Abstract: A powered air purifying respirator includes an inlet air filter; a flow generator configured to cause air from an ambient environment to flow through the inlet air filter and elevate pressure of the air to above ambient conditions; a mask in fluid communication with the flow generator and configured to fit tightly against a user's face or neck for delivery of the air to the user at the elevated pressure; and a one-way outlet valve configured to allow air exhaled by the user to be vented to the ambient environment. An outlet filter may be included to filter the air flowing through the one-way valve, and the outlet filter may be retrofit. The outlet filter may be preferred when filtration of both inlet and outlet air is desirable.

Abstract: The present invention relates to improvements to powered air purifying respirators (PAPR). PAPR are known generally for use in polluted environments. A typical PAPR comprises a powered impellor arranged to draw air from the atmosphere, a filter element and a mask to provide the filtered and pressurized air to the user. Embodiments of the present invention place a generator unit, comprising a filter and impellor for pressurizing the air, behind the head of the user, and include components for improving delivery of the air to the user and improving its quality.

Abstract: A respirator system includes a respirator with an air filter, a flow generator with a sensorless DC motor, a mask, a processor, a sensor, an electric power source, and a wireless transceiver. The respirator filters air, increase the pressure of the air, delivers the air to the mask at a pressure above ambient, gathers data with the sensor about operation of the respirator, and transmits the data. An intermediate electronic device is separate and remote from the respirator, and is configured to receive the transmitted data process the data, and re-transmit the data. A computer receives the data, processes the data and generates at least one report regarding the respirator or a user of the respirator.

Abstract: A filter assembly for a breathing apparatus, such as a powered air purifying respirator. The filter assembly includes a frame for receiving and retaining a filter element, a cover connected to the frame and dimensioned to cover the aperture, a filter element, and an indicator for indicating when the filter element is retained in the filter frame and the cover is arranged across the aperture. A powered breathing apparatus including the filter assembly is also disclosed.