WO2009144695A1

WO2009144695A1 - Respiratory mask

Info

Publication number: WO2009144695A1
Application number: PCT/IL2008/000511
Authority: WO
Inventors: Avi Paule Mandelik
Original assignee: Apone-Line Ltd.
Priority date: 2008-04-15
Filing date: 2008-04-15
Publication date: 2009-12-03

Abstract

Respiratory mask. For example, a respiratory mask includes: a mask body comprising a nose region to cover at least a nose area of a human face, and a mouth region to cover at least a mouth area of the human face, wherein the mask body comprises one-way exhalation valves embedded therein, to expel air exhaled by the human, and wherein the mask body comprises a frame that is attachable to the human face; and a filter ensemble assembled to the mask body, to filter air inhaled by the human, wherein a main axis of the filter ensemble is generally parallel to a plane defined by the face of the human.

Description

RESPIRATORY MASK

FIELD

[001] Some embodiments of the invention are related to the field of respiratory masks.

BACKGROUND

[002] In some urban areas, pedestrians, bicycle riders and motorcycle riders are exposed to pollution, vehicular smoke, and offensive odors.

[003] Unfortunately, existing masks, for example, masks that include a cloth-filter or a paper- filter, may not sufficiently reduce the inhaling of pollution, vehicular smoke, and offensive odors.

SUMMARY

[004] Some embodiments include, for example, devices and mechanisms of respiratory masks. [005] Some embodiments include, for example, a respiratory mask including: a mask body comprising a nose region to cover at least a nose area of a human face, and a mouth region to cover at least a mouth area of the human face, wherein the mask body comprises one-way exhalation valves embedded therein, to expel air exhaled by the human, and wherein the mask body comprises a frame that is attachable to the human face; and a filter ensemble assembled to the mask body, to filter air inhaled by the human, wherein a main axis of the filter ensemble is generally parallel to a plane defined by the face of the human.

[006] hi some embodiments, the mask body maintains an eyes area of the human face uncovered.

[007] In some embodiments, the filter ensemble comprises a compartment to store a fragrant- emitting substance.

[008] In some embodiments, the respiratory mask includes: a nose clip made of a compressible material to detachably-attach the respiratory mask to a human nose, wherein the nose clip comprises a U shaped portion.

[009] In some embodiments, the nose clip comprises a ring-shaped gripping portion to accommodate therethrough one or more fingers of the human. [0010] In some embodiments, the nose clip comprises an attachment/detachment mechanism to detachably-attach the respiratory mask to a closed helmet.

[0011] In some embodiments, the filter ensemble comprises a replaceable filter connected to a filter housing.

[0012] In some embodiments, at least a portion of an outer surface of the mask body comprises one or more graphical elements.

[0013] In some embodiments, the respiratory mask is a fashionable garment.

[0014] In some embodiments, the respiratory mask is a non-medical, non-industrial respiratory mask.

[0015] In some embodiments, the respiratory mask includes: one or more straps to attach the mask body to the human face.

[0016] In some embodiments, the one or more straps comprise one or more graphical elements.

[0017] In some embodiments, the one or more straps comprise one or more advertising elements.

[0018] In some embodiments, the respiratory mask is strapless.

[0019] In some embodiments, the filter ensemble is non-protruding relative to a general contour of the mask body.

[0020] In some embodiments, the filter ensemble is generally parallel to a plane generally defined by the mask body.

[0021] In some embodiments, the filter ensemble is generally parallel to a plane generally defined by the human face.

[0022] In some embodiments, the filter ensemble comprises a visual indicator to indicate whether or not the filter is operational.

[0023] In some embodiments, the respiratory mask weighs less than 150 grams, and wherein the filter ensemble weighs less than 100 grams.

[0024] In some embodiments, the filter ensemble comprises a short-term expiring filter adapted to expire within less than three days.

[0025] In some embodiments, the filter ensemble is substantially concealed inside an inner surface of the mask body.

[0026] Some embodiments may provide other and/or additional benefits and/or advantages. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] For simplicity and clarity of illustration, elements shown in the figures have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements may be exaggerated relative to other elements for clarity of presentation. Furthermore, reference numerals may be repeated among the Figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements.

The Figures are listed below.

[0028] Figure 1 is a schematic front view illustration of a respiratory mask in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the invention;

[0029] Figure 2 is a schematic side view illustration of a respiratory mask in accordance with a demonstrative embodiment of the invention;

[0030] Figures 3-6 are schematic perspective illustrations of respiratory masks bearing a variety of patterns in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the invention;

[0031] Figures 7-9 are schematic perspective illustrations of a respiratory mask mounted to human faces, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the invention;

[0032] Figure 10 is a schematic perspective illustration of a respiratory mask mounted to a human face, together with an open helmet, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the invention;

[0033] Figure 11 is a schematic perspective illustration of a respiratory mask mounted to a human face, together with a closed helmet, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the invention;

[0034] Figure 12 is a schematic perspective illustration of a strapless respiratory mask mounted to a human face, by gripping, in accordance with a demonstrative embodiment of the invention; and

[0035] Figures 13-14 are schematic perspective illustrations of respiratory masks, gripped by a human hand, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the invention.

