Fine Cover for a Respirator Mask

Abstract

A fine cover particularly for use with respirator facemasks comprises one or more components, each defined by a perimeter, holding flexible, breathable material. The components expand to cover part of a respirator facemask and fold smoothly to close exposed surfaces during removal, thereby preventing pathogen shedding. The cInstitute of Medicine, 2006 Reusability of Facemasks During an Influenza Pandemic: Facing the Flu; losed unit is placed in a bag for cleaning, disposal, or testing. Samples taken from fine cover can be tested to detect airborne pathogens, an optimal airborne pathogen monitoring system in medical facilities. In addition, the fine cover may have graphical imagery to directs an observer's gaze in the same patterns followed when looking at an unmasked face, thereby reducing subconscious interaction anxiety.

Claims

1. A fine cover operatively worn to cover a facemask, comprising: a) a body comprising one or more components, each comprising: one or more perimeters defining the component's shape; a material that is light-weight and breathable; the material decreases transmission of pathogens; b) the one or more components extending to cover a front central area of the facemask; c) the more than one components extending to cover none, one, or more than one areas of the facemask distal from the front central area; d) one or more attachments for securing the fine cover in place; e) at least one of the more than one components is a first component and at least another one of the more than one components is a second component, and at least a portion of the perimeter of the first component is in an adjacent structural relationship with at least a portion of the perimeter of the second component; pivot means in the adjacent structural relationship are operatively configured; f) to remove the fine cover with the more than one components, at least one of the first components pivots by the pivot means over the top of at least one of the second components, and an outer surface of at least one of the second components becomes substantially covered; g) the fine cover is effectively closed.

2. The fine cover of claim 1, wherein any one of the one or more components comprises: a) a transverse demarcation line; b) material having at least a first section and a second section, each of the sections positioned outboard of a transverse demarcation line; c) the first section transversely folding along the transverse demarcation line over at least a portion of the second section; d) the fine cover is effectively closed.

3. The fine-cover of claim 1, wherein at least one of the one or more components is not covered by another component when the fine-cover is closed; a material shaped to cover the component not covered is provided.

4. The fine cover of claim 1, further comprising that at least one of the components, at the material surrounded by the perimeter: at least a portion of the perimeter having a rim; the rim having a different thickness than the component material; the rim arranged to compress radially against the facemask, so that the area under the material within the perimeter is sealed from particle exchange with outside air.

5. The fine cover of claim 1, where to configure: at least one of the components, at the material surrounded by the perimeter: at least a portion of the material includes a heat reflective layer or liner adapted to prevent temperature increase of the wearer's face.

6. The fine cover according to claim 1, further comprising at mask removal: the fine-cover is closed when at least one of the more than one components has an outer surface facing inward, and at least another one of the more than one components has an outer surface that is covered underneath, the closed fine-cover can be placed in a bag for disposal or cleaning.

7. The fine cover according to claim 6, further comprising at the closed fine cover placed in the bag, the closed fine cover is tested to detect the presence of airborne pathogens.

8. The fine cover according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the one or more components comprise a decorative feature that attracts an observer's gaze such that the observer's light of sight with respect to the fine-cover follows a succession of points on the fine-cover, the succession of points forming a gaze pattern similar to a habitual gaze pattern of the observer looking at a face without a facemask.

9. The fine cover according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the one or more components comprises material treated with one or more anti-pathogen agents, in an amount that is effective to substantially reduce the survival or activity of targeted pathogens.

10. The fine cover according to claim 1, wherein the material is selected from the group consisting of: microfiber, cellulose fiber, modal fabric, micromodal fabric, silk, linen, mesh, tricot, soutache, cotton, hemp, synthetic fibers, and combinations thereof.

11. A method preventing the release of microbial pathogens adhering to a fine-cover worn over part of a respirator mask, comprising the steps of: providing at least one component comprising a breathable, light-weight, fabric-like material interconnected with one or more perimeter structures, by way of one or more connecting fibers in an auxetic relationship with at least one of the perimeter structures; and removing the fine-cover by releasing attachments that hold it in place; in which: a) at least one of the perimeter structures extends generally longitudinally relative to an axis of one or more connecting fibers; b) at least one of the perimeter structures and at least one of the connecting fibers are in a helical configuration; c) each perimeter structure in a helical configuration with a connecting fiber has a different modulus of elasticity from the connecting fiber; d) variation in a tensile or compressive load applied to the perimeter structure upon removal of the fine-cover causes the radial position of the connecting fibers relative to their axis to vary, producing an auxetic effect that prevents the component material from shaking and releasing microbial pathogens.

