Techniques for controlling the opening and closing of protective masks

Abstract

A technique is described for controlling an actuator of a protective mask configured to selectively assume a closed state and an open state for respiratory protection. The respiratory airflow resistance in the open state is reduced compared to the respiratory airflow resistance in the closed state. With respect to the method aspect of the technique, at least one information signal indicative of an environment of the protective mask is received. A control signal is sent to the actuator of the protective mask to selectively assume the closed state and the open state in response to the at least one information signal.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to techniques for controlling an actuator of a protective mask. More specifically, and without limitation, methods and devices for controlling an actuator of a protective mask that selectively assumes a closed or open state for respiratory protection, and methods and devices for assuming such states are provided. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventional protective masks, such as "facial masks" or "community masks", are either a simple piece of fabric or a more complex filtering material that must be worn on the user's face by hand, for example with elastic strings, to cover at least the user's mouth and nose.

[0003] Document US8,336,114B1 describes a further conventional protective mask with a head mount that is manually adjustable to the user's head size. The head mount pivotally supports a transparent screen that can be displaced by manually rotating it around a horizontal axis that has fixing points on both sides of the head. In the closed state, the screen is positioned vertically in front of the user's face. In the open state, the screen is positioned horizontally above the user's head.

[0004] Face masks have evolved into wearable technology. For example, D. Rangel et al., in the scientific paper "Implementing air flow sensor in a medical mask for breathing detection", Health Technol. 10, 405-410 (2020), describe the implementation of an airflow sensor in a face mask to detect hypoventilation by measuring the breathing frequency of the user wearing the mask. The mask must be put on and removed by hand.

[0005] Users of such conventional masks must use their hands and must sterilize them before temporarily putting on or taking off the mask. Furthermore, users may forget to put on the protective mask when entering an area where wearing a mask is mandatory, and users may not have enough time to sterilize their hands before putting the protective mask on their face, for example in an emergency, and / or may not be able to use their hands because they are carrying something heavy, for example a patient on a stretcher. Furthermore, the mask may become contaminated or damaged while the user is not wearing it on the face. For example, some users have the habit of keeping the protective mask on their arm when the mask is not mandatory.

[0006] The online article "This high-tech face mask opens and closes with the touch of a button", Ronny Koenig, published May 20, 2020, on the webpage today.com, contains a video of a mask device designed by Asaf Gitelis. The mask device comprises a button connected by a Bowden cable to a modified surgical face mask in order to open and close the mask along a horizontal slit for eating and drinking without having to remove the mask from the nose and mouth by hand. However, to use such a mask device, one hand is always occupied by the button. Moreover, the mechanical connection between the face mask and the button increases the weight of the bulky mask device, which has a considerable impact on the user's mobility.

[0007] The online article "This Robotic Face Mask Can Automatically Open and Close If There Are People Around", Tyler Lee, published May 21, 2020, on the webpage ubergizmo.com, refers to a video published on the online video sharing platform "YouTube" under the name "DesignMaker". The mask is equipped with a motion sensor to detect any movement relative to the mask and open or close a flap in front of the mask accordingly. As a result, any movement of the mask will trigger the flap to close, and if there is no movement, the mask will always keep the flap open. Summary of the Invention

[0008] Therefore, there is a need for a technique that prevents contamination or damage to a protective mask when the user temporarily removes the protective mask. An alternative or additional object is to prevent a user from forgetting to put on a protective mask when respiratory protection is needed.

[0009] With respect to a first method aspect, a method is provided for controlling an actuator of a protective mask. The protective mask is configured to selectively assume a closed state and an open state for respiratory protection. In the open state, a respiratory airflow resistance is reduced compared to the respiratory airflow resistance in the closed state. The method includes or initiates the step of receiving at least one information signal indicative of an environment of the protective mask. The method further includes or initiates the step of sending a control signal to an actuator of the protective mask for selectively assuming the closed state and the open state in response to the at least one information signal.

[0010] The first method aspect may be performed by a control device, which may be included in and / or embodied by a user equipment (UE).

[0011] With respect to a second method aspect, a method is provided for selectively assuming a closed state and an open state for respiratory protection, the open state having a reduced respiratory airflow resistance compared to the closed state. The method is implemented by a protective mask including an actuator for selectively assuming the closed state and the open state. The method includes or initiates, at the actuator of the protective mask, a control signal for selectively assuming the closed state and the open state. The method further includes or initiates, in response to the received control signal, selectively assuming the closed state and the open state of the protective mask with the actuator.

[0012] Regarding another aspect, a computer program product is provided. The computer program product comprises program code portions for performing any one of the steps of the method aspects disclosed herein when the computer program product is executed by one or more computing devices. The computer program product may be stored in a computer-readable recording medium. The computer program product may also be provided for downloading, for example, via a wireless network, a RAN, the Internet, and / or a host computer. Alternatively or additionally, the method may be coded in a field programmable gate array (FPGA) and / or an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or the function may be provided for downloading using a hardware description language.

[0013] With respect to the first device aspect, a control device is provided for controlling an actuator of a protective mask, the actuator being configured to selectively assume a closed state for respiratory protection and an open state in which the respiratory airflow resistance is reduced compared to the closed state. The control device may be configured to perform any one of the steps of the first method aspect. Alternatively or additionally, the control device may comprise an information signal receiving unit configured to receive at least one information signal indicative of the environment of the protective mask.

[0014] Regarding the second device embodiment, a protective mask is provided. The protective mask comprises an actuator for selectively assuming a closed state for respiratory protection and an open state in which respiratory airflow resistance is reduced compared to the closed state. The protective mask may be configured to perform any one of the steps of the second method embodiment. Alternatively or additionally, the protective mask may comprise a control signal receiving unit configured to receive a control signal for selectively assuming the closed state and the open state at the actuator of the protective mask. The protective mask may further comprise an actuator unit configured to selectively assume the closed state and the open state of the protective mask by means of the actuator in response to the received control signal.

[0015] With respect to a further first device aspect, a control device is provided for controlling an actuator of a protective mask configured to selectively assume a closed state for respiratory protection and an open state in which respiratory airflow resistance is reduced compared to the closed state. The control device comprises a processing circuit (e.g., at least one processor) and a memory. The memory may include (e.g., be operable to store) instructions executable by the processing circuit, whereby the control device is operative to receive at least one information signal indicative of an environment of the protective mask and to send a control signal to the actuator of the protective mask to selectively assume the closed state and the open state in response to the at least one information signal. The control device may further be operative to perform any of the steps of the first method aspect.

[0016] In accordance with a further second device aspect, a protective mask is provided. The protective mask comprises an actuator for selectively assuming a closed state for respiratory protection and an open state in which respiratory airflow resistance is reduced compared to the closed state. The protective mask comprises a processing circuit (e.g., at least one processor) and a memory. The memory may include (e.g., may be operable to store) instructions executable by the processing circuit, whereby the protective mask is operative to receive a control signal at an actuator of the protective mask for selectively assuming the closed state and the open state, and to selectively assume the closed state and the open state of the protective mask using the actuator in response to the received control signal. The protective mask may further be operative to perform any of the steps of the second method aspect.

[0017] In accordance with yet another aspect, a communication system is provided that includes a host computer. The host computer may comprise a processing circuit configured to provide user data in response to a position of a control device (e.g., a user equipment (UE)) or a protective mask, for example determined based on at least one information signal. The host computer may further comprise a communication interface configured to transfer the user data to a cellular network (e.g., a wireless network) for transmission to the control device (e.g., the UE), the control device comprising a wireless interface and a processing circuit configured to perform any one of the steps of the first and / or second method aspects.

[0018] The communication system may further include a control device (e.g., a UE). Alternatively or additionally, the cellular network may further include one or more base stations and / or gateways configured to communicate with the control device and / or provide a data link between the control device and a host computer using the first method aspect and / or the second method aspect.

[0019] The processing circuitry of the host computer may be configured to execute a host application and thereby provide user data and / or any of the host computer functions described herein. Alternatively or in addition, the processing circuitry of the controlling device (e.g., UE) may be configured to execute a client application associated with the host application.

[0020] Any one of the devices, control equipment (e.g., UE), protective mask, base station, system, or any node or station embodying the technique may further include any feature disclosed in the context of the method aspects, and vice versa. In particular, any unit and module may be configured to perform or initiate one or more of the steps of the method aspects.

[0021] Further details of embodiments of the technique are described with reference to the enclosed drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0022] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram illustrating one embodiment of a control device for controlling an actuator of a protective mask configured to selectively assume a closed state for respiratory protection and an open state in which respiratory airflow resistance is reduced compared to the closed state. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram illustrating an embodiment of a protective mask with an actuator for selectively assuming a closed state for respiratory protection and an open state in which respiratory airflow resistance is reduced compared to the closed state. [Diagram 3] 2 is a flow chart illustrating an embodiment of a method for controlling an actuator of a protective mask configured to selectively assume a closed state for respiratory protection and an open state in which respiratory airflow resistance is reduced compared to the closed state, which may be implemented by the control device of FIG. 1 . [Figure 4]3 is a flow chart illustrating an embodiment of a method for selectively assuming a closed state for respiratory protection and an open state in which respiratory airflow resistance is reduced compared to the closed state, which may be implemented by the protective mask of FIG. [Diagram 5] 3 is a schematic block diagram illustrating a system including an embodiment of the control device and protective mask of FIGS. 1 and 2, respectively, for controlling and selectively assuming a closed state and an open state, respectively. FIG. [Figure 6] A diagram illustrating a schematic example of at least one information signal indicative of the environment of a protective mask that may be received by an embodiment of the control device of Figure 1 and / or acquired and transferred by an embodiment of the protective mask of Figure 2. [Figure 7] 7A and 7B are schematic diagrams illustrating examples of at least one information signal indicating the environment of a protective mask, which may include at least one information signal of FIG. 6, depending on which control signal for opening or closing the protective mask may be sent from the control device of FIG. 1 to the protective mask of FIG. 2. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 shows an example flow chart for controlling an actuator of a protective mask in response to one type of information signal, which may be combined into a decision tree including different types of information signals. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 shows an example flow chart for controlling an actuator of a protective mask in response to one type of information signal, which may be combined into a decision tree including different types of information signals. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 shows an example flow chart for controlling an actuator of a protective mask in response to one type of information signal, which may be combined into a decision tree including different types of information signals. [Figure 11] FIG. 13 shows an example flow chart for controlling an actuator of a protective mask in response to one type of information signal, which may be combined into a decision tree including different types of information signals. [Figure 12]12A and 12B respectively show a first embodiment of a protective mask having an actuator for selectively assuming a closed state for respiratory protection and an open state in which respiratory airflow resistance is reduced compared to the closed state. [Figure 13] 13A and 13B respectively show a second embodiment of a protective mask having an actuator for selectively assuming a closed state for respiratory protection and an open state in which respiratory airflow resistance is reduced compared to the closed state. [Figure 14] 14A and 14B respectively show a third embodiment of a protective mask having an actuator for selectively assuming a closed state for respiratory protection and an open state in which respiratory airflow resistance is reduced compared to the closed state. [Figure 15] 2 is a schematic block diagram illustrating an embodiment of a control device embodying the control device of FIG. 1; [Figure 16] 3 is a schematic block diagram illustrating an embodiment of a protective mask embodying the protective mask of FIG. 2. [Figure 17] FIG. 1 illustrates generally one embodiment of a communications network connected to a host computer through an intermediate network for providing at least one information signal. [Figure 18] FIG. 2 is a generalized block diagram illustrating an embodiment of a host computer communicating, in part, over a wireless connection, through an embodiment of a wireless device functioning as a base station or gateway, with an embodiment of user equipment, which may embody the control equipment of FIG. [Figure 19] 1 is a flow chart illustrating an embodiment of a method implemented in a communication system including a host computer, a wireless device acting as a base station or gateway, and an embodiment of user equipment. [Figure 20] 1 is a flow chart illustrating an embodiment of a method implemented in a communication system including a host computer, a wireless device acting as a base station or gateway, and an embodiment of user equipment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0023] In the following description, for purposes of explanation and not limitation, specific details are described, such as a specific network environment, to provide a thorough understanding of the techniques disclosed herein. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the techniques may be practiced in other embodiments that deviate from these specific details. Furthermore, although the following embodiments mainly describe New Radio (NR) or 5G implementations, it is readily apparent that the techniques described herein may also be implemented for any other wireless communication techniques, including 3GPP LTE (e.g., LTE Advanced, or related radio access techniques such as MulteFire) in wireless local area networks (WLANs) according to the standard family IEEE 802.11, for Bluetooth according to the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG), particularly Bluetooth low energy, Bluetooth mesh networking, and Bluetooth broadcasting, for Z-Wave according to the Z-Wave Alliance, or for ZigBee based on IEEE 802.15.4.

