Thermal alarm handling

Abstract

The invention relates to thermal alarm handling. A computer-implemented method for processing thermal alarms associated with a wearer of a network of breathing devices is provided. The method includes generating (110) one or more first thermal alarms and second thermal alarms based on a thermal feature profile indicative of thermal exposure of a wearer of the breathing device. The generating includes generating a first thermal alert at the breathing apparatus if the thermal feature profile meets a first criterion; and initiating transmission of information indicative of a second thermal alert to a network node of the network if the thermal feature profile meets a second criterion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to methods for handling thermal alarms and apparatus configured to operate according to these methods. Background Art

[0002] Emergency services (e.g., fire services) are organizations that ensure public safety, security, and health by responding to and resolving a variety of emergency situations. Therefore, when handling emergency response incidents, emergency services need to leverage every possible advantage. This is particularly true as emergency services are called upon to respond to increasingly complex incidents. In reality, emergency response incidents can involve many individuals, including responders and members of the public, and responders are often equipped with specialized equipment that must be carefully monitored and maintained to ensure responder safety. For example, fire services often deal with toxic environments caused by combustible materials, which result in smoke, oxygen depletion, elevated temperatures, toxic atmospheres, and strong drafts. To overcome some of these risks, firefighters carry breathing apparatus (BA). Proper management of this specialized equipment can mean the difference between a successful incident resolution and a disaster.

[0003] Additionally, emergency services must be prepared to adapt to a range of different environments (e.g., natural and man-made), which creates further challenges in organizing and effectively handling incidents. Consequently, mismanagement of such incidents could result in serious harm to the public and irreparable damage to infrastructure.

[0004] In the past, emergency services (e.g., fire services) relied on analog tools to monitor and control the handling of emergency response incidents. For example, an entry control officer (ECO) would typically use a physical board (e.g., an entry control board (ECB)) to record the status of firefighters dispatched to an incident (e.g., a building fire scene). In this case, the ECO monitors the incident by physically organizing the board with the help of "tags" that visually display the name of the firefighter dispatched to the incident and the time the firefighter was involved in the incident. Thus, a tag can be a physical element that is added to or removed from the board to enable the ECO to track the personnel dispatched to the incident. Adding a physical tag to the board can serve as an incident registration for the corresponding firefighter. In addition to the physical board, the ECO also typically uses an intercom to manually control the incident and receive updates on the status of the personnel.

[0005] In recent years, some emergency services have adopted telemetry technologies that provide enhanced communications between personnel dispatched to an incident. Specifically, emergency service personnel may be equipped with a device that is capable of communicating (e.g., wirelessly) with other personnel and can share information describing the status of the person wearing the device as well as the status of the device itself. Thus, emergency service personnel may be equipped with a device that is capable of transmitting important information to the ECO in real time, which allows the ECO more time to make tactical, potentially life-saving decisions. Therefore, the use of technologies that enhance communications provides significant advantages to the overall safety of personnel involved in an incident and provides greater protection for responding personnel during the dispatch process.

[0006] Being able to monitor the physical state of a BA wearer is useful, particularly if the BA wearer is involved in an emergency response incident. Indeed, a BA wearer may be required to work in hazardous environments (e.g., a burning building), which exposes the wearer to danger. Specifically, BA wearers (e.g., firefighters) are often exposed to extremely high temperatures for extended periods of time. This exposure can lead to excessive stress and heat exhaustion, effects that are often not immediately apparent but can have long-term consequences. In critical scenarios with direct exposure to flames (e.g., such as rescue operations and evacuation in the event of a flashover), the wearer may be immediately injured and the BA may also be damaged. Therefore, it is desirable to provide improved techniques for monitoring the physical state of a BA wearer that accurately determine whether the wearer's heat exposure has reached a dangerous level and that shorten the time interval between an event sufficient to trigger an alarm and the necessary entities obtaining the required information to properly handle the event. Summary of the Invention

[0007] As noted above, it would be desirable to provide improved techniques for monitoring the physical condition of a BA wearer, particularly when the wearer is susceptible to potentially dangerous levels of heat exposure.

[0008] Thus, according to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a method for handling a thermal alarm associated with a wearer of a respiratory device in a network is provided. The method is computer-implemented. The method comprises generating one or more first and second thermal alarms based on a thermal signature profile indicative of thermal exposure of the wearer of the respiratory device. Generating comprises: generating the first thermal alarm at the respiratory device if the thermal signature profile satisfies a first criterion; and initiating transmission of information indicating the second thermal alarm to a network node in the network if the thermal signature profile satisfies a second criterion.

[0009] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an entity comprising processing circuitry configured to operate according to the method described herein.

[0010] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a computer program product embodied on a non-transitory machine-readable medium, wherein the computer program product comprises instructions executable by a processing circuit to cause the processing circuit to perform the method described herein.

[0011] Thus, improved techniques for handling heat alarms associated with wearers of breathing apparatus in a network are provided. These techniques are improved because they (e.g., a BA wearer and / or incident commander) do not need to manually monitor heat exposure and minimize the delay between a wearer being exposed to potentially dangerous heat exposure and taking remedial action (e.g., evacuating the wearer from the incident scene). These improved techniques also shorten the delay between the occurrence of severe heat exposure to a BA wearer and the receipt of such information by other entities in the network (e.g., network nodes controlled by the incident commander). In this way, other entities in the network can be quickly notified when a BA wearer has been exposed to heat that requires urgent action (e.g., to prevent serious injury to the wearer). Thus, these techniques can generate an alert that enables the wearer and other members of the network to make time-critical decisions (e.g., deciding whether to evacuate from the incident scene) to ensure the health and safety of the wearer. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] Exemplary embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0013] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an entity according to an embodiment;

[0014] Figure 2 is a block diagram illustrating a method according to an embodiment;

[0015] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a system according to an embodiment;

[0016] Figure 4 is a block diagram illustrating a breathing apparatus according to an embodiment;

[0017] Figure 5 and Figure 6 is a block diagram illustrating a method according to some embodiments;

[0018] Figures 7A-7C is a graph showing a thermal signature profile of a BA wearer; and

[0019] Figure 7D is a graph showing the relationship between temperature and time. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] Some embodiments contemplated herein will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, other embodiments are within the scope of the subject matter disclosed herein, and the disclosed subject matter should not be construed as being limited to only the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided by way of example to convey the scope of the subject matter to those skilled in the art.

[0021] As described above, a technique is provided herein for handling thermal alerts associated with wearers of respiratory devices in a network.

[0022] The BA referred to herein may be any type of BA. For example, the BA referred to herein may be configured to perform the methods described herein. More broadly, a BA may be any device (e.g., an apparatus) worn by a wearer of the BA, the purpose of which is to provide the wearer with a supply of breathing gas (e.g., air). Therefore, a BA may play an important role in environments where there is an immediate danger to life or health. In an embodiment, the BA referred to herein may be a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and / or a compressed air breathing apparatus (CABA). The BA referred to herein may be a closed-circuit BA. Alternatively, the BA referred to herein may be an open-circuit BA. The BA referred to herein may include a lung demand regulator, a mask, a compressed breathing gas cylinder, and / or a support frame.

