Respirator device

Abstract

One variation of a respirator device includes a shroud center portion, a filter assembly, and a gasket. The shroud central portion defines: a transparent central region configured to align with a user's nose and mouth; and a filter window laterally offset from the transparent central region. A filter assembly includes a filter media and a seal that: surrounds a perimeter of the filter media; the filter assembly is positioned within the filter window and defines a central groove configured to mate with an edge of the filter window to instantaneously retain the filter assembly within the filter window. The pad is disposed on the back side of the central portion of the lens and is configured to: seal against the face of the user; and positioning the lens center portion and the filter assembly offset from the user's face to form an airflow channel to direct airflow through the user's smooth cheek region.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 428,314, filed on November 28, 2022, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates generally to the field of respirators and, more particularly, to a new and useful device for a transparent shield respirator having a conformal foam facial gasket incorporating interchangeable acoustically transparent conformal frame pleated filters. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a respirator apparatus;

[0006] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a respirator apparatus;

[0007] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a respirator apparatus;

[0008] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a respirator apparatus;

[0009] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a respirator apparatus;

[0010] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of a respirator apparatus;

[0011] Figure 7A and Figure 7B is a schematic diagram of a respirator apparatus;

[0012] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the breathing apparatus assembly; and

[0013] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of a respirator apparatus.

[0014] Description of Embodiments

[0015] The following description of the embodiments of the present invention is not intended to limit the present invention to these embodiments, but is intended to enable those skilled in the art to understand and use the present invention. The variations, configurations, embodiments, exemplary embodiments, and examples described herein are optional and do not exclude the variations, configurations, embodiments, exemplary embodiments, and examples described therein. The invention described herein may include any and all permutations of these variations, configurations, embodiments, exemplary embodiments, and examples.

[0016] 1. Respirator device

[0017] like Figure 1 As shown, respirator assembly 100 includes: a hood center portion 110 ; a first filter assembly 120 ; a second filter assembly 128 ; and a liner 140 .

[0018] The central portion 110 of the shield is formed of a flexible material and is transparent as a whole, thereby defining a central area 112 configured to be located at a central position above the user's face; a left filter window 114 laterally offset from the transparent central area 112; and a right filter window 116 laterally offset from the transparent central area 112 opposite the left filter window 114.

[0019] The first filter assembly 120 includes a first filter medium 121 and a first seal 122. The first seal 122 surrounds the periphery of the first filter medium 121 and defines a first central recess 123 configured to cooperate with the first rim 115 of the left filter window 114 to temporarily retain the first filter assembly 120 within the left filter window 114.

[0020] Second filter assembly 128 includes second filter media 129 and second seal 130. First seal 122 surrounds the periphery of the second filter media and defines a second central recess 131 configured to mate with the second rim of right filter window 116 to temporarily retain second filter assembly 128 within right filter window 116.

[0021] The cushion 140 is disposed on the back of the shield central portion 110 and is configured to conform to the user's facial contours and to center the transparent, unobstructed window of the central region 112 over the user's nose and mouth. The cushion 140 is further configured to position the shield central portion 110 and the first filter assembly 120 offset from the user's face to form a left airflow channel 150. The left airflow channel 150 defines a first height, a first depth that is less than the first height, and extends across the user's left cheek region, exposing a smooth skin region on the upper cheek. The cushion 140 is further configured to position the shield central portion 110 and the second filter assembly 128 offset from the user's face to form a right airflow channel 150. The right airflow channel 150 defines a second height, a second depth that is less than the second height, and extends across the user's right cheek region, exposing a smooth skin region on the upper cheek.

[0022] 2. Application

[0023] In general, respirator apparatus 100 can function as a respirator that: induces a cooling sensation on a smooth skin area of ​​a user's upper cheek region; exhibits resilience by maintaining contact with the user's face by responsively adapting to movements of the user's face (e.g., head turns, speaking); and enables other users to view facial cues (e.g., expressions) from the user. More specifically, the respirator assembly 100 may include a mask center portion 110 including a transparent area 112 configured to be centered over the nose and / or mouth of a user; a filter assembly 120 transiently coupled to the mask center portion 110 and arranged offset from the transparent area 112 of the mask center portion 110; and a cushion 140 arranged on a rear side of the mask center portion 110 and configured to conformally fit with the user's face to position the filter assembly 120 adjacent to the smooth cheek area of ​​the user and form an airflow channel 150 within an interior volume (identified as a plenum) of the mask center portion 110 between the filter assembly 120 and the transparent center area 112 of the mask center portion 110.

[0024] Thus, during inhalation (e.g., nasal inhalation, oral inhalation) and exhalation (e.g., nasal exhalation, oral exhalation) of the user, airflow within the airflow channel 150 is directed across the smooth skin on the upper cheek area to induce a cooling sensation on the user's face while maintaining an unobstructed view of the user's nose and mouth within the transparent central area 112 of the shield central portion 110.

[0025] The respirator assembly 100 includes a cushion 140 formed of an elastomeric, conformable, closed-cell foam material including a non-porous skin surface; disposed about the perimeter of the shield central portion 110; including an upper cushion portion 143 defining an arched geometry contoured along an upper edge of a transparent central region 112 of the shield central portion 110; and including a lower cushion portion 144 defining a concave geometry contoured along a lower edge of the transparent central region 112 of the shield central portion 110. Furthermore, the cushion 140 is configured to: conform to the user's face to form an air cavity airflow channel 150 extending within the interior of the shield central portion 110 between the filter assembly 120 and the transparent central region 112; contour along the user's nasal bones to maintain the upper cushion portion 143 in contact with the user's face; and contour along the user's mandible to maintain the lower cushion portion 144 in contact with the user's face.

[0026] The respirator assembly 100 may also include a neck harness 160 coupled to the shield core 110 and configured to wrap around the back of the user's neck, and a skull strap 165 coupled to the shield core 110 and configured to form a loop-like configuration around the user's skull. Thus, the neck harness 160 and skull strap 165 cooperate to: surround the user's face stabilizing cushion 140 to form an airflow channel 150 within the shield core 110; position the user's nose and mouth within the transparent central region 112 of the shield core 110; and position the filter window 114 (and therefore the filter assembly 120) near the user's smooth cheek area.

[0027] Thus, the cushion 140 cooperates with the user's face so that during the user's facial movements (e.g., head rotation, mandibular movement during speaking), the cushion 140 does not slide on the user's face, but rather the cushion 140 deflects, stretches, and compresses to conform to the facial topology, exhibiting uniform resilience, thereby: maintaining contact between the upper cushion portion 143 and the user's nasal bones; maintaining contact between the lower cushion portion 144 and the underside of the user's mandible; and directing airflow through the filter assembly within the interior volume of the shield center portion 110.

