes

[0119] 825 Chin Band

[0120] 830 Chin Fixation Piece

[0121] 850 chin fixation plate

[0122] 851 Gasket Area

[0123] 852 Encirclement Zone

[0124] 853 Gasket Area

[0125] 831 Convex Rib

[0126] 90 Diving Mask

[0127] 91. Eyeglass frames

[0128] 92. Clear Lens Section

[0129] 93 Waterproof Sealing Skirt

[0130] 930 Double-layer waterproof ring

[0131] 931 Eye skirt

[0132] 932 Nose skirt

[0133] 933 Skirt Frame

[0134] 935 First Adhesion Section

[0135] 936 Second Adhesive Part

[0136] E User's Eyes

[0137] F User's face

[0138] N User's nose

[0139] M User's mouth

[0140] JB user's jawbone

[0141] FS finger entry area Detailed Implementation

[0142] First, it should be noted that the headband, which wraps around the user's head and is fixed to both sides of the frame, can easily obscure or interfere with some important components, thus affecting the explanation. Therefore, in addition to Figure 9A , Figure 11A and Figure 11C Except for the figures shown, all other figures are omitted.

[0143] Regarding the structure of the mask 2 of the present invention, please refer to Figure 5A first. Figure 5B and Figure 5CThe breathable mask 2 includes a main body 3 and a breathing tube 4. The breathing tube 4 is a conventional breathing tube, such as a dry breathing tube. When the upper end 6 is submerged below the water surface, no water will flow into the breathing tube 4. Only when the upper end 6 rises to the water surface can gas exchange occur with the inside of the main body 3.

[0144] The main body 3 includes a main frame 30, a lens module 40, and a waterproof sealing skirt 50. The main frame 30 and lens module 40 are preferably made of rigid materials, while the waterproof sealing skirt 50 is preferably made of a flexible, soft material to achieve good waterproofing and wearing comfort. The main frame 30 has a lens frame 31 and a mouth frame 32. The mouth frame 32 has a shield 321 and two supports 322, extending from the lower sides of the lens frame 31 and connecting to the shield 321. The shield 321 and the two supports 322 of the mouth frame 32, together with the lens frame 31, define a nose frame 33. The shield 321 of the mouth frame 32 is in fluid communication with the outside. The lens module 40 has a transparent lens portion 44, corresponding to the shape of the lens frame 31. The waterproof sealing skirt 50 is integrally formed into an eye skirt 51, a nose skirt 52, and a mouth skirt 53. The front of the eye skirt 51 has a skirt frame 511, corresponding to the shape of the transparent lens portion 44. The transparent lens portion 44 and the skirt frame 511 are waterproofly embedded in the frame 31, while the nose skirt portion 52 protrudes outward from the nose frame 33. The mouth skirt portion 53 can be unidirectionally fluid-connected to the outside through the mouth frame 32. When the user wears the breathable mask, their eyes E, nose N, and mouth M are respectively housed within the eye skirt portion 51, nose skirt portion 52, and mouth skirt portion 53, and are continuously attached to the user's face F by the rear edge 501 of the waterproof sealing skirt 50 along the outer periphery of the eyes E, nose N, and mouth M. Figure 5D As shown.

