Face Mask Covering A Breathing Passage Patents (Class 128/206.12)
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Patent number: 6895960Abstract: A modular respirator system has interchangeable facial lenses and body seals such as a full facepiece seal or a hood. A method of conversion from a full facepiece respirator to a hood respirator, or vice versa, is also disclosed. In one embodiment, lens conversion is accomplished without changing the type of body seal. In another embodiment, a breathable gas delivery conduit is connected to the facial lens and interchanged between the body seals together with the facial lens.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2001Date of Patent: May 24, 2005Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties CompanyInventor: Frank J. Fabin
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Patent number: 6892725Abstract: A neck seal for use in a protective hood includes an inner section including a passage for donning. The inner section is fabricated from an elastomeric material to form a seal around a neck of a user. The neck seal also includes an outer section adhered to the inner section. The outer section is fabricated from a material heat sealable to a hood covering material. In one embodiment, the elastomeric material of the inner section is a latex material. The outer section can, for example, be fabricated from a thermoplastic material. In one embodiment the thermoplastic material is a polyurethane such as a polyester-based polyurethane.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 2002Date of Patent: May 17, 2005Assignee: Mine Safety Appliances CompanyInventor: Zane N. Frund
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Patent number: 6886563Abstract: Fold-flat personal respiratory protection devices that have a flat substantially rectangular central portion having first and second edges, at flat first member joined to the first edge of the central portion through either a fold-line, seam, weld or bond, said fold, bond, weld or seam of the first member being substantially coextensive with said first edge of said central portion, and a flat second member joined to the second edge of the central portion through either a fold-line, seam, weld or bond, the fold, bond, weld or seam of the second member being substantially coextensive with said second edge of said central portion. At least one of the central portion and first and second members are formed from filter media.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 2004Date of Patent: May 3, 2005Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties CompanyInventors: Graham J. Bostock, John W. Bryant, Desmond T. Curran, Christopher P. Henderson, Dennis L. Krueger, James F. Dyrud
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Patent number: 6860267Abstract: A gas mask having a filter canister mount including an inhalation valve and a self-sealing mechanism that prevents air inflow when a filter canister is removed from the canister mount. In one embodiment, the self-sealing valve includes an elastomeric diaphragm mounted in the inlet port and includes a hinge and a skirt, the skirt having a sealing surface that is biased into contact with a valve seat. The filter canister includes a projection adapted to act on the hinge to pivot the skirt away from the sealing surface as the canister is fitted to the canister mount. In one embodiment, the canister comprises a stacked-radial-flow arrangement of particulate and carbon filtration media. In one embodiment, the gas mask includes a visor having a pair of spaced optical panels with a hinge mounted therebetween for relative rotational movement.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2001Date of Patent: March 1, 2005Assignee: Avon Protection Systems, Inc.Inventors: Andrew Capon, David K. Friday, Brian E. Davis, David W. Pike, Gary M. Dunn
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Patent number: 6854463Abstract: Filtering face mask 10 has a mask body 12 and an exhalation valve 14. The mask body 12 is adapted to fit over the nose and mouth of a person, and the exhalation valve 14 is attached to the mask body 12. The exhalation valve 14 has a valve seat 26 and a single flexible flap 24. The valve seat 26 includes a seal surface 31 and an orifice 32. The orifice 32 is circumscribed by the seal surface 31. The single flexible flap 24 has a fixed portion 28 and one free portion 38. The one free portion 38 has a free end, and the fixed portion 28 is located off-center of the flexible flap 24 away from the free end and is secured to the valve seat 26 outside the orifice 32. The one free portion 38 is pressed toward the seal surface 31 when the wearer is neither inhaling or exhaling. The free portion 38 can be lifted from the seal surface 31 during an exhalation.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 1994Date of Patent: February 15, 2005Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties CompanyInventors: Daniel A. Japuntich, Vaughn B. Grannis, Harold J. Seppala, Anthony B. Ferguson
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Publication number: 20040255944Abstract: A disposable face mask includes a mask body covering substantially a nose and mouth of a wearer, and a connecting means included with the mask body. The connecting means includes a pair of ties, an elastic cord, and/or an extension having lateral panels which have a connectable section. A cord is coupled to and extends between at least one pair of lateral panels. The connecting means is configured to releasable encircle a back of a wearer's head to hold a mask body in position over a wearer's nose and mouth.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 18, 2004Publication date: December 23, 2004Inventors: Henry Louis Griesbach, Daryl S. Bell
