DE202020104775U1 - Respiratory protection device - Google Patents

Abstract

A respiratory protection device (100) comprising:
- A mask (1) which can be placed on at least the mouth and nose of a person and has an entrance (11) and an exit (12),
- A filter unit (2) for cleaning air, which has an inlet (21) via which fresh air can flow into the filter unit (2), and which has an outlet (22) via which filtered fresh air is used as breathing air for the mask (1) is provided, and
- At least one first connecting element (31) which connects the outlet (22) of the filter unit (2) for providing breathing air to the inlet (11) of the mask (1), characterized in that
the filter unit (2) comprises a breathing air filter (4) and at least one UV light source (5), the filter unit (2) being designed in such a way that the UV radiation emitted by the UV light source (5) onto the breathing air filter (4) is directed to disinfect it.

Description

The invention relates to a respiratory protection device.

Respiratory masks are protective masks that completely or partially cover the face and protect the person wearing the respirator from airborne pollutants. In this context, particle-filtering half masks FFP (FFP = "filtering face piece") are known, which surround the nose and mouth and filter out particles and / or aerosols from the fresh air before inhaling. Filtering half masks usually consist of a non-woven material as the filter material.

From the EP 1 465 705 A1 it is known to use UV light to disinfect breathing air.

The importance of respiratory masks has increased suddenly with the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The challenge here is to effectively remove virus-containing particles, both in the form of droplets and in the form of aerosols that carry the virus, from the air to be inhaled. Virus-containing droplets are typically produced when a person infected with the virus sneezes, coughs, and speaks. Virus-containing aerosols are typically produced when a person infected with the virus exhales. There is a need for respiratory protection devices that provide a sufficient level of security against viruses such as the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

The protection against infections via breathing air, which is necessary in order to contain a pandemic, depends on external epidemiological parameters such as the number of reproductions.

The present invention is based on the object of providing a respiratory protection device with an effective protective function with regard to virus-containing particles in the ambient air. Furthermore, a respiratory protection device is to be provided, the protective function of which can be adapted to external epidemiological parameters such as the reproduction factor.

According to the invention, this object is achieved by a respiratory protection device with the features of claim 1, a respiratory protection device with the features of claim 24 and a modular breathing protection system with the features of claim 25. Refinements of the invention are given in the dependent claims.

According to a first aspect of the invention, the present invention then provides a respiratory protection device which comprises a mask that can be placed on at least the mouth and nose of a person. The mask has an inlet, also referred to as an air inlet opening, and an outlet, also referred to as an air outlet opening. The respiratory protection device further comprises a filter unit for cleaning air, which has an inlet via which fresh air can flow into the filter unit, and which has an outlet via which filtered fresh air is provided as breathing air for the mask. A connecting element connects the outlet of the filter unit with the inlet of the mask to provide breathing air.

It is provided that the filter unit comprises a flat breathing air filter and at least one UV light source, the filter unit being designed such that the UV radiation emitted by the UV light source is directed onto the breathing air filter in order to disinfect it.

According to the first aspect of the invention, the present invention is based on the idea of specifically irradiating the breathing air filter, which absorbs the droplets and aerosols to be filtered out of the breathing air, with UV light and thereby disinfecting the breathing air filter. Due to the exposure to UV light, the breathing air filter cannot be contaminated with viruses over the long term. The feature here means that the UV radiation emitted by the UV light source is directed onto the breathing air filter, not necessarily that the UV radiation falls directly from the UV light source onto the breathing protection filter. This can also be achieved indirectly, for example by deflecting a mirror.

It can be provided that the at least one UV light source is designed to continuously irradiate the breathing air filter with UV light from one side or from both sides. In the case of irradiation from both sides, a plurality of UV light sources is naturally provided.

The UV light source is designed, for example, as a UV LED. UV LEDs, which emit in the radiation ranges UV-A, UV-B or UV-C radiation, are basically known and represent, for example, that International Light Technologies, Inc. in Peabody, USA. The light spectrum in which light is emitted is preferably matched to the wavelengths that kill the relevant virus. In the case of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, these are wavelengths in the UV-C range (200 nm to 280 nm), in particular with radiation peaks at 265 nm or 275 nm.

The UV light source comprises a battery or other power source that is integrated into the filter unit or designed as a separate unit.

The UV light source used emits UV radiation non-isotropically, i. H. it has a radiation pattern that is not ideally spherical. Accordingly, it drifts into different areas of the room with a different radiation intensity (also referred to as radiation intensity). It is provided that the UV light source in the filter unit is aligned such that the maximum radiation intensity is directed directly or via mirrors in the direction of the breathing air filter or in the direction of a region of the breathing air filter. This ensures that the UV light source is primarily used to kill viruses in the material of the breathing air filter.

A connecting element in the sense of the present invention is any structure that connects or couples a filter unit to the mask. For example, it can be a hose or a pipe. If the filter unit is attached directly to the mask, a connecting element is formed by the structure that holds the filter unit on the mask and through which air from the filter unit passes into the mask.

One embodiment of the invention provides that the filter unit contains at least one further UV light source which is arranged and designed in such a way that it irradiates the air in the filter unit with UV light in order to disinfect it. Such a further UV light source thus serves to kill viruses contained in the droplets and aerosols in the air. The further UV light source can be configured so that it can be switched on and off, so that it is activated, for example, only when the risk of contamination, for example due to a gathering of people, is particularly great.

In general, the filter unit has at least one chamber through which air flows via the inlet of the filter unit. It can be provided that the walls of the chamber are designed to be playful, so that UV radiation generated by the UV light sources is reflected several times on the walls and viruses are thereby killed in a particularly effective manner.

Another embodiment provides that the filter unit furthermore has an ozone generator and an ozone filter, the ozone generator being arranged and designed in such a way that the ozone generated by it mixes with the fresh air in the filter unit to disinfect it, and the ozone filter is arranged and configured in this way is designed that it then removes the ozone generated by the ozone generator from the air in the filter unit again. The ozone filter can be integrated into the breathing air filter or a separate filter. The ozone filter is, for example, a catalytic filter that reduces the ozone content to harmless levels before inhaling the air you breathe.

This aspect of the invention provides disinfection via the ozone generated. The ozone generator can be switched on and off so that it is only activated, for example, when the risk of contamination, for example due to a gathering of people, is particularly great. This also serves to save the battery of the respiratory protection device.

A further embodiment can provide that the ozone generated is used to disinfect or additionally disinfect the breathing air filter.

Another embodiment provides that the respiratory protection device further comprises a cyclone separator, which is connected upstream of the filter unit and connected to the inlet of the filter unit. In particular, a cyclone separator reduces the concentration of infectious material in the breathing air, which is transported in the form of droplets. In the cyclone separator, the air is typically passed through a cylindrically arranged air duct in which deflector plates are attached, which ensure a circular air flow. The centrifugal effect pushes droplets in the air against the outer wall. Some of the droplets are deposited on the wall of the air duct. This will reduce the concentration of infectious material in the air.

Another embodiment of the invention provides that the filter unit and / or the at least one connecting element has surfaces which are provided with a germicidal coating. It is For example, it is provided that a plurality of plates or flags through which air flows are integrated into the filter unit and / or the at least one connecting element, the plates or flags being provided with a germicidal coating on one or both sides. The plates can for example be arranged in parallel, forming a stack of plates, or alternatively be designed as baffle plates.

According to the variants of the invention described so far, it is not absolutely necessary that the exhaled air also flows through the filter unit. If this is not the case, the air outlet opening of the mask comprises, for example, only a valve through which exhaled air is released into the environment when exhaling.

In contrast, an advantageous embodiment of the invention provides that the exhaled air also flows through the filter unit. For this purpose, it is provided that the filter unit furthermore has a second input via which exhaled air can flow back into the filter unit, the second input being connected to an output of the mask via a second connection element. The filtering of the exhaled air also protects other people from infection in the event that the person wearing the respirator is infected with a virus.

It is provided in design variants that the exhaled air also passes through the breathing air filter and, if present, a cyclone separator and / or germicidal plates and / or a chamber with a UV light source and / or an ozone generator. The inlet of the filter unit is also used to release exhaled air into the environment when exhaling and after passing through the filter unit. Alternatively, the filter unit has a separate outlet for exhaled air.

