Mask Adjunct Device

Abstract

A mask insert and mask system for improving breathing during exertion are disclosed. A mask adjunct device allows for better ventilatory airflow to a masked user especially when moisture causes the mask to collapse against the face reducing airflow. The mask adjunct device is insertable under a face mask to provide a rigid structure defining non-collapsible space between the face and the outer mask. The mask adjunct device comprises a sidewall component comprising openings for air flow and a face engaging component for engaging the user's face. An outer wall component rigidly connects the sidewall component opposite the face engaging component to create the non-collapsible space. The system further comprises an outer face mask for positioning over the mask adjunct device.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A mask adjunct device for use under an external face mask, the mask adjunct device comprising:
 an outer wall component comprising a plurality of outer wall ventilation openings;   a sidewall component extending inward from the outer wall component, and   a face engaging component extending around a perimeter of the sidewall component.   
     
     
         2 . The mask adjunct device of  claim 1 , wherein the sidewall component comprises a plurality of sidewall ventilation openings. 
     
     
         3 . The mask adjunct device of  claim 1 , wherein the sidewall component comprises a nose engaging portion. 
     
     
         4 . The mask adjunct device of  claim 1 , wherein the sidewall component comprises a chin engaging portion. 
     
     
         5 . The mask adjunct device of  claim 1 , wherein the face engaging component adjustably conforms to a user's face. 
     
     
         6 . The mask adjunct device of  claim 1 , wherein the outer wall is domed. 
     
     
         7 . The mask adjunct device of  claim 1 , wherein the outer wall and sidewall components combine to define a non-collapsible interior space. 
     
     
         8 . A mask adjunct device for improving airflow under an external face mask, the mask adjunct device comprising:
 an outer wall component comprising a plurality of outer wall ventilation openings;   a sidewall component extending inward from the outer wall component, the sidewall component comprising a plurality of sidewall ventilation openings, and   a flexible face engaging component extending around a perimeter of the sidewall component; and   wherein the outer wall and sidewall components combine to define a non-collapsible interior space.   
     
     
         9 . The mask adjunct device of  claim 8 , wherein the flexible face engaging component is a rubber gasket. 
     
     
         10 . The mask adjunct device of  claim 8 , wherein the outer wall and sidewall components are plastic. 
     
     
         11 . The mask adjunct device of  claim 8 , wherein the outer wall is flat. 
     
     
         12 . The mask adjunct device of  claim 8 , wherein the outer wall is domed. 
     
     
         13 . The mask adjunct device of  claim 8 , wherein the sidewall component comprises a nose engaging portion and a chin engaging portion. 
     
     
         14 . The mask adjunct device of  claim 8 , wherein the non-collapsible interior space is at least one inch in depth. 
     
     
         15 . The mask adjunct device of  claim 8  further comprising a securing component for engaging a user's face. 
     
     
         16 . The mask adjunct device of  claim 15 , wherein the securing component is an adjustable band. 
     
     
         17 . The mask adjunct device of  claim 15 , wherein the securing component connects to the sidewall component via a pair of securing element holes in the sidewall component. 
     
     
         18 . A mask system with increased air circulation comprising:
 an outer face mask;   a mask adjunct device insertable between the outer face mask and a user's face; the mask adjunct device comprising:
 an outer wall component comprising a plurality of outer wall ventilation openings; 
 a sidewall component extending inward from the outer wall component, the sidewall component comprising a plurality of sidewall ventilation openings, and a flexible face engaging component extending around a perimeter of the sidewall component. 
   
     
     
         19 . The mask system of  claim 18 , wherein the outer wall and sidewall components combine to define a non-collapsible interior space under the outer face mask. 
     
     
         20 . The mask system of  claim 19 , wherein the mask adjunct device further comprises a securing component for engaging a user's face under the outer face mask.