CA2147963A1 - Positive/negative air pressure adaptor for use with respirators - Google Patents
Positive/negative air pressure adaptor for use with respiratorsInfo
- Publication number
- CA2147963A1 CA2147963A1 CA 2147963 CA2147963A CA2147963A1 CA 2147963 A1 CA2147963 A1 CA 2147963A1 CA 2147963 CA2147963 CA 2147963 CA 2147963 A CA2147963 A CA 2147963A CA 2147963 A1 CA2147963 A1 CA 2147963A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- positive
- air
- respirator
- pressure
- adaptor
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A62—LIFE-SAVING; FIRE-FIGHTING
- A62B—DEVICES, APPARATUS OR METHODS FOR LIFE-SAVING
- A62B18/00—Breathing masks or helmets, e.g. affording protection against chemical agents or for use at high altitudes or incorporating a pump or compressor for reducing the inhalation effort
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A62—LIFE-SAVING; FIRE-FIGHTING
- A62B—DEVICES, APPARATUS OR METHODS FOR LIFE-SAVING
- A62B9/00—Component parts for respiratory or breathing apparatus
- A62B9/02—Valves
Landscapes
- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Pulmonology (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Business, Economics & Management (AREA)
- Emergency Management (AREA)
- Respiratory Apparatuses And Protective Means (AREA)
Abstract
A positive/negative air pressure adaptor for a respirator system. The positive/negative air pressure adaptor has a port region for fluidically coupling a filter cartridge to a respirator. The adaptor has an inlet port for connecting to a positive pressure air source and a first check valve to restrict the flow of air from the port region to the filter cartridge. A second check valve may be provided torestrict the flow of air from the respirator to the port region. When the positive pressure air source is disconnected, the respirator system operates as a negative pressure respirator.
Description
DocketNo: 51629CAN2A
POSITIVE/NEGATIVE AIR PRESSURE ADAPTOR
FOR USE WITH RESPIRATORS
Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a co,..binalion positive and negative pressure respirator system, and more particularly, to a positive/negative air pressure adaptor for use with respirator systems.
Back~round of the Invention Respirators are used in a variety of hazardous environments, such as paint booths, grain storage facilities, laboratories, and m~m~f~ctllring f~ilities in which co~ are present. Respirator masks are typically adapted to receive a variety of filter cartridges or air supply connectors to provide a source of breathable air to the wearer so that the same face mask design may be used in a variety of di~el elll hazardous environments.
The two major classes of respirator systems are positive and negative pressure respirators. A positive pressure respirator typically includes a positive pressure air source such as an external pump or pressurized vessel that force clean air into the face mask. The positive pressure air source provides an excess of clean, breathable air to a face mask. The net positive pressure in the face maskdue to the positive pressure air source prevents ambient air from being drawn around the face seal of the mask.
One type of positive pressure air source for use with a positive pl es~ule respirator system is a powered air purifier respirator (PAPR). A
powered air purifying respirator typically includes a bleall,il-g tube from the face mask to a battery powered blower unit worn by the user. The blower unit typically contains a filter to remove col~l~."in~nt~ from the ambient air. Powered air purifying respirators have the advantage of allowing the user to move freely, without being tethered to an air line. However, powered air purifying respirators 21179~3 tend to be more expensive than continuous flow respirator systems. Additionally,powered air purifying respirators are battery operated and consequently can onlybe used for a limited period of time. Finally, powered air purifying respiratorsgenerally require a large bore ~liAmeter brealhing tube (applo~lnately 25 mm), 5 because battery operated blowers generally can not generate sufficient plessure for a smaller bore diAmetçr brealhing tube. These large bore di~meter brealhillg tubes can be cumbersome to the user.
Alternatively, the positive p~essure air source may be a colllpressor or pressure vessel connected to the user by an air line. Typically, these systems lo include a filter at the conlpressor to provide the user with breathable air.
However, for some applications, the air line may restrict the user's ability to pelrollll certain functions. Additionally, the air line may get kinked or the supply of pressurized air may be accidentally terrnin~te~, potentially exposing the users to Col~A~ l)A~
1S The other major class of respirators are called negative pressure respirators because the user's inhalation draws air through a filter cartridge into the face mask. The filter cartridge may contain a variety of filtering elements,such as blown microfibers or carbon-based systems for gas and vapor protection.
Negative pressure respirators have the advantage of not requiring the wearer to drag an air line or to wear an e,~l)ensi~e powered-air purifying respirator system.
The disadvantage of negative pressure respirators is that the user must utilize lung power to draw air through the filter media and the resllltin~ negative pressure in the face mask can potentially allow co~lA.";I~Ant~ to be drawn in around the face seal. Additionally, using respiratory lung power to draw air through the filter 2s media tends to heat up the face mask, ~;I.,aling discomfort for the wearer.Consequently, negative pressure respirators generally have a lower protection level than positive pres~ure respirators.
Summary of the Invention The present invention is directed to a positive/negative air pres~ure adaptor for a respirator system. The positive/negative air pressure adaptor has a 21~7963 port region for fluidically coupling a filter cartridge to a respirator. The adaptor has an inlet port for connecting to a positive pressure air source and a first check valve to restrict the flow of air from the port region to the filter cartridge. A
second check valve may be provided to restrict the flow of air from the respirator to the port region.
The positive/negative air pressure adaptor may include a porous structure interposed between the inlet pOn and the port region. The porous structure may operate as either a muffler or a diffuser, or both. The porous structure may be a porous polyrneric material, sintered metal such as brass, porous o ceramic, or other porous material.
The first check valve may be located on the filter cartridge or on the positive/negative air pressure adaptor. The second check valve may be located onan inhalation port on the positive/negative air pressure adaptor or on the respirator. The positive/negative air pressure adaptor and filter cartridge may be constructed as a single unit. Alternatively, the positive/negative air pressure adaptor and respirator may be constructed as a single unit.
An air line connects the inlet port to a positive pressure air source.
The positive pressure air source may include a portable powered air purifier or a continuous flow of supplied air from a colllplessor or pressurized vessel. The air line may include a quick disconnect to permit the wearer to be disconnected fromthe air line. When disconnected from the positive pressure air source, the respirator operates as a negative pressure respirator. A check valve is preferably provided between the quick disconnect and the face mask to restrict ambient air from being drawn into the respirator.
The present invention is directed to a con~indlion positive and negative pressure respirator system. The present respirator system permits both positive and negative pressure respirator capabilities on a single inhalation port on a face mask. The positive/negative air pressure adaptor has a port region for fluidically coupling an inhalation port on the face mask to at least one filter cartridge. A positive pressure air source may be connected to the adaptor. At least one filter cartridge may be attached to the positive/negative air pressure 21~7963 adaptor. A check valve is positioned to restrict the flow of air from the positive air source adaptor to the filter cartridge. A second check valve may be located proxilllate the face mask to restrict the flow of air from the face mask çh~mh~r to the positive/negative air pressure adaptor.