• - einen Eingang, durch den Frischluft in die Mischkammer einströmen kann,
• - einen Ausgang, der mit dem Eingang der Maske verbunden ist, und
• - einen zweiten Eingang, wobei der Ausgang der Maske mit dem zweiten Eingang verbunden ist,
• - wobei dem Ausgang und dem zweiten Eingang Ventile derart zugeordnet sind, dass beim Einatmen eines Nutzers der Vorrichtung über den Eingang Frischluft in die Mischkammer strömt, beim Ausatmen des Nutzers der Vorrichtung ausgeatmete Luft über den zweiten Eingang in die Mischkammer strömt, und beim Einatmen des Nutzers der Vorrichtung in der Mischkammer gemischte Luft, die aus einer Mischung von Frischluft und ausgeatmeter Luft besteht, über den Ausgang zum Eingang der Maske transportiert wird.

If the filter unit also cleans the exhaled air, an advantageous embodiment of the invention provides that the device further comprises a mixer formed separately from the mask with a mixing chamber, the mixer being located downstream of the filter unit or integrated into the filter unit. The mixer is used to mix fresh air and exhaled air before inhaling. For this purpose, the mixing chamber has:

• - an inlet through which fresh air can flow into the mixing chamber,
• - an output connected to the input of the mask, and
• - a second input, the output of the mask being connected to the second input,
• - Valves being assigned to the outlet and the second inlet in such a way that when a user of the device inhales fresh air flows into the mixing chamber via the inlet, exhaled air flows through the second inlet into the mixing chamber when the user of the device exhales, and when the user breathes in User of the device in the mixing chamber mixed air, which consists of a mixture of fresh air and exhaled air, is transported via the exit to the entrance of the mask.

The use of such a mixing chamber is associated with the technical effect of lowering the concentration of infectious material in the air to be inhaled. This effect is based on the fact that, due to the fact that partially exhaled air is inhaled, the concentration of infectious material in the inhaled air is reduced.

A variant of this embodiment provides that the mixing chamber has a volume which is in the range between 30% and 80%, in particular in the range between 40% and 60% of the air volume of an average breath of a person being viewed. The observed person can be, for example, a standardized male person, a standardized female person, a standardized child or a standardized young person. The mixing ratio mentioned ensures an effective lowering of the concentration of infectious material without lowering the oxygen content of the air too much.

One embodiment variant provides that the volume of the mixing chamber can be adjusted. For this purpose, the mixing chamber is designed, for example, as a bellows, the volume of which can be adjusted using an adjusting screw, for example. The mixing ratio between fresh air and exhaled air in the mixer can be set via the volume of the mixing chamber.

If the mixer is integrated into the filter unit, which is the case in the advantageous refinements of the invention, the mixing chamber is the same as the filter chamber. The filter is arranged in the mixing chamber.

A further exemplary embodiment of the invention provides that a storage container is integrated into the first connecting element and / or into the second connecting element, which can hold a multiple of the average tidal volume of a person. The storage container is provided, for example, by a chamber integrated into the respective connecting element or by the volume of a connecting element designed as a hose. This aspect of the invention is based on the knowledge that the provision of large cavities can reduce the concentration of infectious material in the breathing air, since an onset of pollutant concentration is only transferred into the inhaled air with a delay. This is especially true in combination with a mixer. The use of a storage container is also a great advantage in recirculation mode.

A further embodiment of the invention provides that the device furthermore has an expansion tank for a circulating air mode, the expansion tank being connected to the inlet of the filter. An operation in which no fresh air from the outside enters the device, the air present in the device thus merely circulates, is referred to as recirculation mode. A recirculation mode can only take place for a short time, since the oxygen content within the device is constantly falling. The provision of an expansion tank enables the exhaled air to be taken up and then fed back to the filter unit in the circuit.

The breathing air filter is, for example, a flat material, in particular a nonwoven. The breathing air filter is generally arranged in the filter chamber in such a way that inflowing fresh air flows through it before the then purified fresh air is fed as breathing air to the outlet of the filter unit. The material used for the breathing air filter can be any customary filter material, for example a filter material that meets the requirements of protection levels FFP1, FFP2 or FFP3.

The mask of the respiratory protection device according to the invention is preferably a tight-fitting mask, so that the cleaning of the fresh air by the filter unit is not impaired by air flowing directly into the mask. The mask is designed, for example, as a half mask that covers the mouth and nose of a user.

The filter unit can be a unit which is embodied separately from the mask and which is connected to the mask via tubes. The filter unit is then arranged, for example, on the belt or in a knapsack on the back.

Another embodiment variant provides that the filter unit is connected directly to the mask without the use of tubes. This provides an integrated, gas mask-like structure.

A variant of this embodiment provides that the outlet of the mask is connected directly to the environment via an adjustable gate valve, the proportion of exhaled air flowing out being adjustable via the gate valve. The portion of the exhaled air that has not flowed out flows back into the filter unit or, alternatively, into a connecting element between the filter unit and the mask. In this way, a mixing of exhaled and inhaled air can be achieved even without providing a separate mixer, the mixing taking place in the filter or in the first connecting element.

• - einen Eingang, durch den Frischluft in die Mischkammer einströmen kann,
• - einen Ausgang, der mit dem Eingang der Maske verbunden ist, und
• - einen zweiten Eingang, wobei der Ausgang der Maske mit dem zweiten Eingang verbunden ist,
• - wobei dem Ausgang und dem zweiten Eingang Ventile derart zugeordnet sind, dass beim Einatmen eines Nutzers der Vorrichtung über den Eingang Frischluft in die Mischkammer strömt, beim Ausatmen des Nutzers der Vorrichtung ausgeatmete Luft über den zweiten Eingang in die Mischkammer strömt, und beim Einatmen des Nutzers der Vorrichtung in der Mischkammer gemischte Luft, die aus einer Mischung von

According to a second aspect of the invention, the present invention relates to a respiratory protection device which comprises a mask with an inlet and an outlet. Furthermore, the respiratory protection device comprises a mixer formed separately from the mask and having a mixing chamber, the mixing chamber having:

• - an inlet through which fresh air can flow into the mixing chamber,
• - an output connected to the input of the mask, and
• - a second input, the output of the mask being connected to the second input,
• - Valves being assigned to the outlet and the second inlet in such a way that when a user of the device inhales fresh air flows into the mixing chamber via the inlet, exhaled air flows through the second inlet into the mixing chamber when the user of the device exhales, and when the user breathes in User of the device in the mixing chamber mixed air, which consists of a mixture of

Fresh air and exhaled air is transported via the exit to the entrance of the mask.

This aspect of the invention is associated with the advantage of lowering the concentration of infectious material in the air to be inhaled.

The second aspect of the invention can be combined with the further refinements described above according to claims 5 to 23 without necessarily irradiating the breathing air filter with UV light.

• - eine auf zumindest Mund und Nase einer Person aufsetzbare Maske, die einen Eingang und einen Ausgang aufweist,
• - einen Atemluftfilter;
• - eine Filtereinheit, die einen Atemluftfilter und mindestens eine UV-Lichtquelle umfasst, wobei die Filtereinheit derart ausgebildet ist, das von der UV-Lichtquelle abgestrahlte UV-Strahlung auf den Atemluftfilter gerichtet ist, um diesen zu desinfizieren,
• - einen Mischer mit einer Mischkammer, der derart ausgebildet ist, dass beim Einatmen eines Nutzers über einen Eingang Frischluft in die Mischkammer strömt, beim Ausatmen des Nutzers ausgeatmete Luft über einen zweiten Eingang in die Mischkammer strömt, und beim Einatmen des Nutzers in der Mischkammer gemischte Luft, die aus einer Mischung von Frischluft und ausgeatmeter Luft besteht, über den Ausgang zum Eingang der Maske transportiert wird,
• - eine Filtereinheit, die UV-Lichtquellen aufweist, die derart angeordnet und ausgebildet ist, dass sie die Luft in der Filtereinheit zu deren Desinfektion mit UV-Licht bestrahlt,
• - eine Filtereinheit, die einen Ozongenerator und einen Ozonfilter aufweist, wobei der Ozongenerator dazu ausgebildet ist, dass von ihm erzeugtes Ozon sich mit der Frischluft in der Filtereinheit zu deren Desinfektion vermischt, und der Ozonfilter dazu ausgebildet ist, dass er anschließend das durch den Ozongenerator erzeugte Ozon wieder aus der Luft entfernt;
• - Schläuche,
• - wobei sämtliche Komponenten des Atemschutz-Baukastensystems modular ausgebildet und über Steckverbindungen oder Schraubverbindungen miteinander verbindbar sind, um der Maske gefilterte Luft über deren Eingang zuzuführen und/oder ausgeatmete Luft vom Ausgang der Maske wegzuführen.