[0145] The better ones, and participate Figure 5E The main body 3 also includes a frame 60. The frame 31 has a rigid inner flange 311, and the skirt frame 511 has a corresponding soft flange 512 that overlaps and covers the inner flange 311. The outer periphery 441 of the transparent lens portion 44 overlaps and covers the soft flange 512. The sub-frame 60 overlaps and covers the outer periphery 441 of the transparent lens portion 44 and is fixedly attached to the frame 31, so that the transparent lens portion 44 and the skirt frame 511 are waterproofly embedded in the frame 31. The sub-frame 60 and the frame 31 can be connected by... Figure 5C The buckles 61 and 313 shown can be connected for detachable or permanent fixation, or any form of adhesive fixation can be used. Of course, the frame 31 and the sub-frame 60 can be a one-piece or multi-piece design, as long as a sealing and waterproof connection is achieved between them and the clear lens section 44 and the skirt frame 511. Furthermore, refer to... Figure 5B and Figure 5EThe nose skirt 52 includes a pressure stabilizing portion 521 and a spacer portion 522, separated by a section of the frame 31. The eye skirt 51, the clear lens portion 44, and the spacer portion 522 together define an eye bag 55 (i.e., the upper volume area of ​​the body 3), while the pressure stabilizing portion 521, the spacer portion 522, and the mouth skirt 53 together define an oral and nasal bag 56 (i.e., the lower volume area of ​​the body 3). An exhaust channel 58 is provided along an inner periphery 315 of the frame 31. The exhaust channel 58 is defined by an outer peripheral surface 48 of the eye skirt 51 and the clear lens portion 44. The upper end of the exhaust channel 58 is in fluid communication with the breathing tube 4, and the lower end is in fluid communication with the oral and nasal bag 56. Figure 5F To be more specific. Of course, the aforementioned exhaust channels 58 can also be two sets, located on either side of the eye skirt 51, respectively (but not limited to) through exhaust holes or one-way exhaust valves 59 provided on the spacer 522, and fluidly connected to the mouth and nose bag 56. The upper end of the exhaust channel 58 is fluidly connected to the breathing tube 4. For example, the lens module 40 further includes a connector 45, which is connected by a sleeve 66 formed by the top parts 314, 62, and 513 of the frame 31, sub-frame 60, and waterproof sealing skirt 50, respectively. Figure 5C and Figure 5D As shown. When the user inhales, the exhaust one-way valve 59 closes, and clean air enters the eye bag 55 through the air intake tube of the breathing tube 4, then enters the mouth and nose bag 56 through the air intake one-way valve 57, and finally enters the user's mouth and nose (as shown). Figure 5F (As shown by the hollow dashed line path); when the user exhales, the intake one-way valve 57 closes, and the dirty air enters the exhaust passage 58 through the exhaust one-way valve 59, and then enters the exhaust duct 42 of the breathing tube 4 (located on both sides of the intake duct 41) to be discharged (as shown by the hollow dashed line path). Figure 5F (As shown by the solid and dashed line path).

[0146] Furthermore, by Figure 5D and Figure 5E Even better, the rear edge 501 of the eye skirt portion 51 of the waterproof sealing skirt 50, that is, the shape that fits against the user's face F, is designed with a Y-shaped cross section. Furthermore, the Y-shaped mechanism that fits against the face F includes an inner first fitting portion 502 and an outer second fitting portion 503. When the mask is worn, the angle between the first fitting portion 502 and the second fitting portion 503 will elastically open and fit tightly against the surface of the face, which is equivalent to providing a second layer of waterproof protection. This second layer of waterproof protection only ends at the joint skirt portion. Not only does it provide excellent waterproof performance of the mask, but compared with the rear edge of the folded waterproof sealing skirt used in the prior art FFSM, the present invention can make the eyes E closer to the transparent lens portion 44, which undoubtedly further helps to reduce the internal space of the mask body 2 3.

[0147] If the mask body 3 of the optimal structure of the present invention is compared with existing full-face mask bodies of other commercially available brands using the same 3D computer measurement method under the same environmental conditions, with no user wearing the mask, and with the remaining volume of the eye bags / nose bags wearing the mask (using ISO standard adult male heads), the experimental data obtained will be...

[0148]

[0149] Table A

[0150]

[0151] Table B

[0152] This further demonstrates that the body 3 of this invention not only has a significantly reduced internal volume, but even when the small volume occupied by the exhaust channel within the breathing tube 4 (less than 100 ml) is added, it is already close to or even lower than the tidal volume of an average person. Therefore, regardless of the internal design of the body 3, a snorkeler can easily exhale to expel almost all the dirty air from the mask 2, creating a temporary vacuum. Physically, clean air from outside is waiting to enter this negative pressure environment. The user only needs to inhale slightly to draw clean air from the outside into the mask body 3, thus creating a comfortable breathing cycle that is less tiring and eliminates the risk of excessive carbon dioxide levels inside the mask. This mask design makes the lower half of the entire body 3, that is, the width from below the frame 31 to the nose skirt 52 and mouth skirt 53, noticeably thinner as the face shapes downwards (e.g., Figure 5A This makes the overall size of the snorkeling mask 2 much smaller than that of the existing full-face mask 1, making it more portable. Compared with the actual measurement data of the internal space of other commercially available masks, it is sufficient to prove the size advantage of this invention.