The method of the present invention is directed to connecting a positive pressure air source to an adaptor interposed between a filter cartridge and a respirator. The flow of air from the positive/negative air pressure adaptor to the filter cartridge is restricted. The positive pressure air source may then be disconnected from the positive/negative air pressure adaptor, so that the system0 operates as a negative pressure respirator. The method may also include recomle~;ling the positive pressure air source to the adaptor at a later time so that the system operates as a positive pressure respirator.
Definitions used in this application:
"Ambient air" means environm~nt~l air;
"Check valve" means any device for automatically limiting flow to a single direction.
"Co~ " means a chemical in gaseous, vaporous, or particulate form that is hazardous to breath.
"External environlnell~" means ambient air external to the respirator;
"Face mask" means a full or partial face covering with a seal engaged with the face, neck and/or head of a user.
"Overmolding" means pelrolllling a molding process on an item to add additional molded structure.
"Positive pressure air source" means a device that forces breathable air to a respirator, inc]u-lin~ a portable air pump, such as a powered air purifyingrespirator (PAPR), a stationary air pump or complessor, or pressurized vessel.
Brief Description of the Drawings Figure 1 is a sç~em~tic illustration of a respirator system with a positive/negative air pressure adaptor connected to a positive pressure air source;
Figure 2 is a side view of the respirator of Figure l;
~I'17963 Figure 3 is a cutaway pe,~pe~ e view of a positive/negative air pressure adaptor;
Figure 4 is a side sectional view of a respirator system with a positive/negative air pressure adaptor connected to a positive pressure air source;
Figure S is the re~ alor system of Figure 4 in which the positive pressure air source has been terminqted or reduced;
Figures 6A and 6B are side sectional views of a positive/negative air pressure adaptor before and after overmoulding, respe~ ely;
Figures 7A and 7B are perspective views of a Y-fitting for the present o positive/negative air pressure adaptor system before and after overmoulding, respectively;
Figure 8 is an alternate configuration of the respirator system of Figure l;
Figure 9 is a side view ofthe respirator system of Figure 8;
1S Figure 10 is an alternate embodiment ofthe respirator of Figure 1 with the filter cartridges removed; and Figure 11 is an alternate full face mask respirator system with a positive/negative air pressure adaptor connected to a positive pressure air source.
Detailed Description ofthe Plt;r~;lled Embodiment Figure 1 is a perspective view of a combination positive and negative pressure respirator system 20. A pair of positive/negative air pressure adapters22, 24 are connected to a partial face mask 26 at respective inhalation ports (see Figure 4). The face mask 26 has an exhaust port 28 with a check valve (not shown) and straps 30 for ~qtt~qçhment to a user. The partial face mask 26 generally encloses the user's mouth and nose. It will be understood that the present invention may be used with any style face mask.
A pair of filter cartridges 32, 34 are att~q.~hed to the adapters 22, 24, respectively. An air line 36 with a Y-connector 37 comlecls the adapters 22, 24 with a positive pressure air source 38. Utilizing a pair of adapters 22, 24 and filter cartridges 32, 34 keeps the respirator 20 generally evenly balanced. However, it 21~7963 will be understood that the present invention encomp~cses a respirator system with a single adaptor and filter cartridge.
A check valve 40 and a quick release mPçh~nicm 42 are provided on the air line 36 to allow the user to quickly disconnect from the positive pressure s air source 38. The check valve 40 prevents ambient air from being drawn into the face mask 26 once air line 36 is disconnected from the positive pressure air source 38. It will be understood that the check valve 40 may be located anywhere along the air line 36 b~ween the quick release ",eç~ icm 42 and the respirator system 20. A check valve known under the trade ~eci~n~tion ICV Series from Generant o Company of Butler, New Jersey, is known to be suitable for this purpose. The air line 36 or check valve 40 may contain a low pressure alarm to warn the user thatthe air flow from the positive pressure air source 38 has been reduced below some predetermined level and that the filter cartridge 32, 34 is providing at least aportion of their air.
1S Figure 2 is a side view of the respirator system 20 of Figure 1 showing the air line 36 elctçn~iinp~ forward from the face mask 26. A belt clip 39 is provided for ~tt~çhin~ the air line 36 to the user so that the respirator system 20 is not inadvertently pulled from the user's face (not shown).
Figure 3 is a sectional perspective view of the positive/negative air 20 pressure adapters 22, 24 with arrows illustrating the flow of air from the air line 36 into an air distribution channel 50. In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 3, the air distribution channel 50 extends generally around a port region 52, as will be tiiccl.cse~ in detail below. However, it will be understood that a variety of air distribution cha-l-be- configurations may be utilized without departing from the2s sGope of the present invention. A bayonet connector 60 is provided plo~ -ate an inhalation port 68 on an àdaptor housing 23.
The supplied air illustrated by the arrows enters the air distribution channel 50 and passes radially through a porous member 54 into the port region 52. The porous member 54 may be constructed of a variety of porous materials 30 such as sintered metal (for example brass), porous poly~ropylene or acetal, porous ceramic or glass bead structure, or a variety of other porous materials. A porous 2~479~3 polyethylene with an average pore size of 100 microns rr~mlf~ctured by General Polymeric of P~e~lin~ Pem~syl~ania is known to be suitable for this purpose.
Air Line Noise ~ttçml~fion Test Respirator masks were tested for the amount of noise generated due to the air flow through the air line, adapter, valves, and f~cçm~Q~ haldwale systemin a quiet laboratory setting with carpeting and acoustic ceiling trç~tm~nt The masks tested were fastened to a ~ e~ in head and a microphone for sound pickup was positioned 3.5 cm from the head surface at a location corresponding 0 to a leplesell~a~ e ear. The sound generated by the air flow was acquired utili7:ing a microphone, preamplifier, and signal amplifier Model 2610 available from Bruel& Kjaer, Inc. (Naerum, Denmark) with "A" wçi~hting of the signal. The signal was analyzed ltili7:in~ a Model 3561A Dynamic Signal Analyzer available form Hewlett Packard Co. (Everett, WA) set at the 1/3 octave mode with rms. (root mean square) averaging. The analysis bandwidth was the frequencies from 12.5 Hz to 20 Khz. The microphone, preamplifier, and amplifier were calibrated using a Model 4230 sound level calibrator available from Bruel & Kjaer, Inc. Half-maskrespirator 3M Brand Easi-Air (TM) 7200 available from 3M Company of St. Paul, Minnesota was tested at an air flow of 3.304 liters/second with both a 3M W-3187 airline adapter and the instant invention adapter, with and without the muffler 54. Porous member 54 had an outside diameter of 4.0 cm, an inside diameter of 3.3 cm and a height of 1.1 cm. Sound pressure levels measured at themicrophone are listed in Table 1.
