Protective mask with conductive fabric

Abstract

The present invention relates to a protective mask (1) comprising a mask body (10) designed to be worn by a person to cover the mouth and nose of the person, the protective mask comprising a mask body (10) having a first layer comprising an electrically conductive conductor fabric (20) and a current coupling structure (30) to which an electric current is supplied, the protective mask (1) being configured to generate a current flow through the conductor fabric by the electric current.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a protective mask having a conductive fabric for use as protection against pathogens such as viruses and bacteria. [Background technology]

[0002] Traditionally, medical face masks and particle filtering half masks are typically used as protective masks against pathogens such as viruses and bacteria.

[0003] Medical face masks are designed to protect against foreign bodies, and usually with a filter fleece, to protect the wearer's surroundings, especially from exposure to infectious droplets. In addition, these masks also protect the wearer. Depending on the fit of the medical face mask, medical face masks often do not provide sufficient protection against pathogen-containing aerosols or other small particles, because the wearer not only breathes in and out through the filter fleece, but also the breathed air may be attracted to the edges of the mask and exit through the edges as a leakage flow.

[0004] Particle filtering half masks (FFP masks or filtering facepiece masks) typically have the purpose of protecting the mask wearer from particles, droplets, and aerosols. Particle filtering half masks come in a variety of configurations. For example, there are masks without and with an exhalation valve. Masks without an exhalation valve provide both self-protection and external protection, as they filter both inhaled and exhaled air, but are primarily designed for self-protection. FFP masks with a valve provide only limited external protection, as they only filter inhaled air.

[0005] FFP masks may also have an electrostatic fabric made of fine fibers. This fabric is able to filter out or electrostatically hold particles smaller than a thousandth of a millimeter. Often such FFP masks have a separate protective shell with a mask grid, allowing a comfortable and secure fit.

[0006] In all known protective masks, most viruses and bacteria remain viable in the fabric or in the filter. Therefore, such masks must be replaced after a while. However, even with regular replacement, pathogens may still spread from the mask, especially if the mask is not properly cared for. In addition, the multiple layers of fine fabric fibers may seriously impair breathing.

[0007] The object of the present invention is therefore to propose a protective mask which efficiently eliminates or destroys pathogens such as viruses and bacteria, reduces their spread or eradicates them as completely as possible, and preferably improves comfort when worn. Summary of the Invention

[0008] According to the invention, the above object is achieved by a protective mask as defined in independent claim 1 and by the various aspects of the invention described below. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are evident from the dependent claims and the following description.

[0009] In a first aspect, the present invention is a protective mask having a mask body and a current-coupling structure. The mask body is designed to be worn by a wearer so that the mask body covers the mouth and nose of the person. The mask body has a first layer having an electrically conductive conductor fabric. An electric current can be injected into the mask body via the current-coupling structure such that a current flow occurs through the conductor fabric.

[0010] The term "conductive fabric" refers to a fabric, for example made of polyamide, among other materials, that is electrically conductive. In the narrow sense, the term includes woven fabrics, but also includes all forms of woven fabrics and nonwoven fabrics. In particular, the conductive fabric may be a nonwoven fabric. The fabric may be conductive by including conductive fibers. Alternatively or additionally, the conductivity may be increased or imparted by first coating with a metal. For example, the metal may be or have pure silver or a high percentage of silver.

[0011] The term "fiber", within the context of the present invention, includes relatively short, quasi-linear, thread-like structures as well as longer structures such as yarns and the like.

[0012] The term "current coupling structure" refers to an element or embodiment into which an electric energy source can inject and provide electric current to the conductive fabric. The current coupling structure can be designed as a current connector and can have, for example, two hanging elements to which the poles of the electric energy source can be hung. It can also be designed as a fixed wiring, for example, to which the electric energy source is connected to the conductive fabric. Alternatively, it can be a pole of a battery or similar electric energy source that is applied directly to the conductive fabric.

[0013] By designing the protective mask of the first aspect of the present invention to actively generate a current flow in the protective mask or in the mask body, pathogens such as viruses and bacteria can be rendered harmless in or through the conductive fabric. In particular, this current flow can destroy the proteins or cell walls of the pathogens. The active generation of the current flow can ensure a particularly high efficiency in the destruction of the pathogens. For example, tests have shown that even after a relatively short period of time, such as less than 5 minutes, a relatively large proportion of pathogens, such as more than 95%, remain harmless without being affected by the current flow by the wearer or user of the protective mask. Thus, the pathogens can be actively killed or neutralized and remain inactive permanently or permanently.

[0014] In contrast, pathogens in conventional masks are typically only filtered and still remain active in the mask fabric. However, in the protective mask, pathogens are neutralized as soon as they leave the mouth or nose or before they enter the mouth or nose, making it possible to prevent or minimize the spread of pathogens in any way. In this way, the respiratory air that leaves or enters is sterilized. Furthermore, the protective mask or mask body according to the present invention does not need to be replaced as frequently as conventional masks.