[0023] The techniques described herein may be used with any network, such as any communication or telecommunication network, for example, a cellular network. The network referred to herein may be a radio network. In some embodiments, the network may include a Wi-Fi network (e.g., based on the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11 family of standards). Alternatively or additionally, the network may include a Bluetooth network (e.g., based on the IEEE 802.15.1 family of standards). Any one or more of the entities referred to herein, the respiratory devices referred to herein, and the network nodes referred to herein may communicate (e.g., directly or indirectly) via the network described herein.

[0024] A thermal alarm may be described herein as a warning (e.g., of danger). A thermal alarm may include an alarm and / or a distress signal. For example, a thermal alarm may indicate that the heat exposure of a wearer of a respiratory device has reached a predefined level. For example, a thermal alarm may warn the wearer that their heat exposure has reached an unsafe level, or that their heat exposure is close to reaching an unsafe level. As described herein, the generation of a thermal alarm is based on a thermal signature profile.

[0025] As mentioned herein, a thermal signature profile indicates the thermal exposure of a wearer of a respiratory device. A thermal signature profile may include information indicating the total thermal exposure to which the wearer is subjected. For example, a thermal signature profile may include a set of data points indicating changes in the wearer's thermal exposure over time. A thermal signature profile may be determined (e.g., calculated) based (e.g., conditionally) on one or more temperature measurements corresponding to the wearer's respiratory device. The temperature measurements (e.g., the amount of change in the measured temperature) may be used to determine a thermal coefficient. In some embodiments, the thermal coefficient may be used to determine one or more step gradients that may be used to represent (e.g., plot) the thermal load on the wearer of the respiratory device. In this manner, a thermal signature profile for the wearer may be determined (e.g., calculated).

[0026] Figure 1 Entity 100 according to an embodiment is shown. Entity 100 can be used to process event information in a network. Entity 100 can be included in (e.g., be part of) a respiratory device as described herein. Alternatively, entity 100 can be the respiratory device as described herein. In some cases, entity 100 can be coupled to a BA as described herein. For example, entity 100 can be a separate entity (e.g., a control unit) coupled to a BA as described herein.

[0027] like Figure 1 As shown, entity 100 includes processing circuitry (or logic) 102. Processing circuitry 102 controls the operation of entity 100 and may implement the methods described herein with respect to entity 100. Processing circuitry 102 may be configured or programmed to control entity 100 in the manner described herein.

[0028] Processing circuitry 102 may include one or more hardware components, such as one or more processors (e.g., one or more microprocessors, one or more multi-core processors, and / or one or more digital signal processors (DSPs)), one or more processing units, one or more processing modules, and / or one or more controllers (e.g., one or more microcontrollers). The one or more hardware components may be arranged on one or more printed circuit board assemblies (PCBAs), which are housed in one or more housing assemblies. The one or more hardware components may be configured or programmed (e.g., using software or computer program code) to perform the various functions described herein with respect to entity 100. In a specific implementation, each of the one or more hardware components may be configured to perform or be used to perform a single step or multiple steps of the method described herein with respect to entity 100. Processing circuitry 102 may be configured to execute software to perform the method described herein with respect to entity 100. Processing circuitry 102 may therefore be implemented in a variety of ways using software and / or hardware to perform the various functions described herein with respect to entity 100.

[0029] Briefly, the processing circuit 102 of the entity 100 is configured to generate one or more first and second thermal alarms based on a thermal signature profile indicative of thermal exposure of a wearer of a respiratory device. The generating includes: generating a first thermal alarm at the respiratory device if the thermal signature profile satisfies a first criterion; and initiating transmission of information indicating a second thermal alarm to a network node in the network if the thermal signature profile satisfies a second criterion.

[0030] like Figure 1 As shown, entity 100 may optionally include memory 104. Alternatively, memory 104 may be external to entity 100 (e.g., separate or remote from entity 100). Memory 104 may include any type of non-transitory machine-readable medium, such as at least one cache or system memory. Memory 104 may include volatile or non-volatile memory. Examples of memory 104 include, but are not limited to, random access memory (RAM), static RAM (SRAM), dynamic RAM (DRAM), read-only memory (ROM), programmable ROM (PROM), erasable PROM (EPROM), electrically erasable PROM (EEPROM), and / or any other memory.

[0031] Processing circuit 102 is communicatively coupled (e.g., connected) to memory 104. Processing circuit 102 may be configured to communicate with and / or connect to memory 104. Memory 104 may be used to store program code or instructions that, when executed by processing circuit 102, cause entity 100 to operate in the manner described herein. For example, memory 104 may be configured to store program code or instructions that, when executed by processing circuit 102, cause entity 100 to operate in accordance with the methods described herein with respect to entity 100. Alternatively or additionally, memory 104 may be configured to store any information, data, messages, requests, responses, instructions, notifications, signals, or the like described herein. Processing circuit 102 may be configured to control memory 104 to store information, data, messages, requests, responses, instructions, notifications, signals, or the like described herein.

[0032] like Figure 1 As shown, entity 100 may optionally include a user interface 106. User interface 106 may be configured to present (or output, display or provide) information required for or generated by the method described herein. For example, user interface 106 may be configured to present (or output, display or provide) any information, data, message, request, response, instruction, notification, signal or the like described herein. Alternatively or additionally, user interface 106 may be configured to receive user input. For example, user interface 106 may allow a user to manually input information or instructions, interact with entity 100, and / or control entity 100. Therefore, user interface 106 may be a user interface that enables presentation (or output, display or provide) information and / or enables a user to provide user input.

[0033] The user interface 106 may include one or more components for presenting information and / or one or more components for enabling a user to provide user input. The one or more components for presenting information may include one or more visual components (e.g., a display or display screen, a graphical user interface (GUI) (such as a touch screen), one or more light sources (such as one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs) and / or any other visual components), one or more audio components (e.g., one or more speakers, and / or any other audio components), and / or one or more tactile / tactile components (e.g., a vibration function or any other tactile / tactile component), or any other user interface, or a combination of user interfaces. The one or more components for enabling a user to provide user input may include one or more visual components (e.g., one or more switches, one or more buttons, a keyboard, a mouse, a graphical user interface (GUI) such as a touch screen, and / or any other visual components), and / or one or more audio components (e.g., one or more microphones, and / or any other audio components), and / or one or more tactile / tactile components (e.g., a vibration function, or any other tactile / tactile component), or any other user interface, or a combination of user interfaces.

[0034] like Figure 1 As shown, entity 100 may optionally include a communication interface (or communication circuitry) 108. Communication interface 108 may be communicatively coupled (e.g., connected) to processing circuitry 102, memory 104, and / or user interface 106. Although communication interface 108 and user interface 106 are illustrated as separate interfaces, in other embodiments, communication interface 108 may be part of user interface 106. Processing circuitry 102 may be configured to communicate with and / or connect to communication interface 108. In some embodiments, processing circuitry 102 may be configured to control communication interface 108 to operate in the manner described herein. Communication interface 108 may be used to enable entity 100, or components of entity 100 (e.g., processing circuitry 102, memory 104, user interface 106, and / or any other component of entity 100), to communicate with and / or connect to each other and / or one or more other components.