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Publication number: 20040231672Abstract: The invention relates to an equine inhalation mask, comprising at least one valveless combined inhalation and exhalation conduit, into which inhalant sources comprising respiration control elements and an energy supply that does not require supply lines are interchangeably integrated. A filter system is mounted on the outer end of the inhalation and exhalation conduit facing away from the head of the horse. Said system and the fact that the mask is effectively sealed when on the head of the horse prevent any escape of the aerosol into the environment, thus permitting a reliable inhalation therapy lasting several minutes under normal respiratory conditions.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 18, 2004Publication date: November 25, 2004Inventors: Thomas Schmehl, Tobias Gessler, Kerstin Frey
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Publication number: 20040231671Abstract: A travel mask that fits over the nose and mouth area of a wearer's face for filtration of air, particularly recycled air in the travel compartment of a common carrier, the travel mask having a face shield that preferably includes an aroma patch that emits a pleasant aroma and a retainer such as a head band for retaining the face shield against a user's head. The retainer has slidable ear plugs for blocking noise. The travel mask also has a foldable eye flap or flaps for blocking light when the flap or flaps are extended, the flap or flaps preferably having thermal gel packs for cooling or warming the eye lid area of the wearer during use.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 5, 2003Publication date: November 25, 2004Inventor: Paul G. Begum
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Patent number: 6817362Abstract: A respirator comprising a facepiece having a cup shaped portion for sealingly engaging a face of a wearer and covering the mouth and nose of the wearer and a cover having a cup shape that is complementary to the cup shaped portion of the facepiece. The cover is capable to detachably mate with the facepiece to define with the facepiece a void area that is cup-shaped and suitable to receive a filter having a complementary shape. The filter includes an apex portion, a side portion depending from the apex portion and a continuous flange portion surrounding said side portion and projecting laterally therefrom.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 2002Date of Patent: November 16, 2004Assignee: North Safety Products Inc.Inventors: Daniel GĂ©linas, Breck Andrew Petrillo
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Publication number: 20040221849Abstract: A respiratory mask includes a shield and a mask body. The shield includes an air-impermeable bent sheet that defines a rim-receiving recess. The mask body is detachably connected to the shield and includes a rim that is received in the rim-receiving recess and that defines a chamber therein. The shield cooperates with the mask body to define a gap therebetween. The rim is formed with at least an aperture that is in spatial communication with the chamber and the gap. A filter sheet is permeable to air and is attached to the rim to cover the aperture.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 20, 2004Publication date: November 11, 2004Inventors: Ming-Jeng Shue, Deborah Huang
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Patent number: 6805123Abstract: A compact multipurpose dustproof mask includes a body pipe having an outlet hole formed at one end and a mouth contact hole formed at the other end thereof, and the end where the mouth contact hole is formed is held in the mouth and/or nose, a backward flow preventing ball installed to be capable of moving back and forth and pressed by a returning means in a direction to block a narrow hole formed inside the body pipe so that the body pipe can be open/shut according to pressure of internal air, and a branch pipe formed between the mouth contact hole of the body pipe and the backward flow preventing ball, the branch pipe having an inlet hole having a shape corresponding to a filter formed at one end thereof so that the filter is connected. Thus, the manufacturing cost and the size of a product can be reduced. Also, the mask can be easily carried and kept.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 2002Date of Patent: October 19, 2004Inventor: Jung-Eun Seo
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Publication number: 20040200591Abstract: The invention concerns a permeable material containing a fibrous composition consisting of organic and/or inorganic fibres characterised in that it further contains between 0.1 and 10 g/m2, advantageously 1 g/m2 of activated carbon fibres whereon is adsorbed a germicidal agent.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 7, 2004Publication date: October 14, 2004Inventor: Joseph Dussaud
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Patent number: 6802315Abstract: A vapor phase treated electret filter media includes an additive or mixtures thereof that enhance the charge stability of the media. The filter media achieves acceptable alpha values for a range of filtration challenges without significant decay in alpha values over time. Preferred charge additives include fatty acid amides and mixtures thereof. Exemplary vapor phase deposition monomers include fluorinated monomers.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2001Date of Patent: October 12, 2004Assignee: Hollingsorth & Vose CompanyInventors: Richard E. Gahan, Wai Ming Choi