[0015] The protective mask may include a control unit and an electric energy source electrically connected to the current coupling structure. This electrical connection may be realized directly, for example, via a conduit or cable, or indirectly via other components. For example, the control unit may be directly electrically connected to the electric energy source and the current coupling structure, so that at the same time, the electric energy source is indirectly connected to the current coupling structure via the control unit. Thus, the electric energy source can supply electric current to the protective mask via the current coupling structure. The control unit can control the current flow through the conductor fabric or regulate the current supply as required.

[0016] The term "electrical energy source" means a source that provides electrical energy in the form of an electric current. It can be designed as a current source or a voltage source. Preferably, the electrical energy source comprises a battery, preferably rechargeable, for example a commercially available battery. Such a battery allows an easily independent and portable design of the protective mask. Additionally or alternatively, the electrical energy source may comprise a photovoltaic cell. Via such a photovoltaic cell, electricity can be directly provided to power the current coupling structure, or the battery can be charged by the photovoltaic cell.

[0017] The term "control unit" may refer to an electronic controller that controls or induces the flow of electrical current in the conductive fabric, e.g., it may switch the current flow on and off, set the magnitude of the current flow, such as the current intensity or current amplitude, or define the shape of the current flow.

[0018] The control unit and the electrical energy source can be located outside the mask body. For example, they can be connected to the current coupling structure of the mask by a cable and send the current through the cable. This can reduce the weight of the mask. In addition, the separate electrical energy source can have a higher capacity or power if it is not fastened to the mask body or is not part of the mask.

[0019] However, the electrical energy source is advantageously located in or on the mask body. For example, the electrical energy source may be embedded in the conductive fabric or may be arranged as a battery that is advantageously replaceably attached to the mask body. Alternatively, it may comprise a photovoltaic cell that can be used to convert light into electricity.

[0020] Preferably, the protective mask comprises at least one housing, and the mask body is preferably provided with at least one holder. The at least one housing is attached to the at least one holder of the mask body. In this case, the at least one housing can be detachably or removably attached to the at least one holder. The at least one housing may surround or encase the control unit and the electrical energy source when attached to the at least one holder, in this way these two components are detachably attached to the holder of the mask body by being integrated with the at least one housing. In this way, the entire protective mask can be provided as a single unit, where the electrical energy source and the control unit are protected but still replaceable or removable as required.

[0021] Preferably, the at least one housing includes two housings and the at least one holder includes two holders. Thus, the control unit can be arranged in one housing and the electric energy source in the other housing. Alternatively, one of the two housings may enclose a control unit or a component of the control unit and an electric energy source or a component of the electric energy source, and the other of the two housings may enclose a further control unit or a further component of the control unit and a further electric energy source or a further component of the electric energy source. Advantageously, the two holders are arranged on the mask body such that the housings and their contents are distributed in a balanced manner on the protective mask, thus achieving a substantially uniform weight distribution. For example, the two housings may be arranged in lateral regions of the mask body, respectively. These lateral regions may be positioned near the ears of the wearer or user when the protective mask is in use.

[0022] Preferably, the control unit and the electrical energy source are designed to inject current into the mask body in a clocked manner via the current coupling structure. The term "clocked" may refer to the fact that the current is injected into the mask body in pulses. Such pulses may thereby correspond to clock pulses. The clock pulses of current preferably last for about 2 seconds to about 10 seconds, in particular for about 5 seconds. By sending current to the mask body in a clocked manner, a pulsed current flow can be generated in the mask body or the conductive fabric. This can facilitate efficient neutralization of pathogens in the mask body to the wearer. In addition, this can reduce power consumption, thereby extending the actual operating time of the protective mask.

[0023] Furthermore, the control unit and the electrical energy source may be designed to inject various amperages of electrical current into the mask body via the current coupling structure. The current strength is typically determined or limited by the electrical resistance of the conductive fabric and the voltage provided by the electrical energy source. In this way, the efficiency of neutralizing pathogens in the mask body can be further improved.

[0024] In particular, the control unit and the electrical energy source can be designed to additionally send a current in the form of a Gaussian wave to the mask body via a current coupling structure in a clocked manner, such that the current can be applied to the mask body in the same way as an earthquake or shock wave, allowing a particularly efficient elimination of viruses and other pathogens in the mask body.

