A Comparative Model Study of Respiratory Period Prediction on Men Exercising While Wearing Masks

Four competing models were tested to determine which model assumptions were necessary to successfully predict respiratory period. Data from a number of sources were used to calibrate the models. All models were found to be sensitive to data inhomogeneity. Minimization of total respiratory power and inspiratory power was found to yield nearly equivalent results except where a limitation on exhalation time forced expiratory power to be nonminimal. Inclusion of negative work is a necessary basic assumption. Mask resistance appears to be only half as effective as internal resistance in determining respiratory period. Values for respiratory system parameters were determined and these varied with conditions under which data were collected.