[0153]

[0154] Table C

[0155] For example Figure 5D and Figure 5E As shown, due to the above structural arrangement, the transparent lens portion 44 in the breathable mask 2 of the present invention does not protrude beyond the outer edge of the frame 31 at all, and can fit closer to the user's face F, thereby achieving excellent REP and ROP values ​​with a very small internal volume of the mask body 3. The transparent lens portion 44 not protruding beyond the outer edge of the frame 31 is not limited to, for example... Figures 5A-5E The flat mirror style shown is also applicable to other styles, such as plano mirrors with corners or curved mirrors with arcs. Taking a plano mirror as an example, see... Figure 6The required components are a planar frame 31A and a transparent lens 44A, which includes a flat portion 44B and two curved portions 44C, extending backward from both sides of the flat portion 44B. The skirt frame is a planar skirt frame 511A, so that the shapes of the planar frame 31A, the periphery of the planar lens 44A and the planar skirt frame 511A correspond to each other, so as to facilitate mutual fitting.

[0156] Additionally, when using a snorkeling mask, if the following method is adopted... Figure 5F The intake and exhaust separation measures are just as important as the exhaust efficiency in terms of the amount and effectiveness of clean air intake. While the aforementioned negative pressure transient vacuum theory is more related to exhaust efficiency (i.e., whether all dirty air can be expelled), further improvements in the next intake cycle will undoubtedly allow the entire mask's intake and exhaust cycle to reach its peak. Geometrically, rectangles occupy less space than circles for the same area. Therefore, a rectangular valve with a single-sided pivot is physically easier to place in limited spaces (e.g., in the space separating eye bags and nasal pockets) than a centrally fixed circular mushroom-shaped one-way valve, and can accept air intake at a better opening angle. This invention, with its groundbreaking and compact design, and the use of a pivoting one-way valve to provide one-way air intake from eye bags to nasal pockets, significantly improves the air intake volume and saves the user's energy.

[0157] The following describes the pivoting one-way valve. First, each face mask 2 is equipped with at least one (left or right), preferably two (one on each side); more preferably, four (two on each side, for intake and exhaust, with the upper intake being larger and the lower exhaust smaller). The description will now focus on one of the intake one-way valves 57 located in the partition 522. The exhaust one-way valve 59 is similar and can be located anywhere in the exhaust passage 58, such as at the inlet. Figure 7A and Figure 7B As shown, it can also be located at the exhaust duct position at the top of the breathing tube 4 (not shown in the figure). The intake one-way valve 57 includes a fixing part 571 and a pivot shaft 572. The fixing part 571 is installed on the side of the air inlet 524 on the partition part 522. The pivot shaft does not necessarily need to be actually equipped with a hinge or a pin. It can directly reduce the thickness of one side of the door flap 573 (making the thickness 20%-60% of the thickness of the door flap 573 is optimal), making it a weak zone for bending, such as Figure 7A and Figure 7B As shown, this achieves the effect of pivoting the door swing 573. When the door swing is subjected to force, it will naturally pivot around the weak area as the axis, opening or closing the door swing with a very definite action and quick response. If the installation method is appropriate, the door swing 573 will naturally be slightly open due to its own weight, achieving the effect of pre-assisting air intake. The user inhales with normal force (such as... Figure 7A As shown, with the intake one-way valve 57 open and the exhaust one-way valve 59 closed, the door swing 573 can be easily opened to about 40-70 degrees. If one exhales or inhales deeply, the door swing opens to about 60-70 degrees. Figure 7A As shown, the ventilation volume is almost equivalent to the amount of gas passing through inlet 524 without the door flap. The same applies to the user's exhalation, as... Figure 7B As shown, the intake one-way valve 57 is closed and the exhaust one-way valve 59 is open, but the operation is the same. The door swing is not limited to a rectangle; it can be square, trapezoidal, polygonal, circular, semi-circular, elliptical, triangular, or even irregular in shape, as long as it maintains a flexible door swing with one-sided pivoting or a free door swing. If the door swing adopts the recommended rectangle, its width and height should be set between 5mm and 30mm, and its thickness between 0.3mm and 3mm. This is the size range that saves the most space and is easiest to open and close naturally according to the user's inhalation and exhalation. The size of the air intake 524 blocked by the door swing should be slightly smaller than the door swing 573.

