Retractable passenger protection breathing apparatus

Abstract

An oxygen mask is disclosed herein. The oxygen mask includes: a first flexible material having a first surface and a second surface; the first spring is arranged around the first flexible material in the circumferential direction, the first spring provides structural support for the oxygen mask along a first plane, and the first flexible material and the first spring define the interior of the oxygen mask; an air valve configured to allow air to flow from the interior of the oxygen mask to an exterior of the oxygen mask; an air hose coupled to the oxygen mask and configured to allow air to flow into the oxygen mask; and a strip coupled to the first flexible material and the first spring, where the strip is configured to pull the first flexible material and the first spring to conform to a 3D surface.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to personal protective respiratory equipment and, more particularly, to personal protective respiratory equipment for use on aircraft. Background Art

[0002] Passenger aircraft, such as commercial aircraft, that include a cabin with passenger seats are typically equipped with an overhead passenger service unit ("PSU"). The overhead PSU is typically located above the passenger seats. Such aircraft overhead PSUs typically include individually switchable passenger reading lights, ventilation devices for supplying fresh air to passengers, speakers, and switchable visual signs. The aircraft overhead PSU may also include oxygen masks that can be released and activated in an emergency to supply oxygen-enriched gas to passengers, particularly in the event of an emergency resulting in depressurization (hypoxia), smoke, or toxic gases within the aircraft cabin.

[0003] In order to provide the required functionality in a satisfactory manner, the oxygen masks are packaged within the PSU in a manner that allows them to be dropped from the PSU for use by the passenger. Packing the oxygen masks is often time-consuming and sometimes complicated due to the supply hoses and the oxygen masks themselves. During the packaging process, the masks and hoses must not be packed too tightly so as to prevent them from being deployed or closing the door, but they must also not be packed too loosely and become tangled. Each oxygen mask typically only covers the passenger's nose and mouth. The typical cup-shaped design of current oxygen masks can be unintuitive to use, resulting in poor placement of the oxygen mask by the passenger. Poor placement often reduces the effectiveness of the oxygen mask. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Disclosed herein is an oxygen mask comprising: a first flexible material having a first surface and a second surface; a first spring disposed circumferentially around the first flexible material, the first spring providing structural support for the oxygen mask along a first plane, wherein the first flexible material and the first spring define an interior of the oxygen mask; an air valve configured to allow air to pass between the interior of the oxygen mask and an exterior of the oxygen mask; an air hose coupled to the oxygen mask and configured to allow air to flow into the oxygen mask; and a strap coupled to the first flexible material and the first spring, wherein the strap is configured to pull the first flexible material and the first spring to conform to a 3D surface.

[0005] In various embodiments, the oxygen mask further comprises a second spring disposed transversely across the first flexible material and providing structural support for the oxygen mask along a second plane orthogonal to the first plane. In various embodiments, an air valve is coupled to the first flexible material. In various embodiments, an air hose is coupled to the first flexible material. In various embodiments, the oxygen mask further comprises: a second flexible material including an opening formed therethrough, the second flexible material defining a first portion of the oxygen mask; and a flexible transparent membrane coupled to the second flexible material, the flexible transparent membrane defining a second portion of the oxygen mask.

[0006] In various embodiments, the oxygen mask further comprises a flexible plate coupled to the second flexible material and configured to cover an opening formed in the second flexible material, wherein the air hose is coupled to the flexible plate, and wherein the air valve is coupled to the flexible plate. In various embodiments, the air hose is configured to detach from the oxygen mask in response to a force applied to the air hose.

[0007] The present invention also discloses a full-face oxygen mask, which includes: a first flexible material, the first flexible material including a first opening formed therethrough, the first flexible material being configured to contact a passenger's face and with the passenger's face passing through the first opening; a first spring coupled to the first flexible material and disposed around a periphery of the first flexible material, the first spring being configured to provide support for the first flexible material in a first plane; a second flexible material coupled to the first spring and the first flexible material, the second flexible material including a second opening formed therethrough; and a flexible transparent film coupled to the first flexible material. A first flexible material and a second flexible material, wherein the second flexible material and the flexible transparent film are configured to provide support for a full-face oxygen mask in a second plane orthogonal to the first plane; a flexible plate coupled to the second flexible material and covering the second opening; an air hose coupled to the flexible plate and configured to provide air to the full-face oxygen mask; an air valve coupled to the flexible plate and configured to allow air to pass through the flexible plate; and a strap coupled to the first flexible material and the first spring, the strap configured to secure the full-face oxygen mask to a 3D surface, including conforming the first flexible material and the first spring to the 3D surface.

