Abstract: Speech enhancement apparatus and respirator masks including speech enhancement apparatus, as well as methods of enhancing speech transmission for the wearer of a respirator mask are described herein. In one or more embodiments, the speech enhancement apparatus and methods described herein detect acoustic energy within a first frequency range in the clean air envelope of a respirator mask and deliver compensating acoustic energy outside of the clean air envelope using a speaker. The compensating acoustic energy is, in one or more embodiments, delivered in one or more predetermined attenuated frequency ranges that cover less than all of the detected first frequency range. In one or more embodiments, the compensating acoustic energy may be delivered with an attenuated amplitude profile that uniform or that is non-uniform over the one or more attenuated frequency ranges.

Abstract: A respirator apparatus includes a respirator body, a filter cartridge receiver integral with and extending from the respirator body, and a filter cartridge. The filter cartridge includes a nozzle element being integral with the filter cartridge. The respirator body and filter cartridge are configured to be fluidically coupled through sleeve-fit engagement between the filter cartridge receiver and nozzle element and the filter cartridge receiver and nozzle element define an airflow channel.

Abstract: Speech enhancement apparatus and respirator masks including speech enhancement apparatus, as well as methods of enhancing speech transmission for the wearer of a respirator mask are described herein. In one or more embodiments, the speech enhancement apparatus and methods described herein detect acoustic energy within a first frequency range in the clean air envelope of a respirator mask and deliver compensating acoustic energy outside of the clean air envelope using a speaker. The compensating acoustic energy, in one or more embodiments, exhibits a predetermined attenuated amplitude profile such that the compensating acoustic energy has an amplitude less than 6 dB greater than the acoustic attenuation profile of the mask body over at least 90% of a predetermined attenuated frequency range.

Abstract: This specification discloses an improved voice transmission system for a protective mask. The voice transmission system comprises a speaker assembly and a radio transmitter assembly. The speaker assembly comprises speaker components comprised of a first microphone, an amplifier, a batter and a speaker. The radio transmitter assembly comprises radio transmitter assembly components comprised of a radio transmitter microphone selected from the group consisting of the first microphone of the speaker assembly or an optional second microphone, a radio transmitter switch and a radio transmitter. The improvement comprises a radio transmitter communication connection from the radio transmitter switch to at least one device selected from the speaker assembly components which prevents the speaker assembly from emitting a sound from the speaker when the radio transmitter switch allows the radio transmitter to transmit an electronic signal converted from a signal originating from the radio transmitter microphone.

Abstract: A method of communicating with an underwater vehicle comprising a propulsion system for propelling the vehicle through the water. A series of data sets are encoded and transmitted to the underwater vehicle in a series of signal bursts, and decoded at the underwater vehicle. The propulsion system is operated in a series of thrust pulses separated by drift periods such that the propulsion system operates at a relatively high rate during the thrust pulses and at a relatively low (or zero) rate during the drift periods. The drift periods are timed such that each signal burst arrives at the underwater vehicle during a drift period and not during a thrust pulse. The method may be performed with a single vehicle or a plurality of underwater vehicles. The encoded data signals are broadcast simultaneously to the underwater vehicles in the series of signal bursts.

Abstract: A mask for achieving positive pressure mechanical ventilation (inclusive of CPAP, ventilator support, critical care ventilation, emergency applications), and a method for a operating a ventilation system including such mask. The mask includes a piloted exhalation valve that is used to achieve the target pressures/flows to the patient. The pilot for the valve may be pneumatic and driven from the gas supply tubing from the ventilator. The pilot may also be a preset pressure derived in the mask, a separate pneumatic line from the ventilator, or an electro-mechanical control. The mask of the present invention may further include a heat and moisture exchanger (HME) which is integrated therein.

Abstract: A face mask (10) for a patient undergoing a sedated endoscopic procedure. The face mask (10) includes at least one of a duct or an aperture (16, 17) to provide positive airway pressure to the nose, a bite block (18) with an opening therein (20) and a one-way valve (22). The one-way valve (22) has an open position, allowing passage of an endoscopic device therethrough and into the opening (20), and a closed position substantially sealing the opening (20).

