GB2599663A

GB2599663A - Improvements in respirator hoods

Info

Publication number: GB2599663A
Application number: GB2015910.9A
Authority: GB
Inventors: James Fraser Michael; Douglas Paul; Newton Grint Alexander; Louise Welch Anna; Richard Felstead Alan; Clokey Neville; Johnston Julie
Original assignee: BAE Systems PLC
Current assignee: BAE Systems PLC
Priority date: 2020-10-07
Filing date: 2020-10-07
Publication date: 2022-04-13
Also published as: GB202015910D0

Abstract

The PAPR hood comprises a headtop 321 which encapsulates a user’s head and neck and a shoulder cape 323 extending therefrom. The headtop has a transparent visor 322, and a resilient neck seal 305 extending inwardly from the headtop to create an enclosed volume, such that in use, said user’s entire head moves freely therein. The neck seal may be reversibly attached to the headtop by a reversible fastener such as hook and a loop fastener, a stud fastener or a zip. The neck seal may be made from an elasticated fabric.

Description

Improvements in respirator hoods

Technical Field

This disclosure relates to respirators, and components of respirators including a neck seal for a hood arrangement.

Background

Respirators of the powered air-purifying respirator (PAPR) type typically comprise two main functional components: an air supply unit that outputs a flow of breathable air; and headgear which receives the output of the air supply unit and delivers it to a user of the respirator for breathing. It is inconvenient, from an ergonomic point of view, for the air supply unit to be integrated with the headgear so as to be carried on the users head. Therefore, in most implementations the air supply unit feeds a tube that connects to the headgear, allowing physical separation between the air supply unit and the headgear. In this arrangement the output of the air supply unit feeds the tube, and the tube feeds the headgear. The tube allows the air supply unit to be carried away from the headgear, such as on a belt at the user's waist. However, integration of the tube with the headgear poses its own ergonomic challenges. The connection should be secure, yet not impinge significantly on user comfort. The connection should further enable ergonomic onward supply of air from the tube to the user via the headgear.

Summary

According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a hood suitable for use with a powered air purifying respirator (PAPR), comprising a headtop with a shoulder cape extending therefrom, wherein the headtop encapsulates a user's head and neck, wherein said headtop comprises a transparent visor, and wherein the headtop comprises a resilient neck seal, said neck seal extending inwardly from the headtop to the user's neck, to create an enclosed volume, such that in use, said user's entire head moves freely therein.

The headtop may extend down to the base of the users lower neck or upper shoulders, (in the general region of the user's clavicle) at this point the shoulder cape may be attached to form a headtop and shoulder cape joint. The neck seal may be fastened at the point of the headtop and shoulder cape joint. The neck seal may be fastened at the base of the headtop, to co-align with the base of the user's neck.

The headtop and shoulder cape joint may be reversibly connected, more preferably a unitary piece of material or two separate components that are irreversibly affixed.

The visor is located within the headtop, and may be framed within the headtop, more preferably hermitically sealed and framed within the headtop. Prior art designs typically have the lower edge of the visor as the base of the headtop, and so juts outwards from the user.

Preferably, a portion of the headtop extends downwardly from the visor to the headtop and shoulder cape joint, thereby preventing the visor from jutting out.

The headtop and shoulder cape joint and neck seal form a large cavity to allow positive airflow to be circulated therein, from an associated positive airflow system attached thereto. The airflow is then able to surround the user's entire head. Typically prior art PAPR designs provide a neoprene rubber seal which fits to the user's chin or encircles the facial region, and therefore in the prior art systems airflow is restricted to only the region in front of the seal. The use of headtop and shoulder cape joint and neck seal, allows for a cavity that encapsulates the entire user's head, ensuring that the entire head is both free to move, and further that any positive air pressure may also provide cooling relief to the rest of the user's head, ears etc. The neck seal may be affixed to the headtop and shoulder cape joint, by any known means, such as, for example they may be sewn, adhesively bonded, mechanically fastened, to create an hermetic seal.

The neck seal may be reversibly attached to the headtop and shoulder cape joint, by a reversible fastener. The reversible fastener, may be a mechanical fastener, any typically reversible fastener used to fasten two pieces of material, such as for example, hook and loop fastener, press-studs, zips etc. The reversible fastener allows the user to readily replace the neck seal for cleaning or disposal especially for infection control or if dust/dirt and debris accumulate in said neck seal. The hood may withstand many cycles of cleaning and can be safely sanitised and re-used.

The hood materials for the headtop and shoulder cape for PAPR may be selected from any well known PPE or PAPR materials. Visor materials may be selected from any known visor materials, especially those that allow for cleaning, sanitisation or sterilisation, whether chemical, UV or any known methods or techniques.

The resilient neck seal may be any suitable extendable material, such as a rubber, polymer, elastomer or elasticated fabric. Preferably the neck seal is an elasticated fabric, such as a woven fabric, preferably an elasticated fabric. The elasticated fabric may be man-made or natural or a combination therefore, more preferably the elasticated fabric is elasticated cotton.

The neck seal may have an aperture with a radius which extends in the range of from 1cm to 20cm, this allows the seal to operate on a very wide range of user head and neck sizes. A large neck size may be considered in the order of collar size 20inches (50cm) circumference, which would require a circular aperture with a radius opening of approximately 15cm. It would be trivial to provide neck seals with a greater aperture range, if users with larger necks were required. The above range can be achieved with only one size of neck seal, which allows greater than 99% of the populations to be catered for. Current designs of face and chin seals, are designed for 95% percentile size users, and many adults fall below this percentile and experience issues of poorly fitting hoods, and thereby increasing misuse, and reluctance to use, or even not providing a positive pressure to help mitigate infection control.

The neck seal may be woven, like a sock, to provide an a region of material that will extend radially inwardly from the hoodtop and shoulder cape joint. The neck seal may be manufactured as one piece of material, or two or more portions.

The aperture may terminate in a raised collar, which is an extension of the neck seal material which extends substantially orthogonally away from the neck seal, so as to adopt to the shape of the user's neck line. This reduces the pressure on the users neck from a single point of contact to a more comfortable region, in a sock-like manner.

According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a respirator system 25 comprising: an air supply unit arranged to deliver air at its output; headgear comprising a cradle for interfacing with a users head, and a hood as defined herein from within which the user breathes; a tube to receive air from the air supply unit; and an air interface component to receive air from the tube and to deliver said air within the hood.

The interface component as defined hereinafter, may provide a frame for supporting the hood, and comprises an overhead branch and a forehead branch, wherein the overhead branch comprises a divergent portion to feed air to the forehead branch, to provide a curtain of air between the hood and the users eyes, nose and mouth In an alternative arrangement, according to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a hood suitable for use with a powered air purifying respirator (PAPR), comprising a headtop, wherein the headtop encapsulates a user's head and neck, wherein said headtop comprises a transparent visor, and wherein the headtop comprises a resilient neck seal, said neck seal extending inwardly from the headtop to the user's neck, to create an enclosed volume, such that in use, said user's entire head moves freely therein.

