EP3332841B1 - A sports mask system - Google Patents
A sports mask system Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP3332841B1 EP3332841B1 EP17205763.0A EP17205763A EP3332841B1 EP 3332841 B1 EP3332841 B1 EP 3332841B1 EP 17205763 A EP17205763 A EP 17205763A EP 3332841 B1 EP3332841 B1 EP 3332841B1
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- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- unit
- valve
- assembly
- cutout
- grill
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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Links
- QVGXLLKOCUKJST-UHFFFAOYSA-N atomic oxygen Chemical compound [O] QVGXLLKOCUKJST-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 17
- 229910052760 oxygen Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 17
- 239000001301 oxygen Substances 0.000 claims description 17
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 claims description 9
- 230000003247 decreasing effect Effects 0.000 claims description 2
- 238000012544 monitoring process Methods 0.000 claims description 2
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 30
- 230000029058 respiratory gaseous exchange Effects 0.000 description 13
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 12
- 238000012549 training Methods 0.000 description 10
- 239000008280 blood Substances 0.000 description 8
- 210000004369 blood Anatomy 0.000 description 8
- 239000006260 foam Substances 0.000 description 7
- 210000003019 respiratory muscle Anatomy 0.000 description 7
- 239000000835 fiber Substances 0.000 description 6
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 6
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 6
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 6
- CURLTUGMZLYLDI-UHFFFAOYSA-N Carbon dioxide Chemical compound O=C=O CURLTUGMZLYLDI-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 4
- 239000004744 fabric Substances 0.000 description 4
- 239000005060 rubber Substances 0.000 description 4
- 210000003205 muscle Anatomy 0.000 description 3
- 208000006673 asthma Diseases 0.000 description 2
- 229910002092 carbon dioxide Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 239000001569 carbon dioxide Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000001914 filtration Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000002452 interceptive effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 210000004072 lung Anatomy 0.000 description 2
- 230000002685 pulmonary effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 210000003813 thumb Anatomy 0.000 description 2
- 208000000059 Dyspnea Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 206010013975 Dyspnoeas Diseases 0.000 description 1
- PEDCQBHIVMGVHV-UHFFFAOYSA-N Glycerine Chemical compound OCC(O)CO PEDCQBHIVMGVHV-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 210000004556 brain Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 238000004590 computer program Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000470 constituent Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000001276 controlling effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000002596 correlated effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000007423 decrease Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000013461 design Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005516 engineering process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000035876 healing Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000006872 improvement Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000003434 inspiratory effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000037081 physical activity Effects 0.000 description 1
- 210000001034 respiratory center Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 230000001225 therapeutic effect Effects 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B23/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body
- A63B23/18—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for improving respiratory function
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
- A63B21/008—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices using hydraulic or pneumatic force-resisters
- A63B21/0085—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices using hydraulic or pneumatic force-resisters using pneumatic force-resisters
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B24/00—Electric or electronic controls for exercising apparatus of preceding groups; Controlling or monitoring of exercises, sportive games, training or athletic performances
- A63B24/0087—Electric or electronic controls for exercising apparatus of groups A63B21/00 - A63B23/00, e.g. controlling load
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2225/00—Miscellaneous features of sport apparatus, devices or equipment
- A63B2225/50—Wireless data transmission, e.g. by radio transmitters or telemetry
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2230/00—Measuring physiological parameters of the user
- A63B2230/40—Measuring physiological parameters of the user respiratory characteristics
- A63B2230/405—Measuring physiological parameters of the user respiratory characteristics used as a control parameter for the apparatus
Definitions
- the present disclosure relates to sports mask and more particularly the disclosure relates to a sports mask for adjusting inhalation resistance settings to a user.
- resistance settings of the sports mask can be varied based on the level of exertion of the user or blood oxygen saturation level of the user. Restricting air intake during physical exercise can provide the respiratory muscles with an extra load, which in turn works the pulmonary muscles more intensely to strengthen them. Persons with breathing difficulties including asthma, athletes and healthy persons can improve respiratory muscle strength by breathing against resistance.
- Respiratory muscle training is an essential training for athletes wishing to compete at a high level Respiratory muscle training helps athletes to prepare and get ready for high exertion programs. Restricting air intake during physical exercise can provide the respiratory muscles with an extra load, which in turn works the pulmonary muscles more intensely to strengthen them. Another function of the mask is to pool carbon dioxide during breathing, part of which is inhaled into the lungs to condition the respiratory center in the brain to a higher tolerance of carbon dioxide. This in turn reduces breathlessness during physical activity. Persons with breathing difficulties including asthma, athletes and healthy persons can improve respiratory muscle strength by breathing against resistance.
- the treatment is achievable with the aid of masks which have been designed particularly for this function and which include a check valve that allows air to be inhaled with resistance whereas, little or no resistance is provided while the air is being exhaled.
- masks include mask disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,554,746, to McConnell et al discloses an inspiratory muscle training device including an opening for the passage of air to be both inhaled and exhaled and an inlet permitting air to be inhaled to enter the chamber and to pass through the opening. There is provided an adjustable valve to vary the resistance to inhaling.
