Nasal gas purifying device

Abstract

To provide a nasal gas purification device for purifying and / or reducing undesirable substances from air and / or gas intended to enter the nasal cavity.SOLUTION: The nasal gas purification device may include a gas purification device, a housing component, a power component 1310, a fan component 1410, a filtration component, a cap, a germicidal irradiation component, an aroma component, a nose plug component 1710, a monitoring component, and a medicinal component.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 310,650, filed February 16, 2022. This application also claims priority from U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 17 / 982,355, filed November 7, 2022. This application also claims priority from U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 17 / 994,293, filed November 26, 2022. This application further claims priority from U.S. Design Patent D1,024,333, filed April 5, 2023. The aforementioned applications are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

[0002] The present disclosure relates to nasal gas purification devices, and more particularly to purifying and / or reducing undesirable substances from gas intended to enter the nasal passages. [Background technology]

[0003] For generations, society has been aware of environmental conditions that can pose a health hazard, especially since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, vigilance against airborne viruses and other harmful substances is widespread around the world. As people strive to maintain optimal health and avoid infection with COVID-19 and other harmful airborne viruses and pathogens, there is a growing demand for devices that help prevent the inhalation of viruses and other harmful pathogens in the environment.

[0004] Carbon air filters are well known for their effectiveness in removing harmful gaseous chemicals and certain odors from the air. In contrast, HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Arrestor) air filters are mechanical in nature. HEPA filters are well known for removing unwanted particulate matter from the air. Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that carbon air filters and HEPA filters can be used together.

[0005] Ultraviolet (UV) light is electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength shorter than visible light and longer than X-rays. UV light is well known to exhibit antiviral and antibacterial properties. Short-wavelength UV light (UV-C) is considered "germicidal UV." The nucleic acids that make up the DNA of viruses and bacteria can exhibit defects when exposed to UV-C light. These defects can prevent effective replication, thereby eliminating or substantially reducing the virus or bacteria's ability to replicate.

[0006] The sense of smell plays an important role in physiological effects such as mood, stress, and work performance. Humans have a large population of olfactory receptors genetically engineered to detect thousands of different scents. It has long been recognized that prolonged exposure to certain scents and aromas positively influences human psychophysiological activity. See, e.g., K. Sowndhararajan & S. Kim, Influence of Fragrances on Human Psychophysiological Activity With Special Reference to Human Electroencephalographic Response, 84(4) Sci. Pharm. 724 (2016). Therefore, a need exists to address the deficiencies present in the prior art.

[0007] What is needed is a device that removes pollutants, particulates, and other undesirable elements from air before it is inhaled by a user. What is needed is an air purification device that reduces contact of undesirable elements with tissues in the nasal cavity or other tissues associated with the respiratory system. What is needed is a device that removes impurities from air before it enters the nasal cavity by filtering and / or applying germicidal irradiation. What is needed is a portable device that is comfortably inserted into the nostrils and performs the air purification function. What is needed is an air / gas purification device that can detect conditions related to and at least partially purify incoming and outgoing air. Summary of the Invention

[0008] Aspects of the present disclosure preferably provide devices that remove contaminants, particulates, and other undesirable elements from air prior to inhalation by a user. Aspects of the present disclosure preferably provide air purification devices that reduce contact of undesirable elements with tissue within the nasal cavity or other tissues associated with the respiratory system. Aspects of the present disclosure preferably provide devices that remove impurities from air before it enters the nasal cavity by filtering and / or applying germicidal irradiation. Aspects of the present disclosure preferably provide portable devices that are comfortably inserted into the nostrils and perform air purification functions. Aspects of the present disclosure preferably provide air and gas purification devices that can detect conditions related to and at least partially purify incoming and outgoing air.

[0009] Thus, the present disclosure may feature a nasal gas purification device including a housing, a gas processing component, a nose plug component, and a cap. The housing may substantially enclose an interior space. The gas processing component may be disposed within the interior space to at least partially purify gas for delivery to the nasal cavity. The gas processing component may include a filtering component for removing impurities from the gas. The nose plug component may be operably attached to a nose end of the housing that may be removably inserted into the nares to form at least a partial seal with the nasal cavity. Gas that passes through the filtering component is directed into the nasal cavity through the nose plug component. The cap may be removably attached to the cap end of the housing and may receive gas delivered from a gas source via a supply line. The cap end may be distal to the nose end.

[0010] In another aspect, the supply line can have a supply line diameter that is selectively attached to the cap such that gas from the supply line is received through a gas receiving opening in the cap.

[0011] In another aspect, the supply line can be received by the cap having a filtering diameter, which may be larger than the supply line diameter, potentially increasing the filtering efficiency of the filtering component.

[0012] In another aspect, the cap can include a cannula for receiving a supply line through which gas can be flowed. The diameter of the supply line can be larger than the diameter of the cannula.

[0013] In another aspect, the impurities may comprise microorganisms.

[0014] In another embodiment, the gas source may be a continuous positive airway pressure device.

[0015] Alternatively, the gas source may be a pressurized tank.

[0016] In another aspect, the gas handling component may further comprise a fan component and a power component. The fan component may actively pass gas through the filtration component. The power component may be disposed substantially within the interior space for providing power to the gas handling component.

[0017] In another aspect, the housing can have a cap-receiving feature, which can be at least partially flexible to allow for attachment and removal of the cap.

[0018] In another aspect, the device may further comprise an auxiliary opening in the housing.

[0019] In another aspect, the device may further comprise a desiccant for at least partially removing moisture within the interior space of the housing, at least a portion of which is expelled through the auxiliary opening.

[0020] In another aspect, the gas handling component may further comprise an aroma component, which may comprise an aroma reservoir that reversibly retains fragrance materials that may have a fragrance, the fragrance being transferred, at least in part, from the fragrance materials into the gas.

[0021] In another aspect, the gas handling component can further comprise a medicinal component including a medicinal reservoir for reversibly retaining a drug, the drug being at least partially transferred from the medicinal component into the gas.

[0022] In another aspect, the filtration component is replaceable and can include a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter.

[0023] In another aspect, the device may further comprise a monitoring component that indicates the possible presence of microorganisms in the environmental space accessible through the nose plug component.

[0024] According to an alternative embodiment, the present disclosure may feature a nasal gas purification device including a housing, a gas processing component, a nose plug component, and a cannula in a cap. The housing may substantially enclose an interior space. The gas processing component may be disposed within the interior space to at least partially purify the gas and at least partially remove moisture from the gas for delivery to the nasal cavity. The gas processing component may further include a high-efficiency particulate adsorption (HEPA) filter for removing impurities from the gas. The nose plug component may be operably attached to the nasal end of the housing for removably insertion into the nares to form at least a partial seal with the nasal cavity. This seal may allow gas that has passed through the filtering component to be directed into the nasal cavity through the nose plug component. The cannula in the cap may be removably attached to the cap end of the housing for receiving gas supplied from a gas source via a supply line. The cap end may be distal from the nose end. The supply may have a supply line diameter selectively attached to the cannula such that gas from the supply line is received through a gas-receiving opening in the cannula. The supply line can be received by a cap having a filtration diameter larger than the supply line diameter, which can increase the filtration efficiency of a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter.

[0025] In another aspect, the gas handling component can further comprise a medicinal component that can comprise a medicinal reservoir for reversibly retaining a drug, the drug being at least partially transferred from the medicinal component into the gas.

[0026] In another aspect, the device may further comprise a monitoring component that indicates the possible presence of microorganisms in an environmental space accessible through the housing.

[0027] In another aspect, the housing can have a cap-receiving feature, which can be at least partially flexible to allow for attachment and removal of the cap.

[0028] In another aspect, the device may further comprise an auxiliary opening in the housing.

