WO2024006089A1

WO2024006089A1 - Device for generating upwardly blowing air curtain

Info

Publication number: WO2024006089A1
Application number: PCT/US2023/025469
Authority: WO
Inventors: Ronald Blum; Anita BROACH
Original assignee: Air-Clenz Systems, LLC
Priority date: 2022-06-28
Filing date: 2023-06-15
Publication date: 2024-01-04

Abstract

A device for generating an upwardly blowing air curtain to protect against airborne pathogens and pollutants.

Description

DEVICE FOR GENERATING UPWARDLY BLOWING AIR CURTAIN

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application relies on the disclosures of and claims priority to and the benefit of the filing date of U.S. Application No. 18/088,218, filed December 23, 2022, which relies on the disclosures of and claims priority to and the benefit of the filing date of U.S. Application No. 17/857,007, filed July 3, 2022.

[0002] The present application further relies on the disclosures of and claims priority to and the benefit of the filing dates of:

[0003] U.S. Appl. No. 63/356,420, Multi-Seated Vehicle with Plurality of Air Curtains and Plurality of Exhaled Air Collectors, filed June 28, 2022;

[0004] U.S. Appl. No. 63/390,241, Indoor Space with Air Curtains, filed July 18, 2022;

[0005] U.S. Appl. No. 63/396,913, Enhanced Indoor Space with Air Curtains and Downward Airflow, filed August 10, 2022;

[0006] U.S. Appl. No. 63/399,153, Device and System for Capturing and Cleaning Exhaled and Room Air, filed August 18, 2022;

[0007] U.S. Appl. No. 63/405,740, Air-Collection and Cleaning Seat Back Module, filed September 12, 2022;

[0008] U.S. Appl. No. 63/410,600, Chair, Tray, Table-Top, or Blotter, for Capturing and Cleaning Exhaled Air, filed September 27, 2022;

[0009] U.S. Appl. No. 63/413,145, Exhaled Air Capture and Air Cleaning Desk, filed October 4, 2022;

[00010] U.S. Appl. No. 63/428,256, Vehicle, Chair, Tray, Table-Top, or Blotter, for Capturing and Cleaning Exhaled Air, filed November 28, 2022;

[00011] U.S. Appl. No. 63/436,830, Vehicle, Chair, Headrest, Tray, Table-Top, or Blotter, for Capturing and Cleaning Exhaled Air, filed January 3, 2023;

[00012] U.S. Appl. No. 63/444,234, Improved Seat Back Module, filed February 9, 2023;

[00013] U.S. Appl. No. 63/450,550, Mobile, Wearable Personal Air Curtain, filed March

7, 2023;

[00014] U.S. Appl. No. 63/453,140, Pole Mounted Air Capture and Cleaning Device, filed March 19, 2023; [00015] U.S. Appl. No. 63/457,186, Gas Trapping Material Advance, filed April 5, 2023;

[00016] U.S. Appl. No. 63/459,962, Upward Air-Curtains, Wearable, and Fixed, filed

April 17, 2023; and

[00017] U.S. Appl. No. 63/461,554, Upward Air-Curtains, Wearable, and Fixed, filed April 24, 2023.

[00018] The disclosures of all the above applications are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field of the Invention:

[0001 ] Given the history of the COVID pandemic in terms of the large number of deaths and the resistance of wearing masks, there is an unmet need to more quickly stop airborne pathogen float before it spreads throughout an indoor space or venue. There is also a need for means to separate in a transparent manner a contagious individual having an airborne infection from another non-infected individual within the indoor space or venue.

[00020] Accordingly, the present invention relates to the field of air cleaning/treating/purifying devices, such as devices that can be used to separate an individual’s exhaled air from other people in the same environment, including protecting the wearer of the device from contagious exhaled air of sick individuals near the person wearing the device, or for protecting healthy individuals from contagious exhaled air of a sick person wearing the device. Description of Related Art:

[00021] HVAC systems, while providing needed cleaned cooled or heated air, pull airborne pathogens across a room or indoor space to the nearest intake potentially infecting others in the room. This occurs as the HVAC system moves clean cooled or heated air into and out of a room or indoor venue. Thus, if a healthy individual is located within an indoor space among multiple other individuals when one or more of the other individuals are infected with an airborne infectious disease, there is a high degree of risk (before the air in the room is cleaned by the HEPA fdter of the HVAC system) that the healthy individual may breathe in certain of the airborne pathogens. To a slightly lesser extent, a traditional air purifier will also pull airborne pathogens along with the air flow as it is pulled towards the air purifier, also potentially infecting others. There is a pressing need for a maskless, wearable, mobile, energy efficient, individualized personal indoor air protection device, such as, by way of example, one that can separate and protect two or more individuals from each other’s exhaled air; such a needed device can be wearable and mobile, or fixed and stationary.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[00022] In embodiments, an objective of the current invention is to provide a device to clean, treat, purify indoor air, including exhaled air in the indoor air. Another aspect of the invention is to manipulate air, including exhaled air, that is breathed into an environment. In other embodiments, an objective of the present invention is to provide a device that moves indoor ambient air in such a way as to separate and protect two or more individuals in that indoor environment from each other’s exhaled air. Indoor ambient air can include air in the environment, exhaled air in the environment, uncleaned air in the environment, and uncleaned exhaled air in the environment, such as air that has not been recently filtered or otherwise cleaned/purified. Such a device, in embodiments, can be one or more of a mobile, wearable, lightweight, energy efficient, effective, and one that the public and professionals will wear. In still other embodiments, such a device can be used for outdoor environments.

[00023] Based upon the historical consumer response to the COVID pandemic, it is apparent that many, if not most, consumers do not want to wear a mask, or to wear a headmounted face shield. While professionals such as teachers and healthcare providers appear to be more inclined to wear a mask and/or a head-mounted face shield, it is apparent they would prefer to not do so.

[00024] As used herein an air curtain is defined as a curtain of air that is longer left to right than its thickness, front to back, as would be understood by one of skill in the art. In embodiments, by way of example, the left to right length is 2x or greater, 5x or greater, lOx or greater, 20x or greater, and so on, than its thickness front to back. In embodiments an air curtain is shaped by an air curtain outlet / outflow aperture(s). In embodiments the air flow of an air curtain is directed by an air curtain outlet / outflow aperture(s). In embodiments the velocity of air flow of an air curtain is increased by an air curtain outlet / outflow aperture(s). Such an air curtain outflow aperture can be formed in a covering of the fan (or a structure containing or including the fan), which consolidates the air flow from the fan through the one or more air curtain outflow aperture(s). In embodiments the air flow velocity of an air curtain is faster than the velocity of air from the fan generating the air curtain. In embodiments the velocity of the air curtain exiting the outflow air curtain aperture is 25% or greater than that of the air flow from the fan(s) generating the air curtain. Tn embodiments the velocity of the air curtain exiting the outflow air curtain aperture is 50% or greater than that of the air flow from the fan(s) generating the air curtain. In embodiments the velocity of the air curtain exiting the outflow air curtain aperture is 2x or greater than that of the air flow from the fan(s) generating the air curtain. In embodiments the air intake aperture(s) opening(s) to the fan is mostly or substantially parallel with the fan and located beneath or lower than the fan. In embodiments, the air curtain outflow aperture(s) opening(s) is/are located above the fan and mostly or substantially parallel with the fan. In embodiments, the aperture(s) is located on a surface of a nozzle(s) which is located higher than or above the fan(s).

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[00025] The accompanying drawings illustrate certain aspects of some of the embodiments of the present invention and should not be used to limit or define the invention. Together with the written description the drawings serve to explain certain principles of the invention.

[00026] FIG. 1 depicts aspects of embodiments according to the present invention as described herein.

[00027] FIG. 2 depicts aspects of embodiments according to the present invention as described herein.

[00028] FIG. 3 depicts aspects of embodiments according to the present invention as described herein.

[00029] FIG. 4 depicts aspects of embodiments according to the present invention as described herein.

[00030] FIG. 5 depicts aspects of embodiments according to the present invention as described herein.

[00031] FIG. 6 depicts aspects of embodiments according to the present invention as described herein.

[00032] FIG. 7 depicts aspects of embodiments according to the present invention as described herein.

[00033] FIG. 8 depicts aspects of embodiments according to the present invention as described herein. [00034] FIG. 9 depicts aspects of embodiments according to the present invention as described herein.

[00035] FIG. 10 depicts aspects of embodiments according to the present invention as described herein.

[00036] FIG. 11 depicts aspects of embodiments according to the present invention as described herein.

[00037] FIG. 12 depicts aspects of embodiments according to the present invention as described herein.

[00038] FIG. 13 depicts aspects of embodiments according to the present invention as described herein.

[00039] FIG. 14 depicts aspects of embodiments according to the present invention as described herein.

[00040] FIG. 15 depicts aspects of embodiments according to the present invention as described herein.

[00041] FIG. 16 depicts aspects of embodiments according to the present invention as described herein.

[00042] FIG. 17 depicts aspects of embodiments according to the present invention as described herein.

[00043] FIG. 18 depicts aspects of embodiments according to the present invention as described herein.

[00044] FIG. 19 depicts aspects of embodiments according to the present invention as described herein.

[00045] FIG. 20 depicts aspects of embodiments according to the present invention as described herein.

[00046] FIG. 21 depicts aspects of embodiments according to the present invention as described herein.