[0036] Figure 15 is a schematic perspective illustration of a respiratory mask disconnected from its dismountable filter ensemble, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the invention.

[0037] Figure 16 is a schematic perspective illustration of a respiratory mask having a concealed filter ensemble, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0038] In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of some embodiments of the invention. However, it will be understood by persons of ordinary skill in the art that embodiments of the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known mechanisms, components, structures and/or materials have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the discussion.

[0039] The term "region" as used herein, may include, for example, a part, a portion, an area, a component, a piece, a physical location, or the like.

[0040] Figure 1 schematically illustrates a front view of a mask 100 in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, mask 100 may be mounted to, or may be worn on, a human face. Mask 100 includes a filter ensemble 106. Mask 100 may be designed to allow filter ensemble 106 not to conspicuously protrude, relative to a general contour of mask 100, or to be generally parallel thereto. For example, filter ensemble 106 may have a generally cylindrical shape, wherein a main axis of the cylindrical shape may be generally parallel to a plane generally defined by mask lOOAccordingly, filter ensemble 106 may be generally parallel to a user's face, for example, oriented "downwards", thereby allowing a user to wear a helmet, such as a closed helmet, together with and in addition to mask 100.

[0041] In some embodiments, mask 100 may have an overall length, or an overall height, e.g., from top to bottom, of less than ten centimeters, e.g., less than 8.5 centimeters, an overall length of approximately 7.5 centimeters, or the like. In some embodiments, mask 100 may have an overall width, for example, of less than 7.5 centimeters, e.g., an overall width of approximately 6 centimeters, or approximately 6.5 centimeters, or the like. In some embodiments, mask 100 may generally cover, for example, an area of less than 150 square centimeters, less than 120 square centimeters, less than 100 square centimeters, less than 75 square centimeters, or less than 50 square centimeters.

[0042] Mask 100 includes a mask body 101, which may include multiple regions or portions adapted to cover respective portions of the human face. In some embodiments, mask body 101 may maintain an area including and surrounding a user's eyes uncovered, for example, as illustrated in the drawings, thereby allowing comfortable mounting and unobstructed eyesight to the person wearing the mask 100. Similarly, mask body 101 may maintain an area including and/or surrounding a user's forehead uncovered. In some embodiments, mask body 101 may cover the cheeks; in other embodiments, mask body 101 may maintain the cheeks uncovered. Mask body 101 may additionally include one or more built-in and/or replaceable exhalation valves 105. One or more exhalation valves 105 may be formed at multiple locations on mask body 101. Exhalation valves 105 allow exhaled air to expel from mask 100, while preventing undesired intake of external air in the opposite direction during inhalation, and may maintain substantially impenetrable enclosure of mask 100 on the human face during exhalation. [0043] Mask body 101 may be used to cover the human face or one or more portions thereof. Mask body 101 may be manufactured, for example, by casting one or more parts, by gluing together parts, by assembling or connecting connectable parts, or the like. Mask body 101 may be manufactured, or formed of, for example, silicon, plastic, polystyrene, waterproof paper, a synthetic material, a polymer, a compound material, multiple materials, a mixture material, a rigid material, a soft material, a pliable material, a flexible material, or other suitable materials allowing substantially impenetrable enclosure of mask 100 on the human face. [0044] Mask body 101 may include multiple regions, for example, a nose region 102, a mouth region 103, and/or cheek regions 104. hi some embodiments, mask body 101 may include additional regions, for example a moustache region, a chin region, or the like. In some embodiments, mask body 101 may be shaped and formed of a material allowing mask 100 to generally adapt to a contour of the human face, and to enclose substantially impenetrably thereon. In some embodiments, optionally, mask 100 and/or mask body 101 may be manufactured in various sizes, for example a "small" size to fit children, a "medium" size to fit teenagers or young adults, a "large" size to fit adults, an "extra large" size, or the like. In other embodiments, mask 100 and/or mask body 101 may be manufactured or provided as a "one size fits all" unit able to accommodate an averaged-size human face.

