WO2022128771A1

WO2022128771A1 - Individually portable fan-assisted apparatus having a removable air distribution element

Info

Publication number: WO2022128771A1
Application number: PCT/EP2021/085157
Authority: WO
Inventors: Yohan DASSONVILLE; Florent Corlay
Original assignee: Seb S.A.
Priority date: 2020-12-17
Filing date: 2021-12-10
Publication date: 2022-06-23
Also published as: EP4263000A1

Abstract

The invention relates to an individually portable fan-assisted apparatus (1) comprising: - an annular main body (2) suitable for being worn around the neck or the head, including a front central element (3) comprising an air inlet (10), a fan and an air outlet, and two retaining branches (4) for retaining the main body in position; - an air distribution element (15) including an air distribution outlet (16) configured so as to blow a flow of air from the fan towards the respiratory tracts of a user, to face towards and remain at a distance from the respiratory tracts, and centered on an axis within a median sagittal plane (Ps) of the user, the air distribution element being removably assembled with the front central element so as to provide aeraulic communication between the air outlet of the front central element and the air distribution outlet.

Description

ASSISTED VENTILATION APPARATUS, INDIVIDUALLY PORTABLE, WITH REMOVABLE AIR DISTRIBUTION ELEMENT

The present invention relates to the general technical field of assisted ventilation devices, such as in particular assisted ventilation air filtration devices.

The invention relates more particularly to an individually portable assisted ventilation device, that is to say portable on it by a user.

Assisted ventilation devices are already known, which are designed to deliver a flow of forced air to a user in order to provide him with respiratory aid. These are typically devices comprising a mask provided with an air outlet, which is intended to be held pressed against the face of the user, so as to cover his nose and his mouth, for example at the help of rubber bands passed around the head of the user. The mask is connected to a blower comprising a fan, via a flexible air pipe. Although labeled as "non-invasive", such a device is relatively obstructive to the user. The user cannot easily transport it with him, set it up and use it easily outside his home or a particular place of care without the help of a third party. These known devices are therefore generally dedicated to stationary use, typically under professional medical supervision. Assisted ventilation air filtration devices are also known. These devices are designed to deliver a forced air flow to a user, from ambient air, which has been previously filtered in order to at least partially rid it of certain pollutants. Such devices are more specifically designed to provide respiratory protection for their users, by limiting their inhalation of respiratory pollutants, fine particles and other substances with potentially deleterious health effects present in the surrounding air. Such assisted ventilation air filtration devices typically include an air inlet, a fan to generate a forced air flow from ambient air taken from the immediate environment, one or more filters to filter the bleed air, and an air outlet via which a flow of forced and filtered air can thus be delivered to the user. Such assisted ventilation air filtration devices have recently been introduced to overcome a certain number of drawbacks of passive individual respiratory protection equipment, such as conventional filtering masks, for example integral filtering masks, covering the whole of the face, or half-masks that only cover a lower portion of the user's face, including the nose and mouth. This passive personal respiratory protection equipment is also called "free ventilation", insofar as the passage of air through the filter is ensured solely due to the respiratory exchanges of the user. Although designed to be worn by their users, and to accompany the latter in the exercise of a professional activity for example, such assisted ventilation air filtration devices nevertheless generally remain cumbersome, impractical to store and to transport, and complex to put in place correctly for a user unaccustomed to their use. This is why these known devices are generally intended for the protection of users in a professional context, for example for the individual protection of workers and technicians, firefighters, soldiers, etc.

Whether or not they provide an air filtration function, the known assisted ventilation devices are often not very ergonomic, not very pleasant to use, so that their use can sometimes prove to be very restrictive. They do not always allow an optimal direction of the air flow towards the respiratory tract of the user. Generally designed to be at least partly attached to the user's head, and covering part or all of the user's face, known devices may interfere with the user's visibility and / or communication with their personal surroundings. or professional. Partially hiding the face of their user, these devices can also interfere with the proper functioning of electronic facial recognition systems, such as those fitted to telephones or computers. In addition, their use is sometimes incompatible with the simultaneous wearing of glasses, headgear (hat, cap, helmet, etc.), over- or extra-auricular helmets (audio or sound protection), etc., or still using makeup.

The objects assigned to the invention therefore aim to provide an answer to the above-mentioned problems, by proposing in particular a new device with assisted ventilation, individually portable by a user, which is particularly ergonomic, easy and pleasant to use.

Another object of the invention aims to provide a new device with assisted ventilation whose port is particularly pleasant, comfortable and not very obstructive for the user.

Another object of the invention aims to provide a new assisted ventilation device which can be easily adapted to users of different morphologies.

Another object of the invention aims to provide a new device with assisted ventilation which can be easily transported or stored after use.

Another object of the invention aims to provide a new ventilation device whose use is particularly intuitive.

Another object of the invention aims to provide a new assisted ventilation device which contributes to preserving the respiratory health of the user.

Another object of the invention aims to provide a new assisted ventilation device which is of particularly reliable and robust construction.

The objects assigned to the invention are achieved with the aid of an individually portable assisted ventilation device, comprising an at least partially annular main body intended to be worn around the neck or the head by a user and including:
- a central front element which comprises at least one air inlet, a fan and an air outlet,
- at least two holding branches connected to said front central element and configured to sufficiently surround the user's neck or head in order to ensure that the main body is held around the user's neck or head,
said apparatus comprising an air distribution member including an air distribution outlet configured to blow a flow of air generated by the ventilator towards the airways of the user, said air distribution outlet being arranged and configured to be opposite and at a distance from said respiratory tract, in a centered manner along a vertical axis included in a median sagittal plane of the user, said air distribution element being assembled to said front central element, in a retractable or removable manner , to ensure an aeraulic communication of the air outlet of the front central element with said air distribution outlet.

