Means For Keeping Viewing Member (e.g., Eyeglass, Transparent Face Shield, Etc.) Clear Patents (Class 128/201.15)
  • Patent number: 11800904
    Abstract: An attachment system is provided for attaching a neck protector to a face mask. The attachment system includes a cord and a connector where the connector comprises a first portion and a second portion with corresponding engaging elements and a throughbore defined through each of the first portion and the second portion for receiving the cord. Kits for attaching a neck protector to a face mask are also provided where the kits include one or both of the neck protector and face mask together with the attachment system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2023
    Inventor: Daniel Spence
  • Patent number: 11701528
    Abstract: A respiratory protection composite facepiece is disclosed and includes a polymeric rigid facepiece body portion having a first surface and a second surface and a silicone sealing facepiece element chemically bonded at least one of the first surface or the second surface. The first and second surfaces can be opposing major surfaces. A second silicone element is chemically bonded to at least one of the first surface or the second surface. Methods of making the same are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2023
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Paul J. Flannigan, Johannes Hoogenraad, David P. Knivsland
  • Patent number: 11583706
    Abstract: A headgear device for a user including an integrated face shield, mask and hood. More specifically, the headgear device includes a hood, a face shield, and a moisture barrier fabric to cover the user's mouth when the headgear device is worn and direct air out through a breathable particle filtration fabric.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2023
    Assignee: KIMBERLY-CLARK WORLDWIDE, INC.
    Inventors: Theresa M. McCoy, Alice S. Gordon, Suzuko Hisata, JaeHun Gu, Alyssa G. Mellett, Philip D. Palermo
  • Patent number: 11565065
    Abstract: A face mask (also called full face) for respiratory therapy, in particular for non-invasive mechanical ventilation, has a low value of CO2 rebreathing. The mask includes a shaped shell to cover at least the mouth, the nose and the eyes of a patient when the mask is worn, and includes, on said shaped shell an inlet fitting for the connection to a pipe through which a ventilation apparatus supplies the mask with a mixture of air and oxygen, and an outlet fitting, separate from said inlet fitting, for the discharge of air exhaled by the patient. With this arrangement, the mask allows drastically reducing the phenomenon of carbon dioxide rebreathing, which is very harmful for the patient subjected to ventilation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2023
    Assignee: DIMAR S.R.L.
    Inventor: Maurizio Borsari
  • Patent number: 11554275
    Abstract: A full face respirator comprising a mask (10) having a transparent viewing portion (12) and a port portion (16), and exhalation port (22) disposed in said port portion (16), a face seal configured (14) to seal the mask (10) over a wearer's eyes, nose and mouth, in use, and an orinasal assembly (2) including a flexible, cup-shaped orinasal (2) having an orifice (2a) and being configured to fit over a wearer's nose and mouth, in use; wherein the orinasal assembly (2) further includes generally tubular connecting portion (24), integrally formed with and extending outwardly from the periphery of the orifice (2a), the connection portion (24) being shaped and configured to extend through the exhalation port (22) from the inner region to the outer region of the mask (10) and including an exhalation valve mount (28) for receiving a one-way exhalation valve (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2023
    Assignee: JSP Limited
    Inventors: Tom Malloy, Matthew Judson, Clive Johnstone
  • Patent number: 11547879
    Abstract: A gas mask, for use with a gas filter or with a demand oxygen system, includes an elastic mask body, a connector and a counter-support. The elastic mask body is configured to be placed over the mouth and the nose of a user of the gas mask. The connector is attached to the elastic mask body and is configured to fix a gas filter or an end piece of a tube in a mount of the connector. The counter-support is attached to the elastic mask body and has a contact area for a support projection of the connector. The connector and the counter-support are arranged such that a force exerted on the connector in a direction of the user acts on the contact area of the counter-support at least partially via the support projection. The support projection is integrated at the connector by manufacturing in one piece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2023
    Assignee: Dräger Safety AG & Co. KGaA
    Inventors: Olaf Balke, Jan Musow, Benedikt Spiegel
  • Patent number: 11478699
    Abstract: The present application discloses a VR glasses accessory and a VR glasses assembly. The VR glasses accessory is applied for VR glasses, and the VR glasses have a facing side facing a user's face. The VR glasses accessory includes a main body, a connector and a nose cover. The main body is configured to be arranged on an edge of the facing side and abut against the user's face. The connector is configured to connect the main body to the VR glasses, and the nose cover is arranged on the main body at a position corresponding to the user's nose, to shade at the user's nose. The present application solves a problem that current VR glasses have poor shading effect, resulting in poor gaming experience obtained by VR game players when wearing VR glasses games.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2022
