Surveillance system, mask system, use of a surveillance system, method for surveillance, computer program product and computer-readable medium

Abstract

The invention relates to a monitoring system (100) for monitoring the use of a face mask (110). The monitoring system (100) comprises a detection device (112) and a control unit (150). The detection device (112) is designed to process signals in order to determine a state of a face mask (110) in relation to a wearer of the face mask (110).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a monitoring system for monitoring the use of a face mask. Furthermore, the invention relates to a mask system comprising a face mask and a monitoring system. The invention also relates to the use of a monitoring system comprising a face mask, a method for monitoring the use of a face mask by a monitoring system, a computer program product, and a computer-readable medium.

[0002] A variety of face masks are known, most of which provide the user with a breathing air stream. Depending on the use and application, the different mask systems include a supply of the breathing air stream from a supply source and / or tank devices and / or a filtering of an air stream from the environment.

[0003] The currently publicly known state-of-the-art mask systems mostly do not include sensors for monitoring the use of a face mask.

[0004] Known mask systems in medical technology usually only have stationary sensors for detecting the inlet flow into a face mask. Known mask systems in the field of respiratory masks, such as those used by firefighters, mine workers, industrial personnel, and / or pilots, usually do not have any sensors for monitoring fluid flows, since healthy people are generally supplied with clean gases for breathing. The current state of the art does not monitor whether the face masks are being used and / or fitted correctly.

[0005] It is therefore an object of the present invention to remedy, or at least partially remedy, the disadvantages of the prior art described above. In particular, it is an object of the invention to provide a monitoring system with which monitoring of the use of a face mask is made particularly easy. In particular, it is also an object of the invention to provide a mask system with a face mask and a monitoring system, as well as a use of a monitoring system with a face mask, a method for monitoring the use of a face mask by a monitoring system, a computer program product, and a computer-readable medium.

[0006] The above problem is solved by the patent claims.

[0007] In particular, the problem is solved by a monitoring system having the features of independent claim 1.

[0008] Furthermore, the object is achieved by a mask system having the features of independent claim 12, by a use of a monitoring system having the features of independent claim 13, by a method for monitoring the use of a face mask having the features of independent claim 14, by a computer program product and a computer-readable medium having the features of independent claim 15.

[0009] Further advantages and details of the invention emerge from the dependent claims, the description, and the drawings. Features described in connection with the surveillance system according to the invention naturally also apply in connection with the mask system according to the invention, the use according to the invention, the method according to the invention, the computer program product according to the invention, the computer-readable medium according to the invention, and vice versa, so that with regard to the disclosure of the individual aspects of the invention, reference is always made to each other.

[0010] According to a first aspect of the invention, the object is achieved by a monitoring system for monitoring the use of a face mask. The monitoring system comprises a detection device and a control unit. The detection device is configured to detect at least one signal from at least one gas flow of the face mask. The control unit is configured to process the at least one signal detected by the detection device and to monitor the use of the face mask based on the processing.

[0011] Within the scope of the invention, monitoring the use of a face mask is preferably understood as monitoring correct use and / or the condition of the face mask on a user. The core of the invention is to preferably enable monitoring of the correct wearing of the face mask. Monitoring the use of the face mask is carried out by detecting and processing at least one signal from a gas flow of the face mask. The at least one gas flow is preferably understood as an incoming and / or outgoing gas flow into and / or from the face mask and / or the monitoring system, as described in detail in the following sections.

[0012] The detection device is designed to detect at least one signal of the at least one gas stream. For example, the detection device is designed as and / or comprises at least one flow sensor. The at least one signal is preferably to be understood as the detection of an air stream, a respiratory air stream and / or a respiratory gas stream. The detection of the at least one signal preferably comprises monitoring a volume flow of the at least one gas stream and / or monitoring the gas composition of the at least one gas stream. Preferably, the detection of the at least one signal comprises a measurement of at least one CO2 value and / or an oxygen value of the at least one gas stream.

[0013] The control unit is preferably designed as a logic unit and for receiving and / or transmitting data, in particular from the detection device. The control unit enables processing of the at least one detected signal to monitor the use of the face mask. The processing comprises, for example, an evaluation and / or a comparison of the at least one detected signal, in particular over time. The comparison of the at least one detected signal is preferably carried out with comparison data from the control unit and / or with previously detected signals. For example, the at least one signal is processed as an evaluation to detect inspiration phases and / or expiration phases of a user.