12. A method for determining the presence of airborne pathogens present in an environment, comprising the steps of: a) wearing a fine-cover over a facemask, the fine-cover comprising: i) one or a plurality of components defined by perimeters around light-weight, breathable material to which pathogens adhere, and ii) the plurality of components including a first and a second component in an adjacent relationship, the first component capable of pivoting over the second component, closing the fine-cover; b) placing the closed fine-cover in a disposal bag; c) transporting the fine-cover and disposal bag to a testing location; d) treating the fine-cover with a substance; e) drawing a sample from the substance; f) condensing the sample to form a concentrate; g) testing the concentrate in a molecular detection apparatus.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying figures, not limited by the figures, in which like references may indicate similar elements and in which:

[0034] FIG. 1 is a frontal perspective view of a respirator mask;

[0035] FIG. 2 is a front lateral perspective view of one embodiment of a fine-cover according to the present invention;

[0036] FIG. 3a-f illustrate one embodiment of a fine-cover according to the present invention, 3a showing a perspective view, 3b showing the removal cover used to remove the 3a fine-cover, 3c and 3d are close up views of auxetic structures on a perimeter structure, 3e and 3f show perspective views of the 3a fine-cover, 3e containing a longitudinal fold, and 3f a horizontal fold;

[0037] FIG. 4a-h are samples of a sequence of front lateral perspective views of 4b the fine-cover shown in FIG. 2 being removed from 4a the respirator face mask shown in FIG. 1, 4c-e folding the fine-cover inwards to avoid surface flux, 4f forming a sealed unit, 4g-h placing in a disposal bag;

[0038] FIG. 5a is a diagrammatic representation of one embodiment of a fine-cover according to the present invention;

[0039] FIG. 5b is front lateral perspective view of the fine-cover shown in FIG. 5a;

[0040] FIG. 6a is a diagrammatic representation of one embodiment of a fine-cover according to the present invention, showing the basic design;

[0041] FIG. 6b shows the folded fine-cover shown in FIG. 6a;

[0042] FIG. 6c is a front lateral perspective view of the fine-cover shown in FIG. 6a;

[0043] FIG. 7a is a diagrammatic representation of one embodiment of a fine-cover according to the present invention, showing the basic design;

[0044] FIG. 7b shows the folded fine-cover shown in FIG. 7a;

[0045] FIG. 7c is a front lateral perspective view of the fine-cover shown in FIG. 7a;

[0046] FIG. 8a is a diagrammatic representation of one embodiment of a fine-cover according to the prese4nt invention, showing the basic design;

[0047] FIG. 8b shows the folded fine-cover shown in FIG. 8a;

[0048] FIG. 8c is a front lateral perspective view of the fine-cover shown in FIG. 8a;

[0049] FIG. 9a represents one embodiment of a fine-cover according to the present invention, showing the basic design and the folded fine-cover;

[0050] FIG. 9b illustrates different designs of the inner component of FIG. 9a;

[0051] FIG. 9c illustrates a front lateral perspective view of the fine-cover shown in FIG. 9a;

[0052] FIG. 10a-b are frontal perspective views of one embodiment of a fine-cover according to the present invention, with FIG. 10a showing the reflective base layer, and FIG. 10b showing the top layer;

[0053] FIG. 11 illustrates frontal perspectives of a person's face displaying aggregated eye gaze movements on it, with and without a face mask and a fine-cover;

[0054] FIG. 12 is a front lateral view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 5a and FIG. 5b being worn by a wearer;