According to a third aspect of the invention, the invention relates to a modular breathing protection system which has:

• a mask which can be placed on at least the mouth and nose of a person and has an entrance and an exit,
• - a breathing air filter;
• - A filter unit which comprises a breathing air filter and at least one UV light source, the filter unit being designed such that the UV radiation emitted by the UV light source is directed onto the breathing air filter in order to disinfect it,
• A mixer with a mixing chamber, which is designed in such a way that fresh air flows into the mixing chamber via an inlet when a user inhales, exhaled air flows into the mixing chamber via a second inlet when the user exhales, and mixed in the mixing chamber when the user inhales Air, which consists of a mixture of fresh air and exhaled air, is transported via the outlet to the inlet of the mask,
• - a filter unit which has UV light sources which are arranged and designed in such a way that they irradiate the air in the filter unit with UV light to disinfect it,
• - A filter unit which has an ozone generator and an ozone filter, the ozone generator being designed so that the ozone generated by it mixes with the fresh air in the filter unit to disinfect it, and the ozone filter is designed so that it is then passed through the ozone generator generated ozone is removed from the air again;
• - hoses,
• - All components of the modular breathing protection system are modular and can be connected to one another via plug connections or screw connections in order to supply filtered air to the mask via its inlet and / or to lead exhaled air away from the outlet of the mask.

The third aspect of the invention provides a modular breathing protection kit system that can be adapted to the prevailing conditions and from which a desired breathing protection device can be produced by combining components of the kit system. The individual components can be connected to one another via plug connections or screw connections. For this purpose, the individual components are optionally arranged in suitable housings or the like, which can be connected to one another.

This aspect of the invention is based on the knowledge that 100% secure protection against infections via the breath is not always necessary and that it is much more sufficient to combine one or more modular components with appropriate mechanisms of action. The advantage is that respiratory masks can be created with different levels of protection.

To further explain the advantages of a modular breathing protection system, the terms "protection factor" and "reproduction number" are discussed below. The protection factor S indicates how many infections can be prevented compared to an unprotected case. With a protection factor S of 0.1, for example, 10% of infections are prevented. The protection factor S is between 0 and 1, whereby a protection factor of 0 means that the mask is ineffective and a protection factor of 1 means that all infections are prevented.

The reproduction number R indicates how many secondary infections an infected person causes. If R is greater than 1, the number of infections increases exponentially. If R is less than 1, the number of infections decreases. In general, to contain the epidemic, the product of the reproduction factor and the term "1 minus protection factor" must be less than 1: R * (1-S) <1.

It is now important to recognize that an R-factor greater than 1 can be compensated for by a suitable choice of S in order to keep an epidemic under control. For example, if R = 1.5, an epidemic can be prevented with a protection factor greater than 0.33, as the following table shows: R. Protection factor Protection factor Protection factor Protection factor Protection factor step 1.5 0.1 0.2 0.5 0.6 0.7 0 1000 1000 1000 1000 1000 1000 1 1500 1350 1200 750 600 450 2 2250 1823 1440 563 360 203 3 3375 2460 1728 422 216 91 4th 5063 3322 2074 316 130 41 5 7594 4484 2488 237 78 18th 6th 11391 6053 2986 178 47 8th 7th 17086 8172 3583 133 28 4th 8th 25629 11032 4300 100 17th 2 9 38443 14894 5160 75 10 1 10 57665 20107 6192 56 6th 0

The modular structure makes it possible, depending on the epidemiological framework conditions, in particular the prevailing value R, to implement a suitable protective effect or a suitable protection factor through the mask.

• 1 schematisch ein Ausführungsbeispiel einer Atemschutzvorrichtung, die eine Maske und eine Filtereinheit umfasst, wobei die Filtereinheit über Schläuche, in die Vorratsbehälter integriert sind, mit der Maske verbunden ist;
• 2 schematisch eine Filtereinheit mit darin integrierten UV-Lichtquellen zur Desinfektion der in der Filtereinheit befindlichen Luft;
• 3 schematisch eine Filtereinheit mit einem darin integrierten Ozongenerator und einem nachgeordneten Ozonfilter;
• 4 schematisch eine Filtereinheit, die mehrere UV-Lichtquelle umfasst, wobei die von den UV-Lichtquellen abgestrahlte UV-Strahlung auf einen Atemluftfilter gerichtet ist, wobei der Atemluftfilter von beiden Seiten mit UV-Strahlung bestrahlt wird;
• 5 eine Filtereinheit gemäß 4, wobei der Atemluftfilter nur von einer Seite mit UV-Strahlung bestrahlt wird;
• 6 eine Filtereinheit gemäß 4, wobei in die Filtereinheit mehrere Atemluftfilter integriert sind, die jeweils mit UV-Strahlung bestrahlt werden;
• 7 ein Ausführungsbeispiel eines Mischers, in dem Frischluft mit ausgeatmeter Luft vor der Einatmung gemischt wird;
• 8 ein Ausführungsbeispiel eines Verbindungselements, in das keimtötend beschichtete parallele Platten integriert sind;
• 9 ein weiteres Ausführungsbeispiel eines Verbindungselements, in das keimtötend beschichtete Platten integriert sind, wobei die Platten als Prallplatten angeordnet sind;
• 10 ein Ausführungsbeispiel einer Atemschutzvorrichtung, die einen Mischer gemäß der 7 und Vorratsbehälter für einzuatmende Luft und ausgeatmete Luft umfasst;
• 11 eine alternative Ausgestaltung einer Atemschutzvorrichtung, die einen Mischer und Vorratsbehälter umfasst;
• 12 schematisch in Schläuche, die mit der Maske der Atemschutzvorrichtung verbunden sind, integrierte Platten, die keimtötend beschichtet sind;
• 13 ein Ausführungsbeispiel einer Filtereinheit einer Atemschutzvorrichtung, wobei die Filtereinheit nur einzuatmende Frischluft filtert;
• 14 ein weiteres Ausführungsbeispiel einer Filtereinheit einer Atemschutzvorrichtung, wobei die Filtereinheit sowohl einzuatmende Frischluft als auch ausgeatmete Luft filtert;
• 15 ein Ausführungsbeispiel einer Atemschutzvorrichtung, die ausschließlich die einzuatmende Frischluft filtert, wobei eine Filtereinheit integral mit einer Maske ausgebildet ist;
• 16 ein weiteres Ausführungsbeispiel einer Atemschutzvorrichtung, die ausschließlich die einzuatmende Frischluft filtert, wobei eine Filtereinheit als gesonderte Einheit ausgebildet, auf dem Rücken der betroffenen Person angeordnet und über einen Schlauch mit einer Maske verbunden ist;
• 17 ein weiteres Ausführungsbeispiel einer Atemschutzvorrichtung, die ausschließlich die einzuatmende Frischluft filtert, wobei eine Filtereinheit als gesonderte Einheit ausgebildet, am Gürtel der betroffenen Person angeordnet und über einen Schlauch mit einer Maske verbunden ist;
• 18 ein Ausführungsbeispiel einer Atemschutzvorrichtung, die sowohl die einzuatmende Frischluft als auch die ausgeatmete Luft filtert, wobei eine Filtereinheit einen Mischer umfasst, am Gürtel der betroffenen Person angeordnet und über zwei Schläuche mit einer Maske verbunden ist; und
• 19 ein Ausführungsbeispiel einer Atemschutzvorrichtung, die sowohl die einzuatmende Frischluft als auch die ausgeatmete Luftfilter filtert, wobei eine Filtereinheit einen Mischer umfasst, auf dem Rücken der betroffenen Person angeordnet und über zwei Schläuche mit einer Maske verbunden ist.