[00047] FIG. 22 depicts aspects of embodiments according to the present invention as described herein.

[00048] FIG. 23 depicts aspects of embodiments according to the present invention as described herein. [00049] FTG. 24 depicts aspects of embodiments according to the present invention as described herein.

[00050] FIG. 25 depicts aspects of embodiments according to the present invention as described herein.

[00051] FIG. 26 depicts aspects of embodiments according to the present invention as described herein.

[00052] FIG. 27 depicts aspects of embodiments according to the present invention as described herein.

[00053] FIG. 28 depicts aspects of embodiments according to the present invention as described herein.

[00054] FIG. 29 depicts aspects of embodiments according to the present invention as described herein.

[00055] FIG. 30 depicts aspects of embodiments according to the present invention as described herein.

[00056] FIG. 31 depicts aspects of embodiments according to the present invention as described herein.

[00057] FIG. 32 depicts aspects of embodiments according to the present invention as described herein.

[00058] FIG. 33 depicts aspects of embodiments according to the present invention as described herein.

[00059] FIG. 34 depicts aspects of embodiments according to the present invention as described herein.

[00060] FIG. 35 depicts aspects of embodiments according to the present invention as described herein.

[00061] FIG. 36 depicts aspects of embodiments according to the present invention as described herein.

[00062] FIG. 37 depicts aspects of embodiments according to the present invention as described herein.

[00063] FIG. 38 depicts aspects of embodiments according to the present invention as described herein. [00064] FIG. 39 depicts aspects of embodiments according to the present invention as described herein.

[00065] FIG. 40 depicts aspects of embodiments according to the present invention as described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention has been described with reference to particular embodiments having various features. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the practice of the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. One skilled in the art will recognize that these features may be used singularly or in any combination based on the requirements and specifications of a given application or design. Embodiments comprising various features may also consist of or consist essentially of those various features. Other embodiments of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the invention. The description of the invention provided is merely exemplary in nature and, thus, variations that do not depart from the essence of the invention are intended to be within the scope of the invention. [00066] All references cited in this specification are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.

[00067] In embodiments, the present invention comprises a device for creating an air curtain, wherein the device is wearable; wherein the device comprises one or more outflow air apertures; wherein the device comprises one or more means for generating an air flow/air current (including but not limited to one or more fans, or one or more mechanisms such as those employed by Dyson® air purifiers); wherein the one or more means for generating an air flow/current generate an upward air curtain upwards and through the one or more outflow air apertures; and wherein the air curtain is distance separated in front of the face of the wearer of the device. In aspects, the device creates an air curtain that circumvents or encircles part or all of the wearer’s head. In embodiments the device can encircle part or all the neck of the wearer, or rest on part of all of one or more shoulders of the wearer. In embodiments, the air curtain(s) can start at or above the chest of the wearer of the device. In embodiments the upward air curtain can start near the waist of the wearer. When the air curtain starts near the waist of the wearer, the device can be worn around the waist area of the wearer. In this embodiment the device can be attached to, supported by, or incorporated with, by way of example only, one or more of a belt, a strap, a suspender, or a waist support, worn by the wearer. In embodiments the air curtain is mostly or substantially distant separated from part of the wearer’s head. In embodiments the air curtain is distant separated from the wearer’s hair. In embodiments, the air curtain is located in front of and mostly or substantially distant separated from the wearer’s face.

[00068] In another embodiment, the wearable upward air curtain device (whether waist worn, chest worn, shoulder worn, or worn elsewhere on the wearer’s body) is utilized in combination with a wearable mask or respirator. In this embodiment, the mask or respirator and the upward wearable air curtain are worn by a wearer in combination as a system, by way of example. The mask can be that of, by way of example only, an N95 and/or a KN95 mask. The combination of wearing the mask or respirator and the wearable upward air curtain device is safe and effective for healthcare workers, the military, industrial workers, and others, when working with or around toxic or deadly airborne particles, such as by way of example only, Marburg virus, Ebola virus, Hantaviruses, Japanese encephalitis virus, radioactive dust particles, fungus contaminated dust particles, COVID, etc.

[00069] As used herein, an air curtain outflow aperture is the same as an air curtain outlet aperture. An air curtain can be formed by one or more outflow air curtain apertures formed in the covering of the fan portion of the device (or in a top portion of a structure containing the one or more fans). Some embodiments comprise a plurality of fans located mostly adjacent to one another horizontally, in which case a continuous air curtain is formed at the outflow aperture(s) and continues in front of the face of the wearer. In other embodiments there are two distance separated portions of device, each containing one or more fans having covers (or one or more containing structures) that comprise outflow air curtain apertures. In these embodiments two distance separated upward air curtains can first be formed, which then intersect to comprise one continuous air curtain in front of the face of the wearer.

[00070] In embodiments which provide an upward air curtain comprising cleaned air, air intake opening(s) and an air filter or air filters are utilized along with one or more fans, the fan coverings or the structure(s) containing the fans and/or the filters, and the outflow air curtain aperture(s). In other embodiments that provide an ambient non-cleaned upward air curtain, only the fan(s), fan covering(s) (or structure(s) containing the fan(s)) along with the outflow air curtain aperture(s) found in the fan covering (or fan containing structure) generate the upward air curtain. In embodiments the air intake opening(s) channeling air into the fan is/are located beneath the fan, such as when the air curtain device provides an air curtain comprised of ambient air. In embodiments, the air intake opening(s) to the fan is mostly or substantially parallel with the fan and located beneath or lower than the fan. In embodiments the air curtain outflow aperture(s) opening(s) is/are located above the fan and mostly or substantially parallel with the fan. One purpose of the invention having the air flow intake aperture(s) located below the fan, given that the fan’s outflow aperture(s) are above the fan, is to allow for the fan to have enhanced efficiency of air flow. Another is so that the fan does not pull contaminated exhaled air in the form of a cough or sneeze (by way of example) from someone located in front of the wearer of the device, and then blow that contaminated air upwards in front of the face of the wearer. This can be important when the upward air curtain is comprised of ambient room air as opposed to cleaned air.

[00071] In embodiments the air curtain is distant separated from the wearer’s face. All or a portion of the upward air curtain in front of the face of the wearer can be a combination of multiple air curtains that start out separated from one another. In embodiments, the air curtain device comprises a plurality of outflow air apertures, wherein the plurality of outflow air apertures circumvents most of the face of the wearer, and wherein the outflow air apertures generate a continuous upward air curtain in front of most of the face of the wearer of the device. When using the term continuous upward air curtain, it means, in aspects, that the air curtain is not separated into more than one air curtains but is rather of a continuous nature. In embodiments multiple air curtains can intersect in front of the face of the wearer forming a continuous upward air curtain. In other embodiments the continuous upward air curtain is formed that way from the start of the air curtain and remains continuous and upward in front of the face of the wearer.

[00072] In embodiments the air curtain device comprises a plurality of outflow air apertures that circumvent most of the head of the wearer and wherein the outflow air apertures generate a continuous upward air curtain around the neck and/or head of the wearer. In embodiments the air curtain device comprises a plurality of outflow air apertures, wherein the plurality of outflow air apertures circumvents most of the neck of the wearer and wherein the outflow air apertures generate a continuous upward air curtain around the neck and/or head of the wearer. In still other embodiments, the air curtain device causes an upwardly flowing air curtain that circumvents part or all of a wearer’s head and/or neck, and wherein a switch (or similar mechanism) can cause the air curtain to be limited to either providing an air curtain in front of the face of the wearer, or expanding the air curtain to be around the neck and/or head of the wearer.

[00073] In aspects, the device, when being worn, encircles most of the neck of the wearer. In aspects, the device has an opening in front of the neck of the wearer allowing for the device to be positioned around the sides and the back of the wearer’s neck. In aspects, the device when worn encircles the front of the head or neck of the wearer. In aspects, the device has an opening behind the head or neck of the wearer allowing for the device to be affixed around the wearer’s head or neck. The opening can be formed by two ends of the device. The opening, whether in front of the head or neck, on the side of the head or neck, or behind the head or neck, can be attached by any mechanical attachment means (such as, but not limited to hook and loop fasteners, magnets, latches, hooks, snaps, buckles, that can be attached and unattached. The opening of the device, such as when a first portion and second portion, when not attached or connected, can be expanded for wear or removal by way of the wearer pulling the two ends apart. In aspects, one end of the device can comprise a ferromagnetic material and the other end a magnet. In aspects, one end of the device can comprise a magnet and the other end another attracting magnet.