[0025] Preferably, the protective mask comprises a signal unit electrically connected to the control unit, where the control unit is designed to activate the signal unit when the capacity of the electrical energy source is below a predefined minimum capacity value. For example, the signal unit may comprise an illuminant, such as an LED, that can be used to generate a light signal. In particular, the capacity of the electrical energy source may be the charge level if the electrical energy source is provided as a battery. For example, the voltage provided by the electrical energy source may represent its capacitance. The minimum capacity value may thus be, for example, the minimum voltage provided by the electrical energy source. When the voltage provided by the electrical energy source or the battery falls below the minimum voltage, the control unit activates the signal unit. The signal unit thus allows the user or wearer of the mask to be informed of the capacity of the electrical energy source, such as the charge level of the battery. This prevents an unintentional decrease in the effectiveness of the protective mask due to an interruption or insufficient strength of the power supply.

[0026] Preferably, the protective mask has a humidity sensor electrically connected to the control unit and coupled to the conductive fabric, the control unit being designed to inject a current into the mask body via the current coupling structure when the humidity detected by the humidity sensor exceeds a predetermined base humidity value. The base humidity value can be, for example, a relative humidity in percent. The humidity in the conductive fabric can provide an indication of whether the protective mask is worn or not. When the user wears the protective mask as intended, the user breathes through the conductive fabric, thus increasing the humidity in the conductive fabric. In this way, the current flow in the conductive fabric can be automatically started as soon as the user wears the protective mask. There is no need to manually switch on or off.

[0027] Preferably, the electrical energy source includes a battery, which allows the electrical energy source to be efficiently designed to be portable. The relatively low power consumption of the protective mask allows the battery to be relatively small, allowing it to be integrated into the mask body. The battery also allows for a convenient long-term supply of electricity.

[0028] Preferably, the electrical energy source has a voltage between about 0.5 volts and about 7 volts, particularly about 3 volts or about 5 volts in one area. This allows the electrical energy source or battery to provide an adequate current flow to the mask body. In particular, when combined with the conductive fabric material described below, it can generate a current flow that allows for efficient elimination of pathogens in the mask body.

[0029] The protective mask is preferably designed to generate an electric, magnetic, or electromagnetic field (hereinafter collectively referred to as a "field") by the flow of electrical current through the conductive fabric of the mask body. The field can be defined by an electrical resistance determined by the material or structure of the conductive fabric. For example, a suitable electrical resistance can be determined using the material and structure of the conductive fabric described below.

[0030] The above-mentioned field, in addition to or instead of the current flow, can neutralize pathogens, especially those located in the conductive fabric, but also those that are somewhat close to the conductive fabric. Likewise, the field also destroys the proteins or cell walls of the pathogens. In particular, viruses are typically negatively charged and can be efficiently neutralized by the above-mentioned field. In this way, the pathogens are killed or neutralized and remain permanently inactive. In addition, the field also neutralizes pathogens that are located in the gap between the protective mask and the face of the wearer and are not filtered out. In this way, a particularly efficient destruction of the pathogens can be achieved.

[0031] In this respect, the protective mask is preferably designed so that the electric, magnetic or electromagnetic field has alternating polarity. The alternating polarity of the electric, magnetic or electromagnetic field can be efficiently generated, for example, by an alternating current. Alternatively, it can be generated by a circuit that periodically or continuously changes the polarity in the current coupling structure. This change in polarity in the field can neutralize pathogens more efficiently, and in particular more completely. For example, individual pathogens can be prevented from reaching the field under the protection of or behind other structures. Thus, even "hidden" pathogens can be reached by the change in the field.

[0032] Preferably, the electric, magnetic and / or electromagnetic fields can be generated by Gaussian waves, so that currents can be applied to the mask body in a manner similar to seismic or shock waves, allowing for a particularly efficient elimination of viruses and other pathogens in the mask body.

[0033] The conductive fabric may have polyamide or may be made from polyamide. The conductive fabric made of polyamide may be soft and stretchy, which may provide comfort to the wearer of the protective mask, and thus increase the tolerance of wearing the protective mask. In addition, polyamide may allow the conductive fabric to be designed to be relatively strong and elastic, which may ensure or improve the functionality of the protective mask. The conductive fabric may have a relatively high electromagnetic shielding performance.

[0034] The conductive fabric is preferably metallized to increase or adjust the conductivity of the electric current. The metal used for metallization may be, for example, copper, nickel, zinc, or tin. The metal may be suitably selected as needed, for example, to improve conductivity, shielding performance, corrosion prevention, or wear resistance.

[0035] Preferably, the metal used for metallization comprises or consists of silver, in particular substantially pure silver, or about 99% pure silver.Silver has electrical conductivity that allows suitable current flow under the conditions present in the protective mask.In addition, silver can already have a germicidal effect without current flow.Therefore, silver exposed to electricity can neutralize pathogens in two ways, thus increasing the efficiency of the protective mask.