[0158] Compared to existing technologies, the drain and vent valve of this invention is obviously more efficient at discharging water and air. Furthermore, [further details omitted]. Figure 5A , Figure 5C , Figure 5D The present invention has multiple openings 325 (unlimited number) on the cover 321 of the mouth frame 32, and an opening 534 on the mouth skirt 53, so that the multiple openings 325 are at least partially aligned with the opening 534. The drain and exhaust valve 7 is sandwiched between the multiple openings 325 and the opening 534, so that the user can blow out water that has leaked into the body 3 and dirty air exhaled from the mouth through the mouth and nose bag 56, through the mouth frame 32 and the mouth skirt 53. And because the user's mouth M is contained in the mouth skirt 53, the drain and exhaust valve 7 is substantially corresponding to and closer to the user's mouth M, and the blowing and exhaling efficiency is naturally greatly improved. This can be compared with the mouth M and the drain and exhaust valve 7 of the present invention (e.g., Figure 5D The relative positional relationship between the mouth M and the drain / vent valve 5 of the conventional FFSM (as shown in Figure 1B) is clear. More preferably, the drain / vent valve 7 includes a valve seat 71 and a valve plate 72 centrally fixed to the valve seat 71. One side of the valve seat 71 is tightly fitted (e.g., with multiple flanges 711 or screwed on) to the edge of the opening 534 of the mouth skirt 53, while the other side is fastened to the cover 321 of the mouth frame 32. Figure 8 As shown, the drain and vent valve is securely fixed between the mouth skirt 53 and the mouth frame 32, achieving excellent stability and rigidity. Unlike traditional FFSMs, the lens part size no longer needs to be extended downwards for the installation of the drain and vent valve 5 (as shown in Figures 1A and 1B), which prevents the mask volume from being reduced.

[0159] Given the advantage that the drain and exhaust valve 7 is not limited by position, the size of the valve plate 72 can be increased, preferably to a diameter of 23-28 mm, or even larger, significantly increasing the efficiency of drainage and exhaust. It can even be used as the sole channel for exhalation, eliminating the need for an exhaust tube in the exhaust channel 58 or breathing tube 4. Furthermore, Figure 8 The orientation of the displayed image closely resembles the state of a user wearing mask 2 while snorkeling in the water. At this time, the mouth and nose bag 56 actually presents a funnel-like shape, with the drain tip of the funnel being the location of the drain and vent valve 7. In other words, if there is water inside the mask, it will naturally accumulate at the location of the drain and vent valve 7 on the funnel-shaped mouth and nose bag 56. The user can easily exhale through the drain and vent valve 7 while in the water without having to get out of the water or even remove the mask 2.

[0160] Compared to existing technologies, wearing the face mask 2 of this invention is simpler, less oppressive, and still waterproof. Furthermore, as... Figure 9A As shown, the present invention provides an upper fastening device 81 and a lower fastening device 82, both extending from the rear of the main body 3, to secure the main body to the user's face in a waterproof manner at three points. The upper fastening device 81 has a headband 811 and two fixing devices 812 for connecting the two ends of the headband 811, formed on two opposite sides of the frame 31. The headband 811 is at least one of elastic and adjustable types, and the fixing device 812 can be any means that can be connected to the headband 811. Figure 9A (and Figure 11A The headband 811 shown is adjustable and has quick-release connections at both ends to the fixing device 812; however, this is only an example and does not limit the connection method. The lower fastening device is preferably made at least partially of an elastic material, extending rearward from the rear edge 501 of the waterproof sealing skirt 50, particularly from both sides of the rear edge of the mouth skirt 53, and is fixed to the user's chin or jawbone to enhance the waterproofness between the mouth skirt 53 and the area near the user's mouth M. The lower fastening device is a chin strap or a chin retainer, which will be described below.