Other features and advantages of the invention will appear and emerge in more detail on reading the description given below, with reference to the appended figures, given solely by way of illustrative and non-limiting examples, among which:

illustrates, in a schematic front view, a particular embodiment of an assisted ventilation device according to the invention, which device is illustrated worn by a human user. The apparatus constitutes, in this particular embodiment, an air filtration apparatus with assisted ventilation. The main body of the device here forms a substantially annular body portable around the neck of the user;

illustrates, in a schematic perspective view, the apparatus of the worn by a human user around their neck. Air circulation is represented by arrows;

illustrates, according to a schematic top view, the device of Figures 1 and 2, whose air distribution element, removable in this embodiment, is assembled to the front central element of the main body of the device to ensure airflow communication between the air outlet of the front central element and the air distribution outlet formed by the air distribution element. Separate from each other in this particular embodiment, the main body holding branches are illustrated here in a deployed configuration;

illustrates, in a schematic top view, the device of Figures 1 to 3, whose main body holding branches are here illustrated in a folded configuration;

illustrates, according to a schematic top view, the device of Figures 1 and 4, whose removable air distribution element has been separated, detached, from the front central element of the main body of the device, and n is not shown. The main body holding branches are shown here in a deployed configuration;

illustrates, according to a schematic view in right side perspective, the apparatus of FIGS. 1 to 5, the removable air distribution element of which is illustrated separated and remote from the front central element of the main body of the apparatus;

illustrates the device of Figures 1 to 6 according to a sectional view AA (see ) along the combined respective median sagittal planes of the main body and of the air distribution element;

schematically illustrates the apparatus of Figures 1 to 7, according to a front view in section BB (see ) along a plane orthogonal to a median transverse plane of the main body;

schematically illustrates, in a rear view, the apparatus of Figures 1 to 8. The air distribution element comprises a shell which is transparent or translucent, through which are visible two magnets which comprise assembly means magnetic removable from the air distribution element to the front central element;

illustrates, in an exploded schematic view in left side perspective, the apparatus of Figures 1 to 9, whose air distribution element is different from that illustrated in Figures 1 to 9;

illustrates, in a schematic front view, the air distribution element according to the variant illustrated in ;

illustrates, in a schematic rear view, the air distribution element of the ;

illustrates, according to a schematic front perspective view, another variant of the air distribution element;

illustrates, according to a schematic rear perspective view, the air distribution element of the ;

illustrates, in a schematic front view, another variant of the air distribution element;

illustrates, in a schematic rear view, the air distribution element of the ;

illustrates, in a schematic rear perspective view from above, the air distribution element of the ;

illustrates, according to a schematic rear perspective view, the air distribution element of the .

The invention relates to a device 1 with assisted ventilation, individually portable, that is to say portable on it by a user (human or possibly animal). It is therefore advantageously active respiratory equipment which is designed and configured to be worn on it by a user, human or animal, and to deliver to this user a flow F of forced air from ambient air. It is preferably a device 1 intended for use in a domestic setting and / or in the context of the exercise of a professional activity, by a user who does not have specific professional skills in respiratory health.

The device 1 according to the invention comprises an at least partially annular main body 2 intended to be worn around the neck (FIGS. 1 and 2) or the head by a user (or "wearer"). Said main body 2 is therefore intended to be worn around a portion of the user's body which is formed by the user's neck or head. The main body 2 of the device 1 therefore has in particular a shape and a mass advantageously adapted to be worn by the user around his neck, or respectively his head. Here, the term "annular" advantageously means the fact that the main body 2 advantageously has a ring shape, substantially oval or circular, or even rectangular. Advantageously, the term "partially annular" means an open shape up to a quarter turn of the ring, which, if it were continuous, would then be annular. Such an at least partially annular shape of the main body 2 of the device 1 contributes to excellent ergonomics and great comfort of use of the device 1. Preferably, as in the embodiment illustrated in the figures, said body Principal 2 is more specifically intended to (and therefore more specifically designed and configured to) be worn around the user's neck. In particular, the at least partially annular shape of the main body 2 of the device 1 facilitates not only the positioning, but also the wearing of the main body 2 by the user around his neck, the main body 2 possibly being able to rest at least partly on the shoulders of the user, once set up. Wearing the device 1 is thus particularly comfortable for the user, whose hands can advantageously remain free, the main body 2 of the device 1 advantageously accompanying the movements of the user without hampering or hindering them particularly.

The main body 2 of the device 1 includes a central front element 3, that is to say an element which is intended to be positioned at the front of the body (and in particular the neck or the head) of the user, advantageously substantially centered along a vertical axis (or at the very least orthogonal to a transverse plane of the user) included in a median sagittal plane Ps of the user), when the main body 2 is carried around neck (figures 1 and 2) or head by the user. The main body 2 of the device 1 further includes at least two holding branches 4, which are connected to said front central element 3, preferably on either side of the latter, said holding branches 4 being configured to surround sufficiently the neck (FIGS. 1 and 2) or the head of the user in order to ensure that the main body 2 is maintained around the neck or, respectively, the head of the user. Placing the device 1 around the user's neck or head is particularly easy, since it does not require precise adjustment of the main body 2 of the device 1, but only involves checking that the The central front element 3 is well positioned in front of the neck, respectively of the head, of the user, advantageously in a substantially centered manner.

Advantageously, the front central element 3 has a front face 5, which is oriented towards the outside of the main body 2 and is intended to be oriented towards the front of the user in use of the device 1. The face front 5 advantageously defines a visible outer surface portion of the main body 2 (FIGS. 1 and 2 in particular). The central front element 3 advantageously has a rear face 6 opposite said front face 5. The rear face 6 is oriented towards the inside of the main body 2, and therefore facing the body of the user in use of the device. 1. Said rear face 6 advantageously defines a visible inner surface portion of the main body 2, at the very least when the latter is not worn by the user. Conversely, each of the holding branches 4 has an external face 7, which is oriented towards the outside of the main body 2 and which advantageously defines another visible external surface portion of the main body 2, and an opposite internal face 8. Oriented towards the inside of the main body 2, and therefore opposite the body of the user in use of the device 1, said internal face 8 advantageously defines another visible internal surface portion of the main body 2, at the very least when the latter is not worn by the user. The rear face 6 of the front central element 3 and the internal faces 8 of the retaining arms 4 advantageously have a preferably curved, concave profile, with a concavity oriented towards a free space 9 defined at the center of the main body 2. the device 1, the free space 9 is at least partially occupied by the neck or by the head of the user, the internal surface of the main body 2 then being oriented facing the neck or the head of the user. Advantageously, in the preferential case where the main body 2 is intended to be worn around the neck, the main body 2 is dimensioned so that its internal surface is not in immediate close contact with the neck of the user, when the latter is equipped with the apparatus 1, but that there is on the contrary a certain clearance between the skin of the neck of the user and the said internal surface, at least on a part of the periphery of the free space 9 in the center of the main body 2 of device 1 ( ). The wearing comfort of the appliance 1 is thus further improved, by reducing the risk of feeling of strangulation for the user. This also advantageously allows the user to wear the device 1 in combination with a scarf wrapped around his neck, in winter for example.