[0036] For example, the conductor cloth can be metallized by adding a metal to its surface. Alternatively or complementary, the conductor cloth preferably comprises fibers, in which case the conductor cloth is metallized by laminating the fibers of the conductor cloth with a metal, in particular silver. The conductor cloth with fibers can advantageously be designed as a nonwoven. Such a nonwoven generally represents a structure made of fibers of limited length, continuous fibers or filaments, respectively, or chopped yarns of any type and origin, which fibers are somehow interlocked together to form a nonwoven, a fiber layer, or a fiber pile, respectively, and are somehow connected to each other. Typically, nonwovens do not include structures formed by the intertwining or entangling of yarns, as occurs in weaving, knitting, lacemaking, braiding, and the manufacture of tufted products. However, the conductor cloth with fibers can also be designed as a mixed form of nonwoven and other structures.

[0037] Preferably, the conductive fabric comprises carbon, and in particular carbon fibers. Carbon, and in particular carbon fibers, can be used to tailor important properties of the conductive fabric.

[0038] For example, carbon or carbon fibers can be provided in the conductive fabric to adjust or adapt the hydrophilicity or hydrophobicity of the conductive fabric. Specifically, carbon or carbon fibers have a relatively high hydrophilicity, which can provide a suitable hydrophilicity to the entire conductive fabric with any undesirable hydrophobic properties of metal-laminated fibers such as silver-laminated polyamide fibers or other fibers. This ensures that liquids or aerosols remain sufficiently suspended within the conductive fabric, thus efficiently neutralizing any pathogens present in the mask body.

[0039] Carbon or carbon fibers can also be provided to adjust the electrical resistance of the conductive fabric. For example, this can be used to compensate for a lack of electrical resistance, as is the case with metallized nonwovens, especially those made of silver-laminated polyamide fibers. Thus, the conductive fabric may have a matched electrical resistance that allows for the generation of a current flow in the mask body that can be used to effectively neutralize pathogens.

[0040] In a preferred embodiment, the conductive fabric has a back surface that faces the user's face when the protective mask is in use, and the conductive fabric is designed as a nonwoven fabric of silver-laminated polyamide fibers intertwined with carbon fibers on the back surface of the conductive fabric.

[0041] In another preferred embodiment, the conductive fabric comprises a first fabric layer of silver-laminated polyamide fiber and a second fabric layer of carbon. In addition to carbon or carbon fiber, the second fabric layer may also include other components or fibers.

[0042] The term "laminated" refers to the coating of the carrier material in any suitable form in terms of metallization of the conductor fabric. The metal, i.e. silver, can be thermally bonded to the fibers, i.e. polyamide fibers, as the carrier material. Alternatively, the carrier material, i.e. (polyamide) fibers, can be coated with the metal, i.e. silver, in an electrolytic bath (electroplating). Other similar suitable coating processes can also be used and are understood as lamination in this specification.

[0043] The conductive fabric with silver-laminated polyamide fibers thus allows a particularly high wearing comfort of the protective mask with an effect particularly adapted to the elimination of pathogens, which allows a suitably large current flow or a suitably large electric, magnetic or electromagnetic field to be generated over almost the entire surface of the mask, so that pathogens are reliably and efficiently excluded from the respiratory air or the respiratory air is efficiently sterilized.

[0044] The provision of the first and second fabric layers allows for a particularly efficient and targeted provision of the silver-polyamide braid provided with carbon. In this case, the first and second fabric layers are preferably connected to each other via a connecting layer. Such a connection allows for an efficient production of the conductor fabric. In particular, the connecting layer is preferably an adhesive layer, such as a hot melt adhesive layer.

[0045] The conductive fabric preferably has a thickness of 0.1 millimeters (mm) to 0.4 mm, 0.2 mm to 0.3 mm, or 0.26 mm to 0.272 mm. The thickness of the conductive fabric may affect the electrical resistance of the mask body. Specifically, by providing a suitable thickness of the conductive fabric according to the material of the conductive fabric, a suitable electrical resistance can be provided so that efficient detoxification of pathogens can be achieved. In addition, depending on the type of material used, the breathing resistance or breathing capacity of the mask body can be adjusted by the adapted thickness. The above-mentioned thickness range is particularly advantageous in nonwoven fabrics made of silver-laminated polyamide fibers intertwined with carbon fibers on the back side.

[0046] Preferably, the conductive fabric has an electrical resistance of at least about 8 ohms (Ω), in particular at least about 12 Ω. With such electrical resistors, a relatively high degree of wearing comfort can be achieved while providing a current flow suitable for neutralizing pathogens. In particular, with the above-mentioned conductive fabric materials and designs, electrical resistance in designated areas may be advantageous.

[0047] In this case, the electrical resistance of the conductor fabric is preferably at most about 50Ω. Such a limited electrical resistance allows a suitable current flow while at the same time preventing the current consumption from becoming too high. In particular, the use of an electrical energy source or battery that provides voltage to the above-mentioned areas allows a suitable current flow to occur and a suitable battery life to be achieved. For example, the suitable battery life may be at least one day.