[0028] In addition, the shield center portion 110 also includes a filter window 114 that is offset from the transparent center region 112 and configured to receive the filter assembly 120 and configured to receive the filter assembly 120 to position the airflow channel 150 near the smooth cheek area of ​​the user. Specifically, the filter assembly 120 may include a filter medium 121 (e.g., polytetrafluoroethylene film, spunbond polyester) and a seal 122 that surrounds the filter medium 121 and defines a central recess 123 that extends around the perimeter of the seal 122 and is configured to cooperate with a rim 115 of the filter window 114 to position the filter assembly 120 within the filter window 114. The seal 122 can be formed of an elastomeric material configured to deform during installation of the filter assembly 120 into the filter window 114 and include a groove configured to expand around and seal against the inner and outer edges of the rim 115 of the filter window 114, thereby positioning and sealing the filter assembly 120 within the filter window 114. Thus, the filter assembly 120 is operable by a user in a deformed configuration to position the filter assembly 120 within the filter window 114 of the shroud center portion 110, and is operable in a nominal configuration to position the rim 115 of the filter window 114 within the central groove 123 of the seal 122, thereby forming an interference fit between the filter window 114 and the filter assembly 120, the interference fit directing airflow from outside the shroud center portion 110 through the filter assembly 120 within the interior volume of the shroud center portion 110. Therefore, during the user's inhalation (e.g., from the nose or mouth), the airflow within the airflow channel 150 is directed from the filter assembly 120 to pass through the user's smooth cheek area to induce a cooling sensation. Additionally, during the user's exhalation (e.g., from the nose or mouth), the airflow within the airflow channel 150 is directed from the transparent central region 112 to pass through the user's smooth cheek area to induce a cooling sensation.

[0029] Thus, the respirator assembly 100: induces a cooling effect on the smooth cheek areas of the user during inhalation and exhalation of the user; enables an external observer to observe facial cues from the nose and mouth areas of the user located within the transparent central region 112 of the shield central portion 110; deflects and twists around the user's face to hold the cushion 140 against the user's face to direct airflow from the filter assembly 120 toward the interior volume of the shield central portion 110; and prevents contaminants (e.g., airborne particles, dirt, dust) from the external environment surrounding the shield central portion 110 from entering the interior of the shield central portion 110 (identified as the air cavity).

[0030] 3. Lens part

[0031] Generally, respirator assembly 100 includes a shield center portion 110 formed of a transparent, flexible material (e.g., a polycarbonate film) configured to deflect and twist in response to a user's facial movements and configured to contour to the user's face to expose the user's nose and mouth areas. More specifically, respirator assembly 100 includes a transparent center region 112 configured to be positioned over the user's face (e.g., nose, mouth); a left filter window 114 laterally offset from transparent center region 112; and a right filter window 116 laterally offset from transparent center region 112 and opposite left filter window 114. Thus, the respirator assembly 100: when positioned on the user's face, exposes the nasal region and the mouth region to an observer; and supports transient coupling of the filter assembly 120 at the left filter window 114 and / or the right filter window 116 to prevent contaminants (e.g., airborne particles, dirt, dust) from the external environment surrounding the lens central portion 110 from entering the interior of the shield central portion 110.

[0032] In one embodiment, the shield center portion 110 defines a target width configured to curve from the user's left cheekbone to the right cheekbone to position the shield center portion 110 across the user's breathing zone (e.g., mouth, nose) and smooth cheek area; and defines a target height configured to extend from the user's nose bridge to below the chin. The shield center portion 110 includes: an upper edge defining an upper arch configured to contour along the user's nasal bone; a lower edge defining a lower arch configured to contour along the user's mandible; a left edge intermediate the upper and lower edges and configured to contour along the user's left cheekbone; and a right edge opposite the left edge, intermediate the upper and lower edges and configured to contour along the user's right cheekbone. More specifically, the upper edge may further define: a left fan-shaped area configured to be contoured along the left maxillary bone below the user's left eye to form an unobstructed field of view from the left eye when the central portion 110 of the lens is positioned on the user's face; and a right fan-shaped area opposite the left fan-shaped area, configured to be contoured along the right maxillary bone below the user's right eye to form an unobstructed field of view from the right eye when the central portion 110 of the shield is positioned on the user's face.

[0033] In this implementation, the shroud center portion 110 includes a left filter window 114 that is disposed proximate to a left side of the lens center portion 110, defines a target shape (e.g., a semi-elliptical shape, a circular shape, a diamond shape), defines a window width, and defines a window height that is less than the window width. Similarly, the shroud center portion 110 includes a right filter window 116 that is disposed proximate to a right side of the shroud center portion 110, defines a target shape (e.g., a semi-elliptical shape, a circular shape, a diamond shape), defines a window width, and defines a window height that is less than the window width. Further, the filter window 114 can include indicia (e.g., a contrasting color band) disposed about a perimeter of the filter window 114 that indicates a sealing edge that is configured to guide a user to position the filter assembly 120 within the filter window 114 of the shroud center portion 110.

[0034] While this implementation includes a left filter window 114 and a right filter window 116 disposed on the shroud center portion 110, other variations can include a single filter window and / or multiple (e.g., greater than two) filter windows disposed on the shroud center portion 110 that are configured to receive the filter assembly 120.

[0035] Accordingly, the shroud center portion 110 enables an observer to view facial cues (e.g., facial expressions) from a user through the transparent center region 112, includes the filter assembly 120 that is transiently coupled within the right filter window 116 and the left filter window 114 of the shroud center portion 110, and flexes and twists in response to movements of the user’s face.

[0036] 4. Filter components

[0037] Generally, filter assembly 120 includes: a filter medium 121; and a seal 122. Filter medium 121 is configured to prevent contaminants (e.g., airborne particles, dirt, dust) from the external environment outside of lens central portion 110 from entering the interior volume of respirator assembly 100 between shield central portion 110 and the user's face. Seal 122 is disposed around filter medium 121 (e.g., overmolded around filter medium 121) and defines an outer circumferential groove configured to seat around and compress against rim 115 of filter window 114, thereby forming a double seal against the inner and outer edges of rim 115 of filter window 114 while positioning filter medium 121 within filter window 114. More specifically, the filter assembly 120 is configured to deform in response to a force applied about a seal 122 surrounding the filter media 121 to fully position the filter assembly 120 within the filter window 114. Accordingly, upon release of the force applied about the seal 122, the filter assembly 120 returns to a nominal shape (e.g., a semi-elliptical shape) to cause engagement between a central recess 123 disposed about the seal 122 and a rim 115 surrounding the filter window 114, thereby forming an interference fit between the filter window 114 and the filter assembly 120. Thus, the filter assembly 120 can: prevent contaminants (e.g., airborne particles, dirt, dust) from entering the interior of the shroud central portion 110; and form an interference fit between the filter assembly 120 and the filter window 114 to direct airflow from outside the shroud central portion 110 through the filter assembly 120 and into the interior volume of the shroud central portion 110.

[0038] 4.1 Interference fit

[0039] In one embodiment, respirator assembly 100 includes a filter window 114 (e.g., left filter window 114 and / or left filter window 114 ) defining a square rim 115 around the perimeter of filter window 114 , and a central recess 123 defining a forked geometry extending around the perimeter of a seal 122 surrounding filter media 121 and configured to mate with square rim 115 of filter window 114 .