Advantageously unique, that is to say constituting a single coherent subset of the main body 2, the central front element 3 of the main body 2 of the device 1 comprises at least one air inlet 10, a fan 11 (or "fan motor unit") to generate a (forced) air flow F and an air outlet 12. The front central element 3 typically includes a housing 13, an outer surface of which advantageously defines an envelope external of the front central element 3 and therefore in particular said front 5 and rear 6 faces of the latter. The housing 13, within which the fan 11 is advantageously arranged, carries or defines said air inlet 10 and said air outlet 12. The air inlet 10 of the front central element 3, the fan 11 and the air outlet 12 of the front central element 3 are in aeraulic communication, so that the fan 11 in operation draws in surrounding air external to the device 1 via said air inlet 10 in order to to blow it in the direction of said air outlet 12. The fact, in particular, that the fan 11 is thus embedded within the front central element 3, and not remote from the latter, for example within a side or rear element of the main body 2, advantageously contributes to the comfort and stability of wearing the main body 2 of the device 1 around the user's neck or head, in particular when the user is moving . Advantageously, as in the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the main body 2 may comprise a protective grille 14 for the air inlet 10 of the front central element 3.

The device 1 according to the invention comprises, in addition to said main body 2, an air distribution element 15 which includes, which defines, an air distribution outlet 16 configured to blow the flow F of air generated by the ventilator 11 towards the airway (nose and/or mouth) of the user. Advantageously, the air distribution element 15 constitutes, or at the very least defines, an air diffuser. As illustrated by example in Figures 1 and 2, said air distribution outlet 16 is designed and configured to be opposite and at a distance from said respiratory tract, centered along a vertical axis (or at the very least along a orthogonal to a transverse plane of the user) included in the median sagittal plane Ps of the user, in order to allow a particularly precise and efficient air distribution. In the preferential case where the main body 2 is intended to be worn around the neck, said air distribution outlet 16 is preferentially designed and configured so as to blow the flow F of forced air generated by the fan 11 in a direction ascending or horizontal average in the direction of the user's airways. Advantageously, as illustrated in the figures, the device 1 has no part or element provided, that is to say specifically designed and configured, to come into direct contact with the face (and in particular with the cheeks, chin, eyes, mouth and/or nose) of the user, in particular to guide the flow F of air distributed by the air distribution outlet 16 and/or to ensure airtightness between the air distribution outlet 16 and the user's respiratory tract. The device 1 is therefore advantageously designed and configured to be worn by the user without contact between the device 1 and the face (and in particular the cheeks, chin, eyes, mouth and/or nose) of the user. 'user. Wearing the device 1 is thus particularly comfortable, not very obstructive, for the user.

In accordance with the invention, the air distribution element 15 is assembled to said front central element 3, in a retractable or removable manner, to ensure airflow communication between the air outlet 12 of the front central element 3 with said air distribution outlet 16. In other words, the device 1 is designed and configured so that the air distribution element 16 can evolve between:
- a first position, functional, in which the air distribution element 15 is assembled to the front central element 3 and ensures airflow communication between the air outlet 12 of the front central element 3 and the air distribution outlet 16 (Figures 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 8 and 9), and
- a second, non-functional position (or detached/retracted position), in which the air distribution element 15 does not provide airflow communication between the air outlet 12 of the front central element 3 and the air distribution outlet 16 (FIGS. 5 and 6).

Typically, the air distribution element 15 includes an air intake inlet 17 and defines an air duct to guide air from said air intake inlet 17 to said air distribution outlet 16 In said first position of the air distribution element 15, the flow F of air generated by the fan 11, and leaving the front central element 3 through the air outlet 12 of the latter, therefore penetrates into the air distribution element 15 via said air intake inlet 17 and is blown towards the airway of the user via said air distribution outlet 16. In said second position of the air distribution element 15, the flow F of air generated by the fan 11 may possibly exit from the front central element 3 through the air outlet 12 of the latter, but does not penetrate not into the air distribution element 15 via said air intake inlet 17 and is therefore not a advantageously not blown towards the airways of the user via said air distribution outlet 16.

As introduced above, the device 1 is designed and configured in such a way that the passage of the air distribution element 15, from said first position to said second position, can therefore be achieved:
- either by separation, detachment, of the air distribution element 15 and of the central front element 3, according to a preferred variant implemented in the embodiment illustrated in the figures (removably assembled),
- Either by retracting the air distribution element 15 relative to the central front element 3, according to a variant not shown. In this variant, which is less advantageous because it is more complex to implement, the air distribution element 15 can, for example, be designed and configured to retract inside the front central element 3, or even to be folded against the latter, to pass from the first position to the second position. Conversely, the device 1 is advantageously designed and configured in such a way that the passage of the air distribution element 15, from said second position to said first position, can therefore be achieved by assembly, attachment, of the air distribution 15 and the front central element 3, or respectively by unfolding the air distribution element 15 relative to the front central element 3.

Such a removable or retractable character of the air distribution element 15 gives the device 1 according to the invention a particularly ergonomic character, easy and pleasant to use. Indeed, it is thus possible for the user to detach or retract the air distribution element 15, typically when the device 1 is not in operation, so as to free up more space in front of its face in order, for example, to be able to eat, drink or even chat more easily, without necessarily having to detach, remove, beforehand the main body 2 of the device 1 that he wears around his neck or head. When the user wishes to use the device 1 again, all he has to do is reposition the air distribution element 15 in its first functional position. The removable or retractable nature of the air distribution element 15 also advantageously allows easier storage, with a smaller footprint, of the device 1 after use.