[0055] FIG. 13 is a flow chart of the post-use measurement system for the fine-covers.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0056] According to the present invention, there is provided a fine-cover for a respirator mask, for decreasing the transmission of one or more pathogens adhering to the fine-cover, extending the usage of the respirator mask worn underneath the fine-cover, reducing the discomfort of wearing the respirator mask, improving the confidence of a wearer of the respirator mask, and providing an airborne pathogen detector with the fine-cover closed unit. The fine-cover comprises material to which pathogens adhere, and has a compound structure so that pathogens do not disjoin when the fine-cover is removed from the face mask, and further contracts as a closed unit to seal the fine-cover surfaces when removed. In one embodiment, the fine-cover displays imagery that directs an observer's gaze to follow patterns similar to the habitual eye movement patterns looking at an unmasked face. In one embodiment, the fine-cover material contains agents that inactivate pathogens, thereby rendering the infectious particles non-infectious. In one further embodiment the removed, sealed fine-cover closed unit is placed in a bag to safely store it. According to another embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a method for measuring the airborne pathogen levels in an environment. In one embodiment, the method comprises rinsing a used fine-cover, precipitating with filter media, concentrating residue, and testing in PCR assay or other available microbial detection method. According to another embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a method for decreasing the transmission of one or more pathogens adhering to a fine-cover of a respirator mask, extending the usage time of the respirator mask worn underneath the fine-cover, reducing the discomfort of wearing the respirator mask, and improving confidence of a wearer of the respirator mask. The fine-cover and method will now be disclosed in greater detail.

[0057] As used herein, the term “fine-cover” means a cover made of material that is thin, light-weight, breathable, and microporous. All dimensions, angles, and shapes specified in this disclosure are by way of example of one or more than one embodiment only and are not intended to be limiting.

[0058] As used herein, “pathogen” comprises bacteria, fungi and viruses, or other microorganisms that cause human disease.

[0059] As used herein, “component” means an area of cover material that is defined by a perimeter that borders the cover material.

[0060] As used herein, “center-front area” means the front-facing geometric center of a face mask, located over the wearer's nose and mouth.

[0061] As used herein “outermost component” means a component that is more distant from the mask center-front area, on at least one side of the horizontal plane, than other components on that side and “inner component” means a component that is closer to the mask center-front area than an outermost component.

[0062] As used herein, “outer edge” means a component perimeter furthest from the mask center-front area, and “inner edge” means a component perimeter closest to the mask center-front area.

[0063] As used herein, “accordion” means that pleats are used so that fold lines form pleat mountains or valleys between components when contracted, and the fine cover material having shape retention an intended pleat shape can be preferably provided; “top component” refers to the side of the pleat mountain that, when folded, is on top of the other side of the same pleat mountain, and “bottom component” refers to the side of a pleat mountain that, when folded, is below the other side of the pleat mountain; “under-all component” refers to the component that all other pleat mountains fold over.

[0064] As used herein, “energy deformation” refers to all types of physical deformation generally, unless indicated otherwise. Deformation is defined as the dislocation of points on a surface from their position in a stable physical state. The root cause of “energy deformation” is that physical vibrations caused by the release of elastic bands holding a face mask to the user's head propagate across the face mask surface. This energy propagation is also called “surface flux”. Microscopic buckling distortion is characterized by a microscopic wavy undulating surface. Such microscopic buckling distortion may lead to the separation of microbes adhered to the surface (Vella, D., 2019, 16.)

[0065] As used herein, “spatial gap” refers to a space between two closely spaced objects, such as a gap between a fine cover and a respirator mask.

[0066] As used herein, “polluted” refers to contamination and physical fouling of a respirator mask.

[0067] As used herein, “topological pattern” is a composition of components with self-folding motion inherent in creases or boundaries between edges and vertices.

[0068] As used herein, “perimeter” is the outer portion or edge of components, the periphery that outlines component shapes, so as to make a contour around them.

[0069] As used herein, “respirator mask” refers to a “personal protective device that is worn on the face, covers at least the nose and mouth, and is used to reduce the wearer's risk of inhaling hazardous airborne particles,” according to the Centers for Disease Control. Respirators “remove contaminants from the air,” and “are also commonly referred to as “N95s” (CDC, 2018, 17.) Respirator masks use nonwoven, melt blown fiber webs rather than conventional textiles. These fiber webs have voids larger than 0.1 μm diameter. Since the late 1970s, Respirator mask manufacturing uses electrostatic charging of fibers through field and induction to filter >95% of particles with 0.1 μm diameter (U.S. Pat. 4,375,718 to Wadsworth & Hersh, P5.) Aerosol microbes suspended in aqueous droplets adhere to the respirator mask surface or subsurface, instead of penetrating. Electrostatic charges trap microbes in liquid spheres. Shear forces, induced by deformation energy rippling across surfaces during mask removal, exponentially increases disaggregation of microbial particles (Bos, R. et al., 1999, 17.)