[0024] Furthermore, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the functions, steps, units, and modules described herein may be implemented using software working in conjunction with a microcontroller, a programmed microprocessor, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a digital signal processor (DSP), or a general purpose computer including, for example, an advanced RISC machine (ARM). Also, although the following embodiments are described primarily in the context of involving methods and devices, it will be understood that the present invention may also be embodied in a computer program product, as well as in a system comprising at least one computer processor and a memory coupled to the at least one processor, the memory being encoded with one or more programs that may perform the functions and steps or realize the units and modules disclosed herein.

[0025] 1 shows a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a control device for controlling an actuator of a protective mask configured to selectively assume a closed state for respiratory protection and an open state in which respiratory airflow resistance is reduced compared to the closed state. The control device is generally referred to by the reference numeral 100.

[0026] The control device 100 comprises an information signal receiving unit 102, which is arranged to receive at least one information signal indicative of the environment of the protective mask.

[0027] The control device 100 further comprises a control signal sending unit 106 configured to send a control signal to the actuator of the protective mask to selectively assume a closed state and an open state in response to at least one information signal.

[0028] Controlling an actuator of the protective mask to selectively assume a closed state and an open state in response to at least one received information signal indicative of the environment of the protective mask can, in at least some embodiments, prevent a user from forgetting to put on the protective mask, for example, when in an environment requiring respiratory protection.

[0029] This or further embodiment may use an actuator to assume the open state in response to at least one information signal indicative of the mask environment, thereby preventing the protective mask from becoming contaminated or damaged while the protective mask is removed by the user.

[0030] This or further embodiments may increase the usage time (i.e., life or mask wear time) of the protective mask, for example, by minimizing the total time that air is filtered through the protective mask during the mask wear time, for example, by assuming a closed state only when necessary in accordance with at least one information signal.

[0031] Optionally, the control device 100 comprises an information signal evaluation unit 104, which is arranged to evaluate at least one received information signal in relation to local requirements for respiratory protection.

[0032] Any of the units of the receiving control device 100 may be realized by a module configured to provide a corresponding function.

[0033] The control device 100 may also be referred to as or embodied by a user equipment (UE). The control device 100 and the actuator of the protective mask are in communication (e.g., wireless or wired) for sending control signals at least at the control device 100.

[0034] 2 shows a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of a protective mask with an actuator for selectively assuming a closed state for respiratory protection and an open state in which respiratory airflow resistance is reduced compared to the closed state. The protective mask is generally referred to by the reference numeral 200.

[0035] The protective mask 200 includes a control signal receiving unit 206 configured to receive a control signal for selectively assuming a closed state and an open state at an actuator of the protective mask.

[0036] The protective mask 200 further comprises an actuator unit 208 configured to selectively assume, by means of an actuator, a closed or open state of the protective mask in response to a received control signal.

[0037] Optionally, the protective mask 200 comprises an information signal acquiring unit 202, configured to acquire at the protective mask at least one information signal indicative of the environment of the protective mask.

[0038] Further optionally, the protective mask 200 comprises an information signal emitting unit 204 arranged to emit at least one information signal indicative of the environment of the protective mask from the protective mask to the control device 100. The control signal may for example be received from the control device in response to the emission of the at least one information signal.

[0039] Any of the units of the protective mask 200 may be realized by a module configured to provide a corresponding function.

[0040] The mask 200 and the control device 100 may be in communication (eg, wireless or wired) for receiving control signals at least at the mask 200 .

[0041] The control signal and / or the at least one information signal may comprise any of the features disclosed in the context of the control device 100.

[0042] The closed state may provide respiratory protection, and the open state may be an alternative to or equivalent to removing the mask.

[0043] The actuator of the protective mask may be controlled without manual input to selectively assume the closed and open states. Alternatively or additionally, the actuator of the protective mask may be controlled taking into account one or more environmental information indicated by at least one information signal to selectively assume the closed and open states.

[0044] The evaluating may include tracking objects (e.g., people and / or wireless devices) in the environment. Alternatively or additionally, the evaluating may include maintaining an object list of objects in the environment. Control signals may be sent to actuators in response to changes in the object list, for example, as opposed to a traditional sensor on the mask that triggers an actuator in response to any movement relative to the mask.

[0045] At least one information signal may be related to the environment. In contrast to conventional masks that do not have access (e.g., via wireless signaling) to information about the mask's environment, embodiments may control the mask to open and / or close using actuators without manual intervention based on conditions from the surrounding environment.

[0046] The at least one information signal may include a radio signal (e.g., received using an antenna at or near the protective mask) and / or a camera signal (e.g., acquired using a camera or an infrared sensor at or near the protective mask).

[0047] The wireless signal may indicate the Earth coordinates (e.g., GPS coordinates) of the protective mask and / or an object (e.g., a person or a wireless device or a building) in the protective mask's environment. Alternatively or in addition, the wireless signal may include an identifier of the object, such as a service set identifier (SSID) or cell identifier (CID) of a base station, or a discovery signal of a wireless device.

[0048] Alternatively or additionally, the control signal may include a wireless signal, for example for peer-to-peer or sidelink communication.

[0049] A radio channel used for at least one information signal (e.g., a channel between at least one object in the environment and a control device or a protective mask) and / or a radio channel used for a control signal (e.g., a channel between a control device and a protective mask) may comprise multiple subchannels or subcarriers (in the frequency domain). Alternatively or in addition, the channel may comprise one or more slots for multiple modulation symbols (in the time domain). Alternatively or in addition, the channel may comprise a directional transmit (also beam-shaped transmit), directional receive (also beam-shaped receive), or multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) channel with two or more spatial streams (in the spatial domain).

[0050] Any signaling may be based on one or more known technologies, including, for example, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, infrared sensors, cameras, and / or mobile networks.

[0051] The device 100 may be embodied by a UE (also "mobile equipment").

[0052] The control device 100 and the protective mask 200 may be in signal exchange (e.g., wireless or wired) to control (e.g., electronically) an actuator (e.g., a mechanism of the protective mask 200) to selectively place the protective mask 200 in an open or closed state.

[0053] The at least one information signal indicative of the environment of the protective mask may include data (eg, wirelessly and / or radio received), such as GPS coordinates, camera images, sensor data, and / or a service set identifier (SSID).

[0054] The combination of the control device 100 and the protective mask 200 embodiment may provide a method for opening and closing the protective mask 200 without the need for manual input. The method may be based on an interaction between an actuator of the protective mask 200, the control device 100 performing an evaluating step (e.g., a decision algorithm), and one or more information signals (also called "data") of the environment.

[0055] At least one information signal may be provided, for example, by a mobile network (i.e., a wireless network) and / or to the protective mask 200 or the (e.g., mobile) control device 100, for example by a sensor built into the UE and / or a smartphone.

[0056] For example, a UE embodying the control device 100 may be equipped with an application (e.g., a UE application) for implementing the first method aspect. Alternatively or additionally, the control device 100 may be integrated into the protective mask 200. By way of example, the control signal sending unit 106 of the control device 100 and the control signal receiving unit 206 of the protective mask 200 may be (e.g., internal) interfaces within the protective mask 200.

[0057] Alternatively or additionally, the control device 100 may be included in a smart watch (e.g., as an example of a UE). In any embodiment, the control device 100 may be responsible for controlling (e.g., feedback control or adjustment) the opening and closing mechanism of the protective mask 200.

[0058] The at least one information signal may include the partial information or any information necessary to determine in the evaluation step whether the protective mask 200 should be opened or closed or needs to be opened or closed. The at least one information signal may be collected from a local sensor, a central network server, and / or a local network environment. Alternatively or in addition, user profile information (e.g. including a whitelist of UEs belonging to family members and / or close friends and / or colleagues that should be excluded from the requirement to close the protective mask, and / or including a minimum distance, e.g. predefined by the user, and / or a maximum number and / or density of one or more people, e.g. predefined by the user) may be taken into account when evaluating the partial information and / or the information signal.

[0059] 3 shows an example flow chart of a method 300 for controlling an actuator of a protective mask configured to selectively assume a closed state for respiratory protection and an open state in which respiratory airflow resistance is reduced compared to the closed state. The method 300 includes or starts at a step 302 of receiving at least one information signal indicative of an environment of the protective mask. The method 300 further includes or starts at a step 306 of sending a control signal to an actuator of the protective mask to selectively assume the closed state and the open state in response to the at least one information signal.

[0060] Optionally, the method 300 further includes or initiates a step 304 of evaluating at least one received information signal with respect to local requirements for respiratory protection (e.g., for wearing a protective mask). The control signal sent (306) may control (e.g., trigger) an actuator to selectively assume an open or closed state depending on the result of the evaluation (304).

[0061] The method 300 may be implemented, for example, by the control device 100 embodying the control device. For example, the units 102, 104, and 106 may implement steps 302, 304, and 306, respectively.

[0062] 4 shows an example flow chart of a method 400 implemented by a protective mask with an actuator selectively assuming a closed state for respiratory protection and an open state in which respiratory airflow resistance is reduced compared to the closed state. The method 400 includes or initiates step 406 of receiving a control signal at an actuator of the protective mask for selectively assuming the closed and open states. The method 400 further includes or initiates step 408 of selectively assuming the closed and open states of the protective mask with the actuator in response to the received control signal.

[0063] Optionally, the method 400 further comprises or initiates a step 402 of obtaining, at the protective mask, at least one information signal indicative of the environment of the protective mask.

[0064] Further optionally, the method 400 further includes or initiates step 404, in which at least one information signal indicative of the environment of the protective mask is sent from the protective mask to a control device, and a control signal is received from the control device.

[0065] The method 400 may be implemented, for example, by the protective mask 200 embodying the protective mask. For example, the units 202, 204, 206, and 208 may implement steps 402, 404, 406, and 408, respectively.

[0066] The protective mask 200 may also be referred to or function as a respiratory mask, a filter mask, a facial mask, or a community mask, for example, in the closed state. The protective mask 200 may comprise a filtering section configured to filter inhaled and / or exhaled air through at least one of the mouth and nose of a human user (briefly, the user). The filtering section may cover at least one of the mouth and nose of the human user in the closed state, or at least in the closed state. The filtering section may be a central section of the protective mask. The filtering section may comprise a fabric. The fabric may comprise one or more filtering layers. The fabric may comprise any type of (e.g., woven and / or knitted) fabric.