[0014] The processing preferably comprises storing and / or providing the at least one detected signal and / or the data processed therefrom by the control unit. The processing is preferably understood as an analysis and / or evaluation of the at least one detected signal. The control unit is preferably configured to output and / or provide the at least one processed signal and / or data generated therefrom to at least one output device, a storage device, and / or a server device.

[0015] The control unit and the detection device are preferably configured together in a base body and / or a housing. Alternatively, the detection device is configured separately from the control unit. The detection device is preferably connected to the control unit for data communication, either wired or wirelessly.

[0016] A monitoring system designed in this way is particularly advantageous since it is particularly easy to detect at least one signal of at least one gas flow of the face mask, which makes it particularly easy to monitor the use of a face mask.

[0017] According to a preferred further development of the invention, it can be provided in a monitoring system that the control unit is designed to differentiate between cases of use of the face mask on the basis of the processing, wherein the case differentiation of use of the face mask comprises at least the cases: - The face mask is correctly fitted and the user breathes only one input gas stream of the face mask, - the face mask is not tight and the user breathes the inlet gas stream and ambient air, - the face mask is not on and the user is only breathing ambient air.

[0018] Processing the at least one detected signal by the control unit is particularly advantageous if the control unit enables case differentiation for monitoring the use of a face mask. For this purpose, the control unit preferably comprises a differentiation device configured to differentiate the use of the face mask based on the processing.

[0019] For example, the at least one detected signal and / or a signal curve of the detection device, in particular an inspiratory and / or expiratory flow rate sensor, is evaluated in order to differentiate between the cases. For example, for the first specified case, in which the face mask is correctly applied and the user is only breathing the inlet gas flow, a clear characteristic of phases with and without flow and / or of inspiration phases and / or expiration phases can be detected by the detection device and processed by the control unit. Clearly described, the signal curves of different inspiration phases and / or expiration phases exhibit slight fluctuations in their course when the face mask is correctly applied and the user is only breathing the inlet gas flow.For example, for a processing period of two to five consecutive respiratory cycles, the flow curves and / or signals are within a tolerance range of + / - 15% at most, in particular + / - 10% at most, relative to one another. For example, an inspiratory volume and / or an expiratory volume can be determined by the control unit from the processing of the at least one detected signal. For example, in the first specified case, an integral formation is constant or essentially constant over the inspiration phases and / or expiration phases of a processing period.

[0020] The wording “X or essentially X” should be understood within the scope of the invention as a possible, minor deviation, for example due to manufacturing tolerances, material and / or process properties, without changing the underlying, intended function of the feature.

[0021] For example, the control unit is configured to determine a standard deviation and / or variance of the volumes with subsequent averaging of the volumes over several inhalation / exhalation cycles. For example, in the first specified case, the inhalation / exhalation cycles exhibit a low standard deviation and / or variance of the volumes with subsequent averaging of the volumes over several inhalation / exhalation cycles.

[0022] For the second specified case, where the face mask is not properly fitted and the user is breathing the incoming gas flow and ambient air, the control unit is preferably designed to detect a corresponding change. For example, the phases with and without flow in the signal curve are detectable by the control unit and can thus just barely be differentiated between inhalation and exhalation. The control unit is preferably designed to detect large differences in the signal curves of different inspiration phases and / or different expiration phases in the second specified case. For example, with a processing period of two to five consecutive breathing cycles, the flow curves and / or signals are within a tolerance range of more than + / - 40%, in particular more than + / - 30%, to one another. For example, in the second specified case, an integral formation over the inspiration phases and / or expiration phases of a processing period is inconsistent or substantially inconsistent. For example, in the first specified case, the inhalation / exhalation cycles have a large standard deviation and / or variance of the volumes when the volumes are subsequently averaging over several inhalation / exhalation cycles.

[0023] The second case mentioned is preferably to be understood as a face mask that is not correctly fitted or a face mask that does not form a permanent seal on the face.

[0024] For the third case, in which the face mask is not in place and the user is only breathing ambient air, the control unit is preferably configured to detect the absence of phases with and without flow in the signal curve. Clearly, in the third case, there is no flow through and / or around the detection device according to the invention. The third specified case is preferably understood as a face mask not in place.

[0025] Within the scope of the invention, it is preferably provided that the three cases specified merely represent indications for a smooth transition between the possible cases of use of the face mask.