By provision of an interface component by which air can be delivered within the hood, enhanced ergonomics are facilitated for the headgear. For example, arrangements are envisaged in which the tube and cradle are not integral with one another meaning that these components can be separately specified for users of the respirator having different face and head proportions.

In one example, the interface component is mounted to the cradle and to the tube. In one example, the interface component is releasably mounted to the cradle.

In one example, the interface component comprises cradle-engaging fastenings. In one example, the interface component and cradle each comprise portions of one or more fastenings, arranged to cooperate with each other to mount the interface component to the cradle.

In one example, the interface component and/or cradle comprises releasable and recouplable fastenings, or portions of fastening elements that cooperate to releasably mount the interface component to the cradle.

In one example, the interface component is releasably mounted to the hood. In one example, the interface component comprises a hood fastening that further couples the interface component to the hood. In one example, the interface component and hood fastening are arranged to cooperate with each other to mount the interface component to the tube and the hood.

In one example, the interface component and/or hood comprise releasable and recouplable fastenings, or portions of fastening elements that cooperate to releasably mount the interface component to the hood.

In one example, the interface component comprises a frame for supporting the hood. In one example, the interface component comprises an overhead branch and a forehead branch.

In one example, the interface component is releasably mounted to the hood at hood fastenings provided on the forehead branch of the interface component. In one example, the hood fastenings provided on the forehead branch extend outwardly therefrom. In one example, a plurality of fixing bosses is provided on the forehead branch, to cooperate with the hood and couple one to the other. In one example, the fixing bosses comprise projections, for example bulbous ended projections to button into slits, holes or corresponding openings in the hood. In one example, the fixing bosses comprise smooth, such as generally rounded, edges and/or outer surfaces.

In one example, the forehead branch comprises an outwardly-projecting brim In one example, the hood fastenings of the interface component extend from the brim.

By providing fastenings or other couplings that are releasable and/or re-couplable as described, further accommodation can be made enable good ergonomics for users of the respirator with different face and head proportions. Furthermore, savings can be made when considering a range of sizes that may be required for different users, with a single interface component cooperating with a range of cradles/hoods.

In one example, the interface component is releasably mounted to the tube. In one example, the interface component comprises tube fastenings. In one example, the interface component and tube each comprise portions of one or more tube fastenings, arranged to cooperate with each other to mount the interface component to the tube.

In one example, the interface component and/or tube comprise releasable and re-couplable fastenings, or portions of fastening elements that cooperate to releasably mount the interface component to the tube.

In one example, the interface component is releasably mounted to the tube and hood. In one example, the interface component comprises combined hood and tube fastenings. In one example, the interface component and tube each comprise portions of a hood fastening, arranged to cooperate with each other to mount the interface component to the tube and the hood together.

In one example, the interface component and/or tube comprise releasable and re-couplable fastenings, or portions of fastening elements that cooperate to releasably mount the interface component to the tube and the hood together.

By providing fastenings or other couplings that are releasable and/or re-couplable as described, savings can be made when considering a range of sizes that may be required, and when considering the separate operational lifespan or periods between cleaning of the individual tube, cradle and hood components, along with that of the interface component.

In one example, the cradle comprises fixings that extend away from the user's head, to which the interface component mounts. In one example, the cradle comprises fixings that extend away from the user's head, for example generally horizontally away from the users head, to which the interface component mounts.

In one example, the cradle comprises first and second laterally-extending projections at the sides thereof to form cradle-engaging fastenings, onto which the interface component mounts. In one example, the cradle comprises an adjuster, such as a size adjuster. In one example, the adjuster cooperates with a cradle-engaging fastening of the interface component to mount the interface component to the cradle.

In one example, the cradle-engaging fastening comprises a bracket that connects between the adjuster of a cradle and the interface component. In one example, the bracket comprises an angle bracket, for example a dog-leg bracket or a 90-degree angle bracket. 20 In one example, the interface component comprises cradle-engaging fastenings formed as apertures therethrough and is releasably mounted to the cradle by threading onto projections extending from the cradle. In one example, the interface component comprises cradle-engaging fastenings to interface with the headband at the sides and/or rear of the headband, for example at only the sides, or at only the sides and back.

In one example, the cradle comprises a headband for in use encircling the users head in a generally horizontal plane. In one example, the projections extending from the cradle extend from the headband of the cradle. In one example, the headband comprises a webbing or lattice.

In one example, the headband is releasably fastened to the cradle. In one example, the cradle, and/or the headband thereof is manufactured from a plastics material, for example a polymer. In one example, the cradle, and/or the headband thereof comprises a flexible material. In one example, the cradle, and/or the headband thereof comprises a fabric.

In one example, the hood comprises a hood. In one example, the hood comprises a transparent visor portion for the user the user to see through. In one example, the hood comprises a fabric material. In one example, the hood comprises a textile material, for example a non-woven textile material. In one example, the hood is manufactured from an airtight fabric. In one example, the hood comprises a polypropylene coated fabric, and/or non-woven polypropylene, or a combination of these materials.

In one example, the interface component comprises an internal conduit, to receive air from the tube at the rear the users head and to deliver said air to the front of the users head. In one example, the interface component passes over the user's head while located within the headgear.

In one example, the interface component is manufactured from materials such as polymers, airtight fabric plys, metals, metal alloys, and reinforced polymer composites. In one example, the interface component is manufactured from a polymer for mass production, such as for example, injection moulding. In one example, the interface component is manufactured using an additive layer manufacture technique. Additive Manufacturing (AM) (also known as Additive Layer Manufacture (ALM), 3D printing, etc.) is a process that may be used to produce functional, complex objects, layer by layer, without moulds or dies. Typically, such processes include providing material (e.g. metal or polymer) in the form of a powder or a wire. Using a powerful heat source such as a laser beam, Electron Beam (EB) or an electric or plasma welding arc, an amount of that material is melted and deposited (e.g. on a base plate of a work piece).

Subsequent layers are then built up upon each preceding layer. Vat photopolymerizahon. In one example, the ALM process may be Material jetting, Binder jetting, Powder bed fusion, Material extrusion, Directed energy deposition, Sheet lamination The use of additive layer manufacture allows the creation of bespoke interface components units for each user, rather than tooling for one or two sizes.

In one example, the overhead branch comprises a generally arched shape, rising from the rear of the users head, passing over the top of the users head and down toward the users forehead. In one example, the interface component is arranged with the headgear to run in a generally straight line from the back of the users head, when viewed in plan. In one example, the interface component is arranged with the headgear to run along the midline of the user's head.