- U.S. Pat. No. 4,973,047, to Norell discloses a therapeutic device for lung exercise which requires a mouthpiece, and has a rotatably adjustable air intake valve.
- CN105797318 discloses a resistive breathing device, comprising a mask.
- the mask is provided with a perimeter and a central hole which passes through the mask and extends.
- the mask is suitable to cover an oral area and a nasal part of a user, so that the perimeter and the face of the user form gas-tight seal.
- An outer layer covers the mask and comprises a pair of bands used to fix the mask on the face of the user.
- a plugboard is arranged in the central hole of the mask and is provided with an inlet hole extending through the mask.
- a central insert covers the plugboard, and is provided with an air inlet hole extending through the central insert, and the central insert can move between a first position and a second position. On the first position, the first part of the air inlet hole is overlapped with the air inlet hole of the plugboard. On the second position, the larger second part of the air inlet hole is overlapped with the air inlet hole of the plugboard.
- WO2014059389 discloses a software operated method/system for both breathing training and respiratory muscle training in which a user inhales and exhales via a mouthpiece through a hand-held breathing chamber so that pressure, time and direction of air breathed through the chamber is automatically measured. The breathing results are automatically processed and displaying on a remote screen as a real-time interactive graphic representing such air pressure, time and direction. The users base- line is established and a menu of training choices including interactive games is displayed.
- the prior art provide separate passages for inhaling and exhaling, which may be worn by a user, in intensely vigorous exercise, without impeding the nature of the exercise conducted. Also, since the masks have manually adjustable valves and, since there is no way that the breathing restrictions could be correlated with the breathing restrictions, hence the breathing training cannot reach an optimum level.
- the present invention comprises a breathing exercise apparatus having the features recited in claim 1.
- FIG.1 a line diagram that depicts a sports mask 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
- the sports mask includes a head assembly 102 that helps in keeping the sports mask 100 fixed to head of a user.
- the head assembly 102 is linked to a face assembly 104. Details of head assembly 102 and face assembly 104 will be discussed in detail in subsequent figures.
- the sports mask 100 may include a connecting button (not shown) to initiate a connection with a wearable device. Details of the embodiment will be described later.
- FIG. 2 that depicts a head assembly 102 and its various constituent parts.
- the head assembly as described keeps the sports mask fixed to the head of the user.
- the head assembly 102 is made up of durable, and stretchable fabric material. However, there can be other materials as well that may be utilized like fiber, plastic etc.
- Head assembly 102 includes a left strip 102a and a right strip 102b.
- Each of the strips 1020a and 1020b further includes a locking clip 1022a and 1022b joined to the strips 1020a and 1020b by joining patches 1024a, and 1024b.
- the clips 1022a and 1022b may be made up of metal, plastic, fiber, etc.
- the clips 1022a, and 1022b are utilized to receive the face assembly 104 and place it firmly on mouth and nose of the user. Details of the face assembly 104 will be discussed in detail.
- FIG. 3 depicts a face assembly 104 of the sports mask 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
- Face assembly 104 is placed on the mouth and nose region of the user while being used.
- Face assembly 104 includes various components that will now be discussed in detail.
- the face mask unit 1043 is placed within the face assembly 104 to enable inhalation and exhalation of air by the user.
- the face mask unit further contains an outer unit 1046, a middle unit 1044, and an innermost unit 1042. Details of all will be described later.
- the face assembly 104 further includes a grill cover 10410.
- Grill cover 10410 is provided to keep safe and receive a grill 10412.
- Grill cover 10410 may be made up of plastic, or fiber or any other strong material.
- the grill cover as disclosed above receives the grill 10412. Details of the grill 10412 will be received later.
- the grill cover 10410 with the affixed 10412 is attached to the outer unit 1046 of the face mask unit 1043.
- the attachment is done through attachment straps 1048a and 1048b.
- the attachment straps can be either glued or sewn to the outer unit 1046. However, there can be other means of attaching the grill cover to the outer unit 1046.
- the face assembly 104 further contains an air flow module 1040.
- the air flow valve assembly 1040 can be fixed to the innermost unit 1042 of the face mask unit 1043 and is finally in communication with the grill 10412 when all the parts are connected to each other. Further details of the module will be explained later.
- FIG. 4A and 4B depict inner view and side view respectively of the outer unit 1046 of the face mask unit 1043.
- the outer unit 1046 includes a left strap 10464a and a right strap 10434b that are received by the left clip 1022a and 1022b of the head assembly. This arrangement then places this face mask unit 1043 firmly on the head of the user.
- the outer unit 1046 also includes a cavity 10462 that is present to place and connect the grill 10412 to the air flow valve assembly 1040.
- the straps 10464a and 10464b may have Velcro fastener at their ends to tighten or loosen and adjust the placement of the face assembly 104.
- the straps 10464a and 10464b can be flexible and can be permanently fixed to the clips 1022a and 1022b.
- the straps 10464a and 10464b can be fixed to main body 10466 of the mask.
- the main body 10466 can be made up of, however not limiting the scope of the invention, high grade plastic, fiber, foam, etc.
- the main body 10444 of the middle unit 1044 can be made up of any of a plastic, a fabric, a foam, etc.