According to the advantageous variant mentioned above, the air distribution element 15 is removably assembled to said central front element 3, so that the latter can therefore be advantageously completely separated from each other by the user, (i.e. they can be detached from each other, so as to retain no residual physical link between them). This facilitates in particular the maintenance, repair and cleaning of the device 1, the air distribution element 15 thus being able to be detached to be washed or discarded after use, or to be replaced by another air distribution element. air 15 when worn. It also becomes possible to envisage that the main body 2 of the device 1 can be used successively by a plurality of users, for example by several members of the same family, each user then being able to advantageously use the main body 2 in combination with an air distribution element 15 adapted to its particular morphology and / or its needs. Symmetrically, it becomes possible to design, manufacture and distribute at a lower cost a device 1 that is easily adaptable to a wide range of users, since the device 1 can thus comprise a "generic" main body 2, which can be used with a whole range of 15 different and interchangeable air distribution elements.

Figures 11 to 20 thus illustrate, as examples, removable air distribution elements 15 of different configurations, conformations and/or dimensions, which could each be alternately assembled to the main body 2 of the device 1 of Figures 1 to 10, in place and place of the air distribution element 15 illustrated in some of these figures. For the sake of simplicity, identical references have been used in the figures illustrating the various examples of air distribution elements 15.

Preferably, in the case where the main body 2 is intended to be worn around the neck as in the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the air outlet 12 of the front central element 3 is carried by an upper face 18 of the front central element 3, that is to say that said air outlet 12 is carried by (defined by, arranged on or even provided in) at least a portion of a face of the latter which is intended to be oriented upwards in use of the device 1, and which advantageously connects together the front 5 and rear 6 faces of the front central element 3. Conversely, in the case where the main body 2 is intended to be worn around the head, the air outlet 12 of the front central element 3 can, on the contrary, be preferentially carried by a lower face of the front central element 3, opposite to said upper face 18, that is that is to say that said air outlet 12 is then preferably carried by (defined by, arranged on or even arranged in) at least a portion of a face of the front central element 3 which is intended to be oriented downwards in use of the device 1, and which advantageously connects together the front 5 and rear 6 faces of the front central element 3. This facilitates the design of the device 1, and also advantageously allows easy assembly / disassembly or retraction / unremoval of the air distribution element 15 by the user, even when this last wears main body 2 of device 1 around his neck or head.

When it occupies said first position, as illustrated in Figures 1 to 4 and 7 to 9, the air distribution element 15 advantageously extends in height along an axis X-X' of average extension which is preferably substantially orthogonal to a median transverse plane P1 of the main body 3 of the device 1, between on the one hand a lower end 19 which defines a base 20, carrying the air intake inlet 17, and at which the The air distribution element 15 is aeraulically connected to the air outlet 12 of the central front element 3 and, on the other hand, an opposite upper end 21. In use of the device 1, the axis X-X' of average extension of the air distribution element 15 is advantageously intended to be included in the median sagittal plane Ps of the user (FIGS. 1 and 2).

Preferably, the air distribution element 15 has a hollow shape, that is to say a cavity, which defines said aeraulic duct for guiding air from the air intake inlet 17 towards the air distribution outlet 16, and which is generally convergent from said lower end 19 towards said upper end 21. Advantageously, the air distribution element 15 comprises an airtight front face 22, oriented towards the outside of the device 1 and towards the front of the user in use of the device 1, and which connects the lower end 19 to the upper end 21. Advantageously, the air distribution element 15 comprises a rear face 23 opposite said front face 22, said front face 22 and rear face 23 being advantageously interconnected by their respective edges. Advantageously, said rear face 23 carries or defines said air distribution outlet 16, which may comprise, for example, a single through opening (FIGS. 3, 4, 7 to 10, 12, 14, 18 and 20) or a plurality small through holes ( ) formed in the rear face 23 of the air distribution element 15. The upper end 21 of the air distribution element 15 is in this case advantageously closed, airtight.

As illustrated in the examples in the figures, the air distribution element 15 preferably comprises a shell 24 which carries, or defines, the air distribution outlet 16. The shell 24 advantageously defines said base 20, front face 22 and face rear 23 of the air distribution element 15. Said shell 24 is advantageously rigid, that is to say substantially devoid of plasticity and substantially not elastically deformable manually by the user, so in particular as to give the air distribution element 15 great robustness in use. For example, shell 24 is made of plastic. The shell 24 can be formed from a single, monolithic piece (for example, molded or machined), or even, for example, from two half-shells assembled together (for example, by gluing or snap-fastening). Preferably, the shell 24 of the air distribution element 15 is transparent or translucent, at least locally and preferably mostly if not totally, so as to limit the visual masking of the user's face by the device 1 when using it. Advantageously, such a transparent or translucent shell 24 can play the role of visor, windbreak. Optionally, the shell 24 of the air distribution element 15 can be provided with special manual gripping zones, remote from the air distribution outlet 26, via which the user can manually grasp the element air distribution 15 to retract it or to disassemble it from (or conversely to assemble it to) the front central element 3. For example, said particular manual gripping zones may comprise recesses 25 formed in the surface of the shell 24 of the air distribution element 15, as illustrated by example in Figures 15 to 18, or comprise a piece of non-slip material, for example glued to the shell 24, to allow particularly easy manual gripping of the air distribution element 15. However, the presence of such particular areas for manual gripping is not strictly necessary, the shell 24 can more generally be shaped so as to allow one easy handling by the user.