In one example, the overhead branch comprises a single main air conduit therethrough.

In one example, the overhead branch comprises an air conduit with internal cross-section that narrows from the rear of the head toward the front, along at least a part of its length, for example at a rearward portion of its length In one example, the overhead branch comprises a generally round internal cross-section toward the rear thereof, such as at the back of the user's head. In one example, the overhead branch comprises a generally round external cross-section toward the rear thereof, such as at the back of the user's head. In one example, the overhead branch comprises a generally flattened internal cross-section toward the centre thereof, for example over the crown of the user's head. In one example, the overhead branch comprises a generally flattened external cross-section toward the centre thereof, for example over the crown of the users head.

In one example, the overhead branch comprises one or more bleed holes from which air received from the tube is delivered within the hood. In one example, the overhead branch comprises a plurality of bleed holes. In one example, the overhead branch comprises one or more bleed holes toward the rear thereof or centre thereof, for example at the back of the user's head or over the crown of the user's head. In one example, the bleed holes are provided on a portion of the overhead branch with internal cross-section that narrows from the rear of the head toward the front.

In one example, the overhead branch comprises one or more bleed holes that open toward the users head.

In one example, the bleed holes are angled through the overhead branch so that the airflow therethrough makes an acute angle to the direction of airflow in the overhead branch. In one example, an angle of 20 to 80 degrees. In one example, an angle of 40 to 80 degrees, preferably 50 to 70 degrees. In one example, an angle of 60 degrees.

In one example, the bleed holes have an effective cross-sectional dimension of 1rnm to 10mm, preferably 2mm to 5mm, such as 3mm. In one example, the bleed holes are generally circular and have a cross sectional diameter of 1mm to lOmm, preferably 2mm to 5mm, such as 3mm.

In one example, 1 to 20 bleed holes are provided, suitably 10 to 15, such as 12 bleed holes are provided.

In one example, the bleed holes are provided in a plurality of groups, with bleed holes in each group aligned in the direction of airflow in the overhead branch. In one example, each group comprises a row of bleed holes. In one example, three groups of bleed holes are provided. In one example, four bleed holes are provided in each group.

Bleed holes as described reduce pressure in the interface component and disrupt airflow as air passes over and therethrough. In this way, a reduction in noise experienced by the user can be achieved. Also, the bleed holes may serve to cool the upper portion of the user's head, which may be less irritating than providing cooling flow elsewhere as this in many users covered with hair. (this cooling may be a bonus, not the original intention).

In one example, the overhead branch comprises a divergent portion to feed air to the forehead branch. In one example, the overhead branch comprises a fan-shaped portion to feed air to the forehead branch.

In one example, the forehead branch projects laterally away from the overhead branch. In one example, the forehead branch runs generally horizontally around the user's forehead, separate therefrom.

In one example, the forehead branch comprises one or more vents for delivery of air from the interface component within the hood. The forehead branch delivers airflow over the face of the user. This contrasts with related systems, where the flow is generally delivered rearward of the face. In one example, the forehead branch delivers a positive airflow over the eyes, nose and mouth of the user. In one example, the forehead branch is arranged to deliver air in a generally downward direction.

In one example, the forehead branch comprises a single vent for delivery of air from the interface component within the hood. In one example, the forehead branch is arranged to extend equally on each side of the user's face. In one example, the vent is arranged to extend equally on each side of the user's face. In one example, the forehead branch comprises an elongate vent, extending along the forehead branch, around the user's forehead. In one example, the forehead branch comprises a vent that is at least as long as the width of the nose of a user, suitably at least as long the outer edges of the eyes of a user. In one example, the forehead branch comprises a vent that is shorter than the width of the users face, suitably shorter than the separation of the temples of the user. In one example, the vent is as long as the outer edges of the eyes of a user. In one example, the forehead branch comprises a vent that is greater than 3mm wide, for example greater than 5mm, for example greater than 10mm.

In one example, the forehead branch comprises a vent provided that is generally divergent toward the open end. In one example, the forehead branch comprises a vent with a bevelled edge, the bevel providing a local divergence toward the open end of the vent. The bevelled edge may form all or part of the edge of the vent, for example along the long sides of the vent only. In one example, the vent may be wider than the end of the overhead portion. In one example, the vent may extend around the forehead, away from the extent of the end of the overhead portion. In one example, the vent may extend around the forehead, laterally away from the extent of the end of the overhead portion. In one example, the vent may comprise a main opening portion aligned with the end of the overhead portion, and one or more offset opening portions, arranged away from the main opening portion. In one example, the one or more offset opening portions are laterally offset from the main opening portion, such as forming the end or ends of the vent. In one example, the one or more offset opening portions are laterally offset from the main opening portion, such as at the end or ends of the vent further from the user's midline. In one example, two, three or a larger plurality of said vents are provided, two, three or more of which having features as described for the vent as above.

By providing a vent arrangement as described, good noise performance can be achieved, and air provided to the user's facial area for breathing, while a noisy and potentially irritating direct curtain of air impinging on the user's face is avoided.

In one example, the interface component is mounted to the tube such that the tube approaches the interface component in an upward direction. In one example, the interface component is mounted to the tube such that the tube approaches the interface component in a vertical direction. In one example, the interface component is mounted to the tube such that the tube approaches the interface component in a direction generally parallel to a user's back. In one example, the interface component is mounted to the tube such that the tube approaches the interface component aligned or co-linearly with a rising part of the overhead branch of the interface component.

By providing an interface which allows the tube to interact with the rest of the respirator as described, rather than by approaching horizontally for example, increased user comfort may be experienced as the weight of the tube acts on the headgear with minimal additional turning moment.

In one example, the respirator comprises a vibration decoupler. In one example, the vibration decoupler is provided between the air supply unit and the interface component, for example between the air supply unit and the tube, or between the tube and the interface component, at an intermediate position between parts of the tube, or integral with the interface component upstream from the tube.

In a preferred arrangement, the vibration decoupler is provided at one end of the tube, for example at the downstream end of the tube. By providing the vibration decoupler in this way the number of areas where movable connections between the air supply unit and the user's face is reduced.

In one example, the vibration decoupler comprises a non self-supporting material. In one example, the vibration decoupler comprises a material with insignificant resistance to bending under its own weight. In one example, the vibration decoupler comprises a thin-walled section that is prone to buckling. In one example, the vibration decoupler comprises a section that is incapable of sustaining a compressive load without gross deformation.