The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the figures of the drawing on the basis of several exemplary embodiments. Show it:

• 1 schematically, an exemplary embodiment of a respiratory protection device comprising a mask and a filter unit, the filter unit being connected to the mask via hoses in which storage containers are integrated;
• 2 schematically a filter unit with integrated UV light sources for disinfecting the air in the filter unit;
• 3 schematically a filter unit with an ozone generator integrated therein and a downstream ozone filter;
• 4th schematically, a filter unit which comprises several UV light sources, the UV radiation emitted by the UV light sources being directed onto a breathing air filter, the breathing air filter being irradiated with UV radiation from both sides;
• 5 a filter unit according to 4th The breathing air filter is exposed to UV radiation from only one side;
• 6th a filter unit according to 4th , wherein several breathing air filters are integrated into the filter unit, each of which is irradiated with UV radiation;
• 7th an embodiment of a mixer in which fresh air is mixed with exhaled air before inhalation;
• 8th an embodiment of a connecting element in which germicidal coated parallel plates are integrated;
• 9 a further embodiment of a connecting element, in the germicidal coated plates are integrated, wherein the plates are arranged as baffle plates;
• 10 an embodiment of a respiratory protection device that has a mixer according to FIG 7th and comprises reservoirs for inhaled air and exhaled air;
• 11 an alternative embodiment of a respiratory protection device comprising a mixer and storage container;
• 12 schematically in hoses which are connected to the mask of the respiratory protection device, integrated plates, which are coated germicidal;
• 13 an embodiment of a filter unit of a respiratory protection device, wherein the filter unit filters only fresh air to be inhaled;
• 14th a further embodiment of a filter unit of a respiratory protection device, wherein the filter unit filters both fresh air to be inhaled and exhaled air;
• 15th an embodiment of a respiratory protection device that filters only the fresh air to be inhaled, wherein a filter unit is formed integrally with a mask;
• 16 a further exemplary embodiment of a respiratory protection device which exclusively filters the fresh air to be inhaled, a filter unit being designed as a separate unit, being arranged on the back of the person concerned and being connected to a mask via a hose;
• 17th a further embodiment of a respiratory protection device that filters only the fresh air to be inhaled, a filter unit being designed as a separate unit, arranged on the belt of the person concerned and connected to a mask via a hose;
• 18th an embodiment of a respiratory protection device that filters both the fresh air to be inhaled and the exhaled air, wherein a filter unit comprises a mixer, is arranged on the belt of the person concerned and is connected to a mask via two hoses; and
• 19th an embodiment of a respiratory protection device that filters both the fresh air to be inhaled and the exhaled air filter, wherein a filter unit comprises a mixer, is arranged on the back of the person concerned and is connected to a mask via two hoses.

The 1 shows schematically an embodiment of a respiratory protection device 100 who are the main components of a respirator 1 , a filter unit 2 , Fasteners 31 , 32 who have favourited the respirator 1 and the filter unit 2 connect, into the connecting elements 31 , 32 integrated storage container 130 , 140 , a cyclone separator 7th and a surge tank 150 includes.

The mask 1 includes an entrance 11 and an exit 12 . Basically, as in the 1 shown formed separately or alternatively by a common opening in the mask 1 be educated. The mask 1 is designed and provided for at least the mouth and nose of a person wearing the mask 1 wears to cover. Between the mask 1 and a mask volume is formed on the face of the person.

The mask 1 is designed as a tight-fitting mask, ie it comprises an edge that sits tightly on the face of the person wearing the mask. Otherwise, the protective function of the respiratory protection device 100 reduced by air flowing in and out of the mask.

The entrance 11 and the exit 12 can be assigned a valve to ensure that the inlet 11 opened and the exit 12 closed and on exhalation the entrance 11 closed and the exit 12 are open.

The filter unit 2 has an entrance 21st , an exit 22nd and another entrance 23 . Via the entrance 21st can fresh air into the filter unit 2 pour in. In the illustrated embodiment, but not necessarily, the input is used 21st also for the release of exhaled air. Alternatively, there is a separate output in the filter unit for this purpose 2 intended. The exit 22nd is with the fastener 31 connected, being through the filter unit 2 filtered fresh air through the outlet 22nd and the connecting element 31 the entrance 11 the mask 1 is fed. The further entrance 23 the filter unit 2 is about the fastener 32 with the exit 12 the mask 1 connected so that exhaled air through the connector 32 into the filter unit 2 flows.

The filter unit 2 forms a filter chamber 20th into which the inhaled and exhaled air flows. In the filter chamber 20th is a breathing air filter 4th arranged so that fresh air between the entrance 21st and the exit 22nd the breathing air filter 4th flow through and exhaled air between the further entrance 23 and the entrance 21st also the breathing air filter 4th must flow through. This ensures that the air is filtered not only with regard to the inhaled air, but also to the exhaled air flowing back into the environment.

The breathing air filter 4th is formed, for example, by a flat nonwoven that meets the requirements of protection levels FFP1, FFP2 or FFP3. The breathing air filter 4th filters droplets and aerosols that are in the fresh air supplied, and thus also viruses that are on such droplets and aerosols. The present invention is not limited to a specific type of breathing air filter.

The filter unit 2 also has a plurality of UV light sources 5 on, which are supplied with power via a power supply (not shown), for example a battery. The UV light sources 5 are arranged in such a way that they continuously describe the breathing air filter from both sides with UV light. These are the UV light sources 5 arranged and aligned in such a way that the UV radiation emitted by them hits the species protection filter 4th is directed. This kills viruses present in the filtered droplets and aerosols.

It can be provided that the UV light sources can be switched on and off via a switch (not shown) in order to save energy when the respiratory protection device 100 is not in use or when the filter does not need to be cleaned. Such a switch can also be used for other electrically operated components of the respiratory protection device 100 such as UV light sources for direct air disinfection (see 2 ) or an ozone generator (see 3 ) to switch on and off.

The UV light sources 5 are designed as UV LEDs, for example, which emit electromagnetic radiation in the UV-C band. The maximum of the emitted light intensity is preferably at a wavelength which is particularly suitable for killing viruses or bacteria to be killed. In the case of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, these are wavelengths of 265 nm or 275 nm. In alternative design variants, the UV light sources 5 generated for example by UV tubes. It can be provided that the UV light source 5 additionally generates ozone, the ozone generated in such a case in addition to cleaning the respiratory protection filter 4th contributes.

It can be provided that the UV light sources 5 emit non-isotropically and thus have a radiation characteristic that has a maximum radiation intensity in a certain radiation direction. The UV light sources 5 are each positioned in such a way that their radiation intensity is in the direction of the breathing air filter 4th is maximum, so the breathing air filter 4th is disinfected with high effectiveness by the UV radiation directed at it.

Due to the fact that in the filter chamber 20th both over the entrance 21st Fresh air as well as through the further entrance 23 Exhaled breathing air flows, forms the filter chamber 20th at the same time a mixer, the filter chamber 20th at the same time represents a mixing chamber. Valves control this 110 , 120 that at the exit 22nd or at the other entrance 23 are designed, the inflow of fresh air or exhaled air into the filter chamber 20th . The valves 110 , 120 can alternatively be close to the mask 1 in the respective connecting element 31 , 32 be arranged. The function of such a mixer is based on the 7th explained in detail.

The integration of a mixer in the filter 2 however, it is only optional. The filter chamber is used in alternative design variants 20th only the inclusion of a breathing air filter 4th and its cleaning by UV light sources 5 , the filter unit 2 only one exit 22nd to the mask 1 but no further input 23 through the exhaled air into the filter unit 2 flows. In such an exemplary embodiment, exhaled air is released from the mask 1 over the exit 12 exhaled directly into the environment.

In the initial example of the 1 , but not necessarily the entrance 21st the filter unit 2 the cyclone separator 7th in front of one entrance 71 and an exit 72 owns. Via the entrance 71 gets fresh air into the respirator 101 sucked in and exhaled air blown off. The exit 72 of the cyclone separator 7th is via another connecting element 33 with the entrance 21st the filter unit 2 connected.

The expansion tank 150 is via a gate valve 151 with the entrance 21st the filter unit 2 connected. The gate valve 151 is opened in recirculation mode if there is a gate valve 152 in the connecting element 33 is closed.

The fasteners 31 , 32 and also the connector 33 are designed as hoses, for example. Alternatively, rigid pipes or other means of air conduction can be used. Unless the filter unit 2 directly on the mask 1 is arranged, which is an example of the embodiment of the 15th is explained, the connecting element can also be merely a plug connection or a short socket or a fastening structure.