[0029] The terms and expressions used throughout this disclosure are to be broadly interpreted. Terms are intended to be understood according to the definitions provided herein. Technical dictionaries and common meanings understood in the applicable technical field are intended to supplement these definitions. If an appropriate definition cannot be determined from this specification or a technical dictionary, such terms should be understood according to their plain and ordinary meaning. However, the definitions provided herein take precedence over all other sources of information.

[0030] Various objects, features, aspects and advantages set forth in the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like numerals represent like elements and in which: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0031] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary air purification device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an exemplary air purification device shown at another angle with a housing attached, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a front view of an exemplary air purification device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a rear view of an exemplary air purification device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a bottom view of an exemplary air purification device, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a top view of an exemplary air purification device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary air purification device shown in FIG. 3 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary air purification device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an exemplary air purification device contained by an embodiment of a case, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a partially exploded perspective view of an exemplary air purification device contained by an embodiment of a case, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of an exemplary air purification device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of an exemplary air purification device showing the lower portion, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a front view of an alternative embodiment of an exemplary air purification device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a bottom view of an alternative embodiment of an exemplary air purification device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a top view of an alternative embodiment of an exemplary air purification device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the exemplary air purification device shown in FIG. 13 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is an exploded perspective view of an alternative embodiment of an exemplary air purification device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a partially exploded perspective view of an alternative embodiment of an exemplary air purification device showing a replaceable filter, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of an exemplary air purification device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0050] [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a front view of an alternative embodiment of an exemplary air purification device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0051] [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a top view of an alternative embodiment of an exemplary air purification device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0052] [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is an exploded perspective view of an alternative embodiment of an exemplary air purification device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0053] [Figure 23] 23 is an exploded perspective view of an alternative configuration to the embodiment shown in FIG. 22 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0054] [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of an exemplary use of an air purification device enabled by the present disclosure, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0055] [Figure 25] FIG. 25 is a side view of an alternative embodiment of an exemplary air purification device enabled by the present disclosure.

[0056] [Figure 26] FIG. 26 is a top view of an alternative embodiment of an exemplary air purification device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0057] [Figure 27] 27 is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary air purification device shown in FIG. 26 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0058] [Figure 28] FIG. 28 is a perspective view of an exemplary use of an air purification device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0059] The following disclosure is provided to describe various embodiments of a nasal air and / or gas purification device. Those skilled in the art will recognize additional embodiments and uses of the present invention that extend beyond the examples of this disclosure. Terms included by any claim shall be interpreted as defined within this disclosure. Singular forms shall be read to contemplate and disclose plural alternatives. Likewise, plural forms shall be read to contemplate and disclose the singular alternative. Conjunctions shall be read as inclusive unless otherwise stated.

[0060] Phrases such as "at least one of A, B, and C" should be read to permit any of A, B, or C alone or in combination with the remaining elements. Furthermore, such groups may include multiple instances of one or more elements within the group, which may be included with other elements of the group. All numbers, measurements, and values ​​are given as approximations unless expressly stated otherwise.

[0061] For purposes of clearly describing the components and features discussed throughout this disclosure, several frequently used terms are defined here, without limitation. The term "HEPA filter," as used throughout this disclosure, is defined as having, using, or including a high-efficiency particulate adsorption filter, typically designed to capture a significant portion of airborne particles, e.g., 99.97 percent of airborne particles 0.3 micrometers in diameter or larger, from the air passing through the filter. The term "ultraviolet (UV) light," as used throughout this disclosure, is defined as light having a wavelength shorter than visible light and longer than X-rays, including UV-C short-wave ultraviolet light, which may be used for ultraviolet germicidal irradiation. The term "nose," as used throughout this disclosure, is defined as relating to the nose and related features. The term "nostril," as used throughout this disclosure, is defined as the opening to the nasal cavity.

[0062] The term "cannula," as used throughout this disclosure, is defined as a small, variable-sized tube that may assist in the introduction of air and / or gases. The term "microorganism," as used throughout this disclosure, is defined as a microscopic organism, including, but not limited to, bacteria, viruses, or fungi. The term "gas," as used throughout this disclosure, is defined as a substance that has no independent shape or volume and possesses the property of amorphous expansion, including, but not limited to, molecules (oxygen, radon, nitrogen, etc.), chemical compounds (nitrogen dioxide, methanal, benzene, etc.), and mixtures of various molecules and chemical compounds (air, biological gases, natural gas, etc.).

[0063] Various aspects of the present disclosure will now be described in detail, without limitation. In the following disclosure, a nasal air and / or gas purification device will be described. Those skilled in the art will recognize alternative designations for a nasal air and / or gas purification device as a nasal filter device, a nasal air and / or gas purification device, a nasal filtration device, a portable powered air purification device, the present invention, a device, or other similar designations. Similarly, those skilled in the art will recognize alternative designations for a nasal air and / or gas purification device as an air filtration operation, an irradiation and / or filtration technique, a method for monitoring and improving air and / or gas quality, a method, an operation, the present invention, or other similar designations. The skilled reader should not consider the inclusion of any alternative designations to be limiting in any way.

[0064] The nasal air and / or gas purification device will now be described in more detail with reference to Figures 1-28. Those skilled in the art will understand that a disclosure enabling the use of a device for the passage of air may also disclose and enable the use of a device for the passage of gases. The use of air in any of the following discussions, examples, and other enabling contexts is intended to additionally enable use with other gases, instead of or in addition to air, without limitation. The nasal air purification device may include a housing, a power component, a fan component, a filtration component, a germicidal irradiation component, an aroma component, a nose plug component, a monitoring component, a cap, a medicinal component, and additional components described in more detail below. The nasal air purification device may operate one or more of these components interactively with other components to purify and / or reduce undesirable substances from air and / or other gases intended to enter the nasal passages.

[0065] To clearly present the invention, the following disclosure is discussed in conjunction with various exemplary embodiments. Those skilled in the art should understand that features discussed in the context of one embodiment may be included in additional embodiments even if not explicitly set forth when discussing such embodiments, and therefore the teachings of the present disclosure should be viewed as a whole and not as a collection of disjointed embodiments or otherwise limited.

[0066] Next, an air purification device will be described. FIGS. 1-28 clearly illustrate examples of air purification devices in various embodiments. The air purification device can include various components that collectively provide an improved ability to effectively remove pathogens, pollutants, particulates, and / or other undesirable elements from the air before it enters a user's respiratory system. In some embodiments, the air purification device can include various components disposed within a housing. Such components may include, but are not limited to, air treatment components, power components, nose plug components, and other components. The air treatment components may include various aspects for improving the quality of the air before it is received by a user, including, but not limited to, filtration components, fan components, germicidal irradiation components, aroma components, medicinal components, and / or other components that will become apparent to those skilled in the art after having the benefit of this disclosure. Each of these components will be described in more detail throughout this disclosure in the context of various embodiments. Those skilled in the art should understand that each aspect may be included by alternative embodiments.

[0067] The housing will now be described in more detail. Figures 1-5, 7-10, 11-14, 16-25, and 27-28 clearly show examples of housings, which may also be shown in other figures. Housings 1210, 2210, 3210, and 4210 may be provided to substantially enclose an interior space within an air purification device enabled by the present disclosure. Housings 1210, 2210, 3210, and 4210 may provide an enclosure for at least partially enclosing some of the functional components of the air purification device within the interior space defined within the housing.

[0068] In an exemplary configuration, the housing 1210, 2210, 3210, 4210 may be at least partially constructed of, but is not limited to, plastic. The housing may have virtually any diameter and height that maintains operability of the air handling components. In one embodiment, the housing may have a substantially cylindrical shape, for example, but is not limited to, a diameter of about 10 millimeters and about 30 millimeters. The housing may have a height sufficient to enclose the air handling components, for example, but is not limited to, a height between about 7 millimeters and about 14 millimeters.