- the middle unit 1044 includes a cavity 10442 that is configured to receive and connect the grill 10412 and the air flow valve assembly 1040.
- the innermost unit 1042 includes a cavity 10422 for helping the air flow valve assembly 1040 to connect with the grill 10412.
- the main body 10421 of the innermost unit 1042 is made up of any of a plastic, a foam, and a fabric.
- FIG. 7 illustrates exploded view of an airflow valve assembly 1040, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
- the airflow valve assembly 1040 includes an airflow vent 10420. This is the innermost unit of the airflow valve assembly 1040.
- the airflow vent 10420 is in direct communication with nose and mouth of the user.
- the airflow vent 10420 receives an airflow valve 10422 that is fixed on the airflow vent 10420 using a valve catcher 10424.
- the airflow valve catcher 10424 fixes the airflow valve 10422 on to the airflow vent 10420.
- the airflow valve assembly 1040 further includes a slider unit 10426.
- the slider unit 10426 is connected to the valve catcher 10424 on which the slider unit 10426 may be able to slide.
- the sliding mechanism can be either manual or automatic.
- the slider unit 10426 can also be further connected to a motor (not shown in figure) that may help it to slide left or right for opening or closing of the airflow vent 10420. The opening and closing increases or decreases flow of air for the user performing or undergoing training exercise.
- slider unit 10426 includes a sliding button 104262 for manually sliding the slider unit 104262. Also, there may be present a sliding notch 104264 that helps in sliding movement. However, in other embodiments the slider unit 104262 can be connected to a small motor (not shown in figure) to facilitate the sliding movement.
- the slider unit 104262 may be made up of rubber, plastic, or metal.
- FIG. 9 illustrating an airflow vent 10420 that helps in inflow and outflow of air to the user.
- the airflow vent 10420 includes air holes 104202 in hexagonal form. However, there may be different form factor of holes that may be utilized for the same purpose.
- the airflow vent 10420 also, includes a valve catcher notch 104204 that receives the valve catcher 10424. It is to be noted that the airflow vent 10420 can have any other different configuration.
- the present configuration (vertical configuration) of half body of the airflow vent 10420 having air holes 104202 and half body being opaque has been shown for exemplary purposes. In other embodiments, the configuration ca be changed to a horizontal configuration.
- FIG. 10 illustrates the valve catcher 10424 that includes a catching notch 104242 to fix the valve 10422 on to the airflow vent 10420.
- the material of the valve catcher can be anyone of a metal, plastic, or fiber, etc.
- FIG. 11 illustrating the valve 10422 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
- the material of the valve can be a plastic, a rubber, or a foam. It is to be understood that the shape of the valve can be varied as per the design preferences. Here however, for the purposes of example, the shape has been chosen as to be circular.
- the valve 10422 includes a notch 104222 that receives the catching notch 104242 to fix the valve on to the airflow vent 10420.
- FIG. 12 illustrating the grill cover 10410.
- the grill cover 10410 can be made up of anyone of a metal, plastic, fiber, foam or a hardened cloth.
- Grill cover 10410 includes an opening 104102 that facilitates in communication of the airflow assembly 1040 with the grill 10412 as depicted in FIG. 13A and 13B.
- FIG. 13A and 13B illustrate front view and side view respectively of the grill 10412.
- Grill 10412 includes a side frame 104122.
- the side frame 104122 can be made up of any one of a metal, a plastic, a rubber, or foam, etc.
- the grill 10412 includes a base frame 104126 (shown in FIG. 13B ).
- the base frame is again made up of anyone of a metal, a plastic, a rubber, or foam, etc.
- There are also present additional fins 104124a-104124d which help in filtering of the air.
- the vital parameter collection device 105 is a pulse oximeter.
- Pulse oximeter is a medical device that indirectly monitors the oxygen saturation of a patient's blood (as opposed to measuring oxygen saturation directly through a blood sample) and changes in blood volume in the skin, producing a photoplethysmogram.
- the pulse oximeter 105 is in direct communication with a microcontroller (not shown in figure) embedded within the face assembly 104.
- the microcontroller includes stored instructions for various levels blood oxygen saturation readings.
- the microcontroller may control the sliding of the slider unit 10426 by controlling the motor (not shown in figure) to slide. Based on pre-fed instructions, if the blood oxygen level falls below a threshold level, the microcontroller may open the slider unit 10426 to allow more air intake and vice versa.
- the sports mask may be connected to a wearable device through a network.
- the wearable device could be a smart watch.
- the network for communication could be any short range wireless connection like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, etc.
- the sliding function of the slider unit 10426 may also be controlled by the wearable device or smart watch by user's interference or the control can be automatic based on the pre-fed instructions. Based on pre-fed instructions, if the blood oxygen level falls below a threshold level, the microcontroller may open the slider unit 10426 to allow more air intake and vice versa.
- the sports mask 100 may include a button (not shown in figure) to initiate a connection request to the wearable device 200.
- the connection can be through any of the small range wireless connections including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, ZigBee, Near Field Communication (NFC), etc.
- the connection once successful, initiates an application launch that may present an interface as shown in the figure. There may be present various icons on the application interface.