[0045] Mask body 101 may have, for example, a substantially oval shape, an oval shape, an elliptic shape, a general pear shape, an egg shape, a shape covering one or more parts of the human face, a shape covering the human nose and the human mouth yet uncovering the human eyes, a circular shape, a substantially circular shape, a shape including a narrow top part and a wider bottom part, a compound shape, concave or substantially concave shapes, or other suitable shapes. In some embodiments, nose region 102 may have a shape allowing space, or a housing, accommodating a human nose. [0046] In some embodiments, a frame 109 may be glued, stapled, attached to, or embedded within the margin or edge of mask body 101. Frame 109 may be formed, for example, of silicon, a plastic material, rubber, polystyrene, sponge, polymer, or the like. In some embodiments, frame 109 may be formed of a first material while other parts of mask 100 may be manufactured of a second, different, material or of other multiple materials. For example, in some embodiments, mask body 101 may be formed of a rigid material, e.g., silicon, whereas frame 109 may be formed of a soft material, e.g., rubber, to fit comfortably on the human face. Frame 109 may have a cross section width corresponding to a cross section width of mask body 101, allowing a comfortable attachment of the frame 109 to the human face. For example, frame 109 may have a cross section width of approximately 2 millimeters, approximately 3 millimeters, approximately 5 millimeters, approximately 8 millimeters, or the like, hi some embodiments, frame 109 and/or portions thereof may be removable and/or replaceable. In some embodiments, attaching mask 100 on the human face may compress or may slightly compress frame 109, thereby providing substantial sealing or impermeability of attachment of mask 100 and the human face. [0047] In some embodiments, nose region 102 may have a shape substantially similar to the general shape of a human nose, for example, to comfortably house the nose of a user. Nose region 102 may be located at a front-central area of mask body 101. In some embodiments, nose region 102 and other parts of mask body 101 may be integrally formed of one material. In other embodiments, nose region 102 may be manufactured or formed of a first material, whereas other parts of mask body 101 may be formed of a second, different material. For example, nose region 102 may be formed of a substantially rigid material, allowing, for example, a comfortable attachment of filter ensemble 106 thereto. In other embodiments, nose region 102 may be formed of multiple materials. For example, the top part of nose region 102 may be formed of a first soft, and/or pliable, and/or flexible material, e.g., polyethylene, to allow attachment of one or more nose clips 107, 117, and/or 127 thereto, thereby pressing, or attaching nose region 102 to the user's nose, for example, replacing a requirement for straps 108. The bottom part of nose region 102 may be formed of a second, e.g., more rigid or less flexible material, to allow attachment of filter ensemble 106.

[0048] Nose region 102 may include an edge 110. Edge 110 may have a circular shape, a substantially circular shape, an oval shape, a substantially oval shape, an elliptical shape, a substantially elliptical shape, or other suitable shapes. In some embodiments, edge 110 may be manufactured of a first material, whereas other portions of nose region 102 may be manufactured of a second, different, material or multiple other materials. For example, edge 110 may be manufactured of a rigid material, e.g., stainless steel or hard plastic, adapted to include an attachment-detachment mechanism 111.

[0049] Attachment-detachment mechanism 111 may allow attaching and/or detaching of filter ensemble 106 and edge 110. Attachment-detachment mechanism 111 may include, for example, a built-in screwing thread, a filter mount, a teeth mechanism, a pressure fit mechanism, a plug-in mechanism, a male-female mechanism, a pin-system mechanism, or other suitable connection mechanisms. Attachment-detachment mechanism 111 may be used to allow tight attaching and/or efficient detaching of edge 110 and filter ensemble 106. Attachment-detachment mechanism 111 may include rubber, plastic, or other suitable materials, to allow hermetic or substantially hermetic sealing.

[0050] In some embodiments, mask 100 may be implemented such that edge 110 is oriented downwards or substantially downwards or generally downwards (e.g., vertically). This may locate filter ensemble 106, when attached to mask body 101, underneath, or substantially underneath, or generally underneath, the nose region 102, and may allow the filter ensemble 106 to be generally parallel to the user's face when wearing mask 100. Accordingly, for example, the user may be able to wear a closed helmet (or other face-mounting articles or head-mounting articles) above or over mask 100.

[0051] Although filter ensemble 106 is shown in Figure 1, for demonstrative purposes, as having two main portions, in some embodiments, filter ensemble 106 may be manufactured of one main portion, while in other embodiments filter ensemble 106 may be manufactured of multiple portions (e.g., two or more portions).

[0052] In some embodiments, filter ensemble 106 may have a cylindrical shape, a substantially cylindrical shape, an oval shape, a substantially oval shape, a spherical shape, a substantially spherical shape, or other suitable shapes. In some embodiments, filter ensemble 106 may be sufficiently small to not protrude relative to the rest of mask 100, thereby allowing, for example, a person to wear a closed helmet above mask 100.

[0053] Filter ensemble 106 may include an air filter 112 or other suitable gas filter able to filter air and/or other gases. Air filter 112 may include a suitable air filtering mechanism or gas(es) filtering mechanism. For example, air filter 112 may include an active carbon filtering mechanism, a hybrid filtering mechanism, gas phase filtering mechanism, ozonation filtering mechanism, a mechanical filtering mechanism, a chemical filtering mechanism, an electromagnetic filtering mechanism, an electrostatic filtering mechanism, an active filtering mechanism, a passive filtering mechanism, a one-way filter, a two-way filter, or other suitable filtering mechanisms. Air filter 112 may filter the air entering or inhaled through inlets 115. In some embodiments, air filter 112 may be removable and/or replaceable; for example, air filter

112 may be attached to and/or detached from filter ensemble 106 using an attachment- detachment mechanism 116.