21~7963 Sound Pressure level Mea~ule",enls l~f , ' 250 Hz 500 Hz 1 KHz 2 KHz 4 Khz 10 Khz 20 Khz T " ~ d C- r~ ot~ (dB)(dB) (dB) (dB) (dB) (dB) (dB) Sound Pressure level (dB) 7200 H~lf 56 62 66 89 85 85 74 94.5 Mask with adapter 7200 Half 39 54 64 71 73 98 65 99.7 Mask with iv~
adapter without mumer 7200 Half 39 44 51 63 67 61 51 73.5 Mask with tiV~
adapter with mumer These results demonstrate that the muffler provides a typical 20 dB
5 reduction ofthe integrated sound pressllre level over the frequency range of 12.5 Hz through 20 kHz. This corresponds to a noise level of one quarter the amount present with adapters without the muffler material. In addition, the porous member 54 acts as a diffuser to dissipate the intensity of the air flow, red~lçing the m~ximl-m velocity of the air entering the face mask 26, while providing a 0 continuous flow of supplied air in excess of the user's requirements.
Figure 4 is a side sectional view of a positive/negative air pressure adaptor 22 or 24 fluidically coupling a filter cartridge 32 or 34 to a single inhalation port 62 on the face mask 26. The filter cartridge 32 or 34 is attached by the bayonet connector 60 at the inhalation port 68 on the adaptor 22 or 24 (see 15 also Figure 3). A co~ ,onding bayonet connector 60' is also provided pro~imate the inhalation port 62 on the face mask 26. In the p,eîelled embodiment, the bayonet connectors 60, 60' are identical so that a filter cartridge 32, 34 may be attached directly to the face mask 26. However, it will be understood that for some applications it may be desirable to alter one of the bayonet connectors 60,20 60' to limit the type of components that may be att~ched thereto. Seals 64, 66 ~7963 g preferably are interposed between the adapters 22, 24 and the filter cartridge 32, 34 and face mask 26. The seals may be constructed of a variety of resilient materials, such as closed cell ur~lhane rubber or silicone may be suitable for this purpose.
Although the plerelled embodiment discloses bayonel connectors 60, 60', it will be understood that the present invention is not limited to the type of connector used to fluidically couple the various components 22, 24, 26, 32, 34.
Other types of conne~ilors uniquely adapted to receive a threaded Illelllber which is adapted to thread into a corresponding integral cylinder sealed with or without a 0 gasket, both pellllal-elll and det~h~hle, may be colllbined without departing from the scope of the present invention. Additionally, some of the components may be constructed as a single unit. For example, the filter cartridge 32, 34 and the adaptor 22, 24 may be a single unit. Altematively, the inhalation port 62 on theface mask 26 and the adapters 22, 24 may be constructed as a single unit.
As illustrated in Figure 4, once the air passes the porous member 54 and enters into the port region 52, a positive pressure valve 66 restricts air from passing through the inhalation port 68 and into the filter cartridges 32, 34. The positive pressure valve 66 is attached to a support 70 which extends generally into the opening fommed at the inhalation port 68. The pressure of the air forces thepositive pressure valve 66 against a valve seat 72 on the adaptor housing 23 andenhances the seal ofthe valve. In the event that the positive pressure air source 38 does not provide adaquate air flow for the user's need, the inhalation of the user will create a net negative pressure in the face mask chamber 84. The net negative pressure draws the valve 66 off of the valve seat 72 and allows air to be drawn through the cartridge 32, 34. In the embodiment disclosed in Figure 4, the positive pressure valve 66 is a diaphragm valve constructed from a highly flexible material such as silicone rubber. It will be understood that a variety of check valve configurations may be suitable for this purpose and that the present invention is not limited by the particular type of check valve disclosed.
An inhalation valve 80 located across an opening 82 pro;~illlate the inhalation port 62 permits the air in the port region 52 to enter a face mask 21~7963 chamber 84 defined by the face mask 26 and the face of the user (not shown).
The inhalation valve 82 may also be constructed of a highly flexible material such as silicone rubber. It will be understood that the inhalation valve 80 may alternatively be located on the adaptor housing 23. The net positive pressure in5 the face mask ch~llbel 84 during exhalation by the user forces the inhalation valve 80 against a valve seat 86. The excess pressure in the face mask chamber 84 is released through the exhaust port 28 (see Figure 1).
The positive pressure air source 38 may be reduced or termin~ted for a variety of reasons. For example, malfunction of a colllpl essor, accidental kink or o cut of the air line 36, or the user's intentional disconnect of the air line 36 to provide greater mobility. The arrows in Figure 5 illustrate the air flow through the respirator system 20 if the positive pressure air source 38 is reduced below theuser's requil elllelll~ or termin~ted The lack of positive pressure in the port region 52 permits the positive pressure valve 66 to be lifted from its valve seat 72 to1S allow air flow through the filter cartridge 32, 34. In the configuration illustrated in Figure 5, the respirator system 20 is ope~ dLing as a negative pressure system which relies on the user's lung power to draw air through openings 90 in the filter cartridge 32, 34, through the filter media 92 and into the face mask chamber 84.As di~cl~ssed in connection with Figure 4, the inhalation valve 80 is forced against 20 its valve seat 86 when the user exhales so that the excess pressure in the face mask challlber 84 is expelled through the exhaust port 28 (see Figure 1).
In the event the user disconnects the air line 36 from the positive pressure air source 38, the check valve 40 in the air line 36 prevents co~ ted air from being drawn up the air line when the respirator system 20 is operating in 25 the negative pressure mode. In the embodiment disclosed in Figure 1, the check valve 40 is located proximate a quick release mecl-~ .., 42 that permits the user to disconnect the respirator system 20 from the positive air source 38.
Figures 6A and 6B illustrate an exemplary method of m~nllf~ctllring the positive/negative air pressure adapters 22, 24. The primary components of the adaptor are a base 100, a cover 102, the porous member 54, and gaskets 55. The base 100 has a female bayonet connector 60F for çng~gçment with the bayonet 2I~7963 connector 60' on the face mask 26. The base 100 also has a barbed connector 104 with a ferule or some acceptable f~t~ning Inecl-Al~ ~... for relAi~ g the air line 36.
A strain relief spring and relA;n;np. clip may be added to retain the air line 36 to the barbed connector 104. The base 100 and cover 102 may be constructed from a variety of polymeric materials, such as polyethylene, poly~ ropylene, poly~yl elle.