    Assignee: SHENZHEN HONGJIANTOU TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD
    Inventor: Zhinan Zhang
  • Patent number: 11422080
    Abstract: Various embodiments include composite wicks for ultra-low noise condensation particle counters (CPCs). In one embodiment, a composite wick includes a first porous material having a first pore density, with the first porous material further having a first surface and an opposing second surface. A second porous material is in fluid communication with the first porous material and has a first surface with an area substantially the same as an area of the first surface of the first porous material. The first surface of the second porous material is substantially in contact with the first surface of the first porous material. The second porous material has a pore density that is dissimilar the first pore density of the first material. The first material and the second material are configured to provide vapor from a liquid to a fluid-based particle counter. Other apparatuses are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2022
    Assignee: TSI Incorporated
    Inventors: Robert Caldow, Sean Morell, Kenneth Farmer, Sreenath Avula
  • Patent number: 11318283
    Abstract: A medical tube holding system for holding tubes extending from the mouth of a patient. Embodiments of the system comprise a rim or mask shaped and sized to be supported on the face of a patient, a lower support surface comprising various shapes and openings, and a tube holding device comprising at least one opening for receiving a medical tube and comprising a first adjusting component and a second adjusting component. Embodiments of the system include various features, including adjusting mechanisms in various dimensions, tube clamps, cushioning and straps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2022
    Inventors: Sam L. Shackelford, Tyler Shackelford
  • Patent number: 11273334
    Abstract: A respiratory mask includes a body having an interior space that defines a plenum between the body and a face of the user when the user is wearing the mask. The respiratory mask also includes a voice transmittal feature in and contiguous with the body that has a voice transmittal membrane that is configured to vibrate in response to sound waves generated by the user such that the voice transmittal membrane transmits the sound waves from the plenum of the body to an ambient environment of the user. The voice transmittal feature thus enhances the intelligibility of a user's speech so that others may more clearly understand what the user is saying. For example, this may increase safety and efficiency in emergency response situations in which the use of a respiratory mask is required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2022
    Assignee: Scott Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Darin Kyle Thompson, Amy Elizabeth Quiring, Edward Powers Simmonds, Graham Peter Wilson, Carl Estcourt Tucker
  • Patent number: 11213641
    Abstract: A therapeutic device for treating conditions of a user's nasal cavities, sinuses, and/or ear canals includes a housing which the user may hold to apply the therapeutic device to the user, the housing including an inlet that allows air to enter the therapeutic device. An acoustic vibrator located within the housing provides an acoustic vibration to the user, and a power supply located within the housing provides power to the acoustic vibrator. A mask is connected to the housing and includes a nasal interface that is appliable around the nose of the user. A valve of the mask opens to allow the user to breathe through the inlet and closes to prevent the user from exhaling through the inlet. The mask further includes a diaphragm and a nasal cavity in which a user's nostrils are located when the nasal interface is applied to the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2022
    Assignee: Healthy Humming, LLC
    Inventors: Richard K. Bogan, David J. Lewis, Caleb Pinckney, David Bonner, Michael Maloney
  • Patent number: 10870023
    Abstract: A device designed to prevent fogging of glasses is provided. The device can be used while a wearer wears glasses. The device can include a breathable mask with a strap extending from the mask to hold the mask in a position on the wearer. There can be one or more vents disposed on a side of the mask. A layer of material can extend across the mask and the strap to attach the mask to the glasses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2020
    Inventor: Navin Raj Bora
  • Patent number: 10556654
    Abstract: A full face diving mask having a transparent visor (2), a frame or strapping (3), a sealing skirt (4) to ensure the water-tight seal, and suitable straps (5) for fitting the mask on the user's face. The mask has a breathing tube (6) which engages on the tipper part of the mask and which allows the flow of air to enter into the compartment made between the frame and the visor. The breathing tube is made with separate ducts for the air inhaled and exhaled and the inside of the mask is made with two compartments, an upper main compartment (26) and a lower oronasal compartment (7) separated by a separating wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2020
    Assignee: Ocean Reef Inc.