[0026] The control unit is preferably configured to distinguish between a plurality of cases, which are characterized by way of example within the context of the three specified cases. For example, the control unit is configured to process the at least one signal detected by the detection device in such a way that the control unit provides a percentage probability of using the face mask according to at least one of the specified cases.

[0027] A monitoring system designed in this way is particularly advantageous because the case differentiation by the control unit makes it particularly easy to monitor the use of a face mask.

[0028] According to a preferred further development of the invention, it can be provided in a monitoring system that the detection device comprises an input detection device and / or an output detection device, wherein the input detection device is designed to detect a signal of an input gas flow into the face mask and / or wherein the output detection device is designed to detect a signal of an output gas flow from the face mask.

[0029] The detection device is therefore designed to detect at least one incoming and / or at least one outgoing gas flow into and / or out of the face mask. The control unit according to the invention is preferably designed to process the signal detected by the input detection device and / or by the output detection device. The above-described processing of the at least one detected signal, in particular for the above-described case differentiation, is therefore preferably carried out with the at least one signal detected by the input detection device and / or by the output detection device.

[0030] The input detection device and the output detection device are preferably configured in a common base body and / or housing. The input detection device and the output detection device are preferably configured analogously or even identically.

[0031] The input detection device and / or the output detection device are preferably connected to the control unit in a data-communicating manner.

[0032] Additionally or alternatively, the design of the detection device as an input detection device and an output detection device enables the detected signals of the input gas flow and the output gas flow to be compared with each other by the control unit.

[0033] For example, a monitoring system designed in this way enables a check of the plausibility of the case differentiation and / or the situation detection by the input detection device and the output detection device. For example, an inspiratory and an expiratory flow rate sensor are evaluated by the control unit, enabling a balancing between inspiratory volumes and exhalation volumes, or between multiple inspiratory volumes and exhalation volumes. To put it simply, the user is partially breathing ambient air if the deviations between the inspiratory volumes and exhalation volumes are > 10%.

[0034] A monitoring system designed in this way is particularly advantageous because the design of the detection device as an input detection device and / or an output detection device makes it particularly easy to monitor the use of a face mask.

[0035] According to a preferred further development of the invention, a monitoring system can be provided in which the monitoring system, in particular the detection device, comprises a pressure detection device for detecting a pressure within the face mask, wherein the control unit is configured to process the pressure detected by the pressure detection device. Monitoring of the use of a face mask is also preferably enabled by the pressure detection device.

[0036] The pressure detection device is designed to detect pressure within the face mask and thus advantageously enables monitoring of whether the face mask is correctly applied to and / or on a user. The pressure detection device can preferably be arranged at least partially within the face mask and / or a supply tube of the face mask. The pressure detection device is preferably configured together with the input detection device and / or the output detection device in a base body and / or housing.

[0037] The pressure detection device is preferably connected to the control unit for data communication. The control unit is preferably configured to process the at least one pressure detected by the pressure detection device, wherein the control unit is configured to monitor the use of the face mask based on the processing.

[0038] Preferably, a monitoring system configured in this way is designed to check the plausibility of the case differentiation and / or situation recognition by the pressure detection device, in particular an expiratory and / or inspiratory pressure detection device, through processing, in particular a signal analysis, by the control unit. For example, the monitoring system, in particular the control unit, is designed to compare pressure levels and / or signal curves of pressure levels, in particular in relation to an ambient pressure and / or to recorded inspiration and / or expiration cycles. Clearly described, the face mask is leaky or incorrectly applied if the measured value of the pressure detection device temporarily or permanently corresponds to the ambient pressure level.

[0039] The ambient pressure can preferably be provided via a data interface described below and can be used by the control unit as a comparison value.

[0040] A monitoring system designed in this way is particularly advantageous because the pressure detection device makes it particularly easy to monitor the use of a face mask.

[0041] According to a preferred further development of the invention, a monitoring system can be provided in which the detection device, the input detection device, the output detection device, and / or the pressure detection device comprise at least one coupling interface for coupling to the face mask. The monitoring system according to the invention is preferably to be understood as a retrofit monitoring system.

[0042] The monitoring system is preferably designed for detachable coupling to the face mask via the coupling interface. The detachable coupling is preferably understood to be a tool-free detachable coupling.

[0043] Known respiratory masks usually have interfaces for, for example, filter mounts and / or inhalation tubes. Additionally or alternatively, known respiratory masks usually have standardized exhalation openings, interfaces, and / or valves, so that the monitoring system, especially the coupling interface, can be advantageously adapted to known standards.