[0067] Here, the respiratory protection may be based on the fact that the protective mask, for example the filtering section, is configured in a closed state to retain or remove droplets and / or aerosols in the air. The respiratory protection may correspond to standards for filtering facepiece 2 (FFP2), filtering facepiece 3 (FFP3), N95, KN95 or any other standard.

[0068] Alternatively or additionally, the open state may allow lip reading (i.e., to read the lips of a human user wearing the protective mask 200), eating, drinking, or clear speech or pronunciation. The open state may include a state in which breathing is unobstructed, for example, when in the open state all fabric is removed from both the nose and mouth.

[0069] The protective mask 200 may include at least one sensor. At least one information signal may be acquired by the at least one sensor of the protective mask 200. The at least one information may be transferred to a control device. Alternatively or in addition, the at least one sensor may be included in the control device, which may be remote from the protective mask.

[0070] The at least one information signal may indicate (e.g., explicitly or implicitly) that the environment is associated with a local respiratory protection requirement for respiratory protection (simply, a "local protective requirement" or even shorter a "local requirement"). A local requirement to wear a protective mask, e.g., based on the at least one information signal, may also be referred to as a "positive local requirement." An absence of a local requirement to wear a protective mask, e.g., based on the at least one information signal, may also be referred to as a "negative local requirement."

[0071] The emitted control signal may trigger the actuator to assume a closed state in response to at least one information signal indicating that the environment is associated with a local requirement for respiratory protection. Alternatively or additionally, the emitted control signal may trigger the actuator to assume an open state in response to at least one information signal indicative of the environment.

[0072] The local requirement for respiratory protection may be, for example, a (e.g., positive) local requirement to wear a protective mask in an indoor area. Alternatively or additionally, the (e.g., negative) local requirement for respiratory protection may include, for example, based on an outdoor area, that there is no need to wear a protective mask. Yet alternatively or additionally, the local requirement for respiratory protection may be specific to each one of the two or more information signals. For example, a first information signal may indicate an outdoor area that does not necessarily suggest the need to wear a protective mask, and a second information signal may indicate, for example, a crowded area where it is not possible to always keep a safe distance, whereby wearing a protective mask is mandatory. The step 304 of evaluating may include determining a positive local requirement for respiratory protection if at least one information signal from the plurality of received information signals indicates and / or suggests that wearing a protective mask is mandatory.

[0073] The evaluating step 304 may determine whether the received at least one informational signal indicates and / or suggests a (e.g., positive) local requirement for respiratory protection in the environment. For example, the at least one informational signal may indicate a (e.g., positive) local requirement for respiratory protection.

[0074] Here, "indicating (indicating) a (e.g., positive) local requirement" may include deriving the (e.g., positive) local requirement from at least an information signal alone, e.g., from a beacon frame including "Wear a mask!" Alternatively or additionally, "indicating (e.g., positive) local requirement" may include receiving at least one information signal of a location and / or a local ambient environment, which information signal, in combination with further information (e.g., a map including locations with a positive local requirement and / or a list of conditions in the local ambient environment with a positive local requirement), leads to an indication of a (e.g., positive) local requirement for respiratory protection.

[0075] Evaluating the received at least one information signal (304) in relation to local requirements for respiratory protection may include evaluating whether a closed or open state should be assumed, for example, a location on a map may be compared to stored requirements for wearing a protective mask.

[0076] The map may be stored in the control device. Alternatively or additionally, the map may be accessible by the control device. The map may be provided by a remote location, for example a storage unit, and / or the map may be accessible or downloadable from a server (also called the cloud).

[0077] Evaluating the at least one received information signal (304) may include running through a decision tree. The decision tree may include a hierarchical combination of conditions, e.g., at least one or each of the conditions depends on the at least one received information signal. For example, if a radio signal for radio frequency identification (RFID) indicates a (e.g., positive) local requirement to wear a protective mask, the decision tree may output an evaluation to assume a closed state, regardless of any further information signal indicating no requirement to wear a protective mask, e.g., based on the number and / or density of other human users being below a predefined threshold.

[0078] Alternatively or in addition, the evaluating step may determine whether the received at least one information signal indicates and / or suggests at least one of a positive local requirement for respiratory protection (including a requirement for respiratory protection) and a negative local requirement (not including a requirement for respiratory protection) in the environment. For example, the at least one information signal may suggest a (e.g., positive) local requirement for respiratory protection in the environment based on a map relating a location to a (e.g., positive) local requirement, and the at least one information signal indicates a location of a protective mask. Alternatively or in addition, the at least one information signal may suggest a (e.g., positive) local requirement for respiratory protection in the environment based on a density of one or more people in the environment of the protective mask.

[0079] The result of the evaluation may indicate whether the environment is associated with a (e.g., positive) local requirement or not. The emitted control signal may trigger the actuator to assume either a closed or an open state depending on the result of the evaluation, i.e. whether the environment is associated with a (e.g., positive) local requirement or not.

[0080] The control signal sent to the actuator of the protective mask 200 may control the actuator to selectively assume a closed state and an open state (e.g., to assume either a closed state or an open state) in response to at least one information signal.

[0081] The control signal may be received from the control device 100. The control device 100 may be remote from the protective mask 200.

[0082] The control signal may be received wirelessly in step 406. The control signal may be a wireless signal.

[0083] The method 300 may be performed by the control device 100. The control device 100 may be remote from the protective mask 200. For example, the control device 100 may be included in or embodied by a UE (e.g., in the possession of a user of the protective mask 200).

[0084] Optionally, the protective mask 200 may comprise the control device 100. Alternatively or additionally, the method 300 may be performed by the protective mask 200, for example by a control device of the protective mask.

[0085] The method 400 may be performed by the protective mask 200 .

[0086] Conventional protective masks can be inconvenient, can be difficult to breathe, and can be uncomfortable. For example, eyeglass wearers may have problems with fogging up their eyeglasses and / or obstructing visibility in outdoor areas. An embodiment of the present technique allows the protective mask 200 to be closed only when actually necessary.

[0087] The methods 300 and 400 for opening and closing the protective mask ensure the safety that the protective mask is always closed when necessary. For example, depending on the evaluation (also called "implementation algorithm"), the protective mask may be closed when the wearer is in a crowded area, in a store, or in an area where wearing a mask is mandatory, for example a pedestrian zone.

[0088] Alternatively or additionally, the control device 100 (sometimes referred to as "logic") of the respirator 200 may determine whether the circumstances of the respirator 200's environment require the respirator 200 to be worn. This (e.g. positive) local requirement may not be obvious to the user in the circumstances. Thus, a higher level of protection may be reached compared to a manually applied respirator, while still allowing the respirator 200 to be opened when possible.

[0089] Because the protective mask 200 can be opened and therefore left on and / or near the face, there is no need to manually put the protective mask 200 on or take it off.

[0090] The embodiments of the methods 300 and 400 may allow for more hygienic use, since the protective mask 200 opens and / or closes without manual intervention, e.g., without using hands and / or without the need to touch the protective mask 200. The protective mask 200 implementing the method 400 may be used and / or worn comfortably, since the protective mask 200 closes or opens even when the user's (i.e., wearer's) hands are full. For example, the wearer does not need to touch the protective mask 200 while working. Alternatively or additionally, the wearer does not need to put on and / or take off the protective mask 200. This may be in contrast to conventional masks, which have an opening and closing mechanism that can only be triggered manually, e.g., for eating or drinking, by pressing a button connected to the mask by a cable or wire.

[0091] By receiving at least one information signal from an object in the environment, the control device may update a list of objects in the environment for evaluation 304. This may be in contrast to conventional masks that include motion sensors that trigger closure of the mask upon detection of any movement relative to the mask, solely due to mask movement and independent of any local respiratory protection requirements (e.g., when alone in a non-public indoor location or a non-crowded outdoor area).

[0092] For user convenience, the actuator of the protective mask 200 is triggered with a control signal, for example remotely, using the control device 100 .

[0093] Alternatively or additionally, embodiments of the protective mask 200 may be capable of relating, in the evaluation step 304 , different conditions and / or parameters related to the local environment of the protective mask 200 using the control device 100 .

[0094] The protective mask 200 may communicate bidirectionally with the control device 100, i.e., by receiving and / or sending data (e.g., including one or more information signals and / or control signals for opening and closing) to and from the control device 100.

[0095] In either embodiment, the at least one information signal may be indicative of an environment associated with a local requirement for respiratory protection. A control signal (sent to an actuator of the protective mask 200 in step 306 and / or received at the protective mask 200 in step 406) may control (e.g., trigger) the actuator to assume a closed state and / or an open state in response to the at least one information signal.

[0096] For example, the control signal may include a beacon frame indicating a requirement for respiratory protection.

[0097] The evaluating (304) may determine whether the at least one received information signal indicates and / or suggests at least one of a positive local requirement (including a requirement for respiratory protection) and a negative local requirement (not including a requirement for respiratory protection) for respiratory protection in the environment. The control signal (e.g., sent in step 306 and / or received in step 406) may control (e.g., trigger) the actuator to assume an open state according to the result of the evaluation 304 if the at least one information signal does not indicate and / or suggests a (e.g., positive) local requirement and / or if the at least one information signal indicates and / or suggests a negative local requirement. Alternatively or additionally, the control signal (e.g., sent in step 306 and / or received in step 406) may control (e.g., trigger) the actuator to assume a closed state if the at least one information signal indicates and / or suggests a (e.g., positive) local requirement.

[0098] In either embodiment, the at least one information signal may indicate the position of the protective mask and / or the type of protective mask position.

[0099] The type of location (e.g. type of environment) may include at least one of: a (e.g. dense) built-up area (e.g. shopping zone or pedestrian zone), a rural area, an area without buildings (e.g. natural landscape or wilderness). Alternatively or additionally, the at least one information signal may indicate Geographic Information (GI) or Geographic Data and Information (GDI), for example according to the ISO / TC211 series of standards.

[0100] The evaluating step 304 may use a map relating the position of the protective mask 200 and / or the type of protective mask position to a (e.g., positive) local requirement to determine whether at least one information signal (e.g., received in step 302, obtained in step 402, and / or sent in step 404) indicates a (e.g., positive) local requirement for respiratory protection in the environment.

[0101] In either embodiment, the at least one information signal may be indicative of one or more people and / or one or more (e.g., portable) wireless devices in the environment of the protective mask 200. The portable wireless devices may include one or more wearable wireless devices.

[0102] Evaluating (304) may determine whether the received at least one information signal indicates a (e.g., positive) local requirement for respiratory protection in the environment based on the number and / or density of one or more people in the environment of the protective masks and / or the density of the one or more portable wireless devices.

[0103] In either embodiment, the at least one information signal may indicate whether the protective mask 200 is located indoors or outdoors.

[0104] The control signal may control an actuator of the mask 200 to selectively assume a closed and open state (e.g., assume either a closed state or an open state) depending on whether the mask 200 is located indoors or outdoors, respectively. The absence or presence of a satellite signal (e.g., a signal from a navigation satellite system) may indicate whether the mask is located indoors or outdoors, respectively.

