Respiratory protective equipment

Abstract

This respiratory protective device allows various devices, such as loudspeakers, to be turned on and off at any desired time with simple operation. [Solution] The respiratory protective device 1 comprises a main body 10 equipped with a facepiece 11 that is worn to cover at least the nose and mouth of the human body, a detection means 41 that detects when the main body 10 is tapped, and a control means 39 that performs a preset switching control of a controlled object when a tap is detected by the detection means 41. Furthermore, the control means 39 is configured to perform a switching control of different controlled objects and / or to cause different actions of the controlled objects depending on the type of tap detected by the detection means 41.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a respiratory protective device suitable for a full-face mask, a half-face mask, etc. used for the purpose of dust prevention, gas prevention, etc.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, in a working environment where harmful dust and harmful gases floating in the air are present, such as at a welding site or a stone processing site, it is necessary to prevent workers from inhaling them and suffering health damage. Therefore, various dust masks and gas masks are used to protect such workers from health damage. These dust masks and gas masks cover the entire face of the wearer and the periphery of the nose and mouth with a solid body, and the peripheral edge of the solid body is adhered to the face for wearing.

[0003] On the other hand, these masks have a problem that at least the nose and mouth parts are covered with a solid body, and the voice of the wearer is trapped inside the solid body, making it difficult for people around to hear. Therefore, conventionally, a configuration in which an electric loudspeaker is attached to the mask main body to clearly transmit the voice of the wearer to the outside is known. Further, a configuration for detecting the breathing state of the wearer is provided in this configuration, and a configuration in which the loudspeaker is turned on when the wearer exhales is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, in the invention described in Patent Document 1, the on / off function of the loudspeaker is controlled based on whether the wearer is exhaling or not. Therefore, even if the loudspeaker's sound is unpleasant and the wearer wants to turn it off, they cannot. Furthermore, for example, in a so-called electric fan-equipped mask, there are cases where it is desirable to be able to easily turn the electric fan on and off. However, in the invention described in Patent Document 1, control is performed only based on whether the wearer is exhaling or not, so there is a problem that the on / off function of the electric fan and the loudspeaker cannot be used simultaneously. In addition, there may be a potential demand for mask users to be able to easily control various electric and electrical devices other than the loudspeaker. However, the invention described in Patent Document 1 is configured to control only the usage of the loudspeaker attached to the mask, so there is a problem that it is difficult to apply it to anything other than on / off control of the loudspeaker.

[0006] This invention has been made in view of the above problems, and aims to provide a respiratory protective device that allows various devices, such as loudspeakers, to be turned on and off at any desired time with simple operation. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] To achieve this objective, the present invention provides a respiratory protective device comprising: a main body having a facepiece that is worn to cover at least the nose and mouth of the human body; detection means for detecting when the main body is tapped; and control means for performing a preset switching control of a controlled object when a tap is detected by the detection means.

[0008] Furthermore, in addition to the configuration described above, the present invention is characterized in that the control means is configured to switch between different controlled objects and / or cause the controlled objects to perform different actions, depending on the tapping method detected by the detection means.

[0009] Furthermore, the present invention is characterized in that, in addition to the configuration described above, the detection means is a pressure detection means that detects pressure changes inside the facepiece caused by tapping.

[0010] Furthermore, the present invention is characterized in that, in addition to the configuration described above, the main body is provided with a valve that adjusts the inflow of air into and / or the outflow of air from inside the facepiece, the pressure sensing means has a position sensor that measures the distance between the valve body and the valve seat of the valve, and the pressure sensing means is configured to detect changes in the pressure inside the facepiece caused by tapping by measuring the movement of the valve body with the position sensor.

[0011] Furthermore, in addition to the configuration described above, the present invention is characterized in that the detection means is a vibration detection means for detecting the vibration state of the main body caused by tapping, in addition to the configuration described above.

[0012] Furthermore, the present invention is characterized in that, in addition to the configuration described above, the main body is provided with a valve that adjusts the inflow of air into and / or the outflow of air from inside the facepiece, the vibration detection means has a position sensor that measures the distance between the valve body and the valve seat of the valve, and the vibration state of the valve due to tapping is detected by measuring the movement of the valve body with the position sensor.

[0013] Furthermore, in addition to the configuration described above, the present invention is characterized in that the detection means is a respiratory protective device having a sound detection means for detecting changes in sound generated in the main body by tapping. [Effects of the Invention]

[0014] According to the present invention, when the detection means detects a tap on the main body, the control means is configured to activate a pre-set controlled object. Therefore, a specific action can be made to the respiratory protective device by the wearer simply tapping the main body.