[0048] The mask body may have a second layer designed as an air filter. The second layer may be an air filter according to one of the following standards: N95, FFP2, FFP3, KN95 or higher. This second layer may provide increased safety. This may be particularly advantageous if the wearer of the protective mask is himself infected with a virus or if he is in constant contact with an infected person. In addition, the air filter may be important for certification. However, the air filter is particularly important for filtering aerosols. The conductive fabric or the fields generated in it may neutralize pathogens in the aerosols captured or fixed in the air filter.

[0049] The second layer is preferably removably disposed in or on the mask body, which allows for easy insertion or removal of the second layer as required, thus allowing for easy replacement of the second layer, for example periodically.

[0050] The mask body may have a third layer constructed according to the first layer. In particular, the third layer may be substantially identical in structure to the first layer, and more importantly, may be provided with an electrically conductive conductor fabric. In this case, the protective mask has two layers of conductor fabric that neutralize pathogens. This can further increase the efficiency or effectiveness of the mask. The first and third layers are advantageously electrically coupled to each other. They can thus be collectively powered by a common electrical energy source and a common control unit.

[0051] Advantageously, the third layer is detachably connected to the first layer. For example, the first and third layers may be connected to each other by snap buttons. Such snap buttons or similar elements allow the two layers to be efficiently and conveniently fastened to each other while at the same time electrically coupling the two layers. In this way, the two layers can be efficiently powered together by an electrical energy source.

[0052] The second layer is preferably disposed between the first and third layers, so that the filter can be tightly embedded and pathogens trapped in the filter can be rendered harmless by the first and third layers.

[0053] In a second aspect, the invention is a protective mask having a mask body designed to be worn by a person to cover the mouth and nose of the person. The mask body has a first layer having an electrically conductive conductor fabric. The conductor fabric is metallized and includes carbon.

[0054] By metallizing the conductive fabric and adding carbon, an electron flow can be efficiently created between these two materials. For this purpose, the protective mask can be actively energized or excited as described above, or passively exposed to an electric, magnetic, or electromagnetic field. As a result, there may be electron jumps, which can contribute to a very effective and efficient sterilization. In particular, viruses and other pathogens held within the mask body can be efficiently eliminated. Specifically, the protective mask can filter aerosols and other fabrics from the breathing air while at the same time neutralizing viruses and other pathogens. This can take advantage of the fact that viruses are negatively charged proteins and therefore can be neutralized by electrical energy within the mask body.

[0055] Furthermore, by providing the electrically conductive fabric with carbon, the properties of the conductive fabric can be adjusted as required.

[0056] For example, carbon or carbon fibers can be provided in the conductive fabric to adjust or match the hydrophilicity or hydrophobicity of the conductive fabric. Carbon has a relatively high hydrophilicity and can reduce any undesirable hydrophobicity of a metallized conductive fabric, such as silver-laminated polyamide fibers, and provide a matched hydrophilicity throughout the conductive fabric. This ensures that liquids or aerosols remain sufficiently suspended within the conductive fabric, thus efficiently neutralizing any pathogens present in the mask body.

[0057] Carbon or carbon fibers can also be provided to adjust the electrical resistance of the conductor fabric. For example, this can be used to compensate for a lack of electrical resistance, as is the case especially in metallized nonwovens, especially those made of silver-laminated polyamide fibers. Such insufficient resistance can, for example, cause short circuit currents and / or undesirable high temperatures in the protective mask. However, the carbon in the conductor fabric allows an adapted electrical resistance to exist in the conductor fabric, which allows the generation of a static charge in the mask body or a current flow in the mask body, thereby effectively neutralizing pathogens, especially viruses.

[0058] The protective mask according to the second aspect of the present invention and its preferred embodiments described below can efficiently achieve the above-mentioned effects and advantages of the protective mask according to the first aspect of the present invention and its preferred embodiments.

[0059] Some preferred embodiments of the protective mask of the second aspect of the invention are described below, the effects and advantages of which correspond to the corresponding embodiments of the protective mask of the first aspect of the invention, unless otherwise specified below.

[0060] Preferably, the conductive fabric comprises polyamide.

[0061] Preferably, the conductive fabric comprises fibers and the conductive fabric is metallized by laminating a metal to the fibers of the conductive fabric.

[0062] The metal preferably comprises silver, especially substantially pure silver, such as at least 99% silver.

[0063] In a preferred embodiment, the conductive fabric has a back side that faces the user's face when the protective mask is in use, and the conductive fabric is designed as a nonwoven fabric of silver-laminated polyamide fibers intertwined with carbon fibers on the back side of the conductive fabric.

[0064] In a further preferred embodiment, the conductor fabric comprises a first fabric layer of silver-laminated polyamide fibers and a second fabric layer of carbon, the first and second fabric layers being preferably connected to each other via a connecting layer, which is preferably an adhesive layer, in particular a hot-melt adhesive layer.