[0105] Evaluating (304) may determine that the at least one information signal indicates a positive local requirement for respiratory protection if the at least one information signal indicates that the protective mask 200 is located indoors. Alternatively or in addition, evaluating 304 may determine that the at least one information signal does not indicate a positive local requirement for respiratory protection and / or indicates a negative local requirement if the at least one information signal indicates that the protective mask is located outdoors.

[0106] Evaluating 304 may include comparing the received (302) at least one information signal to a list of stored locations and / or a list of stored wireless devices. As used herein, any wireless device may be a UE. Optionally, the wireless device may include a portable wireless device.

[0107] The list may be stored in the control device 100 implementing the method 300 .

[0108] The stored list may include an exclusion list of wireless devices whose wireless signals should be excluded from evaluating (304) the at least one information signal received (302) in association with local requirements for respiratory protection.

[0109] The stored list of UEs may be referred to as a whitelist. The whitelist may, for example, include a list of UEs belonging to a predefined group of contact persons, in particular family members and / or housemates.

[0110] The stored list may include at least one predefined threshold to take into account when evaluating 304 the at least one information signal received 302. The at least one predefined threshold may correspond to and / or include a minimum distance of the portable wireless devices, a maximum number of portable wireless devices, and / or a maximum density of the portable wireless devices in the environment of the protective mask.

[0111] The predefined threshold may include a minimum distance from another user (e.g., 1.5 meters to 2 meters) below which the closed state should be selectively adopted. Alternatively or additionally, the predefined threshold may include, for example, a maximum number of other users within a predefined distance from the protective mask above which the closed state should be selectively adopted. Still alternatively or additionally, the predefined threshold may include a maximum density of other users in the vicinity of the protective mask above which the closed state should be selectively adopted.

[0112] At least one information signal (e.g., received in step 302 and / or obtained in step 402) may include an image signal. Evaluating (304) may include recognizing one or more persons (i.e., humans) based on the image signal.

[0113] The image signal may also be referred to as a video signal. The information signal (e.g., received in step 302 and / or acquired in step 402) may include at least one image of the environment of the protective mask. The control device 100 implementing the method 300 and / or the protective mask 200 implementing the method 400 may include a camera module that captures the image signal. Recognizing a person (e.g., a human) may include locating and / or identifying a person (e.g., an individual) on at least one image. Alternatively or in addition, evaluating the image signal may include recognizing whether the person (e.g., a human) is wearing a protective mask. Further alternatively or in addition, recognizing one or more people based on the image signal may include recognizing the number and / or density of one or more people and / or the distance of one or more people from the protective mask.

[0114] The at least one information signal may indicate and / or suggest a local level of required respiratory protection. The local level of required respiratory protection may be a local requirement for respiratory protection. The at least one information signal may indicate whether respiratory protection (i.e. closed state of the protective mask) is required or not. The control signal may control the actuator to assume an open state whenever respiratory protection is not required. Alternatively or additionally, the control signal may control the actuator to assume a closed state whenever respiratory protection is required.

[0115] Selectively assuming the closed state may include, for example, transitioning from the open state to the closed state if the level of respiratory protection required changes from no mask-wearing requirement to mask-wearing. Alternatively or additionally, selectively assuming the closed state may include, for example, maintaining the closed state if the mask-wearing requirement remains unchanged.

[0116] Selectively assuming the open state may include, for example, transitioning from the closed state to the open state if the level of required respiratory protection changes from a requirement to wear a protective mask to no requirement to wear a protective mask. Alternatively or additionally, selectively assuming the open state may include, for example, remaining in the open state if no requirement to wear a protective mask remains unchanged.

[0117] The local level of required respiratory protection may indicate whether respiratory protection (i.e., closed state) is required. For example, the local level of required respiratory protection may include at least one of a requirement to wear a protective mask (e.g., a community mask and / or a surgical mask) or no requirement for wearing a protective mask. Alternatively or in addition, the local level of required respiratory protection may include a requirement to wear a protective mask of certified and / or medical protection level, e.g., FFP2 and / or FFP3.

[0118] The local level of required respiratory protection may be a target state of the mask. A target state of the mask corresponding to a requirement to wear a community mask and / or a surgical mask may control (e.g., trigger) a closed state. Alternatively or additionally, a target state of the mask corresponding to no requirement to wear a mask may control (e.g., trigger) an open state.

[0119] The mask may be configured to assume a number of different levels of respiratory protection in the closed state. A control signal sent to and / or received at an actuator of the mask may trigger the actuator to assume one of the levels of respiratory protection in response to at least one information signal.

[0120] For example, the protective mask may be configured to selectively function as a community mask and a medical face mask in the closed state. Alternatively or additionally, the protective mask may operate as a filtering facepiece respirator in the closed state, configured to selectively filter droplets and / or aerosols in response to at least one information signal. Alternatively or additionally, the protective mask may operate as a particulate filtering facepiece respirator in the closed state, configured to selectively filter a first fraction of particles in the air (e.g., at least 50% of the particles) and a second fraction of particles in the air that is greater than the first fraction (e.g., 95% of the particles) in response to at least one information signal.

[0121] The at least one information signal may optionally include one or more wireless signals received on a downlink from a Radio Access Network (RAN) or a wireless base station, or on a sidelink from one or more wireless devices.

[0122] The wireless signals may include dedicated signals or broadcast signals.

[0123] The portable wireless device may include a user equipment (UE) according to 3GPP and / or a mobile station according to the Wi-Fi Alliance.

[0124] The at least one information signal may include and / or indicate an identifier of the radio base station (e.g., a cell identifier (CID) or a service set identifier (SSID)). The identifier of the radio base station may indicate a global or target environment of the protective mask. Alternatively or additionally, the at least one information signal may include an identifier of a discovery signal from each of one or more UEs. The identifier of the one or more UEs may indicate a congested or relative environment, e.g., persons and / or UEs included in a white list.

[0125] The RAN may include a communications network or cellular network in accordance with standards specified by the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), such as 3GPP LTE or 3GPP NR, and / or a local area network, such as based on the IEEE 802.11 family of standards.

[0126] The at least one information signal indicative of the environment of the protective mask may include one or more radio signals of a Radio Navigation Satellite Service (RNSS) or a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNNS).

[0127] For example, the at least one information signal may include at least one radio signal of the Global Positioning System (GPS), the GLObal'naya NAvigatsionnaya Sputnikovaya Sistema (GLONASS), the BeiDou Satellite Navigation System (BeiDou), and the Galileo GNNS.

[0128] The at least one information signal may include one or more radio signals for radio frequency identification (RFID).

[0129] At least one information signal may be a radio signal driving the modulated backscatter, e.g., a source signal driving a passive device (e.g., an RFID transponder) that transmits information by load modulation on the backscatter antenna, e.g., alternating between different impedances coupled to the backscatter antenna. For example, the radio signal driving the modulated backscatter may optionally indicate the environment of a protective mask, indicating the entrance to an area (e.g., a checkout area or a store exit area) requiring respiratory protection (i.e., closed state).

[0130] The RFID may include near field communication (NFC).

[0131] The at least one information signal may include one or more radio signals of a wireless local area network (WLAN).

[0132] Alternatively or additionally, the at least one information signal may include a radio signal according to a wireless network protocol, e.g., a Wi-Fi signal according to the Wi-Fi Alliance and / or based on the IEEE 802.11 family of standards according to the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). For example, a Wi-Fi signal in a facility (e.g., a store and / or a community facility) may indicate a protective mask environment, optionally indicating a local level of required respiratory protection (e.g., a requirement for respiratory protection).

[0133] Alternatively or additionally, the at least one information signal may include a beacon frame of a wireless network protocol, which may indicate the environment of the protective mask, optionally indicating a local level of required respiratory protection.

[0134] The at least one information signal may include one or more wireless signals for device-to-device (D2D) communication.

[0135] D2D communication may use a wireless communication protocol for personal area networks (PANs), for example Bluetooth according to the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG).

[0136] One or more wireless signals for D2D communication may be exchanged between the wireless devices, and optionally, one of the wireless devices (e.g., a control device) performs the method 300. The wireless signals may use a non-connected state or a connected state between the wireless devices. For example, the one or more wireless signals may use a wireless protocol for a connectionless service, e.g., for location-related navigation of a low energy Bluetooth connection and / or Bluetooth 5 according to the SIG.

[0137] The received at least one information signal may include two or more received information signals. For example, the received at least one information signal may include Bluetooth signals from multiple UEs under different ownership. Alternatively or in addition, the received at least one information signal may include a GPS signal and one or more Bluetooth signals.

[0138] The GPS signal may, for example, indicate an area without buildings where there is no local requirement to wear a protective mask (e.g., affirmative). One or more Bluetooth signals may indicate the number and / or density of people (e.g., other human users) in the vicinity of the user of the protective mask 200. A number and / or density of people greater than a predefined threshold may correspond to a requirement to wear a protective mask (i.e., closed state).

[0139] Alternatively or additionally, the one or more wireless signals received on the sidelink, the wireless signals for D2D communication, or the wireless signals for RFID may include signals from a portable wireless device in the vicinity of the user and / or control device performing the method 300. For example, the portable wireless device may include a UE under the ownership of a user different from the user of the protective mask 200. The UE may include at least one of a smartphone, a smart watch, a tablet computer, and a wearable device.

[0140] The method 300 may further include sending a further control message to a locking mechanism of a building (e.g., facility) in the environment in response to sending the control message controlling the actuator to assume the closed state. The building in the environment may be associated with a (e.g., positive) local requirement for respiratory protection. The further control message may indicate the closed state of the protective mask and / or may include a request to unlock the locking mechanism.

[0141] The method 300 may further include or initiate a step of outputting a warning indicating the wearing time of the protective mask if the wearing time is longer than a predefined threshold. The wearing time may be the total time in the closed state. The warning may remind the user to clean the protective mask and / or to replace the replaceable screen of the protective mask. Alternatively or additionally, the protective mask may comprise multiple layers (e.g., replaceable screens or filtering sections) and the warning may trigger the replacement of the layer in use. The replacement of the layer in use may be performed by a respective actuator(s). Alternatively or additionally, the user may replace the layer manually.

[0142] The method 300 may further include or initiate a step of receiving a command signal at a user interface indicating either an open state or a closed state. The method 300 may further include or initiate a step of sending a control signal to an actuator of the protective mask to selectively assume the closed state and the open state according to the command signal. For example, the command signal may disable at least one information signal for a predetermined period of time. Alternatively or additionally, the command signal may deactivate the actuator. By deactivating the actuator, the user may manually switch between the open state and the closed state of the protective mask.

[0143] In a first embodiment of the protective mask, the protective mask may cover the mouth and / or nose of a human user wearing the protective mask in a closed state. The protective mask may expose the mouth and / or nose of a human user wearing the protective mask in an open state, for example, as shown in the embodiment of Figures 12A, 12B, and 14A, 14B. Alternatively or additionally, the filtering section, e.g., the fabric, may be shifted near the mouth and / or nose of the human user in the open state. The filtering section may not cover the nose and / or mouth in the open state. For example, the filtering section may be folded in a pleated shape in the open state. The pleats of the filtering section may be stretched in the closed state.

[0144] The mask may include at least one arm (e.g., a lever, preferably two arms) for selectively assuming a closed state and an open state. The at least one arm may have, for example, one first end at a fixed position in a side section of the mask. The second end of the arm may be attached to a fabric border of the central section. For example, selectively assuming the closed state and the open state may include moving a variable upper border of the fabric upwards (e.g., to cover the mouth and nose in succession) and / or downwards (e.g., to expose the nose and mouth in succession). The lower border of the fabric may be fixed relative to the mask, for example, relative to the frame of the mask and / or the wearing position. For example, the lower border may be located at or below the user's chin.