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Patent number: 6799573Abstract: An air filtration system includes a light weight container which stores a quantity of water for filtering contaminants from inhaled air. A coupling assembly is used to connect the container to a flexible hose for delivery of the filtered air to the dust mask worn by the user. The coupling assembly allows a user to interchange one light weight container with another in a quick and convenient manner if one container becomes saturated with contaminants. A user simply pulls downward on the slidable jacket to release the industrial plug and allowing the attachment of another container to the hose via the coupling assembly.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2002Date of Patent: October 5, 2004Inventor: James D. Bonner
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Publication number: 20040173216Abstract: Disclosed herein is a face mask comprising a health-promoting resin. The face mask comprises a fibrous pad covering wearer's nose and mouth, and a pair of loops attached to both sides of the fibrous pad so as to hang them on both ears, respectively, wherein the pad is composed of an inner layer, an outer layer combined with the inner layer and a health-promoting resin interposed between the inner and outer layers. The face mask can substantially prevent microorganisms from entering the wearer's body by antimicrobial processing, thereby improving the wearer's health and promoting blood circulation to activate various cellular functions and growth-promoting effects in the wearer's body by far-infrared rays and anions generated in an appropriate amount from the health-promoting resin.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 8, 2003Publication date: September 9, 2004Inventor: Sung Yong Park
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Publication number: 20040168689Abstract: An inhalation opening 6 and an exhalation-opening 4 are formed in the facepiece 2 of a breathing apparatus 1 and the openings can be closed with an inhalation valve 8 and exhalation valve 7, respectively. If a person wearing the breathing apparatus 1 inhales, the inhalation valve 8 is open and the exhalation valve 7 is closed. A photointerrupter 11 senses the closing operation of the exhalation valve 7 and supplies electric power to a motor 9 to drive a blower 16.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 29, 2003Publication date: September 2, 2004Inventor: Satoshi Kuriyama
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Patent number: 6783566Abstract: A filter cartridge assembly including a replendam that combines a particulate filter with an irregular shaped gas sorbent bed. Best operational practice requires that the air passing through the filter be distributed uniformly over the sorbent bed. The repledam directs the air over the surface of the larger sorbent bed utilizing vane-like structures extending from the reticulated member providing for uniform distribution.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2001Date of Patent: August 31, 2004Assignee: Scott Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Christopher G. Estkowski
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Patent number: 6758212Abstract: The breathing system includes an elastic, non-porous body housed within an outer protective shell. The body terminates at its forward end in a protective cap and an air inlet passage and at its inner face in oral and nasal cavities. An air filter is disposed in the body and a mouthpiece, including a bite block, is provided for communicating filtered air into the individual's mouth. The bite block has converging surfaces for biasing the mask toward the individual's face when the individual bites down on the block. A hood attached to the mask surrounds the individual's head and receives exhaled air through exhalation ducts communicating between the mouthpiece and the hood.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2002Date of Patent: July 6, 2004Assignee: Brookdale International Systems, Inc.Inventor: Linsey J. Swann
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Publication number: 20040089304Abstract: The present invention relates to face masks to control and improve the quality of inhaled air. Claimed and described is a respiratory face mask comprising a flange and a filter layer, the flange having an inner periphery and an outer periphery and a first and a second width measured perpendicular to the inner periphery between the inner periphery and the outer periphery, characterised in that the first width is greater than the second width. Preferably, such face masks are strapless and rely on a hydrogel adhesive for attachment and sealing. Further claimed and described is an improved cover layer for an adhesive of such a face mask.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 20, 2003Publication date: May 13, 2004Inventors: Mohamed Ali Barakat, Gianluca Brotto, Rainer Link, Gianfranco Palumbo
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Publication number: 20040084048Abstract: A method and device for effective delivery of a gas such as oxygen for inhalation are described that sequentially dilute room air to the flow of gas during a respiratory cycle. A mask assembly is described that comprises an inspiratory and expiratory limb each containing a very low resistance one-way valve, and a sequential dilution conduit (leading from the atmosphere to the inspiratory limb) with a one-way valve that has a slightly positive cracking pressure. A sequential dilution valve may also be placed in the sequential dilution conduit.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 12, 2003Publication date: May 6, 2004Inventors: Alex Stenzler, Tim Quinn, Edmond Chu, Hiroshi Sasano, Ron B. Somogyi, George A. Volgyesi, Steve D. Iscoe, David Preiss, Eltan Prisman, Alex Vesely, Joseph A. Fisher