- FIG. 16A-16C illustrates the multiple positioning of the slider unit 10426 on the airflow vent 10420.
- FIG. 16A displays low oxygen intake level. At this level, there is very minimal intake of air and thus Oxygen.
- FIG. 16B illustrates medium oxygen intake level. At this position, the intake of Oxygen is at a medium level.
- FIG. 16C illustrates high intake level that is the highest possible opening of the airflow vent 10420. At this level, the slider unit 10426 is at the extreme right position.
- POSITA can generate various other intermediate levels. The levels described above are exemplary and can be modified. It is to be noted that the air inflow restriction control does not interfere too much with air outflow control.
- each block in the flowchart or block diagrams may represent a module, segment, or portion of instructions, which comprises one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s).
- the functions noted in the block may occur out of the order noted in the figures.
- two blocks shown in succession may, in fact, be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved.
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- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
- Pulmonology (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Biophysics (AREA)
- Orthopedic Medicine & Surgery (AREA)
- Respiratory Apparatuses And Protective Means (AREA)
Description
- A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material which is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.
- The present disclosure relates to sports mask and more particularly the disclosure relates to a sports mask for adjusting inhalation resistance settings to a user. As the user exercises, resistance settings of the sports mask can be varied based on the level of exertion of the user or blood oxygen saturation level of the user. Restricting air intake during physical exercise can provide the respiratory muscles with an extra load, which in turn works the pulmonary muscles more intensely to strengthen them. Persons with breathing difficulties including asthma, athletes and healthy persons can improve respiratory muscle strength by breathing against resistance.
- Respiratory muscle training is an essential training for athletes wishing to compete at a high level Respiratory muscle training helps athletes to prepare and get ready for high exertion programs. Restricting air intake during physical exercise can provide the respiratory muscles with an extra load, which in turn works the pulmonary muscles more intensely to strengthen them. Another function of the mask is to pool carbon dioxide during breathing, part of which is inhaled into the lungs to condition the respiratory center in the brain to a higher tolerance of carbon dioxide. This in turn reduces breathlessness during physical activity. Persons with breathing difficulties including asthma, athletes and healthy persons can improve respiratory muscle strength by breathing against resistance.
- The treatment is achievable with the aid of masks which have been designed particularly for this function and which include a check valve that allows air to be inhaled with resistance whereas, little or no resistance is provided while the air is being exhaled.
- Some of such masks include mask disclosed in
U.S. Pat. No. 6,554,746, to McConnell et al discloses an inspiratory muscle training device including an opening for the passage of air to be both inhaled and exhaled and an inlet permitting air to be inhaled to enter the chamber and to pass through the opening. There is provided an adjustable valve to vary the resistance to inhaling.U.S. Pat. No. 4,973,047, to Norell , discloses a therapeutic device for lung exercise which requires a mouthpiece, and has a rotatably adjustable air intake valve.U.S. Pat. No. 4,549,543, to Moon , discloses an air filtering face mask and the concept of a flexible face piece which conforms to the shape of the face of the wearer, and is held in place by scraps or a harness device. Further,CN105797318 discloses a resistive breathing device, comprising a mask. The mask is provided with a perimeter and a central hole which passes through the mask and extends. The mask is suitable to cover an oral area and a nasal part of a user, so that the perimeter and the face of the user form gas-tight seal. An outer layer covers the mask and comprises a pair of bands used to fix the mask on the face of the user. A plugboard is arranged in the central hole of the mask and is provided with an inlet hole extending through the mask. A central insert covers the plugboard, and is provided with an air inlet hole extending through the central insert, and the central insert can move between a first position and a second position. On the first position, the first part of the air inlet hole is overlapped with the air inlet hole of the plugboard. On the second position, the larger second part of the air inlet hole is overlapped with the air inlet hole of the plugboard. Furthermore,WO2014059389 discloses a software operated method/system for both breathing training and respiratory muscle training in which a user inhales and exhales via a mouthpiece through a hand-held breathing chamber so that pressure, time and direction of air breathed through the chamber is automatically measured. The breathing results are automatically processed and displaying on a remote screen as a real-time interactive graphic representing such air pressure, time and direction. The users base- line is established and a menu of training choices including interactive games is displayed. - However, the prior art provide separate passages for inhaling and exhaling, which may be worn by a user, in intensely vigorous exercise, without impeding the nature of the exercise conducted. Also, since the masks have manually adjustable valves and, since there is no way that the breathing restrictions could be correlated with the breathing restrictions, hence the breathing training cannot reach an optimum level.
- Therefore, an improvement is required on existing masks to optimize the inhalation training for athletes and healing of other ailments as discussed above.
- The present invention comprises a breathing exercise apparatus having the features recited in claim 1.
- Additional features and advantages are realized through the techniques of the present disclosure. Other embodiments and aspects of the present disclosure are described in detail herein and are considered a part of the present disclosure. For a better understanding of the present disclosure with advantages and features, refer to the description and to the drawings.
- The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of various embodiments, is better understood when read in conjunction with the drawings provided herein. For the purposes of illustration, there is shown in the drawings exemplary embodiments; however, the presently disclosed subject matter is not limited to the specific methods and instrumentalities disclosed.
