AU2021101635A4

AU2021101635A4 - Anti-Pollution Mask for Respiratory Protection

Info

Publication number: AU2021101635A4
Application number: AU2021101635A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Kurniaty Limardi
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2020-04-02
Filing date: 2021-03-30
Publication date: 2021-05-27
Anticipated expiration: 2029-03-30

Abstract

Described herein is respiratory mask for a wearer, comprising: a mask body component for sealably covering the wearer's nose and mouth, the mask component provided with an actuable carrier means for carrying a vapour-emitting substance and allowing vapour from the vapour-emitting substance to be released when the carrier means is actuated in use; and an eye shield component for sealably covering the wearer's eyes, wherein the mask component and the eye shield component can be integrated into a single piece. Figure 1

Description

Figure 1

Regulation 3.2

AUSTRALIA

Patents Act 1990

COMPLETE SPECIFICATION INNOVATION PATENT A RESPIRATORY MASK FOR A WEARER COMPRISING AN ACTUATABLE CARRIER MEANS FOR CARRYING A VAPOUR EMITTING SUBSTANCE

The following statement is a full description of this invention, including the best method of performing it known to me:

A RESPIRATORY MASK FOR A WEARER COMPRISING AN ACTUATABLE

CARRIER MEANS FOR CARRYING A VAPOUR- EMITTING SUBSTANCE Field of the Invention

[1] The present invention relates to masks and in particular to an anti-pollution or a respiratory mask for a wearer comprising an actuatable carrier means for carrying a vapour emitting substance.

[2] The invention has been developed primarily for use with respiratory masks and will be described hereinafter with reference to this application. In particular, the mask is for use in the healthcare sector and first responders. Additionally, the mask is used as a travel mask to provides a solution for the travel market and daily commuters. However, it will be appreciated that the invention is not limited to this particular field of use.

Background of the Invention

[3] Respiratory masks are frequently used to protect the wearer from exposure to undesirable bacteria in the air, and/or to mask or deodorize unpleasant odours. Such masks are also useful when the wearer is suffering from a transmittable illness such as influenza, so as to protect others in the vicinity of the wearer from exposure to bacteria exhaled by the wearer. However, such masks when worn continuously tend to deteriorate over time, thereby losing their effectiveness for filtering out or destroying such harmful bacteria, or masking or deodorizing such unpleasant odours. Indeed, in situations where the wearer is unable to safely remove and replace the mask, the continued exposure to such bacteria or odours could prove to be unbearable, and in the worst case, harmful, to the wearer. Indeed, when such masks are continuously worn over time, the wearer may also suffer from fatigue or other lethargic effects.

[4] The present invention seeks to provide a respiratory mask for a wearer comprising an actuatable carrier means for carrying a vapour-emitting substance, which will overcome or substantially ameliorate at least some of the deficiencies of the prior art, or to at least provide an alternative.

[5] It is to be understood that, if any prior art information is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the information forms part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country.

Summary of the Invention

[5a] In a first aspect, the invention provides a respiratory mask for a wearer, comprising:

a mask body component for sealably covering the wearer's nose and mouth, the mask component provided with an actuable carrier means for carrying a vapour-emitting substance and allowing vapour from the vapour-emitting substance to be released when the carrier means is actuated in use; and an eye shield component for sealably covering the wearer's eyes, wherein the mask component and the eye shield component are integrated into a single piece.

[5b] In a second aspect, the invention provides a vapour-emitting substance to be supported by a vapour-emitting substance support means adapted to be mounted to a respiratory mask for a wearer according to the first aspect, wherein vapour from the vapour-emitting substance is selectively releasable in use.

[5c] In a third aspect, the invention provides a composition for a wet wipe to be inserted into an actuatable carrier means of a respiratory mask for a wearer as defined in the first aspect, comprising:

at least one vapour-emitting substance according to the second aspect; and a carrier medium for carrying at least one vapour-emitting substance.

[5d] In a fourth aspect, the invention provides a wet wipe adapted to be inserted into an actuatable carrier means of a respiratory mask for a wearer as defined in the first aspect, comprising:

a support material for supporting a vapour-emitting substance; and a composition as defined in the third aspect.

[5d] In a fifth aspect, the invention provides a respiratory mask for a wearer as defined in the first aspect, comprising:

an actuatable carrier means for carrying a vapour-emitting substance and allowing vapour from the vapour-emitting substance to be released in use.

[5e] In a sixth aspect, the invention provides a respiratory mask assembly for a wearer as defined in the first aspect, the assembly comprising:

a mask body; and an actuatable carrier means for carrying a vapour-emitting substance, the mask body being adapted to receive the carrier means in use, wherein the carrier means allows vapour from the vapour-emitting substance to be released in use.

[5f] The mask of the invention covers prior art mask deficiencies to an otherwise loose fit, non-effective surgical face mask, constructed from non-woven material, commonly seen worn by the mass population.

[5g The mask of the invention provides an integrated face mask to also act as protection for the wearer's eyes from dangerous airborne substances and other pollutants.

[5h] As an alternative option, the mask can be used without the integrated eye wear or the mask design can be used independently to cover mouth & nose only.

[5i] Preferably, the mask of the invention provides a solution to the reuse of the abundant plastic waste discarded around the world, by using recycled plastic materials in components.

[5j] The present mask provides a longer lasting alternative to the current single use, throwaway non-woven material. In particular, the mask provides the wearer an economical purchase option to own and retain a long lasting item and more durable than the current single use, throwaway non-woven material face mask solution common in the market.

[5k The present mask reduces litter strewn in streets around the world of the current single use, throwaway non-woven material face mask and its associated bacterial substances when the worn item is discarded.

[51] The mask provides a solution for replaceable mask filters, with mass market affordability and preferably allows for a selection of various scented mask filters, indigenous to a particular country's native plant(s).

[5m] The mask provides an effective barrier to antimicrobial substances and everyday city pollution.

[5n] The present mask disrupts technology to previous known use of the plastic oxygen mask in its current form, which up until now has had specific use on immobile or bed ridden patients.

[5o] The mask can be manufactured with consideration given to the customising of the tooling and its design, to include the desired package size, pressed and stamped on all four sides for rigidness, impregnated with slow drying gel on a double folded biodegradable and compostable, hypoallergenic material.

[5p Furthermore, antimicrobial polymers and plastic additives can be used as an active ingredient effective against antimicrobial growth or accumulation on the mask surface.

[5q] Furthermore, the mask can include one or more of: anti fog and anti-scratch additives in the eye wear. Preferably, the mask is also fitted with two attachment or retaining bands on either side of the mask which join to form one piece for fastening to back of head.