[0044] The coupling interface is preferably configured as an adapter for the face mask or for breathing tubes of the face mask. The detection device, the input detection device, the output detection device, and / or the pressure detection device can preferably be arranged and / or secured at least partially on and / or in the face mask and / or at least partially on and / or in breathing tubes of the face mask via the coupling interface.

[0045] The monitoring system preferably comprises a plurality of coupling interfaces, for example, one coupling interface each for the input detection device, the output detection device, and the pressure detection device. Alternatively, the monitoring system comprises a single, common coupling interface. For example, the coupling interface is configured as a twist lock, plug connection, bayonet lock, clip connection, and / or press fit.

[0046] The coupling interface advantageously enables the monitoring system to be retrofitted to existing face masks, particularly without interfering with the design of the face masks. A monitoring system designed in this way is particularly advantageous because the coupling interface makes monitoring the use of a face mask particularly easy.

[0047] According to a preferred further development of the invention, in a monitoring system it can be provided that the control unit comprises a storage device, wherein the storage device is designed to store the at least one signal detected by the detection device, the input detection device and / or by the output detection device and / or the pressure detected by the pressure detection device.

[0048] A monitoring system configured in this way is advantageously designed to detect, process, and store at least one signal. The monitoring system is therefore advantageously self-sufficient in its function and, for example, enables subsequent use and / or evaluation of the detected signals and data. The storage device represents an advantageous solution, particularly for applications in which an external data connection to the monitoring system is not guaranteed or not permanently guaranteed.

[0049] Described in a clear manner, the monitoring system is preferably initially understood as a data collection system and, through the storage device, enables subsequent further processing and / or evaluation of the acquired signals and data. The storage device is preferably connected to the control unit, the acquisition device, the input acquisition device, the output acquisition device, and / or the pressure acquisition device in a data-communicating manner.

[0050] The storage device is preferably configured jointly with the control unit, for example, on a common substrate and / or in a common base body and / or housing. A monitoring system configured in this way is particularly advantageous because the storage device makes monitoring the use of a face mask particularly easy.

[0051] According to a preferred further development of the invention, in a monitoring system it can be provided that the control unit comprises a comparison device, wherein the comparison device is designed to compare the signal detected by the detection device, the input detection device and / or by the output detection device and / or the pressure detected by the pressure detection device with comparison data.

[0052] The comparison data are preferably provided by the control unit and / or the storage device described above. The comparison data are preferably designed to be adjustable by a user. The comparison data are preferably to be understood as a data set from theoretical or practical tests or models and are used within the scope of the invention as comparison variables for evaluating the at least one detected signal and / or pressure. The comparison data are preferably used for the case differentiation described above and enable an analysis of the at least one detected signal and / or pressure in relation to the comparison data by the comparison device. The comparison device is preferably designed as a component of the control unit and / or arranged together with the control unit on a substrate and / or in a common base body and / or housing.

[0053] A monitoring system designed in this way is particularly advantageous because the comparison device makes it particularly easy to monitor the use of a face mask.

[0054] According to a preferred further development of the invention, a monitoring system can be provided with the control unit comprising an input data interface, wherein the input data interface is designed for data-communicating coupling with external sensor devices. Within the scope of the invention, the input data interface serves to feed data from external sensor devices into the monitoring system. For example, the input data interface is designed for data-communicating coupling of an environmental sensor device, a user sensor device, a tool sensor device, and / or a motor vehicle sensor device to the monitoring system according to the invention.

[0055] The external sensor devices preferably provide the monitoring system, in particular the control unit, with data that can be used, for example, for processing the at least one detected signal, the detected pressure, for monitoring the use of the face mask, and / or for a comparison by the comparison device. For example, a separate sensor device provides data on the ambient pressure of the environment of the monitoring system.

[0056] The input data interface enables advantageous, particularly subsequent and / or varying, supplementation of the monitoring system with separate and / or external sensor devices.

[0057] The input data interface is preferably connected to the control unit for data communication. A monitoring system designed in this way is particularly advantageous because the input data interface makes it particularly easy to monitor the use of a face mask.

[0058] According to a preferred further development of the invention, a monitoring system can be provided in which the monitoring system, in particular the detection device, the input detection device, the output detection device, the pressure detection device, and / or the control unit, is designed to be mobile and / or connectable at least in sections. As already described above, the monitoring system according to the invention is preferably to be understood as a retrofit monitoring system.