Preferably, when the air distribution element 15 occupies said first position (functional, assembled position) in which the air outlet 12 of the front central element 3 is in aeraulic communication with said air distribution outlet. air 16, said air distribution element 15 extends projecting from the front central element 3 over a maximum height Hmax of between 30 mm and 100 mm, preferably between 40 mm and 80 mm and for example 59 mm or 70 mm. In the preferential case where the main body 2 is intended to be worn around the neck, said air distribution element 15 then preferably extends projecting from the front central element 3 from the upper face 18 of the latter , said air outlet 12 of the front central element 3 being advantageously carried by said upper face 18 of the latter (FIGS. 1 to 10). In the case where the main body 2 is intended to be worn around the head, said air distribution element 15 can then advantageously extend projecting from the front central element 3 from the underside of the latter. , opposite to said upper face 18. Advantageously, said maximum height Hmax corresponds to the greatest length of the air distribution element 15 3 , measured along its axis X-X' of mean extension. Such sizing advantageously makes it possible to define an air distribution outlet 16 which ensures optimal blowing of the air flow F in the direction of the user's respiratory tract, while nevertheless allowing positioning of the central element before 3 the as far as possible from the face of the user, which contributes to great comfort in wearing the device 1. In the preferred variant where the air distribution element 15 is removably assembled to the central element front 3, the same main body 2 can thus be advantageously associated alternately with air distribution elements 15 of different maximum height Hmax, to better adapt the device 1 to the morphology of the user.

Advantageously, as illustrated by example in Figures 1 to 10, the air inlet 10 of the front central element 3 is carried by the front face 5 of the front central element 3. The air inlet 10 is therefore carried by (defined by, arranged on or even arranged in) a face of the front central element 3 which, as already mentioned above, is arranged towards the outside of the main body 2 of the device 1 and which is intended to be oriented towards the front of the user in use of the device 1. This allows in particular a simple and efficient aeraulic design of the device 1, as well as the definition of a good overall aesthetic of the latter .

Preferably, in the case where the main body 2 is intended to be worn around the neck by the user, said air inlet 10 is arranged at an altitude lower than a respective altitude of the air outlet 12 of the front central element 3, as in the relationship mode illustrated in the figures, at the very least when the main body 2 of the device 1 is positioned around the user's neck. More preferably still, the device 1 is designed and configured so that, when the air distribution element 15 is assembled to the front central element 3, and therefore occupies said first position described above, the air outlet 12 of the front central element 3 is advantageously arranged at an altitude less than or equal to a respective average altitude of the air distribution outlet 16. Such an arrangement advantageously makes it possible to limit the air pressure losses of the device 1 and thus limit the power required of the motor of the fan 11 and therefore limit the nuisance, sound in particular, related to the wearing of a motor close to the user's head. In addition, the use of a lower power motor makes it possible to limit the energy consumption of the device 1 and therefore to increase the autonomy. Conversely, in the case where the main body 2 is intended to be worn around the head by the user, said air inlet 10 is preferably arranged at an altitude higher than a respective altitude of the air outlet 12 of the central front element 3, at the very least when the main body 2 of the device 1 is positioned around the head of the user.

In order to allow a manual reversible assembly (that is to say without using a tool external to the device 1), simple and fast, of the air distribution element 15 to the central front element 3, the apparatus 1 can advantageously comprise, as in the embodiment illustrated in the figures, means for assembling the air distribution element 15 to said central front element 3 which cooperate magnetically to maintain the air distribution element 15 assembled to the front central element 3, in said first position, and thus ensure the aeraulic communication of the air outlet 12 of the front central element 3 with said air distribution outlet 16. For example, as illustrated in the figures, said assembly means (or magnetic removable assembly means) may comprise:
- on the one hand, one or more permanent magnets 26A, arranged within the air distribution element 15, typically in the immediate vicinity of the base 20 of the latter and,
- on the other hand, one or more permanent magnets 26B, arranged within the central front element 3, typically in the immediate vicinity of the upper face 18 of the latter, so that said

magnets

26A, 26B cooperates ( nt) magnetically to maintain the air distribution element 15 assembled to the central front element 3, typically via said base 20. Alternatively, according to a variant not shown, the permanent magnet(s) 26A of the air distribution element 15, or the permanent magnet or magnets 26B of the front central element 3 could be replaced for the same purposes by a part made of a ferromagnetic material. Not very complex and expensive to implement, such removable magnetic assembly means also have the advantage of allowing assembly of the air distribution element 15 to the front central element 3 by bringing the substantially smooth surfaces, if not substantially flat, which makes it possible to limit the fouling of the device 1 at the level of the interface between the air distribution element 15 and the front central element 3 and to facilitate the cleaning.

Alternatively, according to other variants not illustrated, the device 1 could comprise means for removable assembly of the air distribution element 15 to said front central element 3 by force fitting, by direct screwing of the element of air distribution 15 to said front central element 3, by quarter-turn assembly or by reversible elastic interlocking (clipping). In the latter case, the removable assembly means could comprise, for example, a slide connection, to slidably connect the air distribution element 15 to the front central element 3, and a reversible elastic locking member, to lock the air distribution element 15 in position relative to the front central element 3 after having correctly positioned the air distribution element 15 relative to the front central element 3 by relative sliding to match the air intake inlet 17 of the air distribution element 15 with the air outlet 12 of the front central element 3. Alternatively again, the device 1 could comprise assembly means (removable ) of the air distribution element 15 to said front central element 3 designed and configured to cooperate on the one hand magnetically, and on the other hand by force fitting, sliding or even by reversible elastic fitting (clipping), for maintain the air distribution element 15 assembled to the central front element 3 in a removable, reversible manner.