[0145] In a second embodiment of the mask, which may be combined with the first embodiment, the mask may comprise a valve, for example an electromagnetic valve. The valve of the mask may be closed in the closed state of the mask. The valve of the mask may be open in the open state of the mask, for example as shown in the embodiment of Figures 13A and 13B. The open valve may allow air to be inhaled and / or exhaled through the mouth or nose, bypassing the filtering section.

[0146] In a third embodiment of the protective mask, which may be combined with the first or second embodiment, the protective mask may comprise a shield pivotable between an open state and a closed state, for example pivotable around a horizontal axis. For example, the protective mask may comprise a head mount (e.g., a head strap) and a pivotable shield. The head mount may pivotally support the shield. The shield may comprise a filtering section. The shield may be (at least partially) transparent. The shield may cover the face in the closed state of the protective mask. The shield may comprise a circumferential seal (e.g., an elastic rim or foam) that contacts the face and / or seals the shield on the face. The shield may be located on the head, i.e. above the head mount, in the open state of the protective mask.

[0147] Sending 306 the control signal to the actuator may include wirelessly transmitting the control signal from the control device 100 to the protective mask 200 .

[0148] The method 300 may further include or initiate a step of sending a message to the storage unit. The message may indicate the state that the protective mask is in. Additionally, the message may indicate the position of the protective mask, the moment that the state was assumed, and / or the duration since the state was assumed.

[0149] The step 408 of selectively assuming the closed and open states may include controlling the displacement of at least a central portion of the protective mask, which in the closed state covers the mouth and nose of the user. For example, the displacement may include a movement along a vertical and / or horizontal direction. Alternatively or additionally, the step 408 of selectively assuming the closed and open states may include controlling the closing and / or opening of at least one valve.

[0150] The control device and the protective mask may be separate devices carried by the same user. The control device and the protective mask may communicate control signals (e.g., exclusively) using wireless communication. Alternatively, the protective mask may comprise the control device. The control device and the protective mask may communicate control signals (e.g., exclusively) using wired communication.

[0151] The environment of the protective mask may correspond to the environment of the control device, for example the protective mask and the control device may be coordinated.

[0152] The control device and / or the protective mask may be spaced apart from at least one object (e.g., a person and / or a wireless device) in the environment, respectively. The control device and / or the protective mask may wirelessly receive or acquire at least one information signal from the at least one object.

[0153] In either aspect, the control equipment and / or the wireless device may form or be part of a wireless network, for example according to the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) or according to the standard family IEEE 802.11 (Wi-Fi). The wireless network may be a Radio Access Network (RAN) comprising one or more base stations. Alternatively or additionally, the wireless network may be a vehicular, ad-hoc, and / or mesh network. The first method aspect may be implemented by a user equipment (UE) configured to wirelessly access the wireless network.

[0154] Any of the wireless devices (e.g., the control device implementing the first method aspect and / or at least one object in the environment) may be a mobile or wireless device, e.g., a 3GPP user equipment (UE) or a Wi-Fi base station (STA). The wireless device may be a mobile or portable station, a device for machine-type communication (MTC), a device for narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT), or a combination thereof. Examples of UE and mobile stations include mobile phones, tablet computers, and autonomous vehicles. Examples of portable stations include laptop computers and television sets. Examples of MTC or NB-IoT devices include robots, sensors, and / or actuators, e.g., in manufacturing, automotive communication, and home automation. MTC or NB-IoT devices may be implemented in manufacturing plants, household appliances, and consumer electronics.

[0155] Any of the wireless devices may be wirelessly connected or connectable to any of the base stations (e.g., according to a radio resource control (RRC) state or active mode). In this specification, a base station may encompass any station configured to provide wireless access to any of the wireless devices. A base station may also be referred to as a transmit reception point (TRP), a radio access node, or an access point (AP). A base station, or one of the wireless devices acting as a gateway (e.g., between a wireless network and a RAN and / or the Internet), may provide a data link to a host computer that provides data. Examples of base stations may include 3G base stations or Node Bs, 4G base stations or eNode Bs (eNBs), 5G base stations or gNode Bs (gNBs), Wi-Fi APs, and network controllers (e.g., according to Bluetooth, ZigBee, or Z-Wave).

[0156] The RAN may be implemented in accordance with Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS), 3GPP Long Term Evolution (LTE), and / or 3GPP New Radio (NR).

[0157] Any aspect of the present technique may be implemented on a physical layer (PHY), a medium access control (MAC) layer, a radio link control (RLC) layer, and / or a radio resource control (RRC) layer of a protocol stack for wireless communication.

[0158] In this specification, any wireless communication may use uplink (UL), downlink (DL), or direct communication between wireless devices, such as device-to-device (D2D) communication or sidelink (SL) communication. For example, at least one information signal may be received and / or acquired by the control device 100 and / or the protective mask 200 in DL from a network node, and / or in D2D, and / or in SL from another wireless device, such as a UE involving a person other than the wearer of the protective mask (e.g., a human user).

[0159] The control device 100 may be a wireless device. In this specification, any wireless device may be a mobile or portable station and / or any wireless device that can be wirelessly connected to a base station or a RAN or to another wireless device. The wireless device may be a UE, a device for machine-type communication (MTC), or a device for the (e.g., narrowband) Internet of Things (IoT). Two or more wireless devices may be configured to wirelessly connect to each other, for example, in an ad-hoc wireless network or via a 3GPP sidelink connection. Furthermore, any base station may be a station that provides wireless access, may be part of a radio access network (RAN), and / or may be a node connected to the RAN to control wireless access. Furthermore, the base station may be an access point, for example a Wi-Fi access point.

[0160] Exemplary embodiments of the control device 100, protective mask 200, and methods 300 and 400 are described in the context of FIGS.

[0161] 5 shows an exemplary embodiment of a control device 100 that may be separate from an exemplary embodiment of a protective mask 200 embodying the protective mask. The control device 100 is configured to open or close the protective mask 200 by controlling the actuator 208 according to the wearer's environment, for example based on at least one of the following signal sources or information signals:

[0162] The protective mask 200 comprises a number of local sensors 202-1, 202-2 and / or 202-3 as well as a local camera 202-4 arranged as a signal source for obtaining (402) at least one information signal at the protective mask 200. The protective mask 200 further comprises a communication unit (e.g. comprising at least one of the units 204 and 206) for wireless communication with the control device 100 according to method steps 306 and 406 and / or for wireless communication with further wireless devices, for example using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi technology.

[0163] As shown diagrammatically in Fig. 5, the control device 100 may be spaced apart from the protective mask 200. The control device 100 comprises a communication unit, which includes an information signal receiving unit 102 and a control signal sending unit 106. The setting of the control device 100 in the exemplary embodiment of Fig. 5 (briefly, the control device setting) comprises the information signal evaluation unit 104 of Fig. 1 .

[0164] The communication between the control device 100, the protective mask 200 and the local environment is illustrated by the block diagram of FIG.

[0165] The protective mask 200 in the example of Fig. 6 itself is equipped with local sensors, such as an infrared camera and / or a camera configured to detect other people based on an infrared sensor input 606 or a camera input 608. The protective mask 200 of Fig. 6 may further comprise a distance sensor and / or a humidity sensor, providing a further sensor detection input 606.

[0166] A camera, such as camera 202-4 in FIG. 5, may be used for image-based identification of one or more people in the environment. For example, the one or more people may be identified using image recognition. Image recognition may also detect and alert if at least one other person is around, such as another person not wearing a protective mask (e.g., assessed based on image signals).

[0167] Image recognition may allow to identify familiar people, for example family members. For example, the presence and / or proximity of a (for example, predefined) group of familiar people may be excluded from the evaluation 304, i.e. no local requirement to wear a protective mask (for example, positive) needs to be imposed. The absence of a requirement for wearing a mask in the presence and / or proximity of a group of familiar people may be determined in the evaluation step 304 based on a whitelist, for example obtained at user input 604, as shown diagrammatically in FIG. 6. The whitelist may be stored in the control device settings 104, for example, as shown diagrammatically in FIG. 5.

[0168] A central and / or network-based information system may be involved in assessing the need for respiratory protection (304). For example, locations that have a local requirement to wear a protective mask at all times (e.g., positive) may be determined in step 304. The control device 100 in the example of FIG. 6 may take into account a GPS database 612 (e.g., maps) and / or GPS localization (e.g., GPS signals) in the assessment 304.

[0169] Furthermore, for example, as shown in the example of FIG. 6, the at least one information signal may include a local radio beacon. The local radio beacon may determine a (e.g., positive) local requirement for respiratory protection (i.e., a local mask requirement). This information signal may be realized using a local Wi-Fi signal 610, a Bluetooth signal 602, and / or an NFC signal. For example, the SSID of a local Wi-Fi base station or service set may be set to a string indicating a (e.g., positive) local requirement to wear a protective mask. This means that one or more local wireless systems (e.g., base stations and / or wireless devices) can preferably broadcast a (e.g., positive) local requirement without the need for the control device 100 to actually register or enter a connection state with a wireless network (e.g., with a base station).

[0170] The technique for controlling the actuator of the protective mask may include a system comprising a control device 100 and a protective mask 200, for example according to any one of Figures 5 and 6. The control device 100 may include an application function (briefly, "app") that may be implemented in a portable wireless device, for example a UE, embodied by a smartphone or a smartwatch. By separating the control device 100 from the protective mask 200, the protective mask may be lightweight. The lightweight may increase the suitability and / or convenience of wearing the protective mask.

[0171] Alternatively or additionally, the control device 100 may be included in the protective mask 200 itself.

[0172] FIG. 7 illustrates exemplary communications between the control device 100 and actuators of the protective mask 200, sensors and / or cameras 202 providing inputs 606 and / or 608, wireless devices (e.g., one or more UEs of one or more other persons and / or Wi-Fi stations in indoor locations, or any further infrastructure of the local environment), and / or a radio-based navigation system (e.g., comprising a map of the local environment).

[0173] The arrangement of the sensors, cameras and / or any further devices relative to the control device 100 and the protective mask 200 may be as illustrated in FIGS.

[0174] At reference numeral 706, the GPS coordinates of the at least one information signal may indicate whether a protective mask is needed at the current location (i.e., a (e.g., positive) local requirement) based on a GPS database input 612 (e.g., in combination with a map showing local requirements for respiratory protection). For example, the GPS location and a central database containing a list of locations where a protective mask is needed may be jointly assessed, e.g., compared. The GPS coordinates may be used to identify (e.g., distinguish) pedestrian and / or indoor areas within a building.

[0175] 7, an example of the at least one information signal of step 302 may include a peer-to-peer wireless communication 602 (e.g., a Bluetooth input). The peer-to-peer wireless communication may be received in step 302 in response to a request by the control device 100, as indicated by reference numeral 702. Alternatively or in addition, a camera infrastructure providing input 608 may be used to identify one or more people in the environment (i.e., one or more people nearby).