In one example, the vibration decoupler comprises a fabric material. In one example, the vibration decoupler comprises a textile material, for example a non-woven textile material. In one example, the vibration decoupler is manufactured from an airtight fabric. In one example, the vibration decoupler comprises a polypropylene coated fabric, and/or non-woven polypropylene, or a combination of these materials. In one example, the vibration decoupler comprises the same material as the hood. In one example, the vibration decoupler comprises a tube of lower bending stiffness than the tube that otherwise connects the air supply unit with the headgear.

In one example, the vibration decoupler comprises a tube of material, such as formed from a flat pattern piece with opposed edges coupled together, for example sewn together.

In one example, the vibration decoupler comprises a tube of material is cut with perpendicular ends. In this way, attachment of the vibration decoupler to other parts of the respirator is facilitated through ease of alignment.

In one example, the vibration decoupler is arranged to lie at the rear of the body of a user, for example, down the back of the neck orthe user ordown the back of the user. In one example, the vibration decoupler is arranged to lie on the user's midline.

In one example, the vibration decoupler is mounted to the tube such that the tube approaches in an upward direction in use. In one example, the vibration decoupler is mounted to the tube such that the tube approaches in a vertical direction. In one example, the vibration decoupler is mounted to the tube such that the tube approaches in a direction generally parallel to the back of a user. In one example, the vibration decoupler is mounted to the tube such that the tube approaches co-linearly therewith.

In one example, the vibration decoupler cooperates with a stabiliser to hold the tube and headgear in fixed arrangement relative to one another. In one example, the tube and/or vibration decoupler cooperate with a stabiliser provided on the headgear, for example in the form of a loop incorporated onto the hood. A stabiliser for the vibration decoupler and/or tube reduce swaying of these components as the user moves, thereby increasing user comfort.

In one example, the vibration decoupler comprises a stent to prevent collapse thereof in use. In one example, the vibration decoupler comprises an internal spacer arrangement to prevent collapse thereof in use. Suitably, the stent or spacer is provided in the vibration decoupler so as not to directly contact the elements upstream or downstream thereof.

In one example the vibration decoupler comprises an external support, such as, for example a cage, lattice, elongate splines, to prevent twisting or kinking of the non self-supporting material vibration decoupler.

In one example the vibration decoupler may be engaged with the tube and interface component by tube fastening elements. The tube fastening elements at both ends of the vibration decoupler may be linked, by the external support, to prevent twisting, flexing or collapsing of the non self-supporting material vibration decoupler.

By providing a vibration decoupler, vibration from the air supply unit and/or tube is not passed through the respirator to the user, meaning that the respirator is quieter for the user.

In one example, the vibration decoupler comprises offset first and second ends. In one example, the vibration decoupler comprises a first end that is not perpendicular to its length, and/or a second end that is not perpendicular to its length. In one example, the vibration decoupler is a rhombus or parallelogram shape, when laid flat. In one example, the position and/or angle of the ends of the vibration decoupler are arranged such that the downstream and upstream components are in use offset from one another.

By offsetting the downstream and upstream components, for example by using the vibration decoupler to space the tube further from the user's back than the rearward extent of the headgear/interface component, user comfort may be enhanced by freeing up space near the users neck to allow the head and neck to move.

In a further aspect there is provided the use of a vibration decoupler in a respirator assembly, which comprises an interface component arrangeable in use to receive air from an air supply tube of the respirator and to deliver said air within a hood of the respirator, wherein said vibration decoupler reduces vibrational noise from the tube and air supply to the interface component.

In a further aspect there is provided an interface component for a respirator, the interface component arranged in use to receive air from an air supply tube of the respirator and to deliver said air within a hood of the respirator.

In one aspect there is provided an interface component, as described with respect to the respirator set out above.

In one example, the respirator comprises headgear comprising a cradle for interfacing with a users head, and a hood from within which the user breathes.

In one example, the interface component is arranged in use to be mounted to the cradle and to the tube. In one example, the interface component is in use releasably mounted to the cradle.

In one example, the interface component comprises cradle-engaging fastenings. In one example, the interface component and cradle each comprise portions of one or more fastenings, arranged to cooperate with each other to in use mount the interface component to the cradle.

In one example, the interface component and/or cradle comprises releasable and re-couplable fastenings, or portions of fastening elements that cooperate to releasably mount the interface component to the cradle in use.

In one example, the interface component is arranged to be releasably mounted to the hood in use. In one example, the interface component comprises a hood fastening that further couples the interface component to the hood in use. In one example, the interface component and hood fastening are arranged to cooperate with each other to mount the interface component to the tube and the hood in use.

In one example, the interface component and/or hood comprise releasable and re-couplable fastenings, or portions of fastening elements that cooperate to releasably mount the interface component to the hood in use.

In one example, the interface component comprises a frame for supporting the hood in use. In one example, the interface component comprises an overhead branch and a forehead branch.

In one example, the interface component is in use releasably mounted to the hood at hood fastenings provided on the forehead branch of the interface component. In one example, the hood fastenings provided on the forehead branch extend outwardly therefrom. In one example, a plurality of fixing bosses is provided on the forehead branch, to cooperate with the hood and couple one to the other. In one example, the fixing bosses comprise projections, for example bulbous ended projections to button into slits, holes or corresponding openings in the hood. In one example, the fixing bosses comprise smooth, such as generally rounded, edges and/or outer surfaces.

In one example, the interface component is in use releasably mounted to the tube. In one example, the interface component comprises tube fastenings. In one example, the interface component and tube each comprise portions of one or more tube fastenings, arranged to cooperate with each other to mount the interface component to the tube in use.

In one example, the interface component and/or tube comprise releasable and recouplable fastenings, or portions of fastening elements that cooperate to releasably mount the interface component to the tube in use.

In one example, the interface component is releasably mounted to the tube and hood in use. In one example, the interface component comprises combined hood and tube fastenings. In one example, the interface component and tube each comprise portions of a hood fastening, arranged to cooperate with each other to mount the interface component to the tube and the hood together in use.

In one example, the interface component and/or tube comprise releasable and recouplable fastenings, or portions of fastening elements that cooperate to releasably mount the interface component to the tube and the hood together in use.

In one example, the cradle comprises an adjuster that cooperates with a cradle-engaging fastening of the interface component to mount the interface component to the cradle in use.

In one example, the cradle-engaging fastening comprises a bracket that connects between the adjuster of a cradle and the interface component in use. In one example, the bracket comprises an angle bracket, for example a dog-leg bracket or a 90-degree angle bracket.

In one example, the interface component comprises cradle-engaging fastenings formed as apertures therethrough and is releasably mounted to the cradle in use by threading onto projections extending from the cradle. In one example, the interface component comprises cradle-engaging fastenings to in use interface with the headband at the sides and/or rear of the headband, for example at only the sides, or at only the sides and back.