[0035] For example, the communication interface 108 can be operated to enable the processing circuit 102 to communicate and / or connect with the memory 104 and / or vice versa. Similarly, the communication interface 108 can be operated to enable the processing circuit 102 to communicate and / or connect with the user interface 106 and / or vice versa. Similarly, the communication interface 108 can be operated to enable the processing circuit 102 to communicate and / or connect with any one or more other entities mentioned herein (e.g., any one or more of the respiratory devices mentioned herein, the network nodes mentioned herein, or any other entities). The communication interface 108 can be configured to transmit and / or receive information, data, messages, requests, responses, instructions, notifications, signals, or the like as described herein. The processing circuit 102 can be configured to control the communication interface 108 to transmit and / or receive information, data, messages, requests, responses, instructions, notifications, signals, or the like as described herein.

[0036] The communication interface 108 may enable the entity 100 or components of the entity 100 to communicate and / or connect in any suitable manner. For example, the communication interface 108 may enable the entity 100 or components of the entity 100 to communicate and / or connect wirelessly, via a wired connection, or via any other communication (or data transfer) mechanism. For example, in some wireless implementations, the communication interface 108 may enable the entity 100 or components of the entity 100 to communicate and / or connect using radio frequency (RF), Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or any other wireless communication technology.

[0037] Although entity 100 is Figure 1 104, it should be understood that the entity 100 may include at least one memory (i.e., one memory or multiple memories) 104 that operate in the manner described herein. Figure 1 106, it should be understood that the entity 100 may include at least one user interface (i.e., one user interface or multiple user interfaces) 106 that operate in the manner described herein. Figure 1 108, it is understood that the entity 100 may include at least one communication interface (i.e., one communication interface or multiple communication interfaces) 108 that operate in the manner described herein. Figure 1 Only components necessary to illustrate an embodiment of the entity 100 are shown, and in actual implementation, the entity 100 may include other or alternative components in addition to the components shown in the figure.

[0038] Figure 2A method according to an embodiment is shown. The method is for handling a thermal alarm associated with a wearer of a respiratory device. Figure 1 The described entity 100 may be configured as described in reference Figure 2 The method described herein operates as follows. For example, the method may be performed by or under the control of the processing circuit 102 of the entity 100. The method is computer-implemented.

[0039] refer to Figure 2 At block 110, one or more first and second thermal alarms are generated based on a thermal signature profile indicative of heat exposure of the wearer of the respiratory device. Entity 100 (e.g., processing circuitry 102 of entity 100) may generate one or more first and second thermal alarms. If the thermal signature profile satisfies a first criterion, the generating includes generating a first thermal alarm at the respiratory device. If the thermal signature profile satisfies a second criterion, the generating includes initiating transmission of information indicative of a second thermal alarm to a network node in the network. Entity 100 (e.g., processing circuitry 102 of entity 100) may initiate transmission of information to the network node (e.g., via communication interface 108 of entity 100). Thus, two levels of alarms may be triggered based on the thermal signature profile indicative of heat exposure of the wearer of the respiratory device. The first thermal alarm may be referred to herein as a "level one alarm" and / or a "pre-alarm." The second thermal alarm may be referred to herein as a "level two alarm." The first and / or second criteria may be configured to prevent excessive heat exposure of the wearer of the respiratory device.

[0040] As used herein, the term "initiate" may refer to, for example, causing or establishing. Thus, any reference to an entity "initiating a transmission" should be understood to mean that the entity (e.g., processing circuitry of the entity) may be configured to transmit itself (e.g., via a communication interface of the entity) or may be configured to cause another entity to transmit.

[0041] As described above, generating a thermal alarm (e.g., a second thermal alarm) may include initiating transmission of information indicating the thermal alarm to a network node. Thus, generating a thermal alarm may include initiating transmission of information indicating the thermal alarm to a network node such that the alarm may be output by the network node (e.g., via a user interface of the network node).

[0042] In some embodiments, the thermal signature profile may satisfy the first criterion if the thermal signature profile indicates that the thermal exposure is greater than or equal to a first exposure threshold and less than a second exposure threshold. The first exposure threshold may be referred to herein as the "primary threshold." In some embodiments, the thermal signature profile may satisfy the second criterion if the thermal signature profile indicates that the thermal exposure is greater than or equal to a second exposure threshold. Thus, in some embodiments, the second criterion may be associated with a higher amount of thermal exposure than the first criterion. The second exposure threshold may be referred to herein as the "secondary threshold." The first exposure threshold and / or the second exposure threshold may be preconfigured (before the wearer uses the respiratory device). The first exposure threshold and / or the second exposure threshold may be constant. The first exposure threshold may be configured based on the second exposure threshold. For example, the first exposure threshold may be configured to correspond to (e.g., approximately) 50% of the amount of thermal exposure corresponding to the second exposure threshold. In some embodiments, if the wearer's thermal signature profile indicates a constant increase in thermal exposure, the time it takes for the wearer's thermal exposure to reach the first exposure threshold may correspond to half the time it takes for the wearer's thermal exposure to reach the second exposure threshold. Thus, the time it takes for the wearer's thermal exposure to reach the first exposure threshold and / or the second exposure threshold may depend on the (e.g., ambient) temperature that the wearer (e.g., and the BA) are exposed to. The entity 100 (e.g., the processing circuitry of the entity 100) may be configured to store the first criterion and the second criterion (e.g., in the memory 104 of the entity 100).

[0043] The first thermal alert may indicate that the wearer's heat exposure is approaching a heat exposure threshold. "Approaching" a heat exposure threshold may be defined herein as: the wearer's heat exposure is within a certain percentage of the heat exposure threshold (e.g., 1%, 2%, 5%, 10%, 20%, etc.), and / or the wearer's heat exposure (e.g., at the current rate of increase in heat exposure) will reach or exceed the heat exposure threshold within a specific time (e.g., 1 second, 2 seconds, 5 seconds, 10 seconds, 20 seconds, etc.). For example, the heat exposure threshold may correspond to the first exposure threshold referred to herein.

[0044] In some embodiments, the thermal exposure of a BA wearer may not be a single value. For example, a thermal signature profile of a BA wearer may indicate a thermal exposure function. The thermal exposure function may be a function of ambient temperature and / or thermal radiation (e.g., thermal radiation generated in the environment of the BA wearer) as defined herein. Thus, a thermal signature profile as referred to herein may include one or more (e.g., a series of) temperature measurements that indicate the thermal exposure of the BA wearer. Thus, in some embodiments, one or more temperature measurements may be used to determine (e.g., estimate) the thermal exposure of the BA wearer. Details on how temperature may affect the thermal exposure of a BA wearer may be found in "Measurements of the Firefighting Environment" by J. Foster et al.

