Exhalation valve structure for a face mask and face mask comprising the same

Abstract

The utility model relates to a kind of exhalation valve structures for face mask, including cover and the exhalation valve located in the middle of cover, exhalation valve includes the first multilayer grid and the second multilayer grid from top to bottom arrangement, wherein the adjacent grid in the first multilayer grid is staggered in the height direction perpendicular to the surface of grid and head-to-tail contact, so that there is no obvious gap between the adjacent grid in the first multilayer grid, the adjacent grid in the second multilayer grid is staggered in the height direction and spaced apart from each other, so that gap is defined between the adjacent grid in the second multilayer grid, and the first multilayer grid and the second multilayer grid are downward angle relative to horizontal plane, the angle is in the range of 55 ° to 70 °.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to a respiratory protection device, and more particularly to an exhalation valve structure for a face mask and a surface structure including the exhalation valve cover. Technical Background

[0002] Face masks are widely used in industry, medical fields, and construction to protect against dust, harmful gases, or pathogens. Existing face masks typically block harmful substances from the outside world through filter materials, but users often face high breathing resistance when exhaling, especially when worn for extended periods.

[0003] However, traditional exhalation valve structures have the following problems: high exhalation resistance, which obstructs airflow during exhalation and increases the burden of breathing; insufficient air tightness: poor sealing of the exhalation valve may allow external contaminants to enter the mask; limited wearing methods: traditional exhalation valve structures usually only support a single wearing mode and cannot adapt to the needs of different usage scenarios. Utility Model Content

[0004] This invention aims to solve the problems of high exhalation resistance and limited wearing methods in existing face mask exhalation valves. By optimizing the multi-layer grid layout, gap design, and wearing adjustment mechanism, it significantly improves exhalation efficiency, reduces exhalation resistance, and enhances wearing flexibility.

[0005] The exhalation valve structure for a face mask according to this invention includes a cover plate and an exhalation valve located in the middle of the cover plate. The exhalation valve includes a first multi-layer grid and a second multi-layer grid arranged from top to bottom. Adjacent grids in the first multi-layer grid are staggered in a height direction perpendicular to the grid surface and are in contact end-to-end, so that there is no obvious gap between adjacent grids in the first multi-layer grid. Adjacent grids in the second multi-layer grid are staggered in a height direction and spaced apart from each other, so that there is a defined gap between adjacent grids in the second multi-layer grid. The first and second multi-layer grids form a downward angle relative to the horizontal plane, with the angle ranging from 55° to 70°. The exhalation valve structure for a face mask according to this invention can prevent particulate matter from contaminating the exhalation valve and reduce exhalation resistance. Simultaneously, the multi-layer grid layout with a downward angle in the range of 55° to 70° helps some particles to fall directly, keeping the grid opening open for exhalation and allowing exhaled air to escape smoothly.

[0006] In one variation, the first multi-layer grid includes 2-4 grid layers staggered in a height direction perpendicular to the grid surface, and the second multi-layer grid includes 3-7 grid layers staggered in a height direction perpendicular to the grid surface. Preferably, the first multi-layer grid includes 3 grid layers, and the second multi-layer grid includes 5 grid layers.

[0007] In one variation, the topmost grid in the first multi-layer grid contacts the lower surface of the top of the exhalation valve, the bottommost grid in the first multi-layer grid and the topmost grid in the second multi-layer grid define a first gap, the second multi-layer grid defines a second gap, a third gap, a fourth gap and a fifth gap respectively in the height direction between adjacent grids, and the bottommost grid in the second multi-layer grid defines a sixth gap with the upper surface of the bottom of the exhalation valve.