[00074] In embodiments, a fan or fans on the device can pull air through (or push air through) one or more filters or other mechanisms (or compartments including other mechanisms) for cleaning/treating/purifying air, such as those described herein, including but not limited to mechanisms such as microbicidal light, microbiocidal agent(s), microbiocidal energy, microbiocidal material(s), and/or microbiocidal chemical(s). In an embodiment, the fan(s) are located such that air flow into the device is from below the device and the fan or fans’ opening(s) are within 45 degrees of a horizontal plane. In another embodiment, the fan(s) are located such that air flow into the device is from the side of the device and the fan or fans’ openings are within 45 degrees of a vertical plane. In still another embodiment, the fan(s) are located such that air flow into the device is from the front of the device and the fan or fans’ opening are within 45 degrees of a vertical plane. The formed air curtain by the device can be comprised of ambient room air, such as untreated room air or room air that has not been treated within the previous 20 seconds, by way of example. The formed air curtain by the device can be comprised of cleaned air. Such an upward cleaned air curtain device can comprise an air filter. The filter can be that of a HEPA filter. The filter can be that of an activated Carbon Filter. The device can comprise an air purification chamber. The air purification chamber can comprise one or more of a microbicidal heat element, microbicidal chemical agent, microbicidal material agent, microbicidal ultrasonic element, microbicidal filter, microbicidal light, microbicidal gas, filter, HEPA filter, or activated carbon filter. In embodiments, one or more fan pulls air through or pushes air though the air purification chamber. Thus, a means for cleaning air can include, but is not limited to: a HEPA filter, a carbon filter, an air purification chamber, a microbicidal heat element, a microbicidal chemical agent, a microbicidal material agent, a microbicidal ultrasonic element, a microbicidal filter, microbicidal light, microbicidal gas, activated carbon filter, or other filter. Other means for cleaning air would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[00075] The air curtain can be formed from one or more circular or oval air outflow apertures. The air curtain can be formed from one or more straight slit-like air outflow apertures. The air curtain can be formed from one or more curved slit-like air outflow apertures. The air curtain can be formed from one or more polygonal-shaped air outflow apertures. The air curtain can be formed from one or more curved-shaped (e.g., s-shaped or c-shaped) air outflow apertures. The device can comprise a plurality of air curtains formed from a plurality of circular or oval air outflow apertures, one or a plurality of slit-like air outflow apertures, a plurality of polygonal-shaped apertures, and/or a plurality of curved-shaped apertures. In embodiments the upward air curtain is a continuous air curtain from its formation and flows in front of most of the wearer’s face. In embodiments, the upward air curtain is a continuous air curtain, but is the result of two or more separated upward air curtains that intersect forming a continuous air curtain in front of, and distance separated from, the face of the wearer. In embodiments the air curtain comprises an opening in front of the face of the wearer. In embodiments, one air curtain can blow on part of the wearer’s face or head, while another air curtain can blow in front of part of the wearer's face or head. In embodiments, air can blow on part of the wearer’s neck and head, while an upward air curtain can blow in front of part of the wearer’s face or head. In still other embodiments, an air curtain can blow in front of the wearer’s face or head and be distance separated from the wearer’s face and head. In still other embodiments, an air curtain that is formed in front of the face of the wearer can curve on the sides of the face of the wearer to partially, substantially, mostly, or fully, blow around part or all of the side of the head or face of the wearer. [00076] And in other embodiments three separate air curtains can blow such that one is in front of the face of the wearer, one on the right side of the face and one on the left side of the face. In embodiments when multiple air curtains are utilized, they can intersect and form a continuous air curtain in front of the face of the wearer. However, in other embodiments, the multiple air curtains can remain separated. In embodiments, the air curtain or air curtains are distance separated from the face or head of the wearer. In embodiments, an air curtain can blow on part of the wearer’s face or head, while another air curtain can blow in front of part of the wearer’s face or head. In still other embodiments, an air curtain can blow in front of the wearer’s face or head. The air curtain can be directed to blow upward and angled such that it is farther away from the forehead of the wearer than the chin of the wearer.

[00077] In aspects, when continuous is used in describing the air curtain herein, a series or plurality of separated air outflow apertures form an air curtain that can produce a continuous air curtain. In aspects, when continuous is used in describing the air curtain herein, a single air outflow aperture forms an air curtain that can produce a continuous air curtain. For example, a single slit-like outflow air aperture can produce a continuous air curtain. In other aspects, multiple properly aligned slit-like outflow air apertures can also produce a continuous air curtain. A multiple properly aligned slit-like out flow apertures configuration can generate multiple first separated air curtains that combine into one continuous air curtain. Also, in other embodiments, series of rows or columns of round- or oval-shaped separated outflow apertures can form a plurality of air curtains. A series of rows or columns of slit-like outflow air apertures can form a plurality of air curtains. Those shapes are examples only, as other shapes are contemplated as described herein.

[00078] In embodiments, the upward air curtain outflow aperture(s) can be formed in a top cover of a fan housing or the overall device. The upward air curtain outflow aperture(s) can be distance separated from the fan(s), such as, by way of example, preferably providing a distance of 0.12 inches or more between the upward air curtain outflow aperture(s) and the fan(s). The upward air curtain outflow aperture(s) can be distance separated from the fan(s) providing a distance of 0.25 inches or more between the upward air curtain outflow aperture(s) and the fan(s). The upward air curtain outflow aperture(s) can be distance separated from the fan(s) providing a distance of 0.38 inches or more between the upward air curtain outflow aperture(s) and the fan(s). The upward air curtain outflow aperture(s) can be distance separated from the fan(s) providing a distance of 0.50 inches or more between the upward air curtain outflow aperture(s) and the fan(s). The aperture(s) can be distance separated from the fan(s) providing a distance of 0.25 inches or more between the upward air curtain outflow aperture(s) and the fan(s). The aperture(s) can be distance separated from the fan(s) providing a distance of 0.38 inches or more between the upward air curtain outflow aperture(s) and the fan(s). The aperture(s) can be distance separated from the fan(s) providing a distance of 0.50 inches or more between the upward air curtain outflow aperture(s) and the fan(s).

[00079] The fan(s) can be designed for outflow air resistance. The fan(s) can be designed for the outflow of air resistance from a nozzle. The fan(s) can be designed for the outflow air resistance from an aperture. The fan(s) can be designed for the outflow air resistance from fan housing cover(s). In embodiments, the fan(s) pulls air in from its bottom and moves air out from the other side of the fan(s). In embodiments, the fan(s) comprises a CFM of 20 or more prior to the air flow measured through the aperture(s). In embodiments, the fan(s) comprises a CFM of 30 or more prior to the air flow measured through the aperture(s). In embodiments, an air flow CFM of 10 or more can be measured just past the outflow aperture(s). In embodiments, an air flow CFM of 15 or more can be measured when the air flow is measured just past the outflow aperture(s). In embodiments, an air flow CFM of 20 or more can be measured when the air flow is measured just past the outflow aperture(s).

[00080] In embodiments, the air flow velocity of the upward air curtain when measured 7 inches or more away from the outflow aperture(s) has a velocity of 12 feet I second or more. In embodiments the air flow velocity of the upward air curtain when measured 7 inches or more away from the outflow aperture(s) has a velocity of 15 feet / second or more. In embodiments the air flow velocity of the upward air curtain when measured 9 inches or more away from the outflow aperture(s) has a velocity of 12 feet / second or more. In embodiments the air flow velocity of the upward air curtain when measured 9 inches or more away from the outflow aperture(s) has a velocity of 15 feet / second or more. Embodiments of the upward air curtain device can be capable of providing an upward air curtain velocity of 10 feet / second or more in front of the mouth of the wearer of the device. Embodiments of the upward air curtain device can be capable of providing an upward air curtain velocity of 15 feet / second or more in front of the mouth of the wearer of the device. Embodiments of the upward air curtain device can be capable of providing an upward air curtain velocity of 20 feet / second or more in front of the mouth of the wearer of the device.

[00081] In embodiments the front to back width of the upward air curtain slit outflow aperture can be 0.2 inches or more. In other embodiments the front to back width of the upward air curtain slit outflow aperture can be 0.4 inches or more. In still other embodiments the width of the upward air curtain slit outflow aperture can be 0.5 inches or more. The upward air curtain outflow aperture(s) can shape the upward air curtain. The upward air curtain outflow aperture(s) can direct the upward air curtain. For clarity, in embodiments, the width of the slit is the smaller dimension when related to the length of the slit. In aspects, this allows the wearer to ensure the upward air curtain is not striking the wearer’s face.

[0001] In embodiments, a mechanical adjustment mechanism, such as by way of example only, a knob, a lever, or a handle, can be used to adjust the angle of the air flow of the air curtain. The angle of the air flow of the air curtain can be set to a desired location or a desired angle by the wearer of the device. One of skill in the art would understand additional mechanisms that could be used to adjust the angle of the air curtain by adjusting the means of generating the air flow/current or the outflow air apertures.

[0002] The air curtain can block, blow, or deflect away from the face of the wearer of the device ambient room air or exhaled air from another person in the same environment. Exhaled air from the wearer or another person in the same environment can be from, by way of example, a breath, a cough, or a sneeze. The air curtain can also block, blow, or deflect away toxic air or gases from the face of the wearer of the device; thus, protecting the wearer.

[0003] In aspects, the device can comprise a neck support and/or cushion. The device can comprise a back of a neck support and/or cushion. The device can comprise a back and a side of a neck support and/or cushion. The device can be supported by one or both of the wearer’s shoulders.

[0004] The upward air curtain can be comprised of a plurality of air flow streams. The upward air curtain can be comprised of cleaned air. The upward air curtain can be comprised of cleaned air which originally was ambient indoor air, including uncleaned exhaled air in the ambient indoor air. The upward air curtain can be comprised of non-cleaned ambient room air.