[0045] The first thermal alarm can be configured to indicate to the BA wearer that the wearer is about to exceed a recommended heat exposure limit. The recommended heat exposure limit can be an industry standard heat exposure limit. In some embodiments, the first thermal alarm can be generated only at the breathing apparatus. That is, in these embodiments, the first thermal alarm (and / or information indicating the first thermal alarm) may not be transmitted to another entity in the network (e.g., a network node as referred to herein). The first thermal alarm may be associated with a lower heat exposure than the second thermal alarm, and therefore the first thermal alarm may only need to be generated at the breathing apparatus to enable the wearer to take corrective action (e.g., move to a cooler environment). In embodiments where the first thermal alarm is generated only at the breathing apparatus, other entities and / or nodes in the network (e.g., nodes operated by an incident commander) may only receive the alarm information indicating that the BA wearer needs assistance. In this way, other entities and / or nodes in the network only receive information that requires intervention (e.g., initiating a rescue operation to save the BA wearer and / or sending evacuation instructions to the breathing apparatus).

[0046] The second alarm can indicate that the wearer's heat exposure has exceeded a heat exposure threshold. As described herein, if the thermal signature profile meets the second criterion, information indicating the second heat alarm is transmitted to a network node in the network. Therefore, generating a second heat alarm can include notifying other entities and / or nodes in the network that the wearer's heat exposure has exceeded a heat exposure threshold. In this way, an incident commander (e.g., operating a network node) can be made aware that the wearer has been subjected to excessive heat exposure. Therefore, the incident commander can initiate corrective measures to protect the health and safety of the wearer of the breathing apparatus. In some embodiments, the second heat alarm can instruct the wearer to evacuate the environment in which he or she is located (e.g., a burning building).

[0047] Generating a first thermal alert can include, for example, generating a notification indicating the first thermal alert via an output of the respiratory device. Alternatively or additionally, generating a second thermal alert can include, for example, generating a notification indicating the second thermal alert via an output of the respiratory device. Thus, in some embodiments, entity 100 can be configured to cause the respiratory device to generate an output (e.g., a notification). Thus, the first thermal alert and / or the second thermal alert can be notified to a wearer of the respiratory device via the output of the respiratory device. In this way, the wearer can be made aware of potential dangers associated with heat exposure to which the wearer is subjected.

[0048] In some embodiments, the notification indicating the first thermal alarm and / or the notification indicating the second thermal alarm may include one or more of a visual notification, an auditory notification, and a tactile notification. For example, generating a visual notification indicating the thermal alarm may include outputting a (e.g., flashing) light signal via a light source of the respiratory apparatus, and / or displaying information indicating the thermal alarm (via a user interface of the respiratory apparatus). For example, generating an auditory notification indicating the thermal alarm may include outputting an audio signal indicating the thermal alarm (e.g., an alarm sound and / or a voice recording). For example, generating a tactile notification indicating the thermal alarm may include actuating a vibrating element (e.g., a user interface) of the respiratory apparatus.

[0049] In some embodiments, the method may include terminating the generation of the first thermal alarm in response to input obtained through a user interface of the respiratory device. Thus, in some embodiments, the wearer of the respiratory device may be able to (e.g., manually) dismiss the first thermal alarm. The user interface of the respiratory device may include a button and / or a touch screen of the respiratory device. In embodiments where entity 100 is a respiratory device, the user interface may be user interface 106 of entity 100.

[0050] In some embodiments, generation of the second thermal alarm cannot be terminated via a user interface of the respiratory device. Thus, in these embodiments, the wearer of the respiratory device may not be able to (e.g., manually) dismiss the second thermal alarm. For example, the second thermal alarm may be dismissed only when the thermal signature profile no longer meets the second criterion.

[0051] The information indicating the second thermal alert may include an identifier of the wearer that initiated the transmission of the second thermal alert to the network node. For example, the identifier may include a unique string (e.g., a string of numbers and / or letters) that identifies the wearer of the respiratory device. Thus, the information indicating the second thermal alert may enable the network node to identify the wearer of the respiratory device. In this manner, an operator of the network node (e.g., an incident commander) may be informed of the wearer associated with the second thermal alert and, therefore, may be able to take appropriate corrective action.

[0052] The method may include generating a thermal signature profile. For example, entity 100 (e.g., processing circuitry 102 of entity 100) may be configured to generate a thermal signature profile. The thermal signature profile indicates the thermal exposure of the wearer of the respiratory device, and therefore, in some embodiments, the thermal signature profile may be generated based on the environment in which the wearer of the respiratory device is operating. Generating the thermal signature profile may include determining (e.g., measuring) the ambient temperature of the respiratory device. The ambient temperature of the respiratory device may be defined herein as the temperature of the environment of the respiratory device. For example, the ambient temperature of the respiratory device may be the temperature of the air surrounding the respiratory device. The ambient temperature may be determined continuously and / or periodically. For example, the ambient temperature may be determined every second. Determining the ambient temperature of the respiratory device may include, for example, obtaining ambient temperature information from a temperature sensor coupled to the respiratory device. The ambient temperature information may include an ambient temperature value. The respiratory device may include (e.g., externally or internally) a temperature sensor.

[0053] Generating a thermal signature profile may include determining whether the ambient temperature of the respiratory device is equal to or greater than a first threshold temperature value. The first threshold temperature value may be a preconfigured temperature value. For example, the first threshold temperature value may be 40°C. The first temperature value may be (re)configured (e.g., by a user). Entity 100 (e.g., processing circuitry 102 of entity 100) may store the first threshold temperature value (e.g., in memory 104 of entity 100). Determining that the ambient temperature is equal to or greater than the first threshold temperature value may initiate the generation of the thermal signature profile. In this manner, whenever the ambient temperature reaches a minimum temperature (e.g., a temperature that is high enough to cause dangerous heat exposure to the wearer), the generation of the thermal signature profile may be triggered. Therefore, the first threshold temperature value may be referred to herein as a "minimum temperature threshold."

[0054] Generating the thermal signature profile can include determining a thermal coefficient based on the ambient temperature. A temporal discrete thermal exposure of the wearer of the respiratory device can be determined based on the thermal coefficient. For example, the thermal coefficient can be used to determine a (e.g., positive) step gradient. The step gradient can indicate a transient thermal load experienced by the wearer of the respiratory device. A positive step gradient indicates that the wearer's thermal load increases over time. A larger positive step gradient can indicate a higher criticality of the wearer's ambient conditions.

[0055] Generating the thermal signature profile can include determining a temporal discrete thermal exposure of a wearer of the respiratory device based on the thermal coefficient. Determining the temporal discrete thermal exposure of the wearer can include integrating one or more step gradients (e.g., determined in the manner described above). The result of the integration can correspond to the temporal discrete thermal exposure of the wearer. In some embodiments, the temporal discrete thermal exposure can be used to determine whether the thermal signature profile meets a first criterion and / or a second criterion. For example, the result of the integration can be compared to the first criterion and / or the second criterion to determine whether a first thermal alarm and / or a second thermal alarm should be generated (e.g., triggered).

