Heat exchange mask

By designing a heat exchange mask and using the combination of a heat exchange layer and a water collector, the problem that the existing technology cannot effectively change the temperature and humidity of the inhaled air is solved, and the effect of heating and humidifying cold air and protecting the respiratory system is achieved.

WO2025043807A1PCT designated stage expired Publication Date: 2025-03-06CHENG GANGQIANG
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Patent Information

Application Number
PCT/CN2023/122186
Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2023-09-02
Filing Date
2023-09-27
Publication Date
2025-03-06

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing warm masks cannot effectively change the temperature and humidity of the inhaled air, and cannot effectively protect the human body's respiratory system from the invasion of cold air.

Method used

A heat exchange mask is designed, including an outer layer, an inner layer and a heat exchange layer. A water collector is provided at the lower part of the heat exchange layer. When the exhaled gas passes through the heat exchange layer, the saturated water vapor heats the heat exchange layer, and the stored heat and water vapor heat the air when inhaling.

Benefits of technology

The heat exchange layer changes the inhaled cold and dry air into warm and humid air, effectively protecting the respiratory system and reducing the discomfort caused by breathing cold air.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

A heat exchange mask, comprising an outer layer (1) and an inner layer (2). The inner layer (2) is attached to the face; the outer layer (1) is displayed on the outer side of the face; a heat exchange layer (3) is arranged between the outer layer (1) and the inner layer (2); a water collector (4) is arranged at the lower portion of the heat exchange layer (3); hanging ropes (5) are mounted on two sides of the outer layer (1); and the heat exchange layer (3) is located right in front of the mouth and nose and has a heat capacity. By means of the heat exchange layer (3), inhaled cold and dry air can be changed into warm and moist air, which is equivalent to enhancing the capability of the nose, protecting the human respiratory system from being damaged by cold air, and reducing discomfort caused by breathing cold air, and by using the heat exchange mask, the inhaled cold air can be heated and the humidity of the inhaled cold air can be increased, effectively overcoming the final hurdle for humans in protecting themselves against the cold.
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Description

A heat exchange mask Technical Field

[0001] The invention provides a novel warm-keeping mask, in particular a heat-exchange mask. Background Art

[0002] There are many types of masks, which are generally used to filter dust, smoke, fog, microorganisms, etc. in the air. Masks can also be used to keep warm and isolate the face from cold air;

[0003] General thermal masks are made of several layers of cotton cloth, some of which are also filled with cotton wool. These masks have good air permeability and can isolate larger dust particles. In terms of warmth, they can isolate the cheeks and chin from cold air, playing a role in keeping the face warm. However, they have no significant effect on the cold air inhaled into the mouth and nose, and cannot protect the upper and lower respiratory tract in severe cold environments.

[0004] However, the only thing the human body has no effective protection against in winter is the cold air entering the mouth and nose. Ordinary masks can only keep the face warm and hardly change the temperature and humidity of the inhaled cold air.

[0005] To this end, it is necessary to design a new type of warm mask that can change the temperature and humidity of the inhaled air and perform heat exchange with the cold air entering the respiratory tract. In this mask, the energy required to warm the cold air comes from the energy of the exhaled saturated water vapor.

[0006] Summary of the Invention

[0007] In order to solve the above technical problems, the present invention provides a heat exchange mask to solve the problems raised in the background technology.

[0008] A heat exchange mask comprises an outer layer and an inner layer, wherein the inner layer fits the face and the outer layer is displayed on the outside of the face; a heat exchange layer is arranged between the outer and inner layers; a water collector is arranged at the lower part of the heat exchange layer; and hanging ropes are installed on both sides of the outer layer; the heat exchange layer is located directly in front of the mouth and nose and has heat capacity.

[0009] Preferably, the outer layer and the inner layer are made of cotton, gauze or non-woven fabric.

[0010] Preferably, the water collector is one of cotton, absorbent paper, cotton cloth, paper towel or super absorbent resin.