[0070] As used herein, an “auxetic structure” is a combination of materials, such as a cylindrical perimeter and fabric connectors, that together have a negative Poisson's ratio. Poisson's ratio is the contraction or transverse strain (normal to applied load) divided by the extension or axial strain (in the applied load's direction.) If negative, when the perimeter is compressed (or stretched) in one direction, such as when released from (or extended by) attachments, the fabric connectors become stretched (or relax). This prevents fabric from shaking when a fine-cover is removed. The auxetic configuration provides energy dissipation as deformation energy is dissipated through the increased strain energy of the connecting fibers.

[0071] FIG. 1 displays a frontal perspective view of one type of respirator mask 101 (of the N95 type). As can be seen, the respirator mask 101 comprises a body 103 for covering the mouth and nose of a human wearer, and extends to a considerable degree out from the face of the wearer, forming a convex shape towards the center-front area 105 of the body 103. The body 103 further comprises a perimeter 107 surrounding the body. The body 103 further comprises one or more extensions 109 joined to the body 103 for securing the respirator mask 101 to the head of the wearer.

[0072] According to the present invention, there is provided a fine cover for decreasing the transmission of one or more than one human pathogen intercepted by the fine cover, protecting the respirator mask worn underneath, improving the comfort and appearance of the wearer, and permitting safe doffing and storage of the used fine cover. Referring now to FIG. 2, the respirator mask 101 comprises a body 103 over which a fine cover 201 is positioned. The shape of the fine cover 201 can be any suitable shape for the purpose intended, as will be understood by those with skill in the art with reference to this disclosure. In a preferred embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, the topological pattern of the fine cover is governed by right 203, center 205, and left 207 fold edges (directions looking at the fine cover from the front.) In topology, the end result of folding a topological pattern is sometimes called the surviving minimum, which is equivalent to a closed unit. Energy deformation is minimized as embodiments have fold angles in the closed unit with creases or hinges that closely correspond to fold angles that the folding follows without creases or hinges. This invention has crease stiffness profiles that can be carelessly actuated without increasing energy deformation.

[0073] As seen in FIG. 2, the topological pattern of the fine cover 201 is particularly advantageous because is isolates any potential deformation energy in outer components 211 and 215, so that right outer component 211 does not propagate deformation energy to a right inner component 213, and left outer component 215 does not propagate deformation energy to a left inner component 217. The fine cover 201 contains lightweight, breathable, non-stretchable material 221, that does not cause a greenhouse-effect to the wearer, preferably modal cellulose, micromodal, silk, or linen. Mesh, tricot, and other sheer fabric may be used. The fine cover 201 also contains a thin, uniform, reflective layer 223 such as vacuum aluminized paper, usually under a fabric surface, to prevent heat build-up. Velcro attachments 225 are attached, to facilitate sealing the folded-up fine cover after use. Extensions 227 attach the fine cover 201 to the wearer.

[0074] FIG. 3A illustrates a fine-cover 301 in a further embodiment comprises one or more components 303 with lightweight, breathable material 305 that covers primarily the nose and mouth area of the wearer of a respirator mask 302. The small fine cover fabric material 305 is attached to semi-rigid structures 309, which seal the small fine cover fabric material 305 that is over an air exchange mechanism located on the respirator mask 302 beneath the shaded area 310. An interspace may exist between small fine cover fabric material 305 and the underlying face mask 302 but semi-rigid structures 309 ensure the interspace area is sealed, and thereby wearing small fine cover 301 according to the present invention, when compared with wearing only a respirator mask with an air exchange mechanism, decreases egress of airborne infectious particles outward from the air exchange mechanism. The small fine cover 301 is held in place by extensions 307.

[0075] FIG. 3B illustrates an embodiment 315 in which the small fine cover 301 is worn over a respirator-mask 302, wherein the fine-cover 301 is being prepared for removal. As the small fine cover 301 is only one component, a flexible cover 317 is lifted onto the fine cover 301 to seal the outer surface 313 of the fabric material 305.

[0076] FIG. 3C illustrates a detail of the small fine cover in FIG. 3A, to show its auxetic structure. The perimeter structure 303 axial strain, when the small fine cover is worn, is positive, being stretched across the surface. At the same time the fabric's connecting fiber 321 strain is transverse and negative, because the tensile modulus of perimeter structure is higher than that of the connecting fiber, and because of how the fiber wraps around the perimeter. While the stretched perimeter seals the area under the fabric, the fabric 323 is not stretched tight, but is to some degree looser. 322 shows an expanded view of the connecting fiber 321 and perimeter structure 303 helical arrangement, when the fine cover is worn.