[5r] Furthermore, the retaining band configuration may also include clip-on tabs each side for the provision of a hair net, or similar head wear attachment, so as to provide safety helmet wearing on-demand motorcycle taxi passenger's barrier protection from head lice and/or other insect infestation, common to tropical countries and found in helmets from the multiple use sharing of helmet from passenger to passenger.

[5s] The benefit of abundant Antimicrobial essential oils, otherwise referred to as Medicinal and Aromatic plants (MAPS) are wide spread and indigenous to the different continents, offering great potential as they effectively destroy several bacterial, fungal and viral pathogens.

[5t] Such known examples of Antimicrobial and aromatic plants native to certain regions, include but are not limited to the following: Camphor/China; Clove/Indonesia; Lamiaceae/South America; Sage/Noth America; Gum Arabica/Africa; Thymol/Europe; Cinnamon/Sri Lanka & India; Cajuput/Australasia; Peppermint/Iran; Date Palm/Israel & The Middle East.

[6] Described herein is a respiratory mask for a wearer, comprising:

- an actuable carrier means for carrying a vapour-emitting substance and allowing vapour from the vapour-emitting substance to be released when the carrier means is actuated in use.

[7] Advantageously, vapour from the vapour-emitting substance is released by selectively actuating the carrier means.

[8] Advantageously, the wearer can selectively actuate the carrier means to release vapour from the vapour-emitting substance when the wearer is in areas where there is a high risk of exposure to infection or strong odour.

[9] Preferably, the carrier means is selectively actuatable between a release configuration to allow vapour to exit from the carrier means, and a non-release configuration to prevent vapour exiting from the carrier means.

[9a] Preferably, the respiratory mask further comprises a mask body, the carrier means being supported substantially within the mask body, wherein the mask body has an inner portion facing the wearer and an out portion facing away from the user.

[10] Preferably, the wearer can selectively actuate the carrier means to release vapour from the vapour-emitting substance without needing to remove the respiratory mask, thereby protecting the wearer against exposure to infection or strong odour.

[11]Alternatively, the wearer can selectively actuate the carrier means to release vapour from the vapour-emitting substance before putting on the respiratory mask. In some embodiments, where for example the actuating means is a cover or container for the varpour-emitting substance, the actuatable means, for example, can be one or more tearable, detatchable or a rupturable carrier means provided in the body of the mask.

[12]For example, the one or more tearable, detatchable or a rupturable carrier means can be provided on an inner side of the mask body facing the wearer and on an outer side of the mask facing away from the wearer. Before putting on the mask, the inner actuatable means can be activated, the mask can be put on before the outer actuatable means is activated.

[13]Advantageously, vapour from the vapour-emitting substance is only released when the carrier means is selectively actuated to the release configuration.

[14] Preferably, the carrier means comprises a tearable, detachable or a rupturable carrier means.

[15] Advantageously, vapour from the vapour-emitting substance is released by tearing, rupturing or detaching the carrier means.

[16] Preferably, the respiratory mask further comprises a rupturing means for aiding rupture, detachment or tearing of the carrier means.

[17] Preferably, vapour from the vapour-emitting substance is released by rupturing the carrier means using the rupturing means, by tearing the rupturing means or by detaching the rupturing means.

[18] Preferably, the rupturing means, detachable means or the tearable means is connected to one or more parts of the carrier means.

[18a] Advantageously, vapour from the vapour-emitting substance is released by rupturing or by detaching ir by tearing the carrier means using the means connected thereto.

[18b] Preferably, the respiratory mask further comprises a mask body, the carrier means being supported substantially within the mask body.

[19] Advantageously, the carrier means being supported substantially within the mask body reduces the risk of the carrier means being actuated accidentally.

[22] Preferably, the respiratory mask further comprises an outlet means for allowing vapour to exit from the carrier means in use.

[23] Advantageously, vapour from the vapour-emitting substance is released via the outlet means when the carrier means is actuated in use.

[24] Preferably, the outlet means comprises at least one membrane which allows vapour to pass therethrough.

[25] Advantageously, vapour from the vapour-emitting substance is released via the at least one membrane when the carrier means is actuated in use.

[26] Preferably, the respiratory mask further comprises a mask body, the mask body defining the outlet means to allow vapour to pass therethrough.

[27] Advantageously, vapour from the vapour-emitting substance is released from the mask body defined outlet means when the carrier means is actuated in use.

[28] Preferably, the carrier means comprises a sleeve having a rupturable, detatchable or tearable seal, the sleeve being rupturable along the rupturable seal.

[29] Advantageously, vapour from the vapour-emitting substance is released by rupturing, detatching or tearing the sleeve along the rupturable seal in use.

[30] Preferably, the rupturing, detatcting or tearing means comprises at least two rupturing detatcting or tearing members for rupturing detatcting or tearing the sleeve in use.

[31] Preferably, the sleeve at least two rupturing detatcting or tearing members being connected to the at least front portion of the sleeve and a rear portion of the sleeve.

[32] Advantageously, vapour from the vapour-emitting substance is released by rupturing detatcting or tearing the sleeve along the rupturable detatctable or tearable seals using at least two rupturing members in use.

[33] Preferably, the respiratory mask further comprises a mask body having at least one aperture, the at least two rupturing detatcting or tearing members extending outwardly therefrom.

[34] Advantageously, vapour from the vapour-emitting substance is released by actuating the carrier means using the at least two rupturing detatcting or tearing member external of the mask body in use

[35] Preferably, at least a portion of the mask body is manufactured from an air permeable material.

[36] Advantageously, the at least portion of the mask body allows the wearer to inhale air through the respiratory mask in use

[37] Preferably, the carrier means is vapour-impermeable until actuated to release vapour therefrom.

[38] Advantageously, the carrier means being vapour-impermeable reduces the risk of vapour from the vapour-emitting substance being released until the carrier means has been actuated.

[39] Preferably, the respiratory mask further comprises a vapour-emitting substance received in the carrier means.

[40] Preferably, the vapour-emitting substance is in the form of a liquid, an oil, a gel, a gas or a solid.

[41] Advantageously, the vapour-emitting substance received in the carrier means may take the form of a liquid, an oil, a gel, a gas or a solid.

[42] Preferably, the carrier means comprises a vapour-emitting substance support means for supporting the vapour-emitting substance.

[43] Preferably, the vapour-emitting substance support means comprises a wet wipe.