[0054] In some embodiments, filter 112 may be a short-term expiring filter, for example, adapted to expire within a time period of less than a week, e.g., within approximately three days, or approximately two days, or approximately one day, or approximately 12 hours, or the like. In other embodiments, filter 112 may expire within other time periods. This may allow manufacturing of filter 112 as a light-weight small-sized filter, in contrast with some conventional long-term heavy-weight large-sized filters.

[0055] In some embodiments, attachment-detachment mechanism 116 may include a mechanism similar to attachment-detachment mechanism 111. In some embodiments, attachment- detachment mechanism 116 may be identical or substantially identical or similar or partially similar to attachment-detachment mechanism 111. In other embodiments, attachment- detachment mechanism 116 may include other suitable attachment-detachment mechanisms. [0056] In some embodiments, filter ensemble 106 may include one or more compartments 113. Compartment 113 may be or may include, for example, a space, a cavity, a chamber, a depression, a slit, a box, a niche, a recess, or the like. Compartment 113 may include an opening, an access to, a sliding surface or other opening and/or closing mechanisms, to allow access to the internal portion of compartment 113. This allows, for example, a person to access compartment

113 and store inside the compartment a fragrant substance 114, for example, a Bach flower extract, a mint extract, homeopathic herbs, smelling salts, an herbal extract, a fragrant capsule, a fragrant lotion, fragrant drops, herbs, a eucalyptus extract, aromatherapy herbs, or other suitable substances or odor-emitting substances or aroma-emitting substances. In some embodiments, a combination or mixture of substances or multiple substances may be used. The fragrance of substance 114 may interact with the filtered inhaled air, allowing a person wearing mask 100 to inhale filtered and fragrant air, for example, to inhale clean and friendly-smelling clean air instead of polluted and offensive-smelling air.

[0057] Although compartment 113 is shown in figure 1, for demonstrative purposes, as located in the front portion of filter ensemble 106, in some embodiments one or more compartments 113 may be located, for example, in the upper, or lower, portion of filter ensemble 106, or in other suitable locations of mask body 101.

[0058] In some embodiments, for example, in embodiments in which filter 112 and/or filter ensemble 116 are replaceable, a set, or a cartridge, or a magazine, of filters may be manufactured and supplied, in addition to mask 100, or as a separate unit, hi some embodiments, a magazine of filters may include, for example, five filters, corresponding, for example, to five working days in a week, or seven filters, corresponding, for example, to seven days of a week, or thirty filters, corresponding, for example, to thirty days of the month, or the like. In other embodiments, another number of filters may be included in a magazine. Similarly, in some embodiments, magazines including fragrant substances, or capsules, or the like, may be manufactured, supplied separately or integrally with the magazines of filters. For example, the magazines of fragrant substances may include multiple substances having a uniform or common fragrance, or multiple substances having multiple (namely, different) fragrances.

[0059] In some embodiments, the fragrance, or the fragrant substance, may be included as an integral portion of filter 112, or of filter ensemble 116. For example, filter 112 or filter ensemble 116 may include a built-in fragrance, or a built-in fragrant substance, or a built-in fragrant component or portion; and thus, filter ensemble 116 may not necessarily include the compartment 113.

[0060] In some embodiments, filter 112 may include an expiration indicator 120 to indicate whether or not a filtering mechanism of filter 112 has expired or is non-operational or defective; or other suitable validity indicator, fullness indicator, an indicator utilizing a coloring scheme, to indicate a property of the filter 112, or the like.

[0061] One or more nose clips 107, 117, and/or 127 may be detachably attached to nose region 102. These clips may be manufactured of metal, silicon, plastic, foam, a synthetic material, a polymer, a compound material, a rigid material, a soft material, a pliable mater, a flexible material, a rigid-flexible material, a compressible material or other suitable materials. Nose clips 107, 117 and/or 127 may attach nose region 102, and thereby mask 100 as a whole, to a person's face, allowing tight or hermetic enclosure of mask 100 on a person's face. [0062] Nose clip 107 may have the substantial shape of half a ring or may be U shaped, and may be, for example, approximately 2 millimeters, or approximately 3 millimeters, or approximately 5 millimeters, or approximately 8 millimeters wide, or the like. Nose clip 107 may be attached to nose region 102 with pressure, a male-female mechanism, a plug-in mechanism, a clip-on mechanism, or the like. This may allow, for example, pressing and/or attaching mask 100 to a person's nose. The nose clips 107, 117, and/or 127 may be used in addition to, or instead of, one or more straps 108.