Poly~lopylene 6323 available from Himont of Minneapolis, Minnesota has been found suitable for this purpose.
The air line 36 generally has a 6 mm inner diameter which corresponds to the outside rli~meter ofthe barbed connector 104, although air lines with 3 mm 0 inner diameters may also be suitable for some purposes. For applications ~ltili~ing a portable powered-air purifying respirator, an air lines having a 25 mm bore size is generally required. The outside diameter ofthe barbed connector 104 may be m~nllf~ctured to accommodate any size air line. Tubing constructed from a 50/50 blend of Shell Kraton G2701 and G2705 available from Shell Chemical Co~"pany of Houston, Texas may be used for this purpose.
Figure 6B illustrates an exemplary method for attaçhing the air line 36 to the connector 104, and creating a hermetic seal between the base 100 and cover 102. The adaptor housing 23 attaclled to the air line 36 are placed into a mold where it is overrnolded with a polymeric material 106. Although a variety of polymeric materials 104 may be used for this purpose, it has been found that thecompatibility of certain polymeric materials result in a chemical bond which provides ideal mechanical ~llenglll and hermetic sealing. For example, a polymeric material sold under the trade name Monprene 2850M, available from Quality Service Technology of St. Albans, Vermont, Kraton identified above or polypropylene are particularly coll,palil)le with a base and cover 100, 102 constructed from polypropylene and an air line 36 constructed from Kraton or Monoprene.
Figures 7A and 7B illustrate use of the present overmoulding technique to forrn a Y-connector 37 for connection to a pair of adapters 22, 24. A Y-fitting 110 is attached to three sections of air line 36. The Y-fitting 110 and air lines 36 2147~6~
are then overmoulded as illustrated in Figure 7B using the materials 106 ~ cussed above.
Figures 8 and 9 illustrate an alternate embodiment of the respirator system 20 in which the air lines 36 are configured to extend towards the rear ofs the face mask 26. As illustrated in Figure 9, the air line 36 extends towards the rear of the user so as to not interfere with the user's activities.
Figure 10 is another alternate embodiment of the respirator system 20 in which the filter canridges 32, 34 have been removed, and valve caps 112, 114 have been substituted. In the configuration illustrated in Figure 10, the respirator 0 system 20 operates only as a positive pressure respirator system generally corresponding to Figure 1.
Figure 11 is an alternate full face mask respirator system 20' with a pair of positive/negative air pressure adapters 22', 24' connected to a positive pressure air source 38. The full face mask 20' typically encloses the mouth, nose and eyes 5 of the user.
It will be understood that the exemplary embodiments in no way limit the scope of the invention. Other modifications of the invention will be apparen~
to those skilled in the an in view of the folegoing descriptions. These descriptions are int.ontled to provide specific examples of embodiments which clearly disclose 20 the invention. Accordingly, the invention is not limited to the described embodiments or to the use of specific elements, dimensions, materials or configurations contained therein. All alternative modifications and variations of the present invention which fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims are covered.
2s
POSITIVE/NEGATIVE AIR PRESSURE ADAPTOR
FOR USE WITH RESPIRATORS
Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a co,..binalion positive and negative pressure respirator system, and more particularly, to a positive/negative air pressure adaptor for use with respirator systems.
Back~round of the Invention Respirators are used in a variety of hazardous environments, such as paint booths, grain storage facilities, laboratories, and m~m~f~ctllring f~ilities in which co~ are present. Respirator masks are typically adapted to receive a variety of filter cartridges or air supply connectors to provide a source of breathable air to the wearer so that the same face mask design may be used in a variety of di~el elll hazardous environments.
The two major classes of respirator systems are positive and negative pressure respirators. A positive pressure respirator typically includes a positive pressure air source such as an external pump or pressurized vessel that force clean air into the face mask. The positive pressure air source provides an excess of clean, breathable air to a face mask. The net positive pressure in the face maskdue to the positive pressure air source prevents ambient air from being drawn around the face seal of the mask.
One type of positive pressure air source for use with a positive pl es~ule respirator system is a powered air purifier respirator (PAPR). A
powered air purifying respirator typically includes a bleall,il-g tube from the face mask to a battery powered blower unit worn by the user. The blower unit typically contains a filter to remove col~l~."in~nt~ from the ambient air. Powered air purifying respirators have the advantage of allowing the user to move freely, without being tethered to an air line. However, powered air purifying respirators 21179~3 tend to be more expensive than continuous flow respirator systems. Additionally,powered air purifying respirators are battery operated and consequently can onlybe used for a limited period of time. Finally, powered air purifying respiratorsgenerally require a large bore ~liAmeter brealhing tube (applo~lnately 25 mm), 5 because battery operated blowers generally can not generate sufficient plessure for a smaller bore diAmetçr brealhing tube. These large bore di~meter brealhillg tubes can be cumbersome to the user.
Alternatively, the positive p~essure air source may be a colllpressor or pressure vessel connected to the user by an air line. Typically, these systems lo include a filter at the conlpressor to provide the user with breathable air.
However, for some applications, the air line may restrict the user's ability to pelrollll certain functions. Additionally, the air line may get kinked or the supply of pressurized air may be accidentally terrnin~te~, potentially exposing the users to Col~A~ l)A~
1S The other major class of respirators are called negative pressure respirators because the user's inhalation draws air through a filter cartridge into the face mask. The filter cartridge may contain a variety of filtering elements,such as blown microfibers or carbon-based systems for gas and vapor protection.
Negative pressure respirators have the advantage of not requiring the wearer to drag an air line or to wear an e,~l)ensi~e powered-air purifying respirator system.
The disadvantage of negative pressure respirators is that the user must utilize lung power to draw air through the filter media and the resllltin~ negative pressure in the face mask can potentially allow co~lA.";I~Ant~ to be drawn in around the face seal. Additionally, using respiratory lung power to draw air through the filter 2s media tends to heat up the face mask, ~;I.,aling discomfort for the wearer.Consequently, negative pressure respirators generally have a lower protection level than positive pres~ure respirators.
Summary of the Invention The present invention is directed to a positive/negative air pres~ure adaptor for a respirator system. The positive/negative air pressure adaptor has a 21~7963 port region for fluidically coupling a filter cartridge to a respirator. The adaptor has an inlet port for connecting to a positive pressure air source and a first check valve to restrict the flow of air from the port region to the filter cartridge. A
second check valve may be provided to restrict the flow of air from the respirator to the port region.
The positive/negative air pressure adaptor may include a porous structure interposed between the inlet pOn and the port region. The porous structure may operate as either a muffler or a diffuser, or both. The porous structure may be a porous polyrneric material, sintered metal such as brass, porous o ceramic, or other porous material.