[0176] Alternatively or in addition, the at least one information signal may include a Wi-Fi based beacon 610, which may be used to communicate the need to wear a mask (i.e., may indicate a (e.g., positive) local requirement), as a further example of step 302 of FIG. 7. The at least one information signal may be realized using an existing Wi-Fi infrastructure, for example, by setting the SSID or beacon to a text message (e.g., simple text such as "Wear a mask!") indicating a (e.g., positive) local requirement. For example, the presence of a standardized SSID may be interpreted as an instruction to wear a protective mask (i.e., as a (e.g., positive) local requirement). The (e.g., Wi-Fi based) beacon provides a very useful function, especially for crowded public places, such as shopping malls and / or trains. Alternatively or in addition, the (e.g., Wi-Fi based) beacon may be used to identify or determine entrances and / or exits of a building (e.g., a store) associated with a (e.g., positive) local requirement for respiratory protection.

[0177] In step 302, for example, as indicated by reference numeral 702 in Fig. 7, the control device 100 senses nearby wireless devices with activated Bluetooth technology (i.e., wireless devices in the environment). The sensing may provide a Bluetooth input 602 as an example of at least one information signal of step 302 from one or more wireless devices. Alternatively or in addition, as indicated by reference numeral 704, the sensing may not lead to detection of any wireless devices in the environment of the protective mask (e.g., no wireless devices with activated Bluetooth functionality).

[0178] Identification of one or more persons in the environment, for example, a peer-to-peer communication identifier (e.g., Bluetooth ID) of a wireless device (e.g., personal device) and / or a mobile number based on the input 602 as an example of the at least one information signal, may be used to compare the at least one information signal with a whitelist of persons. Persons on the whitelist may be marked as persons of the same household. The whitelist may be defined and / or stored in the control device 100.

[0179] The control device 100 may include at least one of the following functions.

[0180] The opening and / or closing of the protective mask 200 (e.g., the screen and / or central section of the protective mask 100) may further be activated manually, for example, using buttons on the control device 100 (e.g., a human machine interface (HMI) and / or a screen of a smartphone or smartwatch, etc.) and / or using buttons on the protective mask.

[0181] In any embodiment, the open and closed states of the protective mask 200 may be the open and closed states of a screen or central section of the protective mask 200, respectively.

[0182] The open and closed states of the protective mask 200 may be triggered by an evaluation 304 of the control device 100. The evaluation 304 (also "decision algorithm") may determine whether the protective mask 200 should be opened or closed based on one or more rules (e.g., a set of rules) and at least one information signal (also called "data") obtained (402) and / or received in step 302 from at least one of a sensor (e.g., a sensor of the protective mask 200), a camera (e.g., a camera of the protective mask 200), and one or more objects in the environment (e.g., wireless devices of other people and / or environmental infrastructure).

[0183] An example of the method 300 includes receiving (302) an information signal from a wireless device (e.g., an access point) regarding a radio beacon (e.g., a beacon frame) in the vicinity, i.e., in the environment, of the protective mask 200. The radio beacon indicates a (e.g., positive) local requirement for respiratory protection, e.g., a message including "Wear your mask!" Alternatively or additionally, the received (302) information signal indicates that the user is in a zone, for example identified by location, where a protective mask is always required (i.e., a (e.g., positive) local requirement, evaluated in step 304, for example based on a GPS location).

[0184] Alternatively or additionally, the received (302) information signal may indicate that the user is in a crowded area and / or that not everyone in the user's environment (i.e. local vicinity) is on the whitelist. Upon receiving any one of the information signals in step 302, and optionally upon evaluating any one of the information signals in step 304, a control signal configured to control the actuator to assume a closed state of the protective mask 200 may be sent according to step 306. Alternatively or additionally, the step 304 of evaluating the at least one received information signal may be terminated as soon as one of the at least one received information signal indicates or suggests a (e.g. positive) local requirement for respiratory protection, whereby a control signal to assume a closed state is sent (306) to the actuator of the protective mask 200.

[0185] Flowcharts of embodiments of method 300 are provided in Figures 8-11. Each of the method embodiments uses at least one information signal of one type. The method embodiments may be combined, for example, logically combined and / or using decision trees.

[0186] Method 300 may begin at 802. For example, a user may put on protective mask 200 and activate control device 100. At 302, at least one information signal is received.

[0187] In the method embodiments of Figures 8, 9, 10 and 11, the at least one information signal includes sensor data and / or camera data, location information, Wi-Fi SSID, and Bluetooth signals from nearby wireless devices, respectively. In step 304, the received at least one information signal is evaluated.

[0188] If, at 806, the evaluation 304 indicates a (eg positive) local requirement, ie the need for respiratory protection, a control signal is sent, at 822, to the actuator of the protective mask 200 to assume the closed state.

[0189] If the evaluation result indicates no local requirement (e.g., a negative local requirement), i.e., no need for respiratory protection, at 808, then either no control signal is sent (e.g., if the protective mask 200 is already in an open state) or a control signal to assume an open state is sent at 824. In any of the method embodiments, or in any combination of the method embodiments, the method 300 may be repeated when a new information signal is received, for example as shown at 826.

[0190] Further details of the evaluation step 304 are described with reference to FIG.

[0191] In an embodiment of the method of the flow chart of FIG. 8, the at least one information signal received in step 302 indicates, with reference 804, the presence or absence of one or more persons in the local environment of the protective mask 200. If the at least one information signal indicates the presence of one or more persons, in a further sub-step 810 of the evaluation step 304 it is verified whether the number and / or density of one or more persons in the local environment exceeds a predefined threshold above which respiratory protection is required. In a further sub-step 816, if the number and / or density of one or more persons exceeds a predefined threshold, the identity of one or more persons may be compared with a white list. One or more persons on the white list may be excluded from the counting of the number and / or density of one or more persons in sub-step 810.

[0192] Alternatively or additionally, sub-step 810 may optionally include determining a sensitivity or distance (e.g. based on a signal strength of at least one information signal) in terms of a predefined threshold, e.g. a minimum acceptable distance to another person, within the crowded area, below which respiratory protection is required. If the distance to one or more people is below the minimum value, a control signal 822 is sent to the actuator of the protective mask 200 to assume a closed state.

[0193] The person density threshold or thresholds may be defined, for example, based on image recognition of camera data in at least one information signal received in step 302, as a minimum distance and / or a maximum number of people in the environment, and / or a minimum distance and / or a number of people not wearing protective masks in the environment.

[0194] Alternatively or in addition, if the control device 100 detects (e.g., by receiving at least one information signal (302)) that, for example, the environment (e.g., a place or facility) is very crowded, that one or more people are not able to maintain a safe distance, and / or that one or more people in the local environment are not wearing a protective mask, the control device 100 may optionally be used to warn the user without and / or before controlling the closure state of the protective mask.

[0195] Exemplary embodiments of the protective mask 200 are described with reference to Figures 12A and 12B, 13A and 13B, and 14A and 14B, respectively. In addition to the features shown in Figures 12A-14B, respectively, any of the embodiments may comprise at least a control signal receiving unit 206 and an actuator unit 208, and optionally an information signal obtaining unit 202 and an information signal sending unit 204, as shown diagrammatically in Figure 2.

[0196] According to a first embodiment, the protective mask 200 may be realized using a protective screen 1202, for example made of a piece of fabric and / or cloth, and an actuator 208 (also "actuation mechanism", for example one or more lever arms) that moves (for example, raises and lowers) the screen 1202, as shown in Figs. 12A and 12B. The one or more lever arms 208 may have a first end that is rotatably (1210) and / or slidably supported on the (for example, fixed) side portion 1204 of the protective mask 200. The one or more lever arms 208 may have a second end (for example at an end opposite to the first end) that is attached to the (for example, upper) edge 1208 of the screen 1202, for example slidably attached to a rail 1208 that defines the border of the screen 1202. Further boundaries of the screen may be secured to side portions 1204 which may guide the movement of the screen 1202 during opening and / or closing actuated by actuator 208.

[0197] The protective mask 200 may further comprise fastening means 1206 for fastening the protective mask 200 to the user's head, e.g., to the ears, for example, by means of strings and / or loops. Alternatively or in addition, the side portion 1204 may comprise one or more sensors (e.g., any one of the sensors 202-1, 202-2, 202-3, and / or the camera 202-4 of the embodiment of FIG. 5). Still alternatively or in addition, the side portion 1204 may comprise the control device 100.

[0198] FIG. 12A shows a schematic representation of a first embodiment of the protective mask 200 in a closed state, in which the screen 1202 covers the mouth and nose of the user. The screen 1202 may, for example, comprise a piece of fabric or cloth (e.g., a filtering section) that is stretched taut in the closed state. FIG. 12B shows a schematic representation of a first embodiment of the protective mask 200 in an open state, in which the edge 1208 of the screen 1202 is pulled down from the nose and mouth, allowing unhindered breathing. In the open state, the screen 1202, for example, a piece of fabric and / or cloth, may be folded in a lowest position under the user's chin. The open state according to the first embodiment may allow the user to eat and drink.

[0199] The screen 1202 (e.g., filtering section) may be separable from the protective mask 200, for example from the fixed side portion 1204, for cleaning or replacement. The separability of the screen 1202 may provide and / or increase the sustainability of the protective mask 200.

[0200] According to a second embodiment, the protective mask 200 may include one or more valves 1302 as shown in Figures 13A and 13B. The closed state of the protective mask 200 shown in Figure 13A has a high respiratory airflow resistance as indicated by the weak or scattered airflow through the screens 1202-1204 at reference number 1304. The open state of the protective mask 200 shown in Figure 13B has a low respiratory airflow resistance as indicated by the strong or guided airflow through the open valves 1302 at reference number 1306.

[0201] According to a second embodiment, the screens 1202-1204, for example pieces of fabric, cover the nose and mouth in both the open and closed state of one or more valves 1203 of the protective mask 200. The screens 1202-1204 act as filtering compartments, so that in the open state the airflow 1306 may be bypassed by passing through the open valves.

[0202] According to a third embodiment, the protective mask 200 may comprise a (at least partially) transparent screen 1402 pivotally and / or rotatably mounted on a fastening means 1206 (e.g., a head mount), as displayed in Fig. 14A and Fig. 14B. The fastening means 1206 according to the third embodiment may comprise, for example, one or more straps 1206 extending along the length and / or (e.g., half) width of the user's head. Fastening points 1404 for rotating and / or pivoting the screen 1402 may be located on each side of the user's head. Fig. 14A shows a closed state of the protective mask 200, in which the screen 1402 is in a vertical position and / or extends parallel to the user's face, covering the nose and mouth. Fig. 14B shows an open state of the protective mask 200, in which the screen 1402 is positioned horizontally above the user's head. The open state according to the third embodiment allows, for example, the user to eat and drink.

[0203] In any embodiment, the actuation of opening and / or closing of the protective mask 200 may be triggered by a control device using a control signal.

[0204] Embodiments of the technique may include additional method steps and / or features, particularly of the protective mask 200, that allow for multiple different levels of protection.

[0205] For example, the protective mask 200 in extension of the first embodiment of Figures 12A and 12B may comprise a multi-layer, for example a multi-layer fabric and / or a multi-layer cloth screen 1202.

[0206] The protective mask 200 with multiple layers can be adjusted for different levels of respiratory protection requirements and / or different environments. For example, different layers of the protective mask 200 may be used in different environments. For example, the protective mask 200 with the multiple layer screen 1202 may be used in a hospital, where different levels of respiratory protection are required in corridors, patient rooms, examination rooms, and / or operating rooms. Alternatively or additionally, different layers of the protective mask 200 may be used indoors compared to outdoor environments with respiratory protection requirements, for example, in crowded pedestrian zones.