[0069] The cylindrical shape may preferably accommodate the user's nostrils for improved comfort, fit, and sealing upon insertion into the nostrils. Furthermore, the use of a cylindrical shape may preferably aid in the removal of the air purification device enabled by the present disclosure when use of such a device is no longer desired. In additional embodiments, the housing may be provided in, but is not limited to, a non-cylindrical shape. For example, at least a portion of the housing may be provided in a rectangular shape, a conical shape, a rounded shape, and / or another shape that will be understood by those skilled in the art after having the benefit of the present disclosure. In an example of a rectangular shape, the housing may have, but is not limited to, a width of between about 10 millimeters and about 30 millimeters and a height of between about 7 millimeters and about 14 millimeters.

[0070] The housing 1210, 2210, 3210, 4210 may be configured using a variety of parts, such as upper housing portion 1220, 2220, 3220, lower housing portion 1222, 2222, 3222, and / or other parts that will become apparent after having the benefit of this disclosure. The housing 1210, 2210, 3210, 4210 may be sized with sufficient interior space to receive, hold, and enable operation of additional components, including power components 1310, 2310, 3310, air handling components, and / or other components that may be contained within the interior space.

[0071] In the same or other embodiments, the housing 1210, 2210, 3210, 4210 may further include a housing cap end 4220 and a housing nose end 4222. The cap end 4220 may be opposite the housing nose end 4222. Generally, the housing cap end 4220 may be near the upper housing portion, while the housing nose end 4222 may be near the lower housing portion. Other ends and sides of the housing 1210, 2210, 3210, 4210 may become apparent after having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0072] The housing 1210, 2210, 3210, 4210 may include access points to enable interaction with components contained within the interior space of the housing from outside the housing. The access points may include housing switch access points 1236, 2236, 3236 to enable access to switches 1360, 2360, 3360, such as may be provided by the power component 1310, 2310, 3310. The access points may further include housing charging port access points 2244, 3244 to provide interaction with a charging plug and / or housing electrical contact access points 1242 to facilitate interaction with contact pins, each of which may provide an electrical charge to aspects of the power component 1310, 2310, 3310 and / or additional components held within the interior space of the housing 1210, 2210, 3210, 4210.

[0073] In some embodiments, additional access points may be provided to enable additional functionality of the air purification device enabled by the present disclosure, such as sensor access points, display access points, points for accessing additional interactive elements related to air handling and / or power components, etc.

[0074] In various embodiments, the housing can further include an auxiliary opening 4214 on the housing 1210, 2210, 3210, 4210. The auxiliary opening 4214 can be located in a wall of the housing. Additionally, the auxiliary opening 4214 can be any size. The size and location of the auxiliary opening can be realized by one of ordinary skill in the art after having the benefit of this disclosure. Additionally, the auxiliary opening 4214 can serve various purposes for the device, including, but not limited to, pressure relief, moisture relief, access points, and / or other purposes that one of ordinary skill in the art would realize after having the benefit of this disclosure. Some of these purposes are described in more detail throughout this disclosure.

[0075] As previously mentioned, the auxiliary opening 4214 may be used for moisture removal. In various embodiments, the housing 1210, 2210, 3210, 4210 may further include a desiccant. The desiccant may at least partially remove moisture within the interior space of the housing 1210, 2210, 3210, 4210. In the same or a different embodiment, moisture collected by the desiccant may be at least partially vented through the auxiliary opening 4214. Desiccants include, but are not limited to, calcium chloride, calcium oxide, sodium sulfate, sulfuric acid, magnesium sulfate, and / or other desiccants. Those skilled in the art, after having the benefit of this disclosure, will recognize various types of desiccants, whether chemical or mechanical, that may be used in the present device.

[0076] The housing 1210, 2210, 3210, 4210 may further include housing inlets 1228, 2228, 3228 through which air may pass from a respective exterior location of the housing into an interior space substantially enclosed by the housing. For example, the housing 1210, 2210, 3210, 4210 may include multiple housing inlets 1228, 2228, 3228 at a lower location relative to the housing, such as near the lower end of the lower housing portion 1222, 2222, 3222. This configuration may be advantageous if the interior space is configured such that air can pass substantially unrestricted through aspects of the power component 1310, 2310, 3310 and be received by additional air processing components before being provided to the user's nasal passages.

[0077] In another embodiment, the housing inlet 1228, 2228, 3228 can be located near an upper location of the lower housing portion 1222, 2222, 3222. This configuration can be advantageous when the interior space is configured such that the lower portion of the lower housing portion 1222, 2222, 3222 is substantially filled with the power components 1310, 2310, 3310, and airflow is maximized by entering the interior space of the housing 1210, 2210, 3210, 4210 above where the power components are stored.

[0078] The housing inlets 1228, 2228, 3228 may be configured at various angles, which may affect the flow characteristics of air entering the interior space of the housing 1210, 2210, 3210, 4210 from an external location. For example, the housing inlets 1228, 2228, 3228 may be configured at an angled orientation, which may improve the flow characteristics of air circulating within the interior space of the housing 1210, 2210, 3210, 4210, as may be driven by the fan component 1410, 3410. In other embodiments, the housing inlets 1228, 2228, 3228 may be provided in a substantially vertical orientation, which may suitably provide flow characteristics that improve circulation for alternative fan configurations that will be apparent to those skilled in the art after having the benefit of this disclosure. Those skilled in the art will recognize additional configurations of the housing inlets 1228, 2228, 3228, including, without limitation, horizontal, curved, angled, slotted, mixed, and other configured orientations.

[0079] In some embodiments, the lower housing portion 1222 may be provided in multiple pieces. For example, the lower housing portion 1222 may be provided having a lower housing portion first piece 1224 and a lower housing portion second piece 1226. The lower housing portion first piece 1224 may be received by and substantially retained by the lower housing portion second piece 1226. For example, the lower housing portion first piece 1224 may include one or more housing male connecting members 1232, and the lower housing second piece 1226 may include one or more housing female connecting members 1234. The housing male connecting members 1232 on the lower housing portion first piece 1226 may be oriented to correspond with the housing female connecting members 1234 on the lower housing portion second piece 1226. In this configuration, the housing male connecting member 1232 can be inserted into the housing female connecting member 1234 to substantially hold both the lower housing portion first piece 1224 and the lower housing portion second piece 1226 together in a coupled state.

[0080] In some embodiments, the housing 1210 may include guideways to facilitate insertion of the housing 1210 into the case 1810, which is described in more detail later in this disclosure. The guideways may advantageously assist in ensuring that the housing 1210 is received in the case 1810 in a preferred orientation. For example, the case 1810 may be provided with electrical contacts 1844 that can provide power to an air purification device enabled by the present disclosure with corresponding electrical contacts 1370. In this example, the guideways may assist in orienting the housing 1210 to align the case 1810 with the device's charging contacts to enable the transfer of power. In additional embodiments, the guideways may include features to assist in improving secure reception of the air purification device enabled by the present disclosure within the case 1810 during insertion.

[0081] In another embodiment, the lower housing portion 1222, 2222, 3222 may include a housing switch access point 1236, 2236, 3236 and / or a housing charging port access point 2244, 3244 on its bottom surface. In this embodiment, the switch 1360, 2360, 3360 and / or charging port 2380, 3380 provided by the power component 1310, 2310, 3310 may be at least partially threaded through the access point so that it can be interacted with by a user. For example, if a housing switch access point 1236, 2236, 3236 is included, the switch 1360, 2360, 3360 provided by the power component 1310, 2310, 3310 may be threaded through the housing switch access point 1236, 2236, 3236 so that sufficient material of the switch 1360, 2360, 3360 is accessible for manipulation by a user. In another embodiment, if a housing charging port access point 2244, 3244 is provided, the charging port 2380, 3380 may be at least partially threaded through the housing charging port 2380, 3380 access point so as to be able to accept a charging cable and / or other cable that may enable both power and / or data transfer.