[0040] In one example, the fork-like geometry includes: a first tine 124 surrounding the perimeter of the seal 122; a second tine 125 surrounding the perimeter of the seal 122 opposite the first tine 124; and a slot 126 between the first tine 124 and the second tine 125, the slot 126 being configured to receive the square rim 115 of the filter window 114. Thus, the fork-like geometry of the central recess 123 extends around the perimeter of the seal 122 to mate with the inner and outer edges of the rim (e.g., a four-sided rim, a triangular rim, a circular rim) surrounding the perimeter of the filter window 114, thereby forming an interference fit between the filter assembly 120 and the shroud center portion 110. In this example, the center groove 123 can be momentarily connected to the filter window 114 to: position the square edge 115 of the filter window 114 within the narrow groove 126 of the fork-shaped geometric structure of the center groove 123; seal the first fork tine 124 of the fork-shaped geometric structure against the outer edge of the edge 115 of the filter window 114; and seal the second fork tine 125 of the fork-shaped geometric structure against the inner edge of the edge 115 of the filter window 114 opposite to the outer edge, thereby forming an interference fit between the filter assembly 120 and the filter window 114.

[0041] In one embodiment, the filter assembly 120 is operable to: position the filter assembly 120 within the filter window 114 in a deformed configuration during application of a force around the periphery of the filter assembly 120; and, seal the filter assembly 120 against the edge of the filter window 114 in a nominal configuration during absence of an applied force around the periphery of the filter assembly 120.

[0042] In one example, the filter media 121: comprises a multi-layer construction (e.g., a single or two-layer polytetrafluoroethylene membrane with the polytetrafluoroethylene membrane layer bonded to a spunbond polyester scrim on each side) having a target filtration efficiency (e.g., between 95% filtration efficiency for R95, N95 and 99.97% filtration efficiency for P100, N100); defines a parallel pleat geometry enclosed within a seal 122 surrounding the filter media 121; and spans a target surface area within the seal 122 (e.g., between 80 square inches and 110 square inches, between 51,000 square millimeters and 70,967.6 square millimeters). Additionally, the seal 122 is formed of an elastomeric material (e.g., urethane, thermoplastic) molded around the filter medium 121 and defines a target hardness range (e.g., between 55 Shore A and 75 Shore A) that is configured to deform the filter assembly 120 in response to a force applied around the seal 122 surrounding the filter medium 121.

[0043] In another example, the filter window 114 defines: a window width (e.g., between 3 inches and 4 inches); and a window height that is less than the window width (e.g., between 0.5 inches and 1.0 inches). In this example, the filter assembly 120: defines a semi-elliptical geometry that matches the window width and window height; and is configured to deform laterally and vertically in response to a force applied around the perimeter of the filter assembly 120. Thus, a user can then: apply a force around the seal 122 surrounding the filter media 121 to operate the filter assembly 120 in the deformed configuration to position the filter assembly 120 within the window width and window height of the filter window 114; and remove the force applied around the seal 122 to operate the filter assembly 120 in the nominal configuration so that the central recess 123 mates with the rim of the filter window 114, thereby forming an interference fit between the filter assembly 120 and the filter window 114.

[0044] In one embodiment, filter assembly 120 is interchangeable between a plurality of filter windows located on shield center portion 110. For example, shield center portion 110 may include a left filter window 114 positioned near the left side of shield center portion 110 and a right filter window 116 positioned near the right side of shield center portion 110. Thus, filter assembly 120 can be selectively positioned within left filter window 114 or right filter window 116 by a user. More specifically, filter assembly 120 is operable in a first configuration, including a central recess 123 of seal 122 engaging a first edge 115 of left filter window 114 to temporarily retain filter assembly 120 within left filter window 114; and in a second configuration, including a central recess 123 of seal 122 engaging a second edge of right filter window 116 (opposite left filter window 114) to temporarily retain filter assembly 120 within right filter window 116.

[0045] In another embodiment, respirator assembly 100 includes a first filter assembly 120 comprising a first filter medium 121 and a first seal 122 surrounding first filter medium 121 and defining a first central recess 123 configured to temporarily couple with a left filter window 114 of shroud core 110. Similarly, respirator assembly 100 may include a second filter assembly 128 comprising a second filter medium 129 and a second seal 130 surrounding second filter medium 129 and defining a second central recess 131 configured to temporarily couple with a right filter window 116 of shroud core 110. In this embodiment, as described above, first filter assembly 120 and second filter assembly 128 are interchangeable between left filter window 114 and right filter window 116. Additionally, while this embodiment includes a first filter assembly 120 and a second filter assembly 128 configured to transiently couple to the shroud center portion 110, other variations may include a single filter assembly and / or multiple (e.g., greater than two) filter assemblies configured to transiently couple to filter windows disposed on the shroud center portion 110.

[0046] Thus, the filter assembly 120 is momentarily coupled to the filter window 114 of the shield center portion 110 so as to: prevent contaminants (e.g., airborne particles, dirt, dust) from entering the interior volume of the shield center portion 110 during inhalation by the user; and form an interference fit between the filter assembly 120 and the filter window 114 to direct airflow from outside the shield center portion 110 through the filter assembly 120 toward the interior volume of the shield center portion 110.

[0047] 4.2 Filter cover

[0048] In one embodiment, the filter assembly 120 includes a seal 122 that: surrounds the periphery of the filter media 121; defines a central groove 123 extending around the periphery of the seal 122; and defines an intermittent outer groove 127 adjacent to the central groove 123, the intermittent outer groove 127 surrounding the periphery of the seal 122 and configured to transiently engage a filter cover 133 extending across the filter media 121 of the filter assembly 120. In this embodiment, the filter cover 133 includes: pre-filter media 134 (e.g., siliconized, Sil-Scrim, heat-molded polyester scrim, carbon scrim); and capture detents 135 disposed around the inner periphery of the pre-filter media 134 and configured to engage the intermittent outer groove 127 to transiently retain the filter cover 133 on the exterior face of the filter media 121. Thus, while the filter cover 133 is retained on the exterior face, the filter cover 133 cooperates with the filter assembly 120 to form an air cavity between the surface area of ​​the filter media 121 of the filter assembly 120 and the pre-filter media 134 of the filter cover 133 .

[0049] In addition, the filter cover 133 may include a valve plate 170 that is configured to cooperate with the filter rim geometry to be: centrally located on the pre-filter media 134; disposed within the air cavity formed by the filter assembly 120 and the filter cover 133; and configured to prevent inward airflow during a user's inhalation and outward airflow during a user's exhalation. Thus, the filter cover 133 cooperates with the filter assembly 120 to isolate the filter media 121 of the filter assembly 120 from the external environment, thereby grading airflow (e.g., inward airflow, outward airflow) and preventing large particles and liquid contaminants (e.g., >PM10 airborne particles, dirt, dust, bodily fluids, blood, water droplets) from directly contacting the filter media 121 of the filter assembly 120.

