Having Valve, Or Valve Control, Structure Patents (Class 128/201.28)
  • Patent number: 11813398
    Abstract: A pressure indicator for a respiratory treatment device, the pressure indicator including an instrument for measuring pressures, a conduit configured to transmit a pressure within the respiratory treatment device to the instrument, and a pressure stabilizer orifice positioned within the conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2023
    Assignee: Trudell Medical International
    Inventors: Neritan Alizoti, Chris Dobson, James Schmidt
  • Patent number: 11655036
    Abstract: A protective hood for air travel including a plurality of deformable partitions coupled to each other defining an inner cavity, wherein in a folded position the inner cavity is collapsed to a negligible size and in an unfolded position the inner cavity is configured to comfortably confine an human head, wherein one of the partitions includes a deformable opening configured to be stretched and fit over a head, and at least one coupling mechanism configured to attach one of the deformable partitions to an aircraft seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2021
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2023
    Inventor: Hans Huijsing
  • Patent number: 11433206
    Abstract: An isolation hood for respiratory treatment is disclosed. The isolation hood may include a head enclosure defining an interior volume configured to receive the head of a patient, and a neck seal configured to couple the head enclosure to a neck of the patient. The isolation hood may include an inlet port configured to be coupled to a distal end of a treatment source tube and to a first end of a treatment delivery tube, and an outlet port configured to be coupled to an inline particle filter configured to permit air to flow through the head enclosure. The neck seal and the inline particle filter are each configured to prevent viral/bacterial aerosolization outside the hood. The inlet and outlet ports may be attached to respiratory tubing and non-invasive ventilatory equipment to permit aerosol-generating procedures within the hood while preventing viral/bacterial aerosolization outside the hood.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2021
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2022
    Inventor: Darren Peter Mareiniss
  • Patent number: 11097847
    Abstract: An oxygen supply device for an aircraft has a reaction tank for chemical oxygen generation and a pressurized tank filled with oxygen. The oxygen supply device also has an energy converter for converting thermal energy into electrical energy and also a control unit for setting a first amount of oxygen, provided by the reaction tank to a consumer unit, and a second amount of oxygen, provided by the pressurized tank to the consumer unit. The energy converter is designed to convert a thermal energy, generated by the chemical oxygen generation in the reaction tank, into electrical energy and to provide the electrical energy. The control unit is designed to set the second amount of oxygen, provided by the pressurized tank to the consumer unit, by using the electrical energy provided by the energy converter. The invention also relates to a method for supplying a passenger cabin of an aircraft with oxygen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2021
    Inventors: Frank Leuenberger, Carsten Neumann
  • Patent number: 11040225
    Abstract: A system and a method for providing a secondary source of breathing gas to a mask are disclosed. The system includes secondary reservoir having a breathing gas, the secondary reservoir connected to a primary line by a secondary line. A pressure switch detects a pressure in the primary line and, upon a pressure lower than a threshold, actuates an actuator to permit the flow of breathing gas from the secondary reservoir through the secondary line. A valve may be configured to prevent a flow of gas from the secondary line to a source side of the primary line. The method includes detecting gas pressure and actuating an actuator upon a low gas pressure to permit a flow of secondary gas to the breathing mask by way of a secondary line. The gas may be prevented from flowing from the secondary line to a source side of the primary line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2021
    Assignee: AVOX Systems Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph J. Contino, Duard Bennett
  • Patent number: 11000714
    Abstract: There is disclosed breathing apparatus equipment which may be in the form of a waist mountable manifold. The breathing apparatus equipment comprises a manifold having a manifold inlet port for a source of breathable gas and at least one manifold outlet port for delivering breathable gas to a user. The equipment further comprises a strap arranged to be worn by the user, and a holder coupled to the strap and having a socket. The socket is configured such that the manifold can be removably located within the socket in multiple orientations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2021
    Assignee: DRAEGER SAFETY UK LIMITED
    Inventor: Paul Nicholas Townsend
  • Patent number: 11000668