The first check valve may be located on the filter cartridge or on the positive/negative air pressure adaptor. The second check valve may be located onan inhalation port on the positive/negative air pressure adaptor or on the respirator. The positive/negative air pressure adaptor and filter cartridge may be constructed as a single unit. Alternatively, the positive/negative air pressure adaptor and respirator may be constructed as a single unit.
An air line connects the inlet port to a positive pressure air source.
The positive pressure air source may include a portable powered air purifier or a continuous flow of supplied air from a colllplessor or pressurized vessel. The air line may include a quick disconnect to permit the wearer to be disconnected fromthe air line. When disconnected from the positive pressure air source, the respirator operates as a negative pressure respirator. A check valve is preferably provided between the quick disconnect and the face mask to restrict ambient air from being drawn into the respirator.
The present invention is directed to a con~indlion positive and negative pressure respirator system. The present respirator system permits both positive and negative pressure respirator capabilities on a single inhalation port on a face mask. The positive/negative air pressure adaptor has a port region for fluidically coupling an inhalation port on the face mask to at least one filter cartridge. A positive pressure air source may be connected to the adaptor. At least one filter cartridge may be attached to the positive/negative air pressure 21~7963 adaptor. A check valve is positioned to restrict the flow of air from the positive air source adaptor to the filter cartridge. A second check valve may be located proxilllate the face mask to restrict the flow of air from the face mask çh~mh~r to the positive/negative air pressure adaptor.
The method of the present invention is directed to connecting a positive pressure air source to an adaptor interposed between a filter cartridge and a respirator. The flow of air from the positive/negative air pressure adaptor to the filter cartridge is restricted. The positive pressure air source may then be disconnected from the positive/negative air pressure adaptor, so that the system0 operates as a negative pressure respirator. The method may also include recomle~;ling the positive pressure air source to the adaptor at a later time so that the system operates as a positive pressure respirator.
Definitions used in this application:
"Ambient air" means environm~nt~l air;
"Check valve" means any device for automatically limiting flow to a single direction.
"Co~ " means a chemical in gaseous, vaporous, or particulate form that is hazardous to breath.
"External environlnell~" means ambient air external to the respirator;
"Face mask" means a full or partial face covering with a seal engaged with the face, neck and/or head of a user.
"Overmolding" means pelrolllling a molding process on an item to add additional molded structure.
"Positive pressure air source" means a device that forces breathable air to a respirator, inc]u-lin~ a portable air pump, such as a powered air purifyingrespirator (PAPR), a stationary air pump or complessor, or pressurized vessel.
Brief Description of the Drawings Figure 1 is a sç~em~tic illustration of a respirator system with a positive/negative air pressure adaptor connected to a positive pressure air source;
Figure 2 is a side view of the respirator of Figure l;
~I'17963 Figure 3 is a cutaway pe,~pe~ e view of a positive/negative air pressure adaptor;
Figure 4 is a side sectional view of a respirator system with a positive/negative air pressure adaptor connected to a positive pressure air source;
Figure S is the re~ alor system of Figure 4 in which the positive pressure air source has been terminqted or reduced;
Figures 6A and 6B are side sectional views of a positive/negative air pressure adaptor before and after overmoulding, respe~ ely;
Figures 7A and 7B are perspective views of a Y-fitting for the present o positive/negative air pressure adaptor system before and after overmoulding, respectively;
Figure 8 is an alternate configuration of the respirator system of Figure l;
Figure 9 is a side view ofthe respirator system of Figure 8;
1S Figure 10 is an alternate embodiment ofthe respirator of Figure 1 with the filter cartridges removed; and Figure 11 is an alternate full face mask respirator system with a positive/negative air pressure adaptor connected to a positive pressure air source.
Detailed Description ofthe Plt;r~;lled Embodiment Figure 1 is a perspective view of a combination positive and negative pressure respirator system 20. A pair of positive/negative air pressure adapters22, 24 are connected to a partial face mask 26 at respective inhalation ports (see Figure 4). The face mask 26 has an exhaust port 28 with a check valve (not shown) and straps 30 for ~qtt~qçhment to a user. The partial face mask 26 generally encloses the user's mouth and nose. It will be understood that the present invention may be used with any style face mask.
A pair of filter cartridges 32, 34 are att~q.~hed to the adapters 22, 24, respectively. An air line 36 with a Y-connector 37 comlecls the adapters 22, 24 with a positive pressure air source 38. Utilizing a pair of adapters 22, 24 and filter cartridges 32, 34 keeps the respirator 20 generally evenly balanced. However, it 21~7963 will be understood that the present invention encomp~cses a respirator system with a single adaptor and filter cartridge.
A check valve 40 and a quick release mPçh~nicm 42 are provided on the air line 36 to allow the user to quickly disconnect from the positive pressure s air source 38. The check valve 40 prevents ambient air from being drawn into the face mask 26 once air line 36 is disconnected from the positive pressure air source 38. It will be understood that the check valve 40 may be located anywhere along the air line 36 b~ween the quick release ",eç~ icm 42 and the respirator system 20. A check valve known under the trade ~eci~n~tion ICV Series from Generant o Company of Butler, New Jersey, is known to be suitable for this purpose. The air line 36 or check valve 40 may contain a low pressure alarm to warn the user thatthe air flow from the positive pressure air source 38 has been reduced below some predetermined level and that the filter cartridge 32, 34 is providing at least aportion of their air.
1S Figure 2 is a side view of the respirator system 20 of Figure 1 showing the air line 36 elctçn~iinp~ forward from the face mask 26. A belt clip 39 is provided for ~tt~çhin~ the air line 36 to the user so that the respirator system 20 is not inadvertently pulled from the user's face (not shown).
Figure 3 is a sectional perspective view of the positive/negative air 20 pressure adapters 22, 24 with arrows illustrating the flow of air from the air line 36 into an air distribution channel 50. In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 3, the air distribution channel 50 extends generally around a port region 52, as will be tiiccl.cse~ in detail below. However, it will be understood that a variety of air distribution cha-l-be- configurations may be utilized without departing from the2s sGope of the present invention. A bayonet connector 60 is provided plo~ -ate an inhalation port 68 on an àdaptor housing 23.
The supplied air illustrated by the arrows enters the air distribution channel 50 and passes radially through a porous member 54 into the port region 52. The porous member 54 may be constructed of a variety of porous materials 30 such as sintered metal (for example brass), porous poly~ropylene or acetal, porous ceramic or glass bead structure, or a variety of other porous materials. A porous 2~479~3 polyethylene with an average pore size of 100 microns rr~mlf~ctured by General Polymeric of P~e~lin~ Pem~syl~ania is known to be suitable for this purpose.