[0082] The housing 1210, 2210, 3210, 4210 may further include an interface for receiving and / or retaining a nose plug component 1710, 2710, 3710, 4710, which may be distal from a bottom surface of the housing. The nose plug component 1710, 2710, 3710, 4710 is described in further detail later in this disclosure. In this embodiment, the housing 1210, 2210, 3210, 4210 may include features for applying friction to the nose plug component 1710, 2710, 3710, 4710, textured aspects or protrusions for receiving corresponding indentations on the interior surface of the nose plug component 1710, 2710, 3710, 4710, or may otherwise be configured to operably retain the nose plug component 1710, 2710, 3710, 4710 in a removably attached configuration to the housing 1210, 2210, 3210, 4210. Additionally, in the same or other embodiments, the nose plug component 1710, 2710, 3710, 4710 may include textured aspects, protrusions, or ridges on the exterior that can help apply friction to at least a portion of the nostril when the device is in use. In exemplary embodiments, the nose plug components 1210, 2210, 3210, 4210 may include, but are not limited to, three circumferential ridges, although one of ordinary skill in the art, after having the benefit of this disclosure, will appreciate the various numbers of ridges that may be included on the nose plug components.

[0083] In some embodiments, the housing 2210 can include a locking interface 2250. In some example embodiments having a locking interface, the locking interface 2250 may function as at least a part of the housing 2210, such as being included by the upper housing portion 2220. In other example embodiments having a locking interface, the locking interface 2250 may be separate and distinct from the upper housing portion 2220. Those skilled in the art will recognize these various examples as non-limiting.

[0084] Locking interface 2250 can include a locking interface upper portion 2252 and a locking interface lower portion 2254. Locking interface upper portion 2252 can include a locking member 2256 that projects downwardly to be received by locking interface lower portion 2254. Locking interface lower portion 2254 can include a locking lip 2258 that continues at least partially around the periphery of locking interface lower portion 2254. Locking lip 2258 can include a locking gap 2260 having a sufficient width such that locking member 2256 of locking interface upper portion 2252 can pass through locking gap 2260.

[0085] The distance between the lower portions of the locking members 2256 can be configured such that, once threaded through the locking gap 2260, the locking members 2256 can be rotated in a first locking direction to receive the locking lip 2258 and set the locking interface 2250 in a locked position. Once set in the locked position, the locking members 2256 can be substantially restricted from longitudinal and latitudinal movement by the reception of the locking lip 2258, substantially restricting access to the interior space provided by the housing 2210.

[0086] Additionally, the locked position may be reversible by rotating the locking interface top portion 2252 in a second, locking direction to disengage the locking lip 2258 from the locking member 2256 and set the locking interface 2250 to an unlocked position. Once set in the unlocked position, the locking member 2256 can be withdrawn through the locking gap 2260 to provide access to the interior space enclosed by the housing 2210.

[0087] In some embodiments, the locking interface top portion 2252 can include a ring of material extending at least partially around the circumference of the locking interface top portion 2252. If included, the ring of material provided by the locking interface top portion 2252 can advantageously aid in inserting the locking member 2256 into the locking gap 2260 to a depth sufficient to accommodate the locking lip 2258.

[0088] In the same or other embodiments, the air purification device may further include a cap 4216. Those skilled in the art will understand that the device may be used with or without the cap. However, the cap 4216 may preferably provide a male fitting for a supply line to a gas source. Supply lines and gas sources are described in more detail below. The cap 4216 may be removably attached to the housing 4210 via a cap receiving feature 4212 of the housing 4210, which is described in more detail below. In general, the cap 4216 may facilitate the direct administration of gas to at least a portion of the housing 4210 via a gas receiving opening 4226. In exemplary configurations, the opening may be located virtually anywhere on the cap. In some embodiments, the opening may be located opposite the cap receiving feature 4212. In the same or other embodiments, the gas receiving opening 4226 may be located on a cannula 4218, which is described in more detail below. Moreover, the gas receiving openings may be of virtually any shape and any size, as will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art after having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0089] In one or more embodiments, the cap 4216 can additionally comprise a cannula 4218. In some embodiments, the cannula may be disposed at one end of the cap 4216. The cannula 4218 can have a cannula diameter. The cannula 4218 can preferably have a cannula end that can be used to fit onto the end of a supply line 4224. The supply line 4224 can have a supply line diameter. The supply line can be used to connect the cannula 4218 to a gas source 4228. In embodiments, the cannula diameter can be smaller than the supply line diameter.

[0090] In exemplary configurations, the cap may be at least partially constructed of, but is not limited to, plastic or rubber. The cap may have virtually any diameter, circumference, and height so as to maintain operability of any components therein. In one embodiment, the cap may have, but is not limited to, a diameter of approximately 0.576 inches. In another or the same embodiment, the height of the cap and cannula combination may be, but is not limited to, approximately 0.608 inches. In the same or a different embodiment, the height of the cannula may be, but is not limited to, approximately 0.300 inches.

[0091] In embodiments, the device may further include a gas source 4228 from which or into which gas may be released. Examples of the gas source 4228 include, but are not limited to, a pressurized tank or a continuous positive airway pressure device. Additionally, the gas source 4228 may be attached to a supply line 4224. The supply line 4224 may suitably assist in the supply of gas from the gas source 4228 to the device. As previously described, the supply line 4224 may have a supply line diameter. The supply line may be selectively attached to the cap 4216 such that gas from the supply line may be received through a gas receiving opening 4226 in the cap 4216. In various embodiments, the supply line 4224 may be made of, but is not limited to, plastic or rubber. Additionally, air within the supply line 4224 may enter the cannula 4218 through the gas receiving opening 4226. As the gas continues from the cannula 4218 into the cap 4216, the effective diameter of the cap may increase. This increased diameter may also increase the effectiveness of filtration as air is supplied through the filtering component 4510. Those skilled in the art will appreciate the various advantages that may be found from increasing the diameter from the supply line to the cannula and cap.

[0092] In embodiments, the housing 4210 can include a cap receiving feature 4212 that can suitably assist in temporarily locking the cap 4216 to the housing 4210. In various embodiments, the cap receiving feature 4212 can be at least partially flexible to allow for attachment and / or removal of the cap 4216. The cap receiving feature 4212 can be provided near the cap end 4220 of the housing 4210. In various embodiments, the cap receiving feature 4212 includes a circumferential ridge around the cap end 4220 of the housing 4210. In other embodiments, the cap receiving feature 4212 includes a partial rim on one or more sides of the cap end 4220 of the housing 4210. Those skilled in the art will appreciate various mechanical structures that can be included in the cap receiving feature 4212 to allow for temporary attachment and / or removal of the cap 4216 to the housing 4210 or other portion of the device.

[0093] The power components will now be described in more detail. Figures 1-5, 7-8, 12-14, 16-17, and 22-23 clearly illustrate examples of power components, which may also be shown in other figures. Power components 1310, 2310, 3310 may be disposed substantially within the interior space to provide power to the air treatment components. The power components 1310, 2310, 3310 may advantageously assist in conditioning, storing, and providing power to the various components of the air purification device enabled by the present disclosure. For example, the power components 1310, 2310, 3310 may provide power to the various air treatment components held within the interior space provided by the housing 1210, 2210, 3210, 4210. The power components 1310, 2310, 3310 may include power supply equipment 1330, batteries 1340, 2340, 3340, battery charging equipment 1350, and other aspects to assist in the transmission and supply of power.

[0094] The power component 1310, 2310, 3310 can include a battery 1340, 2340, 3340. In some embodiments, the battery may be rechargeable. In other embodiments, the battery may be removable and replaceable from the interior space. The battery 1340, 2340, 3340 can be of virtually any size that can fit within the housing 1210, 2210, 3210, 4210. For example, without limitation, the battery may be substantially cylindrical. In one example configuration, the battery may be, without limitation, between about 14 millimeters and about 20 millimeters in length and between about 5 millimeters and about 8 millimeters in diameter.