[0207] Alternatively or additionally, a protective mask 200 having, for example, multiple layers of fabric, may allow for one layer (e.g., of fabric) to be replaced with another layer when the use of one layer has expired, for example when a person has been exercising (e.g., running and / or any other sport that causes increased respiratory airflow compared to a resting state) and / or when the protective mask 200 has been worn for a period longer than the maximum recommended duration for use of any one of the layers of the screen 1202.

[0208] The multiple layers of the screen 1202 may allow the protective mask 200 to switch layers to increase and / or decrease the level of protection and / or to replace a clean layer, triggered, for example, by the control device 100.

[0209] The switching of layers of the protective mask may be performed without human and / or manual intervention. The control device 100 may be remote from the protective mask 200 and may store a number of different parameters including at least one of a predetermined maximum duration of (e.g., permissible) use of any one of the layers, a period of time since the layer was first donned and / or used, a recommendation for use of the given layer in a specified environment (e.g., indoors and / or outdoors), a record of the given layer being used in a specified environment (e.g., indoors and / or outdoors), and a classification of the layer according to a level of respiratory protection requirement, e.g., protection level 1.

[0210] Alternatively or additionally, the layers of the protective mask 200 may be switched manually, for example, by pressing a button on the frame of the protective mask 200 (e.g., on one of the side portions 1204 in Figs. 12A, 12B). The user may be alerted by the control device 100 when a layer switch is recommended, for example, by comparing the duration of the layer being worn to a maximum allowable duration and / or based on changes in the local environment.

[0211] An exemplary embodiment of a protective mask 200 having multiple layers includes one actuator 208 per layer, for example, a pair of thin lever arms 208 as in Figures 12A and 12B. Each actuator 208 may provide a means for selectively positioning a respective layer in an open or closed state.

[0212] The protective mask 200 may include an airflow sensor, for example as one of the sensors 202-1, 202-2, or 202-3 of Fig. 5. The airflow sensor may be set to detect breathing, for example to warn about "bad" air. Fresh air may be an important criterion for a safe area and / or environment (e.g., with respect to respiratory-related health hazards).

[0213] The communication unit (e.g., the control signal sending unit 106) of the control device 100 may further be configured to send a control signal to at least one wireless device and / or base station in the environment of the protective mask 200 (sometimes also referred to as "opposite direction" compared to the at least one information signal received at reference numbers 302 and / or 402). For example, the control signal to the at least one wireless device and / or base station in the environment may include a notification that the protective mask 200 is in a closed state (or an appropriate one of the closed states, in case of different levels). The at least one wireless device and / or base station in the environment may be associated with an entry restricted area. The notification of the closed state of the protective mask 200 may correspond to and / or include a request for entry and / or a trigger for opening the door.

[0214] The control device 100 may be implemented in a cloud environment. By implementing in a cloud environment, the need for a separate unit and / or the control device 100 may be eliminated. In the case of a cloud implementation, at least one piece of information collected by one or more sensors located on the protective mask 200 may be wirelessly sent to a cloud-based application, for example, via a Wi-Fi or mobile network data connection. The same and / or additional wireless communication infrastructure may be used to receive (406) a control signal at the actuator of the protective mask 200 to selectively assume the closed and open states.

[0215] 15 shows a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of the control device 100. The control device 100 comprises one or more processors 1502 for performing the method 300 and a memory 1504 coupled to the processor 1502. For example, the memory 1504 may be encoded with instructions to be implemented in at least one of the units 102, 104, and 106.

[0216] The one or more processors 1502 may be one or more combinations of a microprocessor, controller, microcontroller, central processing unit, digital signal processor, application specific integrated circuit, field programmable gate array, or any other suitable computing device, resource, or combination of hardware, microcode, and / or encoded logic, operable to provide functionality of a UE or control device, either alone or in conjunction with other components of the control device 100, such as memory 1504. For example, the one or more processors 1502 may execute instructions stored in memory 1504. Such functionality may include providing various features and steps described herein, including any of the benefits disclosed herein. The phrase "a device operable to perform an action" may indicate that the control device 100 is configured to perform the action.

[0217] As shown in Fig. 15, the control device 100 may be embodied by a UE. The control device 100 comprises a protective mask 200 and a wireless interface 102 and / or 106 coupled to a processor 1502 and a memory 1504, for example for wireless communication with a base station and / or further UEs.

[0218] 16 illustrates a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a protective mask 200. The protective mask 200 comprises one or more processors 1602 for performing the method 400 and a memory 1604 coupled to the processor 1602. For example, the memory 1604 may be encoded with instructions implementing at least one of the modules 202, 204, 206, and 208.

[0219] The one or more processors 1602 may be one or more combinations of a microprocessor, controller, microcontroller, central processing unit, digital signal processor, application specific integrated circuit, field programmable gate array, or any other suitable computing device, resource, or combination of hardware, microcode, and / or encoded logic, operable to provide the functionality of the protective mask, either alone or in conjunction with other components of the protective mask 200, such as the memory 1604. For example, the one or more processors 1602 may execute instructions stored in the memory 1604. Such functionality may include providing various features and steps described herein, including any of the benefits disclosed herein. The phrase "a device operable to perform an action" may indicate that the protective mask 200 is configured to perform the action.

[0220] As shown diagrammatically in FIG. 16, the protective mask 200 comprises a control device 100, embodied for example by a UE, and optionally wireless interfaces 204, 206 coupled to a processor 1602 and a memory 1604, for wireless communication, for example with a base station and / or further UEs.

[0221] 17, according to one embodiment, a communication system 1700 includes a communication network 1710, such as a 3GPP type cellular network, comprising an access network 1711, such as a wireless access network, and a core network 1714. The access network 1711 comprises a number of base stations 1712a, 1712b, 1712c, such as NBs, eNBs, gNBs, or other types of wireless access points, each defining a corresponding coverage area 1713a, 1713b, 1713c. Each base station 1712a, 1712b, 1712c is connectable to the core network 1714 through a wired or wireless connection 1715. A first UE 1791 located in the coverage area 1713c is configured to connect to or be paged by a corresponding base station 1712c wirelessly. A second UE 1792 within the coverage area 1713a can wirelessly connect to a corresponding base station 1712a. Although multiple UEs 1791, 1792 are shown in this example, the disclosed embodiments are equally applicable to situations where a single UE is within a coverage area or is connected to a corresponding base station 1712.

[0222] The communication network 1710 itself is connected to a host computer 1730, which may be embodied in hardware and / or software of a standalone server, a cloud-implemented server, a distributed server, or as a processing resource in a server farm. The host computer 1730 may be owned or controlled by a service provider, or may be operated by or on behalf of the service provider. The connection 1721, 1722 between the communication network 1710 and the host computer 1730 may extend directly from the core network 1714 to the host computer 1730, or may pass through an optional intermediate network 1720. The intermediate network 1720 may be one or a combination of two or more of a public network, a private network, or a hosted network, and if present, the intermediate network 1720 may be a backbone network or the Internet, and in particular the intermediate network 1720 may comprise two or more sub-networks (not shown).

[0223] The communication system 1700 of FIG. 17 generally enables connectivity between one of the connected UEs 1791, 1792 and a host computer 1730. The connectivity may be described as an over-the-top (OTT) connection 1750. The host computer 1730 and the connected UEs 1791, 1792 are configured to communicate data and / or signaling via the OTT connection 1750 using the access network 1711, the core network 1714, any intermediate networks 1720, and possible further infrastructure (not shown) as intermediaries. The OTT connection 1750 may be transparent in the sense that the involved communication devices through which the OTT connection 1750 passes are unaware of the routing of the uplink and downlink communications. For example, the base station 1712 may not be or need not be informed of the past routing of incoming downlink communications involving data originating from the host computer 1730 that is to be forwarded (e.g., handed over) to the connected UE 1791. Similarly, the base station 1712 does not need to be aware of the future routing of outgoing uplink communications originating from the UE 1791 and destined for the host computer 1730.

[0224] Methods 300 and 400 may be implemented by any one of UEs 1791 or 1792 and / or any one of base stations 1712 to improve performance of the OTT connection 1750, for example, in terms of increased throughput and / or reduced latency.

[0225] An exemplary implementation according to one embodiment of the UE, base station and host computer described in the preceding paragraphs is described below with reference to FIG. 18. In the communication system 1800, the host computer 1810 comprises hardware 1815 including a communication interface 1816 configured to set up and maintain wired or wireless connections with interfaces of different communication devices of the communication system 1800. The host computer 1810 further comprises a processing circuit 1818, which may have memory and / or processing capabilities. In particular, the processing circuit 1818 may comprise one or more programmable processors, application specific integrated circuits, field programmable gate arrays, or combinations of the above (not shown) adapted to execute instructions. The host computer 1810 further comprises software 1811 stored in or accessible by the host computer 1810 and executable by the processing circuit 1818. The software 1811 includes a host application 1812. The host application 1812 may be operable to provide services to remote users, such as the UE 1830 connecting via an OTT connection 1850 terminating at the UE 1830 and the host computer 1810. In providing services to the remote users, the host application 1812 may provide user data transmitted using the OTT connection 1850. The user data may depend on the location of the UE 1830 (e.g., related to respiratory protection requirements). The user data may include aiding information or precision advertisements (also advertisements) delivered to the UE 1830. The location may be reported by the UE 1830 to the host computer, e.g., using the OTT connection 1850, and / or may be reported by the base station 1820, e.g., using the connection 1860.

[0226] The communication system 1800 further includes a base station 1820 comprising hardware 1825 provided within the communication system to enable communication with the host computer 1810 and the UE 1830. The hardware 1825 may include a communication interface 1826 for setting up and maintaining wired or wireless connections with interfaces of different communication devices of the communication system 1800, as well as a wireless interface 1827 for setting up and maintaining at least a wireless connection 1870 with a UE 1830 located within a coverage area (not shown in FIG. 18 ) served by the base station 1820. The communication interface 1826 may be configured to facilitate a connection 1860 to the host computer 1810. The connection 1860 may be direct or through a core network (not shown in FIG. 18 ) of the communication system and / or one or more intermediate networks external to the communication system. In the illustrated embodiment, the hardware 1825 of the base station 1820 further includes processing circuitry 1828, which may comprise one or more programmable processors, application specific integrated circuits, field programmable gate arrays, or combinations of the above (not shown), adapted to execute instructions. The base station 1820 further has software 1821, either stored internally or accessible via an external connection.

[0227] The communication system 1800 further includes the UE 1830 already mentioned. The hardware 1835 of the UE 1830 may include a wireless interface 1837 configured to set up and maintain a wireless connection 1870 with a base station serving a coverage area in which the UE 1830 is currently located. The hardware 1835 of the UE 1830 further includes a processing circuit 1838, which may comprise one or more programmable processors, application specific integrated circuits, field programmable gate arrays, or combinations of the above (not shown) adapted to execute instructions. The UE 1830 further includes software 1831 stored in or accessible by the UE 1830 and executable by the processing circuit 1838. The software 1831 includes a client application 1832. The client application 1832, with the support of the host computer 1810, may be operable to provide services to a human or non-human user via the UE 1830. At the host computer 1810, an executing host application 1812 may communicate with an executing client application 1832 via an OTT connection 1850 that terminates at the UE 1830 and the host computer 1810. In providing services to a user, the client application 1832 may receive requested data from the host application 1812 and provide user data in response to the requested data. The OTT connection 1850 may transport both the requested data and the user data. The client application 1832 may interact with the user and generate user data to provide.

