Abstract: An article and method for using the same is disclosed. The article is worn on a user's head and secures a mask to the user's face without requiring loops associated with the mask to be worn over the back of the ears of the user, thereby eliminating strain and discomfort on the user's ears.

Abstract: Aspects of various embodiments herein may be implemented as follows. An apparatus has a material shell that conforms to a user's face, and a securing portion connected to the shell that may operate to secure a filter to the user's face with the filter covering the user's nose and mouth. A securing force may be applied to the filter via the first material portion in a direction toward the user's face, thereby sealing the filter around the user's nose and mouth. Various implementations involve elastic and other material that facilitate sealing of the filter around the user's nose and mouth.

Abstract: The all-weather protective face mask is a garment. The all-weather protective face mask is worn on the head of a client. The all-weather protective face mask forms a protected space around the face of the client. The all-weather protective face mask comprises a suspension band, a plurality of facepieces, a plurality of face guards, plurality of guard mounts, and a protective structure. The suspension band suspends the all-weather protective face mask from the head of the client. The plurality of facepieces secure the suspension band to the head of the client. The plurality of guard mounts attach the plurality of face guards to the plurality of facepieces. The protective structure forms the protected that encloses the face of the client. The protective structure mounts on the plurality of face guards.

Abstract: A pathogen containment system for use during healthcare procedures is disclosed, comprising a flexible tubing dimensioned to extend around a user's mouth, the flexible tubing including a first end and a second end. A connector includes a central portion including a first side fittingly engaged with the first end of the flexible tubing and a second side fittingly engaged with the second end of the flexible tubing. An attachment port is positioned perpendicular to the central portion, the attachment port is in fluid communication via a vacuum tubing to a vacuum suction unit. A plurality of intake ports are provided on the flexible tubing to permit air to be drawn therethrough via the vacuum suction unit. The air intake ports capture a contaminant emitted from the user's mouth or the user's nose.

Abstract: A face mask according to the present disclosure includes a main body for being worn to cover a wearer's mouth and nose and right and left adjustable straps affixed along respective right and left lateral extents of the main body, each adjustable strap including a continuous length of material having opposing first and second ends and a first loop formed at the first end, wherein the second end is threaded through the first loop to form an ear loop for being positioned around an ear of the wearer such that, in use, the second end is pulled to tighten the ear loop to adjust the fit of the face mask. In some implementations, the main body may include a middle portion disposed between elastic fabric side portions.

Abstract: Embodiments relate generally to methods and systems for detecting and indicating end-of-service-life in disposable filtration masks. Applicant has proposed incorporating end-of-service-life indicators comprising color changing chemicals into the mask. The indicating chemicals may be incorporated into the nonwoven fabric material of the mask, or may be attached to the nonwoven material of the mask, such as by dipping, spraying, or adhering. The color change of the indicating chemicals may indicate to a user that the use life of the mask has been depleted.

Abstract: A flat-fold, filtering, face-piece respirator 10 that has a harness 14, a mask body 12, and first and second flanges 30a, 30b. The mask body 12 is capable of being folded flat for storage and can be opened into a cup-shaped configuration for use. The mask body 12 includes a filtering structure 16 and has the first and second flanges 30a, 30b disposed on first and second mask body sides. The first and second flanges 30a, 30b project both laterally x and frontally y from the mask body 12. The provision of the flanges on each side of the respirator is beneficial to ease of mask donning, doffing, and adjustment, and to face fit and maintaining the open shape or configuration of the mask body.

Abstract: A cushion is for use in a pressure support system for delivering a flow of breathing gas to an airway of a patient. The cushion includes a body having a first end and a second end located opposite the first end. The body defines a space therein. The cushion further includes a sealing portion defining a single opening into the space. The single opening is adapted to surround both a first nostril and a second nostril of a patient. The sealing portion is located between the first end and the second end. The sealing portion includes a first protruding portion and a second protruding portion each extending outwardly from the body and being adapted to sealingly engage against an interior surface of a corresponding one of the first nostril and the second nostril.

Abstract: A face covering having a support structure with a first magnet and a second magnet. The support structure has a fastener mechanism configured to orient the support structure in an open orientation during installation and a closed orientation during use. The support structure has a first protrusion having a first magnetic portion. The support structure has a second protrusion having a second magnetic portion. The support structure has a third protrusion having a third magnetic portion. The fastener mechanism of the support structure is formed from the magnetic connection between the first magnetic portion of the first protrusion, the second magnetic portion of the second protrusion, and the third magnetic portion of the third protrusion. A barrier member has a first filter layer connected to a layer of material. A magnetic snap rivet has a rivet portion removably connected to a post stud. The post stud retains a magnet.