[0077] FIG. 3D illustrates the same detail as FIG. 3C during the small fine cover's removal. The auxetic properties now invert: the perimeter structure 325 axial strain is reduced, being released from its stretched state. At the same time, the fabric's connecting fiber 327 transverse strain is increased. The tensile modulus of the connecting fiber 327 is forced higher, in part due to the perimeter structure 325 stiffness. As the perimeter structure 325 is relaxed during removal, this tightens the fabric 329, so that its surface does not shake. 330 shows an expanded view of the connecting fiber 327 and perimeter structure 325 helical arrangement, as the fine cover is removed. FIG. 3E illustrates the small fine cover in FIG. 3A with a longitudinal demarcation line 343 around which the small fine cover 341 folds to close. Alternatively FIG. 3F illustrates the small fine cover in FIG. 3A with horizontal demarcation 347 around which the small fine cover 345 folds or rolls to close. In FIG. 3F when attachments 348 and 349 are released, the motion results in the upper 351 and lower 353 halves of the fine cover 345 closing automatically.

[0078] FIG. 4A-H illustrate perspective views of the removal of the fine cover shown in FIG. 2. FIG. 4A illustrates a respirator mask 401. FIG. 4B illustrates a fine cover 402 positioned over the respirator mask 401, as worn by a user. FIG. 4C and FIG. 4D illustrate the user's hand pivoting a far right component 407 of the fine cover over the top of the near right component 409 of the fine cover. FIG. 4E illustrates the user's hand pivoting a far left component 411 of the fine cover over the top of the near left component 413 of the fine cover. FIG. 4F illustrates the fine cover closed unit 421, with the surfaces of all components sealed, held in place by the velcro strips that are no longer visible. FIG. 4G illustrates the fine cover closed unit 421 as it fits in a dedicated disposal/reuse bag 423. FIG. 411 illustrates the dedicated disposal/reuse bag 423 containing the used fine cover.

[0079] In a preferred embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 5A, fine cover 501 can comprise a plurality of components, far left component 505, near left component 506, near right component 507, and far right component 508, with stretch panel 510 in a centroid position. The plurality of components 505, 506, 507, and 508 can comprise a variety of shapes, sizes, colors, and combinations thereof so long as far left component 505 and far right component 508 substantially cover near left component 506 and near right component 507, respectively, when far left component 505 and far right component 508 are folded closed. The plurality of components 505, 506, 507, and 508 can comprise a variety of materials such as, for example, modal cellulose, micromodal, silk, linen, mesh, tricot, or other sheer fabric.

[0080] Fulcrum member 513 can be a post, an axle, a bar, or other suitable support, in a best mode teflon coated. By reason of connectors 515, far right component 508 is attached to fulcrum member 513. When the fine cover 501 is worn, far right component 508 is flattened, thereby being urged against fulcrum member 513 to be in an open relation as illustrated in FIG. 5A. Far right component 508 may be manually grasped and conveniently lifted. By such action this swings component 508 relative to an integral hinge means formed at the confluence of fulcrum member 513 and connectors 515, and consequently far right component 508 may readily cover near right component 507 and thereafter adequately clasp thereby against the attachment mechanism 521. Attachment mechanism 521 effectively but removably sustains the closure of the right side of fine cover 501, forming an integral seal means whereby the outer surfaces of components 507 and 508 are held against each other. Posts 525 are used to attach extension straps or lines that hold the fine cover 501 in position.

[0081] It is apparent that the process forming the integral hinge means on the right side of the fine cover 501, as provided for in the confluence of fulcrum member 513 and connectors 515, may be used to rotate far left component 505 up, over, and to cover near left component 506, using fulcrum member 514 and connectors 516 to form an integral hinge means on the left side of the fine cover 501. It is apparent that the process forming integral seal means on the right side of the fine cover 501, as provided for by attachment mechanism 521, may be used to form integral seal means on the left side of the fine cover 501, by attachment mechanism 528 holding the outer surfaces of components 505 and 506 against each other.

[0082] FIG. 5B depicts fine cover 501 with imagery on component and panel surfaces. As mentioned above, this imagery helps control the eye gaze pattern of observers, producing a gaze pattern similar to looking at an unmasked face.