[0161] The lower fastening device 82 is an embodiment of the chin strap 820, such as... Figures 5A-5D as well as Figures 9A-9CAs shown. The chin strap 820 is connected between the two sides of the mouth skirt 53 (or the eye skirt 51 and the mouth skirt 53). When the user wears the breathable mask 2, the chin strap 820 can be elastically and tightly fastened to the user's chin or the area behind the jawbone. The two ends of the chin strap 820 can be integrally formed with the rear edge 501 of the waterproof sealing skirt 50 at any position, such as with the rear edge of the eye skirt 51 and the mouth skirt 53, or can be detachably and / or adjustablely connected to the mouth skirt 53, so that the length and tightness of the chin strap 820 can be adjusted. Figure 9B and Figure 9C The example shown is one embodiment of a detachable and / or adjustable type, wherein a male fastener 823 extends from both sides of the skirt portion 53 for the chin strap 825 with multiple female fasteners (holes 824) to pass through, position, and adjust.

[0162] In an embodiment where the lower fastening device is a chin retainer, then as follows: Figure 10A As shown. The chin retainer 830 extends integrally from the lower end of the eye skirt 51 to the rear edges of both sides of the mouth skirt 53, and extends further rearward below the mouth skirt 53, integrally formed with the rear edge 501 of the waterproof sealing skirt 50. This type of chin retainer 830 can be made smaller, with a protruding rib 831 on both sides of the mouth skirt 53, extending continuously downward from the eye skirt 51 and passing under the mouth skirt 53 to increase the support of the chin retainer 830, so that when the user wears it, the chin retainer 830 elastically presses against the user's chin or jawbone. This type of chin retainer 850 can also be made larger, such as Figure 11A As shown, the chin support plate 850 extends continuously and rearward from the rear edges of both sides of the eye skirt 51 and mouth skirt 53, and is integrally formed with the mouth skirt 53. Furthermore, this chin support plate 850 includes a pad area 851 and a surrounding area 852 surrounding the pad area 851. The surrounding area 852 has the same material as the mouth skirt 53, while the pad area 851 has a different material or thickness than the surrounding area 852. Specifically, the material of the pad area 851 is selected from materials including TPR, TPU, silicone, PVC, rubber, or combinations thereof, with a Shore hardness between 10 and 80 being optimal. Regarding the thickness of the pad area 851, it is recommended that it be thinner than the surrounding area 852, with the thickness difference between the two between 0.2 and 5 mm, so that when the user wears the chin support plate 850, the pad area 851 of the chin support plate 850 rests against the user's chin or jawbone, increasing the water resistance and comfort around the user's mouth. The surface of gasket area 851 is suggested to be made as follows: Figure 11A The pleated form, or the honeycomb form (such as...) Figure 11B The pad area 853 is designed to increase friction with the chin to prevent it from shifting during use and also indirectly enhances the waterproof effect.

[0163] It is worth mentioning that if the two sides of the chin fixing pieces 830 and 850 are connected upwards to the rear edge of the eye skirt 51, it is equivalent to the rear edge 501 of the entire waterproof sealing skirt 50, which continues to have the same characteristics. Figure 5D and 5E The mask body 3 has a Y-shaped cross-section, meaning that the entire part of the mask body 3 that fits against the face has two layers of waterproof protection, namely the inner first fitting part 502 and the outer second fitting part 503. In this way, it can wrap around the entire surface of the face. In the lower area of ​​the mask body 3, the waterproof rings 535 (flat type) and 536 (curved and folded type) of the skirt part 53 serve as the first fitting part 502, and the chin fixing pieces 830 and 850 serve as the second fitting part 503, as shown below. Figure 10B and Figure 11C As shown, the waterproof effect and comfort have been greatly improved.