Abstract: A face covering apparatus and method of using the apparatus. A frame is configured to be placed in an operative position on a wearer's head and releasably maintained in the operative position by at least one of: a) resting upon one or both of a wearer's ears and b) frictionally engaging a part of the wearer's head. A covering assembly on the frame has a wall structure with: i) a first region configured to conform to the wearer's face region around the wearer's nose; and ii) a second region configured to conform to the wearer's face region around the wearer's mouth. The face covering apparatus is configured so that with the frame in the operative position on the wearer's head and the wall structure in a blocking position on the frame, the first and second regions on the wall structure together reside in the path of airborne particles moving: A) in a forward direction from the wearer's nostrils and/or mouth; and B) in a rearward direction towards the wearer's nostrils and/or mouth.

Abstract: A headgear system and/or an interface assembly incorporating a headgear system that, in some configurations, is configured to transform from elasticated or “stretchy” behavior to “inelastic” behavior at least in response to normal or expected forces encountered during the intended therapy. In some configurations, upon fitment to the head of a user, the system automatically adjusts toward or to an appropriate size. A headgear portion or assembly for use in combination with a breathing apparatus in some configurations is at least substantially inelastic and is three dimensional in shape. The headgear portion or assembly can comprise a plastic core and a textile casing. The headgear, or part thereof, may also have integrally moulded labels, connectors, adjustment mechanisms and/or grips.

Abstract: A splash resistant multi-layered structure is provided. The structure includes a specific arrangement of layers of material and a plurality of three-dimensional spacers that helps prevent penetration through the structure by a fluid that contacts an outer surface of the structure due to a state of forced separation that exists between two adjacent layers of the structure due to the presence of the plurality of three-dimensional spacers positioned between the layers. The plurality of three-dimensional spacers can be positioned on one of the adjacent layers of the structure such that a distance at least as large as the maximum height of the plurality of three-dimensional spacers separates the two layers from each other and can be present on a layer of material in a continuous or discontinuous pattern or can be present on a layer of material in a random fashion.

Abstract: Systems and methods for improving airway patency are disclosed. An oral device is positioned in the oral cavity and applies a negative pressure to the oral cavity. The oral device has pressure delivery ports directed toward an anterior surface of the soft palate when positioned therein. The negative pressure generates an air flow out of the oral cavity. A pressure tube is coupled to the oral device to provide the applied negative pressure. A pressure source is coupled to the pressure tube to generate the applied negative pressure. A collector is coupled to the pressure tube and/or pressure source to collect liquid, typically saliva, from the air flow out of the oral cavity. The collector is disposed outside of the oral cavity and coupled to the oral device.

Abstract: A circular knit fabric for use as ear loops on face masks. The fabric includes a circular knit tubular textile having loops containing at least one inelastic yarn and at least one separate elastic yarn. The finished tubular textile has a maximum relaxed width of less than about ¼ inches. In a relaxed state of the tubular textile, the at least one inelastic yarn has at least twice the length of the at least one elastic yarn. The textile has less than 16 loops per course such that the relaxed tubular textile produces a more pillowed structure for increased comfort and the capability for increased elongation.

Abstract: Cervical neck brace comprises an anterior brace element, and a posterior brace element which is engaged or engagable with the anterior brace element. The anterior brace element is positionable anteriorly on a user to extend across a cervical vertebral region, and the posterior brace element is positionable posteriorly on the user to extend across the cervical vertebral region. The posterior brace element is a sheet including a central support, an occipital support, and two activation arms, which are hingably connected to the central support. The posterior brace element has a first storage condition and a second in-use condition. A posterior cervical neck brace device and a method of supporting a vertebral region of a user are also provided.

Abstract: A filtering face-piece respirator 10 that includes a mask body 12 and a harness 14. The mask body 12 has a major portion 28 that contains one or more layers of filter media 62 and that has first and second flanges 30a, 30b located on opposing sides of the major portion 28 at first and second lines of demarcation 36a, 36b. The first and second flanges 30a, 30b are capable of folding downwardly toward the major portion 28. The harness 14 includes one or more straps 26, 27 that each have first and second ends 29a, 29b. The first and second straps are secured to the first and second flanges 30a, 30b, such that there is a strap attachment point spaced at least one centimeter from the line of demarcation. The strap tension and spacing from the line of demarcation causes the flap to be folded downwardly into contact with the major portion to improve crush resistance.

Abstract: An interface and headgear assembly includes a headgear assembly. The headgear assembly has a first strap configured to connect to the interface. A crown strap can be adjusted along a length of the first strap. In some configurations, the crown strap has a first portion and a second portion that are adjustably connected. The crown strap can be removably connected to the first strap using bridge regions of the first portion and the second portion.