Air Line Noise ~ttçml~fion Test Respirator masks were tested for the amount of noise generated due to the air flow through the air line, adapter, valves, and f~cçm~Q~ haldwale systemin a quiet laboratory setting with carpeting and acoustic ceiling trç~tm~nt The masks tested were fastened to a ~ e~ in head and a microphone for sound pickup was positioned 3.5 cm from the head surface at a location corresponding 0 to a leplesell~a~ e ear. The sound generated by the air flow was acquired utili7:ing a microphone, preamplifier, and signal amplifier Model 2610 available from Bruel& Kjaer, Inc. (Naerum, Denmark) with "A" wçi~hting of the signal. The signal was analyzed ltili7:in~ a Model 3561A Dynamic Signal Analyzer available form Hewlett Packard Co. (Everett, WA) set at the 1/3 octave mode with rms. (root mean square) averaging. The analysis bandwidth was the frequencies from 12.5 Hz to 20 Khz. The microphone, preamplifier, and amplifier were calibrated using a Model 4230 sound level calibrator available from Bruel & Kjaer, Inc. Half-maskrespirator 3M Brand Easi-Air (TM) 7200 available from 3M Company of St. Paul, Minnesota was tested at an air flow of 3.304 liters/second with both a 3M W-3187 airline adapter and the instant invention adapter, with and without the muffler 54. Porous member 54 had an outside diameter of 4.0 cm, an inside diameter of 3.3 cm and a height of 1.1 cm. Sound pressure levels measured at themicrophone are listed in Table 1.
21~7963 Sound Pressure level Mea~ule",enls l~f , ' 250 Hz 500 Hz 1 KHz 2 KHz 4 Khz 10 Khz 20 Khz T " ~ d C- r~ ot~ (dB)(dB) (dB) (dB) (dB) (dB) (dB) Sound Pressure level (dB) 7200 H~lf 56 62 66 89 85 85 74 94.5 Mask with adapter 7200 Half 39 54 64 71 73 98 65 99.7 Mask with iv~
adapter without mumer 7200 Half 39 44 51 63 67 61 51 73.5 Mask with tiV~
adapter with mumer These results demonstrate that the muffler provides a typical 20 dB
5 reduction ofthe integrated sound pressllre level over the frequency range of 12.5 Hz through 20 kHz. This corresponds to a noise level of one quarter the amount present with adapters without the muffler material. In addition, the porous member 54 acts as a diffuser to dissipate the intensity of the air flow, red~lçing the m~ximl-m velocity of the air entering the face mask 26, while providing a 0 continuous flow of supplied air in excess of the user's requirements.
Figure 4 is a side sectional view of a positive/negative air pressure adaptor 22 or 24 fluidically coupling a filter cartridge 32 or 34 to a single inhalation port 62 on the face mask 26. The filter cartridge 32 or 34 is attached by the bayonet connector 60 at the inhalation port 68 on the adaptor 22 or 24 (see 15 also Figure 3). A co~ ,onding bayonet connector 60' is also provided pro~imate the inhalation port 62 on the face mask 26. In the p,eîelled embodiment, the bayonet connectors 60, 60' are identical so that a filter cartridge 32, 34 may be attached directly to the face mask 26. However, it will be understood that for some applications it may be desirable to alter one of the bayonet connectors 60,20 60' to limit the type of components that may be att~ched thereto. Seals 64, 66 ~7963 g preferably are interposed between the adapters 22, 24 and the filter cartridge 32, 34 and face mask 26. The seals may be constructed of a variety of resilient materials, such as closed cell ur~lhane rubber or silicone may be suitable for this purpose.
Although the plerelled embodiment discloses bayonel connectors 60, 60', it will be understood that the present invention is not limited to the type of connector used to fluidically couple the various components 22, 24, 26, 32, 34.
Other types of conne~ilors uniquely adapted to receive a threaded Illelllber which is adapted to thread into a corresponding integral cylinder sealed with or without a 0 gasket, both pellllal-elll and det~h~hle, may be colllbined without departing from the scope of the present invention. Additionally, some of the components may be constructed as a single unit. For example, the filter cartridge 32, 34 and the adaptor 22, 24 may be a single unit. Altematively, the inhalation port 62 on theface mask 26 and the adapters 22, 24 may be constructed as a single unit.
As illustrated in Figure 4, once the air passes the porous member 54 and enters into the port region 52, a positive pressure valve 66 restricts air from passing through the inhalation port 68 and into the filter cartridges 32, 34. The positive pressure valve 66 is attached to a support 70 which extends generally into the opening fommed at the inhalation port 68. The pressure of the air forces thepositive pressure valve 66 against a valve seat 72 on the adaptor housing 23 andenhances the seal ofthe valve. In the event that the positive pressure air source 38 does not provide adaquate air flow for the user's need, the inhalation of the user will create a net negative pressure in the face mask chamber 84. The net negative pressure draws the valve 66 off of the valve seat 72 and allows air to be drawn through the cartridge 32, 34. In the embodiment disclosed in Figure 4, the positive pressure valve 66 is a diaphragm valve constructed from a highly flexible material such as silicone rubber. It will be understood that a variety of check valve configurations may be suitable for this purpose and that the present invention is not limited by the particular type of check valve disclosed.
An inhalation valve 80 located across an opening 82 pro;~illlate the inhalation port 62 permits the air in the port region 52 to enter a face mask 21~7963 chamber 84 defined by the face mask 26 and the face of the user (not shown).
The inhalation valve 82 may also be constructed of a highly flexible material such as silicone rubber. It will be understood that the inhalation valve 80 may alternatively be located on the adaptor housing 23. The net positive pressure in5 the face mask ch~llbel 84 during exhalation by the user forces the inhalation valve 80 against a valve seat 86. The excess pressure in the face mask chamber 84 is released through the exhaust port 28 (see Figure 1).
The positive pressure air source 38 may be reduced or termin~ted for a variety of reasons. For example, malfunction of a colllpl essor, accidental kink or o cut of the air line 36, or the user's intentional disconnect of the air line 36 to provide greater mobility. The arrows in Figure 5 illustrate the air flow through the respirator system 20 if the positive pressure air source 38 is reduced below theuser's requil elllelll~ or termin~ted The lack of positive pressure in the port region 52 permits the positive pressure valve 66 to be lifted from its valve seat 72 to1S allow air flow through the filter cartridge 32, 34. In the configuration illustrated in Figure 5, the respirator system 20 is ope~ dLing as a negative pressure system which relies on the user's lung power to draw air through openings 90 in the filter cartridge 32, 34, through the filter media 92 and into the face mask chamber 84.As di~cl~ssed in connection with Figure 4, the inhalation valve 80 is forced against 20 its valve seat 86 when the user exhales so that the excess pressure in the face mask challlber 84 is expelled through the exhaust port 28 (see Figure 1).