[0059] Preferably, the monitoring system comprises an energy storage device for storing and providing energy to the monitoring system in order to enable autonomous operation of the monitoring system.

[0060] Preferably, the monitoring system is designed to be portable by a user, for example in a breast pocket.

[0061] Due to its mobile design, the monitoring system preferably requires a particularly small amount of space to minimize the impact on the user's freedom of movement. The monitoring system is preferably designed to be detachably coupled to a face mask, an upper body harness, and / or an equipment suit.

[0062] A monitoring system designed in this way is particularly advantageous because the at least partially mobile and / or connectable design of the monitoring system makes it particularly easy to monitor the use of a face mask.

[0063] According to a preferred further development of the invention, it can be provided in a monitoring system that the monitoring system comprises a provision data interface, wherein the provision data interface is designed to provide the at least one signal detected by the detection device, the input detection device and / or by the output detection device and / or the pressure detected by the pressure detection device.

[0064] Within the scope of the invention, the provision data interface serves to provide the recorded, processed, and / or stored signals and / or data of the monitoring system. Provision occurs, for example, to a separate logic unit, storage unit, and / or server unit. The provision data interface preferably enables transmission of the data of the monitoring system to further devices separate from the monitoring system. Clearly described, the provision data interface enables, for example, the use of a docking station, wherein the provision data interface is connectable to the docking station, thus enabling data transmission from the monitoring system.

[0065] Optionally, the provision data interface further enables data transmission to the monitoring system, for example, the comparison data described above. The provision data interface is preferably configured separately from the previously described input data interface. A monitoring system configured in this way is particularly advantageous because the provision data interface makes it particularly easy to monitor the use of a face mask and provide the acquired signals and data.

[0066] According to a preferred further development of the invention, a monitoring system can be provided which comprises an output device, wherein the output device is designed to output at least one request, in particular wherein the request can be output based on the signal detected by the detection device, the input detection device and / or by the output detection device and / or based on the pressure detected by the pressure detection device. The output device is preferably designed to visually, optically, haptically and / or acoustically output at least one request. The output device is particularly preferably designed as a vibration device. In the context of the invention, a request is to be understood, for example, as a request to correctly put on the face mask.The prompt is designed, for example, as a defined sequence of outputs, particularly vibrations, from the output device. For example, the monitoring system with the output device enables a simple prompt for the correct application of the face mask or even breathing exercises for the user.

[0067] For example, a monitoring system designed in this way enables the user to initiate and / or coordinate action sequences based on a predefined schedule and / or upon the occurrence of certain predefined events in practice, as well as to monitor and / or record compliance with the procedures. Based on the enhanced monitoring, the monitoring system suggests, for example, an alternative prompt and / or repetitions of the previous prompt.

[0068] The requests are preferably made on the basis of the signal detected by the detection device, the input detection device and / or by the output detection device and / or on the basis of the pressure detected by the pressure detection device and / or on the basis of a comparison that has been made.

[0069] The prompts are preferably issued by the control unit. The output device is preferably connected to the control unit for data communication. A monitoring system configured in this way is particularly advantageous because the output device makes it particularly easy to monitor the use of a face mask and interact with a user based on the monitoring.

[0070] According to a second aspect of the invention, the object is achieved by a mask system comprising a face mask and a monitoring system according to the first aspect. The described mask system provides all the advantages already described for the monitoring system according to the first aspect of the invention. The face mask preferably comprises a counter interface for detachable coupling to the coupling interface.

[0071] The face mask is preferably designed as a respiratory protection mask. The face mask is designed as a full-face mask or a half-mask. The face mask is preferably designed for placement, in particular for sealing placement, on a user's face. The placement on a user's face preferably includes the face mask covering the user's mouth and / or nose. The face mask preferably comprises at least one breathing tube for the fluid-communicating supply and / or discharge of respiratory gases to and / or from the face mask.

[0072] Within the scope of the invention, the at least one breathing tube is defined as a component of the face mask and / or the monitoring system. A mask system configured in this way is particularly advantageous because the monitoring system enables particularly simple and advantageous monitoring of the use of the face mask, particularly after retrofitting.

[0073] According to a third aspect of the invention, the object is achieved by using the monitoring system according to the first aspect with a face mask. The described use provides all the advantages already described for the monitoring system according to the first aspect of the invention or for the mask system according to the second aspect of the invention.