[0011] Preferably, when the exhaled gas passes through the heat exchange layer, the saturated water vapor quickly heats the heat exchange layer, and the temperature of the heat exchange layer rises; when the air temperature is very low, the temperature of the heat exchange layer is relatively low, and the exhaled saturated water vapor meets the heat exchange layer, the water vapor liquefies and releases a large amount of heat, heating the heat exchange layer, and the water vapor liquefies and turns into liquid water droplets, which are absorbed by the water collector at the bottom of the heat exchange layer; when exhalation ends, the heat exchange layer stores a portion of the heat and water vapor discharged by the human body during exhalation, providing energy for heating the air during inhalation.

[0012] Preferably, after exhalation is completed, the heat exchange layer space still contains water vapor and water droplets obtained by liquefying the water vapor.

[0013] Preferably, when inhaling, the external cold air passes through the heat exchange layer, absorbs the heat and water vapor stored in the heat exchange layer, and heats and humidifies the air; during the inhalation process, the cold air absorbs heat and its temperature rises, and the heat exchange layer loses heat and its temperature drops.

[0014] Preferably, the temperature of the air in the mask fluctuates around the temperature of the heat exchange layer, with the temperature rising during exhalation and falling during inhalation.

[0015] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following beneficial effects:

[0016] The present invention can change the inhaled cold and dry air into warm and humid air through the heat exchange layer, which is equivalent to enhancing the ability of the nose, protecting the human respiratory system from the invasion of cold air, and reducing the discomfort caused by breathing cold air. Using a heat exchange mask can heat up the inhaled cold air and increase the humidity, effectively solving the last barrier for humans to resist the cold. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] FIG1 is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the present invention;

[0018] FIG2 is a table showing the temperature changes of the air inside the mask and the heat exchanger during inhalation and exhalation when the ambient temperature is 3° C.;

[0019] FIG3 is a table showing the temperature changes of the air inside the mask and the heat exchanger during inhalation and exhalation when the ambient temperature is -15°C;

[0020] FIG4 is a table showing the temperature changes of the air inside the mask and the heat exchanger during inhalation and exhalation when the ambient temperature is -15°C after the heat capacity of the present invention is increased;

[0021] FIG5 is a table showing the temperature changes of the air inside the mask and the heat exchanger during inhalation and exhalation when the ambient temperature is a high temperature environment of 55° C.

[0022] In the figure: 1. Outer layer; 2. Inner layer; 3. Heat exchange layer; 4. Water collector; 5. Hanging rope. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] The following embodiments of the present invention are described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and examples. The following examples are used to illustrate the present invention but are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0024] As shown in Figures 1 to 5:

[0025] Example 1: The present invention provides a heat exchange mask, primarily composed of an outer layer, an inner layer, an intermediate layer, a water collector, and a hanging rope. The outer and inner layers can be made of cotton, gauze, non-woven fabric, or other commonly used mask fabrics. Between the inner and outer layers is an intermediate layer, which serves as a heat exchange layer and is made of a mesh or porous material with a certain heat capacity and good air permeability. Below the heat exchange layer is a water collector made of absorbent paper or other absorbent material. The intermediate layer can also be layered with other materials that filter viruses and bacteria and purify the air to enhance its use.

[0026] The middle layer is the heat exchange layer, which has a certain heat capacity and good air permeability. The inner and outer layers in contact with the heat exchange layer also require good air permeability in this area. Other areas of the inner and outer layers have poor or no air permeability requirements. The heat exchange layer can be fixed to the inner and outer layers, or the inner and outer layers can form a pocket, which is placed inside during use and removed for cleaning after use.

[0027] After wearing the heat exchange mask, the heat exchange layer is located directly in front of the mouth and nose. When exhaling and inhaling, the airflow must pass through the highly breathable heat exchange layer. The heat exchange layer has a certain heat capacity and can store heat. The airflow direction during breathing can also be sideways, but it must pass through the heat exchange layer.

[0028] Example 2: When exhaling:

[0029] The temperature of human exhaled gas is 36℃-37℃, and its main components are: nitrogen (75%), oxygen (16%), rare gases (0.94%), carbon dioxide (4%), and water vapor (4.06%). The gas exhaled by humans is almost saturated water vapor.