[44] Preferably, the vapour-emitting substance support means comprises a support material selected from a group of support materials comprising: a paper, a wood, a woven material, a nonwoven material, or any combination thereof.

[45] Preferably, the respiratory mask further comprises a mask body being proportioned to fit over a nose and a mouth of the wearer in use.

[46] Advantageously, the mask body being proportioned to cover the nose and mouth enables the vapour from the vapour-emitting substance to be directed to the respiratory and olfactory organs when the carrier means is actuated in use.

[47] Preferably, the mask body covers at least the nose of the wearer and vapour released from the vapour-emitting substance in use is communicated to the nose.

[48] Preferably, the mask body covers at least the mouth of the wearer and vapour released from the vapour-emitting substance in use is communicated to the mouth.

[49] Preferably, the mask body is further proportioned to fit over a chin of the wearer.

[50] Advantageously, the mask body being proportioned to cover the chin reduces the risk of the vapour from the vapour-emitting substance leaking from the sides of the mask body in use.

[51] Preferably, the respiratory mask further comprises mounting means adapted to secure the mask body in place on the wearer's head in use.

[52] Advantageously, the mask body is secured in place on the wearer's head in use via the mounting means.

[53] Preferably, the mounting means comprises at least one strap attachable at either end to the mask body.

[54] Advantageously, the mask body is secured in place on the wearer's head in use via the at least one strap.

[55] Preferably, the at least one strap is removably attachable at either end to the mask body.

[56] Preferably, the at least one strap is adjustable to secure the mask body fitting according to a preference of the wearer.

[57] Advantageously, the at least one strap being adjustable ensures that the mask body can be secured in place on any size head in use.

[57a] Advantageously, the adjustable strap configuration may also include clip-on tabs each side for the provision of a hair net, or similar head wear attachment.

[58] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a respiratory mask for a wearer, the respiratory mask comprising a vapour-emitting substance, wherein vapour from the vapour-emitting substance is selectively releasable in use.

[59] Advantageously, vapour from the vapour-emitting substance is selectively releasable in use.

[60] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a vapour-emitting substance to be supported by a vapour-emitting substance support means adapted to be mounted to a respiratory mask for a wearer, wherein vapour from the vapour-emitting substance is selectively releasable in use.

[61] Advantageously, the vapour-emitting substance can be mounted to the respiratory mask in use.

[62] Preferably, the vapour-emitting substance is medicated.

[63] Advantageously, the vapour-emitting substance affords a wearer of the respiratory mask with a medicated vapour to have an uplifting effect on the mind.

[64] Advantageously, the vapour-emitting substance affords a wearer of the respiratory mask with a medicated vapour to have an effect of increased alertness.

[65] Advantageously, the vapour-emitting substance affords a wearer of the respiratory mask with a medicated vapour to unblock a wearer's blocked nasal passages so as to ease breathing.

[66] Advantageously, the vapour-emitting substance affords a wearer of the respiratory mask with a medicated vapour to soothe a wearer's sore throat so as to ease breathing, or otherwise, provide the wearer relief from other respiratory problems.

[67] Preferably, the vapour-emitting substance is an anti-bacterial agent.

[68] Advantageously, the vapour-emitting substance affords a wearer of the respiratory mask with an anti-bacterial vapour to reduce the bacterial population in the wearer's exhaled breath in use.

[69] Preferably, the vapour-emitting substance is an anti-microbial agent.

[70] Preferably, the vapour-emitting substance is an anti-viral agent.

[71] Preferably, the vapour-emitting substance comprises an essential oil selected from the group of essential oils comprising: menthol oil, eucalyptus oil, tea tree oil, lemon oil, lavender oil, or any combination thereof.

[72] Advantageously, vapour emitted from the vapour-emitting substance affords a wearer of the respiratory mask with a pleasant scent to mask unpleasant odours or revitalise the wearer.

[73] Preferably, the vapour-emitting substance comprises a combination of eucalyptus oil and lavender oil.

[74] Preferably, the combination of eucalyptus oil and lavender oil is in the ratio 1:1.

[75] Preferably, the combination of eucalyptus oil and lavender oil is in the ratio 7:3.

[76] Preferably, the vapour-emitting substance comprises tea tree oil.

[77] Preferably, the vapour-emitting substance comprises a combination of eucalyptus oil, lavender oil and tea tree oil.

[78] Preferably, the combination of eucalyptus oil, lavender oil and tea tree oil is in a 14:3:3 ratio.

[79] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a composition for a wet wipe adapted to be inserted into an actuatable carrier means of a respiratory mask for a wearer, comprising:

at least one vapour-emitting substance as defined in any one of the preceding paragraphs; and

a carrier medium for carrying the at least one vapour-emitting substance.

[80] Preferably, the at least one vapour-emitting substance comprises from about 0.1 wt.

% to about 10.0 wt. % essential oil.

[81] Preferably, the at least one vapour-emitting substance comprises from about 0.2 wt.

% to about 7.Owt. % essential oil.

[82] Preferably, the carrier medium comprises from about 10.0 wt. % to about 85.0 wt.

% organic solvent.

[83] Preferably, the organic solvent comprises at least one alcohol.

[84] Preferably, the at least one alcohol is selected from the group of alcohols comprising: ethanol, isopropanol, glycerol, propylene glycol, or any combination thereof.

[85] Preferably, the carrier medium comprises from about 0.1 wt. % to about 10.0 wt. %

wetting agent.

[86] Preferably, the carrier medium comprises from about 0.2 wt. % to about 7.0 wt. %

wetting agent.

[87] Preferably, the wetting agent is a surfactant.

[88] Preferably, the surfactant is selected from the group of surfactants comprising: amphoteric surfactants, non-ionic surfactants, anionic surfactants, or any combination thereof.

[89] Preferably, the carrier medium comprises from about 0.1 wt. % to about 2.5 wt. %

preservative.

[90] Preferably, the preservative is DMDMH hydantoin.

[91] Preferably, the carrier medium comprises from about 0.5 wt. % to about 2.0 wt.

% emollient.

[92] Preferably, the carrier medium comprises from about 0.75 wt. % to about 1.5 wt.

% emollient.

[93] Preferably, the emollient is a polyethoxylated lanolin.

[94] Preferably, the carrier medium comprises at least about 10.0 wt. % water.

[95] Preferably, the carrier medium comprises a pH adjusting agent.

[96] Preferably, the amount of pH adjusting agent in the carrier medium is effective to provide a pH in the range of 5.0 to 7.5.

[97] Preferably, the amount of pH adjusting agent in the carrier medium is effective to provide a pH in the range of 5.5 to 7.2.