-
FIG. 1 illustrates a line diagram depicting a sports mask, in accordance to an embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 2 illustrates a line diagram depicting head assembly and various parts, in accordance to another embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 3 illustrates a line diagram depicting exploded view of face assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 4A illustrates a line diagram depicting inner view of an outer unit of face mask unit of the face assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 4B illustrates a line diagram depicting side view of an outer unit of face mask unit of the face assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 5A , illustratea a line diagram depicting inner view of a middle unit of the face mask unit of the face assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 5B illustrates a line diagram depicting front view of a middle unit of the face mask unit of the face assembly, in accordance with an embdoiemnt of the invention. -
FIG. 6 illustrates a line diagram depicting innermost unit of the face mask unit of the face assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 7 illustrate a line diagram depicting exploded view of an airflow valve assembly of the face assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 8A illustrates a line diagram depicting back side view of a slider unit, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 8B illustrates a line diagram depicting front view of a slider unit, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention -
FIG. 9 illustrates a line diagram depicting an airflow vent, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 10 illustrates a line diagram depicting a valve catcher, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 11 illustrates a line diagram depicting a valve, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 12 illustrates line diagram depicting a grill cover, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 13A , illustrates a line diagram depicting front view of a grill, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 13B illustrates a line diagram depicting side view of a grill, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention -
FIG. 14 illustrates line diagram of a vital parameter calculating unit attached to inner side of outer cover of the face assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 15 , illustrates a diagram depicting a wearable device connected to sports mask, in accordance to an embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 16A illustrates a line diagram depicting slider for lowintake of air, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 16B illustrates a line diagram depicting slider for medium intake of air, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 16C illustrates a line diagram depicting slider for high intake of air, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. - The presently disclosed subject matter is described with specificity to meet statutory requirements. However, the description itself is not intended to limit the scope of this patent. Rather, the inventors have contemplated that the claimed subject matter might also be embodied in other ways, to include different steps or elements similar to the ones described in this document, in conjunction with other present or future technologies. Moreover, although the term "step" may be used herein to connote different aspects of methods employed, the term should not be interpreted as implying any particular order among or between various steps herein disclosed unless and except when the order of individual steps is explicitly described.
- Referring now to
FIG.1 , a line diagram that depicts asports mask 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The sports mask includes ahead assembly 102 that helps in keeping thesports mask 100 fixed to head of a user. Thehead assembly 102 is linked to aface assembly 104. Details ofhead assembly 102 andface assembly 104 will be discussed in detail in subsequent figures. In an embodiment of the invention, thesports mask 100 may include a connecting button (not shown) to initiate a connection with a wearable device. Details of the embodiment will be described later. - Now, referring to
FIG. 2 , that depicts ahead assembly 102 and its various constituent parts. The head assembly, as described keeps the sports mask fixed to the head of the user. In an embodiment of the invention, thehead assembly 102 is made up of durable, and stretchable fabric material. However, there can be other materials as well that may be utilized like fiber, plastic etc.Head assembly 102 includes a left strip 102a and a right strip 102b. Each of thestrips locking clip strips patches clips clips face assembly 104 and place it firmly on mouth and nose of the user. Details of theface assembly 104 will be discussed in detail. - Now, referring to
FIG. 3 that depicts aface assembly 104 of thesports mask 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.Face assembly 104 is placed on the mouth and nose region of the user while being used.Face assembly 104 includes various components that will now be discussed in detail. There is present aface mask unit 1043. Theface mask unit 1043 is placed within theface assembly 104 to enable inhalation and exhalation of air by the user. The face mask unit further contains anouter unit 1046, amiddle unit 1044, and aninnermost unit 1042. Details of all will be described later. - Still referring to
FIG. 3 , theface assembly 104, further includes agrill cover 10410.Grill cover 10410 is provided to keep safe and receive agrill 10412.Grill cover 10410 may be made up of plastic, or fiber or any other strong material. The grill cover, as disclosed above receives thegrill 10412. Details of thegrill 10412 will be received later. Thegrill cover 10410 with the affixed 10412 is attached to theouter unit 1046 of theface mask unit 1043. The attachment is done throughattachment straps outer unit 1046. However, there can be other means of attaching the grill cover to theouter unit 1046. Theface assembly 104 further contains anair flow module 1040. The airflow valve assembly 1040 can be fixed to theinnermost unit 1042 of theface mask unit 1043 and is finally in communication with thegrill 10412 when all the parts are connected to each other. Further details of the module will be explained later. - Now referring to
FIG. 4A and 4B that depict inner view and side view respectively of theouter unit 1046 of theface mask unit 1043. Theouter unit 1046 includes aleft strap 10464a and a right strap 10434b that are received by theleft clip face mask unit 1043 firmly on the head of the user. Theouter unit 1046 also includes acavity 10462 that is present to place and connect thegrill 10412 to the airflow valve assembly 1040. In an embodiment of the invention, thestraps face assembly 104. In other embodiments, thestraps clips straps main body 10466 of the mask. Themain body 10466 can be made up of, however not limiting the scope of the invention, high grade plastic, fiber, foam, etc. - Now, further referring to