[0050] Additionally, valve plate 170 is centrally located on pre-filter media 134, which is suspended adjacent to the inlet opening of filter assembly 120 and separated from the inlet face of filter assembly 120 by an air cavity to prevent interference with inward airflow during inhalation or outward airflow during exhalation. Valve plate 170 is configured to cover the inlet face of filter assembly 120. The configuration of pre-filter media 134, combined with the flexibility of its outer planar surface, suspends valve plate 170 adjacent to the face of filter assembly 120. As needed, valve plate 170 can be deflected by force to engage the face of filter assembly 120 and obstruct inlet and outlet airflow, thereby allowing assessment of the seal integrity of cushion 140 against the user's face. The force required to engage valve plate 170 against the face of filter assembly 120 is less than 1 inch-pound, so as to avoid false-positive cushion seal integrity assessments by applying pressure to the cushion 140 seal during the pressure application sequence of the assessment process. This assessment requires a short, sudden burst of inhalation sufficient to create a vacuum in the air chamber of the respirator, with the valve plate 170 simultaneously deflecting and pressing against the face of the filter assembly 120. The resulting increase in vacuum caused by the sudden inhalation pulls the respirator assembly 100 toward the face, thereby increasing the pressure of the cushion 140 against the face seal area, which is readily felt by the user. A weak or absent vacuum during the assessment indicates a leaking cushion seal at the cushion-face seal area and requires refitting the respirator assembly 100 until a perceptible vacuum can be achieved.

[0051] In one example, respirator assembly 100 includes a first filter assembly 120 including a first seal 122 defining a first central groove 123 extending around a perimeter of first seal 122 and a first interrupted outer groove 127 adjacent to first central groove 123 and surrounding the perimeter of first seal 122. In this example, first filter assembly 120 can be temporarily coupled to left filter window 114 to position first outer groove 127 outside of lens central portion 110. Furthermore, respirator assembly 100 includes a first filter cover 133 including a first pre-filter medium 134 and a first catching detent 135 disposed around a perimeter of first pre-filter medium 134 and configured to couple with first interrupted outer groove 127 to temporarily retain first filter cover 133 on a first exterior face of first filter medium 121 of first filter assembly 120. Similarly, respirator assembly 100 includes a second filter assembly 128, which includes a second seal 130 defining a second central groove 131 extending around the perimeter of first seal 122 and a second, interrupted outer groove 132 adjacent to second central groove 131 and surrounding the perimeter of second seal 130. Second filter assembly 128 can be temporarily coupled to right filter window 116 to position second outer groove 132 outside of lens central portion 110. Furthermore, respirator assembly 100 includes a second filter cover 136, which includes a second pre-filter medium 137 and a second capture detent 138 disposed around the perimeter of second pre-filter medium 137 and configured to couple with second interrupted outer groove 132 to temporarily retain second filter cover 136 on a second exterior surface of second filter medium 129 of second filter assembly 128.

[0052] Thus, respirator assembly 100 may include a filter cover 133 configured to transiently couple filter assembly 120 to: prevent large particulate and liquid contaminants (e.g., >PM10 airborne particles, dirt, dust, bodily fluids, blood, water droplets) from directly contacting filter media 121 of filter assembly 120; and direct airflow (e.g., inward airflow, outward airflow) during inhalation and exhalation by a user.

[0053] 4.3 Adjustable filter depth

[0054] In one embodiment, the filter assembly 120 is operable in a first depth configuration including the central groove 123 of the seal 122 coupling the filter window 114 to position the filter assembly 120 at a first depth (e.g., between 0.1 and 0.2 inches) within the interior volume of the lens center portion 110 and is operable in a second depth configuration including the outer groove 127 of the seal 122 coupling the filter window 114 to position the filter assembly 120 at a second depth greater than the first depth (e.g., between 0.21 and 0.3 inches) within the interior volume of the lens center portion 110. More specifically, the filter assembly 120 is operable in the first depth configuration including the central groove 123 of the seal 122 mating with the rim of the filter window 114 to instantaneously retain the filter assembly 120 within the filter window 114 at the first depth and is operable in the second depth configuration including the outer groove 127 of the seal 122 mating with the rim of the filter window 114 to instantaneously retain the filter assembly 120 within the filter window 114 at the second depth greater than the first depth.

[0055] Accordingly, the filter assembly 120 is selectively disposed within the filter window 114 to adjust the depth that the filter assembly 120 extends within the interior volume of the lens center portion 110 in order to prevent the filter assembly 120 from directly contacting the face of the user when a larger filter is installed. Although this embodiment includes the seal 122 defining the central groove 123 and the outer groove 127 about the perimeter of the seal 122, other variations can include a single groove and / or multiple (e.g., greater than two) grooves disposed about the perimeter of the seal 122, the seal 122 encircling the filter media 121 of the filter assembly 120.

[0056] 5. Padding

[0057] In general, the respirator device 100 includes a cushion 140 that: is disposed about the rear side of the lens center portion 110; and is configured to conform to the face of the user. More particularly, the cushion 140: is disposed (e.g., adhesively coupled, overmolded) about the periphery of the lens center portion 110; is configured to contour about the face of the user to position the nose and mouth of the user within the transparent central region 112 of the shield center portion 110; and forms an airflow channel 150 within the interior volume of the shield center portion 110 to direct airflow across the smooth cheek region of the user during inhalation and exhalation by the user. Thus, the cushion 140: remains in contact against the face of the user during movement of the face of the user to prevent air from entering and / or exiting the interior volume (e.g., air cavity) of the lens center portion 110 along the cushion 140 compressed against the face of the user; and causes a passive cooling effect on the face of the user during inhalation and exhalation by the user as air passing through the airflow channel 150 flows across the smooth cheek region of the user.

[0058] 5.1 Facial Compression

[0059] In one implementation, the cushion 140: is formed from an elastomeric closed cell conformable foam material that includes a non-porous surface (e.g., an integrated skin); is disposed about the rear side of the shield center portion 110; and is configured to conform to the face of the user to position the filter window 114 near the smooth cheek region of the user. In particular, the cushion 140: is formed from an elastomeric urethane foam and / or an elastomeric silicone foam material; includes a continuous smooth skin surface that is integrally formed during a specialized foam molding process that implements a proprietary tool coating that, upon contact, breaks the surface tension between the tool contact surface and the foam, collapses air cells near the foam surface, forms a uniform smooth skin surface with increased durability, improved release characteristics, and a desirable sealing area surface finish to the facial contour; and defines a continuous boundary about the rear side of the lens center portion 110 to contour the nose, cheeks, and chin of the user to maintain contact with the face of the user during movement of the face of the user (e.g., movement of the mandible).