[0228] It should be noted that the host computer 1810, base station 1820, and UE 1830 shown in Figure 18 may be identical to the host computer 1730, one of the base stations 1712a, 1712b, 1712c, and one of the UEs 1791, 1792, respectively, of Figure 17. That is, the internal workings of these entities may be as shown in Figure 18, and alternatively, the surrounding network topology may be that of Figure 17.

[0229] 18, the OTT connection 1850 is depicted abstractly to show communication between the host computer 1810 and the user equipment 1830 via the base station 1820, without explicit reference to intermediate devices and the exact routing of messages through the intermediate devices. The network infrastructure may determine the routing, which may be configured to hide the routing from the UE 1830, or from the service provider operating the host computer 1810, or both. While the OTT connection 1850 is active, the network infrastructure may also make decisions to dynamically change the routing (e.g., based on load balancing considerations or network reconfiguration).

[0230] The wireless connection 1870 between the UE 1830 and the base station 1820 follows the teachings of the embodiments described throughout this disclosure. One or more of the various embodiments improve the implementation of the OTT service provided to the UE 1830 using the OTT connection 1850 of which the wireless connection 1870 forms the final segment. More precisely, the teachings of these embodiments may reduce latency and improve data rates, thereby providing benefits such as better responsiveness.

[0231] Measurement procedures may be provided for the purpose of monitoring data rates, latency, and other factors that one or more embodiments improve upon. There may further be an optional network function to reconfigure the OTT connection 1850 between the host computer 1810 and the UE 1830 in response to fluctuations in the measurement results. The measurement procedures and / or the network function to reconfigure the OTT connection 1850 may be implemented in the software 1811 of the host computer 1810, or in the software 1831 of the UE 1830, or both. In an embodiment, sensors (not shown) may be deployed in or associated with the communication device through which the OTT connection 1850 passes, and these sensors may participate in the measurement procedures by providing values ​​of the monitoring quantities exemplified above, or by providing values ​​of other physical quantities from which the software 1811, 1831 may calculate or estimate the monitoring quantities. The reconfiguration of the OTT connection 1850 may include message formats, retransmission settings, preferred routing, etc., and the reconfiguration need not affect the base station 1820, and the reconfiguration may be unknown or imperceptible to the base station 1820. Such procedures and functions may be known or practiced in the art. In certain embodiments, the measurements may involve proprietary UE signaling that facilitates measurements by the host computer 1810 of throughput, propagation time, latency, etc. The measurements may be accomplished in that the software 1811, 1831 sends messages, particularly null or "dummy" messages, using the OTT connection 1850 while monitoring propagation times, errors, etc.

[0232] FIG. 19 is a flow chart illustrating a method implemented in a communication system according to one embodiment. The communication system includes a host computer, a base station, and a UE, which may be as described with reference to FIG. 17 and FIG. 18. To simplify the disclosure, only the drawing reference of FIG. 19 is included in this section. In a first step 1910 of the method, the host computer provides user data. In an optional sub-step 1911 of the first step 1910, the host computer provides the user data by executing a host application. In a second step 1920, the host computer initiates a transmission carrying the user data to the UE. In an optional third step 1930, the base station transmits the user data carried in the host computer initiated transmission to the UE, according to the teachings of the embodiments described throughout this disclosure. In an optional fourth step 1940, the UE executes a client application associated with the host application executed by the host computer.

[0233] FIG. 20 is a flow chart illustrating a method implemented in a communication system according to one embodiment. The communication system includes a host computer, a base station, and a UE, which may be as described with reference to FIG. 17 and FIG. 18. To simplify the disclosure, only the drawing reference of FIG. 20 is included in this section. In a first step 2010 of the method, the host computer provides user data. In an optional sub-step (not shown), the host computer provides the user data by executing a host application. In a second step 2020, the host computer initiates a transmission carrying the user data to the UE. The transmission may pass via a base station according to the teachings of the embodiments described throughout this disclosure. In an optional third step 2030, the UE receives the user data carried in the transmission.

[0234] As is evident from the above description, the embodiment of the present technique allows controlling an actuator of a protective mask to selectively assume a closed state for respiratory protection and an open state in which respiratory airflow resistance is reduced compared to the closed state. Preferably, the actuator of the protective mask exchanges control signals with a control device implementing an algorithm based on one or more information signals indicative of the environment of the protective mask. The one or more information signals may be received at the control device based on wireless and / or mobile technology to determine and / or evaluate the opening and / or closing of the protective mask.

[0235] The protective mask may comprise an actuator and / or actuation mechanism to selectively open and close. Alternatively or additionally, the protective mask may be equipped with a sensor and / or a camera. Alternatively or additionally, the control device may comprise logic to selectively open and close the mask. Alternatively or additionally, the interaction of the communication unit of the control device with the environment may be based on wireless and / or mobile technology to gather information and / or data for the decision algorithm.

[0236] The many advantages of the present invention will be fully appreciated from the above description, and it will be apparent that various changes may be made in the form, construction and arrangement of the units and devices without departing from the scope of the invention and / or without sacrificing all of its advantages. Because the invention can be modified in many ways, it will be recognized that the invention should be limited only by the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. 1. A method (300) for controlling an actuator of a protective mask (200) configured to selectively assume a closed state for respiratory protection and an open state in which respiratory airflow resistance is reduced compared to the respiratory airflow resistance of the closed state, comprising: receiving (302) at least one information signal indicative of an environment of said protective mask (200); sending (306) a control signal to the actuator of the protective mask (200) to selectively assume the closed state and the open state in response to the at least one information signal; in response to said emission of the control signal controlling said actuator to assume said closed state, sending a further control message to a locking mechanism of a building in said environment associated with said local requirement of respiratory protection, said further control message indicating said closed state of said protective mask (200) and / or including a request to unlock said locking mechanism; The method (300) includes or commences:

2. and evaluating (304) the at least one information signal received (302) in relation to the local requirements for respiratory protection; 2. The method (300) of claim 1, wherein said step of sending a control signal (306) controls said actuator to selectively assume said open state and said closed state depending on the result of said evaluating step (304).

3. said at least one information signal indicating at least one of a position of said protective mask (200) and a type of position of said protective mask (200); the evaluating step (304) includes determining whether the at least one received (302) information signal indicates a positive local requirement for respiratory protection in the environment using a map associating at least one of the position of the protective mask (200) and the type of the position of the protective mask (200) with a positive local requirement; 3. The method of claim 2 (300).

4. The method (300) of claim 2 or 3, wherein the at least one information signal is indicative of at least one of one or more persons and one or more portable wireless devices in the environment of the protective mask (200).

5. The method (300) of claim 4, wherein the evaluating step (304) includes determining whether the received (302) at least one information signal indicates a positive local requirement for the respiratory protection in the environment based on a number or density of at least one of the one or more persons and the one or more portable wireless devices in the environment of the protective mask (200), optionally when the number or density of the one or more persons and at least one of the one or more portable wireless devices exceeds a predefined threshold.

6. if said at least one information signal indicates that said protective mask (200) is located indoors, said at least one information signal indicates a positive local requirement for said respiratory protection; and / or if the at least one information signal indicates that the protective mask (200) is located outdoors, the at least one information signal does not indicate the positive local requirement for the respiratory protection, and / or 6. The method (300) according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein if the at least one information signal indicates that the protective mask (200) is located outdoors, the at least one information signal indicates a negative local requirement for the respiratory protection.

7. 7. The method (300) of any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein the at least one information signal indicates an identifier of at least one of buildings and wireless devices in the environment, and the evaluating step (304) includes comparing the received (302) at least one information signal with a stored list of at least one of buildings and wireless devices.

8. the stored list comprises an exclusion list of wireless devices that are excluded from the evaluation (304) of the received (302) at least one information signal related to the local requirements for respiratory protection, optionally the exclusion list comprising identifiers of wireless devices used in the home of a user of the protective mask (200); and / or 8. The method (300) of claim 7, wherein the stored list includes an exclusion list of buildings where the sent (306) control signal controls the actuator to assume the open state, and optionally, the exclusion list includes an identifier of a residential building of a household of a user of the protective mask (200).

9. the stored list includes a restriction list of wireless devices, in response to an identifier of the wireless device, the emitted (306) control signal controls the actuator to assume the closed state, optionally the restriction list includes an identifier of a wireless device used by a person of an infection risk group; and / or The method (300) according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the stored list includes a restriction list of buildings where the sent (306) control signal controls the actuator to assume the closed state, and optionally the restriction list includes identifiers of buildings used by persons of an infection risk group.

10. The method (300) of any one of claims 2 to 9, wherein the at least one information signal indicates a distance between the protective mask (200) and at least one portable wireless device or a person in the environment of the protective mask (200), and the evaluating step (304) includes determining whether the distance is less than a predefined threshold.

11. 11. The method (300) of claim 10, wherein the emitted (306) control signal controls the actuator to assume the closed state if the distance is less than the predefined threshold, and / or the emitted (306) control signal controls the actuator to assume the open state if the distance is above the predefined threshold.

12. 12. The method (300) according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the received (302) at least one information signal is excluded from the evaluating step (304) in relation to the local requirement for respiratory protection if the distance indicated by the at least one information signal exceeds the predefined threshold.

13. 13. The method (300) of any one of claims 2 to 12, wherein the received (302) at least one information signal comprises an image signal, and the evaluating (304) comprises recognizing one or more persons based on the image signal.

14. The at least one information signal optionally includes at least one radio signal received (302) on a downlink from a Radio Access Network (RAN) or a radio base station, or on a sidelink from one or more wireless devices; and / or The at least one information signal indicative of the environment of the protective mask (200) comprises at least one radio signal of a Radio Navigation Satellite Service (RNSS) or a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNNS); and / or the at least one information signal comprises at least one radio signal for radio frequency identification (RFID); and / or the at least one information signal comprises at least one radio signal of a wireless local area network (WLAN); and / or the at least one information signal includes at least one wireless signal for device-to-device communication; The method (300) of any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. A method (400) implemented by a protective mask (200) with an actuator selectively adopting a closed state for respiratory protection and an open state in which the respiratory airflow resistance is reduced compared to the closed state, the protective mask (200) being integrated with or in signal exchange with a control device (100) adapted to carry out the method according to any one of claims 1 to 14, receiving (406) a control signal for selectively locating the actuator of the protective mask (200) in the closed state and the open state; selectively positioning the protective mask (200) in the closed or open state using the actuator in response to the control signal received (406); The method (400) includes or commences:

16. acquiring (402) at said protective mask (200) at least one information signal indicative of the environment of said protective mask (200); a step (404) of transmitting from the protective mask (200) to a control device (100) the at least one information signal indicative of the environment of the protective mask (200), the control signal being received (406) from the control device (100); 20. The method of claim 15, further comprising:

17. A control device (100) for controlling an actuator of a protective mask (200) arranged to selectively assume a closed state for respiratory protection and an open state in which the respiratory airflow resistance is reduced compared to the respiratory airflow resistance in the closed state, the control device (100) being adapted to carry out the method according to any one of claims 1 to 14. The control device (100) is set as follows.

18. A protective mask (200) selectively adopting, by means of an actuator of the protective mask (200), a closed state for respiratory protection and an open state in which respiratory airflow resistance is reduced compared to the respiratory airflow resistance in the closed state, the protective mask (200) being integrated with or in signal exchange with a control device (100) according to claim 17, receiving a control signal for selectively positioning the actuator of the protective mask (200) in the closed state and the open state; Utilizing the actuator to selectively place the protective mask in the closed or open state in response to the received control signal. The protective mask (200) is set as follows.

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