[0005] The device can comprise one or more air purification chambers. The device can comprise one or more fans. The device can comprise one or more air filters. The device can comprise a neck cushion or neck support The device can be partially or completely inflatable. The device can be partially or fully inflatable by way of the fan or fans of the device. The device can comprise hands free wireless communication. The device can comprise wireless communication. The device can be powered by a rechargeable battery. The device can be powered by alternating current (“AC”) power. The device can be powered by a universal serial bus (“USB”) port, the power coming from another electrical device or a power grid. The device can comprise a plurality of air curtain outflow apertures. The device can comprise a fan that pulls air through a fdter. The device can comprise a fan that pushes air through a fdter. The device can generate a single air curtain. The device can generate multiple air curtains. Multiple air curtains can be combined to create a continuous air curtain. Multiple air curtains can be comprised of two or more rows or columns of multiple air curtains. Multiple upward air curtains can be generated by multiple separated fan units. The device can comprise a cooling component. The device can provide cooled air. The one or more air curtain can be cooled air, the air cooled by the device. Embodiments of the device can provide cleaned air.

[0006] In embodiments of the device, the one or more fans can be flipped up when turned on and/or flipped down when turned off. In embodiments, one or more fans can be adjustable relative to the face of the wearer. The one or more fans can be attached to or connected to the communication platform described herein by way of a hinge. In aspects, a ball-like hinge joint can permit a high degree of freedom of adjustment. In aspects, a ball-and-socket joint (or spheroid joint) is a type of synovial joint in which the ball-shaped surface of one rounded bone fits into the cup-like depression of another bone. Hinges described herein may or may not employ such a ball-and-socket joint, In aspects, a hinge, ball-and-socket joint, or other pivotable member, permits the one or more fans that generates the air flow/current that create the air curtain to be capable of motion around an indefinite number of axes, which have one common center. The one or more fans can be attached to or connected to the wireless communication platform by a conventional hinge. In embodiments, the one or more fans are located in a portion or location of the overall device, such as the one or more fans portion or location of the device. [0007] In embodiments, the outflow air apertures can be used to direct the air curtain, and the outflow air apertures can be adjusted relative to the face of the wearer, thereby permitting for the air curtain to be adjusted to blow in front of and be distance separated from the face of the wearer. In embodiments, the portion of the device that comprises the outflow apertures (that, in aspects, shape the air curtain) can be adjustable relative to the face of the wearer, thereby permitting for the air curtain to be adjusted to blow in front of and be distance separated from the face of the wearer.

[0008] In embodiments, the device can provide an air curtain of cleaned and cooled air. The device can comprise a Peltier cooler. The device can comprise a phase change material. The device can clean indoor air. The device can clean outdoor air. The device can clean ambient air. The device can eliminate some or all odors from indoor or outdoor air. The device can comprise foam. The device can comprise urethane. The device can comprise a flexible plastic. The device can comprise a rigid or semi-rigid plastic. The device can comprise a memory plastic. The device can comprise a malleable material.

[0009] The device can comprise a first portion of which can be separated from a second portion and wherein the two portions can be attached by way of a Velcro like material. The device can comprise a first portion of which can be separated from a second portion and wherein the two portions can be attached by way of a hook and loop material. The device can comprise a first portion that can be separated from a second portion and wherein the two portions can be attached by way of a first magnet and attracting second magnet. The device can comprise a first portion which can be separated from a second portion and wherein the two portions can be attached by way magnetic material and or a ferromagnetic material. The device can comprise a first portion which can be separated from a second portion and wherein the two portions can be attached magnetically. The device can have a first portion and a second portion that can be separated when putting around the wearer’s neck or head and wherein the two portions are attached in front of the wearer’s neck or head. The device can have a first portion and a second portion that can be separated when putting around the wearer’s neck or head and wherein the two portions are attached behind the wearer’s neck or head. The device’s air curtain or air curtains can circumvent 1/3 of the wearer’s head. The device’s air curtain or air curtains can circumvent 1/2 of the wearer’s head. The device’s air curtain or air curtains can circumvent 2/3 of the wearer’s head. The device’s air curtain or air curtains can circumvent % of the wearer’s head. The device’s air curtain or air curtains can circumvent all the wearer’s head. The device can be mobile. The device can be portable. The device can be wearable. The device can be in the form of a neck support cushion. The device can be in the form of a partial or full collar. The device can be in the form of a necklace with a pendant. The device can be in the form of a necklace. The device can be in the form of a necklace with a pendant. The device can be in the form of a partial oval that rests on the shoulders of the wearer. The device can be worn partially under the clothing of the wearer.

[00010] In embodiments, two separated upward air curtains when first formed can later intersect forming a combined air curtain in front of the face of the wearer. In certain embodiments one continuous upward air curtain can circumvent the front of the face of the wearer. The device can be adjustable to fit. The air curtain can be adjustable in its angle relative to the head and / or face of the wearer. The device can comprise multiple fans. The fans can be static pressure fans.

[00011] The device can comprise a vibration. The device can comprise a vibrator. The device can comprise a massage like effect. The vibrator can be for an alarm, or a signaling device to get the wearer’s attention. The device comprises one or more audio speakers. The device can comprise a Peltier cooler. The device can comprise a phase change material. The device can comprise a rheostat.

[00012] The device can comprise a means to control or regulate the velocity of one or more air curtains. The device can comprise a means to control or regulate the angle of outward air flow of one or more air curtains. The device’s air curtain(s) is/are designed to block or deflect dirty air that floats towards the wearer of the device in such a way that most, if not all, the dirty air (one or more of infectious, polluted, or with allergens) is not inhaled by the wearer of the air curtain device. The device’s air curtain(s) is/are further designed to block or deflect certain of the exhaled air of the wearer. The device is intended to reduce the risk of its wearer catching / contracting an airborne disease. The device is intended to reduce the risk of its wearer developing an airborne induced allergy or allergic reaction. The device can be worn indoors. The device can be worn outdoors. In embodiments, the air upward curtain can be comprised of air that is cleaned within an air purification chamber integrated with the device. In other embodiments the upward air curtain can be comprised of ambient room air that is uncleaned.

[00013] In embodiments, the device can further comprise a communication platform. The communication platform can be hands free. The communication platform can utilize voice recognition software. The communication platform can utilize voice command software. The communication platform can utilize cloud based conversational software. The communication platform can utilize Artificial Intelligence. The communication platform and or the air curtain device can comprise one or more of; transceiver, receiver, transmitter, speaker, microphone, Bluetooth chip, microchips, controller, Wi-Fi, telecoil, enabling electronics, rechargeable battery(s), wireless charging coil, vibrator, sound alarm, tilt switch, accelerometer, USB port, light, switch. The communication platform can be part of the air curtain device. The communication platform can be handsfree.

[00014] The fan(s) that provides the upward air curtain can have an air flow of 10 CFM or greater. The fan(s) that provides the upward air curtain can have an air flow of 20 CFM or greater. The velocity of the upward air curtain can be influenced by the diameter of the outflow aperture(s). The diameter or width of the upward outflow apertures can be 0.1 inch or greater. The diameter or width of the upward outflow aperture can be 0.2 inches or greater. The diameter or width of the upward outflow aperture can be 0.3 inches or greater. The diameter or width of the upward outflow aperture can be 0.4 inches or greater. The diameter or width of the upward outflow aperture can be 0.5 inches or less. The outflow aperture(s) can be round in shape. The outflow aperture(s) can be oval in shape. The outflow aperture(s) can be in the form of an elongated slit(s). The outflow aperture(s) can be in the form of a curved elongated slit(s). There can be one or more rows of apertures that increase the thickness of the air curtain. The upward air curtain velocity can be 10 feet per second or greater. The upward air curtain velocity can be 15 feet per second or greater. The upward air curtain velocity can be 20 feet per second or greater. Having the proper velocity of the upward air curtain can be important for blocking or deflecting exhaled air of the wearer in the form of a breath, cough, or sneeze, from impacting a non-wearer. Having the proper velocity of the upward air curtain can be important for blocking or deflecting exhaled air of the non-wearer in the form of a breath, a cough, or a sneeze, from impacting a wearer. In other words, in embodiments, the velocity of the upward air curtain can be important for sufficiently blocking or deflecting exhaled air, a cough, or a sneeze, from a non- wearer so that the wearer is not contaminated. In embodiments, the velocity of the upward air curtain can be important for sufficiently blocking or deflecting exhaled air, a cough, or a sneeze, from a wearer so that a non-wearer is not contaminated.

[00015] By adjusting the nasal fan side tilt angle of the right fan and the left downward, it is possible to cause the separate air curtains to intersect in front of all or part of the face of the wearer. By adjusting the front side tilt angle of the fans downward it is possible to move the air curtain away from the face of the wearer. In a preferred embodiment the air curtain is located 2 inches or more away from the face of the wearer. Tn a preferred embodiment the air curtain is located 4 inches or more away from the face of the wearer. In a preferred embodiment the air curtain is located 6 inches or more away from the face of the wearer.

[00016] The device can comprise an air gap or space between the top of the fan (meaning the surface of the fan closest to the outflow air curtain aperture(s)) and one or more outflow air curtain aperture(s). In aspects, the dimension of the air gap or air space can be 0.12 inches or more. In aspects, the dimension of the air gap or air space can be 0.25 inches or more. In aspects, the dimension of the air gap or air space can be 0.50 inches or more. This air gap or air space can provide air flow with less resistance, thus increasing the air flow velocity through the air curtain aperture(s).