[0063] In some embodiments, nose clip 117 may be similar, or partially similar or substantially similar, to nose clip 107. Nose clip 117 may additionally include a protruding portion, for example a knob, a ring, half a ring, a U shaped portion, a hollow portion, a solid portion, or the like. The protruding portion may allow a grip with a person's hand or finger or fingers on the nose clip 117 and thereby on mask 100 as a whole. This may allow, for example, gripping mask 100 with a person's hand or finger or two fingers, as well as rapid attachment or detachment of mask 100 to or from a person's face, for example, when walking on a street or riding a motorcycle.

[0064] In some embodiments, nose clip 127 may be attached to nose region 102 with one or more of the above-mentioned mechanisms or with other mechanisms. Nose clip 127 may further include a hook, a pin, a set of pins, a screwing mechanism, a male-female mechanism, a plug-in mechanism, or the like, for example, on the outer or external side. A closed helmet may include a matching or a corresponding mechanism, thereby allowing nose clip 127 and the mask 100 attached, as well as the closed helmet, to be connected, attached, clipped, screwed together, immobilized, or otherwise held together or in place.

[0065] In some embodiments, strap 108 or multiple straps 108 may be included in mask 100. One or more straps 108 may be attached to mask body 101, frame 109 and/or other parts of mask 100, for example, with glue, using a clip-on mechanism, with staples, using connecting rings, using a connecting device, using attachment-detachment mechanisms, or the like. In some embodiments, one or more straps 108 may be manufactured of cotton, rubber, caoutchouc, gummy, a stretchable material, an elastic material, a plastic material, a flexible material, a band or bands, or other suitable material. In other embodiments, one or more straps 108 may be manufactured of multiple materials. In some embodiments, one or more straps 108 may be adjustable in length, for example, using a stretching mechanism, buttons, lengthening mechanism, shortening mechanism, and/or any other strap-length adjusting mechanisms. Some embodiments may optionally include an attaching mechanism of two or more straps 108 together.

[0066] In some embodiments, straps 108 may include an attachment-detachment mechanism, to allow detachably attaching of one or more straps 108 directly to a motorcycle helmet, an open helmet, a closed helmet, a partially open helmet, a bicycle helmet, or the like. The attaching- detaching may be performed using a Velcro, glue, a protrusions system, a projection system, or other suitable systems or materials.

[0067] In some embodiments, one or more straps 108 may include an attaching-detaching mechanism, allowing, for example, detaching straps 108 from mask body 101 and/or from other straps 108, thereby releasing or lightening the grip of mask 100 on the human head. Some embodiments may include a mechanism detaching two or more straps 108 together from mask body 101.

[0068] In some embodiments, one or more straps 108 may have a width, for example, of approximately 2 millimeters, approximately 3 millimeters, approximately 5 millimeters, approximately 8 millimeters, approximately 11 millimeters, or the like. In other embodiments one or more straps 108 may be wider, for example, have a width of approximately 12 millimeters, approximately 14 millimeters, approximately 16 millimeters, approximately 17 millimeters, approximately 20 millimeters, or the like. In some embodiments, multiple straps 108 may have multiple, different, widths.

[0069] In some embodiments, one or more straps 108 may surround the human head when wearing mask 100, and the strap or straps 108 may pass above the ears. In some embodiments, one or more straps 108 may pass on the ears. In other embodiments, one or more straps 108 may pass above the ears while other strap or straps 108 may pass below the ears. One or more straps 108 may keep mask 100 immobile relative to the human head and/or attach mask 100 to a person's head. Straps 108 may allow, for example, maintaining a tight and/or hermetic enclosure of mask 100 on a person's face, and may allow, for example, inhaling air substantially exclusively through the filter ensemble 106. [0070] In some embodiments, mask 100 may include one or more exhalation valves 105. One or more exhalation valves 105 may be included as replaceable unit or units which may be screwed, jointed, fit with pressure, manufactured with replaceable cartridges, attached with a attachment- detachment mechanism to mask body 101, or the like.

[0071] Exhalation valves 105 may include, for example, magnetic-based valves, annular type valves, poppet type valves, mushroom type valves, flap type valves, or the like. Exhalation valves 105 may allow, for example, exhaled air to egress mask 100, substantially without allowing air inhaling, and without damaging the tight enclosure of mask 100 on a person's face. For example, a pair of exhalation valves 105 may be placed in a portion of filter ensemble 106, above air filter 111, to allow nasal-exhaled air a short path to egress mask 100. hi some embodiments, for example, a pair or more exhalation valves 105 may be placed in nose region 102 and/or in its proximity, and/or in mouth region 103 and/or in its proximity, allowing, for example, mouth exhaled air and/or nasal exhaled air a short path to egress mask 100. [0072] In some embodiments, exhalation valves 105 may be built in mask body 101, namely, manufactured of a material, or multiple materials, generally similar to materials that mask body 101 is manufactured of. For example, built in exhalation valves 105 may be manufactured of two materials: a first, soft or flexible material, e.g., a first silicon, and a second, more rigid material, e.g., a second silicon. Exhalation valves 105 may be manufactured, for example, of alternating stripes of the first and the second silicon. Stripes of the second, more rigid or less flexible, silicon may be generally immobile, relative to mask body 101, whereas stripes of the first, soft silicon, may be flexible, to allow exhaled air an egress out of mask body 101, whereas when inhaling, the stripes of the soft silicon may seal entrance to inhaled air.