FIG. 5A, 5B depicting inner view and front view respectively of themiddle unit 1044 of theface mask unit 1043. Themain body 10444 of themiddle unit 1044 can be made up of any of a plastic, a fabric, a foam, etc. themiddle unit 1044, includes acavity 10442 that is configured to receive and connect thegrill 10412 and the airflow valve assembly 1040. - Now referring to
FIG. 6 , that illustrates theinnermost unit 1042 of theface mask unit 1043. Theinnermost unit 1042 includes acavity 10422 for helping the airflow valve assembly 1040 to connect with thegrill 10412. The main body 10421 of theinnermost unit 1042 is made up of any of a plastic, a foam, and a fabric. - Now referring to
FIG. 7 that illustrates exploded view of anairflow valve assembly 1040, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Theairflow valve assembly 1040, includes anairflow vent 10420. This is the innermost unit of theairflow valve assembly 1040. Theairflow vent 10420 is in direct communication with nose and mouth of the user. Theairflow vent 10420, receives anairflow valve 10422 that is fixed on theairflow vent 10420 using avalve catcher 10424. Theairflow valve catcher 10424, fixes theairflow valve 10422 on to theairflow vent 10420. Theairflow valve assembly 1040, further includes aslider unit 10426. Theslider unit 10426, is connected to thevalve catcher 10424 on which theslider unit 10426 may be able to slide. The sliding mechanism can be either manual or automatic. Theslider unit 10426, can also be further connected to a motor (not shown in figure) that may help it to slide left or right for opening or closing of theairflow vent 10420. The opening and closing increases or decreases flow of air for the user performing or undergoing training exercise. - Now referring to
FIG. 8A and 8A , illustrating back side view and front view respectively of theslider unit 10426. In an embodiment of the invention,slider unit 10426 includes a slidingbutton 104262 for manually sliding theslider unit 104262. Also, there may be present a slidingnotch 104264 that helps in sliding movement. However, in other embodiments theslider unit 104262 can be connected to a small motor (not shown in figure) to facilitate the sliding movement. Theslider unit 104262 may be made up of rubber, plastic, or metal. - Now referring to
FIG. 9 , illustrating anairflow vent 10420 that helps in inflow and outflow of air to the user. Theairflow vent 10420 includesair holes 104202 in hexagonal form. However, there may be different form factor of holes that may be utilized for the same purpose. Theairflow vent 10420 also, includes avalve catcher notch 104204 that receives thevalve catcher 10424. It is to be noted that theairflow vent 10420 can have any other different configuration. The present configuration (vertical configuration) of half body of theairflow vent 10420 havingair holes 104202 and half body being opaque has been shown for exemplary purposes. In other embodiments, the configuration ca be changed to a horizontal configuration. - Now referring to
FIG. 10 , illustrates thevalve catcher 10424 that includes a catchingnotch 104242 to fix thevalve 10422 on to theairflow vent 10420. The material of the valve catcher can be anyone of a metal, plastic, or fiber, etc. - Now referring to
FIG. 11 illustrating thevalve 10422 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The material of the valve can be a plastic, a rubber, or a foam. It is to be understood that the shape of the valve can be varied as per the design preferences. Here however, for the purposes of example, the shape has been chosen as to be circular. Thevalve 10422 includes anotch 104222 that receives the catchingnotch 104242 to fix the valve on to theairflow vent 10420. - Now referring to
FIG. 12 , illustrating thegrill cover 10410. Thegrill cover 10410 can be made up of anyone of a metal, plastic, fiber, foam or a hardened cloth.Grill cover 10410, includes anopening 104102 that facilitates in communication of theairflow assembly 1040 with thegrill 10412 as depicted inFIG. 13A and 13B. FIG. 13A and 13B illustrate front view and side view respectively of thegrill 10412.Grill 10412 includes aside frame 104122. Theside frame 104122 can be made up of any one of a metal, a plastic, a rubber, or foam, etc. further, thegrill 10412 includes a base frame 104126 (shown inFIG. 13B ). The base frame is again made up of anyone of a metal, a plastic, a rubber, or foam, etc. There are also presentadditional fins 104124a-104124d, which help in filtering of the air. - Now referring to
FIG. 14 , illustrating a vitalparameter collection device 105, attached to theinnermost unit 10420 of theface mask unit 1043, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In an embodiment of the invention, the vitalparameter collection device 105 is a pulse oximeter. Pulse oximeter is a medical device that indirectly monitors the oxygen saturation of a patient's blood (as opposed to measuring oxygen saturation directly through a blood sample) and changes in blood volume in the skin, producing a photoplethysmogram. Thepulse oximeter 105 is in direct communication with a microcontroller (not shown in figure) embedded within theface assembly 104. The microcontroller includes stored instructions for various levels blood oxygen saturation readings. Hence, the microcontroller, as per the increased or decreased levels of blood oxygen saturation levels, may control the sliding of theslider unit 10426 by controlling the motor (not shown in figure) to slide. Based on pre-fed instructions, if the blood oxygen level falls below a threshold level, the microcontroller may open theslider unit 10426 to allow more air intake and vice versa. - In other embodiment of the invention, the sports mask may be connected to a wearable device through a network. The wearable device could be a smart watch. The network for communication could be any short range wireless connection like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, etc. There may be placed a microcontroller placed on the sports mask to collect readings from the
pulse oximeter 105 and send these to the wearable device. The sliding function of theslider unit 10426 may also be controlled by the wearable device or smart watch by user's interference or the control can be automatic based on the pre-fed instructions. Based on pre-fed instructions, if the blood oxygen level falls below a threshold level, the microcontroller may open theslider unit 10426 to allow more air intake and vice versa. - Now referring to
