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Exhalation valve for face mask with spacer chamber connection

  • US 5,645,049 A
  • Filed: 07/05/1994
  • Issued: 07/08/1997
  • Est. Priority Date: 11/09/1992
  • Status: Expired due to Term
First Claim
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1. A mask for the inhalation of medication by a human being, said mask being molded of plastic material or the like having an interior and a central through opening comprising an open front portion adapted to receive a hollow body having air with medication dispersed therein, said mask comprising:

  • means for minimizing dead space inside said mask yet providing efficient inhalation and exhalation flow paths that purge said mask of exhaled air;

    a sidewall expanding outwardly from said front portion to a rear portion adapted to fit sealingly on a human face and covering the mouth and nose, said sidewall including a tunnel-like extension projecting outwardly of said sidewall and substantially parallel thereto, and adapted to overlie a nose, said extension extending substantially from said rear portion toward said front portion and having a front end terminating short of said front portion of said mask, andmeans for providing a short exhalation flow path comprising a normally closed one-way exhalation valve adjacent said front end of said extension and adapted for positioning directly adjacent the nostrils of the nose, said exhalation valve communicating on one side inwardly of said mask into said extension and on the other side communicating outwardly of said mask to outside air,said exhalation valve opening on exhalation to pass exhaled air from said mask and closing in the absence of exhaled air to prevent entry of outside air.

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