[0073] In some embodiments, mask 100 may include a fashionable design, ornamental elements, graphical elements, textual elements, a combination thereof, or the like. For example, mask 100 may be designed to be colorful, and/or to include drawings or paintings on multiple portions thereof. In some embodiments, the fashionable design of mask 100 may apply a garment appearance to mask 100, thereby allowing a person, wearing or attaching mask 100, to relate to, or to identify with, mask 100. For example, a person may be allowed to relate to mask 100 in a similar fashion a person relates to a garment, a personal item, a watch, or the like, hi some embodiments, the fashionable design of mask 100 may apply a non-industrial and/or a nonmedical appearance to mask 100, thereby causing the mask 100 to be, for example, more user friendly, or less embarrassing to wear. Therefore, a person wearing a fashionable mask 100 may not be regarded as, or considered to be, a sick or disabled person, or may not be stigmatized by wearing the fashionable mask 100.

[0074] In some embodiments, mask 100 may weigh, for example, less than 200 grams, less than 180 grams, less than 150 grams, less than 100 grams, or the like. For example, mask 100 may weigh approximately 200 grams, approximately 170 grams, approximately 150 grams, approximately 100 grams, or the like. In some embodiments, filter 112 may be a short-term expiring filter, and may weigh, for example, less than 100 grams, less than 80 grams, les than 50 grams, approximately 50 grams, or the like.

[0075] Figure 2 schematically illustrates a side view of respiratory mask 100, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the invention.

[0076] Figure 3 schematically illustrates a respiratory mask 300, including a mask body 304, in accordance with a demonstrative embodiment of the invention. Mask body 304 may include a drawing, a painting, a design, a coloring, a pattern, or the like. For example, a zebra pattern design is applied on mask body 304, in the demonstrative embodiment shown in figure 3. [0077] Respiratory mask 300 may include a strap 301 and a strap 305. Strap 305 may be a narrow strap, and may be, for example, approximately 2 millimeters, approximately 3 millimeters, approximately 5 millimeters wide, or the like. In some embodiments, strap 301 may be wider than strap 305 and may be, for example, approximately 7 millimeters, approximately 9 millimeters, approximately 12 millimeters, approximately 15 millimeters wide, or the like. Strap 301 may include two sides, an inner side 302 and an outer side 303. Outer side 303 and inner side 302 may optionally include a written and/or designed and/or a drawn element, or the like; for example: a publicity, an advertisement, a slogan, a title, a logo, and/or similar textual elements and/or graphical elements.

[0078] Figure 4 schematically illustrates a respiratory mask 400, including a mask body 404, in accordance with a demonstrative embodiment of the invention. Mask body 404 may include a drawing, a painting, a design, a coloring, a pattern, or the like. For example, a tiger pattern design is applied on an outer surface of mask body 404, in the demonstrative embodiment shown in Figure 4.

[0079] Respiratory mask 400 may include a strap 401 and a strap 405. Strap 405 may be a narrow strap, and may be, for example, approximately 2 millimeters, approximately 3 millimeters, approximately 5 millimeters wide, or the like. In some embodiments, strap 401 may be wider than strap 405 and may be, for example, approximately 7 millimeters, approximately 9 millimeters, approximately 12 millimeters, approximately 15 millimeters wide, or the like. Strap 401 may include two sides, an inner side 402 and an outer side 403. Outer side 403 and inner side 402 may optionally include a written and/or a designed and/or a drawn element, or the like; for example: a publicity, an advertisement, a slogan, a title, a logo, and/or similar textual elements and/or graphical elements.

[0080] Figure 5 schematically illustrates a respiratory mask 500, including a mask body 504 and a filter device 506, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the invention. Mask body 504 and filter device 506 may include a drawing, a painting, a design, a coloring, a pattern, or the like. For example, a coloring in a first color is applied to an outer surface of mask body 504, whereas a coloring in a second, different, color is applied to filter device 506 in the demonstrative embodiment shown in Figure 5.

[0081] Respiratory mask 500 may include a strap 501 and a strap 505. Strap 505 may be a narrow strap, and may be approximately 2 millimeters, approximately 3 millimeters, approximately 5 millimeters wide, or the like. In some embodiments, strap 501 may be wider than strap 505 and may be approximately 7 millimeters, approximately 9 millimeters, approximately 12 millimeters approximately 15 millimeters wide, or the like. Strap 501 may include two sides, an inner side 502 and an outer side 503. Outer side 503 and inner side 502 may optionally include a written and/or designed and/or a drawn element, or the like; for example: a publicity, an advertisement, a slogan, a title, a logo, and/or similar textual elements and/or graphical elements.

