Pressurized plateau breathing system and device thereof

Abstract

The invention discloses a pressurized plateau breathing system and a device thereof. The pressurized plateau breathing system comprises a breathing unit, an air pump unit and an expiration unit. The breathing unit is in the form of a mask / mask, a helmet, a sleeping bag or a cabin, and the internal pressure is kept at 0.8-1.0 atm when the breathing unit is used; the working pressure of the air pump unit is 20-50 kPa, and the mask type minimum air supply flow is 120 L / min (1 atm conversion); the expiration unit is differentially designed according to the form of the breathing unit, namely, the mask / helmet adopts a nose suction and mouth expiration mode, and exhalation is performed through a mouth one-way expiration valve; the sleeping bag / cabin adopts a pressure relief pipe exhaust mode, and the internal pressure is controlled through an adjustable pressure relief valve. The oxygen partial pressure is increased through physical pressurization, dependence on an oxygen source is avoided, and sustainable use can be achieved; the unified pressurization principle covers multiple scene requirements of dynamic, sleep, fixation and the like; pressure parameters are appropriate, flow standard is sufficient, the structure is simple and reliable, and all-weather breathing improvement of plateau crowds is achieved.

Description

[0001] This invention relates to the field of respiratory assistive devices, and more specifically, to a pressurized breathing system and device suitable for high-altitude environments, including various forms such as masks, helmets, sleeping bags, and cabins. Background Technology

[0002] Due to Earth's gravity, the density and pressure of the atmosphere at the Earth's surface decrease with increasing altitude. At sea level, the atmospheric pressure is 1 atm (1 standard atmosphere, 101.3 kPa). At an altitude of 1800 meters, it is approximately 0.8 atm (80.9 kPa), at which point the human body begins to experience discomfort. At 2700 meters, it is approximately 0.7 atm (70.6 kPa), and at 3600 meters, it is approximately 0.6 atm (60.52 kPa), at which point significant breathing difficulties occur. At 4500 meters, it is approximately 0.5 atm (50.44 kPa), which can lead to severe altitude sickness.

[0003] The fundamental reason why high-altitude environments cause hypoxia in the human body is that although the volume fraction of oxygen in the air (approximately 21%) remains basically unchanged, as the air pressure decreases, the total number of gas molecules decreases, and the partial pressure of oxygen decreases proportionally. Humans maintain the same volume of gas during respiration, but the total number of oxygen molecules inhaled decreases, leading to a drop in blood oxygen saturation.

[0004] Existing high-altitude oxygen supply technologies mainly include:

[0005] 1. Oxygen cylinder supply: inconvenient to carry, limited capacity, and relies on a source of oxygen for replenishment;

[0006] 2. Oxygen generator oxygen supply: The equipment is heavy, consumes a lot of power, and requires electrical support;

[0007] 3. Pulsed oxygen supply: Oxygen is supplied during inhalation by detecting the respiratory rhythm through sensors, but the reliability of electronic components decreases in low-temperature environments and the response to rapid breathing is delayed;

[0008] 4. Pressure chamber: Large in size and high in cost, it is only suitable for fixed locations.

[0009] The aforementioned technologies all have limitations to varying degrees and fail to simultaneously cover multiple usage scenarios such as personal portability, sleep and rest, and fixed residences through simple physical pressurization. Summary of the Invention

[0010] Technical issues

[0011] This invention aims to solve the problems of existing high-altitude oxygen supply equipment relying on external oxygen sources, being unable to continuously provide a suitable air pressure environment, and being unable to cover the needs of multiple usage scenarios, and provides a technical solution to improve breathing conditions through physical pressurization.

[0012] Technical solution

[0013] This invention provides a pressurized high-altitude breathing system, comprising a breathing unit, an air pump unit, and an exhalation unit.

[0014] The breathing unit is used to accommodate the human body's breathing parts, forming a closed or semi-closed space, and can be selected from the following forms:

[0015] • Face mask or mask type: Covers the mouth and nose, suitable for dynamic scenarios such as walking and working;

[0016] • Helmet-style: Covers the entire head and is suitable for cold environments or scenarios requiring head protection;

[0017] • Sleeping bag style: accommodates the entire human body and is suitable for sleep and rest scenarios;

[0018] • Cabin type: including enclosed driver's cab, guard post or house, suitable for fixed residence or workplace.