Abstract: An interface system for use in providing a flow of pressurized gas to a patient. The interface system comprises a mask (18) structured to engage a nasal and/or oral orifice of a patient, a conduit (16) coupled to the mask, and a valve mechanism (20) operatively coupled to the mask or the conduit. The conduit is structured to communicate the flow of pressurized gas to the mask. The valve mechanism is structured to selectively impede the flow of pressurized gas to the patient and is actuated by the patient, thus allowing the patient to speak without interference from the flow of pressurized gas.

Abstract: A portable wireless charging system is incorporated inside a carrying device that has a plurality of walls and an interior. The portable wireless charging system has a transmitter positioned at a first fixed location at an inner surface of one of the walls, a mobile power supply positioned adjacent the transmitter and electrically coupled to the transmitter, and a receiver positioned at a second fixed location at an outer surface of the one of walls, with the second fixed location aligned with the first fixed location. A barrier is positioned between the transmitter and the receiver, and a first pocket positioned at the outer surface about the second fixed location. A portable device that includes a battery to be charged can be retained inside the first pocket to be charged.

Abstract: Face masks that can be used, for example, in medical and surgical procedures, including both completely or partially disposable and reusable masks, that can be custom fitted to the wearer, and which can include one or more filtering inhalation and exhalation valves and/or compartments allowing for separated filtering of inhalation and exhalation gases. Some embodiments include systems, methods and kits for reducing contaminants in an inhalation and exhalation flow stream.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are a maritime communication apparatus and method. The maritime communication apparatus includes a land-based network communication unit, a maritime network communication unit, and a communication control unit. The land-based network communication unit communicates with a land-based communication network. The maritime network communication unit communicates with a maritime communication network. The communication control unit links the communication of the land-based network communication unit with the communication of the maritime network communication unit in accordance with a destination address of data provided by any one of the land-based network communication unit and the maritime network communication unit.

Abstract: A strap retaining device having an actuation arm that may engage a retaining tab is provided. In an exemplary embodiment, the strap retaining device includes a frame, a retention tab pivotally connected to the frame, and an actuation arm connected to the frame and having a first actuation element movable towards the retention tab from a neutral position to an actuated. The first actuation ramp is movable in a first plane to cause the retention tab to move in a second plane that is perpendicular to the first plane.

Abstract: A strap retaining device having an actuation arm that may engage a retaining tab is provided. In an exemplary embodiment, the strap retaining device includes a frame, a retention tab pivotally connected to the frame, and an actuation arm connected to the frame and having a first actuation element movable towards the retention tab from a neutral position to an actuated. The first actuation ramp is movable in a first plane to cause the retention tab to move in a second plane that is perpendicular to the first plane.

Abstract: The invention relates to a gas regulating valve (1) for a respiratory system comprising: —a main path between an inlet (2) and an outlet (3), and —an evacuation path between the outlet (3) and an evacuation orifice (4), characterized in that: —the main path is provided with at least a non-return valve for preventing gas to circulate from the outlet (3) to the inlet (2), and —the evacuation path is provided with an obstructing membrane (10) arranged and designed for being deformed by gas from the inlet (2) to partially or fully obstruct the evacuation path. The invention also relates to a mask integrating such gas regulating valve, and to a respiratory system also comprising such gas regulating valve.

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.

Abstract: A respiratory protection device is provided that allows the wearers of a facepiece to smoothly have a conversation with each other. A respiratory protection device includes a facepiece. The protection device also includes a voice amplifier that includes a microphone and a speaker therein, a detection unit that directly or indirectly detects the inner pressure of the facepiece, a power source unit, and a control unit. The control unit controls so as to place the voice amplifier in an operational state or a non-operational state, based on a result of comparison of information from the detection unit with a determination reference in the control unit.