[0008] In various embodiments, the full-face oxygen mask further comprises a rebreather reservoir coupled to the first flexible material and the second flexible material, the rebreather reservoir being configured to store a quantity of air for use after disconnecting the air hose. In various embodiments, the full-face oxygen mask further comprises a second spring coupled to the second flexible material and the flexible transparent membrane, the second spring providing structural support in the second plane. In various embodiments, the full-face oxygen mask further comprises an inflatable structure coupled to the first flexible material and configured to inflate in response to air from the air hose, wherein the inflatable structure is disposed circumferentially around the first flexible material.

[0009] In various embodiments, the full-face oxygen mask further comprises an integrated air filter disposed between the first flexible material and the second flexible material, wherein the integrated air filter is exposed to air in response to the air hose being disconnected from the full-face oxygen mask. In various embodiments, the integrated air filter comprises activated filter media. In various embodiments, the first flexible material has an oval shape and the second flexible material has a geometric shape.

[0010] The present invention also discloses an oronasal passenger mask, which includes: a first flexible material having a first surface and a second surface; a first spring, which is arranged circumferentially around the first flexible material, and the first spring provides structural support for the oronasal passenger mask along a first plane, wherein the first flexible material and the first spring define an interior of the oronasal passenger mask; a second spring, which is arranged laterally across the first flexible material and provides structural support for the oronasal passenger mask along a second plane orthogonal to the first plane; an air valve, which is connected to the first flexible material and is configured to allow air to flow from the interior of the oronasal passenger mask to the exterior of the oronasal passenger mask; an air hose, which is connected to the first flexible material and is configured to allow air to flow into the oronasal passenger mask; and a strap, which is connected to the first flexible material and the first spring.

[0011] In various embodiments, a first portion of the first flexible material extends from a first side to overlap a second portion of the first flexible material extending from a second side opposite the first side. In various embodiments, the first spring and the second spring are configured to fold over onto themselves into a stored state. In various embodiments, the first spring and the second spring are configured to deploy the oronasal passenger mask from the stored state to a deployed state for use.

[0012] In various embodiments, the strap is configured to pull the first flexible material and the first spring to conform to the 3D surface. In various embodiments, the oronasal passenger mask further comprises an integrated air filter, wherein the integrated air filter is exposed in response to the air hose being removed.

[0013] The foregoing features and elements may be combined in any combination, but not exclusively, unless otherwise expressly indicated herein. These features and elements and operations of the disclosed embodiments will become more apparent in view of the following description and accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] The subject matter of the present disclosure is particularly pointed out and distinctly claimed in the concluding portion of the specification. However, a more complete understanding of the present disclosure is best obtained by referring to the following detailed description and claims in conjunction with the following drawings. Although the drawings illustrate various embodiments employing the principles described herein, the drawings do not limit the scope of the claims.

[0015] Figure 1 A schematic side view of an aircraft is shown, according to various embodiments.

[0016] Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a passenger cabin of an aircraft is shown according to various embodiments.

[0017] Figure 3 Schematic plan views of aircraft overhead passenger service units are shown, according to various embodiments.

[0018] Figure 4A and Figure 4B Retractable oronasal passenger protective respiratory equipment is shown according to various embodiments.

[0019] Figure 5A 、 Figure 5B 、 Figure 5C 、 Figure 5D and Figure 5E Retractable full-face passenger protective respiratory gear is shown according to various embodiments.

[0020] Figure 6A 、 Figure 6B and Figure 6C Methods of folding and storing collapsible passenger protective respiratory equipment are shown according to various embodiments.

[0021] Figure 6D 、 Figure 6E 、 Figure 6F and Figure 6G The storage and retrieval of retractable passenger protective breathing equipment is shown according to various embodiments.

[0022] Figure 7A and Figure 7B Methods of folding a ring for use with collapsible passenger protective respiratory equipment are shown according to various embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] The following detailed description of various embodiments herein refers to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate various embodiments by way of illustration. Although these various embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the present disclosure, it should be understood that other embodiments can be realized and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the detailed description herein is presented for the purpose of illustration and not limitation only. Although these exemplary embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the present disclosure, it should be understood that other embodiments can be realized and logical, physical and mechanical changes can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. For example, the steps described in any one of the method or process descriptions can be performed in any order and are not necessarily limited to the order presented. In addition, any reference to the singular includes plural embodiments, and any reference to more than one component or step can include singular embodiments or steps. In addition, any reference to attachment, fixing, connection, etc. can include permanent, removable, temporary, partial, complete or any other possible attachment options. In addition, any reference to non-contact (or similar phrases) can also include reduced contact or minimal contact. It should also be understood that references to "a," "an," or "the" may include one or more, and references to items in the singular may also include items in the plural, unless specifically stated otherwise. In addition, all ranges may include upper and lower values, and all range and ratio limits disclosed herein may be combined.