In the event the user disconnects the air line 36 from the positive pressure air source 38, the check valve 40 in the air line 36 prevents co~ ted air from being drawn up the air line when the respirator system 20 is operating in 25 the negative pressure mode. In the embodiment disclosed in Figure 1, the check valve 40 is located proximate a quick release mecl-~ .., 42 that permits the user to disconnect the respirator system 20 from the positive air source 38.
Figures 6A and 6B illustrate an exemplary method of m~nllf~ctllring the positive/negative air pressure adapters 22, 24. The primary components of the adaptor are a base 100, a cover 102, the porous member 54, and gaskets 55. The base 100 has a female bayonet connector 60F for çng~gçment with the bayonet 2I~7963 connector 60' on the face mask 26. The base 100 also has a barbed connector 104 with a ferule or some acceptable f~t~ning Inecl-Al~ ~... for relAi~ g the air line 36.
A strain relief spring and relA;n;np. clip may be added to retain the air line 36 to the barbed connector 104. The base 100 and cover 102 may be constructed from a variety of polymeric materials, such as polyethylene, poly~ ropylene, poly~yl elle.
Poly~lopylene 6323 available from Himont of Minneapolis, Minnesota has been found suitable for this purpose.
The air line 36 generally has a 6 mm inner diameter which corresponds to the outside rli~meter ofthe barbed connector 104, although air lines with 3 mm 0 inner diameters may also be suitable for some purposes. For applications ~ltili~ing a portable powered-air purifying respirator, an air lines having a 25 mm bore size is generally required. The outside diameter ofthe barbed connector 104 may be m~nllf~ctured to accommodate any size air line. Tubing constructed from a 50/50 blend of Shell Kraton G2701 and G2705 available from Shell Chemical Co~"pany of Houston, Texas may be used for this purpose.
Figure 6B illustrates an exemplary method for attaçhing the air line 36 to the connector 104, and creating a hermetic seal between the base 100 and cover 102. The adaptor housing 23 attaclled to the air line 36 are placed into a mold where it is overrnolded with a polymeric material 106. Although a variety of polymeric materials 104 may be used for this purpose, it has been found that thecompatibility of certain polymeric materials result in a chemical bond which provides ideal mechanical ~llenglll and hermetic sealing. For example, a polymeric material sold under the trade name Monprene 2850M, available from Quality Service Technology of St. Albans, Vermont, Kraton identified above or polypropylene are particularly coll,palil)le with a base and cover 100, 102 constructed from polypropylene and an air line 36 constructed from Kraton or Monoprene.
Figures 7A and 7B illustrate use of the present overmoulding technique to forrn a Y-connector 37 for connection to a pair of adapters 22, 24. A Y-fitting 110 is attached to three sections of air line 36. The Y-fitting 110 and air lines 36 2147~6~
are then overmoulded as illustrated in Figure 7B using the materials 106 ~ cussed above.
Figures 8 and 9 illustrate an alternate embodiment of the respirator system 20 in which the air lines 36 are configured to extend towards the rear ofs the face mask 26. As illustrated in Figure 9, the air line 36 extends towards the rear of the user so as to not interfere with the user's activities.
Figure 10 is another alternate embodiment of the respirator system 20 in which the filter canridges 32, 34 have been removed, and valve caps 112, 114 have been substituted. In the configuration illustrated in Figure 10, the respirator 0 system 20 operates only as a positive pressure respirator system generally corresponding to Figure 1.
Figure 11 is an alternate full face mask respirator system 20' with a pair of positive/negative air pressure adapters 22', 24' connected to a positive pressure air source 38. The full face mask 20' typically encloses the mouth, nose and eyes 5 of the user.
It will be understood that the exemplary embodiments in no way limit the scope of the invention. Other modifications of the invention will be apparen~
to those skilled in the an in view of the folegoing descriptions. These descriptions are int.ontled to provide specific examples of embodiments which clearly disclose 20 the invention. Accordingly, the invention is not limited to the described embodiments or to the use of specific elements, dimensions, materials or configurations contained therein. All alternative modifications and variations of the present invention which fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims are covered.
2s
Claims (26)
1. A positive/negative air pressure adaptor comprising an adaptor housing having a port region for fluidically coupling a filter cartridge to a respirator, an inlet port for connecting a positive pressure air source to the port region, and a first check valve to restrict the flow of air from the port region to the filter cartidge.
2. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a second check valve to restrict the flow of air from the respirator to the port region.
3. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the first check valve is located on an inhalation port fluidically connecting the port region with the filter cartridge.
4. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the adaptor housing further includes a porous structure interposed between the inlet port and the port region.
5. The apparatus of claim 4 wherein the porous structure comprises is selected from a group consisting of sintered metal, porous polypropylene, porouspolyethylene, porous acetal, porous ceramic or a porous glass bead structure.
6. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein a second check valve is located on an inhalation port on the respirator.
7. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the adaptor housing and filter cartridge comprise a single unit.
8. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the adaptor housing and respirator comprise a single unit.
9. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising an air line connecting the inlet port to the positive pressure air source.
10. The apparatus of claim 9 further comprising a quick release mechanism for releasing the positive pressure air source from the respirator.
11. The apparatus of claim 9 wherein the air line is overmolded to the adaptor housing.
12. The apparatus of claim 9 further comprising a check valve in the air line proximate the inlet port.
13. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the positive pressure air source comprises a portable powered air purifying system.
14. A positive/negative air pressure respirator system comprising:
a face mask having an exhaust port and at least one inhalation port;
at least one positive/negative air pressure adaptor having a port region fluidically coupling a filter cartridge to the at least one inhalation port, the positive/negative air pressure adaptor having an inlet port for connection to a positive pressure air source; and a first check valve positioned to restrict the flow of air from the port region to the filter cartridge.
a face mask having an exhaust port and at least one inhalation port;
at least one positive/negative air pressure adaptor having a port region fluidically coupling a filter cartridge to the at least one inhalation port, the positive/negative air pressure adaptor having an inlet port for connection to a positive pressure air source; and a first check valve positioned to restrict the flow of air from the port region to the filter cartridge.
15. The respirator of claim 14 further comprising a second check valve to restrict the flow of air from the face mask to the port region.
16. The respirator of claim 14 wherein the first check valve is attached to the positive/negative air pressure adapter.
17. The respirator of claim 14 wherein the first check valve is located on the inhalation port on the respirator.
18. The respirator of claim 14 wherein positive/negative air pressure adaptor further comprises a porous structure interposed between the inlet port and the port region.
