Abstract: A filter housing for use with a protective mask or other personal protective equipment is described including a base, a top, a sidewall connecting the top and the base, and a void that houses a filter medium or a filter medium cannister. The housing also includes an inlet with an inlet opening for receiving ambient gas into the container, an outlet including an outlet opening for discharging gas from the container to the protective mask, and an interface for removably securing the filter housing to the protective mask or other personal protective equipment. The base may include a concave surface substantially surrounding the opening and the interface, and a space between the void and the concave surface of the base may be partitioned by a plurality of members connected at least partially to the base or the sidewall and define a substantially planar surface facing the void.

Abstract: A modular powered air purifying respirator (PAPR) is provided including one or more of a first inlet configured to receive an ambient gas; a gas filter in fluid communication with the first inlet and configured to filter the ambient gas; a blower configured to boost at least one of a flow rate or a pressure of the ambient gas entering and/or exiting the gas filter; a second and independent inlet configured to receive a non-ambient gas; a first outlet configured to selectively provide a breathing gas to a user from the ambient gas or the non-ambient gas; and/or a controller and switching device configured to select the source of the breathing gas between the first inlet and the second inlet. Embodiments may also include a power source for the blower.

Abstract: A breath responsive filter blower respirator system for a gas mask including a pressure and control device, such as an optoelectric device and/or a pressure sensor, to control the air flow produced by an air blower. The optoelectric device detects the position of the mask's outflow valve. The pressure sensor measures air pressure in the mask relative to ambient air or the absolute air pressure in the mask. During exhalation, the pressure detector detects an increase in air pressure in the mask and/or the optoelectric device detects the outflow valve in an open position, and then signals the central processing unit to signal the air blower to reduce speed. The reduction in speed reduces air flow in the mask and lowers air pressure in the mask.

Abstract: A communication system and method utilizing an infrared signal emitter communicating a predefined signal, and an infrared signal receiver capable of receiving such predefined signal, distinguishing such predefined signal within a field of view of the infrared signal receiver, and providing output indicating the location of the infrared signal emitter within the field of view of the infrared signal receiver.

Abstract: A system for regulating the airflow to a closed environment using feedback control for the position of a control valve and blower speed. The system provides a control apparatus that regulates airflow to a closed environment, such as the mask of a breathing apparatus, to ensure sufficient breathing air for a wearer of such mask. In order to provide fast response to a change in condition in the breathable environment, the airflow regulator includes a valve control and a blower control.

Abstract: According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a partition system includes a flexible partition expandable along at least its length and its height, at least one support element associated with the partition, and a fluid delivery system associated with the partition and configured to deliver a fluid to a space adjacent to the partition.

Abstract: An assembly line for manufacturing filter canisters is disclosed. The method for assembling filter canisters provides a unique serial number for each canister and a database that associates the component lot numbers, activated charcoal weight, and quality assurance test results with the serial number for the filter canister. The manufacturing method can be adapted for assembly of canisters with activated charcoal and an aerosol HEPA filter, canisters with activated charcoal only, and canisters with an aerosol HEPA filter only. Some embodiments can also enable different testing conditions and specifications, activated charcoal loading requirements, labeling specifications, and packaging requirements.

Abstract: A marking system that allows remote observations of visual and infrared electromagnetic signatures emitted from a distinctive marker panel. A kit employing such panels is particularly suitable for military environments, which, in turn, enhances the survivability of military equipment. The marking system preferably provides a signature in the mid and far infrared and near infrared portions of the electromagnetic spectrum, such that the electromagnetic radiation can be observed by a pilot in an approaching moving object such as a plane, helicopter, or land vehicle that is equipped with a thermal imaging system or light intensifier device, even in adverse environmental conditions. In varying embodiments, the marking system may be used as a landing marker, a bore sight panel, and an identification panel. Utilization of passive infrared material enables use of such marking system when external power is unavailable.