[00017] For embodiments having two separate fans generating two separate air curtains that intersect in front of the face of the wearer the angle of each fan with respect to the horizontal can be tilted downward 10 degrees or greater. For embodiments having two separate fans generating two separate air curtains that intersect in front of the face of the wearer the angle of each fan with respect to the horizontal can be tilted downward 15 degrees or greater. For embodiments having multiple fans generating air flow that intersect in front of the face of the wearer forming an air curtain the angle of each fan with respect to the horizontal can be tilted downward 15 degrees or greater. Atilt of 10 degrees or more or 15 degrees of more downward with respect to the horizontal of the fan occurs by having the inward side of fan that is closest to the midline of the wearer’s body being tilted downward. See the illustration for clarity. For embodiments having two separate fans generating two separate air curtains that intersect in front of the face of the wearer, or that of one mostly continuous air curtain that circumvents the face of the wearer, the angle of the air curtain with respect to the wearer’s face is tilted forward away from the wearer’s forehead. For clarity, in aspects, the portion of the air curtain in front of the wearer’s forehead is farther from the wearer’s forehead than from the wearer’s chin. For embodiments having two separate fans generating two separate air curtains that intersect in front of the face of the wearer, or that of one mostly continuous air curtain that circumvents the face of the wearer, the angle of the air curtain with respect to the wearer’s face is tilted 10 degrees or more away from the vertical, with respect to the wearer’s face. For embodiments having two separate fans generating two separate air curtains that intersect in front of the face of the wearer, or that of one mostly continuous air curtain that circumvents the part or all face of the wearer, the angle of the air curtain with respect to the wearer’s face is tilted 15 degrees or more from the vertical, with respect to the wearer’s face. For embodiments having two separate fans generating two separate air curtains that intersect in front of the face of the wearer, or that of one mostly continuous air curtain that circumvents part or all the face of the wearer, the angle of the air curtain with respect to the wearer’s face is tilted 20 degrees or more from the vertical, with respect to the wearer’s face. See the illustration for clarity.

[00018] In embodiments, an air curtain diversion member or plate is provided adjacent to or close to the fan cover or nozzle comprising one or more air curtain outlet apertures so to divert the air curtain away from the wearer’s face. The fan(s) can be static pressure fan(s). An air diversion member or plate can be adjustable so that the wearer can adjust the air curtain or air curtains away from the face of the wearer. In certain embodiments the portion comprising the outflow aperture is tilted 10 degrees or more with respect to the horizontal and 10 degrees or more with respect to the vertical. In embodiments, the portion comprising the outflow aperture is tilted 15 degrees or more with respect to the horizontal and 15 degrees or more with respect to the vertical. In certain embodiments one or both fans is tilted 15 degrees or more nasally downward with respect to the horizontal and 20 degrees or more downward away from the vertical with respect to the wearer’s face or forehead.

[00019] The upward air curtain can protect the wearer by blocking or deflecting on coming exhaled air from a third party. The exhaled air can be that of a breath, cough, sneeze, talk, song. The upward air curtain can protect the third party from the wearer by blocking or deflecting on coming exhaled air from the wearer. The exhaled air can be that of a breath, cough, sneeze, talk, song. The device can be part of an upper garment worn by the wearer. The device can be attached to an upper garment worn by the wearer. The device can be attached, by way of example only, by one of; a button receiving aperture, mechanical clamp, hook, and eyelet means to a shirt or clothing top worn by the wearer. The device can comprise an article of clothing, be integrated into an article of clothing, can be attached to an article of clothing.

[00020] The device can provide an upward air curtain that encircles part or all the face of the wearer. In certain embodiments a tilt switch is provided. The tilt switch can turn off the fans when the wearer is bending forward over 30 degrees or greater relative to the vertical and turn the fan back on when the wearer straightens back up and is standing within 25 degrees of the vertical The tilt switch can turn off the fans when the wearer is bending forward over 45 degrees or greater relative to the vertical and turn the fans back on when the wearer straightens back up and is standing within 40 degrees of the vertical.

[00021] In other embodiments the upward air curtain device is fixed in position. By this it means that the upward air curtain is fixed in a stationary position and is not mobile. In certain other embodiments the upward air curtain device is attached to, by way of example only, the front or top of a desk, table, counter. In another embodiment the upward air curtain device is built into, by way of example only, the desk, table, counter. When the upward air curtain device is built in the outflow air curtain aperture can be in the top of the desk, table, counter.

[00022] When the upward air curtain device is attached to the outer edge or side of a desk, table, or counter, by way of example, the air curtain outflow aperture can be flush with the top of the desk, table, or counter. In embodiments, the upward air curtain outflow aperture is inset from a protective bar, lip, extension, or structure, of the upward air curtain device, or inset from the outer front edge of the upward air curtain device, so as to be, in aspects, around four inches or more from the protective outer bar, lip, extension, structure, or outer front edge. In embodiments, the upward air curtain outflow aperture is inset from a protective bar, extension, lip, or structure, of the upward air curtain device, or inset from the outer front edge of the upward air curtain device so as to be 6 inches or more from the protective outer bar, extension, lip, structure, or outer front edge. In embodiments, the upward air curtain outflow aperture is inset from a protective bar, extension, lip, or structure, of the upward air curtain device, or the outer front edge of the upward air curtain device, so as to be 8 inches or more from the protective outer bar, extension, lip, structure, or outer front edge. In aspects, the reason for this inset is to prevent the hand or other body part of someone sitting or standing next to the desk, table, or counter from covering the air curtain outflow aperture with their hand.

[00023] In other embodiments, the upward air curtain device can be fixed in a stationary position and built into, by way of example only, the desk, table, or counter. When the upward air curtain device is built in, the outflow air curtain aperture can be in the top of the desk, table, or counter. When the upward air curtain device is built in or integrated into the top of a desk, table, or counter, the air curtain outflow aperture can be flush or substantially flush with the top of the desk, table, or counter. In embodiments, the upward air curtain outflow aperture is inset so as to be four (4) inches or more from the edge (or top) of the desktop, tabletop, or countertop. In embodiments, the upward air curtain outflow aperture is inset so as to be six (6) inches or more from the edge (or top) of the desktop, tabletop, or countertop. Tn embodiments, the upward air curtain outflow aperture is inset so as to be eight (8) inches or more from the edge (or top) of the desktop, tabletop, or countertop. In aspects, the reason for this inset is to prevent a hand, body part, or other object, from covering the air curtain outflow aperture.

[00024] In embodiments that are fixed and stationary comprising an attached upward air curtain device or a built in or integrated air curtain device, a motion detector can be located on one end (or both ends) of the device to turn on the device when someone moves in front of the device and turn off the device when someone exits being in front of the device. In embodiments comprising an attached upward air curtain device or a built in or integrated air curtain device, a motion detector can be located such as to turn on the device when someone moves in front of the device and turn off the device when someone exits being in front of the device. Such a motion detector can be, by way of example only, a photoelectric eye, a photoelectric sensor, an ultrasonic motion detector, and/or an ultrasonic motion sensor infrared sensor. In embodiments the air outflow aperture that forms the upward air curtain can be lined with LED lights to indicate a line to which one should not reach over, bend over, cross over or put their hands over. [00025] In embodiments the upward air curtain device can clean air and provide an upward air curtain with cleaned air. In other embodiments the air is not cleaned, and the upward air curtain comprises ambient room air. In embodiments, the upward air curtain device can pull air through one or more air intakes located at or in the bottom of the device. The upward air curtain can pull air in from one or more side(s) of the device. In embodiments, the upward air curtain device can pull air in from or through one or more air intakes located at or in the bottom and/or one or more air intakes located in the side(s) of the device. In embodiments providing an upward air curtain of cleaned air, the air can proceed through an air intake(s), a fan(s), through an air purification chamber(s) or air filter(s) that is/are a component of the device, and then out through an outflow air curtain aperture in the form of an upward “cleaned” air curtain. An air purification chamber can employ any and all known antimicrobial means to destroy pathogens, by way of example only, antimicrobial heat, antimicrobial ultrasound, antimicrobial chemical, antimicrobial material, plasma. Such an air purification chamber can employ one or more filters, by way of example only, prefilter, filter, activated carbon, HEPA, or antiviral filter. In embodiments providing an upward air curtain of ambient non-cleaned air, ambient air can proceed through an air intake, to the fan, and then out through an air curtain outflow aperture in the form of an upward ambient (non-cleaned) air curtain.

[00026] The air can proceed directly through a fan to an air curtain outflow aperture. In embodiments one or more air returns for an HVAC system can be located above the fixed upward air curtain device and can be, by way of example only, fixed and in the ceiling. In embodiments an air purifier can be located above the fixed upward air curtain device and can be in the ceiling. The air flow velocity of the fixed upward air curtain when measured at the outflow air curtain aperture can be 20 feet per second or greater. The air flow velocity of the fixed upward air curtain when measured at the outflow air curtain aperture can be 25 feet per second or greater. The air flow velocity of the fixed upward air curtain when measured at the outflow air curtain aperture can be 30 feet per second or greater. The air flow velocity of the fixed upward air curtain measured at a distance of 6 or more inches from the air outflow aperture can be 10 feet per second or greater. The air flow velocity of the fixed upward air curtain measured at a distance of 6 or more inches from the air outflow aperture can be 15 feet per second or greater. The air flow velocity of the fixed upward air curtain measured at a distance of 6 or more inches from the air outflow aperture can be 20 feet per second or greater. The air flow velocity of the upward air curtain when measured in front of the wearer’s mouth can be 10 feet per second or greater. The air flow velocity of the upward air curtain when measured in front of the wearer’s mouth can be 15 feet per second or greater. The air flow velocity of the upward air curtain when measured in front of the wearer’s mouth can be 20 feet per second or greater. In embodiments, the upward air curtain velocity of air flow leaving the air curtain outlet aperture is greater than the velocity of air flow leaving the fan itself. The upward air curtain can be at a 90-degree angle to the desktop, tabletop, or countertop. The upward air curtain can be at a 10 degree or greater angle outward from a perpendicular imaginary line to the desktop, tabletop, or countertop. The upward air curtain can be at a 10 degree or greater angle outward from a perpendicular imaginary line to the desktop, tabletop, or countertop. The upward air curtain can be at a 30 degree or greater angle outward from a perpendicular imaginary line to the desktop, tabletop, or countertop.