FIG. 15 , illustrating awearable device 200 connected to thesports mask 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Thesports mask 100 may include a button (not shown in figure) to initiate a connection request to thewearable device 200. The connection can be through any of the small range wireless connections including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, ZigBee, Near Field Communication (NFC), etc. The connection, once successful, initiates an application launch that may present an interface as shown in the figure. There may be present various icons on the application interface. There may be provided aquery field 204 wherein the user is provided with a query "Initiate Oxygen Level Monitoring?" if the user wants to use auto-slide control feature, the user may choose thumbs upicon 202a. On choosing this, the user enables the automatic control of theslider unit 10426. On choosing thumbs down, the user can control the sliding manually. - Now referring to
FIG. 16A-16C , illustrates the multiple positioning of theslider unit 10426 on theairflow vent 10420.FIG. 16A displays low oxygen intake level. At this level, there is very minimal intake of air and thus Oxygen.FIG. 16B illustrates medium oxygen intake level. At this position, the intake of Oxygen is at a medium level. Further,FIG. 16C , illustrates high intake level that is the highest possible opening of theairflow vent 10420. At this level, theslider unit 10426 is at the extreme right position. It should be understood, POSITA can generate various other intermediate levels. The levels described above are exemplary and can be modified. It is to be noted that the air inflow restriction control does not interfere too much with air outflow control. - Aspects of the present subject matter are described herein with reference to flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams of methods and apparatus (systems) according to embodiments of the subject matter. It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer readable program instructions.
- While there has been shown, and described herein what are presently considered the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made therein without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
- The flowchart and block diagrams in the Figures illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products according to various embodiments of the present subject matter. In this regard, each block in the flowchart or block diagrams may represent a module, segment, or portion of instructions, which comprises one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). In some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the block may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two blocks shown in succession may, in fact, be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved. It will also be noted that each block of the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, can be implemented by special purpose hardware-based systems that perform the specified functions or acts or carry out combinations of special purpose hardware and computer instructions.
Claims (13)
- A sports mask (100) for adjusting inhalation resistance settings to a user, the sports mask (100) comprising;
a head assembly (102) configured to hold the sports mask (100) to head of a user while the sports mask (100) is in use;
a face assembly (104) to cover a mouth and nose region of the user, the face assembly (104) comprisingan outer unit (1046), the outer unit (1046) being an individual standalone module, an inner most unit (1042), the inner most unit (1042) being an individual standalone module separate from the outer unit (1042), anda middle unit (1044), the middle unit (1044) being an individual standalone module separate from the outer unit (1046) and the inner most unit (1042), wherein the middle unit (1044) is received between the outer unit (1046) and the inner most unit (1042) to be assembled together to obtain the face assembly (104),each of the outer unit (1046), the middle unit (1044) and the inner most unit (1042) having a cavity (10462,10442,10422) adapted to be located concentrically as the outer unit (1046), the middle unit (1044) and the inner most unit (1042) being assembled together, wherein the outer (1046), middle (1044) and inner most (1042) units are in decreasing order of sizes thereof and complements each other in shape to be snugly assembled together;a strap assembly (10464a, 10464b) extending from the outer unit (1046) of the face assembly (104) and coupled to the head assembly (104) to hold the face assembly (104) to cover the mouth and nose region of the user;
a grill cover (10410) coupled to the outer unit (1046), the grill cover (10410) having an opening (104102), wherein the opening (104102) is located concentrically to the cavities (10462, 10442,10422);
a grill (10412) adapted to be received by the opening (104102) of the grill cover (10410); and
a modular air flow valve assembly (1040) adapted to be received by the cavity (10422) of the inner most unit (1042) to enable the air flow valve assembly (1040) to be in communication with the grill (10412), the modular air flow valve assembly (1040) comprising,an airflow vent (10420), the airflow vent (10420) having; a first cutout, and a second cutout configured below the first cutout and extending only up to half a portion of the first cutout, each of the first and second cutouts having air holes (104202),an airflow valve (10422) adapted to be disposed over the first cutout of the airflow vent, the first cutout including a valve catcher (10424) engaged with the airflow valve (10422),a slider unit (10426) adapted to engage with the valve catcher (10424) along the air holes (104202),characterized in that:
the airflow vent (10420) along the air holes (104202) includes a pair of valve catcher notches (104204) configured linearly across each other to engage with the valve catcher (10424), and in that the valve catcher (10424) is adapted be placed over the airflow valve (10422) and distal ends of the valve catcher (10424) are engaged with the pair of valve catcher notches (104204) to place the airflow valve (10424) in the engaging position with the airflow vent (10420), and, further the slider unit (10426) that is engaged with the valve catcher (10424) along the first cutout and adapted to extend up to an entire region of the second cutout to cover the air holes of the second cutout, the slider unit being slideable linearly over the valve catcher (10424) to open and close the air holes (104202) of the second cutout, the slider unit (10426) being adapted to be shifted linearly along the valve catcher (10424) to define multiple positions for generating various intermediate levels between a minimum and a maximum opening levels of the second cutout to vary flow of air flowing in the air flow valve assembly (1040) from the air holes of the second cutout. - The sports mask (100) of claim 1, wherein the strap assembly (10464a, 10464b) comprises a left strap (10464a) and a right strap (10464b), each extending from the outer unit (1046) of the face assembly (104).