[0065] The conductive fabric with silver-laminated polyamide fibers thus allows a particularly high wearing comfort of the protective mask with an effect particularly adapted to the elimination of pathogens, which allows a suitably large current flow or a suitably large electric, magnetic or electromagnetic field to be generated over almost the entire surface of the mask, so that pathogens are reliably and efficiently excluded from the respiratory air or the respiratory air is efficiently sterilized.

[0066] Preferably, the conductive cloth has a thickness of 0.1 mm to 0.4 mm, 0.2 mm to 0.3 mm, or 0.26 mm to 0.272 mm.

[0067] Preferably, the conductive fabric has an electrical resistance of at least about 8 ohms, in particular at least about 12 ohms, in which case the electrical resistance of the conductive fabric is preferably at most about 50 ohms.

[0068] Preferably, the mask body has a second layer designed as an air filter.

[0069] Preferably, the mask body has a third layer constructed according to the first layer, in which case the second layer is preferably disposed between the first and third layers, and the second layer is preferably removably disposed within the mask body.

[0070] In a third aspect, the present invention is a method for manufacturing a conductive fabric, particularly a conductive fabric for a mask body of a protective mask, comprising the steps of (i) providing a first fabric layer of silver-laminated polyamide fibers, (ii) providing a second fabric layer of carbon, (iii) providing a connecting layer, and (iv) connecting the first fabric layer to the second fabric layer by the connecting layer.

[0071] The method according to the invention allows the conductive fabric to be produced particularly efficiently.

[0072] Preferably, the connecting layer is an adhesive layer in step (iv), and the first fabric layer is bonded to the second fabric layer by means of the adhesive layer.

[0073] Preferably herein, the adhesive layer is a hot melt adhesive layer and step (iv) comprises heating the hot melt adhesive layer.

[0074] Preferably, step (iv) involves conveying the first fabric layer, the second fabric layer and the intervening connecting layer through two rollers, thus allowing the three layers to be subjected to controlled pressure, and optionally heat, allowing for efficient and purposeful connection of the three layers and the creation of a conductive fabric.

[0075] In this case, the two rollers can preferably be expanded, in particular in a controlled manner, so that a target pressure adapted to the connection of the first and second fabric layers by the connecting layer can be specifically generated between the rollers.

[0076] The two rollers are preferably configured to transport the first fabric layer, the second fabric layer, and the connecting layer at a speed in the range of about 10 meters / minute (m / min) to about 20 m / min, particularly about 15 m / min, per area.

[0077] Preferably, in step (iv), the first fabric layer, the second fabric layer and the connecting layer are exposed to a temperature of about 90°C to about 200°C in one area, preferably a temperature of about 140°C to about 180°C in one area, in particular a temperature of about 160°C.

[0078] In a fourth aspect, the present invention is the use of a conductive fabric produced by the method according to the invention for a protective mask, in particular a respirator, where the conductive fabric is provided in a mask body preferably designed to cover the mouth and nose of a person.

[0079] The use according to the invention makes it possible to achieve the effects and advantages mentioned above.

[0080] Further advantageous embodiments of the invention become evident from the following description of exemplary embodiments of the invention using schematic drawings. In particular, the protective mask according to the invention is described in more detail below using an example of an embodiment with reference to the attached drawings, in which: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0081] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows a protective mask according to the invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 shows a conductive fabric in a protective mask according to the present invention. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 shows a protective mask according to the invention having a power connector as a power coupling structure and a placeholder for a battery and a control unit, respectively. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 shows the housing attached to the mask body. [Diagram 5] FIG. 1 illustrates a protective mask having a housing that is removable from the mask body. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0082] Certain terms are used in the following description for practical reasons, but should not be understood as limiting. The words "right", "left", "bottom" and "top" refer to directions in the drawings to which reference is made. Terms such as "inward", "outward", "below", "above", "on the left", "on the right" are used to describe the placement of designated parts relative to one another, the movement of designated parts relative to one another, and directions toward or away from the geometric center of the invention and its designated parts, as shown in the figures. This spatial relative information includes other positions and orientations than those shown in the figures. For example, if the parts shown in the figures are inverted, an element or feature described as "below" would be "above". This term includes the words expressly mentioned above, their derivatives, and words having similar meanings.

[0083] In order to avoid repetition in the drawings and related descriptions of the various aspects and illustrative embodiments, certain features should be understood in the various aspects and illustrative embodiments in a general sense. The omission of an aspect in this specification or in the drawings does not imply that the aspect is missing in the related illustrative embodiment. Rather, such omission is made for clarity and to avoid repetition. In this respect, the following rule applies throughout the detailed description: if a reference number is included in a figure for the purpose of clarity of the figure but is not mentioned in the directly related description, please refer to the description of the previous figure for the description. If a reference number is also mentioned in the description that is directly related to the figure but not included in the corresponding figure, please refer to the previous and subsequent figures. Similar reference numbers in two or more figures represent similar or identical elements.