In one example, the interface component comprises an internal conduit, to in use receive air from the tube at the rear the user's head and to deliver said air to the front of the user's head. In one example, in use the interface component passes over the users head while located within the headgear.

Subsequent layers are then built up upon each preceding layer. Vat photopolymerizafion. In one example, the ALM process may be Material jetting, Binder jetting, Powder bed fusion, Material extrusion, Directed energy deposition, Sheet lamination The use of additive layer manufacture allows the creation of bespoke interface components units for each user, rather than tooling for one or two sizes.

In one example, the overhead branch comprises a generally arched shape, rising from the rear of the users head, passing over the top of the user's head and down toward the user's forehead in use. In one example, the interface component is arranged in use with the headgear to run in a generally straight line from the back of the user's head, when viewed in plan. In one example, the interface component is arranged with the headgear to run along the midline of the users head in use.

In one example, the overhead branch comprises a single main air conduit therethrough. In one example, the overhead branch comprises an air conduit with internal cross-section that narrows from the rear of the head toward the front, along at least a part of its length, for example at a rearward portion of its length.

In one example, the overhead branch comprises a generally round internal cross-section toward the rear thereof, such as at the back of the users head in use. In one example, the overhead branch comprises a generally round external cross-section toward the rear thereof, such as at the back of the users head in use. In one example, the overhead branch comprises a generally flattened internal cross-section toward the centre thereof, for example over the crown of the users head in use. In one example, the overhead branch comprises a generally flattened external cross-section toward the centre thereof, for example over the crown of the users head in use.

In one example, the overhead branch comprises one or more bleed holes from which air received from the tube is delivered within the hood. In one example, the overhead branch comprises a plurality of bleed holes. In one example, the overhead branch comprises one or more bleed holes toward the rear thereof or centre thereof, for example at the back of the users head or over the crown of the user's head in use. In one example, the bleed holes are provided on a portion of the overhead branch with internal cross-section that narrows from the rear of the head toward the front.

In one example, the overhead branch comprises one or more bleed holes that open toward the users head in use.

In one example, the bleed holes have an effective cross-sectional dimension of 1mm to 10mm, preferably 2mm to 5mm, such as 3mm. In one example, the bleed holes are generally circular and have a cross sectional diameter of 1mm to lOmm, preferably 2mm to 5mm, such as 3mm.

In one example, the forehead branch projects laterally away from the overhead branch. In one example, the forehead branch runs generally horizontally around the user's forehead in use, separate therefrom.

In one example, the forehead branch comprises one or more vents for delivery of air from the interface component within the hood in use. The forehead branch in use delivers airflow over the user's face. This contrasts with related systems, where the flow is generally delivered rearward of the face. In one example, the forehead branch delivers a positive airflow over the eyes, nose and mouth of the user in use. In one example, the forehead branch is arranged to in use deliver air in a generally downward direction.

In one example, the forehead branch comprises a single vent for delivery of air from the interface component within the hood in use. In one example, the forehead branch is arranged to in use extend equally on each side of the user's face. In one example, the vent is arranged to in use extend equally on each side of the user's face. In one example, the forehead branch comprises an elongate vent, extending along the forehead branch, around the user's forehead in use. In one example, the forehead branch comprises a vent that is at least as long as the width of the nose of a user, suitably at least as long the outer edges of the eyes of a user. In one example, the forehead branch comprises a vent that is shorter than the width of the user's face, suitably shorter than the separation of the temples of the user. In one example, the vent is as long as the outer edges of the eyes of a user. In one example, the forehead branch comprises a vent that is greater than 3mm wide, for example greater than 5mm, for example greater than lOmm.

In one example, the interface component is in use mounted to the tube such that the tube approaches the interface component in an upward direction. In one example, the interface component is in use mounted to the tube such that the tube approaches the interface component in a vertical direction. In one example, the interface component is in use mounted to the tube such that the tube approaches the interface component in a direction generally parallel to a user's back. In one example, the interface component is in use mounted to the tube such that the tube approaches the interface component co-linearly with a rising part of the overhead branch of the interface component.

In one aspect there is provided a vibration decoupler for a respirator, the vibration decoupler arranged in use between an air supply unit and a hood of the respirator.

In one aspect there is provided a vibration decoupler, as described with respect to the respirator set out above.

In one example, the vibration decoupler is arranged in use between the air supply unit and an interface component, for example between the air supply unit and the tube, or between the tube and the interface component, at an intermediate position between parts of the tube, or integral with the interface component upstream from the tube.

In one example, the vibration decoupler is provided at one end of the tube, for example at the downstream end of the tube.

In one example, the vibration decoupler comprises a tube of material is cut with perpendicular ends.

In one example, the vibration decoupler is arranged in use to lie at the rear of the body of a user, for example, down the back of the neck or the user or down the back of the user. In one example, the vibration decoupler is arranged in use to lie on the user's midline.

In one example, the vibration decoupler is in use mounted to the tube such that the tube approaches in an upward direction in use. In one example, the vibration decoupler is in use mounted to the tube such that the tube approaches in a vertical direction. In one example, the vibration decoupler is in use mounted to the tube such that the tube approaches in a direction generally parallel to the back of a user. In one example, the vibration decoupler is in use mounted to the tube such that the tube approaches co-linearly therewith.

In one example, the vibration decoupler in use cooperates with a stabiliser to hold the tube and headgear in fixed arrangement relative to one another. In one example, the tube and/or vibration decoupler in use cooperate with a stabiliser provided on the headgear, for example in the form of a loop incorporated onto the hood.

In one example, the vibration decoupler comprises a stent to prevent collapse thereof in use. In one example, the vibration decoupler comprises an internal spacer arrangement to prevent collapse thereof in use. Suitably, the stent or spacer is provided in the vibration decoupler so as not to directly contact the elements upstream or downstream thereof In one example, the vibration decoupler comprises offset first and second ends. In one example, the vibration decoupler comprises a first end that is not perpendicular to its length, and/or a second end that is not perpendicular to its length. In one example, the vibration decoupler is a rhombus or parallelogram shape, when laid flat. In one example, the position and/or angle of the ends of the vibration decoupler are arranged such that in use the downstream and upstream components are in use offset from one another.

In one aspect there is provided headgear, as described with respect to the respirator set out above.

In one aspect there is provided a kit of parts for a respirator, the respirator comprising one or more of: an air supply unit arranged to deliver air at its output; headgear comprising a cradle for interfacing with a users head, and a hood from within which the user breathes; a tube to receive air from the air supply unit; and an interface component to receive air from the tube and to deliver said air within the hood.

In one example, one or more of the components of the kit are as described with respect to the respirator set out above.

In one aspect there is provided a method of assembling a respirator that comprises interface component arrangeable in use to receive air from an air supply tube of the respirator and to deliver said air within a hood of the respirator, wherein the method comprises releasably mounting the interface component.