According to a preferred variant, as in the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the device 1 constitutes more specifically a device 1 for air treatment with assisted ventilation, and more preferably still a device 1 for filtration of air with assisted ventilation. In other words, the device 1 is therefore designed and configured to deliver to the user a flow F of treated air, and preferably filtered, purified, and forced from ambient air. As such, the device 1 advantageously comprises an air filtration device 27, typically including one or more air filters, or is at the very least specifically designed and configured to be used in combination with such an air filtration device. 'air 27. Preferably at least partially removable in order to facilitate maintenance or replacement, the air filtration device 27 can then be advantageously arranged inside the front central element 3, between the inlet 10 and the air outlet 12, upstream and/or downstream of the fan 11 in consideration of the direction of air circulation within the device 1. For example, the air filtration device 27 may comprise one or more air filter(s) 28 advantageously arranged between the air inlet 10 and the fan 11, as in the embodiment illustrated in the figures, which also makes it possible to limit the risk clogging of the fan 11. The role of the filter device ration of air 27 is to separate from the surrounding ambient air, and to retain or destroy, one or more undesirable substances or particles present (s) in suspension, solid (s) or in aerosol (s) in the surrounding ambient air, so that the flow F of forced air delivered by the device 1 to the user is depleted, preferably significantly, of undesirable substances or particles initially present in the surrounding ambient air. By way of solid particles, mention may be made of dust, smoke, solid atmospheric pollutants. The term "aerosol" refers here preferentially to a set of fine particles, solid or liquid, of a substance or a mixture of substances, suspended in a gaseous medium, and which generally have a negligible falling velocity, less than 0.25m/s. In ambient air, under normal conditions, this typically corresponds to particles with dimensions less than 100 µm. This definition covers aerosols containing particles of microbial origin (viruses, bacteria, fungi, etc.), animal or plant origin (pollens, allergens, etc.), also called bioaerosols. The air filtration device 27 is designed and configured, typically in terms of choice of filter(s), depending on the level of filtration performance sought for one or more substances to be filtered. Preferably, the air filtration device 27 of the device 1 is designed and configured to retain aerosols. As such, it advantageously comprises one or more air filter(s), in particular one or more class P1 and/or class P2 filter(s), as defined in particular in the French standards NF EN 143:2000 and NF EN 143/A1:2006, and which stop at least 80% of aerosols (class P1) or at least 94% of aerosols (class P2). Preferably, these are HEPA filter(s) (i.e. so-called “High Efficiency Air Particle” filter(s)). The name HEPA applies to any device capable of filtering, in one pass, at least 99.97% of particles with a diameter greater than or equal to 0.3 µm. The air filtration device 27 can comprise several identical or different air filters 28, such as for example an activated carbon filter arranged upstream of a HEPA filter, or even two HEPA filters arranged one behind the other. Still other filters can be considered, depending on the nature of the particles or substances to be filtered, and according to the level of corresponding filtration performance expected, such as for example filters based on polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or ceramic. Optionally, the device 1 may comprise a particle sensor and a device for controlling the rotational speed of the fan 11, connected to said sensor of particles and / or volatile organic compound (s), for adapt the rotational speed of the fan 11 (and therefore the flow rate of the air flow F generated) according to the content of particles and/or volatile organic compound(s) in the air to be filtered .

According to this preferred variant, the device 1 thus advantageously constitutes respiratory protection equipment with assisted ventilation, the use of which contributes to protecting the health and quality of life of the user, in particular in a context of pollution. atmospheric or microbial pandemic/epidemic . The generation of a forced air flow F by the device 1 also offers the advantage of compensating for a loss of air pressure that the air filtration device 27 could generate.

Alternatively, although in a more complex and more expensive way to implement, the device 1 could comprise, instead of the air filtration device 27, an air treatment device designed and configured to treat air otherwise than by filtration, and for example by ionization or even using ultraviolet (UV) light in order to purify it. Alternatively again, the air treatment device could be designed and configured to treat air not in order to purify it, that is to say to rid it of undesirable substances, but to improve other characteristics thereof. for the comfort and/or preservation of the wearer's respiratory health. For example, the air treatment device could be designed and configured to humidify or dry air, to cool or heat air, or even to scent the air, upstream of its delivery to the user.

According to another variant (not illustrated), the apparatus could, on the contrary, be devoid of any air filtration device, as described above. In this case, the device would therefore not be designed to filter, treat, the ambient air before it is delivered to the user in the form of a forced air flow. The device would nevertheless have the advantage of allowing the user a reduced respiratory effort, by facilitating the circulation of air in the bronchi and lungs of the user. In this sense, the use of the device according to this second variant would contribute to protecting, or even improving, the state of health and the quality of life of the user, in particular when the latter is suffering from a dysfunction of the respiratory system (poor functioning of the lungs, weakness of the respiratory muscles, etc.).

Advantageously with regard in particular to robustness and ease of use of the device 1, the holding branches 4 are substantially rigid, that is to say substantially devoid of their own flexibility, and in particular substantially not elastically deformable manually by the user, in normal use of the device 1.

According to a variant (not shown), the holding branches 4 of the main body 2 of the device 1 can form (or belong to) one and the same holding piece, typically in the general shape of a "U", each of said branches of support 4 forming a branch of the "U" shape, at least one of which is connected, fixed, directly to the front central element 3 (removably or permanently). The holding branches 4 would therefore, in this case, be permanently connected to each other, for example at the level of a belly of said "U" shape. Optionally, the other of the legs of the "U" shape would then be connected indirectly to the front center member 3 via the leg which is connected directly to the front center member 3. In use of the device 1, the belly of the "U" shape would therefore advantageously be arranged facing the neck or the back of the user's head, while the branches of the "U" shape would laterally follow the neck or the user's head.

According to a more preferred alternative variant, implemented in the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the holding branches 4 of the main body 2 are separate from each other, and are connected to said central front element 3 on both sides. other of the latter. The holding branches 4 are therefore separated from each other, each constituting a separate holding part from the other. Said holding branches 4 are advantageously shaped and configured so that, in use of the device 1, said holding branches 4 advantageously extend from one end of said holding branches 4 at which the latter are connected to the central front element 3 to a free end 29 opposite each of the holding branches 4, laterally along the neck of the user and at least partially facing the neck of the user (figures 1 and 2), or laterally along the head and at least partially facing the back of the head.

Preferably, as in the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the holding branches 4 of the main body 2 of the device 1 are separate from each other, each of said holding branches 4 being advantageously connected to the element central front 3 of the main body 2, preferably on either side of the latter, by means of articulation 30 to allow the main body 2 to move between a folded configuration of the holding branches 4 and a deployed configuration of the holding branches 4 (and vice versa). The main body 2 is therefore articulated so that the user can pass it, preferably manually, from said folded configuration ( ) to said deployed configuration (FIGS. 1 to 3 and 5 to 10). Thus, the deployed configuration of the holding branches 4 of the main body 2 advantageously corresponds to a configuration of use of the device 1, in which the latter is able to be put in place, worn and put into operation by the user, and wherein the main body 2 occupies a given bulk volume. In said deployed configuration, the main body 2 then has the at least partially annular general shape, as already introduced previously. The folded configuration of the holding branches 4 of the main body 2 advantageously corresponds to a storage configuration, in which the main body 2 occupies a smaller bulk volume. In said folded configuration, the main body 2 then does not necessarily have an at least partially annular general shape. Thanks to the implementation of such articulation means 30, the device 1 is thus particularly easy to put in place around the neck or the head with a view to its use, then to remove, and its size can be significantly reduced. for storage after use. The device 1 can thus advantageously constitute a "nomadic" device, which can easily accompany its user in his daily life and his travels, and be stored easily in a limited space, such as for example in a pocket, a handbag or a little backpack.