[0056] The generation of a thermal signature profile may be based on the temperature data shown in Table 1 below. Table 1 shows recommended (e.g., safe) times that a wearer of a BA may be exposed to different temperatures. The times shown in Table 1 may indicate the time it takes for the wearer's thermal signature profile to meet the second criterion, as defined herein. For example, if the wearer is exposed to a constant temperature of 80°C, the wearer's thermal signature profile may indicate that the wearer's thermal exposure has met the second criterion once the wearer has been exposed to that temperature for 20 minutes.

[0057] Temperature (℃) Time (minutes) 80 20 120 10 160 6 200 3.5 250 2 300 1

[0058] Table 1

[0059] The method described herein can be performed upon activation of the breathing apparatus. Thus, once the breathing apparatus is activated, the method can be performed automatically without user intervention and continuously until the breathing apparatus is deactivated. The network referred to herein can be, for example, a radio network.

[0060] As described above, some methods described herein can monitor the temperature of the environment surrounding a respiratory device (eg, over time), create a temperature signature profile, and trigger a thermal alarm after heat exposure exceeds a certain (eg, predefined) limit.

[0061] A system is also provided. The system may include any one or more of the entity 100 described herein, the respiratory apparatus described herein, and the network node described herein.

[0062] Figure 3 A system according to an embodiment is presented. Figure 3 The system shown in FIG includes a breathing apparatus 200, a base station 202, and a user 204. Figure 3 In the illustrated embodiment, the respiratory apparatus 200 may include the entity 100 described herein, and / or the entity 100 described herein may be the respiratory apparatus 200. Figure 3In the illustrated embodiment, the respiratory device 200 is one of a plurality of respiratory devices. However, it should be understood that this is merely an embodiment, and the methods described herein may be applicable to any number of respiratory devices (e.g., one or more). The base station 202 may include, and / or may be, a network node as mentioned herein. Although Figure 3 The embodiment shown in FIG includes only a single base station 202, but it should be understood that according to other embodiments, the network may include any number of base stations (e.g., one or more). Figure 3 , but in some embodiments, the network node referred to herein may be a wireless device (e.g., user equipment (UE)) associated with user 204. In these embodiments, the base station may be configured to route communications between respiratory apparatus 200 and the network node (e.g., wireless device).

[0063] Base station 202 can communicate with respiratory device 200 (e.g., via a dedicated wireless connection) to (e.g., periodically) obtain various (e.g., telemetry) data. The data may include information indicating that an immediate, automatic alarm should be issued. The alarm may be associated with one or more (e.g., various) events occurring at respiratory device 200.

[0064] like Figure 3 As shown by arrow 212, base station 202 (eg, a network node) may be configured to communicate with respiratory device 200. For example, respiratory device 200 may initiate transmission of information indicating a second thermal alarm as defined herein to base station 202. Figure 3 As shown in blocks 206 and 208 of FIG. 2 , the respiratory device 200 and the base station 202 may communicate via a radio network. Communication via a radio network may be referred to herein as "telemetry radio" communication.

[0065] Respiratory apparatus 200 may be configured to monitor parameters and / or conditions. For example, respiratory apparatus 200 may be configured to monitor the condition of the wearer of respiratory apparatus 200. Alternatively or additionally, respiratory apparatus 200 may be configured to monitor the condition of respiratory apparatus 200 itself (e.g., the remaining amount of breathable gas stored within respiratory apparatus 200). In some embodiments, respiratory apparatus 200 may be configured to monitor the environment in which respiratory apparatus 200 is located (e.g., by monitoring ambient air temperature as described herein). Respiratory apparatus 200 may, for example, continuously obtain (e.g., collect) information regarding its condition, the wearer, and / or its environment. This information may include, for example, one or more of: ambient air temperature, residual pressure (e.g., of respiratory apparatus 200), motion information (e.g., of the wearer), and position information (e.g., of respiratory apparatus 200 and / or the wearer). The information obtained by respiratory apparatus 200 may be used to generate (e.g., create) a profile regarding the environment and / or the wearer. Thus, the obtained information and / or generated profile may be used to trigger (e.g., automatically) an alarm (e.g., a heat alarm as described herein). Thus, breathing apparatus 200 may be configured to transmit emergency information to other nodes and / or entities in the network.In some embodiments, breathing apparatus 200 may be configured to allow the wearer to manually trigger an alarm and / or a retrieval signal.

[0066] like Figure 3 As shown, the base station 202 may include a user interface 210. Thus, in some embodiments, the base station 202 may be configured to generate an alert (eg, the second thermal alert described herein) via the user interface 210. Figure 3 As shown by arrow 214, user 204 can be informed of the alarm generated at base station 202 through user interface 210. Therefore, user 204 (e.g., an incident control operator, such as an ECO) can be informed of a potential life-threatening incident (e.g., an incident occurring at an incident site where breathing apparatus 200 is located) and can take appropriate remedial measures accordingly.

[0067] Although the user interface 210 is Figure 3 202, but it should be understood that this is only one embodiment, and in other embodiments, the user interface 210 may be included in the wireless device described above (e.g., separate from the base station 202). The wireless device may correspond to the network node mentioned herein. For example, information indicating the second alarm may be transmitted to the wireless device (e.g., via the base station 202).

[0068] Figure 4 is a block diagram illustrating a respiratory apparatus 300 according to an embodiment. Figure 4As shown in the embodiment shown in , the breathing apparatus 300 may include the entity 100 referred to herein ("electronic control unit"), a user interface 304, a communication interface 310 ("telemetry radio"), and a temperature sensor 306. Figure 4 In the embodiment shown, the entity 100 is included in the breathing apparatus 300, however, it should be understood that this is merely an embodiment and that in other embodiments, the entity 100 may be separate from the breathing apparatus 300. Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments, the entity 100 may be a control unit.

[0069] like Figure 4 As shown by arrow 312, respiratory device 300 may be configured to be worn by wearer 302. Thus, respiratory device 300 may include a securing device (e.g., a frame and / or a harness) configured to attach respiratory device 300 to wearer 302. Figure 4 As shown, the respiratory device 300 may include a user interface 304. In some embodiments, an alarm (e.g., the first heat alarm referred to herein and / or the second heat alarm referred to herein) may be generated via the user interface 304 of the respiratory device 300. Figure 4 As shown by arrow 314 , wearer 302 of breathing apparatus 300 may advantageously be aware of (eg, potential) dangers to their health and safety.

[0070] Also like Figure 4 As shown, breathing apparatus 300 may include a temperature sensor 306. Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, temperature sensor 306 is coupled to respiratory apparatus 300 by being included in respiratory apparatus 300. However, it should be understood that in other embodiments, temperature sensor 306 may be coupled to respiratory apparatus 300 in other ways. For example, according to some embodiments, temperature sensor 306 may be included in user interface 304. Temperature sensor 306 may be configured to measure a temperature (e.g., of respiratory apparatus 300 and / or an environment surrounding respiratory apparatus 300). For example, temperature sensor 306 may be configured to measure an ambient temperature (e.g., of the air surrounding respiratory apparatus 300). Figure 4 As shown, entity 100 may obtain (e.g., receive) ambient temperature information from temperature sensor 306. As described herein, entity 100 may determine the ambient temperature of breathing apparatus 300 based on the ambient temperature information obtained from temperature sensor 306. In some embodiments, entity 100 may generate a thermal signature profile based on the ambient temperature, as described herein.