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an expiratory valve (10) of a ventilation device (100), comprising a valve body (12) having a fluid inlet (14) and a fluid outlet (16) for breathing air of a patient formed therein, said valve body (12) comprising a support (42) having a top side (46) on which a valve membrane (20) can be placed with an abutment area formed at the outer edge thereof, with the top side (46) of the support (42) having an uneven design.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2021
    Assignee: HAMILTON MEDICAL AG
    Inventors: Felix Breitruck, Dino De-Stefani
  • Patent number: 10952639
    Abstract: A mask configured to be attached to the face of a subject includes a wall section that defines an internal space and covers at least a portion of a nose and a mouth of the subject, an expired gas introduction section that is disposed in the internal space and introduce the subject's expired gas, and a communication section defining a communication channel through which the subject's expired gas introduced from the expired gas introduction section is introduced into an expired gas concentration detection sensor. The position of the expired gas introduction section in the internal space is variable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2021
    Assignee: NIHON KOHDEN CORPORATION
    Inventor: Masayuki Inoue
  • Patent number: 10859183
    Abstract: The present invention is an anti-entanglement knob for a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) air cylinder valve, in which broadly comprises of an end terminating into a tapered shape on the side opposite from the SCBA air cylinder valve, and a guide/guard desirably located to guide objects to the tapered shape end, while also guarding undesired objects from entering between one or multiple components of the present invention and SCBA components. The present invention prevents entanglement by eliminating catching points and open areas that undesired objects, most commonly wires would usually be able to contact; furthermore objects are guided over and away from the present invention and the area of the SCBA that it is applied too.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2020
    Inventor: Chad Joseph Shaffer
  • Patent number: 10654593
    Abstract: A pressure control system includes at least one tank storing a mixture of oxygen and nitrogen. The system further includes a first branch of a pressure control line configured to transport a first portion of the mixture of oxygen and nitrogen to a pressurized enclosed volume. The system also includes a second branch of the pressure control line configured to transport a second portion of the mixture of oxygen and nitrogen to at least one flight suit removably coupled to the second branch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2020
    Assignee: THE BOEING COMPANY
    Inventors: Dennis Veselka, John B. Lauger, Brian R. Dunaway, Daniel J. Leonard
  • Patent number: 10398872
    Abstract: A mouthpiece for controlled delivery of a breathing gas including oxygen, preferably an increased ratio of oxygen with respect to ambient air, to the respiratory tracts of a user which includes a valve having two modes: a closed default mode, which substantially impedes any flow of the breathing gas through the valve; and an active open mode, which allows for a substantial flow of the breathing gas through the valve, wherein the open mode can be activated by the user manipulating the valve with his/her mouth. Such a valve may be used in a device for delivery of breathing gas and in an apparatus for controlled delivery of the breathing gas to the respiratory tracts of a user. A method for controlled delivery of the breathing gas to the respiratory tracts of a user may include operating the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2019
    Assignee: ResMed R&D Germany GmbH
    Inventor: Stefan Thomas Schätzl
  • Patent number: 10328293
    Abstract: A breathing equipment training device and a method for breathing training using a breathing equipment training device. The breathing equipment training device includes a shell and a diaphragm. The shell includes a first opening and a second opening, the first opening configured to be inserted into a breathing opening in a mask to form a connection with the breathing opening of the mask, and the second opening configured to be exposed to ambient air. The diaphragm is positioned in an inner cavity of the shell about the second opening, and configured to impede airflow into the shell through the second opening and to traverse along an axis between the first and second openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: Blast Mask, LLC
    Inventors: Justin Clayton Dickstein, Michael R. Moussa, Stephen Hilton Savoie
  • Patent number: 10137320
    Abstract: A respirator has a shell that defines a breathable air zone for a user wearing the respirator. An air flow control system for the respirator has an air delivery conduit within the shell of the respirator, a valve member moveable relative to the air delivery conduit and within the shell to vary the amount of air flow through the air delivery conduit, and a valve actuator outside of the shell of the respirator. The valve actuator is manipulatable by a user of the respirator while wearing the respirator to control movement of the valve member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2018