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Publication number: 20040079373Abstract: A respiratory protection apparatus has a face body, and a right side and a left side of a vertical centerline of the body are respectively provided with filtering devices each of which houses an electrical fan unit therein. Without narrowing the field of the front vision, without increasing the front side weight, and without deteriorating the work efficiency and comfortable fitting, the apparatus ensures the air flow rate of more than 120 liters per minute. Moreover, the electrical fan unit may be detachable from the face body, so that the face body is easily washed and parts are readily replaced with new ones.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 2, 2002Publication date: April 29, 2004Applicant: Yamamoto Kogaku Co., Ltd.Inventors: Etsuji Mukaiyama, Nobutaka Takami
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Patent number: 6722366Abstract: A method of making a personal respiratory protection device. The method comprises: (a) forming a multi-layered structure that comprises a first cover web, a filtration layer that comprises a web that contains electrically-charged microfibers, and a second cover web; and (b) adapting the multi-layered structure into a first panel, a central panel, and a second panel such that the central panel is separated from each of the first and second panels by first and second lines of demarcation, and each of the first, second, and central panels is non-pleated. The first and second cover webs are disposed on first and second opposing sides of the filtration layer, respectively, and at least one of the cover webs comprises spunbond fibers. The resulting respiratory protection device is capable of being folded flat at the respective lines of demarcation for storage and can be opened to form a cup-shaped air chamber over the nose and mouth of the wearer when in use.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 2003Date of Patent: April 20, 2004Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties CompanyInventors: Graham J. Bostock, John W. Bryant, Desmond T. Curran, Christopher P. Henderson, Dennis L. Krueger, James F. Dyrud
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Publication number: 20040065327Abstract: A CPAP system is described for improved respiratory therapy of patients. In particular a patient interface is disclosed with an outlet vent with lower noise levels and more diffused outlet flow over prior art outlet vents. The outlet vent includes a main vent which is diffused and muffled and a higher resistance vent provided in case the main vent is blocked. The outlet vent is removable for easy maintenance and provides indication to the user when maintenance is required. The outlet vent described may be used on nasal masks, mouthpieces and patient interfaces generally.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 30, 2003Publication date: April 8, 2004Applicant: Fisher & Paykel Healthcare LimitedInventors: Lewis George Gradon, Nicholas Charles Alan Smith, Alastair Edwin McAuley, Mark Joseph Haycock, Chris Earl Nightingale
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Patent number: 6715489Abstract: Fold-flat personal respiratory protection devices are provided. The devices have a flat central portion having first and second edges, a flat first member joined to the first edge through either a fold-line, seam, weld or bond that is substantially coextensive with the first edge, and a flat second member joined to the second edge through either a fold-line, seam, weld or bond that is substantially coextensive with the second edge. At least one of the central portion and first and second members are formed from filter media. The device is capable of being folded flat for storage with the first and second members being in at least partial face-to-face contact with a common surface of the central portion and, during use, is capable of forming a cup-shaped air chamber over the nose and mouth of the wearer.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2002Date of Patent: April 6, 2004Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties CompanyInventors: Graham J. Bostock, John W. Bryant, Desmond T. Curran, Christopher P. Henderson, Dennis L. Krueger, James F. Dyrud
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Publication number: 20040055604Abstract: A filter cartridge (5), suitable for attachment to a respiratory mask, has a housing that includes an air inlet (27), an air outlet (39), and filter material (17, 19) through which air to be filtered travels through when passing from the inlet to the outlet. At least part of the housing includes a sheet material (23) that is thermo-formed around the sides of the filter material.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 23, 2002Publication date: March 25, 2004Inventors: Andrew S. Viner, Audra A. Conlan, Brian Cormack, Malcolm R. Watson, Christopher P. Henderson, Desmond T. Curran, Elfed I. Williams
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Publication number: 20040040562Abstract: A valve includes a flexible member and a support member having a member connector. The flexible member is coupled with the member connector, which is substantially spherically configured.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 28, 2002Publication date: March 4, 2004Inventor: Robert A. Brunell