    Inventor: Gabriele Cucchia
  • Patent number: 10391337
    Abstract: A respirator assembly has a shell that defines a breathable air space for a user wearing the respirator assembly. The respirator assembly has an air delivery conduit within the shell for providing air to the breathable air space. The air delivery conduit has an air outlet that is either adjustable in configuration or has a vane associated therewith that is adjustable in position so that the direction of the air exiting the air outlet is controllable between first and second air flow directions. The user is able to control the direction of air exiting the air outlet while the respirator assembly is worn by the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Desmond T. Curran, Andrew Murphy, Garry J. Walker
  • Patent number: 10173084
    Abstract: A gas mask is provided with a mask body, which is designed to cover the face of a user, and with an opening in the mask body, which is closed by a speech diaphragm (8) in a gas-tight manner. A funnel (4) is directed toward the speech diaphragm with an opening angle in the range of 20° to 90°. The funnel (4) is arranged in front of the speech diaphragm in the interior space of the mask body in order to focus sound waves onto the speech diaphragm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2019
    Assignee: DRAEGER SAFETY AG & CO. KGAA
    Inventors: Dirk Feil, Werner Lange, Christoph Schmidt, Achim Volmer, Martin Weisgerber
  • Patent number: 10137273
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for delivering a supply of gases to a patient. The device includes a patient interface and connecting member. The connecting member is preferably a L-shaped swiveled connector that is capable of being fixed into one of two positions, a first position where the connector is freely rotatable within the patient interface, and a second position where an interference between the interface and connector prevents the free rotation of the connector within the patient interface, The present invention further relates to a connector that has outlet means, which includes at least one outlet vent and a funnel, which in use directs and passes a substantial portion gases expired from the patient through the outlet vent or vents.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2018
    Assignee: Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Limited
    Inventors: Nicholas Charles Alan Smith, Alastair Edwin McAuley, Christopher Earl Nightingale, Ivan Milivojevic, Lewis George Gradon
  • Patent number: 9913952
    Abstract: This invention relates to an inhaler with a respiration indicator, whereby the inhaler has a chamber wall forming a chamber and a dispensing device for fluidic connection of the chamber to a bodily opening, preferably a nostril, whereby the respiration indicator has a wall section of the chamber wall or is formed in this way, whereby the wall section is designed to indicate a respiratory activity by deformation and/or movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica GmbH
    Inventors: Marcus Knell, Guido Endert, Horst Wergen
  • Patent number: 9757534
    Abstract: A respiratory mask includes a frame and a mask releasably engaged with the frame. The mask includes a body portion defining a mask internal space and a sealing portion structured to engage a patient's face. The body portion includes a plurality of outlet openings for gas washout.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2017
    Assignee: ResMed R&D Germany GmbH
    Inventors: Bernd Christoph Lang, Achim Biener, Dieter Heidmann, Stefan Rolf Madaus, Harald Wolfgang Vögele
  • Patent number: 9737678
    Abstract: A mask system for delivery of respiratory therapy to a patient includes a nares portion and a mouth portion and an inlet conduit connected to at least one of the nares portion and the mouth portion to deliver the pressurized, breathable gas. The mask system is adapted to selectively utilize the nares portion and/or the mouth portion in a first mode utilizing both the nares portion and the mouth portion, and in a second mode utilizing the nares portion and not utilizing the mouth portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: ResMed Limited
    Inventors: Justin John Formica, Jose Ignacio Romagnoli, Philip Rodney Kwok, Joel Edward Gibson, David Anthony Pidcock, Christopher Scott Skipper, Stephen Gray
  • Patent number: 9592410
    Abstract: Provided is a voice transmitter in a simple structure that can be manufactured at a low cost, and can make speech uttered by a wearer clearly hearable at the outside. In a voice transmitter unit that transmits the speech uttered by the wearer to the outside, a voice transmitter body of the voice transmitter unit includes: a diaphragm member able to transmit the speech from one side to the other side; and a holding member to hold at least a part of the diaphragm member, wherein the diaphragm member is formed of a heat-shrinkable material, and the diaphragm member is heated to be shrunk while the diaphragm member is held by the holding member, thereby holding the diaphragm member by the holding member while substantially an entire surface of the diaphragm member is tensed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2017
    Assignee: KOKEN LTD.