[98] Preferably, the amount of pH adjusting agent in the carrier medium is effective to provide a pH in the range of 6.0 to 7.0.

[99] Preferably, the pH adjusting agent is selected from the group of pH adjusting agents comprising: an inorganic hydroxide, a weak acid, or any combination thereof.

[100] Preferably, the carrier medium comprises less than about 75.0 wt. % humectant.

[101] Preferably, the carrier medium comprises less than about 5.0 wt. % thickener.

[102] Preferably, the carrier medium comprises less than about 1.0 wt. % soothing agent.

[103] Described herein is a wet wipe adapted to be inserted into an actuatable carrier means of a respiratory mask for a wearer, comprising:

a support material for supporting a vapour-emitting substance; and

a composition as defined in any one of the preceding paragraphs, based on a dry weight of the wet wipe.

[104] Preferably, the support material is selected from a group of support materials comprising: a paper, a wood, a woven material, a nonwoven material, or any combination thereof.

[105] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an actuatable carrier means for a respiratory mask, the carrier means being adapted for carrying a vapour- emitting substance and allowing vapour from the vapour-emitting substance to be released when the carrier means is actuated in use.

[106] Advantageously, vapour from the vapour-emitting substance can be selectively released from the carrier means as desired.

[107] Described herein is a respiratory mask for a wearer, comprising:

[108] Preferably, respiratory mask further comprises a mask body, the carrier means being supported substantially within the mask body.

[109] The mask body has an inner portion and an outer portion.

[110] Preferably, the respiratory mask further comprises an outlet means for allowing vapour to exit from the carrier means in use.

[111] Preferably, the outlet means comprises at least one membrane which allows vapour to pass therethrough.

[112] Preferably, the respiratory mask further comprises a mask body, the mask body defining the outlet means to allow vapour to pass therethrough.

[113] Preferably, at least a portion of the mask body is manufactured from an air permeable material

[114] Preferably, the respiratory mask further comprises a vapour-emitting substance received in the carrier means.

[115] Preferably, the vapour-emitting substance is in the form of a liquid, an oil, a gel, a gas or a solid.

[116] Preferably, the carrier means comprises a vapour-emitting substance support means for supporting the vapour-emitting substance.

[117] Preferably, the vapour-emitting substance support means comprises a wet wipe.

[118] Preferably, the vapour-emitting substance support means comprises a support material selected from a group of support materials comprising: a paper, a wood, a woven material, a nonwoven material, or any combination thereof.

[119] Preferably, the respiratory mask further comprises a mask body being proportioned to fit over a nose and a mouth of the wearer in use.

[120] Preferably, the mask body covers at least the nose of the wearer and vapour released from the vapour-emitting substance in use is communicated to the nose.

[121] Preferably, the mask body covers at least the mouth of the wearer and vapour released from the vapour-emitting substance in use is communicated to the mouth.

[122] Preferably, the mask body is further proportioned to fit over a chin of the wearer.

[123] Preferably, the respiratory mask further comprises mounting means adapted to secure the mask body in place on the wearer's head in use.

[124] Preferably, the mounting means comprises at least one strap attachable at either end to the mask body.

[125] Preferably, the at least one strap is removably attachable at either end to the mask body.

[126] Preferably, the at least one strap is adjustable to secure the mask body fitting according to preference of the wearer.

[127] Described herein is a respiratory mask assembly for a wearer, the assembly comprising:

a mask body; and

an actuatable carrier means for carrying a vapour-emitting substance, the mask body being adapted to receive the carrier means in use, wherein the carrier means allows vapour from the vapour-emitting substance to be released in use.

[128] Advantageously, vapour from the vapour-emitting substance is released by actuating the carrier means.

[129] Preferably, the carrier means comprises a rupturable, tearable or detatchable carrier means.

[130] Preferably, the respiratory mask assembly further comprises a rupturing, tearing or detatching means for rupturing the carrier means.

[131] Preferably, the rupturing, tearing or detatching means is connected to the carrier means.

[132] Preferably, the carrier means comprises a vapour-emitting substance support means for supporting the vapour-emitting substance.

[133] Preferably, the vapour-emitting substance support means comprises a wet wipe.

[134] Preferably, the vapour-emitting substance support means comprises a support material selected from a group of support materials comprising: a paper, a wood, a woven material, a nonwoven material, or any combination thereof.

[135] The mask body comprises an inner portion and an outer portion.

[136] Preferably, the respiratory mask assembly further comprises an outlet means for allowing vapour to exit from the carrier means in use.

[137] Preferably, the outlet means comprises at least one membrane which allows vapour to pass therethrough.

[138] Preferably, the mask body defines the outlet means to allow vapourto pass therethrough.

[139] Preferably, the carrier means comprises a sleeve having a rupturable seal, the sleeve being rupturable along the rupturable seal.

[140] Preferably, the respiratory mask further comprises a rupturing means having at least two rupturing, detaching or tearing members for rupturing the sleeve in use.

[141] In one embodiment a detaching or tearing member is preferred.

[142] Preferably, the mask body comprises at least one aperture, the at least one rupturing member extending outwardly therefrom.

[143] Preferably, at least a portion of the mask body is manufactured from an air permeable material

[144] Preferably, the carrier means is vapour-impermeable until actuated to release vapour therefrom.

[145] Preferably, the respiratory mask assembly further comprises a vapour-emitting substance received in the carrier means.

[146] Preferably, the vapour-emitting substance is in the form of a liquid, an oil, a gel, a gas or a solid.

[147] Preferably, the carrier means comprises a vapour-emitting substance support means for supporting the vapour-emitting substance.

[148] Preferably, the vapour-emitting substance support means comprises a wet wipe.

[149] Preferably, the vapour-emitting substance support means comprises a support material selected from a group of support materials comprising: a paper, a wood, a woven material, a nonwoven material, or any combination thereof.

[150] Preferably, the mask body is proportioned to fit over a nose and a mouth of the wearer in use.

[151] Preferably, the mask body is proportioned to fit over at least a nose of the wearer and vapour released from the vapour-emitting substance in use is communicated to the nose.

[152] Preferably, the mask body is proportioned to fit over at least a mouth of the wearer and vapour released from the vapour-emitting substance in use is communicated to the mouth.

[153] Preferably, the mask body is further proportioned to fit over a chin of the wearer.

[154] Preferably, the respiratory mask assembly further comprises mounting means adapted to secure the mask body in place on the wearer's head in use.

[155] Preferably, the mounting means comprises at least one strap attachable at either end to the mask body.