In one aspect the method is performed with an interface component as described with respect to the respirator set out above. In one example, the respirator comprises headgear comprising a cradle for interfacing with a users head, and a hood from within which the user breathes.

In one example, the method comprises releasably mounting the interface component to the cradle. In one example, the method comprises releasably mounting the interface component to the cradle and to the tube.

In one example, the interface component and cradle each comprise portions of one or more fastenings that cooperate with one another, and the method comprises releasably mounting the interface component to the cradle by said fastenings.

In one example, the interface component and cradle each comprise portions of one or more fastenings that cooperate with one another, and the method further comprises releasing and recoupling said fastenings to mount the interface component to the cradle.

In one example, the method comprises releasably mounting the interface component to the hood. In one example, the interface component comprises a hood fastening and the method comprises releasably mounting the interface component to the hood thereby. In one example, the method comprises releasably mounting the interface component to the tube and the hood.

In one example, the interface component and/or hood comprise releasable and recouplable fastenings, or portions of fastening elements and the method further comprises releasing and recoupling said fastenings to mount the interface component to the hood.

In one example the method comprises selecting an interface component for use in the respirator from a range of possible sizes of interface components, and selecting a hood of the respirator from range of possible sizes of hood s, wherein the range of possible sizes of hood s comprises a smaller number of size options than the number of possible size options of interface components.

According to the present invention, there are provided apparatus and methods as set forth in the appended claims. Other features will be apparent from the statements above and the description which follows.

Brief Introduction to the Figures

For a better understanding of the invention, and to show how arrangements of the same may be carried into effect, reference will now be made, by way of example, to the accompanying diagrammatic drawings in which: Figure 1 shows a schematic overview of a respirator according to an example arrangement; Figure 2 shows an intermediate component according to an example arrangement, viewed from above; Figure 3 shows the intermediate component of Figure 2, viewed from a first side; Figure 4 shows the intermediate component of Figure 2, viewed from a second side; Figure 5 shows the intermediate component of Figure 2, viewed from the front; Figure 6 shows the intermediate component of Figure 2, viewed from the rear; Figure 7 shows the intermediate component of Figure 2, viewed from below; Figure 8 shows an intermediate component according to another example arrangement, viewed from a first side; Figure 9 shows the intermediate component of Figure 8, viewed from the front; Figure 10 shows the intermediate component of Figure 8, viewed from the rear; Figure 11 shows the close-up schematic of the intermediate component of Figure 8 centred on a vibration decoupler thereof; Figure 12 shows first and second example vibration decoupler tubes, for use in a vibration decoupler according to an example arrangement; Figure 13 shows the second example vibration decoupler according to an example arrangement, in use with headgear of a respirator; Figure 14 shows a partial sectional view revealing interior detail of the intermediate component of Figure 2; Figure 15 shows a partial view of the rear, underside aspect of the overhead branch of the intermediate component of Figure 2; Figure 16 shows a partial close-up view of the overheard branch of the intermediate component of Figure 2 Figure 17 shows a partial close-up perspective view of the forehead branch of the intermediate component of Figure 2 Figure 18 shows a side view of an intermediate component according to another example arrangement mounted on a cradle; Figure 19 shows a partial front view of the intermediate component of Figure 18 mounted on a cradle; Figure 20 shows an intermediate component including a bracket; Figure 21 shows a neck seal to form a seal between the user and the hood; Figure 22 shows the hood with a neck seal in combination with the airflow delivery system; and Figure 23 shows a removed reversibly attachable neck seal.

Description of Example Arrangements

Referring now to Figure 1 there is shown a respirator 1. The respirator 1 comprises an air supply unit 2. The air supply unit 2 comprises a battery-powered air blower, fitted with an internal filter so that it in use atmospheric air is taken in by the air supply unit, and delivered at increased pressure to flow from the air supply unit's output 3. The air supply unit 2 mounts to a belt 5 to be conveniently worn on the body of a user of the respirator 1. The respirator 1 comprises powered air-purifying respirator type.

Air from the outlet 3 of the air supply unit 2 is received by a tube 4. An interface component cooperates 100 with headgear 200 to deliver air that is received from the tube 4 to the user of the respirator 1, for breathing by the user. The interface component 100 comprises an internal conduit through which air from the tube 4 at the rear the user's head passes, to be delivered to the front of the user's head, within the headgear 200.

The headgear 200 comprises a cradle 210 for interfacing with a user's head, and by which the headgear 200 is supported in use. The headgear 200 also comprises a hood 220 from within which the user breathes. The hood 220 comprises a fabric headtop 221, and a transparent visor portion 222 for the user the user to see through. At the base of the headtop 221, is a shoulder cape 223 The interface component 100 is coupled to the tube 4, receives air from the tube 4 and delivers said air within the hood 220. As can be appreciated from the shape, the interface component 100 locates over the user's head in use, within the headtop 221.

The interface component 100 by which air is delivered within the hood 220 enables enhanced ergonomics for the headtop 221 and as a consequence for the respirator 1 overall.

In the example arrangement of Figure 1, the tube 4 and cradle 210 are not integral or otherwise directly connected with one another, instead being connected structurally and for air delivery via the interface component 100. Such construction means that these components can be separately specified for a range of different potential users of the respirator 1, such as users having different face and head proportions, facilitating manufacture. As the interface component 100 does not touch or otherwise directly engage the user, a single component can be produced which cooperates with headgear formed of cradle 210 and hood 220 of different sizes for different potential users, with a consistent interface provided for the tube 4.

Features of the interface component 100 enable the interface component 100 of Figures 2 through 7 to be mounted to the cradle 210 and tube 4 in a releasable manner.

Referring now to Figures 2 through 7 and 18 through 20, the interface component 100 comprises cradle-engaging fastenings 110, 112, 114. The interface component 100 and cradle 210 each comprise portions of releasable and re-couplable fastenings that in use to cooperate with each other to mount the interface component 100 to the cradle 210, as described in more detail below.

The cradle 210 comprises threaded bars 211 that extend radially away from the user's head, in this example from the area of the user's temples. The threaded bars 211 are either integral with the cradle 210, or are provided by separate bolts that thread through the cradle 210 and engage suitable footings in the cradle 210. The cradle-engaging fastenings 110, 112 are threaded onto the bars 211 and nuts 212 provided to clamp the cradle 210 and interface component 100 to one another. A secure, yet releasable fastening is thus provided. The fastening is stable, with connections at either side of the cradle 210, and resistant to relative rotation as the surfaces of the cradle-engaging fastenings 110, 112 and the interface component abut one another.