[0008] In one variation, the heights of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth gaps exhibit a trend of first increasing and then decreasing in the vertical direction. Preferably, the heights of the first gap are 1.4-2.0 mm, the second gap is 1.6-2.2 mm, the third gap is 2.0-2.6 mm, the fourth gap is 2.7-3.3 mm, the fifth gap is 2.9-3.5 mm, and the sixth gap is 2.1-2.7 mm. This gradient structure, conforming to human respiratory mechanics, has dual advantages: the gradually expanding-contracting channels effectively reduce expiratory turbulence, resulting in a more uniform airflow resistance distribution that is reduced by approximately 35%, and by controlling the curvature radius of the gaps to create localized low-pressure zones, it can intercept most particulate matter migrating towards the expiratory valve while maintaining ventilation efficiency.

[0009] In one variation, the angle is approximately 63°. Multi-layered grid layouts with this angle are particularly advantageous, as they significantly help some particles fall directly and also allow exhaled air to escape smoothly.

[0010] In one variation, the exhalation valve structure further includes a headband fixing buckle and a headband adjustment buckle. In another variation, the headband adjustment buckle includes a tightened position and a loosened position. When the headband adjustment buckle is in the tightened position, the exhalation valve structure is in a normal wearing mode; when the headband adjustment buckle is in the loosened position, the exhalation valve structure is in a suspended wearing mode. This design improves wearing flexibility and adapts to the needs of different scenarios.

[0011] This utility model also provides a face mask including the above-described exhalation valve structure. Attached Figure Description

[0012] One or more embodiments are illustrated by way of example in the corresponding accompanying drawings. These illustrative descriptions do not constitute a limitation on the embodiments. Elements having the same reference numerals in the drawings represent similar elements. Unless otherwise stated, the figures in the drawings are not to be limited by scale.

[0013] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the exhalation valve structure according to this utility model installed on a face mask;

[0014] Figure 2This is a close-up schematic diagram of the multi-layer grid layout of the exhalation valve structure according to the present invention, which shows the first gap between adjacent grids;

[0015] Figure 3 This is a close-up schematic diagram of the multi-layer grid layout of the exhalation valve structure according to the present invention, which shows the second gap between adjacent grids;

[0016] Figure 4 This is a close-up schematic diagram of the multi-layer grid layout of the exhalation valve structure according to the present invention, which shows the third gap between adjacent grids;

[0017] Figure 5 This is a close-up schematic diagram of the multi-layer grid layout of the exhalation valve structure according to the present invention, which shows the fourth gap between adjacent grids;

[0018] Figure 6 This is a close-up schematic diagram of the multi-layer grid layout of the exhalation valve structure according to the present invention, which shows the fifth gap between adjacent grids;

[0019] Figure 7 This is a close-up schematic diagram of the multi-layer grid layout of the exhalation valve structure according to the present invention, showing the sixth gap between the bottommost grid and the upper surface of the bottom of the exhalation valve structure.

[0020] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the exhalation valve in normal wearing mode;

[0021] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the exhalation valve in the hanging wearing mode;

[0022] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram showing a multi-layered grid layout at a downward angle relative to the horizontal plane;

[0023] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram showing the disassembly of the exhalation valve structure according to this utility model from the mask;

[0024] Figure 12 This is a comparison of exhalation resistance and airtightness between a mask equipped with the exhalation valve cover according to this utility model and existing masks. Detailed Implementation

[0025] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this utility model clearer, the various embodiments of this utility model will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The following detailed description of the embodiments of this utility model provided in the accompanying drawings is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed utility model, but merely to illustrate selected embodiments of the utility model. The technical solutions claimed by this utility model can be implemented even without these technical details and various variations and modifications based on the following embodiments.

[0026] In the description of this utility model, the terms "first", "second", and "third" are used only to describe features and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of indicated technical features or the order of the indicated technical features.

[0027] In the description of this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly defined, terms such as "provided," "set up," "connected," and "linked" should be interpreted broadly, and those skilled in the art can reasonably determine the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model in conjunction with the specific content of the technical solution.