[0024] Various embodiments of retractable passenger protective breathing equipment for use on aircraft are disclosed herein. In various embodiments, the retractable passenger protective breathing equipment ("PPBE") can be packaged into a smaller space than a traditional passenger oxygen mask and may be larger in size when in use, more intuitive to use, and provide additional protection. In various embodiments, the retractable PPBE may include a spring element or ring that is configured to twist or coil so that the PPBE folds into a significantly smaller shape for storage. In various embodiments, the spring ring may be configured to unfold the PPBE into a full-size mask for use by the passenger. In various embodiments, the PPBE may be configured to cover the passenger's nose and mouth. In various embodiments, the PPBE may be configured to cover the passenger's nose, mouth, and eyes.

[0025] In various embodiments, the PPBE may include an air filter configured to filter smoke or other debris / particulate matter from the air. In various embodiments, the PPBE may be configured to disconnect from the aircraft, allowing a passenger to exit the aircraft while wearing the PPBE. In various embodiments, the PPBE includes a flexible material that unfolds for use. In various embodiments, the flexible material is configured to be pulled and formed into a mask using straps to conform to a wide range of sizes and shapes of passengers' faces and heads. In a typical year, aircraft experience more emergencies involving smoke and / or toxic gases than emergencies involving decompression. Therefore, the full-face PPBE disclosed herein protects the passenger's eyes and provides oxygen to the passenger. In various embodiments, the full-face PPBE tends to reduce irritants from entering the eyes, improve the passenger's vision, and / or reduce panic and / or disorientation caused by discomfort or reduced vision.

[0026] Now refer to Figure 1 , shows a schematic side view of an aircraft 100 (particularly an airplane) according to various embodiments. The aircraft 100 includes a cockpit 103 and a passenger cabin 104. The aircraft 100 can be a commercial airliner, a private aircraft, a military aircraft, or the like.

[0027] Now refer to Figure 2 , shows a schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view of a portion of a passenger cabin 104 of an aircraft 100 according to various embodiments. The passenger cabin 104 includes passenger seats 81, of which four passenger seats 81 are visible. The passenger seats 81 are mounted to the floor 120 of the passenger cabin 104. Each of the depicted passenger seats 81 belongs to a different seat row 80a-80d. The seat rows 80a-80d are spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal direction L of the passenger cabin 104. Each of the seat rows 80a-80d includes windows 108a-108d that allow passengers to observe the exterior of the aircraft 100. In addition, a plurality of overhead luggage compartments 112 are provided above the passenger seats 81 to provide storage space for passengers' luggage.

[0028] Each seat row 80a-80d may include a plurality of passenger seats 81 arranged adjacent to each other, for example, three passenger seats 81. The other passenger seats (middle seats and window seats) of each seat row 80a-80d are arranged adjacent to each other. Figure 2 The passenger cabin 104 is not visible in the figures because they are arranged behind and therefore hidden by the depicted passenger seats (aisle seats) 81. The passenger cabin 104 also includes aircraft overhead passenger service units 109a-109d located above each of the seat rows 80a-80d, respectively.

[0029] Now refer to Figure 3, shows a schematic plan view of an aircraft overhead passenger service unit 109 according to various embodiments. The passenger service unit 109 includes a row of three adjustable reading lights 126a-126c and six electrical switches 127a-127c, 128a-128c adjacent to the reading lights 126a-126c. The passenger service unit 109 also includes a row of three adjacent ventilation devices 129a-129c or air valves adjacent to the switches 127a-127c, 128a-128c.

[0030] Disposed adjacent to the ventilator chambers 129a-129c is an oxygen supply and mask storage section 25. The oxygen supply and mask storage section 25 includes a removable door 24 covering an oxygen mask storage compartment 22. The oxygen mask storage compartment 22 accommodates at least three oxygen masks 12 that are coupled to an oxygen supply 20, such as a manifold, a pressurized oxygen tank, or a chemical oxygen generator.