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Garry J. Walker, Andrew Murphy, Desmond T. Curran, Derek A. Parkin, Thomas I. Insley, Mark A. J. Fernandes
  • Patent number: 10137274
    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: May 18, 2017
    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: 9956439
    Abstract: An apparatus, breathing equipment training device, and method for breathing equipment training. The apparatus includes a shell and a diaphragm. The shell includes a first opening and a second opening. The first opening is configured to be inserted into a breathing opening in a mask to form a connection with the breathing opening of the mask. The diaphragm is inside the shell and positioned about the second opening. The diaphragm is configured to impede airflow into the shell through the second opening. The first opening can be defined by a first ellipse insertable into the breathing opening of the mask. The second opening can be defined by a second ellipse through which airflow enters into the shell. A diameter of the second ellipse can be greater than a diameter of the first ellipse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2018
    Assignee: Blast Mask, LLC
    Inventors: Justin Clayton Dickstein, Michael R. Moussa, Stephen Hilton Savoie
  • Patent number: 9776740
    Abstract: An aircraft is capable of passing from the aerial domain to the spatial domain and method for automatically adapting the configuration of same. An additional breathable gas supply is provided to be activated only during a flight phase during which aerobic propulsion is interrupted, and is capable of supplying the control system of the manned cabin environment instead of the system associated with the aerobic propulsion means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2017
    Assignee: AIRBUS DEFENCE AND SPACE SAS
    Inventors: Eugénio Ferreira, Christophe Chavagnac
  • Patent number: 9550575
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for supplying and managing oxygen suited for use on-board an aircraft for providing breathable oxygen to pilots and cockpit crew. Components of the system work together to optimize oxygen utilization while reducing costs from maintenance and added weight of traditional pressurized gaseous cylinders. Components include a rapid oxygen supply for immediate use in emergency situations, an on-board oxygen generator (OBOG), a controller, a pulsed oxygen delivery subsystem that detects inhale/exhale phases and adapts to physiological requirements, and a breathing mask for each pilot and cockpit crew member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: B/E Aerospace, Inc.
    Inventors: Girish S. Kshirsagar, Detlev Degenhardt, Ashraf Sherif
  • Patent number: 9421122
    Abstract: Disclosed is a thermotherapy in which a thermal gas such as hot vapor which is warm vapor is inhaled through a mouth or a nose, and the inhaled thermal gas spreads to every alveolus of lungs. Due to such a thermotherapy, the whole respiratory organ is warmed and, at the same time, heat energy is applied to blood through the alveoli of the lungs so that human body tissues are easily warmed within a short time by transferring the heat energy to whole parts of a human body by making use of the circulation of blood. Accordingly, not only a healthy person but also a patient can easily enjoy advantageous effects of a thermotherapy which is equal to or higher than advantageous effects of a sauna or hot spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2016
    Assignees: Kumamoto Health Science University (60%), Nexus Co., Ltd. (10%), Kagoshima University (30%)
    Inventors: Junichi Iiyama, Kazumi Kawahira
  • Patent number: 9381385
    Abstract: A protective suit (100), especially for an operator (1) in a cooling chamber that is cooled using liquid nitrogen or vapor of the liquid nitrogen comprises a body suit (10) which has a thermally insulating, gas-tight cover material (20) and is designed to accommodate the operator (1), and a heating device (30) which is connected to the body suit (10) and is designed to heat the interior of the protective suit (100). A glove (70) which is made of a thermally insulating glove material (71) and includes a glove heater (77) is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2016
    Assignee: Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft Zur Foerderung Der Angewandten Forschung E.V.
    Inventors: Guenter R. Fuhr, Heiko Zimmermann, Klaus-Peter Hoffmann
  • Patent number: 9339669
    Abstract: A breathing apparatus simulator unit (BASU) comprises a mouthpiece/noseclip subassembly and a cartridge subassembly. The mouthpiece/noseclip subassembly includes the same mouthpiece/noseclip subassembly that is utilized in an actual self-contained self-rescuer (SCSR) device. The cartridge subassembly comprises a container containing a reactionary material. The reactionary material reacts with at least one product of a user's exhalation to generate heat and resistance, thereby providing sensations to simulate the use of an actual SCSR.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: OCENCO, INC.