[0028] The exhalation valve cover 1 for a face mask 10 of this utility model will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0029] like Figures 1 to 11 As shown, the exhalation valve structure 10 for a half-mask 1 according to the present invention includes a cover plate 11 and an exhalation valve 12 located in the middle of the cover plate. The cover plate 11 is used to fix the entire exhalation valve structure 10 and connect it to the half-mask 1. The exhalation valve 12 is located in the center of the cover plate and includes a multi-layer grid layout, specifically, including a first multi-layer grid 13 and a second multi-layer grid 14 arranged from top to bottom. Adjacent grids in the first multi-layer grid 13 are staggered in a height direction perpendicular to the grid surface and are in contact end-to-end, so that there is no obvious gap between adjacent grids in the first multi-layer grid 13. End-to-end contact means that the lower edge of the upper grid in the first multi-layer grid 13 contacts or partially overlaps the upper edge of the lower grid. Adjacent grids in the second multi-layer grid 14 are staggered in a height direction perpendicular to the grid surface and spaced apart from each other, so that a gap 15 is defined between adjacent grids in the second multi-layer grid 14. The term "spaced apart" means that the lower edge of the upper grid cell in the second multi-layer grid 14 is spaced apart from the upper edge of the lower grid cell, thereby defining a gap or opening of a certain height between them. Furthermore, both the first multi-layer grid 13 and the second multi-layer grid 14 are at a downward angle α relative to the horizontal plane, where the angle α is in the range of 55° to 70°, preferably in the range of 60° to 65°, and more preferably 63°, especially as... Figure 10As shown. The exhalation valve structure for a face mask according to this invention can prevent particulate matter from contaminating the exhalation valve and reduce exhalation resistance; at the same time, the multi-layer grid layout with a downward angle in the range of 55° to 70° can help some particles fall directly, keep the grid opening open for exhalation, and also allow the exhaled gas to be discharged smoothly.

[0030] In one embodiment, such as Figures 2 to 7 As shown, the first multi-layer grid 13 includes 2-4 layers of grids staggered from each other in the height direction perpendicular to the grid surface, and the second multi-layer grid 14 includes 3-7 layers of grids staggered from each other in the height direction perpendicular to the grid surface. Preferably, the first multi-layer grid 13 includes 3 layers of grids 131, 132, and 133, and the second multi-layer grid includes 5 layers of grids 141, 142, 143, 144, and 145. Adjacent grids in the 3 layers 131, 132, and 133 are staggered in the height direction perpendicular to the grid surface and contact each other end-to-end without significant gaps to improve sealing. Adjacent grids in the 5 layers 141, 142, 143, 144, and 145 are staggered in the height direction perpendicular to the grid surface and are all provided with gaps 15 between them to reduce expiratory resistance.

[0031] In one embodiment, such as Figures 2 to 7As shown, the multi-layer grid layout and the gaps between them are arranged as follows. The first multi-layer grid 13 includes three layers of grids 131, 132, and 133 that are staggered from each other in the height direction perpendicular to the grid surface. The upper edge of the uppermost grid 131 in the first multi-layer grid 13 is in close contact with the lower surface 122 of the top 121 of the exhalation valve 12, without significant gaps. The upper edge of the middle grid 132 in the first multi-layer grid 13 is in close contact with the lower edge of the uppermost grid 131, without significant gaps. The upper edge of the lowermost grid 133 in the first multi-layer grid 13 is in close contact with the lower edge of the middle grid 132, without significant gaps. The second multi-layer grid includes five grids 141, 142, 143, 144, and 145 staggered from each other in a height direction perpendicular to the grid surface. The lower edge of the lowest grid 133 in the first multi-layer grid 13 and the upper edge of the uppermost grid (i.e., the first grid) 141 in the second multi-layer grid 14 define a first gap 151 in the height direction; the upper edge of the second grid 142 in the second multi-layer grid 14 and the lower edge of the first grid 141 in the second multi-layer grid 14 define a second gap 152 in the height direction; the upper edge of the third grid 143 in the second multi-layer grid 14 and the lower edge of the first grid 141 in the second multi-layer grid 14 define a second gap 152 in the height direction; the upper edge of the third grid 143 in the second multi-layer grid 14 and the lower edge of the first grid 141 in the second multi-layer grid 14 define a second gap 152 in the height direction. The lower edge of the second grid 142 defines a third gap 153 in the height direction; the upper edge of the fourth grid 144 in the second multi-layer grid 14 and the lower edge of the third grid 143 in the second multi-layer grid 14 define a fourth gap 154 ​​in the height direction; the upper edge of the fifth grid 145 in the second multi-layer grid 14 and the lower edge of the fourth grid 144 in the second multi-layer grid 14 define a fifth gap 155 in the height direction; and the lower edge of the lowest grid (i.e., the fifth grid) 145 in the second multi-layer grid 14 and the upper surface 124 of the bottom 123 of the exhalation valve 12 define a sixth gap 156 in the height direction. The multi-layer grid layout, which presents a closed arrangement at the top and a six-gap arrangement at the bottom, can significantly reduce airflow obstruction and improve breathing comfort.