19. The respirator of claim 18 wherein the porous structure is selected from a group consisting of sintered metal, porous polypropylene, porous polyethylene, porous acetal, porous ceramic or a porous glass bead structure.
20. The respirator of claim 14 wherein the positive/negative air pressure adaptor and filter cartridge comprise a single unit.
21. The respirator of claim 14 wherein the positive/negative air pressure adaptor and at least one inhalation port comprise a single unit.
22. The respirator of claim 14 wherein the at least one inhalation port and at least one positive/negative air pressure adaptor comprises two inhalationports and two positive/negative air pressure adapters.
23. The respirator of claim 14 further comprising an air line connecting the inlet port to the positive pressure air source.
24. The respirator of claim 14 wherein the positive pressure air source comprises a portable powered air purifying system.
25. A method for operating a combination positive and negative pressure respirator system comprising the steps of:
connecting a positive pressure air source to a positive/negative air pressure adapter fluidically coupling a filter cartridge to a respirator;
restricting the flow of air from the positive/negative air pressure adaptor to the filter cartridge so that the respirator system operates as a positive pressure respirator; and reducing the flow of air from the positive pressure air source to the positive/negative air pressure adaptor so that at least a portion of the air is drawn into the respirator system through the filter cartridge.
connecting a positive pressure air source to a positive/negative air pressure adapter fluidically coupling a filter cartridge to a respirator;
restricting the flow of air from the positive/negative air pressure adaptor to the filter cartridge so that the respirator system operates as a positive pressure respirator; and reducing the flow of air from the positive pressure air source to the positive/negative air pressure adaptor so that at least a portion of the air is drawn into the respirator system through the filter cartridge.
26. The method of claim 25 further including the step of disconnecting the positive pressure air source to the positive/negative air pressure adaptor.
Priority Applications (3)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2147963 CA2147963A1 (en) | 1995-04-26 | 1995-04-26 | Positive/negative air pressure adaptor for use with respirators |
| DE1996115570 DE19615570B4 (en) | 1995-04-26 | 1996-04-19 | Overpressure / vacuum air adapter for respiratory protective equipment |
| JP10038996A JP3756571B2 (en) | 1995-04-26 | 1996-04-22 | Positive / negative pressure adapter for respiratory protection device |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2147963 CA2147963A1 (en) | 1995-04-26 | 1995-04-26 | Positive/negative air pressure adaptor for use with respirators |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2147963A1 true CA2147963A1 (en) | 1996-10-27 |
Family
ID=4155731
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2147963 Abandoned CA2147963A1 (en) | 1995-04-26 | 1995-04-26 | Positive/negative air pressure adaptor for use with respirators |
Country Status (3)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| JP (1) | JP3756571B2 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2147963A1 (en) |
| DE (1) | DE19615570B4 (en) |
Cited By (4)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN101815557A (en) * | 2007-10-05 | 2010-08-25 | 3M创新有限公司 | Respirator flow control apparatus and method |
| US8225792B2 (en) | 2006-10-04 | 2012-07-24 | Koken Ltd. | Mask device with blower |
| CN106232184A (en) * | 2014-04-16 | 2016-12-14 | 萨塔有限两合公司 | Respiratory protection equipment |
| CN113440754A (en) * | 2021-05-19 | 2021-09-28 | 刘楚悦 | Anion air purification system |
Families Citing this family (7)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DE19757703C5 (en) * | 1997-12-23 | 2009-09-17 | Map Medizin-Technologie Gmbh | breathing device |
| US6644316B2 (en) * | 1999-10-12 | 2003-11-11 | Mallinckrodt Inc. | Variable aperture venting for respiratory mask |
| JP2010012280A (en) * | 2009-09-02 | 2010-01-21 | Koken Ltd | Mask device with blower |
| DE102011118120A1 (en) * | 2011-11-10 | 2013-05-16 | Sata Gmbh & Co. Kg | Device for treatment of air, particularly breathing air, has unit for cleaning air, unit for controlling air pressure, unit for moistening air, unit for tempering air and control device |
| DE202014003214U1 (en) * | 2014-04-16 | 2015-03-11 | Sata Gmbh & Co. Kg | Respiratory protection device |
| DE202020001717U1 (en) | 2020-04-23 | 2020-05-10 | Manuel Pescher | Socket for changeable mouth-nose protection and protective mask |
| DE102021102802A1 (en) | 2020-04-23 | 2021-10-28 | Manuel Pescher | Half mask for an adaptable functional state, interaction element with functional unit and process |
Family Cites Families (4)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US2775968A (en) * | 1954-02-08 | 1957-01-01 | Polli John | Mask-type respirator |
| DE2853225A1 (en) * | 1978-12-09 | 1980-06-26 | Draegerwerk Ag | Compressed air-supp-ied respirator mask - has lung-operated air supply assembly combined with air aspiration through filter |
| US4411264A (en) * | 1980-07-25 | 1983-10-25 | Nuclear Power Outfitters | Supplied air respirator |
| DE9411933U1 (en) * | 1994-07-22 | 1994-10-27 | Gottlieb Weinmann Geräte für Medizin und Arbeitsschutz GmbH + Co, 22525 Hamburg | Gas supply line |
-
1995
- 1995-04-26 CA CA 2147963 patent/CA2147963A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
1996
- 1996-04-19 DE DE1996115570 patent/DE19615570B4/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1996-04-22 JP JP10038996A patent/JP3756571B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Cited By (7)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US8225792B2 (en) | 2006-10-04 | 2012-07-24 | Koken Ltd. | Mask device with blower |
| CN101516451B (en) * | 2006-10-04 | 2013-06-05 | 兴研株式会社 | Mask device with blower |
| CN101815557A (en) * | 2007-10-05 | 2010-08-25 | 3M创新有限公司 | Respirator flow control apparatus and method |
| CN106232184A (en) * | 2014-04-16 | 2016-12-14 | 萨塔有限两合公司 | Respiratory protection equipment |
| US10806953B2 (en) | 2014-04-16 | 2020-10-20 | Sata Gmbh & Co. Kg | Breathing apparatus |
| CN106232184B (en) * | 2014-04-16 | 2023-08-29 | 萨塔有限两合公司 | respiratory protection device |
| CN113440754A (en) * | 2021-05-19 | 2021-09-28 | 刘楚悦 | Anion air purification system |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| DE19615570A1 (en) | 1996-10-31 |
| JPH08299476A (en) | 1996-11-19 |
| JP3756571B2 (en) | 2006-03-15 |
| DE19615570B4 (en) | 2006-12-07 |
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