[0019] The breathing unit is designed to withstand pressure, maintaining an internal pressure of 0.8 to 1.0 atmospheres during use to simulate the breathing environment in low-altitude areas.

[0020] The air pump unit is connected to the breathing unit and is used to compress external air and deliver it into the breathing unit. The air pump operates at a pressure of 20~50 kPa (approximately 0.2~0.5 atm), ensuring that the internal air pressure of the breathing unit is higher than the ambient atmospheric pressure. For mask-type breathing units, the air pump's air supply flow rate is no less than 120 L / min (converted to 1 standard atmosphere) to meet the minute ventilation requirements under maximum physical exertion.

[0021] The air pump unit can be driven in various ways:

[0022] • Electric air pump: Powered by battery or external power source, suitable for portable or stationary use;

[0023] • Mechanical air pump: Driven by an engine or human power, suitable for environments without electricity;

[0024] • Manual air pump: including hand-cranked or foot-operated types, as an emergency backup.

[0025] The exhalation unit is mounted on the respirator and is used to expel exhaled gas and maintain internal pressure. Depending on the type of respirator, the exhalation unit employs a differentiated design:

[0026] For mask-type or helmet-type breathing units, use a nasal inhalation and mouth exhalation breathing pattern:

[0027] • During inhalation, air is delivered into the breathing unit via an air pump and inhaled through the nasal cavity;

[0028] • When exhaling, the air is exhaled through the mouth and discharged to the outside through the exhalation nozzle located at the mouth;

[0029] • The exhalation nozzle has a one-way valve structure, which maintains a slight positive pressure inside the breathing unit and prevents outside air from flowing back in.

[0030] For sleeping bag or cabin-type breathing units, a depressurization pipe is used for venting.

[0031] • The breathing unit is equipped with an intake pipe and an exhaust pipe;

[0032] • The exhaust pipe is equipped with a pressure relief valve or an adjustable flow device at the end to control the internal pressure;

[0033] • The doors, windows, or openings of the breathing unit are equipped with sealing structures, such as sealing zippers or sealing strips.

[0034] The present invention may also include a pressure regulating device for automatically or manually controlling the internal pressure of the breathing unit to remain stable within a set range.

[0035] Beneficial effects

[0036] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following beneficial effects:

[0037] 1. Not dependent on oxygen source: The oxygen partial pressure is increased by physical pressurization, eliminating the need for oxygen generation or storage devices, and can be used continuously;

[0038] 2. Covering multiple scenarios: Adopting a unified pressurization principle, it forms a complete product series of masks / helmets (dynamic), sleeping bags (sleep), and cabins (fixed) to meet the all-weather breathing needs of people in high-altitude areas;

[0039] 3. Suitable pressure parameters: The internal pressure of the breathing unit is maintained at 0.8~1.0 atm, and the working pressure of the air pump is 20~50 kPa, simulating the low-altitude breathing environment while avoiding the risk of barotrauma.

[0040] 4. Optimized exhalation method: Different exhalation paths are designed for different scenarios - the mask / helmet uses "nose inhale, mouth exhale" in conjunction with the mouthpiece to avoid wasting pressurized gas; the sleeping bag / cabin uses a depressurization pipe for exhaust, which is convenient for long-term use;

[0041] 5. Sufficient airflow standard: The minimum air supply flow rate of the mask is 120L / min (equivalent to 1atm), which meets the maximum minute ventilation of the human body (approximately 80~100L / min for healthy adults in exercise state), ensuring the needs of various activities;

[0042] 6. Simple and reliable structure: No complex electronic control components, good environmental adaptability, low cost, and easy to promote. Detailed Implementation

[0043] Example 1: Pressurized breathing mask

[0044] This embodiment provides a pressurized breathing mask, corresponding to the solution described in claim 8.

[0045] The mask body is injection molded from medical-grade silicone material, with a contour that conforms to the human face and covers the mouth and nose area. The mask body has a sealing edge with a soft silicone film, 0.3~0.5mm thick and 8~12mm wide, which adheres tightly to the skin under internal pressure to ensure a seal.

[0046] The mask body has an air inlet located in front of the nose. The air inlet is connected to an electric air pump via an air inlet tube. The electric air pump is a miniature diaphragm pump with a working pressure of 30 kPa, a maximum flow rate of 150 L / min (equivalent to 1 atm), and is powered by a lithium battery, with a continuous working time of ≥4 hours. The air inlet tube is made of food-grade PVC flexible tubing with an inner diameter of 12 mm and an adjustable length.