[00027] The upward air curtains (whether wearable and mobile, or fixed) as taught herein can be utilized by a plurality of separated individuals whether standing, seated, moving around. The venue or space can be that of any indoor venue or space including that of a vehicle of all types. The plurality of upward air curtains can be utilized to transparently, one or more; block, divert, deflect, separate the exhaled air of plurality of individuals within a common venue or space from each other’s exhaled air. The plurality of upward air curtains can separate the faces of the plurality of individuals. In a system embodiment a plurality of individuals can wear a device that comprises two air curtains that intersect in front of the face of a plurality of individuals. In certain other system embodiment, a plurality of individuals can wear a device that comprises one air curtain that flows in front, and mostly separated from the faces, of a plurality of individuals. The plurality of upward air curtains can operate as a system. The plurality of upward air curtains can be mobile. The plurality of upward air curtains can operate as a system. The plurality of upward air curtains can be wearable. The plurality of upward air curtains can start at or above the chest of the wearer. In aspects, the plurality of upward air curtains can start at or above the waist of a wearer. The plurality of upward air curtains can operate as a system. The plurality of upward air curtains can be fixed in a stationary position. The system can comprise a plurality of upward air curtain devices that produce the plurality of upward air curtains. Fixed upward air curtains can be used, by way of example only, in movie theaters, retail locations, grocery stores, hardware stores, electronic stores, manufacturing locations, call centers. Wearable mobile upward air curtains can be used, by way of example only, by or in, schools, teachers, healthcare workers, passengers, flight attendants, workers, retail locations, grocery stores, hardware stores, electronic stores, manufacturing locations, call centers.

[00028] While the upward air curtain device can be utilized usually indoors, the device can also be utilized in an outdoor environment. As used herein the term cleaned air can mean that the air curtain is comprised of air that has been processed or treated through an air purification chamber and/or using a filter. As used herein the term ambient air can mean that the air curtain is comprised of ambient room air and has not been processed through an air purification chamber and/or a filter. Embodiments which produce an ambient upward air curtain do not employ an air purification chamber. In this case, the upward air curtain is comprised of non-cleaned air, or said another way, non-cleaned ambient room air. The embodiments producing a cleaned air curtain as described herein pull ambient air in through an air intake, comprise one or more fan, and the air passes through an air purification chamber that is a component of the device, and then the treated/cleaned air flows out through an outflow air curtain aperture in the form of an upward air curtain of cleaned air. Said another way, the ambient room air has been cleaned and the upward air curtain is comprised of cleaned air. An air purification chamber can employ any and all known antimicrobial means to destroy pathogens, by way of example only, antimicrobial heat, antimicrobial ultrasound, antimicrobial chemical, antimicrobial material, or plasma. Such an air purification chamber can employ one or more filters, by way of example only, prefilter, filter, activated carbon, HEPA, or antiviral filter. In other embodiments ambient air can proceed through an air intake, then a fan, and then out through an air curtain outflow aperture in the form of an upward ambient (non-cleaned) air curtain. The word fixed as used herein means stationary and/or secured (it is generally not mobile like the wearable, mobile devices described herein). [00029] Turning now to some of the Figures, FIG. 1 shows a potential wearable embodiment of the current invention to be worn around the neck of a wearer of the device. On the left is the front of the neck 1001 near the face of a wearer, and on the right is the back of the neck of the wearer 1002. The upwardly blowing air curtain 1003 is shown. Ambient room air 1004 is pulled upward into the device, through a carbon 1005 and/or HEPA 1006 filter, using one or more fan 1007, and then out through outflow apertures at or near the top of the device. In this embodiment, the device is supported by the neck and/or shoulders of the wearer and it fits over the shoulders. In aspects, it opens and closes at the back using pressure, magnets, or other ways of attaching at the opening/closing portion as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[00030] FIG. 2 is the same embodiment as FIG. 1, but viewing the device from the top looking down.

[00031] FIG. 3 is a similar device that that shown in FIGs. 1 and 2, but instead of circular or oval apertures like in FIGs. 1 and 2, the device of FIG. 3 uses slit-like, curved apertures 3008. [00032] FIG. 4 is similar to the devices shown in FIGs. 1 and 2, but instead of the apertures surrounding or encircling the head of the wearer, the apertures 4008 are located only in front of and/or around the face of the wearer.

[00033] FIG. 5 demonstrates functionality of the device 5001 in terms of a CFD-Vector Analysis), wherein a CADR of 20 of cleaned air as generated by the device blocks/deflects 100% or around 100% of a cough from a non-wearer from contaminating air being breathed by the wearer of the device. In this Figure, the non-wearer is three feet from the wearer.

[00034] FIG. 6 demonstrates functionality of the device 6001 in terms of a CFD-Vector

Analysis), wherein a C DR of 20 of cleaned air as generated by the device blocks/deflects 100% or around 100% of a cough from a non-wearer from contaminating air being breathed by the wearer of the device. In this Figure, the non-wearer is two feet from the wearer.

[00035] FIG. 7 shows a schematic of yet another embodiment of the device comprising a travel neck cushion with a protective air curtain. The figures is looking from the top down to the device, showing the head of the wearer 7001 with curved slit-like apertures 7002 partially surrounding the face of the wearer. Non-limiting example dimensions are noted in the figure. In this embodiment as depicted, the air curtain outflow aperture sizes are, in aspects, thinner in the center and wider at the edges. Walls 7003 are also shown that functionally [DR. BLUM, WHAT DO THESE “WALLS” DO - PLEASE EXPLAIN/DESCRIBE ]

[00036] FIG. 8 shows a schematic of yet another embodiment of the device comprising a travel neck cushion 8001 with a protective air curtains that will intersect in front of the face of the wearer to create a continuous air curtain 8005. The one or more fans 8002 in one or both sides 8003 of the neck cushion will create the upwardly blowing air curtain 8004.

[00037] FIG. 9 is similar to FIG. 8, but the device 9001 comprises, by way of example, a plurality of circular or ovular holes as apertures 9002 to create the upwardly blowing air curtain 9003, and further the apertures completely or partially surround the face of the wearer. In this embodiment, air is taken in through a bottom of the device 9004 using a fan(s) 9005 and blown out through the apertures 9002.

[00038] FIG. 10 shows optional directional air curtain flow nozzles. In the right section of the device 10001, there can be a curved directional slit-like nozzle 10002 to direct the air flow that creates the air curtain 10003 in a desired or chosen direction. In the left section of the device 10004, there can be a curved directional slit-like nozzle 10005 to direct the air flow that creates the air curtain 10006 in a desired or chosen direction. One or more outflow air curtain aperture(s) 10007 are located at the top of the nozzle to create the air curtain. In the embodiment shown, one or more air intake 10008 is located towards or at the bottom facing side of the device.

[00039] FIG. 11 shows another potential embodiment of a wearable, mobile, upward air curtain generating device 11001 from a top-down perspective. In this embodiment, air is suctioned through an air intake located at or near the bottom of the device 11002 using one or more fan 11003. In this embodiment, there can be horizontal curved (or non-curved) slit-like outflow air curtain apertures 11004. There can also be Z-axis slit-like outflow air curtain apertures 11005. Tn this embodiment, batteries 11006 can power the fan and device. Tn this embodiment, the right section would provide an air curtain that is angled towards the fact from that direction and the left section would provide an air curtain that is angled towards the face from that direction. In this embodiment, there can be the optional direction nozzle as described and shown in FIG. 10. These nozzles 12001 are further depicted in FIG. 12.

[00040] FIG. 13 depicts another embodiment of the invention described herein showing air intakes under the device 13001 and air curtain outflow apertures 13002 creating the upwardly blowing air curtain that is continuous as it intersects 13003 in front of the face of the wearer. This embodiment also includes a communication platform, which, in aspects, can comprise a microphone 13004, a speaker 13005, a battery 13006, and wireless communication electronics 13007.

[00041] FIG. 14 depicts that the device can be configured in several ways. In one way, ambient uncleaned air is suctioned through a bottom of the device using a fan and that air is exhausted as the air curtain without being cleaned (see option A). In another way, ambient uncleaned air is suctioned through a bottom of the device using a fan, it passes through a means of cleaning the air (such as a filter or HEPA filter), and that air is exhausted/blown out as the air curtain after being cleaned (see option B).

[00042] FIG. 15 demonstrates functionality of the device 15001, wherein the upwardly blowing air curtain 15002 generated by the device blocks/deflects a cough 15003 from a nonwearer 15004 from contaminating air being breathed by the wearer 15005 of the device.