[0082] Figure 6 schematically illustrates a respiratory mask 600, including a mask body 604, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the invention. Mask body 604 may include a drawing, a painting, a design, a coloring, a pattern, or the like. For example, a flower pattern design is applied on an outer surface of mask body 604, in the demonstrative embodiment shown in Figure 6.

[0083] Respiratory mask 600 may include a strap 601 and a strap 605. Strap 605 may be a narrow strap, and may be, for example, approximately 2 millimeters, approximately 3 millimeters, approximately 5 millimeters wide, or the like. In some embodiments, strap 601 may be wider than strap 605 and may be, for example, approximately 7 millimeters, approximately 9 millimeters, approximately 12 millimeters, approximately 15 millimeters wide, or the like. Strap 601 may include two sides, an inner side 602 and an outer side 603. Outer side 603 and inner side 602 may optionally include a written and/or a designed and/or a drawn element, or the like; for example: a publicity, an advertisement, a slogan, a title, a logo, and/or similar textual elements and/or graphical elements.

[0084] Although certain designs and patterns are shown, for demonstrative purposes, in Figures 3-6, some embodiments may include other designs, patterns, colorings, paintings and/or other textual elements and/or graphical elements.

[0085] Figure 7 schematically illustrates a respiratory mask 700, attached to a person's face, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the invention. Mask 700 may include a strap 701. In some embodiments, strap 701 may pass above the ears, attaching mask 700 to a person's face. Strap 701 may be, for example, approximately 2 millimeters, approximately 3 millimeters, approximately 5 millimeters, approximately 6 millimeters wide, or the like. [0086] Figure 8 schematically illustrates a respiratory mask 800, attached to a person's face, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the invention. Mask 800 may include a strap 801. In some embodiments, strap 801 may pass below the ears, attaching mask 800 to a person's face. Strap 801 may be, for example, approximately 3 millimeters, approximately 7 millimeters, approximately 8 millimeters, approximately 10.5 millimeters wide, or the like. [0087] Figure 9 schematically illustrates a respiratory mask 900, attached to a person's face, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the invention. Mask 900 may include a strap 901. In some embodiments, strap 901 may pass below the ears, attaching mask 900 to a person's face. Strap 901 may be, for example, approximately 2 millimeters, approximately 3.5 millimeters, approximately 4.5 millimeters, approximately 6 millimeters wide, or the like. [0088] Some embodiments may include one or more types of straps, clips, or other sub-units. [0089] Figure 10 schematically illustrates a respiratory mask 1000 including a strap 1003, attaching mask 1000 to a person's face. Additionally, an open helmet 1001 is worn on top of mask 1000, using helmet-strap 1002. Strap 1003 passes below the ears. Mask 1000 additionally includes a nose clip 1004, attaching mask 1000 to a person's face, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. A filter ensemble 1005 is further shown, for demonstrative purposes. [0090] Figure 11 schematically illustrates a respiratory mask 1100 including a nose clip 1102, attaching mask 1100 to a person's face. A closed helmet 1101 is worn on top of mask 1100. [0091] Figure 12 schematically illustrates a respiratory mask 1200, operably attached to a person's face, the person gripping the respiratory mask using one or more fingers inserted through a nose clip, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the invention. [0092] For example, an urban pedestrian may be exposed to traffic pollution, smoke, or the like. The pedestrian may inhale a significant amount of poisonous air when a vehicle passes in his vicinity. Therefore, upon nearing of the vehicle, the pedestrian may rapidly and comfortably attach mask 1200 to his face temporarily, grappling mask 1200 by inserting one or more fingers inside nose clip 1201, and pressing the mask 1200 onto the nose area of his face. The pedestrian may maintain mask 1200 attached to his face for a short period, for example, approximately 10 seconds, or approximately 13 seconds, and remove the mask 1200 rapidly and comfortably, upon distancing of the vehicle.

[0093] Figure 13 schematically illustrates a respiratory mask 1300, grappled by insertion of a finger inside a nose clip, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the invention. [0094] For example, when a person is to attach mask 1300 to his face, the person may insert one or more fingers inside a nose clip 1301, and may thereby attach mask 1300 comfortably and rapidly to his face. For example, a person may avoid long term of wearing the mask 1300 on his face using straps or other permanent mechanism, and thereby the person may efficiently attach the mask to his face substantially instantaneously.

[0095] Figure 14 schematically illustrates a respiratory mask 1400, grappled by insertion of a finger inside a nose clip, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the invention. For demonstrative purposes, mask 1440 is shown as a transparent object, to allow the person's fingers to be fully visible.