    Inventors: Ryo Kanno, Shoko Matsuda
  • Patent number: 9433807
    Abstract: A Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) Illumination System utilizing LED (light emitting diode) lights is designed as a modification to attach to a Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) mask to provide increased visibility to Professionals working in an Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH) environment. The SCBA illumination System can be easily installed on a typical mask. The SCBA illumination System comprises a strip of lights coupled to a power supply comprising a power button and a battery pack. The power button may include a push button or pressure sensor that allows a Professional to activate the push button or pressure sensor easily with a gloved hand. The power source may also include some type of circuitry that powers down the light after a specified amount of time to avoid draining the power source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2016
    Inventor: Michael Joseph Albrecht
  • Patent number: 9132299
    Abstract: A respirator includes an outer mask defining a first volume. An oronasal mask defines a second volume. The oronasal mask is positioned within the first volume. A primary filter is affixed to the outer mask and a secondary filter is positioned within the first volume such that the secondary filter filters air traveling from the first volume to the second volume. The secondary filter filters air traveling around a portion of the second volume. The filters are arranged to filter either particles or vapors, or a mixture of these, as required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2015
    Assignee: Scott Health & Safety Limited
    Inventors: Robert Charles Sutton, Grant Stuart Richardson
  • Patent number: 8910318
    Abstract: An induced draft anti-fog system for goggles and similar optical devices having an air tight goggle with ports, fixedly attached to a hollow elastomeric conduit. Said hollow conduit having an intake port and exhaust fan. The exhaust fan has an on/off switch in communication with two battery packs. When the fan is in operation air is drawn into the intake port and circulated into the goggle housing thereby defogging the goggle lens and then is circulated out through the fan.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2014
    Inventor: Mark Spiro
  • Patent number: 8534279
    Abstract: A headgear article includes a head covering member that has an opening formed therein. A panel is disposed over the opening and is removably attached to the head covering member. A respirator system is also disclosed that includes the headgear article and further including a visor and defining an interior zone. The respirator system also includes a clean air supply system having an inlet configured for connection to a source of clean air and an outlet disposed within the interior zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Thomas J. Brace, Alex Davies, Alan J. Solyntjes
  • Patent number: 8261375
    Abstract: A face and eye covering device includes a face cover configured for covering the nose and mouth of a wearer. The face cover is air permeable to allow the passage of air therethrough to facilitate breathing when worn over the wearer's nose or mouth. An eye shield is coupled to the face cover. The eye shield includes a lens and a lens protector releasably coupled to the lens. At least a portion of the lens and lens protector are transparent to allow visual perception therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Inventor: Brian K. Reaux
  • Patent number: 8240302
    Abstract: A breathing mask with debris deflector features small debris deflectors that close the gaps between the bottom profile of the eyewear worn by the user and the mask face-contacting perimeter. The debris deflectors are positioned, oriented and profiled to prevent fine debris from reaching and harming the eyes of the mask wearer without interfering with the field of vision of the wearer or causing visual glare.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Inventors: Amad Tayebi, Peter Arsenault
  • Patent number: 7946290
    Abstract: An underwater exhaust system and method which includes an exhaust valve having a sealing edge, an exhaust outlet for exiting an exhaust gas, and a projection for directing water flow away from the exhaust valve. The exhaust valve includes a valve head and a valve stem, the valve stem being coupled with the valve head. The system and method prevent a siphoning effect, whereby leakage of water into the exhaust valve is minimized or prevented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Assignee: Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: William B. Morgan, Peter M. Ryan, Connie L. Morgan, Trent M. Schultz
  • Patent number: 7870860
    Abstract: A respiratory mask provides improved sealing through the use of an intraoral mouthpiece with a large sealing area. A tubular extension, configured at one end to accept standard respiratory fittings, is the conduit for gas delivery to the intraoral mouthpiece. The respiratory mask may also include an intraoral oropharyngeal airway which flexes so that it can be inserted without the need for rotation or use of a tongue blade. The respiratory mask may also include an external shield to enhance sealing and provide a barrier of protection for the healthcare provider. The mask's design allows for a novel handgrip technique that allows a single healthcare provider to ventilate with enhanced sealing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2011
    Assignee: Numask, Inc.