[0095] Those skilled in the art will recognize various additional battery configurations that may be used with air purification devices as enabled by the present disclosure. Exemplary batteries include, but are not limited to, lithium-ion batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, rechargeable batteries, replaceable batteries, and / or other battery types as would be understood by one skilled in the art.

[0096] The power components 1310, 2310, 3310 may include a battery charging device 1350. In one embodiment, the battery charging device 1350 may receive external power from an external power source, condition the external power into charging power receivable by the battery 1340, 2340, 3340, and store at least a portion of the charging power in the battery for use as power by the air treatment components. The power components 1310, 2310, 3310 may control the application of charging power to the battery 1340, 2340, 3340 to improve the state of charge of the battery while preferably reducing the likelihood of the battery being overcharged. Those skilled in the art will recognize various configurations of the battery charging device 1350 that are intended to be within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art will understand that additional battery charging equipment and other functions may be included by the power components 1310, 2310, 3310 to monitor, without limitation, the state of charge of the battery, the number of charge cycles applied to the battery, the number of discharge cycles applied to the battery, the battery temperature, the battery voltage, irregularities detected in or about the battery, and other functions that may be provided by the battery charging equipment.

[0097] The power components 1310, 2310, 3310 may further include a power supply 1330 for supplying power from the batteries 1340, 2340, 3340 to various components contained within the interior space of an air purification device enabled by the present disclosure. The power supply 1330 may suitably control the flow of power to various processing components that operate using the power. For example, the power supply 1330 may control the power state of the fan components 1410, 3410, the operating speed of fans contained by the fan components, the operation of the UV light source 3630 contained by the germicidal irradiation component 3610, the duty cycle of such UV light source 3630, such as if provided as an LED, and other power-related operating variables that will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art after having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0098] The power components 1310, 2310, 3310 may include electrical wires 1332, 3332 that may facilitate the transmission of power from various aspects contained by the power components. Those skilled in the art will recognize additional configurations in which the electrical wires 1332, 3332 may be replaced, at least in part, by electrical contacts 1370, electrical traces provided on a circuit board, and / or the like, without limitation.

[0099] The power components 1310, 2310, 3310 may include switches 1360, 2360, 3360 that can be toggled by a user to enable or disable the application of power to various air treatment components contained within the interior space of an air purification device enabled by the present disclosure. The switches 1360, 2360, 3360 may be toggled between various states, which may include, but are not limited to, an on state and an off state. In some embodiments, the switches 1360, 2360, 3360 may include additional states to control the selective engagement of various air treatment components dependent on the power provided by the power components 1310, 2310, 3310. In additional embodiments, the switches 1360, 2360, 3360 may be operable via sensors that detect contact. In other embodiments, the switches may provide a continuous selection of power application, as will be understood by those skilled in the art. In various embodiments, the switches 1360, 2360, 3360 and other power control mechanisms may be located substantially anywhere in relation to the housing 1210, 2210, 3210, 4210, provided that such location does not interfere with the operability of the air handling components.

[0100] The power component 1310, 2310, 3310 may include an interface for allowing the battery charging device 1350 to receive external power from an external power source. In one example, such an interface may include electrical contacts 1370. In this example, the electrical contacts 1370 may be configured to align with corresponding electrical contacts from the external power source, for example, the case 1810 with case electrical contacts 1844. In this example, once aligned, the electrical contacts 1370, 1844 can enable the flow of external power from the external power source through the electrical contacts 1370 to the battery charging device 1350 before being stored in the battery 1340.

[0101] In another example, an interface that allows the battery charging device to receive external power may include a charging port 2380, 3380. In some embodiments, the charging port 2380, 3380 may be provided as a USB-based port. Examples of USB-based ports may include USB Type-A, USB Type-B, micro USB, USB Type-C, and other USB standards that would be apparent to one skilled in the art. Furthermore, one skilled in the art will recognize additional plugs and corresponding ports that can supply power, which are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure, without limitation.

[0102] In some embodiments, the charging port 2380, 3380 and corresponding charging cable may be configured to allow data transmission in addition to the transmission of external power. In this embodiment, the functionality of an air purification device enabled by the present disclosure may be controlled, modified, updated, or otherwise affected in response to data transmitted via the charging port 2380, 3380. In another example, a monitoring component provided by an air purification device enabled by the present disclosure may transmit data from such an air purification device to an external computing device to perform analysis regarding sensor-sensed conditions, operating logs, battery health, and / or other information that may be detected, stored, and made available by the monitoring component and / or other aspects of the air purification device enabled by the present disclosure. Data transmission may establish a wired connection with another electronic device, such as a console, that can analyze the transmitted information regarding the presence or absence of a virus in a user utilizing the air purification device, such as, without limitation, the presence or absence of the COVID-19 virus.

[0103] The air treatment component will now be generally described. Various components included by the air treatment component will be described in more detail throughout this disclosure. The air treatment component can interact with air flowing through an interior space of an air purification device, such as that enabled by the present disclosure, to alter the characteristics of such air. For example, the air treatment component may include a filtration component 1510, 2510, 3510, 4510 to remove particulates, pathogens, microorganisms, and other undesirable elements from the air passing through the interior space. In another example, a germicidal irradiation component 3610 may at least partially sterilize aspects of the air passing through the interior space. These and other components included in the air treatment component will be described in more detail below.

[0104] The fan component will now be described in more detail. Figures 1, 7-8, and 20-23 clearly illustrate examples of fan components, which may also be shown in other figures. A fan component 1410, 3410 may be provided to assist in the movement of air throughout the interior space of an air purification device, such as that enabled by the present disclosure, during operation. The fan component 1410, 3410 may include a motor 1420, a fan 1440, 3440 having fan blades 1442, 3442, and an optional fan shroud 1444. The motor 1420 may be operably attached to a power supply 1330 and / or a battery 1340, 2340, 3340 to receive power that may be used to drive the motor 1420. The speed at which the motor 1420 is operated may be controlled at least in part by the power supply 1330, for example, by controlling the voltage applied to the motor, by controlling the frequency of pulses supplied to a pulse width modulated motor, or in any other manner as would be understood by one skilled in the art.

[0105] The fan 1440, 3440 can be oriented to draw air from the housing inlet 1228, 2228, 3228. This drawn air can be moved at least in part by rotating fan blades 1442, 3442 provided by the fan 1440, 3440 and through, over, past, or otherwise relative to other air treatment components contained within the interior space. The fan component 1410, 3410 can preferably move the air through filters provided by a filtration component 1510, 2510, 3510, 4510, past a UV light source 3630 provided by a germicidal irradiation component 3610, through a fragrance material provided by an aroma component 2530, 3530, and / or provide active pressure within the interior space as may otherwise be provided by air treatment components included within the interior space of an air purification device enabled by the present disclosure.

[0106] In one embodiment, the fan blades 1442 may be at least partially surrounded by a fan shroud 1444. In this embodiment, the fan shroud 1444 can help control the direction and movement of air passing by the fan blades. In some embodiments, the fan shroud 1444 may be contained by at least a portion of the housing 1210. For example, the fan shroud 1444 may be incorporated into at least a portion of the upper housing portion 1220. In other embodiments, the fan shroud 1444 may be provided as a separate member contained within an interior space defined within the upper housing portion 1220, 2220, 3220 and the lower housing portion 1222, 2222, 3222. In some embodiments, the fan shroud 1444 may include an inner diameter to accommodate a filter provided by the filtration member 1510, 2510, 3510, 4510. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the fan shroud 1444 should be included in such embodiments and will appreciate additional advantageous uses for the fan shroud 1444.