[00043] FIG. 16 demonstrates functionality of the device 16001, wherein a CADR of 20 of cleaned air as generated by the device blocks/deflects 100% or around 100% of a cough from a non-wearer 16002 from contaminating air being breathed by the wearer 16003 of the device.

[00044] FIG. 17 demonstrates functionality of the device 17001, wherein an air curtain

17004 of around 20 feet per second as generated by the device blocks/deflects 17006 a cough

17005 from a non-wearer 17002 from contaminating air being breathed by the wearer 17003 of the device. In this depiction, the non-wearer is two feet from the wearer. In this depiction, the velocity of the air curtain is around 20 feet per second. In this depiction, the air curtain is tilted 15 degrees inward toward horizontal and has a 20 degree forward tilt to vertical, although those numbers are non-limiting examples. In this embodiment, the continuous air curtain is around 6 inches from the wearer’s face, although that number is a non-limiting example. [00045] FTG. 18 depicts another embodiment of the invention described herein wherein the angle(s) of the air curtain(s) relative to the face of the wearer is adjustable and can be set in a preferred fixed position using, for example, a hinge 18002. For example, a wearer can also, in aspects, flip the fans up to turn on the air curtain and flip the fan down to turn off the air curtain. This embodiment shows air curtain outflow apertures 18001 creating the upwardly blowing air curtain that is continuous as it intersects in front of the face of the wearer. This embodiment also includes a communication platform, which, in aspects, can comprise a microphone 18003, a speaker 18004, a battery 18005, and wireless communication electronics 18006. This embodiment also shows an optional attachment mechanism 18007 to attach the device to a shirt or clothing top worn by the wearer.

[00046] FIG. 19 depicts another embodiment of the invention described herein wherein the angle(s) of the air curtain(s) relative to the face of the wearer is adjustable and can be set in a preferred fixed position using, for example, a ball hinge joint or ball-and-socket hinge joint 19002. For example, a wearer can also, in aspects, flip the fans up to turn on the air curtain and flip the fan down to turn off the air curtain. This embodiment shows air curtain outflow apertures 19001 creating the upwardly blowing air curtain that is continuous as it intersects in front of the face of the wearer. This embodiment also includes a communication platform, which, in aspects, can comprise a microphone 19003, a speaker 19004, a battery 19005, and wireless communication electronics 19006. This embodiment also shows an optional attachment mechanism 19007 to attach the device to a shirt or clothing top worn by the wearer.

[00047] FIG. 20 depicts another embodiment of the invention described herein wherein the angle(s) of the air curtain(s) relative to the face of the wearer is adjustable and can be set in a preferred fixed position using, for example, a ball hinge joint or ball-and-socket hinge joint 20002. For example, a wearer can also, in aspects, flip the fans up to turn on the air curtain and flip the fan down to turn off the air curtain. This embodiment shows air curtain outflow apertures 20001 creating the upwardly blowing air curtain that is continuous as it intersects in front of the face of the wearer. This embodiment also includes a communication platform 20007 (separate from the air curtain portion 20008), which, in aspects, can comprise a microphone 20003, a speaker 20004, a battery 20005, and wireless communication electronics 20006.

[00048] FIG. 21 depicts that the device can be configured in several ways. In one way, ambient uncleaned air is suctioned through a bottom of the device using a fan and that air is exhausted as the air curtain without being cleaned (see option A). Tn another way, ambient uncleaned air is suctioned through a bottom of the device using a fan, it passes through a means of cleaning the air (such as a filter or HEPA filter), and that air is exhausted/blown out as the air curtain after being cleaned (see option B).

[00049] FIG. 22 depicts another embodiment of the invention described herein wherein the angle(s) of the air curtain(s) relative to the face of the wearer is adjustable and can be set in a preferred fixed position using, for example, a hinge with an angle setting mechanism 21002. For example, a wearer can also, in aspects, flip the fans up to turn on the air curtain and flip the fan down to turn off the air curtain. This embodiment shows air curtain outflow apertures 21001 creating the upwardly blowing air curtain that is continuous as it intersects in front of the face of the wearer. This embodiment uses intake air vents 21007 and one or more fans 210008 to generate the air curtain. This embodiment also includes a communication platform, which, in aspects, can comprise a microphone 21003, a speaker 21004, a battery 21005, and wireless communication electronics 21006.

[00050] FIG. 23 demonstrates functionality of the device 23001, wherein the upwardly blowing air curtain 23002 generated by the device blocks/deflects a cough 23003 from a nonwearer 23004 from contaminating air being breathed by the wearer 23005 of the device. This depiction is a top-down view showing a protected space 23006 created by the device so that the wearer is not contaminated by the non-wearer’s cough (or breath, sneeze, etc.).

[00051] FIG. 24 demonstrates functionality of the device 24001, wherein the upwardly blowing air curtain 24002 generated by the device blocks/deflects a cough 24003 from the wearer 24004 from contaminating air being breathed by the non-wearer 24005 of the device. [00052] FIG. 25 depicts functionality when a non-wearer 25002 coughs and the device 25001 has relatively larger outflow apertures and a slower velocity air curtain, wherein the outflow air aperture is around 0.2 inches wide. In this example, the cough of the non-wearer is blocked around 3 inches in front of the face of the wearer 25003.

[00053] FIG. 26 demonstrates functionality of the device 26001, wherein the device has relatively larger outflow apertures and a slower velocity air curtain, wherein the outflow air aperture is around 0.2 inches wide, and wherein the upwardly blowing air curtain 26002 generated by the device blocks/deflects a cough 26003 from the wearer 26004 from contaminating air being breathed by the non-wearer 26005 of the device. In this example, the one or more fans air curtain velocity is around 30 feet/second and the air curtain velocity in front of the face of the wearer is around 10-15 feet/second.

[00054] FIG. 27 depicts another embodiment of the invention described herein wherein the angle(s) of the air curtain(s) relative to the face of the wearer is adjustable and can be set in a preferred fixed position using, for example, a hinge 27002. For example, a wearer can also, in aspects, flip the fans up to turn on the air curtain and flip the fan down to turn off the air curtain. This embodiment shows air curtain outflow apertures 27001 creating the upwardly blowing air curtain using one or more fans 27008. This embodiment also includes a communication platform, which, in aspects, can comprise a microphone 27003, a speaker 27004, a battery 27005, and wireless communication electronics 27006. This embodiment also shows an optional attachment mechanism 27007 in the back which separates and can be secured using, for example, a magnet.

[00055] FIG. 28 shows the maskless, protective, mobile upward air curtain device, such as the one depicted in FIG. 27, wherein the upward arrows depict the upwardly blowing protective air curtain.

[00056] FIG. 29 shows the shape of an air curtain 29001 in front of a wearer’s face 29003. As the exhaled air of a non-user (e.g., breath, cough, sneeze, talking, etc.) 29002 comes toward the wearer, the upwardly blowing air curtain 29001 creates a safe area 29005 in front of the face of the wearer, which is free or substantially free from the oncoming exhaled air of the nonwearer. This also serves to block/deflect that exhaled air from contaminating the wearer.

[00057] FIG. 30 shows an upward air curtain device 30001 having exhaust fans 30002 and which creates an upwardly blowing air curtain 30003 depicted by the arrows. In aspects, the device can comprise an optional pre-filter, filter, and/or activated carbon filter 30005, by way of example. It may also comprise an extension arm 30004 to keep body parts or other objects from blocking air flow.

[00058] FIG. 31 shows an upward air curtain device 31001 having exhaust fans 31002 and which creates an upwardly blowing air curtain 31003 depicted by the arrows, and which air curtain is comprised of cleaned air. The device includes a pre-filter and/or activated carbon filter 31005, by way of example, and, for example, a HEPA filter 31004. It may also comprise an extension arm to keep body parts or other objects from blocking air flow. In this example, the air intake is from below, underneath, and/or from the bottom of the device 31006. [00059] FTG. 32 is a depiction of a room including upwardly blowing air curtain devices 32001 as described herein, such as the one shown in FIG. 31. The device, in this example, is on, near, attached to, fixed to, and/or affixed to, a desk or other piece of furniture (e.g,. tabletop, desktop, or countertop). The upward air curtains are shown by upward arrows (see, e.g., 31002). In aspects, the upward air curtain device is “fixed” to the front or near the front of, for example, a desk or a table. In aspects, and this is optional, there can be ceiling air returns 32003 which capture the upwardly blowing air curtains. The air returns can clean the air, in aspects. The cleaned air can be returned to the room, in aspects. The air that is captured can be blown or otherwise directed outside of the room, in aspects.

[00060] FIG. 33 is a depiction of a room including an upwardly blowing air curtain device 33001 as described herein, such as the one shown in FIG. 31. The device, in this example, is on, near, attached to, fixed to, and/or affixed to, a desk or other piece of furniture (e g,, tabletop, desktop, or countertop). The upward air curtains are shown by upward arrows (see, e.g., 33002). In aspects, the upward air curtain device is “fixed” to the front or near the front of, for example, a desk or a table. In aspects, and this is optional, there can be ceiling air returns which capture the upwardly blowing air curtains. The air returns can clean the air, in aspects. The cleaned air can be returned to the room, in aspects. The air that is captured can be blown or otherwise directed outside of the room, in aspects. The device may also comprise an extension arm 33003 to keep body parts or other objects from blocking air flow.