Further stability is provided by the cradle-engaging fastening 114 at the rear of the interface component 100. The cradle 210 comprises a size adjuster 216 for changing its effective circumference, to enable a good fit on a range of different head sizes. The cradle-engaging fastening 114 of the interface component 100 mounts the interface component to the cradle 210 at the size adjuster 216, giving a three-point connection between the components.

The cradle engaging-fastening 114 comprises an abutment which accepts a bracket 116. The bracket 116 connects between the size adjuster 216 of the cradle 210 and cradle-engaging fastening 114 at the rear of the interface component 100, as a 90-degree angle bracket held in place vertically by the abutment of the cradle-engaging fastening 114 and for example by a friction fit with said abutment horizontally.

The interface component 100 comprises a frame for supporting the hood 220. The interface component 100 comprises an overhead branch 130 and a forehead branch 140. The interface component 100 is releasably mounted to the hood 220 by hood fastenings 118, 120 that couple the interface component to the hood 220. The hood fastenings 118 are provided as fixing bosses extending from the forehead branch 140 of the interface component 100, and in use cooperate with the hood by a button-like action to be releasable and re-couplable. The position of the hood fastenings 118 at the outward edge of an outwardly-projecting brim 141 of the forehead branch 140 serves to maintain effective spacing between the hood 220 and the user's face.

As described in more detail below, the tube 4 is either releasably connected to the interface component at tube fastenings elements 150 of the interface component 100, or to interface component 110 and the hood 220 in a combined connection 120, 150. The interface component 110 and tube 4 comprise separately or together releasable and re-couplable fastening elements 150 that cooperate to releasably mount the interface component 110 to the tube 4, and optionally to the hood 220.

The overhead branch 130 comprises a single main air conduit therethrough, with internal cross-section that narrows from the rear, toward the front, along part of its length. In this narrowing portion 131, flow accelerates through the conduit, for better delivery from the forehead branch, as will be described later. The shape of the central part of the overhead branch 130, which comprises a generally flattened internal and external cross-section, reduces the overhead clearance needed for the respirator. The shaping of overhead branch 130 also services to quieten the flow of air through the conduit avoiding abrupt pressure changes associated with sharp bends and changes in cross section. The narrowing portion 131 may transition along its length so as to narrow in the vertical direction, with a corresponding smaller increase in width in another direction, such as the horizontal direction to achieve a suitable reduction in overall cross-sectional area To further reduce the noise of air moving through and discharging from the interface component 100, bleed holes 135 are provided in the narrowing portion 131 of the overhead branch 130. In the examples show in the Figures, the bleed holes 135 open toward the user's head. The bleed holes 135 reduce pressure in the interface component 100, and provide cooling air flow to the top of the users head. The bleed holes 135, and the movement of airtherethrough and over their apertures serves to change the general flow pattern of air passing through the narrowing portion 131 of the overhead branch 130 to further reduce noise. The bleed holes 135 are angled to pass through the wall of the narrowing portion 131 of the overhead branch 130 with the airflow therethrough making an acute angle to the direction of airflow in the overhead branch 130. This arrangement has been found to be particularly effective in reducing noise. Bleed holes with a cross section of around 3mm diameter have been found effective in reducing noise, for typical flow rates expected in a respirator as described.

Delivery of air from the interface component 100 takes place by diverging the flow in a divergent portion 132 of the overhead branch 130. The divergent portion 132 is arranged to feed air to the forehead branch 140. In the arrangements shown, the overhead branch 130 comprises a divergent portion 132 which is fan-shaped. The divergent portion 132 is divergent in the width direction, but may conveniently be of constant height away from the head to maintain clearance, and further curved around the contour of the forehead to match the curve of the forehead branch 140. The forehead branch 140 comprises a vent 142 for delivery of air from the interface component 100 within the hood 220. In the arrangements shown in the Figures a single vent 142 that is relatively wide is provided, in order to facilitate discharge therefrom.

The vent 142 is generally divergent toward its open end, and comprises at its extremity a bevelled edge 143. The bevelled edge 143 provides a further degree of local divergence at the edge of the vent 142, at the interface with the brim 141 of the forehead branch 140. The divergence toward the open end of the vent, both large and small on account of the general shape and the bevelled edge respectively, serves to control discharge from the vent 142 to produce quiet operation, and to avoid a potentially irritating direct curtain of air impinging on the user's face.

In the examples shown in the Figures, the interface component 100 is mounted to the tube 4 such that the tube 4 approaches the interface component 100 in a vertically upward direction, generally parallel to the users back. In this configuration, in arrangement with air supply unit 2 mounted to a belt 5, the tube 4 is conveniently routed to directly approaches the interface component 100, and to align and connect generally co-linearly with a rising part 136 of the overhead branch 130 of the interface component 100. By providing an interface at a rising part 136 of the overhead branch 130, increased user comfort may be experienced, as the weight of the tube 4 acts on the headgear 200 with minimal additional turning moment from a horizontally extending part of the tube that would otherwise project away from the user's head and produce a torque thereon due to its weight.

Figures 8 through 13 and 20 show an example respirator 1 that comprises a vibration decoupler 160, 160', or show component elements thereof. Vibrations arise in the tube 4 because of the action of the air supply unit 2, and/or from the action of movement of air within the tube 4. The vibration decoupler 160 is provided between the air supply unit 2 and the interface component 110. By providing a vibration decoupler, vibration from the air supply unit 2 and/or tube 4 is not passed through the respirator to the user, meaning that the respirator is quieter for the user.

In the examples shown, the vibration decoupler 160 is provided between the tube 4 and the interface component 110, as a convenient position to decouple the interface component 100 from vibrations passing along the tube 4.

The vibration decoupler 160 comprises a thin, pliable fabric tube, formed from a flat pattern piece. Figure 12 shows two vibration decouplers 160, 160', flattened to form the shape of a parallelogram and a rectangle respectively. The vibration decouplers 160, 160' are respectively formed by welding a seam along the edges of a pattern piece, and by sewing the edges of a pattern piece.

The vibration decoupler 160, comprises offset first and second open ends. As shown in Figure 13, this enables a vertical arrangement of the tube 4 as it interfaces the interface component 100 at the tube fastening 150, and continuing up through the vibration decoupler to the interface component 110, but with a lateral offset to keep the tube 4 in an ergonomic arrangement away from the users neck without requiring the tube 4 to bend. As shown schematically in Figure 11, the vibration decoupler 160' comprises an internal spacer 161 to prevent collapse thereof. The spacer 161 is internal to the tube of the vibration decoupler 160', and is coupled thereto without bridging contact across the tube 4 and the interface component 100.

The respirator 1 is suitable for use in a method of assembly where a relatively smaller range of headgear size options, such as a range that comprises only a large size hood and a small sized hood, can be made to work effectively for the majority of users by specifying an adjustable cradle, and by specifying an interface component that is either personally sized and manufactured by ALM or similar, or from a range of sizes with finer granularity.