[0083] FIG. 6A is a diagrammatic representation of another embodiment of a fine cover 601. Fine cover 601 comprises above-fold components 603 and 605, under-fold components 607 and 609, and underlay component 611. Fine cover 601 displays five components, but it may, for example, have three, four, six, seven, or more components. Upon closing, above-fold component 603 folds along fold line 615 to form a peak, and above-fold component 605 folds along fold line 617 to form a peak. Continuing the closure, under-fold component 607 folds along fold line 621 to form a trough, and under-fold component 609 folds along fold line 623 to form a trough. The closure continues by placing fold line 615 on center line 625, in the motion illustrated by arrow 626, and placing fold line 617 on center-line 625, in the motion illustrated by arrow 627.

[0084] FIG. 6B is a diagrammatic representation of fine cover 601 when closed. Above-fold components 603 and 605 are visible, as they sit above the rest of the mask. The size of the closed fine mask in FIG. 6B allows it to fit in a disposal/reuse bag.

[0085] FIG. 6A depicts fine cover 601 with imagery 624 on component and panel surfaces. As mentioned above, this imagery helps control the eye gaze pattern of observers, producing a gaze pattern similar to looking at an unmasked face.

[0086] FIG. 7A is a diagrammatic representation of another embodiment of a fine cover 701. Fine cover 701 comprises side components 703 and 705 and center component 707. Component 703 is configured with a frame 711 that holds fabric material 712. Component 705 is configured with a frame 713 that holds fabric material 714. Component 707 is configured with a frame 715 that surrounds fabric material 716 held within it. Frame 715 includes hinge parts, each hinge part mating with one of each of one or a plurality of hinge parts included in frame 711 and 713 to form a pair of hinge parts. Each pair of hinge parts may comprise a pintle 718 and a gudgeon 719. When components 703 and 705 are lifted by the user, they rotate across the top of component 707.

[0087] Alternatively, the part of frame 715 which joins with frame 711 may be fused to or combined with frame 711, and on this surface may have a reduced thickness band along its length, as illustrated in expanded diagram 720, and the part of frame 715 which joins with frame 713 may be fused to or combined with frame 713, and on this surface may have a reduced thickness band along its length, as illustrated in 720. The reduced thickness band 720 may be called a “crease pattern.” The crease pattern 720 induces side components 703 and 705 to rotate over center component 707 when lifted by a user. Frames may comprise rigid or semi-rigid material.

[0088] FIG. 7B is a diagrammatic representation of fine cover 701 when closed. Side components 703 and 705 are visible, as they sit above center component 707. The size of the closed fine mask in FIG. 7B allows it to fit in a disposal/reuse bag.

[0089] FIG. 7C depicts fine cover 701 with imagery 724 on component surfaces. As mentioned above, this imagery helps control the eye gaze pattern of observers, producing a gaze pattern similar to looking at an unmasked face.

[0090] FIG. 8A is a diagrammatic representation of another embodiment of a fine cover 801. Fine cover 801 comprises side components 803 and 805 and center component 807. Component 803 is configured with a frame 811 that holds fabric material 812. Component 805 is configured with a frame 813 that holds fabric material 814. Component 807 is configured with a frame 815 that surrounds fabric material 816 held within it. A hinge 820 connects frame 811 and frame 815. A hinge 822 connects frame 813 and frame 815. When components 803 and 805 are lifted by the user, they rotate across the top of component 807.

[0091] Fine cover 801 displays side components 803 and 805, each in a round configuration, but it may, for example, be in an ovoid, polygonal, substantially circular, closed curvilinear geometric, or other shape configuration.

[0092] FIG. 8B is a diagrammatic representation of fine cover 801 when closed. Side components 803 and 805 are visible, as they sit above center component 807. The size of the closed fine mask in FIG. 8b allows it to fit in a disposal/reuse bag.

[0093] FIG. 8C depicts fine cover 801 with imagery 824 on component surfaces. As mentioned above, this imagery helps control the eye gaze pattern of observers, producing a gaze pattern similar to looking at an unmasked face.

[0094] FIG. 9A is a diagrammatic representation of another embodiment of a fine cover 901. Fine cover 901 comprises side components 903 and 905 and center component 907. Side component 903 folds over both center component 907 and side component 905. The motion of this folding is shown with arrow 910, and the fine cover 901 closure is illustrated in 911. Alternatively, side component 905 folds over both center component 907 and side component 903.