[156] Preferably, the at least one strap is removably attachable at either end to the mask body.

[157] Preferably, the at least one strap is adjustable to secure the mask body fitting according to a preference of the wearer.

[158] Other aspects of the invention are also disclosed.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[159] Notwithstanding any other forms which may fall within the scope of the present invention, a preferred embodiment of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying examples and drawings in which:

[160] The images show representation of a respiratory mask in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, including mask body and eye shield;

[161] The images show a perspective view of the respiratory mask mounted to the head of a wearer; and

[162] The images show a side views (shown in partial cross-section) of the respiratory mask.

Description of Embodiments

[163] It should be noted in the following description that like or the same reference in different embodiments denote the same or similar features.

[164] The images show a respiratory mask for a wearer that is configured to allow vapour from a vapour-emitting substance to be released in the vicinity of the wearer's respiratory and/or olfactory organs when actuated by the wearer in use.

[165] As shown in the images, the respiratory mask comprises a mask body, having a generally bowl-like shape with a peripheral edge, which is proportioned so as to fit over the respiratory organs, being the nose and mouth, of the wearer in use. The mask body is manufactured from a suitable material such as a medical grade Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE), or similar.

[166] As shown in the images, the respiratory mask further comprises an outlet means in the form of a vapour-permeable membrane which is integrally molded in the mask body and proportioned to cover at least the nose and mouth of the wearer in use and able to filter undesirable particulate matter and bacteria from the air.

[166a] In this embodiment, the essential oil impregnated membrane is selected on the basis of its particle filtration efficiency (PFE) and bacteria filtration efficiency (BFE) being high enough to filter out such particulate matter and bacteria, respectively, to a high degree. The PFE and BFE are ideally greater than 95%.

[167] As shown in the images, the mask body comprises a top portion eye shield, and an integrated bottom mask body. The bottom portion of the mask body is shaped so as to conform to the contour of the nose of the wearer in use, while the top portion is proportioned to fit over the eyes of the wearer.

[168] The mask body comprises one aperture located over the mouth and nose and two opposing side exhalation valves, with lightweight replaceable covers.

[169] The respiratory mask further comprises mounting means in the form of at least one two strap for securing the mask body to place on the wearer's head in use. The strap is generally elongate and has respective first ends and respective second ends attached to a corresponding side portion of the mask body.

[169a] As shown in the images, the two side portions each comprise a pair of apertures . The first end and second end of strap are connected to the apertures, respectively, on one side of the mask body, and the first end and second end of the strap are connected to the apertures respectively on the other side of the mask body, so as to form at least one loop for looping around a corresponding ear of the wearer in use.

[170] Referring specifically to the images, the respiratory mask further comprises an actuable carrier means in the form of a sleeve supported and integral within the mask body. The sleeve having a generally rectangular-shaped body, comprises a detatchable portion, such as a tear off or peel off package with vapour-impermeable material correspondingly shaped and sealed together around their mating peripheries as by heat sealing, to form a closed envelope with a closed peripheral seal region or edge.

[171] The sleeve comprises a top portion, an opposing bottom portion, and first and second opposing end portions, respectively, disposed generally between the top and bottom portions. The sleeve further comprises a rupturable seal in the form of a tear or peel off section on each side of the package. The tear or peel off line is oriented generally transverse to a longitudinal axis of the sleeve and extends along the sleeve, and set back approximately mm from each side edge.

[171a] To prevent undesirable leakage or evaporation of the contents within the sleeve through the perforations of the tear line prior to rupturing of the seal, a hermetically applied sheet or tape is arranged over the perforation so as to provide a hermetic seal.

[172] As shown in images, the sleeve is supported within the mask body by virtue of a frame to hold and maintain the sleeve within the aperture. The sleeve, being of a generally rectangular-shape, comprises a top portion, an opposing bottom portion, and two opposing front and rear portions disposed between the top portion and the bottom portion. Once the sleeve is placed in position, wearer can tear or peel off the rear portion of the sleeve outwardly from within the mask before placing over head of the wearer and peel off the front portion outwardly once the mask is placed on the head of the wearer.

[174] As shown in the images, the respiratory mask further comprises a vapour-emitting substance disposed within the interior of the sleeve. In this embodiment, the vapour-emitting substance is provided in the form of a combination of one or more essential oils which are capable of emitting vapour under ambient conditions. The essential oils are supported by a vapour-emitting substance support means provided in the form of a suitable support material such as a wet wipe or moist towel, which is impregnated with the essential oils and then inserted into the interior of the sleeve. The wet wipe may be manufactured from a woven or non-woven material, provided the material is able to be impregnated with the essential oil and is capable of entrapping particulate matter such as airborne particles from pollution or airborne bacteria or viruses and other undesirable matter including pollen and dust mites. In this embodiment, the wet wipe material is selected on the basis of its particle filtration efficiency (PFE) and bacteria filtration efficiency (BFE) being high enough to filter out such particulate matter and bacteria with the overall PFE and BFE of the respiratory mask enhanced without impacting on the wearer's ability to breathe.

[175] The vapour-emitting substance may be selected from a wide range of essential oils according to the desire or necessity of the wearer. The essential oil may be selected according to whether the wearer desires to mask or deodorize an odour, requires medication to assist them with their breathing, or desires to reduce the possibility of inhaling or exhaling harmful microbes or bacteria so as to avoid becoming infected or infecting others.

For example, in the case where the wearer is experiencing restricted respiratory or olfactory function, the essential oil may be selected from any one of the following group of essential oils comprising: menthol oil, eucalyptus oil, tea tree oil, lemon oil, lavender oil, or any combination thereof, so as to ease breathing or unblock nasal passages.

[176] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the vapour-emitting substance comprises a combination of eucalyptus oil and lavender oil in a 1:1 ratio. In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the eucalyptus oil and lavender oil are present in a 7:3 ratio. In yet another preferred embodiment, the vapour-emitting substance comprises only tea tree oil. In still yet another preferred embodiment, the vapour-emitting substance comprises a combination of eucalyptus oil, lavender oil and tea tree oil in a 14:3:3 ratio.