Abstract: A medical face shield (10) is disclosed having a flexible front plate or shield (11), a foam forehead pad (21), and a flexible, stretchable headband (22). The front shield has a viewing window (25) which is positioned to be directly in front of a person's eyes wearing the face shield. The viewing window is surrounded by a translucent, peripheral margin, frame, or window surrounding portion (27) which provides an anti-glare characteristic or capability to the margin.

Abstract: A device for preventing the spread of bio-matter contagions when used in conjunction with a tongue depressor. The device includes a shield for intercepting the bio-matter contagions. The shield adjustably and removably secures along the tongue depressor. The device also includes a grip manipulator that extends from the shield. The grip manipulator adjustably engages the tongue depressor. The device also includes a window that provides viewing access through the shield.

Abstract: A laminated, antiviral and silver impregnated, 100% activated woven carbon cloth is fashioned into a biodegradable disposable device. The device has the ability to capture and kill viruses, germs and bacteria that emanate from the cough as one suffers the effects of respiratory infections. The device attaches to the wrist and is to be used at first signs of respiratory infection, such as the cold or flu. When one begins to cough, the idea is to press your mouth against the device and deliver the cough instead of coughing into ones hands, sleeve or open air. The carbon base device is antiviral, anti-germ and antibacterial inside and out and will remain effective throughout the entire bout of the cold or flu and is then disposed of. The cough containment apparatus provides security to its users and others, in knowing that the virus is being contained.

Abstract: Embodiments pertain to a facial solar shield device. The facial solar shield device includes a piece of fabric that includes a substantially lobe-shaped portion that includes a perimeter portion, a folded portion that defines an opening, and a sleeve formed along at least a portion of the perimeter portion. The facial solar shield device includes one or more pleats that form the piece of fabric into a cup-shape and a flexible shaping element. The method of creating the facial solar shield includes obtaining a piece of fabric that includes a substantially lobe-shaped portion with a perimeter portion and forming a folded portion that defines an opening. The method further includes forming one or more pleats in the piece of fabric to form the piece of fabric into a cup-shape and forming a seam along at least a portion of a perimeter portion of the piece of fabric.

Abstract: A filtering face mask includes a top layer, a structure layer, one or more filtering layers, a back layer and straps. The straps, the ends of which are attached to the mask, run through strap holes in the mask, and may be pulled to change the mask from a flat to a wearable configuration. The unpleated top layer may easily be decorated before wearing the mask.

Abstract: The Mouth Mesh invention is a round device that fits around a person's mouth area just under the nose and has an outer screen mesh with an inside nylon screen mesh with a tighter cell area to stop any spittle from a person's mouth to spray and spread into the air around other people. It allows the person wearing it to talk freely while it is adhered to the mouth area without falling off of the person's mouth area.

Abstract: There is provided a mask that includes a mask body and two strings. The two strings hold the mask body at a predetermined position on the face of a wearer by being caught by both ears or the head of the wearer. Folded portions, which are adapted so as to be capable of rising and falling on the surface of the mask body coming into contact with the face of the wearer, are formed on both sides of the mask body.

Abstract: A topsheet made of a fibrous web or a perforated film and having a clear top layer containing about 5% to about 50% of jade particles. The jade particles having a mean diameter of from about 50 to about 600 microns and an aspect ratio from about 1 to about 5. Also disclosed is method for manufacturing the topsheet, as well as absorbent articles and facial protection masks containing the topsheet.

Abstract: A filtering face-piece respirator 10 that includes a harness 14 and a mask body 12 that has a multi-layer filtering structure 16. Present at the perimeter 24 on the interior surface of the mask body 12 is a region having an increased coefficient of friction 44, in relation to the filtering structure 16. This region 44 can be formed by a discontinuous coating of a polymeric material. The region 44 improves the fit of the respirator 10 on the wearer's face, providing a non-slip seal, yet allows moisture laden air to exit from the interior gas space of the mask body 12.

Abstract: A cup-shaped filtering face-piece respirator 10 that includes a harness 14 and a mask body 12 that has a multi-layer filtering structure 16. The mask body 12 includes at least one dart 60 permanently bonded in the filtering structure 16, the dart 60 tapering from a center plane 32 of the mask body 12 to a side edge of the mask body. The dart 60 inhibits collapse of the cup-shaped form of the respirator 10.