[0060] In this embodiment, the cushion 140 includes a left cushion portion 141 that defines a first depth (e.g., 0.25 inches, 6 mm), contours along the left edge of the lens central portion 110, and is configured to conform to the left side of the user's jawbone to position the left filter window 114 of the lens central portion 110 adjacent to the user's left smooth cheek area. Similarly, the cushion 140 includes a right cushion portion 142 that matches the first depth (e.g., 0.20 inches, 5 mm), contours along the right edge of the lens central portion 110, and is configured to conform to the right side of the user's jawbone to position the right filter window 116 of the lens central portion 110 adjacent to the user's right smooth cheek area. The entire cushion 140 is a single continuous injection molded part designed to eliminate all mold parting lines that create potential leak paths between the cushion's sealing area and facial topology.

[0061] Thus, right cushion portion 142 cooperates with left cushion portion 141 to: maintain contact between cushion 140 and the user's face (e.g., the sealing area); and direct airflow through filter assembly 120 into the interior volume (e.g., the air cavity) of lens central portion 110. Thus, during facial movements of the user (e.g., movement of the mandible, rotation of the head), cushion 140 (through the cushion's elastomeric, foam conformable properties, and design of its geometry that is specifically configured to move with the cushion-seal area interface on the facial topology) remains in contact with the user's face.

[0062] In addition, the cushion 140 includes an upper cushion portion 143, which defines a second depth (e.g., 0.25 inches, 6 mm) greater than the first depth; defines an arched geometry that is contoured along the upper edge of the transparent central region 112; and is configured to conform to the skin supported by the user's nasal and cheekbones to position the user's nose within the transparent central region 112 of the shield central portion 110. In addition, the cushion 140 includes a lower cushion portion 144, which defines a third depth (e.g., 0.80 inches, 20 mm) greater than the second depth; defines a concave geometry that is contoured along the lower edge of the transparent central region 112; and is configured to conform to the underside of the user's mandible to position the user's chin and mouth within the transparent central region 112 of the lens central portion 110.

[0063] Accordingly, the lower cushion portion 144 cooperates with the upper cushion portion 143, the left cushion portion 141, and the right cushion portion 142 to maintain contact with the skin supported by the user’s facial bones (e.g., nasal bones, cheekbones, mandible) while maintaining exposure of the smooth cheek areas to the interior volume of the shield central portion 110. Accordingly, during movement of the user’s face (e.g., head turning, mandible movement during speech), the cushion 140 does not slide on the user’s face, but rather the cushion 140 can elastically deflect, thereby: maintaining contact between the upper cushion portion 143 and the user’s nasal bones; and maintaining contact between the lower cushion portion 144 and the underside of the user’s mandible.

[0064] 5.2 airflow channels + face cooling

[0065] In one implementation, the cushion 140 is configured to conform to the user’s face to: position the filter assembly 120 offset from the user’s smooth cheek areas; and form an airflow channel 150 extending from the filter assembly 120 to the transparent central area 112 (positioning the user’s nose and mouth), and configured to direct airflow across the user’s smooth cheek areas. Specifically, the airflow channel 150: defines a target depth range (e.g., between 0.1 inch and 0.3 inch, between 2.5 mm and 8 mm) between the inner surface of the shield central portion 110 and the user’s face; and defines a target height range (e.g., between 0.5 inch and 1.5 inch, between 2.5 mm and 8 mm) across the user’s smooth cheek areas.

[0066] In one example, the cushion 140 is configured to conform to the user’s face to: position the first filter assembly 120 offset from the user’s left smooth cheek area; and form a left airflow channel 150 extending from the first filter assembly 120 at the left filter window 114 to the transparent central area 112 of the shield central portion 110, and configured to direct airflow flowing within the left airflow channel 150 across the user’s left smooth cheek area. Similarly, the cushion 140 is configured to compress against the user’s face to: position the second filter assembly 128 offset from the user’s right smooth cheek area; and form a right airflow channel 150 extending from the second filter assembly 128 at the right filter window 116 to the transparent central area 112 of the shield central portion 110, and configured to direct airflow flowing within the right airflow channel 150 across the user’s right smooth cheek area. Accordingly, air travels within the left airflow channel 150 across the user’s left smooth cheek area, and within the right airflow channel 150 across the user’s right smooth cheek area, thereby producing a cooling effect on the user during inhalation and exhalation.

[0067] For example, during inhalation by the user, the first filter assembly 120 cooperates with the second filter assembly 128 to: direct the airflow within the left airflow channel 150 (flowing from the first filter assembly 120 to the user's mouth) laterally and vertically across the left smooth cheek area; and direct the airflow within the right airflow channel 150 (flowing from the second filter assembly 128 to the user's mouth) laterally and vertically across the right smooth cheek area. Additionally, during exhalation by the user, the first filter assembly 120 cooperates with the second filter assembly 128 to: direct the airflow within the left airflow channel 150 (flowing from the user's mouth to the first filter assembly 120) laterally and vertically across the right smooth cheek area; and direct the airflow within the right airflow channel 150 (flowing from the user's mouth to the second filter assembly 128) laterally and vertically across the right smooth cheek area.

[0068] In another example, during inhalation by the user, the first filter assembly 120 cooperates with the second filter assembly 128 to: direct the airflow within the left airflow channel 150 (flowing from the first filter assembly 120 to the user's nose) laterally and vertically across the left smooth cheek area; and direct the airflow within the right airflow channel 150 (flowing from the second filter assembly 128 to the user's nose) laterally and vertically across the right smooth cheek area. Additionally, during exhalation by the user, the first filter assembly 120 cooperates with the second filter assembly 128 to: direct the airflow within the left airflow channel 150 (flowing from the user's nose to the first filter assembly 120) laterally and vertically across the right smooth cheek area; and direct the airflow within the right airflow channel 150 (flowing from the user's nose to the second filter assembly 128) laterally and vertically across the right smooth cheek area.

[0069] Thus, the cushion 140 is configured to conform to the user's face to form an airflow channel 150 within the interior volume of the shield center portion 110 to induce a cooling effect on the user's smooth cheek area during the user's inhalation (e.g., nasal inhalation, oral inhalation) and exhalation (e.g., nasal exhalation, oral exhalation).

[0070] 5.3 Moisture Control

[0071] In one embodiment, the shield 110 is formed of a transparent, flexible material (e.g., a polycarbonate film) and includes a hydrophilic coating disposed on the inner and outer sides of the central portion 110 of the lens. A user's inhalation and exhalation causes moisture (e.g., fog, droplets) to form on the inner surface of the central portion 110 of the lens, which in turn hinders the user's facial cues (e.g., expressions). Therefore, the hydrophilic coating on the central portion 110 of the lens prevents moisture (e.g., fog, droplets) from forming on the inner surface of the inner portion and directs moisture, via gravity, to the lower cushion portion 144 of the cushion 140 disposed around the central portion 110 of the shield.