    Inventors: James J. McCormick, William Jou, David Anthony, David Isagholian
  • Publication number: 20100126503
    Abstract: A scuba mask purging apparatus and method providing selective introduction of pressurized air into a scuba mask to initiate purging, pressure balancing, and de-fogging. An inlet valve, typically positioned conveniently on the top or the side of the mask may control the release of pressurized air into the mask. A pressure-sensitive outlet valve releases the pressurized air to force water from the mask. The outlet valve may be positioned on the lower portion of the mask or at a location where water is likely to collect.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2009
    Publication date: May 27, 2010
    Inventor: Phillip M. Adams
  • Patent number: 7703454
    Abstract: A device is disclosed for dispensing a fluid supplied from an external fluid source. The device comprises a transducer adapted to receive a fluid from the fluid source, and a collapsible linkage coupling the transducer and the fluid source. The linkage has a collapsible joint inhibiting discharge of the fluid source when in a locked orientation. The device further comprises a movable member coupled to the linkage such that inhalation forces on the device cause the linkage to collapse thereby discharging the fluid from the fluid source. The device may further include a dose counter coupled to the fluid source for registering the amount of doses administered from the fluid source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: Vortran Medical Technology
    Inventors: James I-Che Lee, Reza Saied, Glen M. Thomson
  • Publication number: 20090320835
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a full-face germproof respirator, which comprises a respirator body and a three-dimensional mask. The three-dimensional mask is assembled on the respirator body. The full-face germproof respirator is disposable owing to its adoption of low-cost materials and fabrication. All joints of the full-face germproof respirator are heat-sealed, achieving excellent germproof effects. Besides, the full-face germproof respirator adopts the three-dimensional mask, and thereby mists produced by a user are reduced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2009
    Publication date: December 31, 2009
    Inventor: Jing-Jyr LIN
  • Patent number: 7540039
    Abstract: A face and eye covering device includes a face cover configured for covering the nose and mouth of a wearer. The face cover is air permeable to allow the passage of air therethrough to facilitate breathing when worn over the wearer's nose or mouth. An eye shield is coupled to the face cover. The eye shield includes a lens and a lens protector releasably coupled to the lens. At least a portion of the lens and lens protector are transparent to allow visual perception therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2009
    Inventor: Brian K. Reaux
  • Patent number: 7490606
    Abstract: A medical garment ventilation system comprises a generally planar intake body having an intake face defining a plurality of intake ports spaced over the intake face, the intake body defining at least one outlet, the at least one outlet and one or more of the plurality of intake ports connected to one another by one or more passages through the body, at least one generally closed air flow path, the path having a first end in communication with at least one of the outlets of the intake body, and an air suction device for drawing air through the intake ports, through the intake body to the at least one closed air flow path, and along the at least one airflow path to an exhaust.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Inventor: Derek A. Duke
  • Patent number: 7455061
    Abstract: A diving helmet bubble diverter comprises a front skirt portion and a rear skirt portion attached to the front skirt portion at one end. The rear skirt portion is configured for mounting onto the diving helmet breathing regulator assembly. The attached front and rear skirt portions form side pockets that divert exhaust air bubbles away from the diver's mask when the rear skirt portion is mounted onto the regulator assembly. The mounted rear skirt portion forms a protective barrier between the exterior wall of the diving helmet and the exhaust whisker of the breathing regulator assembly that prevents air bubbles exiting the whisker from coming into contact with the diving helmet during diving activities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2008
    Assignee: Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: William B. Morgan, Connie L. Morgan, Trent M. Schultz
  • Patent number: 7357134
    Abstract: An underwater exhaust system includes an exhaust valve with a valve cover operatively coupled thereto. The valve cover is adapted to create an exhaled air pocket on the water interface side of the valve. The exhaled air pocket allows the valve to operate under reduced water resistance. The valve cover includes at least one water inlet passage and at least one exhaust gas opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2008
    Assignee: Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: William B. Morgan, Connie L. Morgan, Trent M. Schultz, Peter M. Ryan
  • Publication number: 20070251522
    Abstract: A respirator adapted to facilitate ease of donning and comfort during use comprising one or more of an adjustable or elastic strap that facilitates ease of donning and comfort during wear; and/or exhalation vents that direct exhaled air, at least in part, away from a users eye's; and/or fasteners that are easy to use and that facilitate ease of donning and comfort during wear; and/or respirator shapes that facilitate the wearing of eyeglasses with said respirator; and/or bellows-type, pneumatic, or other such components, associated with said respirator, that are adapted to promote adjustability of the fit of the respirator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2006
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Inventors: Debra N. Welchel, Megan C. H. Smith, Kiran K. Reddy, Herb F. Velazquez, Eric C. Steindorf, Timothy J. Peters, Russell J. Kroll, Philip D. Palermo, Suzuko Hisata
  • Patent number: 7213320
    Abstract: Closed air space devices and methods of use for full body bio hazard type suits that eliminates condensation and fogging from forming on the face masks and the window visors of the suit. The devices and methods have a sealed closed air space that can be formed from flexible see-through plastic in a cone shape that can be sealed between the mask and the visor. The closed air space can be pre-sealed to the visor/outer wall of the suit and have a second end fitted with an elastic type band that allows the wearer to attach and detach the closed space by wrapping the band about their face mask. Other embodiments use flat see-through plastic sheets, and sheets that attach about the neck of the user to form the closed air spaces between the face mask and the window visor of the suit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2007
    Assignee: University of Central Florida Research Foundation, Inc.