[0084] Fig. 1 is a diagram showing a protective mask according to the present invention. The protective mask 1 is worn by a person while covering the nose and mouth, and can purify inhaled and exhaled air through the protective mask. The protective mask has a mask body 10 that covers the nose and mouth. The mask body 10 may have a first layer made of a conductive conductor cloth 20.

[0085] FIG. 2 shows a conductor fabric 20 including a first fabric layer made of nonwoven fabric. The nonwoven fabric includes polyamide fibers laminated with nearly pure silver. The conductor fabric further includes a second fabric layer made of carbon fibers and a connecting layer connecting the nonwoven fabric and the second fabric layer. The connecting layer is a hot melt adhesive layer.

[0086] Instead of a second fabric layer, a nonwoven fabric can be intertwined with the carbon fibers on the reverse side.

[0087] The conductive cloth 20 has a thickness of about 0.27 mm and an electrical resistance of about 15 Ω.

[0088] FIG. 3 shows a protective mask 1 according to the invention. The protective mask 1 has a power connector 30 as a power coupling structure, a battery placeholder 320 or a placeholder for a battery 32 as an electric energy source in a first lateral region of the mask body 10, and a control unit placeholder 310 or a placeholder for a control unit 31 in a second opposite lateral region of the mask body 10. The battery 32, the control unit 31 and the respective placeholders 310 and 320 are electrically connected to the conductor fabric 20 via the power connection 30, thereby generating a current flow therethrough. An intermediate connection 33 or intermediate line connects the battery 32 and the control unit 31 or their placeholders 310 and 320. This allows the current flow to be switched on / off and controlled. The battery 32 has a voltage of about 5 volts.

[0089] 4 shows an example of one of the two housings 35, where the battery 32 or the control unit 31 is placed in the respective placeholder 310 and 320. The housings 35 are removably placed on the mask body 10 via the respective corresponding holders 25. The current flow is generated in the conductor fabric 20 directly by the battery 32, regulated by the control unit.

[0090] 5 shows a housing 35 with the control unit 31. The mask body 10 is detachably fastened to the holder 25. The housing 35 can be detachably fastened to the holder 25. For this purpose, the holder 25 has a locking groove 26 into which the housing can be inserted. In addition, a magnetic unit 36 ​​is provided which holds the housing 35 to the holder 25. The housing 35 can be opened in order to remove the control unit 31 therefrom. Similarly, the battery 32 and the housing 35 of the holder 25 are designed in the opposite lateral area of ​​the mask body 10.

[0091] Although the present invention has been illustrated and described in detail by the drawings and accompanying description, such illustrations and detailed descriptions should be understood as illustrative and exemplary, and not limiting of the present invention. In order not to obscure the present invention, well-known structures and techniques may not be shown or described in detail in certain cases. It is understood that those skilled in the art can make changes and modifications without departing from the scope of the following claims. In particular, the present invention covers further exemplary embodiments having any combination of features that may deviate from the combination of features explicitly described. For example, the present invention may be implemented in a form in which the battery and the control unit are separate and connected to the mask body by a cable with a power connector.

[0092] The present disclosure also includes embodiments having any combination of features mentioned or shown above or below with respect to the various embodiments. The present disclosure further includes individual features in the figures even if the individual features are shown in the figures in relation to other features and / or are not mentioned above or below. Alternatives to the embodiments shown in the figures and described herein, as well as individual alternatives to those features, may also be excluded from the subject matter of the present invention or the disclosed subject matter. The present disclosure includes embodiments that exclusively include features described in the claims or exemplary embodiments, as well as embodiments that include additional features.

[0093] Moreover, the expression "comprise" and its derivatives do not exclude other elements or steps. Similarly, the indefinite articles "a" or "an" and their derivatives do not exclude a plurality. The functions of several features recited in the claims can be performed by one unit or one step. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage. The terms "substantially", "approximately", "about", and the like, particularly when used in combination with a property or value, precisely define that property or value as well. The terms "approximately" and "about", when used in connection with a given numerical value or range, may refer to a value or range within 20%, within 10%, within 5%, or within 2% of the given value or range.

Claims

1. A protective mask (1) having a mask body (10) designed to be worn by a wearer to cover the mouth and nose of that person, The mask body (10) has a first layer having an electrically conductive conductor fabric (20), The conductor fabric (20) is metallized and contains carbon. Protective mask (1).