[0074] According to a fourth aspect of the invention, the object is achieved by a method for monitoring the use of a face mask by a monitoring system. The monitoring system is configured in particular according to the first aspect. The method comprises: - detecting at least one signal of at least one gas flow of the face mask by a detection device of a monitoring system, - processing of the signal detected by the detection device by a control unit of the monitoring system, - Monitoring the use of the face mask based on the processing.

[0075] The described method provides all the advantages that have already been described for the monitoring system according to the first aspect of the invention or for the mask system according to the second aspect of the invention.

[0076] Unless explicitly stated otherwise, the procedural steps described above and below can be performed individually, together, once, multiple times, in parallel, and / or consecutively in any order. Designation as, for example, "first procedural step" and "second procedural step" does not imply any chronological order and / or prioritization. A preferred sequence of the procedural steps stipulates that the procedural steps are performed in the order listed.

[0077] The detecting preferably comprises detecting a signal of an input gas flow into the face mask by an input detecting device of the monitoring system, detecting a signal of an output gas flow from the face mask by an output detecting device of the monitoring system and / or detecting a pressure within the face mask by a pressure detecting device of the monitoring system.

[0078] Furthermore, the method preferably comprises providing the acquired and / or processed signals and / or data via the provision data interface of the monitoring system.

[0079] Furthermore, the method preferably comprises a comparison of the signal detected by the detection device, the input detection device and / or by the output detection device and / or the pressure detected by the pressure detection device with comparison data.

[0080] Furthermore, the method preferably comprises receiving data from at least one external sensor device through the input data interface, in particular wherein the data of the at least one external sensor device are processed by the control unit for monitoring the use of the face mask.

[0081] A method designed in this way is particularly advantageous since the monitoring system enables particularly simple and advantageous monitoring of the use of the face mask, particularly after retrofitting.

[0082] According to a fifth aspect of the invention, the object is achieved by a computer program product for monitoring the use of a face mask by the monitoring system according to the first aspect or by the mask system according to the second aspect. The computer program product comprises instructions that cause the monitoring system or the mask system to execute the method according to the fourth aspect. The described computer program product provides all the advantages that have already been described for the monitoring system according to the first aspect of the invention, for the mask system according to the second aspect of the invention, or for the method according to the fourth aspect of the invention.

[0083] Thus, a computer program product according to the invention brings with it the same advantages as have already been described in detail with reference to a method according to the invention. The method can, in particular, be a computer-implemented method. The computer program product can be implemented as computer-readable instruction code in any suitable programming language, such as JAVA, C++, C#, and / or Python. The computer program product can be stored on a computer-readable storage medium such as a data disk, a removable drive, a volatile or non-volatile memory, or a built-in memory / processor.

[0084] The instruction code can influence or control a computer or other programmable devices, such as a computing unit of a detection device, such that the instructions are executed. Furthermore, the computer program product can be made available on a network, such as the Internet, from which it can be downloaded by a user as needed. The computer program product can be implemented using software or one or more special electronic circuits, i.e., in hardware or in any hybrid form, i.e., using software components and hardware components.

[0085] According to a sixth aspect of the invention, the object is achieved by a computer-readable medium on which the computer program product according to the fifth aspect is stored. The described computer-readable medium provides all the advantages already described for the computer program product according to the fifth aspect of the invention or for the method according to the fourth aspect of the invention.

[0086] A monitoring system according to the invention for monitoring the use of a face mask, a mask system with a face mask and a monitoring system, a use of a monitoring system with a face mask, a method for monitoring the use of a face mask by a monitoring system, a computer program product and a computer-readable medium are explained in more detail below with reference to drawings.

[0087] They show schematically: Fig. 1 in a perspective view a mask system with a face mask and a monitoring system, Fig. 2 in a plan view a mask system with a face mask and a monitoring system, Fig. 3 shows a flowchart of a method according to the invention for monitoring the use of a face mask and Fig. 4 shows a perspective view of a computer program product and a computer-readable medium.

[0088] Elements with the same function and mode of action are listed in the Fig. 1 to 4 are each provided with the same reference numerals.