    Inventor: Michael B. Kay
  • Patent number: 9192793
    Abstract: Embodiments relate to improvements for supplied-air abrasive blast respirators. Embodiments may comprise purified air via filters as a back-up air supply, with the filters typically operating automatically to provide purified air when the supplied air is compromised. Embodiments may locate elements outside of the hood to provide ready access for performing seal checks. Embodiments may incorporate noise reduction elements and/or lens protection elements as well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2015
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Swapnil Gopal Patil, Joseph Rodrigues, Joseph Venagro, Karl Schart
  • Patent number: 9119977
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an oxygen breathing device, in particular for providing oxygen to passengers or crew of an aircraft, the device comprising an oxygen source for providing pressurized oxygen, a valve connected to the oxygen source via a pressure line, a control unit for controlling said valve, and at least one nozzle for dispensing the oxygen passing through said valve. In particular, the present invention relates to an oxygen breathing device comprising a measuring unit for determining the mass flow rate of oxygen passing through said nozzle. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for supplying oxygen to a person, in particular a flight passenger, using an oxygen breathing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2015
    Assignee: Zodiac Aerotechnics
    Inventors: Wolfgang Rittner, Rudiger Meckes, Gunter Boomgarden
  • Patent number: 9016278
    Abstract: There is provided a regulation valve for a life support system for use in an aircraft cabin. The valve may have a gas inlet, an air mask supply outlet connected to the gas inlet, and a pressure vest branch interconnected between the gas inlet and an opening. The valve may further have a decompression valve adapted to inhibit gas flow from the pressure vest branch to the air mask supply outlet if pressure in the aircraft cabin decreases below a predetermined value, a one-way valve adapted to inhibit gas flow from the pressure vest branch to the air mask supply outlet at a predetermined pressure difference between the pressure vest branch and the gas inlet, and a one-way dump valve adapted to direct gas from the pressure vest branch to the environment at the predetermined pressure difference between the pressure vest branch and the gas inlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: Zodiac Aerotechnics
    Inventors: Wolfgang Rittner, Rudiger Meckes
  • Patent number: 8905018
    Abstract: Breathing apparatus comprising a face piece for covering the whole face of a user and a fan unit for operating synchronously with the breath timing of the user. The breathing apparatus comprises a breath monitoring apparatus provided with a diaphragm and a sensor for detecting movement of the diaphragm. The location of the diaphragm and the sensor and a transmission path of inhale pressure and exhale pressure to the diaphragm are optimized. The breath monitoring apparatus is disposed in a fan unit, a space for accommodating the diaphragm and the sensor is disposed independently of an air passage in the fan unit, and the internal space of a nose cup is communicated with the space in the fan unit through holes formed in the nose cup and the face piece when the fan unit and the nose cup are connected to the face piece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: Shigematsu Works Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kenichi Ono, Genta Santou, Hiroyuki Ide, Osamu Zaitsu
  • Publication number: 20140150780
    Abstract: An improved protective breathing apparatus having a vent hole or one way valve incorporated into the inhalation duct so that the breathing apparatus can safely vent and release a pressure differential during the opening of the storage bag from vacuum storage. The use of an air pressure relief mechanism prevents the rupture of the duct and preserves the integrity of the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2013
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Applicant: B/E Aerospace, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy Steger, Kevin Bennett, Stephen Eastman
  • Publication number: 20140116429
    Abstract: Embodiments relate to improvements for supplied-air abrasive blast respirators. Embodiments may comprise purified air via filters as a back-up air supply, with the filters typically operating automatically to provide purified air when the supplied air is compromised. Embodiments may locate elements outside of the hood to provide ready access for performing seal checks. Embodiments may incorporate noise reduction elements and/or lens protection elements as well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2012
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Applicant: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC.
    Inventors: Swapnil Gopal Patil, Joseph Rodrigues, Joseph Venagro, Karl Schart
  • Patent number: 8646449
    Abstract: An anti-asphyxiation valve is disclosed, which is adapted for incorporation within a breathing circuit including a ventilator. The valve comprises one or more apertures for enabling passage of gas between the breathing circuit and the atmosphere, and a valve member deformable between an open configuration in which the one or more apertures are at least partially exposed and the passage of gas therethrough is enabled, and a closed configuration in which the valve member occludes the one or more apertures and the passage of gas therethrough is substantially prevented. The valve member is adapted such that the pressure within the breathing circuit at which the valve member deforms from the open configuration to the closed configuration is greater than the pressure within the breathing circuit at which the valve member deforms from the closed configuration to the open configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Intersurgical AG
    Inventor: Richard Francis Bowsher
  • Patent number: 8573208
    Abstract: An exhaust assembly (1) adapted for use in a respiratory gas delivery system comprises an exhaust vent, an exhaust gas flow passage, a primary gas flow passage, and a moveable member. The exhaust gas flow passage communicated a flow of exhaust gas from a first end of the exhaust assembly to the exhaust vent. The exhaust vent communicates the exhaust gas from the exhaust gas flow passage to ambient atmosphere. The primary gas flow passage communicates a flow of supply gas from a second end of the exhaust assembly to the first end of the exhaust assembly. The moveable member defines at least a portion of the exhaust gas flow passage and the primary gas flow passage, is operable to isolate the flow of exhaust gas from the flow of supply gas, and is responsive to a pressure differential between the flow of supply gas and the flow of exhaust gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips N.V.