[0164] Furthermore, in the most traditional eye-nose masks, the area between the user's nostrils and upper lip (the so-called philtrum area) often leaks water. This is because the facial lines in the philtrum area are complex, and the waterproofing in this area is clearly insufficient. Once water enters the mask, it naturally accumulates in this area. Because this area is so close to the nostrils, it causes the user to feel anxious. Therefore, the aforementioned double-layer waterproof protection can also be applied to this most traditional eye-nose mask, as detailed below. As shown in Figures 12A and 12B, the diving mask 90 includes a frame 91, a transparent lens portion 92, and a waterproof sealing skirt 93. The transparent lens portion 92 corresponds in shape to the frame 91. The waterproof sealing skirt 93 is integrally formed into an eye skirt 931 and a nose skirt 932, wherein the front of the eye skirt 931 has a skirt frame 933, corresponding in shape to the transparent lens portion 92. The transparent lens portion 92 and the skirt frame 933 are waterproofly embedded in the frame 91, while the nose skirt portion 932 protrudes forward from a central area outside the frame. A continuous double-layer waterproof ring 930 is formed at the rear periphery of the waterproof sealing skirt 93. When the user wears the diving mask 90, their eyes and nose are respectively accommodated within the eye skirt portion 931 and nose skirt portion 932. The double-layer waterproof ring 930 can fit snugly against the user's face along the outer periphery of the eyes and nose, passing through the area between the nose and upper lip (not shown). Preferably, the double-layer waterproof ring 930 forms a first fitting portion 935 and a second fitting portion 936, together forming a Y-shaped cross-section, as shown in Figure 12B. When the rear edge of the waterproof sealing skirt 93 is snugly against the user's face, the second fitting portion 936 is located at the outer periphery of the first fitting portion 935, forming a second layer of protection to prevent leakage.

[0165] In addition, unlike the FFSM, where the entire front of the mask body is almost entirely made of hard lenses, this invention features a nose frame 33 between the eye frame 31 and the mouth frame 32. This allows the soft nose skirt 52 to protrude forward into a pressure-stabilizing area, enabling the user to perform Frenzel equalization. This helps balance the pressure inside and outside the mask, and improves the seal between the mask and the face, especially when the mouth, nose, and eyes are covered simultaneously. Maintaining pressure balance inside and outside the mask also prevents water from entering. Specifically, the nose skirt 52 includes a pressure-stabilizing part 521 and a spacer part 522, separated by a section of the eye frame 31. The nose skirt 52 rises forward from the rear edge of the eye frame 31, having a single-peak cross-sectional shape, resembling... Figure 5E As shown, the optimal cross-section has a total height (Nh) from valley to peak of any given section between 20mm and 30mm, or the nose skirt 52 protruding forward beyond the outer edge of the frame 31 from the rear edge (Nt) between 5mm and 12mm. This cross-sectional shape, with a valley width greater than the peak height and a single peak (without a ridge), and the pressure-stabilizing part 521 tightly clamped and supported by the nose frame 33 defined by the frame 31 on both sides, will not collapse or deform and pinch the nose even under high pressure at several meters underwater. If the support design adopts a slightly backward-bent form, such as... Figure 11A , Figure 11B The bracket 323 shown can form a larger finger access area (FS), providing users with faster and more convenient pressure stabilization operations. Of course, if pressure stabilization is not a consideration, it is also feasible to design the nose skirt 52 partially or entirely with a rigid material.