[0031] In the event of an emergency resulting in depressurization, fire, or the like within the cabin 104, the movable door 24 will open and allow the oxygen masks 12, along with the pull tabs attached to each oxygen mask 12, to fall out of the oxygen mask storage compartment 22. Each passenger seated beneath the aircraft's overhead passenger service unit 109 can grab one of the oxygen masks 12. After being activated, the oxygen supply device 20 can supply oxygen-enriched gas to the oxygen masks 12, allowing passengers to breathe almost normally even in the event of a depressurization of the cabin 104.

[0032] The oxygen supply 20 may be activated in response to an emergency signal provided by the controller in response to a loss of pressure within the passenger cabin. In various embodiments, the oxygen supply 20 may be activated in response to a manual pull pin coupled to the oxygen mask 12. Alternatively, the oxygen supply 20 may be activated in response to the passenger taking the first breath through the oxygen mask 12.

[0033] Now refer to Figure 4A and Figure 4B , shows a retractable passenger protective breathing equipment ("PPBE") 400 or oxygen mask according to various embodiments. In various embodiments, the PPBE 400 can be stored in a passenger cabin (e.g., cabin 104), a galley, a lavatory, and / or a crew rest area, among other locations on an aircraft. Figure 4A The PPBE 400 is shown in a deployed state, and Figure 4BPPBE 400 is shown in a collapsed state. PPBE 400 includes a flexible material 402, a first spring 404, a second spring 406, a strap 408, an oxygen supply hose 410, and one or more air valves 412, alternatively referred to as exhalation valves, ambient air valves, and / or oxygen valves. Flexible material 402 may include one or more of polyester, microfiber, nylon, a woven fabric, an elastomer, a thermoplastic elastomer, or a thermoplastic material or film, among others. In various embodiments, flexible material 402 may be additionally coated with a flame retardant and / or include a flame retardant-coated material. In various embodiments, flexible material 402 may be configured to overlap or layer when in the expanded state (such as at overlap point 420) to provide a pocket, volume, or reservoir for oxygen storage. In various embodiments, flexible material 402 may be a single piece of material with no overlap.

[0034] The first spring 404 is positioned within the flexible material 402 and secured in place by the flexible material around its periphery. That is, when the PPBE 400 is in the deployed state, the first spring 404 is approximately two-dimensional (e.g., along the xy plane). The first spring 404 is positioned to provide a secure fit around the passenger's nose and mouth, regardless of the passenger's facial size. In various embodiments, the flexible material 402 may include an opening sewn around its periphery that is configured to hold and secure the first spring 404. In various embodiments, the first spring 404 may include a memory material, metal, a metal alloy, carbon fiber, and / or a plastic material. In various embodiments, the first spring 404 may be a ring spring, a buckling spring, an overbent ring, or other ring configured to fold over on itself for storage. Figure 7A A first spring 404 is shown folded at a ratio of 1:3, and Figure 7B The first spring 404 is shown folded at a ratio of 1:5.

[0035] Second spring 406 is positioned within flexible material 402 and secured in place by the flexible material around the inner periphery of flexible material 402. That is, when PPBE 400 is in the deployed state, second spring 406 is a three-dimensional curve. Second spring 406 is positioned to provide shape to flexible material 402 and clearance for the passenger's nose when in the deployed state. In various embodiments, flexible material 402 may include an opening sewn around the inner periphery configured to retain and secure second spring 406. In various embodiments, second spring 406 may comprise metal, a metal alloy, carbon fiber, and / or a plastic material. In various embodiments, second spring 406 may be a ring spring, a buckling spring, an overbent ring, or other ring configured to fold over on itself for storage.

[0036] The strap 408 is coupled to a first side (e.g., in the positive y-direction) and a second side (e.g., in the negative y-direction) of the front side (e.g., in the positive x-direction) of the flexible material 402. In various embodiments, the strap 408 can be looped through a first opening formed in the first side and a second opening formed in the second side. In various embodiments, the strap 408 can be coupled to the flexible material 402 using a buckle, snap, or other fastener. In various embodiments, the length of the strap 408 can be adjustable. The strap 408 is configured to apply a force to the flexible material 402 and the first spring 404 that causes the first spring 404 and the flexible material 402 to conform to the passenger's face. In various embodiments, the strap 408 tends to urge the inner surface of the flexible material 402 toward and against the passenger's face.