[0047] The mask body has an exhalation port at the corresponding position of the mouth area, equipped with a one-way exhalation valve. The one-way exhalation valve is a silicone duckbill valve structure. When exhaling, the air exhaled from the mouth pushes open the valve and is expelled; when inhaling, the valve closes under the action of external air pressure to prevent the backflow of outside air.

[0048] To use, the wearer puts on the mask and starts the air pump. The air pump compresses outside air and delivers it into the mask, maintaining the pressure inside the mask at 0.8~1.0 atm (adjustable according to altitude). When the wearer inhales, the pressurized air is drawn in through the nose; when exhaling, the air is expelled through the mouth and discharged through the one-way exhalation valve. The exhalation valve design ensures that the mask always maintains a slight positive pressure, guaranteeing smooth breathing while preventing air waste.

[0049] Tests showed that when using the mask of this embodiment at an altitude of 4,500 meters (at an atmospheric pressure of approximately 0.58 atm), the pressure inside the mask could reach over 0.8 atm, equivalent to breathing conditions at an altitude of approximately 2,500 meters. Blood oxygen saturation increased from 70-75% before use to 90-95%, and altitude sickness symptoms were significantly relieved.

[0050] Example 2: Pressurized breathing helmet

[0051] This embodiment provides a pressurized breathing helmet suitable for high-altitude or cold-weather scenarios or situations requiring head protection.

[0052] The helmet body features a rigid ABS shell with an internal soft padding structure, and the transparent visor is openable and closable. Air intakes are located at the rear or side of the helmet, connected to an air pump via an intake tube. An exhalation port with a one-way exhalation valve is located at the corresponding position on the helmet's opening. An elastic sealing ring is installed where the helmet contacts the neck to ensure a tight seal.

[0053] Its working principle is the same as in Example 1, using a nasal inhalation and mouth exhalation method. Since the helmet has a larger volume than the mask, the air pump flow rate is correspondingly increased to over 180L / min, maintaining the internal pressure at 0.8~1.0atm.

[0054] Example 3: Compression Sleeping Bag

[0055] This embodiment provides a pressure sleeping bag, corresponding to the solution described in claim 9, which is suitable for sleep and rest at high altitudes.

[0056] The sleeping bag body is made of double-layered airtight fabric (such as TPU composite nylon cloth) heat-sealed, and its shape is roughly the same as that of a human body. A sealed zipper is located at the front of the sleeping bag for easy entry and exit, and a sealing strip is located on the outside of the zipper. A transparent window is located at the top of the sleeping bag (corresponding to the head position) for easy observation of the outside environment.

[0057] The sleeping bag has an air inlet at the shoulder, which connects to an air pump via an air inlet pipe. The air pump can be electric or manual, with an operating pressure of 20~40kPa and a flow rate ≥200L / min. An exhaust port is located at the bottom or side of the sleeping bag, connected to a pressure relief pipe. A pressure regulating valve is located at the end of the pressure relief pipe, allowing manual adjustment of the opening pressure.

[0058] When using the sleeping bag, the person enters and closes the sealing zipper. The air pump is activated to supply air into the sleeping bag, while the pressure relief valve is adjusted to stabilize the internal pressure at 0.8~1.0 atm. As the person breathes, the exhaled air mixes with the supplied air and is continuously expelled through the pressure relief valve, keeping the internal air fresh. The continuous venting from the pressure relief valve also removes moisture and heat, preventing condensation buildup.

[0059] Tests showed that when the sleeping bag of this embodiment was used at an altitude of 5,000 meters, the internal pressure was maintained above 0.8 atm, which is equivalent to an altitude of about 3,000 meters. Sleep quality was significantly improved, and blood oxygen saturation was ≥90% upon waking up in the morning.

[0060] Example 4: Pressurized Chamber

[0061] This embodiment provides a pressurized cabin suitable for fixed residences or workplaces.

[0062] The cabin can be constructed using either a container or tent-like structure, with an internal volume sufficient for personnel to stand and walk. The cabin is equipped with sealed doors and windows, with rubber sealing strips installed along the edges. The cabin walls are made of thermally insulated materials, and the interior is floored.