Abstract: Ergonomic protective air filtration devices and methods for manufacturing the same are disclosed herein. An ergonomic protective air filtration device includes a stack of at least two layers of an air permeable material, the stack forming a body, a periphery, and a back; a plurality of intersecting three-dimensional V-shaped pleats extending from the periphery and into the stack of layers, so the back of the device defines a breathing chamber adapted to cover a mouth and a nose of the wearer; and a retaining means engaging the body of the device to secure the device to a face of the wearer and to create the breathing chamber. The ergonomic protective air filtration device provides protection against contaminated droplets, fluid splashes, solid particulates, pathogenic microorganisms, or aerosoled air pollutions.

Abstract: A respirator system includes a facepiece, a communication system and a control system in operative connection with the communication system. The control system is adapted to control voice transmittal via the communication system based at least in part upon measurement of a variable other than sound. The variable is related to speech of a user of the facepiece. The variable may, for example, be related to respiration of the user.

Abstract: Speech enhancement apparatus and respirator masks including speech enhancement apparatus, as well as methods of enhancing speech transmission for the wearer of a respirator mask are described herein. In one or more embodiments, the speech enhancement apparatus and methods described herein detect acoustic energy within a first frequency range in the clean air envelope of a respirator mask and deliver compensating acoustic energy outside of the clean air envelope using a speaker. The compensating acoustic energy, in one or more embodiments, exhibits a predetermined attenuated amplitude profile such that the compensating acoustic energy has an amplitude less than 6 dB greater than the acoustic attenuation profile of the mask body over at least 90% of a predetermined attenuated frequency range.

Abstract: Speech enhancement apparatus and respirator masks including speech enhancement apparatus, as well as methods of enhancing speech transmission for the wearer of a respirator mask are described herein. In one or more embodiments, the speech enhancement apparatus and methods described herein detect acoustic energy within a first frequency range in the clean air envelope of a respirator mask and deliver compensating acoustic energy outside of the clean air envelope using a speaker. The compensating acoustic energy is, in one or more embodiments, delivered in one or more predetermined attenuated frequency ranges that cover less than all of the detected first frequency range. In one or more embodiments, the compensating acoustic energy may be delivered with an attenuated amplitude profile that uniform or that is non-uniform over the one or more attenuated frequency ranges.

Abstract: A Respirator-Attachable Lamp Unit. The lamp unit is attachable to a conventional respirator mask or gas mask without obstructing the mask or modifying its operation. The lamp unit, once installed, provides the user with a hands-free light source. The lamp unit may be formed in a horseshoe-shaped housing having a translucent front lens surrounding the speech module of the mask. An external power source may be provided for extended use situations. A user is able to select from a variety of wavelengths for the light emitted from the lamp unit. LED light elements are one type of light source employed by the lamp unit.

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.

Abstract: A headgear (200) for a respiratory mask (202) of a ventilator or CPAP device is provided. The headgear includes a strap portion (204, 206) formed of a substantially inextensible material. The strap portion has formed on one end thereof a connecting structure configured to connect to a mask of the ventilator or CPAP device. One advantage is that the mask will not or at least will be less inclined to lift off the face as mask pressure is increased.

Abstract: A respiratory mask assembly for delivering breathable gas to a patient includes a frame and a headgear assembly removably attachable to the frame. The headgear assembly includes a pair of side portions and a rear portion that interconnects the pair of side portions. The pair of side portions includes at least one strap. The rear portion has at least one strap constructed of at least two layers of material. One of the layers of material has a more rigid construction than the other of the layers of material to resist compression of the at least one strap of the rear portion in a first direction which resists movement of the at least one strap of the pair of side straps in the first direction.