[0037] The air hose 410 is coupled to the front face of the PPBE 400 (e.g., in the negative x-direction) at one end and to an oxygen source located in the passenger service unit at the other end. In various embodiments, the air hose 410 can be configured to separate from the PPBE 400 in response to a force applied to the air hose 410 away from the PPBE 400. In various embodiments, the air hose 410 can be configured to separate from the passenger service unit in response to a force applied to the air hose 410 away from the passenger service unit.

[0038] Air valve 412 is located on and extends through flexible material 402. In various embodiments, air valve 412 can be a one-way valve that only allows air to exit PPBE 400. In various embodiments, a first air valve 412 can be configured to allow exhaled breath to exit PPBE 400, and a second air valve 412 can be configured to draw in additional air from outside PPBE 400. In various embodiments, air valve 412 can comprise a two-way valve that allows air to enter and exit PPBE 400. In various embodiments, air valve 412 can comprise a filter and / or mesh to prevent debris from entering PPBE 400. In various embodiments, air valve 412 can comprise a plastic, polymer, fabric, metal, metal alloy, elastomer (e.g., silicone), and / or nylon material.

[0039] Temporary reference Figure 7A and Figure 7B , shows a diagram for folding a metal ring according to various embodiments. Figure 7A A diagram 700 is shown for folding a metal ring 702 three times, and Figure 7B A diagram 750 is shown for folding a metal ring 752 five times. In various embodiments, the metal rings 702, 752 may be as shown above. Figure 4A and Figure 4B Examples of the first spring 404 and / or the second spring 406 described in FIG. Figure 7A and Figure 7B As shown, the metal rings 702, 752 are folded onto themselves such that each metal ring 702, 752 uses less space after being folded than before being folded.

[0040] Return to Figure 4A and Figure 4B , Figure 7A and Figure 7B The folding shown in FIG can be used with the PPBE 400 to reduce the storage size of the PPBE 400, as shown in FIG. Figure 4B When a force is applied to the PPBE 400 and / or as long as there is insufficient room for expansion (e.g., stored in a bag, sleeve, slot, and / or other compartment), the PPBE 400 can maintain a smaller storage size. In various embodiments, the PPBE 400 can open or expand to a larger size in response to being released and / or provided with sufficient room for expansion. Figure 4A This allows the PPBE 400 to be stored compactly while automatically deploying for passenger use upon release.

[0041] Now refer to Figures 5A to 5E , shows a full-face passenger protective breathing equipment (“PPBE”) PPBE 500 according to various embodiments. Figure 5A An exploded view of the components of the PPBE 500 is shown. Figure 5B The PPBE 500 is shown positioned over a passenger's head. Figure 5C An alternative embodiment of a PPBE 500 is shown. Figure 5D The PPBE 500 is shown before placement and after being secured to the passenger's head 530 . Figure 5E The flexibility of the PPBE 500 is shown when placed on a passenger's head 532 , where the head 532 is larger than the head 530 .

[0042] PPBE 500 includes Figure 4A and Figure 4B Components similar to those of the PPBE 400 described in the preceding text include a first flexible material 502, a spring 504, a strap 508, an air hose 510, and an air valve 512, the description of which may not be repeated below. As described above, the spring 504 is located in the first flexible material 502 and is fixed in place by the first flexible material around the periphery of the first flexible material 502. The strap 508 is coupled to the first flexible material 502 and / or the spring 504 and is configured to pull the spring 504 and the first flexible material 502 to conform to the passenger's face. Similar to the PPBE 400 and as Figure 7A and Figure 7B As shown, the PPBE 500 is configured to fold upon itself to reduce its size for storage and to pop up or spring open for passenger use.

[0043] PPBE 500 also includes a second flexible material 516, a flexible transparent film 518, and a flexible plate 522. The components of PPBE 500 are selected so that they can be joined together as a single piece without the use of fasteners. For example, high-frequency welding, adhesives, or sealing techniques can be used to sequentially join, weld, bond, or otherwise connect first flexible material 502, spring 504, strip 508, second flexible material 516, flexible transparent film 518, and flexible plate 522. This simplifies the assembly of PPBE 500 to one or two steps, thereby reducing manufacturing costs.

[0044] The second flexible material 516 includes a similar material as the first flexible material 502. In various embodiments, the second flexible material 516 can include a similar material as the first flexible material 502. In various embodiments, the first flexible material 502 can use a different material than the second flexible material 516. The second flexible material 516 includes an opening 524 configured to receive the flexible sheet 522. In various embodiments, the second flexible material 516 can be a geometric shape, such as a triangle, square, rectangle, pentagon, hexagon, or oval, among other shapes.