It is provided in the illustrated embodiment, but not necessarily, that in the connecting elements 31 , 32 a plurality of plates 81 are integrated that of the in the respective connecting element 31 , 32 flowing air are flowed through, wherein the plates are provided on one or both sides with a germicidal coating.

The in the guide elements 31 , 32 integrated storage container 130 , 140 absorb a multiple of the average respiratory volume of a person, for example three, four, five, six or seven times. Their function is based on the 10 explained in detail.

The functioning of the respiratory protection device 100 is as follows. Fresh air comes in through the entrance 71 of the cyclone separator 7th into the breathing apparatus 100 sucked in. This is done by the negative pressure that an inhalation process through the wearer of the mask 1 causes. Alternatively, a fan or the like can also be inserted into the connecting element, for example 33 or the connecting element 31 be integrated to generate an additional negative pressure. This can be useful for old people, for example, who only generate a slight negative pressure when they inhale. Such a ventilator can be switched in such a way that it only rotates when inhaling in order not to make it difficult to exhale.

The inhaled air is passed through the cyclone separator 7th a first cleaning, whereby through the cyclone separator 7th In particular, droplets present in the fresh air are deposited. The fresh air is typically passed through a cylindrical air duct in the cyclone separator. Deflection plates are attached in the air duct, which ensure a circular air flow. The centrifugal effect pushes droplets in the air against the outer wall. Some of the droplets are deposited on the wall of the air duct, which reduces the concentration of infectious material in the fresh air. The exhaled air also passes through the cyclone separator, with the exhaled air continuously cleaning the cyclone separator. This means that it is not necessary to continuously clean the cyclone separator, for example by means of a germicidal surface coating.

The one through the cyclone separator 7th pre-cleaned fresh air is now used by the filter unit 2 fed. There it undergoes further filtering in the breathing air filter 4th . This is done by the UV light sources 5 achieved that through the breathing air filter 4th filtered viruses or other infectious material is killed. This increases the longevity of the breathing air filter 4th before it has to be replaced, substantially. This also ensures that exhaled air reaches the breathing air filter 4th flows through in the opposite direction, is not contaminated with previously filtered out viruses.

Even in the event of a failure of the power supply for the UV radiation, the UV light sources 5 The protective function provided is still present and only slowly decreases because the respiratory protection filter is only slowly clogged with viruses.

As the filter unit 2 is also designed as a mixer, there is also a reduction in the proportion of viruses still present in the filtered air, as in relation to the 7th and in terms of the 10 is explained.

The air is now over the connector 31 the mask 1 fed. Due to the integrated plates with a germicidal coating 81 Existing viruses or other germs are further killed. The reservoir 130 , 140 additionally provide a buffer of fresh air, as in relation to the 10 is explained.

Exhaled air is passed through the connector 32 and the reservoir 140 back to the filter unit 2 and from this after flowing through the breathing air filter 4th over the exit 21st the filter unit 2 and the cyclone separator 7th blown out. The cleaning and filter mechanisms described also work in relation to the exhaled air, so that with the respiratory protection device 100 provided person is not only optimally protected against contamination that originates from the environment, but also the environment is optimally protected against contamination that originates from a sick person, for example infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

The 2-14 show design variants of individual components of the respiratory protection device described 100 . These components can according to the embodiment of 1 in Combination, but alternatively only be part of a respiratory protection device individually or in any sub-combinations.

It can further be provided that the in the 2-14 The individual components of the respiratory protection device shown form parts of a modular breathing protection system, the individual components being modular and, for example, being connectable to one another as desired via a plug connection or a screw connection. Depending on the degree of protection required in a current situation, several of these components can be combined to form a respiratory protection device suitable for the required degree of protection.

The 2 shows an embodiment in which in the filter unit 2 additional UV light sources 55 are integrated, but not as with the 1 are directed at a breathing air filter, but directly the air in the filter unit 2 irradiate. This is how the air gets into the filter unit 2 by the UV light sources 55 exposed to intense exposure to UV radiation. The wavelength of the light is adjusted to the primary disinfection target (e.g. viruses). For example, the maximum radiation intensity or radiation intensity is 265 nm. The emitted wavelength range can be selected differently for other purposes.

To increase the effectiveness of the disinfection it can be provided that the walls of the filter chamber 20th a mirror 201 exhibit.

An arrangement according to the 2 can also be used at other points on the breathing apparatus 100 be realized, for example in connecting elements designed as hoses. In the tubes 31 , 32 For example, UV LEDs are integrated.

The 3 shows an embodiment in which in the filter unit 2 on the one hand an ozone generator 61 and on the other hand an ozone filter 62 are integrated. That by the ozone generator 61 given ozone mixes with the air in the filter chamber 20th and kills viruses or other harmful substances it contains. After disinfection, the ozone passes through the ozone filter 62 removed again so as not to harm people. Catalytic filters, for example, which reduce the ozone content to harmless levels, are suitable for this purpose. The ozone filter 62 can in the breathing air filter 4th according to the 1 integrated or designed as a separate filter.

The ozone in the ozone generator 61 can for example be generated by UV light, for example by using a UV source that generates radiation of less than 200 nm. In principle, numerous mechanisms of ozone generation are possible. If further mechanisms of action are used in the respiratory protection device, it can be provided that the ozone generator 61 is only activated at certain times, for example if there is a suspicion of a highly infectious environment, while the respiratory protection device is operated ozone-free in normal operation. This further reduces the residual ozone that humans inhale.

The 4th shows in an enlarged representation the targeted irradiation of a breathing air filter 4th from both sides with UV radiation caused by UV light sources 5 is delivered. The 5 shows a variant in which the irradiation of the breathing air filter 4th UV radiation is only carried out from one side, with the side exposed to the virus being irradiated. This can reduce energy consumption.

The 6th shows an embodiment of a filter unit 2 who have favourited a plurality of breathing air filters 41 , 42 , 43 includes, each by UV light sources 5 targeted with UV radiation. The different breathing air filters 41 , 42 , 43 can be designed identically or differently. For example, one of the respiratory protection filters can be an ozone filter according to the embodiment of FIG 3 be.

The filter unit also contains 2 UV light sources 55 that according to the embodiment of 2 Achieve air purification through a direct effect of UV light on the air or the droplets and aerosols contained in it.

In the 7th is a mixer 9 shown. As for the 1 explained, such a mixer can be integral with the filter unit 2 be trained. However, this is not necessarily the case. Based on 7th becomes the mixer 9 hence than from the filter unit 2 independent component of the respiratory protection device described.

The mixer 9 has a mixing chamber 90 on (which in case the mixer 9 into the filter unit 2 is integrated, identical to the filter chamber 20th is). The mixing chamber 90 includes an entrance 91 through the fresh air or previously filtered air into the mixing chamber 90 can flow in. It also includes an exit 92 that has a fastener 31 with the entrance 11 the mask is connected (see 1 ). It also includes a further, second entrance 93 , where the output 12 the mask 1 via a connecting element 32 with the further entrance 93 connected is. The exit 92 or the connecting element 31 is a valve 110 and the further entrance 93 or the connecting element 32 is a valve 120 assigned. The valves 110 , 120 are designed in such a way that when a wearer inhales the mask via the entrance 91 Fresh air into the mixing chamber 90 When the wearer of the mask exhales, the air exhaled flows through the further inlet 32 into the mixing chamber 90 flows, and further on inhalation of the wearer of the mask in the mixing chamber 90 mixed air from the exit 92 the mixing chamber 90 via the connecting element 31 is transported to the mask.

The mixing chamber 90 is here as a bellows 95 formed, their volume being adjustable.

Through the mixer 9 can reduce the concentration of infectious material in the via the exit 92 inhaled air, as explained below. Here is the mixing chamber 90 dimensioned such that it has a volume which is in the range between 30% and 80% of the air volume of an average breath of a person being viewed. Depending on whether the person under consideration is a man, a woman, a child or a young person, the mixing chamber can have different volumes 90 be provided.

1. a) Die Mischkammer 90 weist ein Volumen aufweist, das 50 % des Volumens eines Atemzugs fasst.
2. b) Die Virenkonzentration in der Umgebungsluft ist 100/Atemzug.
3. c) 20% der eingeatmeten Viren verbleiben im Körper, 80% werden wieder ausgeatmet.