[0107] The filtering component will now be described in more detail. Figures 7-8, 16-18, 20-23, and 27 clearly illustrate examples of filtering components, which may also be shown in other figures. The filtering component 1510, 2510, 3510, 4510 may include various filters and other elements to affect the composition of air passing through or around the filtering component. The filtering component may also have a filtering diameter. In some embodiments, the filtering diameter may be larger than the supply line diameter of the supply line 4224. As previously mentioned, increasing the diameter of the interior of the cap 4216 may advantageously increase the filtering efficacy of the filtering component 4510, without limitation. Generally, air passing through the filtering component 1510, 2510, 3510, 4510 may be directed to the nose plug component. In one embodiment, the filtration component 1510, 2510, 3510, 4510 includes a carbon filter 1524, 2524, 3524, which can suitably remove unwanted particulates, impurities including microorganisms, and other substances from the air passing through the carbon filter. In one example provided without limitation, the carbon filter can have a thickness of between about 5 millimeters and about 10 millimeters. The air can be passed through the carbon filter 1524, 2524, 3524 by positive pressure applied by the fan component 1410, 3410 described above. In some embodiments, the carbon filter can include activated carbon, as will be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0108] The carbon filters 1524, 2524, 3524 can reduce the entry of airborne pathogens, including viruses and bacteria, into the respiratory system. The carbon filters 1524, 2524, 3524 can filter gaseous volatile organic compounds and other undesirable substances, such as, without limitation, cigarette smoke, dried paint, benzene, toluene, xylene, and / or other substances. Carbon filtration can also filter unpleasant odors from the air, potentially contributing to reduced stress, increased feelings of calmness, and well-being on the part of the user. The carbon filters 1524, 2524, 3524 can include activated carbon.

[0109] In another embodiment, the filtration device can include a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. In one non-limiting example, the HEPA filter may be provided in a wafer configuration having a thickness of between about 5 millimeters and about 10 millimeters. The HEPA filter 1522, 2522, 3522 can reduce potentially harmful agents and contaminants, such as airborne bacteria, dust, pollen, mold, and other types of airborne particles. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, HEPA filtration can remove at least about 98% of airborne contaminants having a size of about 0.3 microns or larger. Furthermore, the HEPA filter may be user-replaceable.

[0110] In some embodiments, either a carbon filter 1524, 2524, 3524 or a HEPA filter 1522, 2522, 3522 may be provided as the only filtering technology included by the filtering component. In other embodiments, a two-stage filtering process may be provided, whereby air is moved using a fan through a carbon filter 1524, 2524, 3524 for an initial filtering pass, and then moved through a HEPA filter 1522, 2522, 3522 for an additional filtering pass. In some embodiments, the filter may include and / or provide, without limitation, a scented or otherwise substance capable of interacting with olfactory neurons. Those skilled in the art will recognize additional filter types that may be included by the filtering component to affect the removal of particulates, pathogens, and other undesirable elements from the air passing through the filtering component 1510, 2510, 3510, 4510.

[0111] The aroma component will now be described in more detail. Figures 17-19 and 24 clearly illustrate examples of aroma components, which may also be shown in other figures. The inclusion of an aroma component 2530, 3530 may advantageously enhance a user's sense of well-being or calmness, thereby reducing the user's stress. The aroma component may be located within the housing 2210, 3210, as contemplated herein, without limitation. The aroma component may also be located after the filtration component 2510, 3510, to receive air after it has passed through the filtration component.

[0112] In one embodiment, an aroma component 2530, 3530 can be included to enhance the aroma of the air passing through the interior space. The aroma component 2530, 3530 can suitably impart a pleasant or otherwise desirable aroma to the air that enhances the mood and psychological well-being of a user operating an air purification device such as that enabled by the present disclosure. In another embodiment, the aroma component 2530, 3530 can provide essential oils, nasal decongestant, and / or other substances that can be added to the air before being delivered to the user's nasal passages.

[0113] The aroma component 2530, 3530 can include an aroma reservoir for holding an aromatic material capable of providing an aroma. Exemplary aroma reservoirs can include porous materials, sponges, sponge-like materials, wafers, mesh, absorbent materials, liquid bowls, and other materials or containers that would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art. Without limitation, an exemplary aroma reservoir configured as a porous material can have a thickness between about 5 millimeters and about 10 millimeters. The aromatic material can be perfume, essential oils, aromatic solutions, natural ingredients, synthetic ingredients, and / or another material that would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art after having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0114] The aroma component 2530, 3530 may be configured such that upon application of positive pressure by the fan component 1410, 3410, air passes through the interior space of an air purification device, such as that enabled by the present disclosure, into sufficient contact with the aroma reservoir, thereby transferring at least a portion of the aroma provided by the aromatic material to the air. The aromatic air may then pass through the nose component and enter the user's nasal cavity, engaging olfactory receptors and providing the user with a psychological and / or satisfying sensation.

[0115] The medicinal component will now be described in more detail. FIG. 27 illustrates an example of a medicinal component, which may also be shown in other figures. The inclusion of medicinal component 4540 may favorably promote the user's health, thereby reducing the user's susceptibility to negative reactions to various conditions. The medicinal component may be disposed within housing 4210, without limitation, as contemplated herein. In one embodiment, the medicinal component may be disposed after filtration component 4510 to receive air after it has passed through the filtration component. In other embodiments, the medicinal component may be disposed within housing 4210 before filtration component 4510.

[0116] In one embodiment, a medicinal component 4540 can be included to introduce a medicant into the gas passing through the interior space. The medicinal component 4540 can preferably apply various medicants in different amounts and / or different forms, such as, but not limited to, an aerosol.

[0117] The medicinal component 4540 may include a medicinal reservoir for holding a medicant. Exemplary medicinal reservoirs may include porous materials, sponges, sponge-like materials, wafers, meshes, absorbent materials, liquid bowls, and other materials or containers that would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art. Without limitation, exemplary medicinal reservoirs constructed as porous materials may have a thickness of between about 5 millimeters and about 10 millimeters. The medicinal material may be a natural component, a synthetic component, a medicinal solution, and / or another material that would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art after having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0118] In one embodiment, the medicated component 4540 may be configured such that upon application of positive pressure by the gas source 4228, gas passes through the interior space of an air purifying device, such as that enabled by the present disclosure, and sufficiently contacts the medicated reservoir, thereby transferring at least a portion of the medication provided by the medicated material to the gas. The medicated air then passes through the nose plug component and into the user's nasal passages.

[0119] The germicidal irradiation component will now be described in further detail. Figures 21-23 demonstrate examples of germicidal irradiation components, which may also be shown in other figures. The germicidal irradiation component 3610 can emit ultraviolet electromagnetic radiation that at least partially kills harmful microorganisms, bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens in the air before they enter the nasal cavity.

[0120] The germicidal irradiation component 3610 may be configured to emit electromagnetic energy capable of at least partially sterilizing materials contained in air that passes through and comes into contact with the electromagnetic energy. For the sake of simplicity of this disclosure, electromagnetic energy will be discussed in the context of, without limitation, ultraviolet light. Those skilled in the art will recognize additional electromagnetic energy that may additionally provide germicidal and / or disinfecting benefits that are intended to be within the scope of this disclosure.

[0121] The germicidal illumination component 3610 can include a light source capable of emitting light having a frequency that promotes sterilization of undesirable contaminants, pathogens, and other elements in the air passing by the germicidal illumination component 3610. The light source can be an ultraviolet light source capable of emitting light in a frequency range within the ultraviolet spectrum, as will be understood by those skilled in the art. In some embodiments, the ultraviolet light source can include a light emitting diode (LED) 3630 that emits or otherwise provides light in the ultraviolet spectrum. In some embodiments, multiple ultraviolet light sources can be included on a substrate 3640, such as a circuit board, on which the ultraviolet light source 3630 is mounted.

[0122] The ultraviolet light source 3630 may be powered at least in part by the power supply 1330 of the power component 3310, for example, via the substrate 3640. In some embodiments, the ultraviolet light source may be provided in a dimmable and / or otherwise controllable configuration. For example, the brightness and power applied to the ultraviolet light source may be controlled at least in part by affecting the duty cycle at which the light source operates. The duty cycle may be controlled by, but is not limited to, the power supply, other aspects included by the germicidal irradiation component 3610, and / or the power component 3310.