Abstract: The adjustable mouth shield device provides an adjustably fitted mouth shield with adjustable headband for secure fit. The adjustable headband is fastened to the padded earpiece. The straight first extension from the earpiece is angled downwardly and forwardly to terminate in a swivel joint providing almost 360 degrees of swivel. The second extension is arced both downwardly and forwardly. The u-shaped mouthpiece is fitted to the adjustable spring mount for horizontal pivot of the mouthpiece. The mouthpiece may, by virtue of the swivel joint and the spring mount, be moved completely away from a user's mouth and, in turn, pivoted and swiveled to be directly in front of the user's mouth. The inward curves at the distal end of the mouthpiece aid in sliding on the disposable pads that shield a user from objects, foods and other materials.

Abstract: A pressure activated remote microphone is provided within a communication system (100). A face mask (102) incorporates a remote microphone (118) and one or more pressure sensor(s) (122). When a user puts on the mask (102), the remote microphone (118) is enabled in response to the pressure sensed by the pressure sensors (122). When the mask (102) is removed, the remote microphone (118) is disabled in response to the change in pressure sensed by the pressure sensor(s) (122).

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a system, apparatus and methods for underwater voice communication by a diver to other divers and surface ships. In many embodiments, the system includes a mouthpiece voice communication apparatus having a microphone for sensing the diver's voice and an acoustic transducer that conducts sound via conduction through the diver's teeth and skull to the cochlea so as to allow the diver to hear sounds. The mouthpiece is adapted to be easily attached to portions of a SCUBA or other underwater breathing apparatus. It may also be attached to or integral with a snorkel or similar apparatus.

Abstract: A conjoined tube within a tube located inside a lower section of a snorkel designed to steer water droplets away from the snorkel diver's breathing path. The lower section of the snorkel has two valves. One is the scupper valve positioned at the lowest point of the inside tube. The scupper valve is a light duty valve or a low resistance one-way watertight passage intended to allow droplets of water to drain into the main reservoir. The outer tube lower section contains a reservoir for holding residual water that travels down to the bottom of the snorkel and is contained therein. During the normal clearing operation, the reservoir can be emptied and water will exit out of the lower section and into the surrounding water.

Abstract: A valve arrangement interposed between a compressor and a user, in a respiratory pressure support system. A connecting element connects a breathing tube to a human interface apparatus. A shutter is formed within the connecting element. The shutter is placed in a first position allowing pressurized air to flow from the compressor to the user. This shutter is placed in a second position preventing pressurized air from flowing from the compressor to the user.

Abstract: A sensor support arm, adapted for use with a breathing mask such that the arm is extendable underneath a sealing surface of a breathing mask is disclosed. The arm is adaptable at one end for fixing on to equipment worn by a user, having a sensor disposed at an opposing end positionable in the interior of a breathing mask. The arm has lead connections necessary for the sensor extending along the arm. The arm has a greater width than thickness and comprises a flexible material such that it is flexible about both longitudinal and transverse axes. The arm is provided with a substantially planar side. A breathing mask having a freely self-supporting sensor arm is also disclosed.

Abstract: A respiratory mask assembly for delivering breathable gas to a patient includes a frame and a headgear assembly removably attachable to the frame. The headgear assembly includes a pair of side portions and a rear portion that interconnects the pair of side portions. The pair of side portions includes at least one strap. The rear portion has at least one strap constructed of at least two layers of material. One of the layers of material has a more rigid construction than the other of the layers of material to resist compression of the at least one strap of the rear portion in a first direction which resists movement of the at least one strap of the pair of side straps in the first direction.

Abstract: The full face flexible oxygen mask for use with flight helmets includes an elastic face seal with an oronasal cone that seals around the nose and mouth of the wearer, and flexible sealing flaps along the perimeter of the face seal to adapt the face piece of the mask to seal against the surface of a flight helmet. The mask face piece has two large sealing surfaces or channels down each side of the mask that overlap and flex to adapt to seal to a variety of flight helmets. The top of the face seal has an inner and outer flap that work together to seal the exposed face visible between the sides of the flight helmet.