[0045] The flexible transparent film 518 includes a polyimide film (eg, Kapton manufactured by DuPont), a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) material, a vinyl material, a polyetherimide (eg, ) or one or more of a translucent nylon material, etc. The flexible transparent film 518 provides protection for the eyes of passengers in emergency situations where smoke and / or other debris are present.

[0046] The flexible plate 522 is configured to hold the air valve 512 and the air hose 510. In various embodiments, the flexible plate 522 can include one or more of fabric, carbon fiber, metal, metal alloy, plastic, thermoplastic elastomer or elastomer, etc. In various embodiments, the flexible plate 522 can be coupled to the second flexible material 516 before assembling the complete PPBE 500.

[0047] In various embodiments, the combination of the second flexible material 516 and the flexible transparent film 518 can provide sufficient structure to induce a bulge away from the passenger's face (e.g., in the negative x-direction) to accommodate the passenger's nose and mouth. In various embodiments, the PPBE 500 can include a second spring that extends laterally (e.g., along the y-axis) on the PPBE 500 to provide space for the passenger's nose and provide breathing comfort.

[0048] Figure 5CPPBE 550 is shown, including components similar to PPBE 500 described above, and also including a rebreather reservoir 552. In various embodiments, rebreather reservoir 552 can store oxygen for the passenger in the event that the passenger moves from the seat and disconnects air hose 510. In various embodiments, rebreather reservoir 552 can provide a constant flow of oxygen until the next breath. During normal operation, oxygen is drawn into PPBE 550 with each breath. In various embodiments, rebreather reservoir 552 can store a portion of the oxygen received from each breath for subsequent use.

[0049] In various embodiments, the PPBE 500, 550 may also include an integrated air filter. In various embodiments, the integrated air filter may be adjacent to the second flexible material 516 or the rebreather reservoir 552. In various embodiments, the integrated air filter may be a charcoal air filter. In various embodiments, the integrated air filter may not be exposed to air until the PPBE 500, 550 is disconnected from the passenger service unit. That is, a portion of the PPBE 500, 550 may be removed or torn off in response to force applied to the air hose 510, thereby exposing the integrated air filter for use. In various embodiments, the air valve 512 may close in response to the air hose 510 being disconnected, thereby forcing air to flow through the integrated air filter.

[0050] Additionally or alternatively, in various embodiments, the PPBE 500 may further include an inflatable structure positioned adjacent to the passenger's face. That is, the inflatable structure may be positioned adjacent to and / or in place of the springs 504. In various embodiments, the inflatable structure may be inflated with a first amount of oxygen or oxygen-enriched gas received via the air hose 510 during deployment. In various embodiments, as little as 0.1 L of air at a pressure of approximately 8 mbar to approximately 9 mbar may be used to inflate the inflatable structure.

[0051] Now refer to Figure 5D and Figure 5E , the PPBE 500 is shown facing away from the passenger's face and positioned on or against the passenger's face. Figure 5D The PPBE 500 is shown in a generally flat configuration before being placed on the user's face. After the PPBE 500 is secured to the passenger's head, the PPBE 500 conforms to the passenger's face to provide a better seal between the PPBE 500 and the passenger's face. Figure 5EThe PPBE 500 is shown on a larger passenger's face, illustrating that the same PPBE 500 can conform to any size face and / or head shape. In various embodiments, the PPBE 500 can inflate in response to a supply of oxygen, thereby improving the seal of the PPBE 500 on the passenger's face and / or head.

[0052] Now refer to Figures 6A to 6G , showing the storage and use of the PPBE 500 according to various embodiments. Figures 6A to 6C A method of folding the PPBE 500 for storage is shown. Figure 6D and Figure 6E The storage of a plurality of PPBEs 500 in a passenger service unit is shown. Figure 6F and Figure 6G The storage and deployment of the PPBE 500 are shown.

[0053] Figure 6A The PPBE 500 is shown in a flat configuration 600, having been flattened to begin the packaging or storage process. Figure 6B The PPBE 500 is shown in a first folded position 602, wherein the spring 504 is bent such that the PPBE 500 including the spring 504 is folded onto itself. This process is further described in Figure 7A and Figure 7B and as described above. Figure 6C The PPBE 500 is shown folded onto itself in a storage position 604. The PPBE 500 can remain in the storage position 604 until it is deployed, at which time the PPBE 500 will unfold for use.