[0166] Except for the preferred embodiments described above, which have detailed the structure and operation of the present invention, any variations based on the concept of the present invention shall fall within the equivalent scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A breathable face mask, comprising a body and a breathing tube, wherein an interior of the breathing tube is in fluid communication with an interior of the body; characterized in that, This ontology contains: A main frame has a mirror frame and a mouth frame, the mouth frame extending from the bottom of the mirror frame and together with the mirror frame defining a nose frame; the mouth frame is in fluid communication with the outside world. A lens module having a transparent lens portion that corresponds to the shape of the frame; A waterproof sealing skirt is integrally formed into an eye skirt, a nose skirt, and a mouth skirt; wherein the front of the eye skirt has a skirt frame that corresponds to the shape of the transparent lens section; One drain and air vent valve; Wherein: the transparent lens part and the skirt frame are waterproofly embedded in the lens frame, and the nose skirt protrudes outward from the nose frame; the drain and vent valve is sandwiched between the mouth skirt and the mouth frame, so that the mouth skirt can be unidirectionally fluidized to the outside through the mouth frame. When a user puts on the breathable mask, their eyes, nose, and mouth are respectively housed in the eye skirt, nose skirt, and mouth skirt, and the waterproof sealing skirt extends continuously from the rear edge of the eye, nose, and mouth along one outer periphery, closely adhering to the user's face. The drain and vent valve includes a valve seat and a valve plate fixed to the center of the valve seat. One side of the valve seat is engaged with the opening of the skirt by multiple flanges, and the other side is fastened to the cover of the frame. The nose skirt includes a pressure-stabilizing part and a spacer part, which are separated by a section of the frame; and the eye skirt, the clear lens part and the spacer part together define an eye pocket to accommodate the user's eyes; while the pressure-stabilizing part, the spacer part and the mouth skirt together define a nose pocket to accommodate the user's nose and mouth. The mouth and nose bag has a cross-sectional shape similar to a funnel, with a drain tip, and the drain and vent valve is located at the drain tip. The nose skirt rises forward from the rear edge of the frame, extending beyond the outer edge of the frame and ranging from 5mm to 12mm.

2. The breathable face mask as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The device further includes a frame, wherein the frame has a rigid inner flange, the skirt frame has a corresponding soft flange, the soft flange overlaps and covers the inner flange, the outer periphery of the transparent lens overlaps and covers the soft flange, and the sub-frame overlaps and covers the outer periphery of the transparent lens and is fixed to the frame, so that the transparent lens and the skirt frame are waterproofly embedded in the frame.

3. The breathable face mask as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The subframe and the main frame are secured to each other using snaps or adhesive.

4. The breathable face mask as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The frame has a shield and two supports, which extend from the lower sides of the frame and connect to the shield.

5. The breathable face mask as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The shield has multiple openings, and the mouth skirt has an opening. The multiple openings are at least partially aligned with the opening. The drain and vent valve is sandwiched between the multiple openings and the opening, so that the mouth skirt is in one-way fluid communication with the outside through the mouth frame. When the user's mouth is placed in the mouth skirt, the drain and vent valve is aligned with the user's mouth.

6. The breathable face mask as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The drain and vent valve is fixed between the skirt and the frame of the inlet.

7. The breathable face mask as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The diameter of the valve disc is between 23 and 28 mm.

8. The breathable face mask as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The spacer is provided with at least one pivoting one-way valve to provide a one-way airflow from the eye bag to the nasal bag.

9. The breathable face mask as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The interval is symmetrically provided with two pivoting check valves, each of which is rectangular and has a width or height between 5 mm and 30 mm.

10. The breathable face mask as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The interval is symmetrically provided with two pivoting check valves, each of which is rectangular and has a thickness between 0.3 mm and 3 mm.

11. The breathable face mask as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The interval is symmetrically provided with two pivoting one-way valves, each of which has a rectangular gate, a fixed part, and a pivot shaft located between the gate and the fixed part.

12. The breathable face mask as described in claim 11, characterized in that, The pivot axis is formed by thinning the thickness of one side of the gate.

13. The breathable face mask as described in claim 1, characterized in that, It further includes an exhaust channel disposed along an inner periphery of the frame, the exhaust channel being defined by an outer peripheral surface of the eye skirt and the transparent lens portion, wherein the upper end of the exhaust channel is in fluid communication with the breathing tube and the lower end is in fluid communication with the mouth and nose bag.

14. The breathable face mask as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The rear edge of the eye skirt of the waterproof sealing skirt has a Y-shaped cross-section, forming a first fitting part and a second fitting part. When the rear edge of the waterproof sealing skirt is in close contact with the user's face, the second fitting part is located at the outer periphery of the first fitting part.

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