Abstract: A modular helmet-mask assembly for protecting a user's head and face from hazards such as from chemical and biological warfare agents. The invention includes an impact resistant helmet; a face protection assembly, which can be attached and detached from the helmet; and a transparent, impact resistant lens. The face protection assembly includes an impact resistant face protection shell with a vision port, through which the transparent lens can be positioned; a flexible nosecup assembly positioned to engage the mouth and nose of the user, which also includes a breathe-through airflow assembly and filter unit; and a flexible face seal which surrounds the nosecup assembly and lens and engages the face of the user. An adjustable head harness is attached to the shell or face seal, for adjustably securing the face seal and nosecup to the user's face to maximize comfort and protection while preventing fogging of the lens.

Abstract: A filter mask includes an oronasal cup, an inhalation directional cover, and an exhalation diverter body. The oronasal cup encloses a nose and mouth of a user. The oronasal cup is fluidly coupled with a filter. The inhalation directional cover is configured to be joined to the filter. The inhalation directional cover includes an elongated wing portion that is oriented in an inhalation direction that is angled with respect to the center axis of the filter. The exhalation diverter body is fluidly coupled with the oronasal cup. The exhalation diverter body defines an exhalation duct that directs exhaled air out of the oronasal cup along an exhalation direction. The inhalation direction and the exhalation direction are oriented away from a plane of interaction between the user and another person.

Abstract: A safety device integrated into a respiratory system that includes an oxygen mask having a cup-shaped rigid portion overlying a face mating portion to define a respiratory envelope that is adapted to sealingly engage over the mouth and nose of a user. An integrated control circuit includes an externally mounted connection block and a circuit looping through the respiratory envelope. A hands-free, mouth-activated switch is located within the cup-shaped rigid portion and is electrically coupled to the control circuit.

Abstract: A facemask snorkel is disclosed. An illustrative embodiment of the facemask snorkel includes a facemask having a facemask interior, a snorkel disposed in pneumatic communication with the facemask interior and a resilient mouth seal disposed in pneumatic communication with the facemask interior.

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.

Abstract: A respiratory device includes a face seal and a unitary body that forms an interface with the face seal and includes a lens and a chassis. The chassis includes at least one port for fluidic connection.

Abstract: An adapter for testing an outlet valve of a protective mask with a testing apparatus includes portions which oppose the valve and are configured to connect the valve to the tester in sufficient isolation for testing purposes. In one implementation, the valve has first and second notches configured to engage corresponding non-uniform geometries in an interference fit. In still further implementations, the adapter comprises an overmold with a resiliently compressible surface conformed to mate with the outlet valve and an insert at least partly encapsulated by the overmold and providing support to the resilient compression of the surface of the overmold. In use, the portions of the adapter engaging corresponding locations on the valve to be tested form an interference fit.

Abstract: An improved respiratory protective mask providing for several novelty features. In some embodiments a sealing member is provided with a skin contacting facet including a multiplicity of protruding ridges. In some embodiments a multi stage valve assembly is provided for blocking of intake of unfiltered ambient air. The valve contains two serially disposed valves defining a cavity. The cavity blocks residual amount of ambient air. In some embodiments a protective hood is provided, made of a modified fabric which enables aeration and dehumidification.

Abstract: A microphone adaptor for a respirator is provided which has a sound tube that extends between a speech projector of the respirator and a microphone enabling clear speech to be received by the microphone. The adaptor may include a microphone box for receiving the microphone, preferably a headset boom microphone of a standard issue headset.

Abstract: A voice amplifier for attachment to a mask has a sound reflector that faces outwardly of the mask when the voice amplifier is attached to the mask. A speaker faces inwards towards the sound reflector. Sound waves emanate from the speaker inward towards the sound reflector, reflect off the sound reflector and exit the voice amplifier through an outer peripheral gap and travel outwardly from the mask. The voice amplifier has an on/off switch mounted on the front of the voice amplifier. The voice amplifier cover has a front wall with a front surface facing away from the mask. The narrow end of the speaker is located closer to the front wall of the cover than the wide end. The cover front wall follows the profile of the speaker in a direction from the narrow end to the wide end of the speaker.