[0054] Figure 6D and Figure 6E Four PPBE 500 units are shown in a stored position within the mask storage compartment 620 of the passenger service unit. In various embodiments, the mask storage compartment 620 may be a Figure 3 . As shown, the four PPBE 500 units in the stowed state do not utilize the entire space of the storage compartment 620. Therefore, in various embodiments, more PPBE 500 units can be stowed in the storage compartment 620. In various embodiments, the storage compartment 620 can be designed to be smaller and provide more space for other components and / or passenger headroom in the passenger service unit.

[0055] Figure 6F and Figure 6GFIG2 shows the deployment of a PPBE 500 according to various embodiments. The PPBE 500 is stored in a storage compartment 620 and includes a pull tab 640 coupled to a portion of the PPBE 500. In an emergency, the storage compartment 620 is opened and the PPBE 500 is deployed. In various embodiments, the PPBE 500 may be automatically deployed and opened, such as Figure 6G In various embodiments, the PPBE 500 may not deploy properly, causing the passenger to pull the pull tab 640 to deploy the PPBE 500. In various embodiments, the PPBE 500 may not be configured to automatically deploy, and the passenger may pull the pull tab 640 to deploy the PPBE 500.

[0056] Benefits, other advantages, and problem solutions have been described herein with respect to specific embodiments. In addition, the connecting lines shown in the various figures included herein are intended to represent exemplary functional relationships and / or physical couplings between various elements. It should be noted that many alternative or additional functional relationships or physical connections may exist in actual systems. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any elements that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more prominent should not be interpreted as key, required, or essential features or elements of the present disclosure. The scope of the present disclosure will therefore be limited only by the appended claims, in which, unless explicitly stated to this effect, reference to an element in the singular form is not intended to mean "one and only one," but rather "one or more." In addition, where a phrase similar to "at least one of A, B, or C" is used in a claim, it is intended that the phrase be interpreted to mean that only A may be present in one embodiment, only B may be present in one embodiment, only C may be present in one embodiment, or any combination of elements A, B, and C may be present in a single embodiment; for example, A and B, A and C, B and C, or A and B and C. Different cross-hatching is used throughout the drawings to represent different parts, but does not necessarily represent the same or different materials.

[0057] Systems, methods, and apparatus are provided herein. In the detailed description herein, references to "one embodiment," "an embodiment," "various embodiments," etc. indicate that the described embodiment may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Furthermore, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in conjunction with one embodiment, it should be understood that it is within the knowledge of those skilled in the art to make such feature, structure, or characteristic work in conjunction with other embodiments, whether or not explicitly described. After reading the specification, those skilled in the relevant art will understand how to implement the present disclosure in alternative embodiments.

[0058] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the various embodiments of the present disclosure encompass that the numbers, percentages or other values described herein are intended to include the values, and also include other values that are approximately equal to or approximately equal to the values. Therefore, the values should be interpreted broadly as being sufficient to encompass values that are at least close enough to the values to perform the desired function or achieve the desired result. The values include at least the changes expected in a suitable industrial process, and may include values within 5% of the values. In addition, the terms "substantially," "about," or "approximately" as used herein represent an amount that is close to the amount and still performs the desired function or achieves the desired result. For example, the terms "substantially," "about," or "approximately" may refer to an amount within 5% of the amount or value.

[0059] In addition, an element, component, or method step in the present disclosure is not intended to be exclusive to the disclosure, regardless of whether the element, component, or method step is explicitly recited in the claims. Unless the phrase "means for..." is used to expressly recite an element, the claim elements herein should not be interpreted under the terms of 35 U.S.C. 112(f). As used herein, the terms "comprise," "include," or any other variation thereof are intended to encompass non-exclusive inclusions such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that includes a list of elements includes not only those elements but may also include other elements that are not explicitly listed or that are inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus.

[0060] Finally, it should be understood that any of the above concepts can be used alone or in combination with any or all of the other above concepts. Although various embodiments have been disclosed and described, those skilled in the art will recognize that certain modifications will be within the scope of this disclosure. Therefore, this description is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the principles described or illustrated herein to any precise form. In light of the above teachings, many modifications and variations are possible.

Claims

1. An oxygen mask, comprising: a first flexible material having a first surface and a second surface; a first spring disposed circumferentially around the first flexible material, the first spring providing structural support for the oxygen mask along a first plane, wherein the first flexible material and the first spring define an interior of the oxygen mask; an air valve configured to allow air to pass between the interior of the oxygen mask and an exterior of the oxygen mask; an air hose coupled to the oxygen mask and configured to allow air to flow into the oxygen mask; as well as A strap is coupled to the first flexible material and the first spring, wherein the strap is configured to pull the first flexible material and the first spring to conform to a 3D surface.