[0072] In another embodiment, the cushion 140 can include a moisture trap 145 (e.g., a cavity recess) molded to the lower portion and cooperating with the hydrophilic coating and the moisture removal cushion skin surface to trap moisture formed within the inside of the lens center portion 110. Thus, the cushion 140 enables the user to routinely (i.e., on-demand) address the moisture collected within the moisture trap 145 molded into the lower cushion portion 144 of the cushion 140 by the user manually breaking the cushion seal beneath and around the trap area during any exhalation phase of the breathing cycle so as not to contaminate the plenum space with particulates. Other variations of this embodiment can include a one-way release valve inlet at the base of the moisture trap 145 disposed at the lower cushion portion 144 and configured to selectively release the moisture accumulated within the moisture trap 145 at the lower cushion portion 144 by the user performing a user seal check, thereby forcing the moisture trap valve to open, thereby providing a path for the moisture collected in the trap to escape from the respirator so as not to contaminate the plenum space with particulates.

[0073] 6. Headband

[0074] Generally, the respirator device 100 can include a neck strap 160 coupled to the shroud center portion 110 and configured to wrap around the user’s neck and a skull strap 165 coupled to the shroud center portion 110 and configured to wrap around the user’s upper skull. In particular, the skull strap 165 cooperates with the neck strap 160 to: position the shroud center portion 110 in proximity to the user’s face; and maintain the conformability of the cushion 140 to the user’s face. Thus, during the user’s movement of the face, the neck strap 160 cooperates with the skull strap 165 to maintain the conformability of the cushion 140 to the user’s face rather than sliding on the user’s face.

[0075] In one embodiment, the shroud center portion 110 includes: a left lower perforation 118 disposed in proximity to the left filter window 114 of the shroud center portion 110; and a right lower perforation 118 disposed in proximity to the right filter window 116 of the shroud center portion 110 opposite the left lower perforation 118. Additionally, the neck strap 160 includes: a first strap clip 162 (e.g., a snugger clip) disposed at a first end of the neck strap 160 and instantaneously coupled to the left lower perforation 118 of the lens center portion 110; and a second strap clip 162 (e.g., a snugger clip) disposed at a second end of the neck strap 160 opposite the first end and instantaneously coupled to the right lower perforation 118 of the lens center portion 110.

[0076] In one example, the neck strap 160: is formed of an elastomeric material (e.g., laminated foam-backed microfiber, woven polyester flat strap); and spans a target length (e.g., 26 inches, 66.04 centimeters) from a first end to a second end of the neck strap 160; and spans a target height (e.g., 0.5 inches, 12 millimeters) that is configured to contour along the back of the user's neck.

[0077] In addition, the shield center portion 110 includes: an upper left through-hole 118 disposed near the left filter window 114 of the shield center portion 110; and an upper right through-hole 118 disposed near the right filter window 116 of the shield center portion 110 and opposite the upper left through-hole 118. In addition, the skull strap 165 includes: a rear skull portion 166 formed of an elastomeric material as described above, which is configured to wrap around the rear skull of the user; a third strap clip 162 (e.g., a snug clip) disposed at a first end of the rear skull portion 166 and momentarily coupled to the upper left through-hole 118 of the shield center portion 110; and a fourth strap clip 162 (e.g., a snug clip) disposed at a second end of the rear skull portion 166, opposite the first end, and momentarily coupled to the upper right through-hole 118 of the shield center portion 110. The skull strap 165 also includes a front skull portion 167 (e.g., a thermoplastic strip) that is coupled to the rear elastomeric skull portion 166 and includes extended dogleg sections that are oriented rearward on either side to wrap around the front skull of the user and cooperate with the rear skull portion to form a halo around the upper skull of the user. This skull strap provides the added benefit of providing adjustment of the yoke for single-handed placement of the respirator on the user's face.

[0078] Thus, the skull strap 165 cooperates with the neck strap 160 to tighten the skull strap 165 around the user's upper skull, thereby providing pressure to stabilize the cushion 140 on the user's face. Thus, during the user's facial movements, the neck strap 160 cooperates with the neck strap 160 to conformably maintain the cushion 140 on the user's face.

[0079] 7. Respirator Setup + Facial Configuration

[0080] In one embodiment, the respirator assembly 100 includes a mask core portion 110 comprising: a cushion 140 disposed about a rear side of the mask core portion 110; a transparent central region 112 configured to be positioned over a user's face; a left filter window 114 laterally offset from the transparent central region 112; and a right filter window 116 opposite the left filter window 114 and laterally offset from the transparent central region 112. During initial setup of the respirator assembly 100, the user may: couple a first filter assembly 120 within the left filter window 114 of the mask core portion 110; couple a second filter assembly 128 within the right filter window 116 of the mask core portion 110; couple a neck strap 160 to the mask core portion 110; and couple a skull strap 165 to the mask core portion 110.

[0081] Neck strap 160 is configured to support respirator assembly 100 around the back of the user's neck and maintain respirator assembly 100 in a suspended configuration around the user's neck before placing cushion 140 around the user's face. The user can then: fit the cushion around the user's face to direct airflow through filter assembly 120 into the interior volume of mask center portion 110; and secure skull strap 165 in a loop-like configuration around the user's upper skull. Thus, skull strap 165 cooperates with neck strap 160 to conformably hold cushion 140 against the user's face, thereby forming a sealed air cavity between the mask and the user's face.

[0082] In the sealed configuration, cushion 140 is held conformably against the user's face to form a left airflow channel 150 across the user's left smooth cheek area and a right airflow channel 150 across the user's right smooth cheek area. Thus, in the sealed configuration, first filter assembly 120 is positioned offset from the user's left smooth cheek area, and second filter assembly 128 is positioned offset from the user's right smooth cheek area. Thus, during inhalation (e.g., nasal inhalation, oral inhalation) and exhalation (e.g., nasal exhalation, oral exhalation), respirator assembly 100 induces a cooling effect on the user's left and right smooth cheek areas.

[0083] In addition, the cushion 140 cooperates with the user's face so that during movement of the user's face, the cushion 140 does not slide on the user's face but elastically deforms while maintaining contact with the user's face while guiding the airflow within the left and right airflow channels 150 .

[0084] Accordingly, the respirator device 100: causes a cooling effect on the smooth cheek area of the user during inhalation and exhalation by the user; enables an outside observer to observe a facial cue from the nose and mouth area of the user located within the transparent central area 112 of the shield central portion 110; and prevents contaminants (e.g., airborne particles, dirt, dust) surrounding the outside environment of the lens central portion 110 from entering the inside (e.g., air cavity) of the lens central portion 110.

[0085] As those skilled in the art will recognize from the foregoing detailed description, and from the drawings and claims, modifications and changes can be made to the embodiments of the application without departing from the scope of this application as defined in the claims.