[0089] In Fig. 1 schematically shows a perspective view of a mask system 190 with a face mask 110 and a monitoring system 100. The monitoring system 100 is designed to monitor the use of the face mask 110. The monitoring system 100 comprises two detection devices 112 and a control unit 150, wherein the detection devices 112 are each designed to detect a signal of a different gas flow 114 of the face mask 110. The control unit 150 is designed to process the signals detected by the detection devices 112. The control unit 150 is further designed to monitor the use of the face mask 110 based on the processing. The control unit 150 is therefore designed to differentiate between the use of the face mask 110 based on the processing, wherein the differentiation between the use of the face mask 110 includes the following cases: - The face mask 110 is correctly applied and the user breathes only one input gas stream 122 of the face mask 110, - the face mask 110 is not tight and the user breathes the inlet gas stream 122 and ambient air, - the face mask 110 is not worn and the user is only breathing ambient air.

[0090] The two detection devices 112 are configured as an input detection device 120 and an output detection device 130, wherein the input detection device 120 is configured to detect a signal of an input gas flow 122 into the face mask 110 and wherein the output detection device 130 is configured to detect a signal of an output gas flow 132 from the face mask 110.

[0091] The monitoring system 100 further comprises a pressure detection device 140 for detecting a pressure 142 within the face mask 110. The control unit 150 is configured to process the pressure 142 detected by the pressure detection device 140 and is connected thereto for data communication.

[0092] The control unit 150 comprises an input data interface 156, wherein the input data interface 156 is designed for data-communicating coupling with external sensor devices.

[0093] The monitoring system 100, here the control unit 150, comprises a provision data interface 160, wherein the provision data interface 160 is designed to provide the signal detected by the detection devices 112, here the input detection device 120 and the output detection device 130, and the pressure 142 detected by the pressure detection device 140.

[0094] In Fig. Figure 2 schematically shows a top view of a mask system 190 comprising a face mask 110 and a monitoring system 100. The monitoring system 100 is configured to monitor the use of the face mask 110. The monitoring system 100 comprises a detection device 112 and a control unit 150, wherein the detection device 112 is configured to detect a signal of a gas flow 114 of the face mask 110.

[0095] The control unit 150 is configured to process the signal detected by the detection device 112. The control unit 150 is further configured to monitor the use of the face mask 110 based on the processing. The detection device 112 is configured as an input detection device 120, wherein the input detection device 120 is configured to detect a signal of an input gas flow 122 into the face mask 110.

[0096] The monitoring system 100 further comprises a pressure detection device 140 for detecting a pressure 142 within the face mask 110. The control unit 150 is designed to process the pressure 142 detected by the pressure detection device 140 and is designed jointly therewith.

[0097] The detection device 112, the input detection device 120 and the pressure detection device 140 comprise two coupling interfaces 180 for coupling to the face mask 110, here to a breathing tube of the face mask 110. The monitoring system 100 is designed to be mobile and connectable.

[0098] The control unit 150 comprises a storage device 152 for storing the signal detected by the detection device 112, here the input detection device 120, and the pressure 142 detected by the pressure detection device 140.

[0099] The control unit 150 further comprises a comparison device 154, wherein the comparison device 154 is designed to compare the signal detected by the detection device 112, here by the input detection device 120, and the pressure 142 detected by the pressure detection device 140 with comparison data.

[0100] The monitoring system 100 comprises an output device 170, wherein the output device 170 is configured to output a request, wherein the request can be output based on the signal detected by the detection device 112, here the input detection device 120, and based on the pressure 142 detected by the pressure detection device 140.

[0101] In Fig. 3 is a schematic flowchart showing an embodiment of the method 200 according to the invention. For improved clarity, Fig. 3, only the reference numerals of the method steps are indicated. The method 200 comprises, in a first method step, detecting 202 a signal of a gas flow 114 of the face mask 110 by a detection device 112 of a monitoring system 100. The method 200 comprises, in a further method step, processing 204 the signal detected by the detection device 112 by a control unit 150 of the monitoring system 100.

[0102] The method 200 comprises, in a further method step, monitoring 206 the use of the face mask 110 based on the processing.