The following assumptions are made as an example:

1. a) The mixing chamber 90 has a volume that holds 50% of the volume of a breath.
2. b) The virus concentration in the ambient air is 100 / breath.
3. c) 20% of the viruses inhaled remain in the body, 80% are exhaled again.

• Beim Einatmen stammen 50% der eingeatmeten Luft aus dem Mischer, 50% kommt aus der Umgebungsluft. Beim Ausatmen bleiben 50% der ausgeatmeten Luft im Mischer, 50% gelangen nach außen.

If a person exposes himself to the assumed harmful concentration without a filter and without a mixer, he would per breath 20th Absorb viruses in the body. Using the mixer 9 however, the following picture emerges:

• When inhaling, 50% of the inhaled air comes from the mixer, 50% comes from the ambient air. When exhaling, 50% of the exhaled air remains in the mixer, 50% is released.

The following table shows one breath per line. The number of viruses in the mixer is listed in the left column "Number of mixers" and is zero at the beginning of the first breath. The next column ("Inhaled") lists the number of viruses that are inhaled in this breath. That is the number of viruses in the mixer plus 50% fresh air (that is 50 viruses in this example). The "Exhaled" column contains the number of exhaled viruses, which is assumed here to be 80% of the inhaled viruses. "Remaining mixer" is half of the exhaled viruses, the other half leaves the mixer to the outside. The column "absorbed" shows the number of viruses remaining in the body: breath Number of mixers Inhaled Exhaled Remaining mixer recorded 1 0 50 40 20th 10 2 20th 70 56 28 14th 3 28 78 62.4 31.2 15.6 ... ... ... ... ... ... n 100/3 250/3 200/3 100/3 50/3 = 16.6

After a few breaths, the final value (16.6 viruses ingested / breath) is reached. This shows that the mixer alone can achieve a certain reduction in the harmful concentration. This goes hand in hand with a somewhat reduced oxygen content in the inhaled air.

• „Anzahl Mischer“ = Verbleib Mischer aus dem vorangegangenen Atemzug, anfangs Null
• „Eingeatmet“ = 50 + Anzahl Mischer
• „Ausgeatmet“ = 0,8 * Eingeatmet
• „Verbleib Mischer“ = 0,5 * Ausgeatmet (dient als „Anzahl Mischer“ in der nächsten Zeile)
• „aufgenommen“ = Eingeatmet munis Ausgeatmet

For the sake of completeness, here is the list of formulas:

• "Number of mixers" = Remaining mixer from the previous breath, initially zero
• "Inhaled" = 50 + number of mixers
• "Exhaled" = 0.8 * inhaled
• "Remaining mixer" = 0.5 * exhaled (serves as "Number of mixer" in the next line)
• "Absorbed" = inhaled munis exhaled

The mixing ratio of exhaled air to fresh air can be determined by the volume of the mixer 9 can be set. If only 25% fresh air is to be inhaled with each breath, the mixer volume must be 75% of a breath. The volume of the mixer 90 can through the bellows 95 can be changed, for example via an adjusting screw.

The 8th clarifies the cleaning mechanism that the breathable air is brought into contact with germicidal surfaces. The breathing air is directed over the largest possible surface area, which is provided with a germicidal coating. According to the 8th the air flows through a stack of plates 81 , each provided with a germicidal coating and made of rigid or flexible material.

In the 8th are the panels 81 in the connecting element 31 , 32 integrated. However, it is only to be understood as an example. The plates 81 can also be arranged in other components of the respiratory protection device, for example the storage container 130 , 140 or the filter unit 2 .

The 9 shows an embodiment in which the plates 82 are designed as baffle plates that swirl the flowing air. Another alternative provides that, instead of plates, groups of germicidal coated flags are used, the fluttering of which swirls the air and leads to even better contact of the air with the germicidal surfaces.

The 10 shows an embodiment that uses the mixer of 9 with storage containers 130 , 140 according to the 1 combined. With regard to the structure of the mixer 9 will refer to the remarks on 7th pointed out. In addition, the air passes through it on the way to the mask 1 the reservoir 130 and exhaled air flows through the reservoir 140 .

The reservoir 130 , 140 can be designed as cavities, which are formed, for example, in a knapsack that is carried on the back. Alternatively, the storage containers 130 , 140 realized by long hoses, which are worn on the body like a belt, for example. A storage container 130 , 140 each can absorb a multiple of the volume of a breath. It comprises, for example, 3 to 8 times the volume of a breath.

1. a) Die Mischkammer 90 weist ein Volumen aufweist, das 50 % des Volumens eines Atemzugs fasst.
2. b) Die Virenkonzentration in der Umgebungsluft ist 100/Atemzug.
3. c) 20% der eingeatmeten Viren verbleiben im Körper, 80% werden wieder ausgeatmet.

The following example assumes that a storage container 5 Can take breaths. There are two storage tanks, as in the 10 shown. The following explains how the storage containers affect the contamination of the breathing air. It becomes the same consideration as with the 7th performed. The following assumptions are made as an example:

1. a) The mixing chamber 90 has a volume that holds 50% of the volume of a breath.
2. b) The virus concentration in the ambient air is 100 / breath.
3. c) 20% of the viruses inhaled remain in the body, 80% are exhaled again.

It is also assumed that the storage containers do not have any germicidal plates in order to make it clear what effect the larger storage volume alone has.

• Während des ersten Atemzugs wird kontaminierte Luft in den Mischer eingesogen, es braucht aber 5 Atemzüge, bis diese Luft die Maske bzw. den Mund der Person erreicht.
• Bei den Atemzügen 6-10 wird die Luft eingeatmet, die zu 50% aus der kontaminierten Außenluft und zu 50% aus der ausgeatmeten Luft aus dem Vorratsbehälter stammt.
• Atemzug 6 ist der erste Atemzug, der nun kontaminierte ausgeatmete Luft erzeugt. Nach weiteren 5 Atemzügen erreicht diese Luft den Mischer:

Atemzug Anzahl Mischer Eingeatmet Ausgeatmet Verbleib Mischer aufgenommen 1 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 4 0 0 0 0 0 5 0 0 0 0 0 6 0 50 40 0 10 7 0 50 40 0 10 8 0 50 40 0 10 9 0 50 40 0 10 10 0 50 40 0 10 11 0 50 40 20 10 12 20 50 40 20 10 13 20 50 40 20 10 14 20 50 40 20 10 15 20 50 40 20 10 16 20 50 40 20 10 17 20 70 56 20 14 18 20 70 56 20 14 19 20 70 56 20 14 20 20 70 56 20 14 21 20 70 56 28 14 22 28 70 56 28 14 ... ... ... ... ... ... n 100/3 250/3 200/3 100/3 50/3=16,6 If a person exposes himself to the assumed harmful concentration without a filter and without a mixer, he would per breath 20th Absorb viruses in the body. Using the mixer 9 and the reservoir 130 , 140 however, the following picture emerges:

• Contaminated air is sucked into the mixer during the first breath, but it takes 5 breaths for this air to reach the person's mask or mouth.
• With the breaths 6-10 the air is inhaled, 50% of which comes from the contaminated outside air and 50% from the exhaled air from the storage container.
• breath 6th is the first breath that now creates contaminated exhaled air. After another 5 breaths, this air reaches the mixer:

breath Number of mixers Inhaled Exhaled Remaining mixer recorded 1 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 4th 0 0 0 0 0 5 0 0 0 0 0 6th 0 50 40 0 10 7th 0 50 40 0 10 8th 0 50 40 0 10 9 0 50 40 0 10 10 0 50 40 0 10 11 0 50 40 20th 10 12 20th 50 40 20th 10 13 20th 50 40 20th 10 14th 20th 50 40 20th 10 15th 20th 50 40 20th 10 16 20th 50 40 20th 10 17th 20th 70 56 20th 14th 18th 20th 70 56 20th 14th 19th 20th 70 56 20th 14th 20th 20th 70 56 20th 14th 21st 20th 70 56 28 14th 22nd 28 70 56 28 14th ... ... ... ... ... ... n 100/3 250/3 200/3 100/3 50/3 = 16.6

The increase in the pollutant concentration takes place very much more slowly than in the embodiment of FIG 7th without storage container.