    Inventors: John P. Holmquist, Alejandro Mancuso, Par Ostberg, Par Axelsson
  • Patent number: 7128070
    Abstract: The invention relates to biological defense masks, and more particularly, biological defense masks designed for use by populations at risk of widespread biological attack via biological weapons of mass destruction. The present invention is also related to methods for using such biological defense masks wherein meteorological data is used to issue advisories with regard to the use of such biological defense masks to a population at risk of biological weapons of mass destruction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Inventors: Stanley L. Wiener, Corey Grove
  • Patent number: 7120940
    Abstract: A helmet is particularly well suited for cold-weather use. The helmet includes a jaw shield that is detachable from a head portion. A breathing mask connects to the jaw shield via a mask adjustment mechanism that selectively axially moves the breathing mask toward and away from an inner surface of the jaw shield to precisely and accurately position the breathing mask against the nose and mouth of the helmet's wearer. A spring-loaded quick-release tinted shield is controlled by a lever that selectively raises and lowers the tinted shield. An eye shield pivotally connects to the helmet and is disposed in front of the tinted shield. An eye shield heating system on the eye shield electrically connects to the head portion of the helmet to provide electric power to the heating system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2006
    Assignee: Bombardier Recreational Products Inc.
    Inventors: Éric Fournier, Gilles Basson, Louis Guay
  • Patent number: 7055521
    Abstract: A ventilated mask for outdoor use is provided having a face mask to protect the wearer against insects and flying debris. The mask covers the user's nose, mouth and cheek area, and has a removable visor to provide protection for the eyes as well. The use of a snap in filter for additional protection against dust or other airborne irritants. The filter is held in place on the user's head by a pair of adjustable elastic straps. Finally, a hinged opening is provided in the mask area by the user's mouth to allow the insertion of game calling devices, drink bottles, straws, and the like, without requiring the user to remove the mask.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Inventor: Ronald A. Johnson
  • Patent number: 7013891
    Abstract: A respirator (1) comprises an inner, oronasal, mask (2) enclosed within an outer, face sealing, mask (3) so as to define a cavity (4) therewith, a screw-threaded air inlet (5) for conducting inhaling air to the interior of the inner mask (2), a filter canister (7) for filtering the inhaling air, and an air outlet (8) for conducting exhaled air from the interior (6) of the inner mask (2). In normal operation, air is inhaled and exhaled solely through the inner mask (2) and so substantially no air pressure differential exists between the ambient atmosphere (9) and the cavity (4) which will allow ambient air to enter the cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Assignee: The Secretary of State for Defense in Her Britannic Majesty's Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
    Inventors: Grant Stuart Richardson, William George Mathers
  • Patent number: 6988500
    Abstract: A face mask having a mask body made of a shaped first material with an opening and a reduced resistance filter material placed within the opening. The reduced resistance filter material permitting air to flow relatively freely there through. In one embodiment one edge of a shield is fixed to the mask body of the face mask and covers the opening and the reduced resistance filter material protecting the opening from liquid splashes and the exhaled air flow from a user downwards, away from the user's eyes. Exhaled air from a user wearing the face mask is caused to relatively freely flow through the reduced resistance filter and to be directed downward preventing the fogging of a user's eyewear. The face mask of the present invention is particularly suited to the medical and dental profession.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2006
    Assignee: J. Palmero Sales Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Duane Cox
  • Patent number: 6983746
    Abstract: Provided are exemplary embodiments of an underwater breathing exhaust system configured to lower the exhalation, effort and to direct water adjacent an exhaust valve to reduce the likelihood of water entering the system and/or gas free flowing from the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2006
    Assignee: Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: William B. Morgan, Connie L. Morgan, Trent M. Schultz, Peter M. Ryan
  • Patent number: 6859946
    Abstract: A helmet is particularly well suited for cold-weather use. The helmet includes a jaw shield that is detachable from a head portion. A breathing mask connects to the jaw shield via a mask adjustment mechanism that selectively axially moves the breathing mask toward and away from an inner surface of the jaw shield to precisely and accurately position the breathing mask against the nose and mouth of the helmet's wearer. A spring-loaded quick-release tinted shield is controlled by a lever that selectively raises and lowers the tinted shield. An eye shield pivotally connects to the helmet and is disposed in front of the tinted shield. An eye shield heating system on the eye shield electrically connects to the head portion of the helmet to provide electric power to the heating system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Assignee: Bombardier Recreational Products Inc.