[0103] In Fig.Figure 4 schematically shows a perspective view of a computer program product 300 and a computer-readable medium 400. The computer program product 300 is configured to monitor the use of a face mask 110 by a monitoring system 100 according to the invention such that the computer program product 300 includes instructions that cause the monitoring system 100 to execute the method 200 according to the invention (not shown). The computer program product 300 is stored on the computer-readable medium 400. List of reference symbols 100 surveillance system 110 face mask 112 Detection device 114 Gas flow 120 Input detection device 122 Inlet gas flow 130 Output detection device 132 Output gas flow 140 Pressure detection device 142 prints 150 control unit 152 storage device 154 Comparison device 156 Input data interface 160 Provisioning Data Interface 170 Dispensing device 180 coupling interface 190 mask system 200 procedures 202 Capture 204 Process 206 Monitoring 300 computer program product 400 Computer-readable medium

Claims

[1] Monitoring system (100) for monitoring the use of a face mask (110), the monitoring system (100) comprising a detection device (112) and a control unit (150), wherein the detection device (112) is designed to detect at least one signal of at least one gas flow (114) of the face mask (110), wherein the control unit (150) is designed to process the at least one signal detected by the detection device (112), and wherein the control unit (150) is designed to monitor the use of the face mask (110) on the basis of the processing. [2] Monitoring system (100) according to claim 1, characterized by that the control unit (150) is designed to distinguish between cases of use of the face mask (110) on the basis of the processing, wherein the case distinction of use of the face mask (110) comprises at least the cases: - The face mask (110) is correctly fitted and the user breathes only one input gas stream (122) of the face mask (110), - the face mask (110) is not tight and the user breathes the inlet gas stream (122) and ambient air, - the face mask (110) is not worn and the user is only breathing ambient air. [3] Monitoring system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the detection device (112) comprises an input detection device (120) and / or an output detection device (130), wherein the input detection device (120) is designed to detect a signal of an input gas flow (122) into the face mask (110) and / or wherein the output detection device (130) is designed to detect a signal of an output gas flow (132) from the face mask (110). [4] Monitoring system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the monitoring system (100), in particular the detection device (112), comprises a pressure detection device (140) for detecting a pressure (142) within the face mask (110), wherein the control unit (150) is designed to process the pressure (142) detected by the pressure detection device (140). [5] Monitoring system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the detection device (112), the input detection device (120), the output detection device (130) and / or the pressure detection device (140) comprise at least one coupling interface (180) for coupling to the face mask (110). [6] Monitoring system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the control unit (150) comprises a storage device (152), wherein the storage device (152) is designed to store the at least one signal detected by the detection device (112), the input detection device (120) and / or by the output detection device (130) and / or the pressure (142) detected by the pressure detection device (140). [7] Monitoring system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by in that the control unit (150) comprises a comparison device (154), wherein the comparison device (154) is designed to compare the signal detected by the detection device (112), the input detection device (120) and / or by the output detection device (130) and / or the pressure (142) detected by the pressure detection device (140) with comparison data. [8] Monitoring system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the control unit (150) comprises an input data interface (156), wherein the input data interface (156) is designed for data-communicating coupling with external sensor devices. [9] Monitoring system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the monitoring system (100), in particular the detection device (112), the input detection device (120), the output detection device (130), the pressure detection device (140) and / or the control unit (150), is designed to be mobile and / or coupleable at least in sections. [10] Monitoring system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized byin that the monitoring system (100) comprises a provision data interface (160), wherein the provision data interface (160) is designed to provide the at least one signal detected by the detection device (112), the input detection device (120) and / or by the output detection device (130) and / or the pressure (142) detected by the pressure detection device (140). [11] Monitoring system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the monitoring system (100) comprises an output device (170), wherein the output device (170) is designed to output at least one request, in particular wherein the request can be output on the basis of the signal detected by the detection device (112), the input detection device (120) and / or by the output detection device (130) and / or on the basis of the pressure (142) detected by the pressure detection device (140). [12] Mask system (190) comprising a face mask (110) and a monitoring system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims. [13] Use of a surveillance system (100) according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 11 with a face mask (110). [14] Method (200) for monitoring the use of a face mask (110) by a monitoring system (100), in particular according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 11, the method (200) comprising: - detecting (202) at least one signal of at least one gas flow (114) of the face mask (110) by a detecting device (112) of a monitoring system (100), - processing (204) of the signal detected by the detection device (112) by a control unit (150) of the monitoring system (100), - Monitoring (206) the use of the face mask (110) on the basis of the processing. [15] Computer program product (300) or computer-readable medium (400) on which the computer program product (300) is stored, wherein the computer program product (300) is designed to monitor a use of a face mask (110) by the monitoring system (100) according to one of claims 1 to 11 or the mask system (190) according to claim 12, wherein the computer program product (300) comprises instructions which cause the monitoring system (100) or the mask system (190) to carry out the method (200) according to claim 14.

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