[0071] like Figure 4 As shown, the entity 100 may initiate transmission of information (eg, information indicating a second thermal alarm as described herein) to a network node (eg, a base station). Figure 4 As shown, initiating information transmission may include transmitting information via the communication interface 310. Thus, in some embodiments, the communication interface 310 may receive alert information from the entity 100. Figure 4 As shown by arrow 312 , the communication interface 310 may transmit the alarm information to the network node. In this way, the network node may generate an alarm based on the alarm information received from the respiratory device 300 .

[0072] Therefore, if Figure 4 As shown in the exemplary system of FIG, an emergency alert (e.g., a warning) can be transmitted to the wearer of the breathing apparatus 300 via the user interface 304 of the breathing apparatus 300. Information (e.g., data) can be transmitted to a network node (e.g., a base station) without intervention by the wearer 302, thereby enabling an operator of the network node (e.g., an ECO) to continuously monitor the wearer 302 without requiring additional effort from the wearer 302. This allows the wearer 302 of the breathing apparatus 300 to focus on the task at hand and helps keep the voice communication channel (e.g., communication between the breathing apparatus 300 and the base station) unobstructed.

[0073] Figure 5 is a flow chart showing the processing steps in the method according to an embodiment. Figure 1 As described, the method may be performed by entity 100 (eg, processing circuitry 102 of entity 100). The method is for processing a thermal alarm associated with a wearer of a respiratory device of a network. Figure 5 The steps of the method illustrate exemplary ways in which the Figure 2 The steps of the method are described to achieve the above-discussed and additional functions.

[0074] refer to Figure 5 At step 400, the breathing device is activated. The breathing device may be activated by, for example, turning on the breathing device (e.g., by pressing a power button on the breathing device). Activation of the breathing device may initiate execution of the method as described herein. For example, in response to the entity 100 determining that the breathing device is activated, the entity 100 may begin executing the method as described in reference Figure 2 、 Figure 5 and / or Figure 6 Thus, in some embodiments, the methods described herein can be performed upon activation of the breathing apparatus. In this way, the methods described herein are inherently safer because the method of addressing a thermal alarm can be performed immediately upon activation of the breathing apparatus, thereby providing greater peace of mind to the wearer of the breathing apparatus.

[0075] exist Figure 5In step 402, the ambient temperature of the respiratory apparatus can be determined (e.g., measured). As described herein, determining the ambient temperature of the respiratory apparatus can include obtaining ambient temperature information from a temperature sensor coupled to the respiratory apparatus. The temperature sensor referred to herein can be, for example, a digital sensor. The determination of the ambient temperature can be performed periodically (e.g., once per second). Entity 100, as referred to herein, can be configured to control the temperature sensor.

[0076] exist Figure 5 At step 404, the method may include determining whether the ambient temperature of the breathing apparatus is equal to or greater than a first threshold temperature value. Figure 5 In the embodiment shown, if the ambient temperature is equal to or greater than the first threshold temperature value, the method may proceed to the reference Figure 5 The subsequent steps of the method described in steps 406 to 418. Figure 5 In the illustrated embodiment, if the ambient temperature is not equal to or greater than the first threshold temperature value, the method may proceed (eg, return) to the process described above. Figure 5 Step 402. Thus, the execution of the method (e.g., as described in reference Figure 5 The method of claim 10 (described in steps 404 to 418 of the present invention) may depend on whether the ambient temperature of the breathing apparatus is equal to or greater than a first threshold temperature value. Thus, if the ambient temperature of the breathing apparatus reaches a temperature sufficient to generate a thermal alarm, energy may be efficiently used by only performing a portion of the method.

[0077] As stated in this article, Figure 5 The method shown in can include generating a thermal signature profile indicative of the thermal exposure of a wearer of a respiratory device. Figure 5 As shown in step 406 of FIG. 3 , generating the thermal signature profile may include determining (e.g., calculating) a thermal coefficient based on the ambient temperature. The thermal coefficient may be determined based on a change (e.g., an amount of change) in the ambient temperature of the respiratory device. For example, the thermal coefficient may be determined based on a change in the ambient temperature of the respiratory device over a period of time. Figure 5 As shown in step 408 of , generating the thermal signature profile may include determining a positive step gradient based on the thermal coefficient. The positive step gradient may correspond to (e.g., represent) a transient thermal load experienced by a wearer of the respiratory device. A larger positive step gradient may indicate a higher criticality of the ambient conditions of the respiratory device. Although Figure 5 Although not explicitly shown, steps 406 and 408 may be repeated to determine one or more positive step gradients (e.g., periodically). Figure 5As shown in step 410 of FIG. 1 , the one or more positive step gradients generated may be integrated over a period of time. The integration may produce an integrated value. The period of time may be the operating time of the breathing device (e.g., the time since the breathing device was activated), and / or the period of time since it was determined that the ambient temperature was equal to or greater than a first threshold temperature value (e.g., the time since the ambient temperature was determined to be equal to or greater than a first threshold temperature value). Figure 5 (As described in step 404 of ). Thus, generating the thermal signature profile may include determining a temporal discrete thermal exposure of the wearer of the respiratory device based on the thermal coefficient. The integral value may correspond to the temporal discrete thermal exposure. The thermal exposure of the wearer of the respiratory device indicated by the thermal signature profile may correspond to the integral value.

[0078] As in Figure 5 As shown in steps 412 and 414, the integral value may be compared to a first criterion ("primary threshold") and / or a second criterion ("secondary threshold") as described herein. For example, the integral value may be compared to one or more (e.g., predefined) thresholds (e.g., the first exposure threshold and / or the second exposure threshold as described herein) to determine whether a thermal alarm (e.g., the first thermal alarm and / or the second thermal alarm described herein) needs to be generated (e.g., triggered).

[0079] like Figure 5 As shown in step 412 of , the method may include determining whether the integral value (eg, the heat exposure of the wearer of the breathing apparatus) satisfies a first criterion. Figure 5 As shown, if the integral value does not meet the first criterion, the method proceeds to Figure 5 That is, if the integral value does not meet the first criterion, no thermal alarm is generated. Figure 5 As shown in step 412, if the integral value does meet the first criterion (e.g., the integral value is equal to or greater than the first exposure threshold), the method proceeds to Figure 5 Step 414.

[0080] like Figure 5 As shown in step 414 of FIG, the method may include determining whether the integral value meets a second criterion (e.g., whether the integral value is greater than or equal to a second exposure threshold). Figure 5 As shown, if the integral value does not meet the second criterion, but meets the first criterion, the method proceeds to Figure 5 Step 416. Figure 5 As shown in step 416 of , a first thermal alarm is generated at the breathing apparatus. Figure 5 As shown in step 414, if the integral value meets the second criterion, the method proceeds to Figure 5 Step 418. Figure 5As shown in step 418 , a second alarm is generated by initiating transmission of information indicative of a second thermal alarm to a network node in the network.