Claims

1. A respirator device comprising: The center portion of the shield: - formed of a flexible material; and -limited: a transparent central region configured to be positioned over a user's face; - a left filter window laterally offset from the transparent central region; and a right filter window laterally offset from the transparent central region and opposite the left filter window; A first filter assembly, the first filter assembly comprising: - a first filter medium; and - a first sealing member, said first sealing member: - around the periphery of the first filter medium; and -- defining a first central recess configured to cooperate with a first rim of the left filter window to momentarily retain the first filter assembly within the left filter window; A second filter assembly, the second filter assembly comprising: - a second filter medium; and - A second sealing member, said second sealing member: - around the periphery of the second filter medium; and -- defining a second central recess configured to cooperate with a second rim of the right filter window to momentarily retain the second filter assembly within the right filter window; and The liner: - arranged on the back side of the central portion of the shield; and - is configured to: - Fitting the user's face so that the transparent central area is aligned with the user's nose and mouth; - positioning the shield center portion and the first filter assembly offset from the user's face to form a left airflow channel, the left airflow channel: ---Limit the first height; --- define a first depth that is less than the first height; and ---extends across the user's left smooth cheek area; and - Positioning the shield center portion and the second filter assembly offset from the user's face to form a right airflow channel, the right airflow channel: ---Limit the second height; --- define a second depth that is less than the second height; and ---Extends across the user's right smooth cheek area.

2. The respirator assembly of claim 1 , wherein: The left air flow channel: defining a first depth range between 0.1 inches and 0.75 inches and configured to position the first filter assembly offset from a left smooth cheek region of a user; and A first height range is defined between 0.75 inches and 2.0 inches and is configured such that the first filter assembly spans a left smooth cheek area of ​​a user.

3. The respirator assembly of claim 1 , wherein: The first filter assembly cooperates with the second filter assembly to: During user inhalation: - directing airflow in the left airflow channel from the first filter assembly to the user's nose laterally and vertically across a left smooth area of ​​the user's upper cheek; and - directing airflow within the right airflow channel from the second filter assembly to the user's nose laterally and vertically across the right smooth area of ​​the user's upper cheek; and During user exhalation: - directing airflow in the left airflow channel from the user's nose to the first filter assembly laterally and vertically across the right smooth area of ​​the user's upper cheek; and - directing the airflow in the right airflow channel from the user's nose to the second filter assembly laterally and vertically across the right smooth area of ​​the user's upper cheek.

4. The respirator assembly of claim 1: in, the left filter window defining a square rim around a perimeter of the left filter window; and Wherein, the first central groove: - defining a fork-like geometry embedded around the periphery of the first seal and comprising: --first tine; - a second tine, which is opposite to the first tine; and a slot between the first tine and the second tine; and - is configured to transiently link the left filter window to: - positioning the first square edge of the left filter window within the slot of the fork-shaped geometry; - sealing the first tine of the fork-like geometry against the outer edge of the square rim of the left filter window; and - Sealing the second tine of the fork-like geometry against an inner edge of the square rim of the left filter window opposite the outer edge, the second tine cooperating with the first tine to form an interference fit between the outer and inner edges of the square rim of the first filter assembly.

5. The respirator assembly of claim 1: in, The first seal further includes a first outer groove, the first outer groove being offset from the first central groove, the first outer groove surrounding a perimeter of the first filter medium; Also included is a first filter cover comprising: - a first pre-filter medium; and - a first capture detent disposed about the first pre-filter medium and configured to engage the first intermittent outer groove to momentarily retain the first filter cover on a first exterior face of the first filter medium; wherein the second seal further comprises a second outer groove, the second outer groove being offset from the second central groove, the second outer groove surrounding a perimeter of the second filter medium; and Also included is a second filter cover comprising: - a second pre-filter medium; and - a second capture detent disposed about the second pre-filter medium and configured to engage the second intermittent outer groove to momentarily retain the second pre-filter on a second exterior face of the second filter medium.

6. The respirator assembly of claim 1: in, The first seal further includes a first outer groove, the first outer groove being offset from the first central groove, the first outer groove surrounding a perimeter of the first filter media; and Wherein, the first filter component: - operable in a first configuration, comprising said first central groove of said first seal cooperating with said first rim of said left filter window to: - momentarily retaining the first filter assembly within the left filter window; and -- forming the airflow channel of the first depth; and - operable in a second configuration, comprising said first outer groove of said first seal cooperating with said first rim of said left filter window to: - momentarily retaining the first filter assembly within the left filter window; and --forming the left air flow channel to a third depth that is smaller than the first depth.

7. The respirator assembly of claim 1: in, The first filter medium: - is formed of a three-layer structure comprising: - a first layer comprising a polytetrafluoroethylene film; a second layer made of a polyester scrim laminated to a first side of said first layer; and a third layer made of a polyester scrim laminated to a second side of the first layer opposite the first side; - defining a parallel pleat geometry enclosed within said first seal; and - spans a target surface area range between 80 square inches and 110 square inches; and Wherein, the first sealing member: - formed of an elastomeric material overmolded around said first filter media; and - A target hardness range limited to between 55 Shore A and 75 Shore A.

8. The respirator assembly of claim 1: in, The first filter window defines: - first window width; and - a first window height that is smaller than the first window width; Wherein, the first filter component: - defining a semi-elliptical geometry, said semi-elliptical geometry: -- having said first window width; and --having the first window height; - configured to deform laterally and vertically in response to a force applied around a periphery of said first filter assembly; - operable in a deformed configuration to position the first filter assembly within the first window width and the first window height of the first filter window during application of a force about the perimeter of the first filter assembly; and - operable in a nominal configuration to seal the first filter assembly against the first rim of the first filter window during absence of force applied around the periphery of the first filter assembly.

9. The respirator assembly of claim 1 , wherein: The first filter assembly: operable in a first configuration including said first central recess of said first seal engaging said first rim of said left filter window to momentarily retain said first filter assembly within said left filter window; and Operable in a second configuration, including the first central recess of the first seal engaging the second rim of the right filter window to momentarily retain the first filter assembly within the right filter window.

10. The respirator assembly of claim 1: in, The central portion of the lens also includes: - an upper left perforation, which is adjacent to the left filter window; - a lower left perforation, arranged below the upper left perforation, near the left filter window; - an upper right perforation, which is adjacent to said right filter window; and - a lower right perforation, which is arranged below the upper right perforation, near the right filter window; and Also includes: - a neck strap, said neck strap: --include: --- a first clip disposed at a first end of the neck strap and momentarily coupled to the lower left perforation of the lens central portion; and a second clip disposed at a second end of the neck strap opposite the first end and momentarily coupled to the lower right perforation of the lens central portion; - configured to wrap around the back of a user's neck; and - A skull strap, the skull strap: --include: ---A posterior skull portion configured to wrap around the posterior skull of a user; ---an anterior skull portion coupled to the posterior skull portion and configured to wrap around the user's anterior skull; --- a third clip disposed at the first end of the posterior skull portion and momentarily coupled to the upper left perforation of the central lens portion; and a fourth clip disposed at a second end of the posterior skull portion opposite the first end and momentarily coupled to the upper right perforation of the central lens portion; and --Configured to cooperate with the neck strap to position the cushion to fit the user's face.