- The sports mask (100) of claim 2, wherein the head assembly (102) comprises a left clip (1022a) to receive the left strap (10464a) and a right clip (1022b) to receive the right strap (10464b) of the face assembly (104).
- The sports mask (100) of claim 3, wherein the left strap (10464a) and the right strap (10464b) are releasably attached to the left clip (1022a) and the right clip (1022b), respectively.
- The sports mask (100) of claim 4, further comprising a fastener at ends of the left strap (10464a) and the right strap (10464b) to releasably attach with the left clip (1022a) and the right clip (1022b), respectively.
- The sports mask (100) of claim 1, wherein the slider unit (10426) being a longitudinal structure, and comprises:a sliding notch (104264) through which the slider unit (10426) is slidably affixed to the valve catcher (10424) to slid over the valve catcher; anda sliding button (104262) coupled to the sliding unit (10426) to be pushed to enable linear movement of the sliding unit (10426), through the sliding notch (104264), over the valve catcher (10424) to open and close the air holes (104202) of the second cutout to vary flow of air flowing from the grill (10412) in the air flow valve assembly (1040),wherein the sliding notch (104264) and the sliding button (104262) being configured along opposite to each other at distal end portions of the slider unit.
- The sports mask (100) of claim 6, wherein the slider unit (10426) further comprises a motor to automatically push the sliding button to facilitate linear sliding movement of the slider unit, through the sliding notch, over the valve catcher to open and close air holes of the second cutout to vary flow of air flowing from the grill in the air flow valve assembly.
- The sports mask (100) of claim 6, wherein the sliding button (104262) is manually pushed by the user to facilitate linear sliding movement of the slider unit, through the sliding notch, over the valve catcher to open and close air holes of the second cutout to vary flow of air flowing from the grill in the air flow valve assembly.
- The sports mask of claim 1, wherein the grill (10412) comprises:a frame (104122) with a frame base (104126), the frame, through the frame base, secured in the opening of the grill cover (10410) to couple the grill (10412) with the grill cover (10410); anda plurality of fins (104124a-104124d) disposed along the frame (104122) to filter the air passing there-through.
- The sports mask (100) of claim 8, further comprising:a vital parameter collection device (105) attached to the innermost unit (1042) of the face mask, the vital parameter collection device (105) adapted to collect and monitor data related to requirement of oxygen to the user; anda microcontroller embedded within the face assembly (104), and, in direct communication with the vital parameter collection device, the microcontroller, as per requirement of oxygen, may control the sliding of the slider unit by controlling the motor.
- The sports mask (100) of claim 1 further comprising:
a button electronically embedded in the sports mask (100) to wirelessly couple the sports mask to an external device. - A system for monitoring oxygen level in a user, the system comprising:a sports mask (100) according to claim 1; anda wearable device wirelessly connected to the sports mask (100), the wearable device being a smart watch to control the air flow resistance varying module to vary flow of air flowing from the grill (10412) in the air flow valve assembly (1040).
- The system of claim 12 further comprising:a vital parameter collection device (105) attached to the innermost unit (1042) of the face mask, the vital parameter collection device adapted to collect and monitor data related to requirement of oxygen to the user and send the same to the wearable device; anda microcontroller embedded within the face assembly (104), and, in communication with the vital parameter collection device and the wearable device, the microcontroller, as per requirement of oxygen to the user, may control the air flow resistance varying module, by controlling a motor, based on instruction of the wearable device.
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US15/371,461 US9914017B2 (en) | 2016-05-17 | 2016-12-07 | Sports mask system |
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EP3332841A1 EP3332841A1 (en) | 2018-06-13 |
EP3332841B1 true EP3332841B1 (en) | 2020-10-07 |
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EP17205763.0A Active EP3332841B1 (en) | 2016-12-07 | 2017-12-06 | A sports mask system |
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US7958889B1 (en) * | 2010-01-15 | 2011-06-14 | Aurora L. Fernandez de Castro | Protective face cover and moldable attachment |
US9452317B2 (en) * | 2012-10-11 | 2016-09-27 | Bezalel Arkush | Breathing and respiratory muscle training method and system |
US9707444B1 (en) * | 2016-03-22 | 2017-07-18 | Trainingmask Llc | Resistance breathing device |
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2017
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