    Inventors: Éric Fournier, Gilles Basson, Louis Guay
  • Publication number: 20040237962
    Abstract: A personal breathing device for filtering, diffusing, and conditioning air inhaled by a person. The device includes an eyewear frame with an attached nose piece and air-permeable membrane which is positioned to surround the nose and permit normally inhaled volumes of air to pass through the membrane as the air is inhaled, and thereby filter and condition the inhaled air. The device can be conveniently placed on and removed from the face, does not obstruct speech, and is suitable for wearing during a variety of normal daily activities to filter and condition inhaled air. The air permeable membrane can be impregnated with various liquids or other agents to enhance filtering and antimicrobial functions, or to provide cooling, moisturizing, or scenting of the inhaled air. The device can be provided with a detachable air permeable membrane which can be easily replaced as needed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2003
    Publication date: December 2, 2004
    Inventor: James K. Russell
  • Patent number: 6772759
    Abstract: Air-blocking material forms a concentrated passage in a health mask body that covers a user's nose and mouth where air is concentrated and passed through at inhalation and exhalation. Such concentrated passage maintains humidity and preserves heat due to the humid and warm respiration air produced at the time of exhalation. Moreover, frosting of eyeglasses is prevented by ensuring that the hot exhalation air does not flow upwardly when the patient wears eyeglasses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Inventor: Bookyung Lee
  • Publication number: 20030047183
    Abstract: The present invention provides an air-purifying respirator facepiece with a removable, one-piece filter element connector. It also has a removable component housing in the lens as well as a nosecup without inhalation valves that prevents fogging of the portion of the lens used for viewing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2002
    Publication date: March 13, 2003
    Inventors: Eileen A. Kiefer, Mark Cavaliere, Roger P. Wolf, Paul A. Zeller, Klaus Schmidke
  • Patent number: 6520181
    Abstract: A face mask is disclosed that includes a mask portion, a resilient member (e.g., a pillowed web), and, optionally, an adhesive portion. The resilient member and the adhesive portion are alternately positionable between the mask portion and the wearer to inhibit the passage of vapor between the mask and the wearer, which prevents fogging of the wearer's eyewear. A method for using the face mask is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2003
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Nicholas R. Baumann, Shannon L. Dowdell, Matt T. Scholz, Wayne K. Dunshee
  • Patent number: 6463589
    Abstract: A smoke-proof headgear has a headgear body. The headgear body is made of aluminumized oxide fiber cloth. A window is seamed to a predetermined position through a connecting fire-proof wire. The lower side of the window has a filtering piece of a gauze mask and a neck tighter is placed at the inner side of the headgear body. All the components are made of heat-tolerable materials. In use, the user wears the headgear at first; and the filtering piece is used to mask the mouth and nose. A press-able switch adjusts the spanner band to a correct position for preventing smoke from entering into the body so as to protect the head, eyes. and breathing system of the user from being harmed. Moreover, the user breaths through the breathing tube so as not to feel hot and the user may clearly see the situation of the scene of a fire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2002
    Inventor: Chung-Ying Wang
  • Publication number: 20020056450
    Abstract: This invention is an Anti-Fog Mask which is designed to prevent glasses from fogging due to the moist breath from the mouth and nose of the users of glasses in the winter, by a specially designed system that will closely contact the mask with the nose of the user. This particular mask is effective in preventing the moist breath coming out through the upper part of the mask, and its structure is simple and cheap to produce.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2001
    Publication date: May 16, 2002
    Inventor: Kun Woo Lee