Abstract: A filtering face-piece respirator 10 that includes a harness 14 and a mask body 12 that has a multi-layer filtering structure 16. The mask body 12 includes an upper interior perimeter segment 24a formed from the filtering structure 16 and configured to fit against the face of the respirator wearer. Present in the upper interior perimeter segment 24a is a nose notch 52, 62, which is an area void of filtering structure 16.

Abstract: A filtering face-piece respirator 10 having a mask body 12 formed of a filtering structure 16. The mask body 12 has at least one transversely extending stiffening member 50, formed by an s-shaped or tri-fold pleat permanently connected, such as by welding. The at least one stiffening member 50 increases the integrity of the mask body 12, when in the opened cup-shaped configuration, inhibiting collapse of the mask body, due to, for example, increased pressure drop across the mask body 12 due to dirty or moisture laden air.

Abstract: A filtering face-piece respirator 10 that includes a harness 14 and a mask body 12 that has a multi-layer filtering structure 16. The respirator includes a cushioning member 64 positioned proximate the nose area of the mask body 12, enveloped by a layer of the filtering structure 16. The cushioning member 64 is a compressible material and may be elastic. The cushioning member 64 can be positioned directly opposite of a nose clip 56.

Abstract: A non-woven body for binding mercury, comprising a substrate made from a nonwoven fabric, wherein the body is doped with gold on the outside and with silver on the inside, is characterized in that the substrate comprises an outer ply that encloses the outside, an inner play that encloses the inside, and an electrically neutral intermediate ply is interposed between the outer ply and the inner ply. Such a non-woven body may be used as a protective mask of also as lining for a box for disposal of broken energy-saving lamps.

Abstract: Disclosed is an air filtration mask formed from individual connectable components namely a base member, a filter holder member, a filter member, and an optional decorative mask cover member. The base member employs studs which allow the filter holding member to securely attach to the base member by means of holes in latches located around the rim of the filter holder member. A replaceable filter member attaches to the filter holder member snapping into the studs located on the inside of the filter holder. A fashion mask cover member can be attached to the front of the filter holder to enhance the appearance. A fashion scarf or bandana can be further attached to the base of the mask so that the mask assembly can stay completely hidden while worn.

Abstract: A horizontal flat-fold, filtering face-piece respirator 10 that includes a harness 14 and a mask body 12 that has a front surface, a first perimeter 24a, and a longitudinal axis 34. A nose clip 30 is secured to the mask body 12 centrally and adjacent to the first perimeter 24a of the mask body 12. An indicia 32 that is visible on the front surface of the mask body 12 in a vicinity of the nose clip 30 is provided to highlight a longitudinal axis of symmetry of the nose clip. The use of such an indicia, visible from the mask body front surface, enables a user to readily indentify where the nose clip may be bent to prepare it for donning by the wearer.

Abstract: Disclosed is a protective mask with imbedded functionality and an interchangeable face panel. The protective mask includes an upper support that extends across a wearer's face and a lower support extending downward therefrom so that the mask covers the wearer's nose and chin, leaving the eyes uncovered. The each of the ends of the upper support includes an earphone, whereby each of the earphones includes a microphone, a speaker, a wireless headphone circuitry, a power source, and related components enclosed therein. The wireless headphone circuitry includes a wireless transceiver and an antenna assembly that communicates with an external electronic device. The wireless transceiver is connected to a processor that can decode input signals to emit sound through the speaker, and that can process speech into a signal for transmission. In this way, the present invention provides a hands-free and a wireless method of communicating with external electronic devices.

Abstract: Ergonomic protective air filtration devices and methods for manufacturing the same are disclosed herein. An ergonomic protective air filtration device includes a stack of at least two layers of an air permeable material, the stack forming a body, a periphery, and a back; a plurality of intersecting three-dimensional V-shaped pleats extending from the periphery and into the stack of layers, so the back of the device defines a breathing chamber adapted to cover a mouth and a nose of the wearer; and a retaining means engaging the body of the device to secure the device to a face of the wearer and to create the breathing chamber. The ergonomic protective air filtration device provides protection against contaminated droplets, fluid splashes, solid particulates, pathogenic microorganisms, or aerosoled air pollutions.

Abstract: A filtering face mask includes a top layer, a structure layer, one or more filtering layers, a back layer and straps. The straps, the ends of which are attached to the mask, run through strap holes in the mask, and may be pulled to change the mask from a flat to a wearable configuration. The unpleated top layer may easily be decorated before wearing the mask.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a face mask for filtering contaminants from the air that is suitable for medical applications. In one embodiment, the face mask of the present invention comprises an air-permeable body with an inner seal connected to the inner surface of the body, and at least one strap for securing the face mask to the wearer's face. In another embodiment, the face mask of the present invention further comprises an outer seal connected the perimeter of the air-permeable body.