The use of storage containers 130 , 140 is also advantageous in a recirculation mode. In recirculation mode, no fresh air from the outside enters the device; the air present in the device merely circulates. The recirculation mode can only take place for a short time, as the oxygen content inside the device is constantly falling. If the reservoir 130 for the air to be inhaled 5 Includes breaths, and the reservoir 140 also includes 5 breaths for the exhaled air, then fresh air is available to the person for 5 breaths after switching to recirculation mode. The previously exhaled air then reaches the mask and is inhaled a second time.

The oxygen content of the air is around 20%, the exhaled air still contains 16% oxygen. Exhaled air can easily be inhaled again. In the example, another 5 breaths are available with air that has been exhaled once. A total of 10 breaths can be carried out in recirculation mode will. One breath takes about 6 seconds. In this example, the recirculation mode can be maintained for one minute without causing damage. Recirculation mode can be used to avoid a brief hazardous situation. A typical use case would be a strong cough from someone in close proximity. The respiratory protection device is switched to recirculation mode and the user has 60 seconds to leave the danger area and switch back to normal operation. For recirculation mode, the one in the 1 illustrated expansion tank 150 required, which can absorb the amount of air in one breath.

The 11 shows a further variant of a respiratory protection device 100 who have favourited a mask 1 , a mixer 9 and two storage containers 131 , 132 includes. In this variant are the storage containers 131 , 132 input or on the output side with the mixer 9 connected. So the mixer shows 9 an entrance 91 via the optionally provided cyclone separator 7th and the one storage container 131 Air is supplied. Next the mixer points 9 an exit 92 to the mask 1 on, with this variant using the same connecting element 31 both air to the breathing mask 1 as well as exhaled air from the breathing mask 1 to the mixer 9 is directed. Next the mixer points 9 a second exit 94 to the second reservoir 132 from which the exhaled air is released into the environment. In both storage containers 131 , 132 are each optional panels 81 arranged with germicidal surfaces.

This embodiment allows the mixer 9 to be arranged directly on the mask. The connecting element 31 is formed, for example, by a short nozzle or web. The reference to the 10 However, the explained mechanism of delaying the spread of pollutants does not apply.

In this variant, too, the mixer 9 into a filter unit 2 be integrated.

The 12 shows a rudimentary embodiment of a respiratory protection device, which only provides that in connecting elements 31 , 32 , through which air is inhaled or exhaled, plates with a germicidal coating are integrated. These can alternatively according to the 9 be designed as baffle plates or as coated flags.

In general, the fasteners 31 , 32 which are designed, for example, as hoses, can further improve the effect of air purification and air filtering by the respiratory protection device, whereby different mechanisms can be used for this purpose. Disinfection can be carried out using germicidal plates according to the 12 respectively. Furthermore, the volume of the hose can be used as a storage container according to the design of 11 serve. Another variant provides that the air through UV filters according to the 2 or by ozone according to the 3 in the fasteners 31 , 32 is additionally filtered, for example UV LEDs in the connecting elements 31 , 32 are integrated. The fasteners 31 , 32 Finally, in design variants, the air can also be guided and swirled in order to press aerosols against the outer wall via a cyclone separator effect and switch them off there. These different mechanisms can be used alone or in any combination in the connecting elements 31 , 32 be realized.

The 13 shows a further embodiment of a filter unit 2 which includes some of the components described above. So includes the filter unit 2 UV light sources 5 who direct their UV radiation onto a breathing air filter 4th judge. Other UV light sources 55 serve to irradiate the air. An ozone generator 61 can be integrated to generate ozone. Further cleaning and disinfection can be carried out using coated plates 81 and a cyclone separator 7th respectively.

In the embodiment of 13 only the air you breathe is filtered. The filter unit accordingly has 2 only one exit 22nd to the mask 1 on. Exhaled air is released from the mask 1 released directly into the environment.

In the embodiment of 14th is in the filter unit 2 a mixer is also integrated so that it is a combined filter / mixer unit. Accordingly, the filter chamber 20th or mixing chamber as bellows 95 designed and designed to be adjustable in volume. The filter unit 2 has according to the embodiment of 1 , 7th and 10 an exit 22nd to the mask and another entrance 23 from the mask on. The function is like in relation to that 1 and 5 explained.

The 15th shows an embodiment of a respiratory protection device 100 who have favourited a mask 1 , a filter unit 2 and optionally a cyclone separator 7th includes. The respiratory protection device 100 has a construction similar to a gas mask, the filter unit 2 directly with the mask 1 is connected without a Hose is provided for this. The same is true of the cyclone separator 7th directly to the filter unit 7th connected. The filter unit 2 does not contain a mixer in this exemplary embodiment.

Via the filter unit 2 air gets into the mask 1 . The mask 1 has in the entrance or air inlet 11 no valve. The outlet or air outlet 12 is to the environment. At the air outlet 12 prevents a valve (not shown separately), the unfiltered air through the outlet or air outlet 12 can get into the mask.

In the air outlet 12 the mask 1 is an adjustable gate valve 160 arranged, via which the size of the outlet or the air outlet opening can be adjusted, so that via the gate valve 160 the proportion of exhaled air flowing out is adjustable. The rest of the exhaled air flows back into the filter unit 2 .

Although there is no explicit mixer, mixing of exhaled and inhaled air can be achieved as follows. The flow resistance of the air outlet opening can be reduced by the gate valve 160 to be changed. If the flow resistance is high, some of the exhaled air will enter the filter unit 2 returned. With low flow resistance, almost all exhaled air is released. The mixing ratio can be adjusted via the gate valve 160 to be changed.

The variant of the 15th is characterized by the special feature that the mixing ratio is determined by the flow resistance in the air outlet 12 can be adjusted. A cleaning of the filter 2 can according to the 1 done by UV light sources.

The 16 shows an embodiment of a respiratory protection device in which this is basically the same as in the 15th is constructed, however, the filter unit 2 Via a connecting element designed as a hose 31 with the face mask 1 connected is. The mask 1 has no valve in the air inlet. Like in the 16 shown, the filter unit 2 be carried in a backpack, which for example also has a battery to power the filter unit 2 having. If the hose 31 Contains germicidal elements, a longer hose can be used, which is then guided back and forth in the backpack, for example. Without germicidal elements in the hose 31 is the length of the hose 31 no influence on the filter effect. The mixing principle is the same as with the respiratory protection device 15th : some of the exhaled air returns to the tube 31 . The amount of air in this regard depends on the flow resistance in the outlet 12 on.

Alternatively, the hose and the filter unit can be attached to the belt 210 be worn as in the 17th shown. If the hose 31 Contains germicidal elements, a longer hose can be used. For example, a long hose can be routed around the body. The mixing principle is the same as with the respiratory protection device 15th : some of the exhaled air returns to the tube 31 . The amount of air in this regard depends on the flow resistance in the outlet 12 on.

The 18th shows an embodiment in which two hoses 31 , 32 be used with the hose 32 serves to return exhaled air to the filter unit 2 respectively. The filter unit 2 can integrate a mixer at the same time. In the mask 1 is both at the entrance 11 as well as at the exit 12 one valve each integrated. It should be noted that the filter unit 2 different than in the embodiment of 1 a separate exit 24 for exhaled air. Valves allow air to pass through the inlet 21st flows in and the further exit 24 emanates.

By using long hoses 31 , 32 can have a high volume of tubing 31 , 32 to be provided. This is advantageous to according to the explanations 10 to slow down an increase in the concentration of pollutants and to provide a high air supply for recirculation mode. Provided a mixer in the filter unit 2 is integrated, the mixing ratio of exhaled and inhaled air can be determined via the volume of the mixer, according to the exemplary embodiments of FIG 10 and 14th .

Two modes of operation are possible in recirculation mode. According to one mode of operation, input 21st and exit 24 the filter unit 2 locked. Then an expansion tank, for example a bellows, is required. According to the other operating mode, the input 21st locked and is at the exit 24 an additional hose is connected, the volume of which is greater than one breath. When inhaling, air is drawn into this additional tube from the outside. However, this air cannot reach the mixer because the volume of the tube is greater than one breath. During the following exhalation, the air drawn in is expelled again.

In the embodiment of 18th is the filter unit 2 on a belt 210 attached to the person carrying. Alternatively, according to the 19th be arranged in a rucksack or knapsack.