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Publication number: 20040031490Abstract: Safety apparel and/or non-apparel items that filter from the air one or more airborne particles and/or undesired gasses to provide safety to a human and/or non-human from potentially unhealthy airborne particles. The apparel and/or non-apparel item at least partially includes a filter material. The filter material on the apparel and/or non-apparel item has a sufficient size to enable the human and/or non-human to cover the nose, eyes, and/or mouth of the human and/or non-human. The filter material filters at least one airborne particle and/or undesired gas by a mechanical mechanism, an electrical mechanism, and/or a chemical mechanism. The apparel and/or non-apparel item can include at least one visual and/or textural indicator on the apparel and/or non-apparel item to at least partially indicate the location of the filter material on the apparel and/or non-apparel item.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 19, 2003Publication date: February 19, 2004Inventor: John R. Haaga
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Publication number: 20040025880Abstract: A gas mask having a filter canister mount including an inhalation valve and a self-sealing mechanism that prevents air inflow when a filter canister is removed from the canister mount. In one embodiment, the self-sealing valve includes an elastomeric diaphragm mounted in the inlet port and includes a hinge and a skirt, the skirt having a sealing surface that is biased into contact with a valve seat. The filter canister includes a projection adapted to act on the hinge to pivot the skirt away from the sealing surface as the canister is fitted to the canister mount. In one embodiment, the canister comprises a stacked-radial-flow arrangement of particulate and carbon filtration media. In one embodiment, the gas mask includes a visor having a pair of spaced optical panels with a hinge mounted therebetween for relative rotational movement.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 23, 2003Publication date: February 12, 2004Inventors: Andrew Capon, David K. Friday, Brian E. Davis, David W. Pike, Gary M. Dunn
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Publication number: 20040020489Abstract: A breathing filter with a nose mask, strap(s), and a filter member. The strap(s) are elastic, and serve to hold the nose mask over the user's nose. The filter member is a plug-in device allowing removal of the filter member and replacement of the filter member cartridge or the filter material.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 25, 2002Publication date: February 5, 2004Inventors: Michael R. Gillespie, John B. Williamson
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Publication number: 20040011363Abstract: The invention relates to biological defense masks, and more particularly, biological defense masks designed for use by populations at risk of widespread biological attack via biological weapons of mass destruction. The present invention is also related to methods for using such biological defense masks wherein meteorological data is used to issue advisories with regard to the use of such biological defense masks to a population at risk of biological weapons of mass destruction.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 11, 2002Publication date: January 22, 2004Inventors: Stanley L. Wiener, Corey Grove
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Patent number: 6679261Abstract: The present invention discloses an adjustable forehead support for a nasal or full-face mask wherein the forehead support may be adjusted for the different shapes and sizes of a facial profile. The forehead support utilizes a dual-arm system that adjusts the position of the forehead support vis-á-vis the mask and/or airflow tube. The angle of the mask to the face may be adjusted with the present invention.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2001Date of Patent: January 20, 2004Assignee: Resmed LimitedInventors: Perry D. Lithgow, Robert E. Styles, Zdzislaw A. Ziolkowski, Philip R. Kwok
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Patent number: 6659102Abstract: An oxygen mask filter system for preventing the transmission of a disease from a patient to medical personnel. The oxygen mask filter system includes a face mask having an interior surface and an exterior surface, a plurality of vent apertures, a disk member movably attached to the exterior surface of the face mask about the vent apertures, and a filter member attached to the interior surface of the face mask for filtering gases prior to expulsion from the interior of the face mask to the exterior through the vent apertures.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2002Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Inventor: Anthony L. Sico
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Publication number: 20030221690Abstract: In this invention, air-blocking material is contained that enables the formation of a concentrated passage in the inner surface of the mask body that covers the nose and mouth of the user where air is concentrated and passed through at the time of inhalation and exhalation. Accordingly, concentrated passage maintains humidity and preserves heat due to the humidity and warm air of the respiration heat, produced at the time of exhalation. Consequently, cold and dry air of the outside that is the main cause of cold outbreak is converted into warm and humid air while passing through the concentrated passage, which in turn prevents worsening of cold symptoms and the outbreak of cold.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 7, 2003Publication date: December 4, 2003Inventor: Bookyung Lee