[0081] like Figure 5 As shown, after generating a thermal alarm (eg, a first thermal alarm and / or a second thermal alarm), the method may proceed (eg, return) to Figure 5 Step 402 in the above example. Therefore, Figure 5 Some or all of the method steps shown in the may be performed iteratively. In this way, the heat exposure of the wearer of the breathing apparatus may be continuously and / or periodically monitored to further protect the wearer's safety.

[0082] Figure 6 is a flow chart showing the processing steps in the method according to an embodiment. Figure 1 As described, the method may be performed by entity 100 (eg, processing circuitry 102 of entity 100). The method is for processing a thermal alarm associated with a wearer of a respiratory device of a network. Figure 6 The steps of the method illustrate exemplary ways in which the Figure 2 and / or Figure 5 The steps of the method are described so as to achieve the above-discussed and additional functions. Figure 6 The steps of the method shown in can be performed after generating the first thermal alarm and / or the second thermal alarm as described herein. For example, Figure 6 Some or all of the steps may be found in the reference Figure 2 and / or Figure 5 The described method was followed.

[0083] refer to Figure 6 , steps 500 and 502 can refer to Figure 5 Steps 400 and 402 are described. Figure 6 Not shown, but in some embodiments, reference Figure 2 and / or Figure 5 Some or all of the described method steps may be Figure 6 Executed between step 500 and step 502.

[0084] exist Figure 6 At step 504, the method may include determining whether the ambient temperature of the breathing apparatus is less than a first threshold temperature value as defined herein. Figure 6 As shown in the embodiment shown in , if the ambient temperature is less than the first threshold temperature value, the method can proceed as shown in reference Figure 6 The subsequent steps of the method described in steps 506 to 518 are also as follows. Figure 6As shown in the embodiment shown in , if the ambient temperature is not less than the first threshold temperature value, then the method can proceed (eg, return) to Figure 6 Step 502. Thus, the execution of the method (e.g., as described in reference Figure 6 504 to 518) may depend on whether the ambient temperature of the breathing apparatus is less than a first threshold temperature value. As described above, Figure 6 The method shown in may be performed after a thermal alarm (eg, a first thermal alarm and / or a second thermal alarm) is generated. For example, Figure 6 The method shown may be used when a wearer of a breathing apparatus leaves a breathing apparatus having generated a thermal alarm and a temperature profile (e.g., by reference to Figure 5 The described method is then performed in a high temperature environment).

[0085] As stated in this article, Figure 6 The method shown in may include generating a thermal signature profile indicative of thermal exposure of a wearer of a respiratory apparatus. Figure 6 Step 506 can refer to Figure 5 Step 406 is described.

[0086] like Figure 6 As shown in step 508 of , generating the thermal signature profile may include determining a negative step gradient based on the thermal coefficient. The negative step gradient may correspond to (e.g., represent) a transient thermal load experienced by the wearer of the respiratory device. For example, a negative step gradient may correspond to a decrease in the thermal load experienced by the wearer of the respiratory device. A larger negative step gradient may indicate a lower criticality of the ambient conditions of the respiratory device. The step gradient may be adjusted by a weighting factor to delay modification of the thermal signature profile of the wearer of the respiratory device, thereby allowing the wearer sufficient time to recover (e.g., from a significant amount of heat exposure). Although Figure 6 Although not explicitly shown, steps 506 and 508 may be repeated to determine one or more negative step gradients (e.g., periodically). Figure 6 As shown in step 510 of the embodiment, the one or more negative step gradients generated may be integrated over a period of time. The integration may produce an integrated value. The period of time may be the operating time of the breathing device (e.g., the time since the breathing device was activated), and / or the period of time since it was determined that the ambient temperature was less than a first threshold temperature value (e.g., the reference temperature). Figure 6 (e.g., as described in step 504 of ). Thus, generating the thermal signature profile may include determining a temporal discrete thermal exposure of the wearer of the respiratory device based on the thermal coefficient. The integral value may correspond to the temporal discrete thermal exposure. The thermal exposure of the wearer of the respiratory device indicated by the thermal signature profile may correspond to the integral value.

[0087] As in Figure 6As shown in steps 512 and 514, the integrated value can be compared with the first criterion ("primary threshold") and / or the second criterion ("secondary threshold") mentioned herein. For example, the integrated value can be compared with one or more (e.g., predefined) thresholds (e.g., the first exposure threshold mentioned herein and / or the second exposure threshold mentioned herein) to determine whether to terminate (e.g., clear) the generation of the thermal alarm (e.g., the first thermal alarm described herein and / or the second thermal alarm described herein).

[0088] like Figure 6 As shown in step 512 of , the method may include determining whether the integral value (eg, the heat exposure of the wearer of the breathing apparatus) satisfies a first criterion. Figure 5 As shown, if the integral value does not meet the first criterion (e.g., the integral value is less than the first exposure threshold), the method proceeds to Figure 6 That is, if the integral value does not meet the first criterion, any generation of the first thermal alarm will be terminated. Figure 6 As shown in step 512, if the integral value does meet the first criterion (e.g., the integral value is equal to or greater than the first exposure threshold), the method proceeds to Figure 6 Step 514.

[0089] like Figure 6 As shown in step 514 of FIG, the method may include determining whether the integral value meets a second criterion (e.g., whether the integral value is greater than or equal to a second exposure threshold). Figure 6 As shown, if the integral value does not meet the second criterion (e.g., the integral value is less than the second exposure threshold), the method proceeds to Figure 6 That is, if the integral value does not meet the second criterion, any generation of the second thermal alarm will be terminated, such as Figure 6 The termination of the second thermal alarm may include, for example, initiating transmission of a termination message to the network node. The termination message may include information indicating that any generation of the second thermal alarm is to be terminated (e.g., cleared). In some embodiments, terminating the thermal alarm (e.g., the first thermal alarm and / or the second thermal alarm) may include terminating an output at the respiratory device indicating the thermal alarm.

[0090] Although Figure 6 Not shown in , but in Figure 6 At step 514, if the integral value does meet the second criterion, the method may proceed (eg, return) to Figure 5 Step 502. Therefore, Figure 5 Some or all of the method steps shown in the may be performed iteratively. In this way, the heat exposure of the wearer of the breathing apparatus may be continuously and / or periodically monitored to further protect the wearer's safety.

[0091] Figures 7A-7C A graph showing the thermal profile of a wearer of a BA over time. More specifically, Figures 7A-7C The graph in shows how the integrated value for temperature (which may correspond to the time-decoupled heat exposure described in this article) changes over time.

[0092] like Figures 7A-7C As shown in the example graph in , the first criterion is met if the thermal exposure is greater than or equal to a first exposure threshold value, value 4000, as defined herein, and the second criterion is met if the thermal exposure is greater than or equal to a second exposure threshold value, value 10000, as defined herein.