2. a current coupling structure (30) through which a current can be injected into the mask body (10) to generate a current flow through the conductive fabric (20); The protective mask (1) preferably comprises a control unit (31) and an electrical energy source (32) electrically connected to each other and to the current coupling structure, The protective mask (1) preferably comprises at least one housing, At least one holder is provided on the mask body, the at least one housing encloses the electrical energy source (32) and the control unit and is attached to the at least one holder of the mask body (10); The at least one housing preferably includes two housings, and the at least one holder preferably includes two holders; the control unit (31) and the electrical energy source (32) are preferably designed to send a clocked current to the mask body (10) via the current coupling structure (30), The current cycle preferably lasts for about 2 seconds to about 10 seconds, in particular about 5 seconds; the control unit (31) and the electrical energy source (32) are preferably designed to inject the current into the mask body (10) in a clocked manner in the form of a Gaussian wave via the current coupling structure (30), A protective mask (1) according to claim 1.

3. a signal unit electrically connected to the control unit; the control unit is designed to activate the signal unit when the capacity of the electrical energy source is below a predetermined minimum capacity value; The protective mask (1) preferably comprises a humidity sensor electrically connected to the control unit and coupled to the conductive fabric, the control unit is designed to inject a current into the mask body (10) via the current coupling structure (30) when the humidity determined by the humidity sensor exceeds a predetermined base humidity value; said source of electrical energy preferably comprises a battery and / or a photovoltaic cell; The electrical energy source preferably has a voltage in one region between about 0.5 volts and about 7 volts, in particular about 3 volts or about 5 volts; A protective mask (1) according to claim 2.

4. The protective mask (1) is configured to generate an electric field, a magnetic field, or an electromagnetic field by a flow of electric current through the conductive fabric of the mask body, the protective mask (1) is preferably designed so that the electric, magnetic or electromagnetic field has alternating polarity and / or so that the electric, magnetic or electromagnetic field can be generated with Gaussian waves, A protective mask (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. 5. The protective mask (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the conductor fabric comprises polyamide and / or fibers, and the conductor fabric is metallized by laminating a metal to the fibers of the conductor fabric.

6. the metal comprises silver, preferably substantially pure silver, such as at least 99% silver; The conductive cloth is preferably The protective mask has a back side facing the user's face when in use, and the conductive fabric is designed as a nonwoven fabric of silver-laminated polyamide fibers intertwined with carbon fibers on the back side of the conductive fabric; or a first fabric layer of silver-laminated polyamide fiber and a second fabric layer of carbon, the first fabric layer and the second fabric layer being preferably connected to each other via a connecting layer, the connecting layer being preferably an adhesive layer, in particular a hot melt adhesive layer; A protective mask (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The conductive cloth is having a thickness of 0.1 millimeters to 0.4 millimeters, 0.2 millimeters to 0.3 millimeters, or 0.26 millimeters to 0.272 millimeters; It has an electrical resistance of at least about 8 ohms, in particular at least about 12 ohms, and the electrical resistance of the conductor fabric is preferably at most about 50 ohms; A protective mask (1) according to any one of the preceding claims.

8. 8. The protective mask (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the mask body has a second layer designed as an air filter.

9. 9. The protective mask (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the mask body comprises a third layer that is constructed according to the first layer.

10. The second layer is disposed between the first layer and the third layer, and / or is removably provided on the mask body. A protective mask (1) according to claims 8 and 9.

11. A method for producing a conductive fabric, in particular a conductive fabric for a mask body of a protective mask according to any one of claims 1 to 10, comprising the steps of: (i) providing a first fabric layer of silver laminated polyamide fiber; (ii) providing a second fabric layer comprising carbon; (iii) providing a connection layer; and (iv) connecting the first fabric layer to the second fabric layer by the connecting layer. The method includes:

12. the connecting layer is an adhesive layer, and in step (iv), the first fabric layer is adhered to the second fabric layer by the adhesive layer; 12. The method of claim 11, wherein said adhesive layer is preferably a hot melt adhesive layer, and step (iv) preferably comprises heating said hot melt adhesive layer.

13. Step (iv) comprises conveying the first fabric layer, the second fabric layer, and the intervening connecting layer through two rollers; The two rollers preferably have inflatable, in particular inflatable in a controlled manner, and / or The first fabric layer, the second fabric layer, and the connecting layer are conveyed in one region at a speed of about 10 m / min to about 20 m / min, particularly at a speed of about 15 m / min.

13. The method according to claim 11 or 12.

14. 14. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein in step (iv) the first fabric layer, the second fabric layer and the connecting layer are exposed to a temperature of about 90°C to about 200°C in one area, preferably a temperature of about 140°C to about 180°C in one area, in particular a temperature of about 160°C.

15. 15. Use of a conductive fabric produced by the method according to any one of claims 11 to 14 in a protective mask, in particular a respirator, said conductive fabric being preferably provided in a mask body designed to cover a person's mouth and nose.

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