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Publication number: 20030217751Abstract: My new mask is like dust masks and surgical masks but it's more efficient and more comfortable. The user can berathe comfortably all day through the cotton cloth I use to make said mask, and it can be reused many times because it's washable. The new built-in padded nose clamp is made of a copper wire that is plyable enough to easily bend to fit the contour of the users nose and strong enough to hold it's shape during normal use. To gather the bottom of said mask snugly under the users chin I built in some draw strings that are fastened together under the users chin with an adjustable quick fastening device. The new design, new materials and the new adjustable devices make my mask easy to use, efficient and comfortable enough to wear all day.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 24, 2002Publication date: November 27, 2003Inventor: Stuart Lane Patrick
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Patent number: 6644316Abstract: A respiratory mask having a variable flow venting is provided according to the invention, including a gas supply hose, a mask shell adapted to output a gas to a respiratory system of a person, the mask shell adapted to be connected to the gas supply hose, and an exhaust gas flow volume regulating device which maintains a substantially constant gas flow volume out of the respiratory mask independent of an internal gas pressure inside the respiratory mask.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 1999Date of Patent: November 11, 2003Assignee: Mallinckrodt Inc.Inventors: Bruce R. Bowman, Gary L. Hansen
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Publication number: 20030200969Abstract: A gas mask (1) is provided with a sealing element (5) of a special shape. The sealing element is easy to handle for use with a plug-in breathing filter (4). The sealing element also provides good sealing against gases from the environment. The sealing element (5) of the gas mask (4) seals the outlet (3) for the breathing filter (4) all around and has a cross section that is limited axially by two parallel, flat, peripheral surfaces (51, 52), whose radial inner limiting surface (53) is concave, and whose radial outer limiting surface (54) extends axially from the outside to the inside first concavely and passes over in the middle area into an elevation (55) tapering outwardly in the radial direction.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 10, 2003Publication date: October 30, 2003Inventors: Hartmut Kintzel, Ralf Drews, Markus Kater
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Publication number: 20030192546Abstract: Fold-flat personal respiratory protection devices are provided. The devices have a flat central portion having first and second edges, a flat first member joined to the first edge of the central portion through either a fold-line, seam, weld or bond, said fold, bond, weld or seam of the first member being substantially coextensive with said first edge of said central portion, and a flat second member joined to the second edge of the central portion through either a fold-line, seam, weld or bond, the fold, bond, weld or seam of the second member being substantially coextensive with said second edge of said central portion. At least one of the central portion and first and second members are formed from filter media.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 25, 2003Publication date: October 16, 2003Applicant: 3M Innovative Properties CompanyInventors: Graham J. Bostock, John W. Bryant, Desmond T. Curran, Christopher P. Henderson, Dennis L. Krueger, James F. Dyrud
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Patent number: 6615833Abstract: The maskap is a safety mask that is worn like a cap, It has a thin rubber liner (or airtight material) that covers the inside of the cap. The rubber liner forms a seal when worn as a mask. There are two plastic eye covers that are sealed to the cap, that when worn as a mask will let the user see through them. On the brim of the cap but under the fabric is a filter box. The filter box has two air tubes molded to it. The air tubes run up the front of the cap. The open ends of the air tubes are sealed with the rubber liner. When the maskap is worn as a mask the user will breath through the filter box. There are elastic bands that are sewn to the cap at three or more points to hold the maskap on.Type: GrantFiled: November 27, 2001Date of Patent: September 9, 2003Inventor: Joseph Henry Bigelow
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Patent number: 6615832Abstract: A wear article including a body or shell formed from a structurally rigid material having a surface that is shaped to fit over a portion of a person's body. An interface flange is sized and shaped to mate with the body surface to form a releasible or removable attachment therebetween. An interface pad is permanently attached to the flange, wherein the flange is interposed between the body and interface pad. The pad includes a resilient film body that is filled with a gel material and a contact surface configured to conform to a portion of a person's body when placed thereagainst. Together, the interface flange and interface pad form an interface assembly that is releasibly attached to the body.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2000Date of Patent: September 9, 2003Assignee: Bragel International, Inc.Inventor: David E. Chen