[0123] In some embodiments, the germicidal irradiation component 3610 can include multiple substrates 3640, each including multiple ultraviolet light sources 3630 capable of emitting a sufficient amount of ultraviolet light to substantially sterilize contaminants contained in air passing through the germicidal irradiation component 3610. The intensity of light emitted by the ultraviolet light sources 3630 can be controlled with respect to the number of ultraviolet light sources included by the germicidal irradiation component 3610. For example, multiple high-intensity ultraviolet light sources can be provided by the germicidal irradiation component 3610 such that a high degree of germicidal light is emitted by a selected number of the ultraviolet light sources. In another example, more ultraviolet light sources can provide germicidal light at a lower intensity, but collectively provide a sufficient amount of germicidal light over a wider coverage area.

[0124] In some embodiments, the germicidal irradiation component 3610 can include additional light sources and / or other electromagnetic energy emitting sources to further sterilize aspects of the air passing through the germicidal irradiation component 3610. Such light sources can include properties indicative of ultraviolet-C (UV-C) light, also known as short wavelength ultraviolet, that destroy the ability of pathogens and other materials to replicate after exposure to the emitted ultraviolet light. Additional germicidal light sources will be apparent to those of skill in the art after having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0125] The nose plug components will now be described in more detail. Figures 1-4, 6-13, 15-20, and 22-28 clearly illustrate examples of nose plug components, which may also be shown in other figures. The nose plug components 1710, 2710, 3710, 4710 may be operably attached to the housings 1210, 2210, 3210, 4210 for removably insertion into the nostrils to form at least a partial seal with the nasal passages. The nose plug components 1710, 2710, 3710, 4710 may be constructed of durable materials that are substantially non-toxic to humans, such as silicon or graphene, to minimize potential damage when handled.

[0126] The nose plug component 1710, 2710, 3710, 4710 may be operably attached to at least a portion of the housing 1210, 2210, 3210, 4210 provided by an air purification device enabled by the present disclosure. The nose plug component 1710, 2710, 3710, 4710 may include a nose plug 1720, 2720, 3720 having a nose plug proximal end 1722, 2722, 3722, 4722 and a nose plug nostril end 1724, 2724, 3724, 4724. The nose plug 1720, 2720, 3720 may have a circumference and diameter sized such that when inserted into the nostril, it can remain in place within the nostril secured by friction. In one embodiment, the nose plugs 1720, 2720, 3720 can have, but are not limited to, a diameter between about 8 millimeters and about 14 millimeters, and a length between about 15 millimeters and about 25 millimeters.

[0127] The nose plugs 1720, 2720, 3720 can include nose plug openings 1726, 2726, 3726, 4726 near the nose plug nostril ends 1724, 2724, 3724, 4724. The nose plugs 1720, 2720, 3720 can further include nose plug protruding lips 1728, 2728, 3728 near the nose plug proximal ends 1722, 2722, 3722, 4722. Additional features may be provided by the nose plugs, as will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art after having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0128] In one embodiment, provided without limitation, the nose plugs 1720, 2720, 3720 may be constructed at least in part using a flexible material, such as silicone, so that they can be inserted into a user's nostril with minimal or negligible irritation. Furthermore, by using a flexible material, the nose plugs can provide at least a partial seal within the nostril to provide access to the user's nasal passages upon operation. The nose plugs 1720, 2720, 3720 may be configured such that the nose plugs can be at least partially inserted into the nostrils providing a passageway from the interior space provided by the housing 1210, 2210, 3210, 4210 through the nose plugs 1720, 2720, 3720 into the nasal passages. Thus, in use, such nose plug components 1710, 2710, 3710, 4710 can extend into the nostrils to a depth of, without limitation, between about 15 millimeters and about 25 millimeters, as shown in FIG. 24 .

[0129] The nose plug 1720, 2720, 3720 may include a nose plug opening 1726, 2726, 3726, 4726 that extends substantially through the interior of the nose plug. The nose plug opening 1726, 2726, 3726, 4726 may extend substantially from the nose plug proximal end 1722, 2722, 3722, 4722 through the nose plug 1720, 2720, 3720 to the nose plug nostril end 1724, 2724, 3724, 4724. Air and / or gas may be moved through the nose plug opening 1726, 2726, 3726, 4726 actively by operation of the fan component 1410, 3410 described above, passively by breathing by a user, via pressure from a gas source, and / or in other manners as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. In some embodiments, the nose plug openings 1726, 2726, 3726, 4726 can include a mesh material that can act as an additional layer of filtration for any remaining undesirable particulate matter that has not yet been filtered as air moves through the air purification device enabled by the present disclosure.

[0130] The nose plug component 1710, 2710, 3710, 4710 may include a nose plug protrusion lip 1728, 2728, 3728, which may advantageously prevent the nose plug from being inserted undesirably deep into the user's nasal passages. The nose plug protrusion lip 1728, 2728, 3728 may be substantially continuous with the nose plug 1720, 2720, 3720 and may be constructed using the same material as the nose plug. The nose plug protrusion lip 1728, 2728, 3728 may advantageously provide a stop mechanism and therefore physical resistance against over-insertion of the nose plug 1720, 2720, 3720. In some embodiments, the nose plug protrusion lip may increase stiffness over the portion of the nose plug that is inserted into the nostril, enhancing its stopping ability.

[0131] Cases will now be described in more detail. Figures 9-10 illustrate examples of cases, which may also be shown in other figures. In some embodiments, a case 1810 may be provided to receive, store, charge, and otherwise interact with an air purification device such as those enabled by the present disclosure. For example, case 1810 may be configured to receive the air purification device when not in use, such as when not inserted into a user's nasal passages.

[0132] In one embodiment, the case 1810 may include a case housing 1820 extending from a case housing lower end 1824 to a case housing upper end 1822. The case housing 1820 may include a case receiving slot 1830 at the case housing upper end 1822 for receiving and / or substantially securing a housing 1210 of an air purification device enabled by the present disclosure. The case housing receiving slot 1830 may include a case receiving slot opening 1832 through which the housing 1210 may be inserted. The case housing receiving slot 1830 may include a protruding guideway that may interact with a recessed guideway included by the housing 1210 to assist in properly orienting the housing 1210 upon insertion into the case receiving slot 1830.

[0133] The case 1810 may include a case power device 1840 to assist in charging an air purification device enabled by the present disclosure when inserted into the case 1810. For example, the case 1810 may include a case power device 1840 that can receive external power from an external power source via a case charging port 1842 that may be accessible via the case charging port access point 1834. The case power device 1840 may condition and / or otherwise affect the external power to make charging power that can be received by electrical contacts 1370 provided by the power component 1310 of an air purification device enabled by the present disclosure. For example, when the air purification device housing 1210 is inserted into the case receiving slot 1830, the electrical contacts 1370 provided by the air purification device may operably connect with the electrical contacts 1844 provided by the case 1810. Once contact is established, charging power is supplied by the case 1810 to the air purification device battery 1340. In some embodiments, the electrical charging circuitry of the air purification device can interact with power received by the case 1810 and condition the power for storage in the battery 1340 contained by the power component 1310. In other embodiments, power may be provided by the case 1810 to be applied directly to the battery 1340, thus eliminating the need for a separate electrical charging circuitry within the air purification device itself.

[0134] The case 1810 may include a case charging port 1842, which may be provided as a USB port and / or other port capable of transmitting power, as described above in the context of the power component 1310. In some embodiments, the case charging port 1842 may enable transmission of data received from an air purification device positioned within the case receiving slot 1830. The case 1810 may operate as a pass-through device, providing access between the case charging port 1842 provided by the case 1810 and components held within the interior space of the air purification device. In other embodiments, active devices may be included within the case 1810 that can at least partially regulate power, facilitate data transmission, and / or otherwise assist in the operation of an air purification device received by the case receiving slot 1830.

