Abstract: A buckle assembly for selectively connecting first and second straps of a personal protective device. The buckle assembly includes a receiver member and a latch member configured for coupling to a respective one of the straps. The receiver member defines a slot and provides a release arm. The latch member includes a latch tab pivotally connected to a base. In a latched state in which the latch member is disposed within the slot and a latch face is engaged with a capture surface. The release arm disposed over a portion of the latch tab. The latch face can be disengaged from the capture surface in response to an actuation force applied to the release arm. In some embodiments, the receiver member and the latch member incorporate various, complimentary guide surfaces that promote easy insertion of the latch member into the receiver member.

Abstract: A respiratory mask body defining a first chamber and a second chamber is provided. In an exemplary embodiment, the mask body includes one or more inlet ports adapted to receive one or more breathing air source components in communication with the first chamber and a fluid intake communication component allows communication of air from the first chamber to the second chamber during inhalation by a wearer.

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: 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: A respirator device having an elastomeric sleeve is provided. In an exemplary embodiment, a respirator device as described herein includes a body including a receiver having an elastomeric sleeve and a filter cartridge that includes a rigid nozzle element. The elastomeric sleeve defines a channel, and the elastomeric sleeve is configured to deform around the nozzle element when the nozzle element is inserted into the channel.

Abstract: A filtering device 10 that includes a housing 12 having a plurality of subsections 32, 34, and 36 where each subsection is adapted to receive a filter element 26, 28, and 30. An inlet 18 is disposed at a first location on the housing 12, and an upstream air distribution system is placed in fluid communication with the inlet 18 and with each of the subsections 32, 34, and 36. A downstream air distribution system is located in fluid communication with each subsection 32, 34, and 36, and an outlet 20 in fluid communication with the downstream air distribution system. The upstream and downstream air distribution systems are constructed to cause the same airflow velocity through each subsection. Using such a construction, overall product service life may be increased while minimizing pressure resistance of the total filter.