[0093] exist Figure 7A In the example graph shown, the wearer is exposed to a (constant) ambient temperature, as defined herein, of 80° C. Thus, after a total exposure time of 500 seconds, the wearer's thermal signature profile meets the first criterion, and after a total of approximately 1300 seconds, the wearer's thermal signature profile meets the second criterion.

[0094] exist Figure 7B In the example graph shown, the wearer is exposed to an ambient temperature of 80°C for 15 minutes and then to an ambient temperature of 120°C for 5 minutes. Thus, after a total exposure time of 500 seconds, the wearer's thermal signature profile meets the first criterion, and after a total of approximately 1100 seconds, the wearer's thermal signature profile meets the second criterion. Figure 7B As shown, an increase in ambient temperature causes the wearer's thermal signature profile to rise at an increasing rate.

[0095] exist Figure 7C In the example graph shown, the wearer is exposed to an ambient temperature of 120°C for 15 minutes and then to an ambient temperature of 30°C for 10 minutes. Thus, after a total exposure time of approximately 200 seconds, the wearer's thermal signature profile meets the first criterion, and after a total exposure time of approximately 600 seconds, the wearer's thermal signature profile meets the second criterion. Figure 7C As shown in Figure 2, when exposed to an ambient temperature of 30°C, the wearer's thermal signature profile eventually decreases to a negligible amount. Figure 7C In the embodiment shown, the wearer's heat exposure at time 1500s is effectively zero because the wearer has been able to cool down.

[0096] Figure 7D A graph showing the relationship between temperature and safe exposure time is shown. Figure 7D The graph shown in corresponds to the values ​​shown in Table 1 above. Figure 7D As shown, as the temperature increases, the amount of time a wearer can safely be exposed to the temperature decreases exponentially. Figure 7D The data shown in can be used to determine the exposure thresholds mentioned herein.

[0097] Figure 7D The curve shown in is an approximation using a second-order polynomial equation. This second-order polynomial equation is shown as Equation 1 below, where "t" equals time (in seconds) and "x" equals temperature (in degrees Celsius):

[0098]

[0099] A computer program embodied in a non-transitory machine-readable medium is also provided. The non-transitory machine-readable medium comprises instructions. These instructions are executable so that when executed by a suitable computer or processor, the computer or processor performs the method described herein. The non-transitory machine-readable medium may, for example, be any entity or device capable of carrying a computer program product. For example, the non-transitory machine-readable medium may comprise a data storage device, such as a ROM (such as a CD-ROM or semiconductor ROM) or a magnetic recording medium (such as a hard disk). In addition, the non-transitory machine-readable medium may be a transmissible carrier, such as an electrical signal or an optical signal, that can be conveyed via an electrical or optical cable or by radio or other means. When the computer program product is embodied in such a signal, the non-transitory machine-readable medium may consist of such a cable or other device or apparatus. Alternatively, the non-transitory machine-readable medium may be an integrated circuit in which the computer program product is embedded, the integrated circuit being suitable for performing the method described herein, or for performing the method described herein.

[0100] The techniques described herein facilitate better handling of thermal alerts associated with wearers of respiratory devices. The techniques described herein can be used to monitor the thermal exposure of the wearer of a respiratory device, and / or the thermal exposure of the respiratory device itself, and automatically generate specific alerts to reduce the risk of the wearer experiencing excessive heat exposure. Thus, thermal alerts can be appropriately generated without requiring manual interaction from the wearer of the respiratory device. A thermal signature profile indicative of the wearer's thermal exposure is used to ensure that the generation of any thermal alert is accurately executed. In some embodiments, the generation involves notifying a network node in the network, which may correspond to an operator in an incident to which the wearer of the respiratory device is dispatched. In this manner, the method notifies relevant network entities when the wearer of the respiratory device experiences unsafe heat exposure. Automatically generating thermal alerts in this manner reduces the delay between the conditions required to generate an alert and the initiation of remedial action.

[0101] Those skilled in the art, in practicing the principles and techniques described herein, will be able to understand and implement various changes to the disclosed embodiments by studying the drawings, the present disclosure and the appended claims. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. A single processor or other unit may perform the functions of several items listed in the claims. The mere fact that certain measures are listed in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage. The computer program may be stored or distributed on a suitable medium, such as an optical storage medium or solid-state medium provided together with or as part of other hardware, but may also be distributed in other forms, such as via the Internet or other wired or wireless telecommunications systems. Any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope.

Claims

1. A computer-implemented method for processing a thermal alarm associated with a wearer (302) of a networked respiratory device (200, 300), the method comprising: Generating (110) one or more first and second thermal alarms based on a thermal signature profile indicative of thermal exposure of the wearer (302) of the respiratory apparatus (200, 300), wherein the generating comprises: generating the first thermal alarm at the respiratory apparatus (200, 300) if the thermal signature profile meets a first criterion; and If the thermal signature profile meets a second criterion, transmitting information indicative of the second thermal alarm to a network node (202) of the network is initiated.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein Generating the first thermal alarm includes generating a notification indicating the first thermal alarm via an output of the respiratory apparatus (200, 300); and / or Generating the second thermal alarm includes generating a notification indicative of the second thermal alarm via an output of the respiratory apparatus (200, 300).

3. The method according to claim 2, wherein: The notification indicating the first thermal alarm and / or the notification indicating the second thermal alarm includes one or more of the following: Visual notifications; Auditory notifications; and Haptic notifications.

4. The method according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: The method includes terminating generation of the first thermal alarm in response to input obtained through a user interface (304) of the respiratory apparatus (300); and / or The generation of the second thermal alarm cannot be terminated via the user interface (304) of the respiratory apparatus (300).

5. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The information indicative of the second thermal alert includes an identifier of the wearer (302).

6. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first thermal alert indicating that the wearer's heat exposure is approaching a heat exposure threshold; and / or The second thermal alert indicates that the wearer's heat exposure has exceeded the heat exposure threshold.

7. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising: The thermal signature profile is generated.

8. The method according to claim 7, wherein: Generating the thermal signature profile includes: Determine the ambient temperature of the breathing apparatus.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein Determining the ambient temperature of the breathing apparatus includes: Ambient temperature information is obtained from a temperature sensor (306) coupled to the breathing apparatus (300).

10. The method according to claim 8 or 9, wherein: Generating the thermal signature profile includes: determining whether an ambient temperature of the breathing apparatus is equal to or greater than a first threshold temperature value; determining a thermal coefficient based on the ambient temperature; and Based on the thermal coefficient, a temporal discrete thermal exposure of the wearer of the respiratory apparatus is determined.

11. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The thermal signature profile satisfies the first criterion if the thermal signature profile indicates that the thermal exposure is greater than or equal to a first exposure threshold and less than a second exposure threshold; and If the thermal signature profile indicates that thermal exposure is greater than or equal to the second exposure threshold, then the thermal signature profile meets the second criterion.

12. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The method is performed when the breathing apparatus (200, 300) is activated.

13. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The network is a radio network.

14. An entity (100), comprising: A processing circuit (102) configured to operate according to the method of any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. A computer program product embodied on a non-transitory machine-readable medium, comprising instructions executable by a processing circuit to cause the processing circuit to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

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