[0095] FIG. 9B is a diagrammatic representation of the fine cover embodiment in FIG. 9A, but with different center component shapes. Fine cover 914 has the same structure as fine cover 901, with a different shape of center component 916. Fine cover 918 has the same structure as fine cover 901, with a different shape of center component 920.

[0096] FIG. 9C depicts fine cover 901 with imagery 924 on component surfaces. As mentioned above, this imagery helps control the eye gaze pattern of observers, producing a gaze pattern similar to looking at an unmasked face.

[0097] FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B are frontal perspective views of one embodiment of a fine cover 1001 according to the present invention, with FIG. 10A showing the reflective base layer 1003, and FIG. 10B showing the top layer 1010. In FIG. 10A, the reflective base layer 1003 includes a film layer 1004 having at least one reflective side. The film layer 1004 is achieved with a metallised film or other material. In this embodiment an aluminum layer deposited on a surface has a thickness of 200 nanometers or less. A protective coating of 1 micron or less thickness may be applied to prevent oxidation of the aluminum layer.

[0098] Reflective base layer 1003 outer components 1008 and 1009 include empty spaces 1005 to preserve air flow through the fine cover 1001. Reflective base layer 1003 inner component 1011 has a net-like web 1007, that may be configured of reflective material. Alternatively, cooling of the underlying face mask may be obtained by using a base layer with one or more wavelength-selective radiative cooling materials, comprising a selectively emissive layer, in particular, emitting infrared radiation.

[0099] FIG. 10B illustrates a top layer 1010 of fine cover 1001. In this embodiment top layer 1010 goes over FIG. 10A reflective base layer 1003. A sufficient surface area of the top layer 1010 fabric material 1012 provides a fabric material function, which is to adsorb, absorb, and/or otherwise enable pathogenic microbes to adhere to the fabric material, and to inactivate a significant fraction of the pathogenic microbes. The top layer 1010 fabric material 1012 may have properties such as air permeability and moisture vapor transfer, and contain anti-pathogen agents.

[0100] Both top layer 1010 and reflective base layer 1003 attach to poles 1015 and 1017 with attachments 1020 in a manner that permits outer components to rotate without friction over inner components.

[0101] FIG. 11 shows frontal perspectives of a person's face displaying aggregated eye gaze movements on it, with and without a face mask and a fine cover. The eye gaze movement patterns are isolated next to each face. 1103 shows a frontal perspective of a person's face with aggregated eye gaze pattern 1104 of observers of that person's face, collected by researchers using eye tracking cameras.

[0102] The lines show the motion of the observer's gaze across the face, which are isolated in 1105. Notice the gaze pattern 1104 shifts between eyes 1107 and mouth 1108, forming a T shape, visible in 1105. 1113 shows a frontal perspective of a person wearing a face mask 1112, with aggregated eye gaze pattern 1114 of observers of that person's face and face mask. This pattern is isolated in 1115. Notice the T shape is less evident. In so far as people look at faces, particularly female faces, using the T pattern of gaze, it forms a standard habit that aids in communication. The gaze pattern is missing in 1113. 1123 shows a frontal perspective of a person wearing a face mask with a fine cover of this invention, with aggregated eye gaze pattern 1124 of observers of that person's face, mask, and fine cover. This pattern is isolated in 1125. Notice the T shape pattern of gaze reappears, because observers have been guided by fine cover imagery. Although different fine covers may have different imagery and designs, they all direct gaze patterns down the center of the face.

[0103] FIG. 12 is a frontal perspective view of the embodiment of the fine cover shown in FIG. 2 being worn by a wearer. As can be seen, a first advantage to the fine cover 1201 according to the present invention is reducing the aggregation of pathogenic microbes on the surface of the respirator mask 1211 by the pathogenic microbes adherence to the material 1213 in fine cover 1201, and preventing the adhered pathogenic microbes from dislodging during fine cover doffing by the outer components 1203 and 1205 folding over top of inner components 1207 and 1209 without causing energy deformations, and thereby effectively sealing the inner components 1207 and 1209. The fine cover absorbs and/or adsorbs pathogenic microbes which do not dislodge when the fine cover is doffed, but are instead sealed. Then the fine cover may be placed in a dedicated disposal/reuse bag. Then the fine cover may be cleaned, tested, reused, or disposed. The fine cover absorbs and/or adsorbs pathogenic microbes which do not dislodge when the fine cover is doffed, but are instead sealed. Then the fine cover may be placed in a dedicated disposal/reuse bag. Then the fine cover may be cleaned, tested, reused, or disposed.