[177] In the case where the wearer desires relaxation, the essential oil may be selected from any one of the following group of essential oils comprising: lemon oil, lavender oil, geranium oil, or any combination thereof. Alternatively, in the case where the wearer desires stimulation, the essential oil may be selected from any one of the following group of essential oils comprising: pine oil, cedar oil, peppermint oil, citrus oils such as lemon oil, orange oil, or any combination thereof. In the case where the wearer has an infection in which bacteria are transmitted via exhalation, the vapour-emitting substance may be an antiseptic in the form of an anti-microbial or anti-bacterial fluid that is impregnated into a suitable support material, such that in use, the bacterial population in the wearer's exhalations are substantially reduced as a result of the anti-bacterial vapour emitted by the substance, thereby reducing the likelihood of others in the vicinity of the wearer becoming infected. The anti-bacterial fluid may be an essential oil that has an anti-bacterial property, including, but not limited to, such oils as eucalyptus oil, tea tree oil, lavender oil, geranium oil, and lemon oil, or any combination thereof.

WET WIPE COMPOSITION

[178] For wet wipes that can be used according to embodiments of the present invention, the wet wipe composition preferably contains at least one vapour-emitting substance as an active agent, a carrier medium comprising water, and at least about 10 wt% organic solvent.

[179] Desirably, the wet wipe composition contains more than about 10 weight percent of vapour-emitting substance as the active agent based on the total weight of the wet wipe composition. Preferably, the wet wipe composition may contain from about 0.1 weight percent to about 10.0 weight percent of vapour-emitting substance as the active agent. More preferably, the wet wipe composition may contain from about 0.2 weight percent to about 7.0 weight percent of vapour-emitting substance as the active agent. Optimally, the wet wipe composition may contain from about 0.25 weight percent to about 6.0 weight percent of vapour-emitting substance as the active agent.

ORGANIC SOLVENT

[180] Examples of organic solvents that may be present in the wet wipe composition include alcohols such as, ethanol, isopropanol, n-propanol, butyl alcohol, glycerol and propylene glycol, or any combination thereof.

[181] Desirably, the wet wipe composition contains more than about 10 weight percent of an organic solvent based on the total weight of the wet wipe composition. Preferably, the wet wipe composition may contain from about 10 weight percent to about 85 weight percent of an organic solvent. More preferably, the wet wipe composition may contain from about 15 weight percent to about 75 weight percent of an organic solvent. More preferably, the wet wipe composition may contain from about 20 weight percent to about 60 weight percent of an organic solvent.

[182] The organic solvent may be miscible with water to provide a solution, or it may be immiscible with water to provide an emulsion. Preferably the organic solvent is miscible with water. More preferably the organic solvent is a lower alcohol. In one embodiment, the organic solvent is an alcohol. Ethanol and isopropanol have long histories of safe use for skin-contact applications, and may also impart anti-microbial properties to the wet wipe. Glycerol also has a long history of safe use for skin-contact applications, and may serve as an emollient in the wet wipe composition.

[183] The wet wipe composition may further comprise a variety of additives including, but not limited to, the following additives: preservatives; wetting agents and cleaning agents, such as detergents, surfactants; emollients; and pH adjusting agents, such as citric acid or sodium hydroxide.

PRESERVATIVE

The wet wipe composition may also contain preservatives and/or antimicrobial agents. Several preservatives and/or anti-microbial agents, such as DMDMH hydantoin, which include for example, Nipaguard T M DMDMH (commercially available from Clariant SE., Germany), have been found to give excellent results in preventing bacteria, yeast and mould growth. Other suitable preservatives and anti-microbial agents include for example, alkylbenzyldimethylammonium chloride (commercially available under the brand name of Quat T M from Clariant Corp., US) and phenoxyethanol/ethylhexyl glycerin (commercially available under the brand name of euxyl TM PE 9010 from Schlke & Mayr GmbH, Germany). Preferably, the wet wipe composition contains less than about 3.0 weight percent on an active basis of preservatives and/or anti-microbial agents based on the total weight of the wet wipe composition. More preferably, the wet wipe composition contains from about 0.1 weight percent to about 2.5 weight percent of preservatives and/or anti-microbial agents, more preferably from about 0.2 weight percent to about 1.5 weight percent of preservatives and/or anti-microbial agents.

WETTING AGENT

A variety of wetting agents and/or cleaning agents may be used in the wet wipe composition. Suitable wetting agents and/or cleaning agents include for example, detergents and non ionic, anionic and amphoteric surfactants. One function of the surfactant is to improve wetting of the dry vapour-emitting support material with the wet wipe composition. Useful amphoteric surfactants include the amphodiacetates, such as disodium cocodiacetate, sold commercially under the brand name, Mackam@2C (Solvay Rhodia, UK). Other useful surfactants may include, but are not limited to polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP). Preferably, the wet wipe composition contains less than about 10.0 weight percent of wetting agents and/or cleaning agents based on the total weight of the wet wipe composition. More preferably, the wet wipe composition contains from about 0.1 weight percent to about 10.0 weight percent of wetting agents and/or cleaning agents, more preferably from about 0.2 weight percent to about 7.0 weight percent of wetting agents and/or cleaning agents. Optimally, the wet wipe composition contains from about 0.25 weight percent to about 6.0 weight percent of wetting agents and/or cleaning agents.

EMOLLIENT

[184] The wet wipe composition may also contain one or more emollients for use in moisturising the wearer's skin when the mask 10 is worn in use. Suitable emollients include, for example, polyethoxylated lanolin (commercially available as Solan@ E50 from Croda

Health Care, US). Preferably, the wet wipe composition contains less than about 5.0 weight percent of emollients based on the total weight of the wet wipe composition. More preferably, the wet wipe composition comprises less than about 2.0 weight percent emollient, more preferably less than about 1.5% emollient.

HUMECTANT

[185] The wet wipe composition may also contain one or more humectants to retain water within the mask 10. Suitable humectants include polyols such as, for example, glycerin. Preferably, the wet wipe composition contains less than about 75.0 weight percent of humectant based on the total weight of the wet wipe composition. More preferably, the wet wipe composition comprises less than about 70.0 weight percent humectant.

THICKENER

[186] The wet wipe composition may also contain one or more thickeners to increase the viscosity of the wet wipe composition. Suitable thickeners include the water soluble polyacrylamides such as the thickener formed form a combination of polyacrylamide, C13 C14 Iso-paraffin and Laureth-7 (commercially available as SEPIGEL TM305 from SEPPIC). Preferably, the wet wipe composition contains less than about 5.0 weight percent of thickener based on the total weight of the wet wipe composition. More preferably, the wet wipe composition comprises less than about 2.0 weight percent thickener.

pH ADJUSTING AGENT

[187] Examples of pH adjusting agents for use in the wet wipe composition include malic acid, citric acid, lactic acid, hydrochloric acid, acetic acid, sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, and the like. Preferably, the pH range of the wet wipe composition is from about 5.5 to about 7.5, more preferably from about 6.0 to about 7.2, and optimally from about 6.2 to about 6.8. Preferably, the wet wipe composition contains less than about 2.0 weight percent of a pH adjusting agent based on the total weight of the wet wipe composition, more preferably from about 0.01 weight percent to about 1.0 weight percent of a pH adjusting agent, more preferably from about 0.01 weight percent to about 0.05 weight percent of a pH adjusting agent. It will be appreciated by persons skilled in that art that the percent of pH adjusting agent in the wet wipe composition may vary slightly from batch to batch.