According to a preferred variant, implemented in the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the hinge means 30 also constitute means for permanently fixing the holding branches 4 to the front central element 2. Once connected to the front central element 3 via the hinge means 30, the holding branches 4 cannot thus be separated, detached, by the user in normal use of the device 1. This contributes in particular to the simplicity of use of the device 1. According to an alternative variant, the articulation means could, on the contrary, constitute means of reversible, removable fixing of the holding branches 4 to the front central element 3. In this way, the user could separate and reassemble the holding arms 4 and the front central element 3 as desired, for example to replace the holding arms 4 with other compatible holding arms 4.

Preferably, as in the embodiment illustrated in the figures, said articulation means 30 each comprise a hinge, so as to articulate pivotally, according to a simple and intuitive kinematics for the user, the holding branches 4 with respect to the front central element 3. However, other suitable kinematics of articulation means 30 (ball joint, helical connection, pivot-sliding connection, linear connection, annular linear connection, etc.) can of course be envisaged for the purposes above.

Preferably, the device 1 further comprises adjustment means 31 for adjusting a characteristic dimension of the holding branches 4 (whether or not they are distinct, separate, from one another), and more particularly a length of these, and thus adjust the device 1 to the user. By acting on these adjustment means 31, the user can thus adjust the dimensions of the holding arms 4 of the main body 2 of the device 1 according to his own morphology. As in the embodiment illustrated in the figures, said adjustment means 31 can thus be advantageously designed and configured to allow adjustment of the length of the holding branches 4 in order to adjust the dimensions of the main body 2 of the device 1 to the dimensions of the user's neck or head, taking into account, where appropriate, the presence of clothing or a clothing accessory at the level of the user's neck or around the head. Thus, the main body 2 of the device 1 adapts perfectly around the user's neck or head, providing the latter with great comfort in using the device 1. Preferably, said adjustment means 31 include a telescopic slide, which advantageously makes it possible to shorten or lengthen the length of the holding branches 4 at will, in a simple, reliable and robust manner.

Advantageously, the device 1 can include a temporary locking system 32 to reversibly lock the main body 2 attached around the user's neck. Such a temporary locking system 32 advantageously makes it possible in particular to limit the risk of separation of the main body 2 and the body of the user, for example in the event of a strong jolt imparted to the main body 2 during a sudden movement of the user. For example, as in the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the temporary locking system 32 can advantageously be arranged at the level of the free end 29 of each of the holding branches 4, opposite the end of said holding branches 4 at the level of which the latter are connected to the front central element 4 by the hinge means 30. For example, the temporary locking system 32 may comprise magnetic or ferromagnetic elements (including for example one or more permanent magnets), arranged at the free end 29 of each of the holding branches 4 and which cooperate to temporarily maintain the holding branches 4 in magnetic contact, after the main body 2 has been positioned on the user, and the length of the one and/or the other of the holding branches 4 has been adjusted using the adjustment means 31 considered above, if necessary. Thus, as in the example illustrated in the figures, the temporary locking system 32 advantageously makes it possible to join the free ends 29 of the holding branches 4, and to contribute to giving and thus maintaining a closed annular shape of the main body 2 of the device 1, which will thus adapt perfectly to the morphology of the user's neck or head.

Advantageously, as in the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the main body 2 of the device 1 has a median sagittal plane P2 which substantially generally forms a plane of symmetry of said main body 2, which is intended to be arranged merged with the midsagittal plane Ps of the user (Figures 1 and 2). In other words, the main body 2 of the device 1, and in particular the central front element 3 and the holding branches 4 of the latter, are shaped and configured so as to define two portions (typically a straight portion and a left portion) of the main body 2 which have respective geometric envelopes which are substantially identical in mirror image with respect to the median sagittal plane P2 of the main body 2. As illustrated by example in the figures, the holding branches 4 are thus advantageously identical one with respect to the other by mirror symmetry with respect to said median sagittal plane P2 (of symmetry) of the main body 2 of the device 1. The main body 2 is designed and configured so that, when the user is equipped with the device 1, said main body 2 is arranged around the neck (FIGS. 1 and 2) or the head of the user with its median sagittal plane P2 coinciding with the median sagittal plane Ps of the user. Advantageously, said symmetrical portions of the main body 2 have substantially identical respective masses. Advantageously, the air distribution element 15 has a median sagittal plane P3 which forms a plane of symmetry of said air distribution element 15, which coincides with the median sagittal plane P2 of the main body 2, when the element air distribution 15 is assembled to said central front element 3 (first position) (Figures 1 to 4 and 7 to 9). Thus, when the user is equipped with the device 1, said air distribution element 15 is arranged around the neck (FIGS. 1 and 2) or the user's head with its median sagittal plane P3 coinciding with the midsagittal plane Ps of the user. This contributes in particular on the one hand to the aesthetic character of the device 1 and, on the other hand, to the comfort and stability of the wearing of the device 1 by the user, in particular when the user is traveling.

Typically, the fan 11 of the device 1 constitutes a motorized fan unit comprising at least one electric motor and at least one propeller or fan wheel connected to the electric motor. Advantageously, the device 1 also includes a fan control device 11, to allow the user to control its start-up, rotation speed, etc. Advantageously, the fan 11 is a centrifugal fan, or radial turbine fan, and even more advantageously a so-called "squirrel cage" or "action" centrifugal fan. Such a fan 11 indeed has the advantage of allowing the generation of an air flow F of high flow rate and pressure, with excellent efficiency, and for a limited size. In the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the front central element 3 of the device 1 comprises a single fan 11 (or motor-fan unit), in air communication with a single air inlet 10 and with a single air outlet. air 12, via a single internal air duct defined within the front central element 3. However, in variants, the front central element 3 of the device 1 could comprise a plurality of fans in airflow communication, on the one hand each with the same single air inlet or each with a corresponding separate air inlet and, on the other hand each with the air outlet 12 of the front central element 3. Advantageously, the energy necessary for the electrical operation of the device 1, and in particular of the fan 11, is supplied by an electric storage battery, which is preferably arranged inside the front central element 3. Advantageously, the electrical operation of the device 1 is ordered able by the user via at least one on/off button, which is preferably carried by the front central element 3.