[00061] FIG. 34 shows the device of FIG. 33, wherein the device is built into or incorporated into a top of a piece of furniture, such as a desk, a table, or a counter. In this embodiment, by way of example, the outflow air aperture is at or near the top of the desk, table or counter 34003. FIG. 34 is a depiction of a room including an upwardly blowing air curtain device 34001 as described herein, such as the one shown in FIG. 31. The upward air curtains are shown by upward arrows (see, e.g., 34002). In aspects, and this is optional, there can be ceiling air returns which capture the upwardly blowing air curtains. The air returns can clean the air, in aspects. The cleaned air can be returned to the room, in aspects. The air that is captured can be blown or otherwise directed outside of the room, in aspects.

[00062] FIG. 35 is a depiction of a room including one or more upwardly blowing air curtain devices 35001 as described herein, such as the one shown in FIG. 31. The device, in this example, is on, near, attached to, fixed to, and/or affixed to, a piece of furniture (e g,, tabletop, desktop, or countertop). The upward air curtains are shown by upward arrows (see, e g., 35002). In aspects, the upward air curtain device is “fixed” to the front or near the front of, for example, a desk, table, or counter. In aspects, and this is optional, there can be overhead ceiling air returns 35003 which capture the upwardly blowing air curtains. The air returns can clean the air, in aspects, such as by using a filter, air purification chamber, and/or air purifier. The cleaned air can be returned to the room, in aspects. The air that is captured can be blown or otherwise directed outside of the room, in aspects. In this embodiment, the air intake is at or near the bottom of the device, underneath the device, or below the device.

[00063] FIG. 36 shows a plurality of devices being used such as the one shown in FIG. 35. In this example, a plurality of fixed upward air curtain devices and air curtains are shown within an indoor space, such that one is located at each checkout station (e.g., point of interaction) to protect a plurality of workers from a plurality of shoppers, and vice versa. This can pertain to other settings, as well, such as classrooms, business places, transportation places, and anyplace else where people can be affected by the exhaled air/cough/sneeze/etc. of another person.

[00064] FIGs. 37, 38, and 39 depict the functionality of a device as described herein being located on, placed on, or attached to, at, or near a waist of a wearer 37001/38001/39001. In this depiction, the waist worn device can adequately protect a wearer 37002/38002/39002 from exhaled air from a non-wearer 37003/38003/39003. The air curtain 38004/39004 adequately blocks the exhaled air/cough/sneeze 38005/39005 of the non-wearer.

[00065] FIG. 40 is another depiction related to the waist worn upward air curtain device 40001 generating a protective upwardly blowing air curtain 40002. Atop down view 40005 shows the outside perimeter of a fan cover 40004 including upward air curtain outflow slit-like apertures 40003. Non-limiting dimensions are provided in the Figure, and the dimensions, in aspects, can work with both the waist worn upward air curtain device and the shoulder/neck worm upward air curtain device. Another top down view 40006, shows that the top down view of 40005 is one of the fan structures of at least two fan structures that comprise the device 40007. [00066] The present invention has been described with reference to particular embodiments having various features. In light of the disclosure provided above, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the practice of the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. One skilled in the art will recognize that the disclosed features may be used singularly, in any combination, or omitted based on the requirements and specifications of a given application or design. When an embodiment refers to “comprising” certain features, it is to be understood that the embodiments can alternatively “consist of’ or “consist essentially of’ any one or more of the features. Other embodiments of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the invention.

[00067] It is noted that where a range of values is provided in this specification, each value between the upper and lower limits of that range is also specifically disclosed. The upper and lower limits of these smaller ranges may independently be included or excluded in the range as well. The singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as exemplary in nature and that variations that do not depart from the essence of the invention fall within the scope of the invention. Further, all of the references cited in this disclosure are each individually incorporated by reference herein in their entireties and as such are intended to provide an efficient way of supplementing the enabling disclosure of this invention as well as provide background detailing the level of ordinary skill in the art.

[00068] As used herein, the term “about” refers to plus or minus 5 units (e.g., percentage) of the stated value.

[00069] Reference in the specification to “some embodiments”, “an embodiment”, “one embodiment” or “other embodiments” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiments is included in at least some embodiments, but not necessarily all embodiments, of the inventions.

[00070] As used herein, the term “substantial” and “substantially” refers to what is easily recognizable to one of ordinary skill in the art.

[00071] “Upwardly” blowing air and “upwardly” blowing air curtain as used herein means air blowing in any direction or orientation that results in the net movement of air in an upward direction relative to the device creating the air curtain, irrespective of the specific angle or degree of inclination. This definition encompasses a variety of orientations, including but not limited to vertically upward, diagonally upward, or any other upward angle. It allows for flexibility in the design and implementation of devices that blow air upwardly while still falling within the scope of the defined term. [00072] It is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein is not to be construed as limiting and are for descriptive purpose only.

[00073] It is to be understood that while certain of the illustrations and figure may be close to the right scale, most of the illustrations and figures are not intended to be of the correct scale.

[00074] It is to be understood that the details set forth herein do not construe a limitation to an application of the invention.

[00075] Furthermore, it is to be understood that the invention can be carried out or practiced in various ways and that the invention can be implemented in embodiments other than the ones outlined in the description above.

Claims

1. A device providing an upwardly blowing air curtain, the device comprising one or more outflow air apertures and one or more means for generating an air current, wherein the one or more means for generating the air current form the upwardly blowing air curtain using the one or more outflow air apertures, wherein the device is wearable, and wherein all or a portion of the upwardly blowing air curtain is distance separated in front of a face of a person wearing the device.

2. The device of claim 1, wherein the device rests on or is supported by at least one of: a chest, a waist, and at least one shoulder, of the person wearing the device.

3. The device of claim 1, wherein the device partially or completely circumvents or encircles a portion of or all of at least one of: a chest, a waist, and a neck, of the person wearing the device.

4. The device of claim 1, wherein the one or more means for generating the air current is one or more fans.

5. The device of claim 4, wherein one or more of the one or more fans is tilted with respect to a horizontal axis, a vertical axis, or both.

6. The device of claim 1, wherein the upwardly blowing air curtain partially or completely comprises air treated by a filter or another means for cleaning air.

7. The device of claim 1, further comprising a hands-free communication platform.

8. The device of claim 1, further comprising one or more fans.

9. The device of claim 1, further comprising one or more air filters.

10. The device of claim 1, further comprising a neck cushion, a neck support, or both.

11. The device of claim 1, wherein the upwardly blowing air curtain is angled away from a forehead of the person wearing the device.

12. The device of claim 1, wherein the upwardly blowing air curtain comprises a right upwardly blowing air curtain and a left upwardly blowing air curtain.

13. The device of claim 1, wherein the upwardly blowing air curtain is a continuous air curtain.

14. The device of claim 1, further comprising one or more fans that pull air through or push air through one or more filter.

15. The device of claim 1 , wherein the upwardly blowing air curtain is comprised of ambient, non-cleaned room air.

16. The device of claim 1, wherein all or a portion of the upwardly blowing air curtain is separated into two or more substantially vertical columns of upwardly blowing air.

17. The device of claim 1, further comprising one or more of a cooling component, a vibrating component, or a massage component.

18. The device of claim 1, wherein the device includes a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion is capable of being separated from the second portion, and wherein the two portions are capable of being attached using hook and loop fasteners, one or more magnets, or both.

19. The device of claim 1, wherein the device includes a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion is capable of being separated from the second portion to facilitate placing the device on or around a neck of the person wearing the device, and wherein the first portion is capable of being attached to the second portion once the device is placed on or around the neck of the person wearing the device.

20. The device of claim 1, further comprising one or more nozzles.

21. The device of claim 1, wherein the device includes a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion and the second portion are capable of being separated when putting the device on or around a neck of the person wearing the device, and wherein the two portions are attached to secure the device to the person wearing the device.

22. The device of claim 1, wherein a velocity of air flow from the upwardly blowing air curtain leaving the one or more outflow air apertures is greater than a velocity of air flow leaving the one or more means for generating the air current.

23. The device of claim 1, further comprising a wireless communication module.

24. The device of claim 1, further comprising a communication platform, wherein the communication platform is connected to a portion of the device that generates the upwardly blowing air curtain using a hinge, and wherein the hinge is one of a ball hinge joint or a conventional hinge joint.

25. The device of claim 1, wherein a distance of air space of 0.12 inches or greater separates the one or more outflow air apertures and the one or more means for generating the air current.

26. The device of claim 1 , wherein the upwardly blowing air curtain is separated into two separated upwardly blowing air curtains, and wherein the two separated upwardly blowing air curtains intersect in front of a face of the person wearing the device.

27. The device of claim 1, further comprising two or more of: a transceiver, a receiver, a transmitter, a speaker, a microphone, a Bluetooth chip, a microchip, a controller, a Wi-Fi chip, a telecoil, a rechargeable battery, a wireless charging coil, a vibrator, a sound alarm, a tilt switch, an accelerometer, universal serial bus port, alternating current power, a light, and a switch.

28. The device of claim 1, further comprising one or more of: a Peltier cooler, a phase change material, a memory material, and an anti -microbial material.

29. The device of claim 1, wherein one or more of the one or more outflow air apertures are one of a straight slit, curved slit, an oval, a circle, a round, a polygonal shape, and a curved shape

30. The device of claim 1, wherein a velocity of the upwardly blowing air curtain measured in front a mouth of the person wearing the device is 10 feet per second or greater.