It should be understood that the invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications and improvements can be made without departing from the concepts described herein. It is further pointed out that any of the features described can be used separately or in combination with any other features, provided that they are not mutually exclusive. The disclosure extends to and includes all combinations and subcombinations of one or more features described herein. If areas are defined, these include all values within these areas as well as all sub-areas that fall into one area.

QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Patent literature cited

• EP 1465705 A1 [0003]

Claims (29)

Breathing protection device (100), which has: - a mask (1) which can be placed on at least the mouth and nose of a person and has an inlet (11) and an outlet (12), - a filter unit (2) for cleaning air, which has a Has an inlet (21) through which fresh air can flow into the filter unit (2), and an outlet (22) through which filtered fresh air is provided as breathing air for the mask (1), and at least one first connecting element (31), which connects the output (22) of the filter unit (2) for providing breathing air with the input (11) of the mask (1), characterized in that the filter unit (2) has a breathing air filter (4) and at least one UV light source (5 ), the filter unit (2) being designed such that the UV radiation emitted by the UV light source (5) is directed onto the breathing air filter (4) in order to disinfect it. Device according to Claim 1 , characterized in that the at least one UV light source (5) is designed to continuously irradiate the breathing air filter (4) from one side or from both sides with UV light. Device according to Claim 1 or 2 , characterized in that the UV light source (5) is designed as a UV LED. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the UV light source (5) emits non-isotropically and is positioned such that its radiation intensity is maximum in the direction of the breathing air filter (4) or in the direction of a region of the breathing air filter (4). Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the filter unit (2) has at least one further UV light source (55) which is arranged and designed in such a way that it disinfects the air in the filter unit (2) with UV Irradiated light. Device according to Claim 5 , characterized in that the filter unit (2) comprises at least one filter chamber (20) through which fresh air can flow, the walls of the filter chamber (20) having a mirror coating (201). Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the filter unit (2) furthermore has an ozone generator (61) and an ozone filter (62), the ozone generator (61) being arranged and designed in such a way that the ozone generated by it is mixed with it the fresh air is mixed in the filter unit (2) to disinfect it, and the ozone filter (62) is arranged and designed in such a way that it then removes the ozone generated by the ozone generator (61) from the air again. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the respiratory protection device (100) further comprises a cyclone separator (7) which is connected upstream of the filter unit (2) and connected to the inlet (21) of the filter unit (2). Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the filter unit (2) and / or the at least one first connecting element (31) has surfaces (81) which are provided with a germicidal coating. Device according to Claim 9 , characterized in that a plurality of plates (81, 82) or flags through which air flows are integrated into the filter unit (2) and / or the at least one first connecting element (31), the plates (81, 82) or flags are provided with a germicidal coating on one or both sides. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the filter unit (2) furthermore has a second inlet (23) via which exhaled air can flow back into the filter unit (2), the second inlet (2) via a second connecting element (32) is connected to the output (12) of the mask (1). Device according to Claim 11 , characterized in that the respiratory protection device (100) further comprises a mixer (9) formed separately from the mask (1) and having a mixing chamber (90), wherein the mixer (9) is located downstream of the filter unit (2) or is integrated into the filter unit (2), and wherein the mixing chamber (90) has: - an inlet (91) through which fresh air can flow into the mixing chamber (90), - an output (92) which is connected to the input (11) of the mask (1), and - a second input (93), the output (12) of the mask (1) being connected to the second input (93) - the outlet (92) and the second inlet (93) being assigned valves (110, 120) in such a way that ◯ when a user of the device inhales fresh air through the inlet (91) into the mixing chamber (90), When the user of the device exhales, air flows through the second inlet (93) into the mixing chamber (90), ◯ when the user of the device inhales in the mixing chamber (90) mixed air, which consists of a mixture of fresh air and exhaled air, is transported via the output (92) to the input (11) of the mask (1). Device according to Claim 12 , characterized in that the mixing chamber (90) has a volume which is in the range between 30% and 80%, in particular in the range between 40% and 60% of the air volume of an average breath of a person being viewed. Device according to Claim 12 or 13 , characterized in that a first valve (110) is assigned to the outlet (92) and a second valve (120) is assigned to the second inlet (93) such that the first valve (110) opens when inhaling and closes when exhaling and the second Valve (120) closes when inhaling and opens when exhaling. Device according to one of the Claims 12 to 14th , characterized in that the volume of the mixing chamber (90) is adjustable. Device according to one of the Claims 11 to 15th , characterized in that a storage container (130, 140) is integrated into the first connecting element (31) and / or the second connecting element (32), which can hold a multiple of the average tidal volume of a person. Device according to Claim 16 , characterized in that the storage container (130, 140) is provided by at least one chamber integrated in the respective connecting element (31, 32) or by the volume of a connecting element (31, 32) designed as a hose. Device according to one of the Claims 11 to 17th , characterized in that the device furthermore has a compensation tank (150) for a circulating air operation, the compensation tank (150) being connected to the inlet (21) of the filter (2). Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the filter unit (2) is a unit which is constructed separately from the mask (1) and is connected to the mask (1) via tubes (31, 32). Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the filter unit (2) is connected directly to the mask (1). Device according to Claim 20 , as far as related to one of the Claims 1 to 10 , characterized in that the outlet (12) of the mask (1) is connected directly to the environment via an adjustable gate valve (160), via which the proportion of exhaled air flowing out can be adjusted. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the breathing air filter (4) is provided by a flat nonwoven material which meets the requirements of protection levels FFP1, FFP2 or FFP3. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the mask (1) is a tight-fitting mask. Breathing protection device (100) which has a mask (1) with an inlet (11) and an outlet (12), characterized by a mixer (9) formed separately from the mask (1) and having a mixing chamber (90), the mixing chamber (90) having: - an inlet (91) through which fresh air can flow into the mixing chamber (90), - an outlet (92), which is connected to the input (11) of the mask (1), and - a second input (93), the output (12) of the mask (1) being connected to the second input (93), - wherein the outlet (92) and the second inlet (93) valves (110, 120) are assigned in such a way that ◯ when a user of the device inhales through the inlet (91) fresh air flows into the mixing chamber (90), ◯ when the Air exhaled by the user of the device flows through the second inlet (93) into the mixing chamber (90), ◯ when the user of the device inhales in the mixing chamber (90) mixed air, which consists of a mixture of fresh air and exhaled air, via the outlet (92) is transported to the entrance (11) of the mask (1). Breathing protection modular system, which has: - A mask (1) which can be placed on at least the mouth and nose of a person and has an entrance (11) and an exit (12), - a breathing air filter, - A filter unit (2) which comprises a breathing air filter (4) and at least one UV light source (5), the filter unit (2) being designed in such a way that the UV radiation emitted by the UV light source (5) hits the breathing air filter (4) is directed to disinfect it, - A mixer (9) with a mixing chamber, which is designed in such a way that when a user inhales fresh air flows into the mixing chamber (90) via an inlet (91), and when the user exhales, exhaled air flows into the mixer via a second inlet (93) Mixing chamber (90) flows, and when the user inhales in the mixing chamber (90) mixed air, which consists of a mixture of fresh air and exhaled air, is transported via the outlet (92) to the inlet (11) of the mask (1), - A filter unit which has UV light sources (55) which is arranged and designed in such a way that it irradiates the air in the filter unit (2) with UV light in order to disinfect it, - A filter unit (2) which has an ozone generator (61) and an ozone filter (62), the ozone generator (61) being designed so that the ozone generated by it mixes with the fresh air in the filter unit (2) to disinfect it , and the ozone filter (62) is designed to then remove the ozone generated by the ozone generator (61) from the air again, - hoses, - All components of the modular respiratory protection system are modular and can be connected to one another via plug connections or screw connections in order to supply the mask (1) with filtered air via its inlet (11) and / or to remove exhaled air from the outlet (12) of the mask (1) . Respiratory protection modular system according to Claim 25 , characterized in that the modular system also has a modular expansion tank (150) for a circulating air operation. Respiratory protection modular system according to Claim 25 or 26th , characterized in that the modular system also has a modular cyclone separator (7). Breathing protection modular system according to one of the Claims 25 to 27 , characterized in that the modular system furthermore has hoses with surfaces (81) which are provided with a germicidal coating. Breathing protection modular system according to one of the Claims 25 to 28 , characterized in that the modular system furthermore has a storage container (130, 140) which holds a multiple of the average tidal volume of a person.

Images