Preferably, in the case where the main body 2 is intended to be worn around the neck by the user, the device 1 comprises an altitude adjustment device 33 (or booster) to adjust a positioning altitude of the front center member 3 relative to the user. The altitude adjustment device 33 is therefore designed and configured to allow the user, once the latter has positioned the main body 2 of the device 1 around his neck or his head, to adjust the height positioning of the front central element 3 in relation to the body of the user. Said altitude adjustment device 33 is therefore advantageously designed and configured to move at least the central front element 3 of the main body 2 between a relative high position and a relative low position, and vice versa. The implementation of such an altitude adjustment device 33 advantageously allows the user to adjust the positioning of the main body 2 relative to his body, and in particular to ensure the most comfortable positioning and support. as stable as possible from the air distribution outlet 16, as close as possible (but still at a distance) from the user's respiratory tract. In addition, by maneuvering the altitude adjustment device 33, the user can lower the front central element 3 to facilitate communication with those around him by releasing more free space in front of his face, while maintaining the air distribution element 16 assembled to the front central element 3 in said first position (in the case where the main body 2 is intended to be worn around the neck).

According to an advantageous variant, implemented in the embodiment illustrated in the figures, said altitude adjustment device 33 comprises a retractable foot 34 which is connected to the front central element 3 of the main body 2 and which is provided with a support surface 35 on a part of the user's body, and preferably on the chest of the latter in the case where the main body 2 is intended to be worn around the neck. Advantageously, the retractable foot 34 is designed to be completely retractable inside the front central element 3, pivotally folding in the direction of the latter (as in the embodiment illustrated in the figures), and/or be telescopic. In the case where the main body 2 is intended to be worn around the neck, manipulation of the retractable foot 34 thus advantageously makes it possible to cause the front central element 3 to describe a path going from the chest of the user (relative low position ) towards the nose of the user (high relative position), and vice versa, which makes it possible to best adapt the device 1 to the morphology of the user by adjusting the position of the distribution element air 15, and therefore from the air distribution outlet 16, as close as possible to the respiratory tract of the latter, or on the contrary by allowing him to move the air distribution outlet 16 away according to his needs, during the using the device 1.

Optionally, the device 1 can include a sensor for fine particles and/or volatile organic compounds, which detects the presence of fine particles and/or volatile organic compounds in the surrounding ambient air and measures the concentration thereof. Preferably, said sensor is then housed in the front central element 3. Advantageously, such a sensor is designed and configured to transmit to a computer or to a remote smart telephone, for example via a wireless data link, information relating to the presence and concentration of such fine particles and/or volatile organic compounds, so as to inform the user about the quality of the surrounding air.

Claims

Device (1) with assisted ventilation, individually portable, comprising an at least partially annular main body (2) intended to be worn around the neck or the head by a user and including:
- a central front element (3) which comprises at least one air inlet (10), a fan (11) and an air outlet (12),
- at least two holding branches (4) connected to said central front element (3) and configured to sufficiently surround the user's neck or head in order to ensure that the main body (2) is held around the neck or user head,
said apparatus (1) comprising an air distribution element (15) including an air distribution outlet (16) configured to blow a flow (F) of air generated by the ventilator (11) towards the respiratory tract of the user, said air distribution outlet (16) being designed and configured to be opposite and at a distance from said respiratory tract, in a centered manner along a vertical axis included in a median sagittal plane (Ps) of the user, said air distribution element (15) being assembled to said front central element (3), in a retractable or removable manner, to ensure airflow communication between the air outlet (12) of the front central element (3) with said air distribution outlet (16).
Apparatus (1) according to the preceding claim, which comprises assembly means (26A, 26B) of the air distribution element (15) to said front central element (3) which cooperate magnetically to hold the distribution element of air (15) assembled to the front central element (3) in a removable manner.
Apparatus (1) according to any preceding claim, wherein the air distribution member (15) comprises a shell (24) which carries said air distribution outlet (16) and which is transparent or translucent .
Apparatus (1) according to any preceding claim, wherein the main body (2) is intended to be worn around the neck, and wherein said air outlet (12) is carried by a top face (18) of the front center member (3).
Apparatus (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein said air distribution element (15) extends projecting from the front central element (3) over a maximum height (Hmax) comprised between 30 mm and 100 mm.
Apparatus (1) according to any preceding claim, wherein said air inlet (10) is carried by a front face (5) of the front central element (3).
Apparatus (1) according to any preceding claim, wherein the main body (2) is intended to be worn around the neck, and wherein said air inlet (10) is arranged at an altitude below an altitude respective of said air outlet (12).
Apparatus (1) according to any preceding claim, wherein said holding legs (4) are separate from each other, each of the holding legs (4) being connected to said front central element (3) by articulation means (30) to allow the main body (2) to move between a folded configuration of the holding branches (4) and a deployed configuration of the holding branches (4).
Apparatus (1) according to any preceding claim, wherein said main body (2) has a median sagittal plane (P2) which forms a plane of symmetry of said main body (2), and which is intended to be arranged coincident with the midsagittal plane (Ps) of the user.
Apparatus (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the air distribution element (15) has a median sagittal plane (P3) which forms a plane of symmetry of said air distribution element (15), which coincides with said mid-sagittal plane (P3) of the main body (2).
Apparatus (1) according to any preceding claim, which comprises an altitude adjustment device (33) for adjusting a positioning altitude of the front center member (3) relative to the user.
Apparatus (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein said altitude adjustment device (33) comprises a retractable foot (34) which is connected to the front central element (3) of the main body (2) and which is provided with a support surface (35) on a part of the body, and preferably on the chest, of the user.
Apparatus (1) according to any preceding claim, which constitutes a powered air filtration apparatus (1).