OTHERCOMPONENTS

[188] The wet wipe composition may also contain one or more other components. In one embodiment, the wet wipe composition comprises aloe vera extract for its soothing properties.

Preferably, the wet wipe composition contains less than about 1.0 weight percent of a soothing agent such as, for example, aloe vera extract based on the total weight of the wet wipe composition. More preferably, the wet wipe composition comprises less than about 0.5 weight percent aloe vera extract, more preferably less than about 0.2 weight percent aloe vera extract.

[189] The following examples are put forth so as to provide persons skilled in the art with a complete disclosure and description of how to make and use the compositions according to the preferred embodiments of the present invention, and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[190] Efforts have been made to ensure accuracy with respect to numbers (e.g., amounts, temperature, etc.) but some errors and deviations should be accounted for. Unless indicated otherwise, parts are parts by weight, temperature is in [deg.] C. and pressure is at or near atmospheric pressure.

EXAMPLES

[191] A variety of wet wipe compositions, formed from water, at least one vapour-emitting substance, at least about 10 wt% organic solvent, and optionally one or more of the other above described additives, may be used with the wet wipes according to embodiments of the present invention. In one example, the wet wipe composition contains the following components, given in weight percent of the wet wipe composition, as shown in Table 1 below:

TABLE 1

COMPONENT

Component Weight (Wt. %)

Sample #4

Sample #1 Sample #2 Sample

#3

Vapour-emitting Eucalyptusoil substance Eucalyptus Eucalyptus Tea tree 70.0 oil oil oil 100 Lavender oil 15.0

70.0 50.0 Tea tree oil 15.0

Lavender oil Lavender oil

30.0 50.0

Preservative Phenoxyethanol ethylhexyl/

Nipaguard'TM Nipaguard'TM Quat TM (50%) glycerin DMDMH DMDMH 1.0 1.0

0.4 0.4

pH adjusting Lactic acid or Sodium Citric acid or Citric acid or Citric acid or hydroxide agent (q.s.)

Sodium Sodium Sodium hydroxide hydroxide hydroxide

Solvent Ethanol

Ethanol Ethanol Ethanol 10

26.0 26.0 55.0

Emollient

Solan TM E50 Solan T E50 M Solan T E50 M

1.0 1.0

1.0

Surfactant Polyvinylpyrrolidone

Mackamim 2C MackamiM MackamiM .3

2C 2C 2.0

2.0 5.0

Other Glycerin

Propylene Propylene Propylene 65 glycol 4.0 glycol 4.0 glycol 25.0 Aloe vera extract

0.054

Polyacrylamide/C13C14

isoparaffin/laureth-7

1.4

0.3 D.3 2.0 5

Active Agent

Balance Purified water

Purified Purified Purified 17.246 water 66.3 water 66.3 water 11.0

Example 1

[192] This example illustrates a method of preparing a wet wipe composition (Sample #3) comprising the vapour-emitting substance, tea tree oil, as the active agent, in an amount of 2 mg per ml of the composition in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[193] 550 g of ethanol is charged into a sterile vessel using an aseptic technique. 250 g of propylene glycol, 50 g of Mackam T M 20 surfactant, 10 g of Solan TM E50 emollient, 10 g of QuatTMas preservative, and 20 g of tea tree oil are charged into the vessel using an aseptic technique and mixed to afford a homogenous solution. 100 g of purified water was then added to the vessel with stirring. A solution of pH adjusting agent is then added to the vessel to adjust the pH to pH 6.2 to 6.8. An additional 10 g of purified water is aseptically transferred to the vessel with mixing to bring the aqueous formulation to 1 kg. The formulation is a stable, clear yellow liquid with a specific gravity of approximately 0.91.

[194]The liquid is added to dry wipes at the rate of 4.5g/wipe and then each impregnated wipe is individually packaged in the sleeve 90, either in single or folded condition.

Example 2

[194a] This example illustrates a preferred wet wipe composition.

Antibacterial Disposable Face Mask Gel

% Chemical Name Function

65.000 Glycerin Humectant - stops dryout 17.246 Water Carrier - solvent 10.000 Ethanol Solvent for oils 3.500 Eucalyptus globulus [Eucalyptus] Leaf Oil Antiseptic essential oil 1.400 Polyacrylamide & C13-14 Isoparaffin & Laureth-7 Thickener 1.000 Phenoxyethanol & EthylHexyl Glycerin Preservatives 0.750 Melaleuca alternifolia [Tea Tree] Leaf Oil Antiseptic essential oil 0.750 Lavendula augustifolia [Lavender] Oil Antiseptic essential oil 0.300 PVP Film former 0.054 Aloe vera extract Soothing q.s. Sodium Hydroxide pH adjustment q.s. Lactic acid pH adjustment

USE

[195] In use, the wearer preferably applies a manual peel off motion to the front and rear portions of the sleeve, so to cause the sleeve to rupture along the seal. Once the sleeve has ruptured, vapour from the vapour-emitting substance is emitted from the ruptured sleeve and passes through the vapour-permeable membrane integrated within the aperture of the mask body to the mouth and nose of the wearer in use. The portions of the ruptured sleeve remain in the mask body during use, and after use, can be pulled out through the corresponding aperture via pulling the corresponding membrane through the aperture when ready to discard, or replace membrane filter as required.

[195a] In this arrangement, the wearer can selectively actuate the sleeve to release vapour from the vapour-emitting substance when the wearer is in areas where there is a high risk of exposure to infection or strong odour, thereby protecting the wearer against undesirable exposure to infection or strong odour.

[195b] Such, a respiratory mask is expected to find application in areas where there is a high risk of infection or strong odour, such as disaster and emergency zones. The respiratory mask will also be useful in cases where there is a pandemic situation involving highly infectious transmittable diseases such as the various strains of influenza.

[195c] The respiratory mask will also be useful in less dangerous situations whereby the wearer is protected from inhaling undesirable particulate matter such as pollutants which are present in heavily polluted cities such as those in, for example, North America, South America, Europe and Asia.

