Humidifilter

[0002] NONE (NOT APPLICABLE)

[0003] NONE (NOT APPLICABLE)

[0004] 1) Technical Field

[0005] The invention falls within the field of protective filtration masks. In particular, it is adapted to easily provide humidification as well as filtration of inspired air in conditions where ambient air is excessively dry. It has particularly been designed to serve the needs of patients with chronic lung disorders.

[0006] 2) Background Art

[0007] A number of similar devices have been patented for this same purpose since 1897. Humidification and filtration of ambient air which is low in humidity and high in particulate matter and microbes is not a new concept: benefits are cited in a number of the patent documents, particularly in U.S. Pat. No. 3,612,049, “personal humidifier”, by A. V. Monson, U.S. Pat. No. 3,881,482, “device for moistening and heating inhalation air with tracheostomy and endotracheal tube intubation” by C. Lindholm, U.S. Pat. No. 4,267,831, “nasal air filter and medicament device” by M. Aguilar, and U.S. Pat. No. 4,146,026, “filter mask”, by V. H. Montalvo.

[0008] Particularly similarly conceived devices were patented since 1987: U.S. Pat. No. 4,705,033, “humidification face mask” by P. F. Halfpenny, U.S. Pat. No. 4,941,467, “humidification face mask”, by D. Takata, and U.S. Pat. No. 4,503,851 by K. Braunroth.

[0009] The heretofore patented devices provide both filtration and humidification of dry ambient air. They also result in relatively and significantly increased inspiratory air flow resistance. They are heavier and therefore less comfortable to wear. Cost and ease of distribution to large groups (e.g. air travelers) is an obstacle to accessibility.

[0010] It is specifically the object of the invention to provide an easily affordable, disposable humidifying and filtering mask, useful for persons with normal lungs, but particularly adaptable to individuals with chronic lung disease who can not generate sufficient negative inspiratory force to make use of existing masks realistic.

[0011] Chronic lung disorders are extremely common and more severe in older people in general. Individuals with such conditions are subject to exacerbations due to exposure to pulmonary irritants, microbes, and excessively dry air, all of which are encountered in long distance air craft travel and similar environments. These lung disorders are most often associated with impaired lung function. Individuals with these disorders benefit most from humidification and filtration. A significant deterrent to prolonged use of these devices is that resistance to inspiration and its effect on the work of breathing imposed by the device mitigates against its comfortable and safe use.

[0012] The invention allows achievement of relatively comfortable humidification and filtration with imposition of the lowest inspiratory resistance of any practical personal device currently available because inspiration is accomplished through the entire porous surface of paper mask, as opposed to restricted orifice sizes.

[0013] Humidifying filtration mask devised to provide lowest possible inspiratory air flow resistance by utilizing a paper filter mask provided with an open cell foam reservoir on its inner or facial surface; particularly suitable for use by individuals with chronic lung disorders and respiratory insufficiency.

[0014] FIGS. 1, 2, & 3 respectively present perspectives, cutaway and sagittal sections, right sided oblique of the facial side, and of the back of the mask.

[0015] FIG. 1 depicts the mask over the face and held in place by rubber band 7 which is secured to the sided of the mask with stainless staples 7a.Paper mask 1 is shown with the commonly encountered corrugated snout, which helps to maintain concavity towards the face. The open cell foam reservoir 2 measures approximately 4×4×1 cm., and is secured to the mask by glue points, sutures, or plastic rivets at three or more points at levels 3, 4, 5, & 6. A coating or liner of plastic glaze 8 of a flexible nature is depicted along the facial edge of the mask to prevent irritation to the skin by long term exposure to the wet paper of the mask.

[0016] FIG. 2 depicts the placement position of the reservoir 2 in oblique view from the right, along with the elastic 7 and the plastic shield 8.

[0017] FIG. 3 depicts the reservoir approximate shape and location from the back of the mask 1, along with elastic band 7 and plastic liner 8.

[0018] Best Mode for Application

[0019] The mask can be mass produced at relatively low costs so that distribution to large numbers of individuals may be facilitated and made more accessible, particularly to individuals with chronic lung disorders. It may be used during most of the hours of closed doors and flight within aircraft. A teaspoon (5 mL) of water charges the reservoir 2 which disperses moisture evenly throughout the material of the paper mask 1. The negative inspiratory force required for inspiration through the complex is imperceptibly greater then normal inspiration without a mask. It is compatible with devices for administration of supplemental oxygen. Expired air is rich in moisture, and recharges the mask and reservoir without addition of more water, except under extreme conditions of dry ambient air.