[0104] With reference to FIG. 13 a flow chart of a method for testing microbial content in a fine cover, as part of the fine cover cleaning, is illustrated. A single fine cover may be tested, or a batch process with multiple fine covers from an area may be tested. The cleaning process involves a cleaner 1302, after which one or more cleaned fine covers may be prepared for reuse 1305. A sample 1303 is extracted from the cleaner 1302. One or more cleaned fine covers 1305 may also be tested, for quality control. In this case the one or more cleaned fine covers are rinsed 1306, and a sample 1307 is extracted. Sample 1303 enters an isolating regime 1308, and sample 1307 enters the isolating regime 1308. Isolating regime 1308 proceeds to isolate prepared material 1321 and 1323. There are multiple approaches to isolating regime 1308. Molecular aggregates that include DNA or RNA are filtered using methods such as density gradient centrifugation, organic solvent extraction, and salt precipitation. Impurities may be removed by precipitation, centrifugation, and/or selectively eluted. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the description of the embodiment in FIG. 13 only represents one of many methods known, and is provided as an example.

[0105] For either the used fine cover sample 1303 or the cleaned fine cover sample 1307, isolating regime 1308 begins with releasing step 1310. First biological material, such as DNA, RNA, or other biological substances, is released from cells, tissue, or other substrate. This may involve one or more methods such as centrifugation, protein dissolving, disruption of cells, homogenization, and other methods known to those skilled in the art. Then it is necessary to remove impurities (such as proteins, lipids and carbohydrates) from the residue 1309 or 1311, purification step 1312. Some methods to remove impurities include density differentiation, organic-aqueous phase partitioning, selective salt precipitation, phenol extractions, binding and washing, and other methods known to those skilled in the art. The purification process may be a filtration process, including, but not limited to, electropositively charged glass wool, hollow-fibre ultrafiltration fibers, a positively charged filter media such as that made by adding silica gel to an aluminium hydroxide precipitate, magnetic beads, metal oxides, latex particles, silica-based particles or another process known to those skilled in the art. Purification can involve multiple steps, such as precipitation of crude DNA or RNA fractions followed by any one of several methods, such as adsorption on substrates, column chromatography, dissolving in a chaotropic solution, and other methods known to those skilled in the art.

[0106] The next step is concentration, 1314. Molecular material may be concentrated by one or more of the following methods, or other methods known to those skilled in the art: sodium acetate precipitation followed by ethanol wash; extraction and precipitation using phenol or acetone and/or precipitates such as PEG and NaCl or hydroxide; elutions such as nutrient broth, the addition of multivalent cations, metal salts or polymer coagulants, or skimmed-milk flocculation. Other techniques may be used, and the order of steps 1310, 1312, and 1314 may be altered or combined. For example, purification of molecular material process 1312 may involve acidic or alkaline modification of the aqueous solution of sample 1303 and/or 1307 to remove particles.

[0107] The result of concentration step 1314 of sample 1303 is collected as concentrate 1317; and/or the result of molecular concentration step 1314 of sample 1307 is collected as concentrate 1319. Concentrate 1317 or 1319 are readied for molecular detection, such as gene sequence testing. In many circumstances, concentrate 1317 or 1319 will be transported 1320 to a testing facility where amplification-competent DNA and/or RNA is prepared 1321. A molecular detection test 1323, such as a PCR test or loop-mediated isothermal amplification method, is used to determine the presence of molecular material of interest in sample 1303 and/or 1307.

[0108] The steps, processes, and methods outlined in FIG. 13 will be familiar to persons skilled in the art, which is why a fine mask of the present invention may serve as a convenient airborne pathogen detection system in medical facilities, many of which have staff and equipment capable of carrying these steps, processes, and methods to completion.

[0109] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The present invention is not limited to the above described embodiments, and it goes without saying that various modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0110] Individual elements or features of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment, but, where applicable, are interchangeable and can be used in a selected embodiment, even if not specifically shown or described. The same may also be varied in many ways. Such variations should not be regarded as a departure from the disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the disclosure.