Turning to Figure 21 there is provided a PAPR hood 320, with a headtop 321 portion that comprises a transparent visor 322. The visor 322 is framed 300 and sealed in place by the headtop 321 material. At the base of the visor 322 is a further portion of material i.e. an extended portion of the frame 322 which joins to the shoulder cape 323 at a shoulder cape and headtop joint 304. The resilient neck seal 305, an elasticated cotton, provides a comfortable seal 307 with the users neck 305. The neck seal 305, sits around the clavicle (not shown). The neck seal 305 extends inwardly from the shoulder cape and headtop joint 304. The aperture of the neck seal may be extended, to fit a large range of neck sizes. The user's head 301 can freely move within the volume or cavity created by the neck seal 305 and headtop 321, such that a positive airflow from a PAPR system (as shown in earlier Figures, and Figure 22 below), may provide a positive airflow around the user's entire head. This increases comfort and reduces the claustrophobic nature of hoods with face and chin seals, where only part of the face is open to the positive air pressure.

Turning to Figure 22 an interface component cooperates 500 with headgear 200 to deliver air that is received from the tube 4 to the user of the respirator 1, for breathing by the user. The interface component 100 comprises an internal conduit through which air from the tube 4 at the rear the user's head passes, to be delivered to the front of the user's head, within the headgear 200.

The headgear 401 comprises a cradle 503 for interfacing with a users head, and by which the headgear 401 is supported in use. The headgear 420 also comprises a hood 420 from within which the user breathes. The hood 420 comprises a fabric headtop 421, and a transparent visor portion 422 for the user to see through. At the base of the headtop 421, is a shoulder cape 423. The interface component 500 is coupled to a tube (shown earlier as item 4), receives air from the tube and delivers said air within the hood 420. As can be appreciated from the shape, the interface component 500 locates over the user's head in use, within the headtop 421.

The interface component 500 by which air is delivered within the hood 420 enables enhanced ergonomics for the headtop 421 and, as a consequence, for the respirator overall. In the example arrangement cradle 503 and hood 420 are not integral or otherwise directly connected with one another, instead being connected structurally and for air delivery via the interface component 500. Such construction means that these components can be separately specified for a range of different potential users of the respirator 1, such as users having different face and head proportions, facilitating manufacture.

The neck seal 405 extends inwardly from the headtop 421 and is an elasticated ruffle or sock-like material which can be readily expanded to increase the diameter of the aperture 406. The use of an elasticated material allows non-uniform shapes i.e. a user's neck (not shown) to be accommodated and to be sealed. The airflow from the interface component 500 is delivered through the vent 501, over the user's face. Some of the air will also circulate behind the user's head, to provide comfort to the user, and will generally flow out of the hood via the elasticated neck seal. In a preferable example, the air delivered the interface component 500 is uniformly distributed around the hood, thus eliminating voids, eddy-currents and reducing noise.

Tuming to Figure 23 the neck seal 505 has one part of a reversible fastener 510, such as hook or loop, to cooperatively locate and to reversibly fasten to the hood (not shown). The neck seal 505 is an elasticated sock-like material which can be readily expanded to increase the diameter of the aperture 506. To provide further comfort to the user, the aperture terminates in a raised collar 511, which extends substantially orthogonally to the neck seal 505. The raised collar 511 provides additional comfort to the user by extending the area of contact of the aperture and raised collar with the user's neck.

As has been described herein, the respirator and associated methods offer a range of wearability enhancements, considering noise and other ergonomic factors, and are flexible to be readily adapted to users of different proportions and sizes, as well as accommodating different cleaning and other serviceability factors required for respirator components.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A hood suitable for use with a powered air purifying respirator (PAPR), comprising a headtop with a shoulder cape extending therefrom, wherein the headtop encapsulates a user's head and neck, wherein said headtop comprises a transparent visor, and wherein the headtop comprises a resilient neck seal, said neck seal extending inwardly from the headtop to the user's neck, to create an enclosed volume, such that in use, said user's entire head moves freely therein.
2. The hood of claim 1, wherein the headtop is attached to the shoulder cape.
3. The hood of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the neck seal is fastened at a headtop and shoulder cape joint.
4. The hood of any preceding claim, wherein the visor is hermitically sealed and framed within the headtop such that the head top extends downwardly from the visor to the headtop and shoulder cape joint.
5. The hood of claim 4, wherein a portion of the headtop extends downwardly from the visor to the headtop and shoulder cape joint.
6. The hood of any preceding claim, wherein the headtop and shoulder cape joint, and neck seal form a cavity to allow positive airflow to surround the user's entire head.
7. The hood of any preceding claim, wherein the headtop and shoulder cape joint and neck seal are sewn, adhesively bonded, or mechanically fastened, to create an hermetic seal.
8. The hood of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the neck seal is reversibly attached to the headtop and shoulder cape joint, by a reversible fastener.
9. The hood of claim 8, wherein the reversible fastener is a hook and loop fastener, press-stud, or zip.
10. The hood of any preceding claim wherein the resilient neck seal is an elasticated fabric.
11. The hood of any preceding claim wherein the neck seal has an aperture with a radius which extends in the range of from 1cm to 15cm.
12. The hood according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the aperture terminates in a raised collar, which in use extends up the user's neck.
13. A respirator system comprising an air supply unit arranged to deliver air at its output headgear comprising a cradle for interfacing with a user's head, and a hood according to any one of the preceding claims from within which the user breathes; a tube to receive air from the air supply unit; and an air interface component to receive air from the tube and to deriver said air within the hood
14. The respirator of claim 13, wherein the interface component provides a frame for supporting the hood, and comprises an overhead branch and a forehead branch, wherein the overhead branch comprises a divergent portion to feed air to the forehead branch, to provide a curtain of air between the hood and the user's eyes, nose and mouth.
15. The respirator of claim 13 or 14, wherein the interface component mounts to the tube such that the tube approaches the interface component in a direction generally parallel to a user's back, aligned with a rising part of the overhead branch of the interface component.
16 The respirator of any preceding claim 13 to 15, wherein the overhead branch comprises one or more bleed holes, such that in use vibrations from the air supply and tube are reduced.
17. The respirator of any preceding claim 13 to 16, comprising a vibration decoupler, provided between the air supply unit and the interface component.
18 A hood suitable for use with a powered air purifying respirator (PAPR), comprising a headtop, wherein the headtop encapsulates a user's head and neck, wherein said headtop comprises a transparent visor, and wherein the headtop comprises a resilient neck seal, said neck seal extending inwardly from the headtop to the user's neck, to create an enclosed volume, such that in use, said user's entire head moves freely therein.