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Publication number: 20030154984Abstract: A disposable breathing mask (1) comprising side walls (4, 5) and bottom walls (6, 7) made of multilayer filter material. The mask is attached to a user's head (2) by means of a strap (3) attached to attachment areas (25, 26). Joining the attachment points (25, 26) is a rib (27) which extends over the user's nose. The attachment points (25, 26) and rib (27) together form an exo-skeleton which maintains the positional stability of the strap mounting areas during donning of the mask. Arms (31, 32) extend laterally away from the rib (27) and are arranged such as to apply mild pressure to the side walls (4, 5) in the region of the user's nose so as to ensure contact between the filter material and the user's nose.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 14, 2003Publication date: August 21, 2003Inventor: Mark Anthony John Fernandes
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Publication number: 20030154983Abstract: Personal Air Filtering Device with a face mask comprised of nonporous material, the face mask held onto the user's head by standard elastic straps, the face mask having a flexible gasket about its perimeter to provide an airtight seal between the mask and the user's face, the face mask having a check valve that lets exhaled air out of the mask but does not let unfiltered air into the mask, a flexible tube that enters the face mask at one end and enters an air filtering assembly on the opposite end, said air filtering assembly enclosed in a housing, said housing having an air intake opening, and said air filtering assembly including an air moving device such as a fan or pump, a carbon filter cartridge, a particulate matter filter, a battery power supply, and an on-off switch. A preferred embodiment includes said flexible tube held onto the user's clothing by a neck clip.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 15, 2002Publication date: August 21, 2003Inventor: Alvin J. Marx
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Publication number: 20030136408Abstract: A device for removing airborne contaminants and inhaled biopathogens, particularly particulate or aerosol contaminants, from respired air that can be either stationary or incorporated into a garment or accessory worn upon the body. In a preferred embodiment, the device provides multiple levels of protection against inhalation of a dangerous airborne contaminant. In a preferred embodiment, a negative electrode of a portable power supply such as a battery is connected to voltage multiplier and modulation circuit and than to a discharge electrode having an electron emissive surface disposed near the wearer's airway such as, for example, on a chin guard disposed in front of the airway. The positive (counter) electrode is similarly disposed away from the airway such as, for example, near the forehead, but is electrically insulated from the wearer's body.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 28, 2002Publication date: July 24, 2003Inventor: Julian L. Henley
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Publication number: 20030136409Abstract: A compact multipurpose dustproof mask includes a body pipe having an outlet hole formed at one end and a mouth contact hole formed at the other end thereof, and the end where the mouth contact hole is formed is held in the mouth and/or nose, a backward flow preventing ball installed to be capable of moving back and forth and pressed by a returning means in a direction to block a narrow hole formed inside the body pipe so that the body pipe can be open/shut according to pressure of internal air, and a branch pipe formed between the mouth contact hole of the body pipe and the backward flow preventing ball, the branch pipe having an inlet hole having a shape corresponding to a filter formed at one end thereof so that the filter is connected. Thus, the manufacturing cost and the size of a product can be reduced. Also, the mask can be easily carried and kept.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 26, 2002Publication date: July 24, 2003Inventor: Jung-Eun Seo
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Publication number: 20030131846Abstract: Improved full-face, flushed-seal respirators are provided having a primary sealing element adjacent to a breathing space and a secondary sealing element. Exhaled air (i.e., clean air obtained by passage through a filtering element or elements) is passed from the breathing space into a flushing channel formed between the primary and secondary seals. If there is leakage in the primary seal, air from this flushing channel leaks into the breathing space rather than ambient air. Air within the flushing channel will predominately be air that has already passed through the filtering elements. The present invention provides, therefore, an inexpensive respirator which provides significantly more protection than conventional negative-pressure respirators.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 10, 2002Publication date: July 17, 2003Inventors: Donald L. Campbell, Christopher C. Coffey, William A. Hoffman, Judith B. Hudnall