[0063] Air inlets are located on the side walls of the compartment, connected to air pump units via ductwork. The air pump units consist of multiple parallel electric fans, with the total air supply determined based on the compartment volume and number of personnel (based on a standard of 120L / min per person). An exhaust vent is located on the other side of the compartment, connected to an exhaust duct, with a pressure regulating valve installed at the end of the duct. A pressure gauge is installed inside the compartment for easy monitoring of the pressure.

[0064] When in use, close the doors and windows, start the air pump to supply air into the cabin, and adjust the exhaust valve to stabilize the internal pressure at 0.8~1.0 atm. Personnel inside the cabin can move around and rest normally. The continuous exhaust from the exhaust valve ensures air renewal and prevents CO2 accumulation.

[0065] The cabin in this embodiment is suitable for fixed locations such as high-altitude construction sites, outposts, and scientific research stations, providing personnel with a comfortable rest and working environment.

[0066] Industrial applicability

[0067] This invention utilizes a simple physical pressurization principle, employing a 20-50 kPa air pump and a flow rate exceeding 120 L / min, to maintain the internal pressure of the breathing unit at 0.8-1.0 atm. Combining nasal inhalation and mouthpiece exhalation with depressurization and exhaust modes, it forms a comprehensive high-altitude breathing solution covering masks, helmets, sleeping bags, and cabins. The product has a simple structure, controllable cost, does not rely on an oxygen source, is easy to promote and apply in high-altitude areas, and has good industrial practicality.

Claims

1. A pressurized high-altitude breathing system, characterized in that, include: A breathing unit is used to house the human body's breathing parts, forming a closed or semi-closed space. An air pump unit, connected to the breathing unit, is used to compress external air and send it into the breathing unit; An exhalation unit, disposed on the breathing unit, is used to expel exhaled gas and maintain internal pressure; The working pressure of the air pump unit is 20~50kPa, so that the internal air pressure of the breathing unit is higher than the ambient atmospheric pressure; the air pump unit supplies air flow rate of not less than 120L / min to the mask-type breathing unit, and the flow rate is calculated based on 1 standard atmosphere.

2. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The respiratory unit is selected from any of the following forms: A face mask or mask that covers the mouth and nose; Helmet-style, covering the entire head; Sleeping bag style, accommodating the entire body; Cabin-type, including enclosed cockpits, guard booths, or houses.

3. The system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The breathing unit is pressurized and maintains an internal pressure of 0.8~1.0 atm during use.

4. The system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The mask-type or helmet-type breathing unit adopts a breathing method of inhaling through the nose and exhaling through the mouth: During inhalation, air is delivered into the breathing unit via an air pump and inhaled through the nasal cavity; When exhaling, the air is exhaled through the mouth and discharged to the outside through the exhalation nozzle located at the mouth.

5. The system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The sleeping bag or cabin-type breathing unit uses a pressure relief pipe for exhaust: The breathing unit is equipped with an intake pipe and an exhaust pipe; The exhaust pipe is equipped with a pressure relief valve or an adjustable flow device at its end to control the internal pressure; The breathing unit has a sealing structure at the doors, windows, or openings.

6. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The air pump unit is selected from any of the following driving methods: An electric air pump, powered by a battery or an external power source; Mechanical air pumps, driven by an engine or manually; Manual air pumps, including hand-cranked or foot-operated types.

7. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a pressure regulating device to control the internal pressure of the breathing unit to remain stable within a set range.

8. A pressurized high-altitude breathing mask, characterized in that, include: The mask body covers the mouth and nose area and has a sealing edge. The air inlet is located on the mask body and is connected to the air pump through the air inlet pipe; The exhalation port is located at the corresponding position on the mouth of the mask body and is equipped with a one-way exhalation valve; During inhalation, air enters the mask through the air inlet and is inhaled through the nasal cavity; during exhalation, air is exhaled through the mouth and discharged through the one-way exhalation valve.

9. A pressurized high-altitude sleeping bag, characterized in that, include: The sleeping bag body is sealed with a zipper that can be opened and closed; The air inlet is located on the sleeping bag body and is connected to the air pump via an air inlet pipe; The vent is located on the sleeping bag body and is connected to a pressure relief pipe; The pressure relief pipe is equipped with a pressure regulating valve at the end to control the air pressure inside the sleeping bag.