Abstract: A system and method for controlling a device to alleviate sleep apnea comprises determining whether a user of the device is asleep by a microcontroller operatively connected to the device. Using a sensor operatively connected to the microcontroller, it is determined whether a breathing anomaly of the user is detected while the user is asleep. An electromagnet operatively connected to the device generates an electromagnetic field to widen an airway of the user in response to detecting the breathing anomaly while the user is asleep.

Abstract: Provided is an absorbent including silica of which a raw material is a material originating from a plant which includes silicon, and a silane coupling agent which modifies a surface of the silica. A value of a specific surface area of the silica in accordance with a nitrogen BET method is 10 m2/g or more, and a pore volume of the silica in accordance with a BJH method is 0.1 cm3/g or more.

Abstract: A cough containment device is described, which may be a cup member having a top lid and filter joining portion, a second cap joining member for containment and a tissue holder. The invention is for coughing and sneezing and in the form of a cup with a hollow end at both parts of the cup. At one end is a cap with vents. The vents allow air to flow in and out of the cup. The user coughs through one end and airflow from coughing exits the filter on opposite end.

Abstract: A face mask and method of making it are disclosed. The face mask has a layered construction including an elongated elastic nonwoven sheet having a central portion and first and second lateral end portions on opposite sides of the central portion; a filtering web portion bonded to the central portion of the elastic nonwoven sheet; and a first flap bonded to the central portion of the elastic nonwoven sheet, wherein the first flap is smaller in area than the filtering web portion, and wherein the first flap is bonded along one of the top edge or the bottom edge of the central portion. A dispenser including a plurality of the face masks, a stack of a plurality of the face masks, and a continuous layered web having a plurality of face masks disposed thereon are also disclosed.

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: The present invention relates to a dust mask. The dust mask of the present invention comprises: a mask main body in a shape enclosing the nose and mouth areas; a ring-shaped eyepiece, the outer perimeter of which is bound to the periphery of the main body; and a shape retainer detachably provided on an inner surface of the main body. In particular, the shape retainer is a thin film which is not pervious to fluid and which has an intake hole and a discharge hole, an outer perimeter contacting a joining portion between the main body and the eyepiece, and a contactless passage connected from the end of the outer perimeter to the intake hole by means of a plurality of projecting guides radially formed on a surface thereof. The dust mask of the present invention does not exhibit loss of filtering ability of the mask main body caused by contact. Thus, the dust filtering efficiency of the dust mask is significantly improved over conventional masks.

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: Provided are a multi-layered nonwoven fabric, comprising: an outer layer formed of a spunlaced nonwoven fabric including at least one of a bamboo fiber and a polyethyleneterephthalate (PET)-based fiber; a middle layer formed of a melt blown nonwoven fabric; and an inner layer formed of a melt blown nonwoven fabric or a melt blown-spunlaced nonwoven fabric, wherein the outer layer comprises an allergen inactivation agent; a method of manufacturing the same; and an anti-allergic product including the same. The multi-layered nonwoven fabric can exhibit good air permeability and weatherability, and even more, can inactivate an allergen and thus exhibit anti-allergic, anti-bacterial and anti-viral effects.

Abstract: A pleated molded filtering face piece respirator to be worn upon the face of a wearer and for providing filtering including at least one layer of moldable flexible plastic material formed from openwork flexible plastic material for providing a plurality of perforations for allowing for the free passage of air through the openwork plastic. A layer of moldable filter material for filtering impurities in the air, the one layer of flexible plastic material formed from openwork flexible plastic material and the layer of filter material for filtering impurities in the air lying one on top of the other to form a moldable multilayer of flexible plastic material and filter material. The moldable multilayer of flexible plastic material and filter material are pleated into pleated material and molded to form the pleated filtering face piece respirator to a desired configuration where the one layer of openwork flexible plastic material forms a support layer to carry the layer of filter material.

Abstract: A respiratory mask body defining a breathable air zone for a wearer and having a shut-off valve is provided. In an exemplary embodiment, the mask body includes one or more inlet ports configured to receive one or more breathing air source components. The shut-off valve is operable between a closed position and an open position, and when in a closed position the shut-off valve prevents fluid communication between the one or more inlet ports and the breathable air zone and the shut-off valve returns to an open position in the absence of an applied force.

Abstract: An adjustable face mask having a body conforming substantially to the facial structure of a wearer. The face mask is provided with a neck protector and removable filter and with a strip of fabric designed to push air down to the sides of the wearer's face in order to eliminate fogging of the wearer's goggles. The face mask can optionally provide neck protection with a descending neck member.