[0030] When exhaled air passes through the heat exchange layer, the saturated water vapor, at a temperature of 36-37°C, rapidly heats the heat exchange layer, causing it to rise in temperature. When exhalation ends, the temperature of the heat exchange layer approaches 36°C. In very cold temperatures, the heat exchange layer is still relatively low. When the exhaled saturated water vapor encounters the heat exchange layer, it liquefies and releases a significant amount of heat, heating the heat exchange layer until the temperature approaches 36°C. The liquefied water vapor then transforms into liquid water droplets, which are absorbed by the water collector below the heat exchange layer. Because the air passes unevenly through the heat exchange layer, the temperature of the heat exchange layer is not uniform, but the overall temperature is close to the temperature of exhaled air.

[0031] When exhalation is complete, the temperature of the heat exchange layer is approximately 20°C-36°C. This layer stores some of the heat and water vapor expelled during exhalation, providing energy for heating the air during inhalation. Furthermore, the heat exchange layer also contains water vapor and liquefied water droplets.

[0032] Example 3: When inhaling:

[0033] When inhaling, the external cold air passes through the heat exchange layer and absorbs the heat and water vapor stored in the heat exchange layer, making the air warmer and humidified. When it enters the mouth and nose, the temperature and humidity will change significantly, reducing the discomfort caused by the dry and cold air.

[0034] When the air flows through the water droplets in the heat exchange layer quickly, some of the water droplets will vaporize, increasing the humidity of the air.

[0035] During the inhalation process, the cold air absorbs heat and its temperature rises, while the heat exchange layer loses heat and its temperature drops. At the end of the inhalation, the temperature of the heat exchange layer remains above 10°C. Above this temperature, most people can breathe freely for a long time.

[0036] In summary, the air temperature inside a heat exchange mask fluctuates around the temperature of the heat exchange layer, rising during exhalation and falling during inhalation. The air temperature inside a heat exchange mask varies at different ambient temperatures. Even with the same heat exchange layer, the air temperature fluctuations inside the mask vary for different ambient temperatures. At the same ambient temperature, the air temperature fluctuations inside the mask vary depending on the heat capacity of the heat exchange layer.

[0037] Regarding the material and shape of the heat exchange layer

[0038] Common metal and non-metal materials can meet the heat capacity requirements. Commonly used materials include aluminum, copper, iron, stainless steel, plastics, and fabric. Metal materials can be processed into mesh, perforated foil, plate, or other specialized shapes. Plastics can also use fine wire mesh; fabrics should have good air permeability. All materials must be non-toxic, harmless, and low-odor, and their shapes must be safe, without thorns or sharp corners.

[0039] Example 1: Using multi-layer aluminum mesh, the multi-layer aluminum mesh can be put into a pocket.

[0040] Example 2: Use multiple layers of aluminum foil, make holes in the foil, and put it in a pocket.

[0041] Example 3: Using a cloth bag with a granular or mesh heat exchange layer material inside the bag.

[0042] Example 4: Plastic filaments are used and woven into a three-dimensional structure with a complex shape.

[0043] Material and shape of water collector:

[0044] The main function of the water collector is to absorb water. Various safe absorbent materials can be used. Commonly used materials are: cotton, absorbent paper, cotton cloth, paper towels, and various other super absorbent resins (SAP) can also be used.

[0045] Shape: Folded or rolled or pocket-shaped (heat exchange layer is placed inside).

[0046] Because facial shapes vary, the heat exchange layer's material must be able to bend and squeeze to accommodate facial contours. A water collector ensures long-term comfort when wearing a heat exchange mask, and its effectiveness is particularly pronounced at low temperatures. After several hours of use, the mask may become wet, at which point it can be replaced. In temperatures above 15°C, water vapor liquefaction is minimal, and the water collector can be omitted.

[0047] The usage occasions are as follows:

[0048] Winter outdoor activities: In the winter when the temperature is low, the heat exchange mask can be used for long-term outdoor activities, expanding the space for living and working.

[0049] Sports: Since the heat exchange mask has little air resistance, it can be used for sports. Dry throat is a common problem in sports. Using the heat exchange mask can inhale moist air, replenish the body's water consumption, and improve the discomfort of dry throat.