[0032] In one embodiment, such as Figures 2 to 7As shown, the heights of the first gap 151, second gap 152, third gap 153, fourth gap 154, fifth gap 155, and sixth gap 156 between adjacent grids of the second multi-layer grid 14 exhibit a trend of first increasing and then decreasing in the height direction. In one embodiment, the height of the first gap 151 is 1.4-2.0 mm, preferably about 1.6-1.8 mm, and more preferably about 1.7 mm. In one embodiment, the height of the second gap 152 is 1.6-2.2 mm, preferably about 1.8-2.0 mm, and more preferably 1.9 mm. In one embodiment, the height of the third gap 153 is 2.0-2.6 mm, preferably about 2.2-2.4 mm, and more preferably about 2.3 mm. In one embodiment, the height of the fourth gap 154 ​​is 2.7-3.3 mm, preferably 2.9-3.1 mm, and more preferably about 3.0 mm. In one embodiment, the height of the fifth gap 155 is 2.9-3.5 mm, preferably 3.1 mm-3.3 mm, and more preferably about 3.2 mm. In one embodiment, the height of the sixth gap 156 is 2.1-2.7 mm, preferably about 2.3 mm-2.5 mm, and more preferably about 2.4 mm.

[0033] In one embodiment, such as Figures 8 to 9 As shown, the exhalation valve structure 10 according to this utility model also includes a headband fixing buckle 16 and a headband adjusting buckle 17 around the cover plate 11. The headband adjusting buckle 17 has a tight position and a loose position. When the headband adjusting buckle 17 is in the tight position, the exhalation valve structure 10 is in a normal wearing mode, and when the headband is in the loose position, the exhalation valve structure 10 is in a hanging wearing mode. In the normal wearing mode, the headband is fixed by both the headband fixing buckle 16 and the headband adjusting buckle 17. The headband passes through the temples and the back of the neck, and the tightness of the headband can be adjusted by pulling. In the hanging wearing mode, the headband adjusting buckle 17 is loosened, and the headband can pass through from top to bottom, allowing the mask to hang in front of the chest. This allows the user to communicate normally, rest, and drink water without removing the mask's headband and helmet in a safe breathing environment.

[0034] In one embodiment, the surface of each grid in the first multi-layer grid 13 and the first multi-layer grid 14 is designed with a curved shape.

[0035] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram showing the exhalation valve structure according to this utility model being disassembled from a face mask. The exhalation valve structure also includes a sealing strip or annular strip to cooperate with the valve seat, thereby achieving a good seal between the exhalation valve structure and the valve seat.

[0036] Figure 12This data compares the expiratory resistance and airtightness of the mask 10 equipped with the exhalation valve structure according to this invention with existing masks. Compared to the HF 0414, FH 0701, and FH 0521 masks before the SATA upgrade, the expiratory resistance of the HF 0414, FH 0701, and FH 0521 masks equipped with the exhalation valve structure according to this invention is significantly reduced from 228Pa, 228Pa, and 230Pa to 126Pa, 1740Pa, and 148Pa, respectively, and the airtightness is also significantly improved. Furthermore, compared to the commercially available mask models 3M 6200 and Honeywell 5500, its expiratory resistance is significantly reduced.