[0096] In some embodiments, a person may attach mask 1400 to his face, by inserting one or more fingers inside a nose clip 1401. Additionally, a person may be allowed to grip multiple portions of mask 1400 with his fingers, including fingers not inserted inside nose clip 1401. [0097] Figure 15 schematically illustrates a respiratory mask 1500 disconnected from its dismountable filter ensemble, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, mask 1500 may include an attachably-detached filter or filter ensemble, dismountable from a body 1501 of mask 1500, e.g., from a nose portion 1502 of mask 1500, using, for example, an attachment-detachment mechanism 1511. In some embodiments, e.g., as described with reference to mask 100 of Figure 1, a filter or filter ensemble may be replaced, removed, or detached from mask 1500, for example, to replace an expired or defective filter with a new or operable filter.

[0098] Figure 16 schematically illustrates a respiratory mask 1600 having a concealed filter ensemble, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, mask 1600 may include a filter ensemble 1602, e.g., able to perform similar or substantially identical functionalities of filter ensemble 106 (Figure 1). In some embodiments, filter ensemble 1602 may be attached to, or adjacent to, or may be located behind or beneath or within, an inner surface of a nose region 1605, or an inner surface of a mask body 1604 of mask 1600. In some embodiments, the location of filter ensemble 1602 may protect the filter ensemble 1602, or may render filter ensemble 1602 more durable, or more resistant to wearing or ablation or wetness, which may occur due to weather conditions and/or environmental conditions and/or aging and/or extended usage of mask 1600. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, filter ensemble 1602 may be concealed or hidden from the human sight. Thereby, for example, mask 1600 may appear fashionable or more fashionable. For example, mask 1600 may appear a filter-less mask, or a non-industrial non-medical mask.

[0099] Functions, operations, components and/or features described herein with reference to one or more embodiments, may be combined with, or may be utilized in combination with, one or more other functions, operations, components and/or features described herein with reference to one or more other embodiments, or vice versa.

[00100] While certain features of some embodiments of the invention have been illustrated and described herein, many modifications, substitutions, changes, and equivalents may occur to those skilled in the art. It is, therefore, to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A respiratory mask comprising: a mask body comprising a nose region to cover at least a nose area of a human face, and a mouth region to cover at least a mouth area of the human face, wherein the mask body comprises one-way exhalation valves embedded therein, to expel air exhaled by the human, and wherein the mask body comprises a frame that is attachable to the human face; and a filter ensemble assembled to the mask body, to filter air inhaled by the human, wherein a main axis of the filter ensemble is generally parallel to a plane defined by the face of the human.

2. The respiratory mask of claim 1, wherein the mask body maintains an eyes area of the human face uncovered.

3. The respiratory mask of claim 1, wherein the filter ensemble comprises a compartment to store a fragrant-emitting substance.

4. The respiratory mask of claim 1 , comprising: a nose clip made of a compressible material to detachably-attach the respiratory mask to a human nose, wherein the nose clip comprises a U shaped portion.

5. The respiratory mask of claim 4, wherein the nose clip comprises a ring-shaped gripping portion to accommodate therethrough one or more fingers of the human.

6. The respiratory mask of claim 5, wherein the nose clip comprises an attachment/detachment mechanism to detachably-attach the respiratory mask to a closed helmet.

7. The respiratory mask of claim 1, wherein the filter ensemble comprises a replaceable filter connected to a filter housing.

8. The respiratory mask of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of an outer surface of the mask body comprises one or more graphical elements.

9. The respiratory mask of claim 8, wherein the respiratory mask is a fashionable garment

10. The respiratory mask of claim 1, wherein the respiratory mask is a non-medical, non- industrial respiratory mask.

11. The respiratory mask of claim 1 , comprising: one or more straps to attach the mask body to the human face.

12. The respiratory mask of claim 11, wherein the one or more straps comprise one or more graphical elements.

13. The respiratory mask of claim 11, wherein the one or more straps comprise one or more advertising elements.

14. The respiratory mask of claim 1 , wherein the respiratory mask is strapless.

15. The respiratory mask of claim I₅ wherein the filter ensemble is non-protruding relative to a general contour of the mask body.

16. The respiratory mask of claim 1, wherein the filter ensemble is generally parallel to a plane generally defined by the mask body.

17. The respiratory mask of claim 1, wherein the filter ensemble is generally parallel to a plane generally defined by the human face.

18. The respiratory mask of claim 7, wherein the filter ensemble comprises a visual indicator to indicate whether or not the filter is operational.

19. The respiratory mask of claim 1, wherein the respiratory mask weighs less than 150 grams, and wherein the filter ensemble weighs less than 100 grams.

20. The respiratory mask of claim I₅ wherein the filter ensemble comprises a short-term expiring filter adapted to expire within less than three days.

21. The respiratory mask of claim I₅ wherein the filter ensemble is substantially concealed inside an inner surface of the mask body.