[0050] Outdoor sports: During outdoor sports, using this heat exchange mask can significantly reduce the loss of body heat during breathing, improve and prevent the occurrence of hypothermia.

[0051] For patients who have undergone nasal surgery (or those who must breathe through their mouths), using this heat exchange mask can reduce the discomfort caused by dry air.

[0052] When working in a high temperature environment above 40℃, using this heat exchange mask can reduce the temperature of the inhaled air and allow you to work longer.

[0053] It is important to note that the construction and arrangement of the present application shown in a number of different exemplary embodiments are merely illustrative. Although only a few embodiments are described in detail in this disclosure, it should be readily understood by those who refer to this disclosure that many modifications are possible (e.g., the size, scale, structure, shape and proportion of various elements, as well as parameter values ​​(e.g., temperature, pressure, etc.), mounting arrangements, use of materials, color, directional changes, etc.) without departing substantially from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter described in this application. For example, an element shown as integrally formed may be composed of multiple parts or elements, the position of the element may be inverted or otherwise changed, and the nature or number or position of the discrete elements may be altered or changed. Therefore, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention. The order or sequence of any process or method steps may be changed or reordered according to alternative embodiments. In the claims, any "means plus function" clause is intended to cover the structure described herein that performs the function, and is not only structurally equivalent but also equivalent structures. Other replacements, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention. Therefore, the invention is not limited to the specific embodiments, but extends to various modifications that still fall within the scope of the appended claims.

[0054] Additionally, in order to provide a concise description of exemplary embodiments, all features of an actual embodiment (ie, those features that are not relevant to the best mode presently contemplated for carrying out the invention or those that are not relevant to implementing the invention) may not be described.

[0055] It will be appreciated that in the development of any actual embodiment, as in any engineering or design project, numerous implementation-specific decisions may be made. Such a development effort may be complex and time-consuming, but will, for those of ordinary skill having the benefit of this disclosure, be a routine undertaking of design, fabrication, and production without undue experimentation.

[0056] It should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that the technical solutions of the present invention may be modified or replaced by equivalents without departing from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the present invention, which should all be included in the scope of the claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. A heat exchange mask, characterized in that: It includes an outer layer and an inner layer, the inner layer fits the face, the outer layer is displayed on the outside of the face, a heat exchange layer is arranged between the outer layer and the inner layer, a water collector is arranged at the lower part of the heat exchange layer, and hanging ropes are installed on both sides of the outer layer; the heat exchange layer is located in front of the mouth and nose, and the heat exchange layer has heat capacity.

2. A heat exchange mask as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that: The outer layer and the inner layer material are one of cotton cloth, gauze or non-woven fabric.

3. A heat exchange mask as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that: The water collector is one of cotton, absorbent paper, cotton cloth, paper towel or highly absorbent resin.

4. A heat exchange mask as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that: When the exhaled gas passes through the heat exchange layer, the warm saturated water vapor quickly heats the heat exchange layer, and the temperature of the heat exchange layer rises; when the air temperature is very low, the temperature of the heat exchange layer is relatively low, and the exhaled saturated water vapor meets the heat exchange layer, the water vapor liquefies and releases a large amount of heat, heating the heat exchange layer, and the water vapor liquefies and becomes liquid water droplets, which are absorbed by the water collector at the bottom of the heat exchange layer; when exhalation ends, the heat exchange layer stores a portion of the heat and water vapor discharged by the human body during exhalation, providing energy for heating the air during inhalation.

5. A heat exchange mask as claimed in claim 4, characterized in that: After exhalation is finished, the space in the heat exchange layer still contains water vapor and water droplets obtained by liquefying the water vapor.

6. A heat exchange mask as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that: When inhaling, the external cold air passes through the heat exchange layer, absorbs the heat and water vapor stored in the heat exchange layer, and heats and humidifies the air; during the inhalation process, the cold air absorbs heat and the temperature rises, and the heat exchange layer loses heat and the temperature drops.

7. A heat exchange mask as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that: The temperature of the air inside the mask fluctuates around the temperature of the heat exchange layer, rising when you exhale and falling when you inhale.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

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