    Inventor: Peter Chi Fai Ho
  • Patent number: 8567403
    Abstract: A system includes an ultraviolet light source, such as light-emitting diodes, disposed between a first ionic grid and a second ionic grid. The first and the second ionic grids have opposite ionic charges and a plurality of silver nanoparticles disposed thereon. The ultraviolet light source is configured to emit, onto the first and the second ionic grids, ultraviolet radiation having a wavelength of between about 100 nm and about 280 nm. A biochemical detector may be located adjacent to the first ionic grid on a side of the first ionic grid opposite the ultraviolet light source. The ultraviolet light source, first ionic grid, and second ionic grid may be located within a housing connected to a gas mask, and a membrane filter may be disposed between the gas mask and housing. The housing may include a power source connected to the ultraviolet light source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: The United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Ryan P. Lu, Christopher K. Huynh, Ayax D. Ramirez
  • Patent number: 8544464
    Abstract: The invention relates to a breathing assistance device for a patient, the device including: a source of respiratory pressurised gas; a gas transmission duct comprising a distal end coupled to said source and a proximal end coupled to the patient; a gas regulating valve interposed in the gas transmission duct at a proximal location, comprising a leakage orifice and an obstruction means capable of varying the opening of the leakage orifice upon signal of controlling means and allowing a bidirectional gas flow through the leakage orifice in both expiration and inspiration phases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: ResMed Paris
    Inventor: Philippe Chalvignac
  • Patent number: 8495998
    Abstract: A portable, handheld breath-actuated inhaler comprises a generally cylindrical body that comprises body portions 1, 3 that receive a canister 2 of pressured fluid such a nicotine to be inhaled in an aerosol by a user, a mouthpiece 7 in the first body portion 1 configured to deliver an amount of the aerosol to the mouth of the user from the canister. A trigger is cocked ready for releasing pressurized fluid from the canister by manually sliding the body portions 1, 3 towards one another. The trigger comprises a compression spring 26 and a cam 33 which engages a pressure sensitive puff lever 28 with a plate 29 that releases the cocked trigger when a user sucks on the mouthpiece and draws in air through air inlet opening 26. Release of the trigger releases spring 26 which slides the body portions apart and also opens a valve in the canister so as to deliver the aerosol to the mouthpiece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Assignee: British American Tobacco (Investments) Limited
    Inventor: Steven Michael Schennum
  • Patent number: 8464366
    Abstract: A personal protective suit including a sealed shell equipped with connection device intended to be connected to one same pressurized air source, air distribution device having an air intake connected to the connection device, and at least one first and one second air outlet, respectively intended to supply device for delivering air to the wearer and device for ventilating the suit, wherein the air distribution device includes a valve designed to reduce the air flow rate of the second air outlet when the air pressure at the air intake is below a determined value, while maintaining the supply of air to the wearer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: Materiels Industriels de Securite
    Inventor: Gérard Carron
  • Patent number: 8397715
    Abstract: A chemical and biological protection mask that combines a filter cartridge with a miniaturized high-intensity shortwave UV disinfecting system in a compact easy-to-wear and fully portable form factor. The gas mask comprises a mask portion for covering at least the nose and mouth of a user, a one way exhalation valve mounted on the mask portion, a coupling to an inhalation opening into the mask portion, a filter canister, and a novel UV-illumination tube attachable between the inhalation valve coupling and filter canister. The UV-illumination tube further comprises an aluminum tube, a plastic insert positioned inside the aluminum tube, and a plurality of circuit boards seated within the insert. The circuit boards each have a plurality of UV LED lights axially mounted thereon to irradiate and disinfect air passing through the UV-illumination tube. The UV LED lights preferably emit light within a range of from 240 nm˜280 nm wavelength, and are powered by a battery connected to a voltage regulator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Inventor: Jeffrey C. Litz
  • Publication number: 20130042861
    Abstract: Provided is a helmet-type personal disaster relief device which supplies fresh air to a wearer during an evacuation time period upon the occurrence of disasters, and protects the skin of the face, neck and shoulders of the wearer. For this purpose, the helmet-type personal disaster relief device of the present invention comprises a helmet body having an outer shell, an inner shell formed inside the outer shell, and an air storage space formed between the outer shell and the inner shell.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2011
    Publication date: February 21, 2013
    Applicant: CIJ CORPORATION
    Inventor: Jong-tae Baek
  • Patent number: 8316844
    Abstract: The invention relates to life-saving engineering. The inventive protective hood is embodied in the form of a bag comprising a sorbing-filtering insert, a sorbent container, an exhalation valve, a mouthpiece assembly and a spring element for compressing and the extending the bag. Said hood is a small-sized, has a simple structural design, provides a high protection level and is easy to use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: Epicentre Market, LLC
    Inventor: Marina Anatolievna Bludyan
  • Patent number: 8307828
    Abstract: A pneumatic single-lumen medical gas conserver combines the advantages of typical single-lumen and dual-lumen conservers. In particular, a pneumatic single-lumen conserver can provide a rapid response to patient inhalations without the need for a more expensive dual-lumen cannula hose. In addition, after delivering oxygen the conserver has a specific pneumatically-implemented delay period before being able to detect the next inhalation to inhibit “double pulse” deliveries. In addition to a conserving or pulse flow mode, the conserver can provide a user-selectable gas flow at a continuous or constant flow mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Inovo, Inc.