2. The oxygen mask according to claim 1, further comprising: A second spring is disposed laterally across the first flexible material and provides structural support for the oxygen mask along a second plane orthogonal to the first plane.

3. The oxygen mask of claim 1 , wherein the air valve is coupled to the first flexible material.

4. The oxygen mask of claim 1 , wherein the air hose is coupled to the first flexible material.

5. The oxygen mask of claim 1 , further comprising: a second flexible material including an opening formed therethrough, the second flexible material defining a first portion of the oxygen mask; as well as A flexible transparent film is coupled to the second flexible material, the flexible transparent film defining a second portion of the oxygen mask.

6. The oxygen mask according to claim 5, further comprising: A flexible plate is coupled to the second flexible material and is configured to cover the opening formed in the second flexible material, wherein the air hose is coupled to the flexible plate, and wherein the air valve is coupled to the flexible plate.

7. The oxygen mask of claim 1, wherein the air hose is configured to detach from the oxygen mask in response to a force applied to the air hose.

8. A full-face oxygen mask, comprising: a first flexible material including a first opening formed therethrough, the first flexible material piece being configured to contact a face of an occupant with the face of the occupant passing through the first opening; a first spring coupled to the first flexible material and disposed around a periphery of the first flexible material, the first spring configured to provide support for the first flexible material in a first plane; a second flexible material coupled to the first spring and the first flexible material, the second flexible material including a second opening formed therethrough; a flexible transparent film coupled to the first flexible material and the second flexible material, wherein the second flexible material and the flexible transparent film are configured to provide support for the full-face oxygen mask in a second plane orthogonal to the first plane; a flexible plate coupled to the second flexible material and covering the second opening; an air hose coupled to the flexible plate and configured to provide air to the full-face oxygen mask; an air valve coupled to the flexible sheet and configured to allow air to pass through the flexible sheet; A strap is coupled to the first flexible material and the first spring, the strap being configured to secure the full-face oxygen mask to a 3D surface including conforming the first flexible material and the first spring to the 3D surface.

9. The full-face oxygen mask according to claim 8, further comprising: a rebreather reservoir coupled to the first flexible material and the second flexible material, the rebreather reservoir configured to store a quantity of air for use after disconnecting the air hose; a second spring coupled to the second flexible material and the flexible transparent membrane, the second spring providing structural support in the second plane; an inflatable structure coupled to the first flexible material and configured to inflate in response to air from the air hose, wherein the inflatable structure is disposed circumferentially around the first flexible material; An integrated air filter is disposed between the first flexible material and the second flexible material, wherein the integrated air filter is exposed to air in response to the air hose being disconnected from the full-face oxygen mask.

10. The full face oxygen mask of claim 9, wherein the integrated air filter comprises activated filter media.

11. The full face oxygen mask of claim 8, wherein the first flexible material has an oval shape and the second flexible material has a geometric shape.

12. An oronasal passenger mask, comprising: a first flexible material having a first surface and a second surface; a first spring disposed circumferentially around the first flexible material, the first spring providing structural support for the oronasal passenger mask along a first plane, wherein the first flexible material and the first spring define an interior of the oronasal passenger mask; a second spring disposed transversely across the first flexible material and providing structural support for the oronasal passenger mask along a second plane orthogonal to the first plane; an air valve coupled to the first flexible material and configured to allow air to flow from the interior of the oronasal passenger mask to the exterior of the oronasal passenger mask; an air hose coupled to the first flexible material and configured to allow air to flow into the oronasal passenger mask; as well as A strap is coupled to the first flexible material and the first spring.

13. The oronasal passenger mask of claim 12 , wherein a first portion of the first flexible material extends from a first side to overlap a second portion of the first flexible material extending from a second side opposite the first side, wherein the first spring and the second spring are configured to fold over upon themselves into a stored state, wherein the strap is configured to pull the first flexible material and the first spring to conform to a 3D surface.

14. The oronasal passenger mask of claim 13, wherein the first spring and the second spring are configured to deploy the oronasal passenger mask from the stored state to a deployed state for use.

15. The oronasal passenger mask of claim 12, further comprising: An integrated air filter is provided, wherein the integrated air filter is exposed in response to the air hose being removed.

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