Abstract: A method includes the steps of sensing pressure changes inside a mask of a user; and electronically controlling a function related to the mask or electronically making a determination related to the user on the basis of the sensed pressure changes. The sensor may be a solid state pressure sensor that is inside the mask and not associated with the mask regulator. The function may be microphone control stress level monitoring, mask integrity monitoring, or estimating of remaining tank air, as examples.

Abstract: A safety device integrated into a respiratory system that includes an oxygen mask having a cup-shaped rigid portion overlying a face mating portion to define a respiratory envelope that is adapted to sealingly engage over the mouth and nose of a user. An integrated control circuit includes an externally mounted connection block and a circuit looping through the respiratory envelope. A hands-free, mouth-activated switch is located within the cup-shaped rigid portion and is electrically coupled to the control circuit.

Abstract: An adapter assembly for releasably supporting lapel mic on a mask includes a mask adapter for mounting on the mask, and a lapel adapter for mounting on the lapel mic. The lapel adapter is releasably connectable with the mask adapter to support the lapel mic on the mask. The adapter assembly has a sound opening that enables sound to pass from a voice emitter of the mask to the microphone of the lapel mic. The lapel connector of the lapel mic is accessible through the adapter assembly when the adapter assembly is connected with the lapel mic. The invention also relates to a method comprising the steps of attaching a lapel adapter to a lapel mic, attaching a mask adapter to a mask, and connecting the lapel mic to the mask.

Abstract: A respirator speech transmitter and exhalation valve module comprising a resilient exhalation valve having a low airflow resistance for exhalation but providing a secure seal against inadvertent inhalation through the exhalation valve module. An exhalation airflow channel is formed between a module body on the outside of the channel and a conical airflow guide and the exhalation valve on the inside of the channel. The exhalation airflow channel is in the form of an amplification horn. The airflow channel produces a smooth airflow for unrestricted exhalation and high intelligibility of a user's speech. The module includes a drinking conduit for selectively fluidly connecting a mouthpiece in the respirator to a beverage container and further includes an electrical communication block with internal and external fittings for connecting a microphone in the mask to a radio or amplifier carried by the mask user.

Abstract: A speech transmission adapter for use with a respirator mask. The respirator mask has an associated clean air source and defines a clean air envelope between the body of the respirator mask and the face of the wearer and is bounded by a sealing portion of the respirator mask, the clean air source, and an exhalation port. The speech transmission adapter comprises a peripheral housing, a speech reception device supported by the peripheral housing, a speech transmitter coupled to the speech reception device, and a port defined in the peripheral structure for enabling the passage of air therethrough. The peripheral housing is adapted to mate to the respirator mask in a manner that expands the clean air envelope defined therein to include the speech reception means within the clean air envelope without requiring structural modification to the respirator mask.

Abstract: Oxygen breathing masks with a sound pickup device. A microphone capsule of the sound pick-up device is positioned at the base of a mouth-piece whose aperture is placed just before the mask user's mouth. Such a mask may find particular application for aircraft pilots.

Abstract: An air filtration system and a helmet for use in the air filtration system are disclosed and utilized to filter air between a head and body of a user and an external environment. The air filtration system and helmet include inner and outer shells that define an air flow channel for channeling air about the user. A fan module is mounted between the inner and outer shells and a scroll housing is mounted adjacent the fan module. The scroll housing includes an air inlet for drawing air into the air filtration system and helmet, and at least one air outlet to distribute air flow to the air flow channel. The helmet includes air exits at front and rear sections that are in fluid communication with the air flow channel and the air outlet or outlets. The air filtration system includes a gown operating as a filter for filtering the air.

Abstract: A microphone adaptor for a respirator is provided which has a sound tube that extends between a speech projector of the respirator and a microphone enabling clear speech to be received by the microphone. The adaptor may include a microphone box for receiving the microphone, preferably a headset boom microphone of a standard issue headset.