    Inventors: LeNoir E. Zaiser, Kevin W. Confoy
  • Patent number: 8272381
    Abstract: A closed circuit rebreather including a breathing hose assembly, head assembly and internal counterlung assembly having axial and radial gas flow passageways therethrough, wherein the assembly is housed within a tank and includes a scrubber substantially enclosed along its longitudinal length within a water impervious counterlung bladder, the scrubber including foraminous inner and outer tubes having a carbon dioxide absorbent material filling the space therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Inventor: Charles L. Johnson
  • Patent number: 8225793
    Abstract: A respiratory mask device includes a mask body that has a front gas inlet and a rear abutment end to contact a patient's face, left and right upper connectors disposed on left and right sides of the front gas inlet for connection with an upper head strap, left and right lower connectors respectively disposed beneath the left and right upper connectors, and left and right cantilever arms fixed at a top side of the mask body. The left and right cantilever arms extend downward and sideward from the top side and have bottom free ends carrying respective left and right upper connectors. With the cantilever arms, pulling forces can be dispersed uniformly on the mask body, and uncomfortable pressure experienced by a user may be eliminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: Hsiner Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Eric Chang
  • Patent number: 8215303
    Abstract: A face mask (10) mechanically coupled to a lung demand valve (LDV) (12). The face mask (10) comprises a main mask and an inner mask (15) which fits over the wearer's mouth and nose. The interior of the inner mask (15) is in fluidic communication with the interior of the main mask (10) by means of non-return valves (16). The interior of the main mask is in fluidic communication with an inlet port (18) which is mechanically and fluidically coupled to a supply port (20) of an LDV. The LDV (12) includes a diaphragm and a cover (44) which comprises three parts (44a, 44b) and (44c). Exhaled air is used to flush the space around the diaphragm. Thus, any toxic or undesirable gas in the vicinity of the diaphragm is pushed out to atmosphere by the exhaled air flowing past and around the diaphragm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Draeger Safety UK Limited
    Inventors: Paul Townsend, David Hodson
  • Patent number: 8166968
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Assignee: Atomic Aquatics, LLC
    Inventor: Dean R. Garraffa
  • Patent number: 8113198
    Abstract: A breathing apparatus is operable in self-contained and filtered modes of operation. In the self-contained mode of operation, a breathable gas is delivered to a user from a self-contained source of breathing gas. In a second, filtered mode of operation, a suction source draws ambient air through a filter removing contaminants and delivers filtered ambient air to the user. A method of delivering air to a subject is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Wilcox Industries Corp.