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Patent number: 6584976Abstract: A filtering face mask that covers at least the nose and mouth of a wearer and that includes an exhalation valve. The exhalation valve opens in response to increased pressure when the wearer exhales to allow the exhaled air to be rapidly purged from the mask interior. An exhale filter element is placed in one of several locations in the exhale flow stream to remove contaminants from the exhaled air. The face mask is beneficial in that it provides comfort to the wearer by allowing warm, moist, high-CO2-content air to be rapidly evacuated from the mask interior through the valve and also protects the wearer from splash fluids and polluted air while at the same time protecting other persons or things from being exposed to contaminants in the exhale flow stream.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 1998Date of Patent: July 1, 2003Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties CompanyInventors: Daniel A. Japuntich, Nicole V. McCullough, Jane K. Peterson, Nicholas R. Baumann, John W. Bryant, Christopher P. Henderson, Bruce E. Penning
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Patent number: 6584975Abstract: A respirator mask for filtering breathed air including a mask portion dimensioned for covering the mouth of the user. The mask portion includes an inner portion, an outer portion, and an air chamber therebetween. The mask portion includes a generally circular peripheral edge. The peripheral edge includes a top edge, a bottom edge, and opposed side edges. The mask portion includes a recessed mouth section on the inner portion thereof. The recessed mouth section includes a central aperture in communication with the air chamber. The mask portion includes a pair of air vents secured to the outer portion thereof. The pair of air vents each have open inner and outer ends. The open inner ends are in communication with the air chamber. A mouthpiece portion is removably coupled with respect to the mask portion. The mouthpiece portion includes a shield portion dimensioned for positioning within the recessed mouth section of the mask portion.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2000Date of Patent: July 1, 2003Inventor: Eldridge Taylor
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Patent number: 6568392Abstract: Fold-flat personal respiratory protection devices are provided. The devices have a flat central portion having first and second edges, a flat first member joined to the first edge of the central portion through either a fold-line, seam, weld or bond, said fold, bond, weld or seam of the first member being substantially coextensive with said first edge of said central portion, and a flat second member joined to the second edge of the central portion through either a fold-line, seam, weld or bond, the fold, bond, weld or seam of the second member being substantially coextensive with said second edge of said central portion. At least one of the central portion and first and second members are formed from filter media.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 1998Date of Patent: May 27, 2003Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties CompanyInventors: Graham J. Bostock, John W. Bryant, Desmond T. Curran, Christopher P. Henderson, Dennis L. Krueger, James F. Dyrud
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Patent number: 6561190Abstract: A mask (10) for use with a system for supplying breathable gas pressurised above atmospheric pressure to a human or animal's airways. The mask (10) includes a mask shell (12) which is, in use, in fluid communication with a gas supply conduit (30), and a gas washout vent assembly (20). At least the region of the mask shell (12) or conduit (30) surrounding or adjacent the vent assembly is formed from a relatively flexible elastomeric material.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 1998Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: ResMed LimitedInventor: Philip R. Kwok
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Patent number: 6550479Abstract: A respiratory protection air-purifying device that minimizes the area required in front of the face, especially around the mouth area, by locating the heavier filter cartridge behind the head, resting on the lower neck and shoulders, connected by two filtered air tubes around the head and neck partially counter-balancing the valve chamber directly in front of the mouthpiece, forming a ring around the head with the mouthpiece in the mouth and the exhaust port in the bottom of the valve chamber. The valve chamber has the filtered air intake check type valves opposite each other horizontally, an exhaust check type valve down with short exhaust tube and an oval mouthpiece tube passing through the mouthpiece, into the mouth. The respirator is worn around the head and neck with the filter resting on the lower neck and shoulders, the mouthpiece inserted in the mouth.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2000Date of Patent: April 22, 2003Inventor: James Neil Duxbury
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Patent number: 6543450Abstract: A simple, lightweight, easily deployable mask designed for use in modern fires. The mask substantially covers a wearer's face and includes a peripheral adhesive seal for preventing contaminants from effecting the wearer's visual or respiratory systems. The peripheral seal preferably comprises an adhesive band employing the skin adhesive commonly used in surgical masks. The adhesive band provides for closed attachment of the mask to the brow, the temporal area, cheek, over the jaw and down under the chin. The mask is anchored firmly to the ears of the wearer by resilient straps. Thus attached, the mask seals the eyes, nasal passages and mouth from the toxic external environment. The mask includes an intermediate seal separating the mask into separate visual and respiratory portions.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 2001Date of Patent: April 8, 2003Inventor: John T. Flynn