[0037] The exhalation valve structure of this utility model significantly improves exhalation efficiency, reduces exhalation resistance, and enhances wearing flexibility by optimizing the multi-layer grid layout, gap design, and wearing adjustment mechanism.

[0038] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this utility model and is not intended to limit the utility model. Various modifications and variations can be made to this utility model by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, or improvements made within the spirit and principles of this utility model should be included within the protection scope of this utility model.

Claims

1. An exhalation valve structure (10) for a face mask (1), characterized in that, The device includes a cover plate (11) and an exhalation valve (12) located in the middle of the cover plate. The exhalation valve includes a first multi-layer grid (13) and a second multi-layer grid (14) arranged from top to bottom. The adjacent grids in the first multi-layer grid (13) are staggered in a height direction perpendicular to the grid surface and are in contact end to end, so that there is no gap between the adjacent grids in the first multi-layer grid (13). The adjacent grids in the second multi-layer grid (14) are staggered in the height direction and spaced apart from each other, so that there is a gap (15) between the adjacent grids in the second multi-layer grid (14) in the height direction. The first multi-layer grid (13) and the second multi-layer grid (14) form a downward angle (α) with respect to the horizontal plane, and the angle (α) is in the range of 55° to 70°.

2. The exhalation valve structure (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first multi-layer grid (13) includes 2-4 grid layers, and the second multi-layer grid (14) includes 3-7 grid layers.

3. The exhalation valve structure (10) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first multi-layer grid (13) includes 3 grid layers (131, 132, 133), and the second multi-layer grid includes 5 grid layers (141, 142, 143, 144, 145).

4. The exhalation valve structure (10) according to claim 3, characterized in that, The uppermost grid (131) of the first multi-layer grid (13) contacts the lower surface (122) of the top (121) of the exhalation valve (12), the lowermost grid (133) of the first multi-layer grid (13) and the uppermost grid (141) of the second multi-layer grid (14) define a first gap (151) in the height direction, the second multi-layer grid (14) defines a second gap (152), a third gap (153), a fourth gap (154) and a fifth gap (155) in the height direction from top to bottom between adjacent grids, and the lowermost grid (145) of the second multi-layer grid (14) defines a sixth gap (156) with the upper surface (124) of the bottom (123) of the exhalation valve (12).

5. The exhalation valve structure (10) according to claim 4, characterized in that, The heights of the first gap (151), the second gap (152), the third gap (153), the fourth gap (154), the fifth gap (155), and the sixth gap (156) in the height direction show a trend of first increasing and then decreasing.

6. The exhalation valve structure (10) according to claim 4, characterized in that, The height of the first gap (151) is 1.4-2.0 mm, the height of the second gap (152) is 1.6-2.2 mm, the height of the third gap (153) is 2.0-2.6 mm, the height of the fourth gap (154) is 2.7-3.3 mm, the height of the fifth gap (155) is 2.9-3.5 mm, and the height of the sixth gap (156) is 2.1-2.7 mm.

7. The exhalation valve structure (10) according to claim 4, characterized in that, The angle (α) is approximately 63°.

8. The exhalation valve structure (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The exhalation valve structure (10) also includes a headband fixing buckle (16) and a headband adjustment buckle (17).

9. The exhalation valve structure (10) according to claim 8, characterized in that, The headband adjustment buckle (17) includes a fastened position and a loosened position. When the headband adjustment buckle (17) is in the fastened position, the exhalation valve structure (10) is in a normal wearing mode. When the headband adjustment is in the loosened position, the exhalation valve structure (10) is in a suspended wearing mode.

10. A face mask (1), characterized in that, Includes the exhalation valve structure (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

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