[0135] Case 1810 may include a case lower panel 1826 located at case housing bottom end 1824. Case lower panel 1826 may be removably attached to case 1810 and may provide access to the interior volume of the case upon removal from the case. One or more case feet 1828 may optionally be provided to improve the stability of case 1810 when placed on a surface and / or reduce the possibility of damage to surfaces on which the case may be placed.

[0136] The monitoring component will now be described in more detail. In one embodiment, a monitoring component may be provided that includes a sensor that detects the condition of the air contained by the environmental space adjacent to the sensor. The condition may be reported via a communicatively connected display device. The monitoring component may include one or more sensor components that assist in monitoring aspects of the user's health, air quality, operational effectiveness, and other metrics that will be understood by those skilled in the art. The monitoring component may further include technology that can detect the presence or absence of potentially dangerous viruses, bacteria, and / or other agents in the user.

[0137] The monitoring component may include sensors capable of detecting one or more environmental conditions in the vicinity of a user of the device. The environmental conditions may include, but are not limited to, the presence or absence of viruses, bacteria, carcinogens, pollutants in the air, as well as temperature, precipitation, and humidity. The sensor component may be communicatively and operatively connected to a display component capable of displaying data regarding the environmental conditions.

[0138] In another embodiment, the monitoring component may be used to indicate the possible presence of impurities, such as microorganisms, in the environmental space adjacent the monitoring component. In some embodiments, the monitoring component may be located within the housing and thus may be used to indicate the possible presence of microorganisms in the environmental space accessible through the housing 4210. More particularly, the monitoring component may be able to detect the presence of microorganisms that have entered the device but not yet been filtered. In other embodiments, the monitoring component may be located in the nose plug component. In these embodiments, the monitoring component may be used to indicate the possible presence of microorganisms in the environmental space accessible through the nose plug component 4710. More particularly, the monitoring component may detect the presence of microorganisms exhaled by the user. However, one of ordinary skill in the art, after having the benefit of this disclosure, will understand the various locations of the monitoring component as well as the multiple purposes of the monitoring component.

[0139] In the same or other embodiments, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the monitoring component can operate using mechanical or chemical devices. In these embodiments, the monitoring component can be used with or without electronics. In most embodiments, the monitoring component can provide evidence that impurities may be present in the environmental space. Additionally, the monitoring component may test for various microorganisms and / or microorganisms. Some examples of devices that may be used in the monitoring component may include, but are not limited to, reactive test strips, reagents, stains, and disks. Those skilled in the art will appreciate various other devices that may be used to test for impurities in the environmental space.

[0140] The monitoring component may operate using a computing device including a processor that can read from a memory and operating instructions stored in the memory, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, or the monitoring component may assist in the analysis and presentation of information performed by an external computing device related to the operation of the monitoring component, including but not limited to:

[0141] In operation, the air purification device enabled by the present disclosure can be used to purify and / or reduce undesirable substances from air intended to enter the nasal passages. Those skilled in the art will appreciate the methods of use enabled by the above disclosure. Those skilled in the art, after having the benefit of this disclosure, will appreciate additional methods within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure for performing the operations provided by the examples herein. Such additional methods are intended to be encompassed by the present disclosure.

[0142] While various aspects have been described in the above disclosure, the description of this disclosure is intended to illustrate, not limit, the scope of the invention. The present invention is defined by the appended claims, not by the examples and examples provided in the above disclosure. Those skilled in the art will appreciate, after having the benefit of the above disclosure, additional aspects of the invention that may be realized in alternative embodiments. Other aspects, advantages, embodiments, and modifications are within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. 1. A nasal gas purifying device comprising: a housing substantially enclosing an interior space; a gas treatment component disposed within the interior space for at least partially purifying gas for delivery to the nasal cavity, the gas treatment component comprising: a gas treatment component comprising a filtration component for removing impurities from the gas; a nose plug component operably attached to a nasal end of the housing and removably inserted into a nostril to form at least a partial seal with the nasal cavity such that the gas passing through the filtering component is directed into the nasal cavity through the nose plug component; a cap removably attached to a cap end of the housing and configured to receive the gas supplied from a gas source via a supply line, the cap end being distal to the nasal end.

2. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the supply line has a supply line diameter that is selectively attached to the cap such that the gas from the supply line is received through a gas receiving opening in the cap.

3. 3. The device of claim 2, wherein the supply line is received by the cap having a filtration diameter greater than the supply line diameter, increasing the filtering efficiency of the filtering component.

4. 3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the cap includes a cannula for receiving the supply line through which the gas flows, the supply line diameter being greater than the cannula diameter of the cannula.

5. 10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the impurities comprise microorganisms.

6. 10. The device of claim 1, wherein the gas source is a continuous positive airway pressure device.

7. 10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the gas source is a pressurized tank.

8. 10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the gas handling component further comprises: a fan component that actively moves the gas through the filtering component; a power component disposed substantially within the interior space and configured to provide power to the gas handling component.

9. 10. The device of claim 1, wherein the housing has a cap-receiving feature that is at least partially flexible to allow the cap to be attached to and detached from the housing.

10. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a supplemental opening in the housing.

11. 11. The device of claim 10, further comprising a desiccant that at least partially removes moisture within the interior space; The apparatus wherein at least a portion of the moisture is discharged through the auxiliary opening.

12. 10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the gas handling component further comprises: an aroma component including an aroma reservoir for reversibly retaining a fragrance material having a fragrance; The device wherein the fragrance is at least partially transferred from the fragrance material into the gas.

13. 10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the gas handling component further comprises: a medicinal component having a medicinal reservoir for reversibly retaining a medicinal agent; The device wherein the drug is at least partially transferred from the medicinal component into the gas.

14. 10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the filtration component is replaceable and comprises a High Efficiency Particulate Adsorption (HEPA) filter.

15. 10. The apparatus of claim 1, The device further comprising a monitoring component that indicates the possible presence of microorganisms in an environmental space accessible through said nasal plug component.

16. 1. A nasal gas purifying device comprising: a housing substantially enclosing an interior space; a gas treatment component disposed within the interior space for at least partially purifying and at least partially dehydrating gas delivered to the nasal passages, the gas treatment component comprising: a gas treatment component comprising a high efficiency particulate adsorption (HEPA) filter for removing impurities from the gas; a nose plug component operably attached to a nasal end of the housing and removably inserted into a nostril to form at least a partial seal with the nasal cavity such that the gas passing through the filtering component is directed into the nasal cavity through the nose plug component; a cap cannula removably attached to a cap end of the housing for receiving the gas supplied from a gas source via a supply line, the cap end being distal to the nose end; a supply line having a supply line diameter selectively attached to the cannula such that gas from the supply line is received through a gas receiving opening in the cannula; A nasal gas purification device wherein the supply line is received by a cap having a filtering diameter larger than the supply line diameter to increase the filtering efficiency of a High Efficiency Particulate Adsorption (HEPA) filter.

17. 17. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the gas handling component further comprises: a medicinal component having a medicinal reservoir for reversibly retaining a medicinal agent; The device wherein the drug is at least partially transferred from the medicinal component into the gas.

18. 17. The apparatus of claim 16, The device further comprising a monitoring component that indicates the possible presence of microorganisms in an environmental space accessible through said housing.

19. 17. The apparatus of claim 16, further comprising a supplemental opening in the housing.

20. 1. A nasal gas purifying device comprising: a housing substantially enclosing an interior space; a gas treatment component disposed within the interior space for at least partially purifying gas for delivery to the nasal cavity, the gas treatment component comprising: a gas treatment component comprising a filtration component for removing impurities from the gas; a nose plug component operably attached to the nasal end of the housing and removably inserted into the nostril to form at least a partial seal with the nasal cavity so that the gas that has passed through the filtering component is directed into the nasal cavity through the nose plug component.

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