[195d] The respiratory mask may also be used in domestic household cleaning and gardening environments, in particular where the wearer suffers from sinus allergies, or allergic reactions to pollen, dust mites, and the like. The respiratory mask may also have use in circumstances where the wearer is exposed to dust storms, such as those which are particularly common to countries in the Middle East region.

[196] In this embodiment, the respiratory mask body is designed as a one- time item purchase, with membrane filters purchased separately in various medicinal aromatic scents, and then simply discarded once used.

[197] In other embodiments, the respiratory mask may be provided as an assembly, whereby the mask body and the sleeve are sold separately.

[198] In other embodiments, the respiratory mask may be configured to be reusable. In this arrangement, the sleeve is provided as a replaceable insert that can be placed within the corresponding aperture preceding rupturing of sleeve. Once the vapour-emitting substance in the ruptured sleeve insert ceases to emit vapour, or the wearer desires a different vapour emitting substance, the ruptured sleeve insert can be replaced accordingly.

[199] In other embodiments, the vapour-emitting substance is not limited to being in the form of an oil, but may instead be in the form of a liquid, a gel, a gas or a solid. It will be appreciated that in the cases where the vapour-emitting substance is a liquid or gel, that the liquid or gel is infused or impregnated into a suitable woven or nonwoven support material such as paper, wood, fabric, or any other suitable fibrous material to prevent the liquid or gel from being accidentally imbibed by the wearer in use.

[200] In other embodiments, the mask body is not limited to being proportioned to fit over the nose, mouth and chin of the wearer, but may be proportioned so as to fit only over the nose and/or mouth of the wearer. It will be appreciated that in the case where only the nose is covered, then vapour released from the vapour-emitting substance in use will be communicated only to the nose. Similarly, in the case where only the mouth is covered, then vapour released from the vapour-emitting substance in use will be communicated only to the mouth.

[201] In other embodiments, the vapour-permeable membrane may be configured to cover just one of the nose or mouth in use.

[202] In other embodiments, the carrier means is not limited to being a rupturable carrier means as described above, but may be an open carrier (not shown) which freely allows vapour from the vapour-emitting substance (not shown) to be released without needing to rupture the open carrier first. In this arrangement, it will be appreciated that the respiratory mask and open carrier are ideally supplied pre-assembled in a rupturable packaging (not shown) to prevent vapour being released from the vapour-emitting substance until the packaging has been ruptured.

[203] In other embodiments, it will be appreciated that the mounting means may be a single strap.

[204] In other embodiments, it will be appreciated that the mounting means may be a removable strap or straps.

[205] In other embodiments, it will be appreciated that the mounting means may be an adjustable strap or straps to secure the mask body fitting according to the preference of the wearer.

Interpretation

Embodiments:

[206] Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, but may. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art from this disclosure, in one or more embodiments.

[207] Similarly it should be appreciated that in the above description of example embodiments of the invention, various features of the invention are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure and aiding in the understanding of one or more of the various inventive aspects. This method of disclosure, however, is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed invention requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Thus, the claims following the Detailed Description of Specific Embodiments are hereby expressly incorporated into this Detailed Description of Specific Embodiments, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of this invention.

[208] Furthermore, while some embodiments described herein include some but not other features included in other embodiments, combinations of features of different embodiments are meant to be within the scope of the invention, and form different embodiments, as would be understood by those in the art. For example, in the following claims, any of the claimed embodiments can be used in any combination.

Different Instances of Objects

[209] As used herein, unless otherwise specified the use of the ordinal adjectives "first", "second", "third", etc., to describe a common object, merely indicate that different instances of like objects are being referred to, and are not intended to imply that the objects so described must be in a given sequence, either temporally, spatially, in ranking, or in any other manner.

Specific Details

[210] In the description provided herein, numerous specific details are set forth. However, it is understood that embodiments of the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, structures and techniques have not been shown in detail in order not to obscure an understanding of this description.

Terminology

[211] In describing the preferred embodiment of the invention illustrated in the drawings, specific terminology will be resorted to for the sake of clarity. However, the invention is not intended to be limited to the specific terms so selected, and it is to be understood that each specific term includes all technical equivalents which operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar technical purpose. Terms such as "forward", "rearward", "radially", "peripherally", "upwardly", "downwardly", and the like are used as words of convenience to provide reference points and are not to be construed as limiting terms.

Comprising and Including

[212] In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word "comprise" or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising" are used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention.

[213] Any one of the terms: including or which includes or that includes as used herein is also an open term that also means including at least the elements/features that follow the term, but not excluding others. Thus, including is synonymous with and means comprising.

Scope of Invention

[214] Thus, while there has been described what are believed to be the preferred embodiments of the invention, those skilled in the art will recognize that other and further modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit of the invention, and it is intended to claim all such changes and modifications as fall within the scope of the invention. For example, any formulas given above are merely representative of procedures that may be used. Functionality may be added or deleted from the block diagrams and operations may be interchanged among functional blocks. Steps may be added or deleted to methods described within the scope of the present invention.

[215] Although the invention has been described with reference to specific examples, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention may be embodied in many other forms.

Industrial Applicability

[216] It is apparent from the above, that the arrangements described are applicable to the healthcare industry, to the domestic and commercial markets to prevent inhalation of undesirable particulate matter, and to government agencies and emergency services.

Ends.

Claims

EDITORIAL NOTE 2021101635 There is one page of claims only

1. A respiratory mask for a wearer, comprising: a mask body component for sealably covering the wearer's nose and mouth, the mask component provided with an actuable carrier means for carrying a vapour emitting substance and allowing vapour from the vapour-emitting substance to be released when the carrier means is actuated in use; and an eye shield component for sealably covering the wearer's eyes, wherein the mask component and the eye shield component can be integrated into a single piece.

2. A respiratory mask for a wearer as claimed in claim 1, wherein one or more of the mask body component and the eye shield component is fabricated from a plastic, a recycled plastic or a bioplastic, for example, non-toxic materials, such as medical grade Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPE).

3. A respiratory mask as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the mask body comprises at least an inner layer and an outer layer, the carrier means being supported substantially between the inner layer and outer layer.

4. A respiratory mask as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the carrier means is selectively actuatable between a release configuration to allow vapour to exit from the carrier means, and a non-release configuration to prevent vapour exiting from the carrier means.

5. A respiratory mask as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the carrier means comprises a wet wipe within a sleeve having a rupturable, tearable or detachable seal, the sleeve being rupturable along the rupturable, tearable or detachable seal.