11. The respirator assembly of claim 1 , wherein: The liner: formed of an elastomeric conformable foam material including a non-porous surface; configured to conformably fit around a user's face, incorporating a narrow sealing area to expose a smooth skin area of ​​the user, and directing airflow from outside the central portion of the lens, through the first filter assembly and the second filter assembly, across the smooth skin area, and into an interior volume of an air cavity in the central portion of the lens; and include: - a left padding portion, said left padding portion: -- defining a first depth of contour along a left edge of the central portion of the lens; and - configured to mate with the left side of the user's mandible to position the left filter window of the central portion of the lens adjacent to the user's left smooth cheek area; and - a right padding portion, said right padding portion: - defining said first depth of the contour along a right edge of said central portion of said lens; - configured to mate with the right side of the user's mandible to position the right filter window of the central portion of the lens adjacent the user's right smooth cheek area; and --Cooperate with the left cushion portion to maintain contact between the cushion and the user's face during movement of the user's mandible.

12. The respirator assembly of claim 11, wherein the cushion further comprises: An upper lining portion, the upper lining portion: - defining a second depth greater than said first depth; - defining an arched geometric structure contoured along an upper edge of said transparent central area; and - configured to conform to the skin supported by the user's nasal bones and cheekbones to position the user's nose within the transparent central region of the central portion of the shield; and A lower cushion portion, the lower cushion portion: - defining a third depth greater than said second depth; - defining a concave geometric structure contoured along a lower edge of said transparent central area; - configured to conform to the underside of a user's mandible to position the user's chin and mouth within the transparent central region of the central portion of the shield; and - cooperate with the upper pad portion to resiliently deflect during mandibular movement by the user to: - Maintaining contact between the upper cushion portion and the user's skin over the nasal bone area; and - Maintaining contact between the lower pad portion and the skin on the underside of the user's mandibular area.

13. The respirator assembly of claim 1: in, The central part of the lens: - formed of a polycarbonate film material; and - comprising a hydrophilic coating disposed on the inner and outer sides of the central portion of the lens; and wherein the liner comprises a lower portion, wherein: - configured to conform to the user's mandible; and - comprising a moisture trap molded into the lower portion and cooperating with the hydrophilic coating and moisture-removing foam skin to capture moisture formed within the inner side of the central portion of the lens.

14. A respirator device comprising: A central portion of the lens, the central portion of the lens defining: - a transparent central area configured to be positioned over the user's face; and - a first filter window laterally offset from said transparent central area; A filter assembly, the filter assembly comprising: - filter media; and - a seal, said seal: - around the periphery of the filter medium; and a central recess defining a fork-like geometry comprising: ---First tine; --- a second tine, which is opposite to the first tine; and --- a narrow slot between the first fork tine and the second fork tine; -- is configured to cooperate with the first filter window to: ---positioning a first edge of the first filter window within the slot to momentarily retain the filter assembly within the first filter window; - sealing the first tine against the outer edge of the first rim of the first filter window; and - sealing the second tine against an inner edge of the first rim of the first filter window opposite the outer edge; and The liner: - arranged on the back side of the central portion of the lens; and - is configured to: - sealing against the user's face so that the transparent central area is aligned with the user's nose and mouth; and - Positioning the central lens portion and the filter assembly offset from the user's face to form an airflow channel, the airflow channel: ---Has a first height; --- having a first depth that is less than the first height; and ---Extends across the user's left smooth cheek area.

15. The respirator assembly of claim 14, wherein: The first filter assembly cooperates with the second filter assembly to: -During user inhalation: - directing airflow in the left airflow channel from the first filter assembly to the user's mouth laterally and vertically across the left smooth cheek region; and - directing airflow in the right airflow channel from the second filter assembly to the user's mouth laterally and vertically across the right smooth cheek region; and -During user exhalation: - directing airflow in the left airflow channel from the user's mouth to the first filter assembly laterally and vertically across the right smooth cheek area; and -- guiding the airflow in the right airflow channel from the user's mouth to the second filter assembly laterally and vertically across the right smooth cheek area.

16. The respirator assembly of claim 14: in, The seal further includes an intermittent outer groove, the intermittent outer groove being offset from the central groove, the intermittent outer groove surrounding the periphery of the filter media; and Also included is a filter cover comprising: - Pre-filter media; - a first capture detent disposed about the pre-filter media and configured to engage the intermittent outer groove of the seal to momentarily retain the filter cover on an exterior face of the filter media; and - A valve plate suspended from the pre-filter media and configured to displace against a rim of the filter assembly and seal the air cavity space in response to a deflection force on an exterior of the filter media.

17. The respirator assembly of claim 14: in, The seal further includes an outer groove offset from the central groove, the outer groove surrounding the periphery of the filter media; and Wherein, the filter assembly: - operable in a first configuration comprising said central recess of said seal cooperating with said first rim of said first filter window to: - momentarily retaining the filter assembly within the first filter window; and -- forming the airflow channel of the first depth; and operable in a second configuration comprising said outer groove of said seal cooperating with said first rim of said first filter window to: - momentarily retaining the filter assembly within the first filter window; and --forming the air flow channel to a second depth smaller than the first depth.

18. The respirator assembly of claim 14: in, The shield central portion further defines a second filter window opposite the first filter window and laterally offset from the transparent central region; and Wherein, the filter assembly: - capable of operating in a first configuration, comprising: the first edge of the first filter window nesting within the slot of the seal to momentarily retain the filter assembly within the first filter window; - the first tine seals against an outer edge of the first rim of the first filter window; and - the second tine seals against an inner edge of the first filter window opposite the outer edge; and - capable of operating in a second configuration comprising: - a second edge of the second filter window nesting within the slot of the seal to momentarily retain the filter assembly within the first filter window; - the first tine seals against an outer edge of the second rim of the second filter window; and - The second tine seals against an inner edge of the second rim of the second filter window opposite the outer edge.

19. A respirator assembly comprising: A central portion of the lens, the central portion of the lens defining: - a transparent central area configured to be positioned over the user's face; and - a filter window laterally offset from said transparent central region; A filter assembly, the filter assembly comprising: - filter media; and - a seal, said seal: - around the periphery of the filter medium; and -- defining a central recess configured to cooperate with the filter window to: --- positioning the edge of the filter window within the central recess to momentarily retain the filter assembly within the filter window; --- seal against the outer edge of the rim of the filter window; and --- sealing against an inner edge of the rim of the filter window opposite the outer edge; and The liner: - arranged on the back side of the central portion of the shield; and - is configured to: - sealing against the user's face so that the transparent central area is aligned with the user's nose and mouth; and -- Positioning the lens center portion and the filter assembly offset from the user's face to form an airflow channel extending across the user's left smooth cheek area.

20. The respirator assembly of claim 19: in, said filter window defining a square edge around a perimeter of said left filter window; and Wherein, the central groove: - defining a fork-like geometry extending around a periphery of the first seal and comprising: --first tine; - a second tine, which is opposite to the first tine; and a slot between the first tine and the second tine; and - is configured to transiently link the left filter window to: - positioning the square edge of the filter window within the slot of the fork-shaped geometry; - sealing the first tine of the fork-like geometry against the outer edge of the rim of the filter window; and - Sealing the second tine of the fork-like geometry against an inner edge of the rim of the filter window opposite the outer edge.

Images