    Inventors: James W. Teetzel, Gary M. Lemire, Daniel A. Desrosiers, Mark A. Hansen
  • Patent number: 8025053
    Abstract: A pressure demand regulator assembly for use with a breathing apparatus having a valve assembly that includes an inlet for connection to a source of breathing gas, an outlet for connection to a facepiece to provide breathing gas to the user and an actuator for controlling the flow of breathing gas between the inlet and the outlet in response to the user's respiration. The regulator assembly further includes a flexible elastomeric diaphragm in operative connection with the actuator. The diaphragm is exposed to ambient pressure on a first side thereof and exposed to a positive pressure within the facepiece on a second side thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2011
    Assignee: Mine Safety Appliances Company
    Inventors: Christopher L. Prete, John F. Rihn
  • Patent number: 7958888
    Abstract: A circulation apparatus and method for use of the same are disclosed. In one embodiment, tubing provides gas communication between an air intake portion disposed at a first end and a breathing sub-apparatus at a second end. A bladder, which may be incorporated into a clothing garment or sleeping gear, is coupled to the tubing between the first and second ends. At least one valve is disposed within the tubing in order to selectively allow gas communication from the air intake portion to the breathing sub-apparatus and selectively allow gas communication from the breathing sub-apparatus to the bladder. Following an inhalation, heated exhaled air is circulated through the bladder to maintain a healthy core temperature and prevent hypothermia.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Inventor: Fred A. Wagner, III
  • Patent number: 7954489
    Abstract: A waterproof structure of a respiratory tube is provided. The waterproof structure comprises a hollow body and a lid. The hollow body has a first opening end and a second opening end opposing to the first opening end. The lid pivots onto the hollow body at the first opening end. Before the lid is immersed into liquid, the gravity of the lid can keep the lid at a certain position so that the respiratory tube is well-ventilated. After a part of the lid is immersed into the liquid, the buoyancy provided by the liquid forces the closing surface thereof to substantially seal the first opening end and prevent liquid from going into the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Assignee: Qbas Co. Ltd.
    Inventor: Chih-Cheng Shiue
  • 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: 7921866
    Abstract: A first stage pressure regulator for a two-stage underwater breathing apparatus, comprises a second movable wall (16, 18) for separating a balance chamber (10) from an ambient exposed chamber (17) . The second movable wall is formed by a disk-shaped piston (16) which is slideably and non sealingly guided along the peripheral walls that delimit the balance chamber (10), and by an elastically deformable diaphragm (18), which overlies the side of the piston (16) facing forward the ambient exposed chamber (17) . The elastically deformable diaphragm (18) forms with said piston (16) a diaphragm type pressure relief valve (20, 318).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Scubapro Europe S.R.L.
    Inventor: Rolando Aluigi
  • Patent number: 7909030
    Abstract: The instant invention incorporates an asymmetrical purge valve tilted to fit within the confines of a chamber having a substantially elliptical cross-section. The elliptical cross-section is oriented to minimize the frontal area presented in the direction of swimming movement. The reduced cross-section results in a corresponding reduction of drag when the diver is swimming underwater.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2011
    Inventor: Tony Christianson
  • Patent number: 7854228
    Abstract: Methods and systems for lung volume reduction of a patient are described. The methods include implanting a flow control device in a bronchial passageway of the lung. The flow control device regulates fluid flow through the bronchial passageway and includes a valve protector that at least partially surrounds a valve member. The valve protector has sufficient rigidity to maintain the shape of the valve member against compression.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Assignee: Pulmonx Corporation
    Inventors: Peter M. Wilson, Antony J. Fields, Hanson S. Gifford, III, John G. McCutcheon, Michael J. Hendricksen, Alan R. Rapacki, David R. Tholfsen, Michael S. Barrett, Ronald Hundertmark, Douglas Sutton
  • Patent number: 7810493
    Abstract: A retractable drink system for providing fluid delivery to a wearer with a donned protective mask covering the mouth, the drink system including a drink tube mounted within the interior of the mask, the drink tube having a retracted position and a deployed position; and an actuation coupling externally accessible with respect to the mask, the actuation coupling moving the drink tube between the retracted and deployed positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: TMR-E, LLC
    Inventor: Todd A. Resnick
  • Patent number: 7798142
    Abstract: A tubular body is operatively coupled to an oral nasal mask and provided with lateral apertures adapted for fluid flow. A flexible valve is mounted onto one end of the tubular body and adapted to seal the lateral apertures under normal operation conditions and expose the lateral apertures for fluid flow during emergency operation conditions. The sealed lateral apertures keep exhaust gases from escaping the oral nasal mask and contaminating the interior of the diving equipment during normal operation conditions. The exposed lateral apertures allow air from an alternate source to reach the mouth and nose of a user covered by the oral nasal mask during emergency operation conditions. The exposed lateral apertures allow excess water to be removed from inside the diving equipment. The valve system may be implemented as an integrated regulator mount nut/valve system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: William Bevly Morgan, Connie Lyn Morgan, Trent Matthew Schultz