[0015] Furthermore, according to the present invention, the control means is configured to activate different controlled objects or cause different actions to be performed on controlled objects depending on how the main body is tapped. Therefore, multiple different actions can be performed on the respiratory protective equipment by simple and easy operations.

[0016] Furthermore, according to the present invention, since the tap on the main body is configured to be detected by pressure changes using a pressure detection means, the tap can be reliably detected.

[0017] Furthermore, according to the present invention, the facepiece has a valve that regulates the inflow of air into and / or the outflow of air from inside the facepiece. By measuring the movement of the valve body as it swings in the opening and closing direction with a tap, using a position sensor that measures the distance between the valve body and the valve seat, pressure changes can be detected instead of using a pressure sensor. As a result, the equipment can be installed compactly, and pressure changes caused by tapping can be reliably detected.

[0018] Furthermore, according to the present invention, since the tap on the main body is configured to be detected by vibration detection means, the tap can be reliably detected.

[0019] Furthermore, according to the present invention, the facepiece has a valve that regulates the inflow of air into and / or the outflow of air from inside the facepiece. By measuring the distance between the valve body and the valve seat of this valve using a position sensor, the movement of the valve body as it swings in the opening and closing direction due to the tap can be measured, thereby detecting the vibration state instead of using a vibration sensor. As a result, the equipment can be installed compactly, and vibrations caused by the tap can be reliably detected.

[0020] Furthermore, according to the present invention, since the tap on the main body is detected by a change in sound generated in the main body by a sound detection means, the tap can be reliably detected. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0021] [Figure 1]It is a front view of a breathing protector with an electric fan according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] It is a perspective view of the breathing protector with an electric fan according to the embodiment, with the filter part removed. [Figure 3] It is a sectional view taken along line A-A of the breathing protector with an electric fan according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] It is an enlarged view of the exhaust valve part for detecting the internal pressure of the polyhedron of the breathing protector with an electric fan according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] It is a functional block diagram of the pressure detection and operation state switching of the breathing protector with an electric fan according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] It is a diagram schematically showing the detection state of the internal pressure of the polyhedron in the pressure detection part of the breathing protector with an electric fan according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] It is a diagram schematically showing the principle of control based on the detection state of the internal pressure of the polyhedron in the control part of the breathing protector with an electric fan according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] It is an enlarged schematic view near the intake valve of the breathing protector with an electric fan according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] It is a graph showing the waveform during tapping of the breathing protector with an electric fan according to the embodiment.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0022] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 7.

[0023] First, the configuration will be described. In this embodiment, as the breathing protector of the present invention, a so-called breathing protector with an electric fan will be described as an example.

[0024] As shown in Figure 1, the respiratory protective equipment 1A of this embodiment is a powered air purifying respirator (hereinafter, powered air purifying respirators will simply be referred to as respiratory protective equipment), and is used to protect the respiratory function of workers engaged in various tasks at workplaces and other work sites where harmful particulate matter (dust, fumes, mist, etc.) is suspended in the air. Specifically, it is a type of respiratory protective equipment that uses a powered fan to forcibly supply air into the facepiece, as defined as a "respiratory-assisted PAPR" in JIS T 8157:2009 (revised March 25, 2009). The respiratory protective equipment 1A of this embodiment is a so-called full-face mask that covers almost the entire face of the wearer, but it may also be a so-called half-face mask that covers only the nose and mouth of the wearer. Furthermore, the respiratory protective equipment 1A may be of a type used in conjunction with a hooded protective suit (for example, one that is part of a protective suit).

[0025] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the respiratory protective device 1A of this embodiment has a mask body (main body) 10, a facepiece 11, and an intake / exhaust unit 12.

[0026] The facepiece 11 is configured to cover substantially the entire face of the wearer. The front of the facepiece 11 is equipped with eyepieces 13 made of hard transparent resin or transparent tempered glass, positioned in front of the wearer's eyes. The peripheral edges of the eyepieces 13 are fitted into a frame-shaped frame 14 made of hard synthetic resin or the like. The frame 14 is provided with a face-contacting portion 15 made of soft resin, such as silicone rubber. This face-contacting portion 15 is shaped to conform to the contours of the wearer's face, with the upper part conforming to the forehead, the side parts to the cheeks, and the lower part conforming to the area from the mouth to the chin. As a result, when the facepiece 11 is fitted to the wearer's face, substantially the entire peripheral area of ​​the face-contacting portion 15 conforms to the peripheral area of ​​the wearer's face, creating a sealed state where the wearer's face is enclosed inside the facepiece 11.

[0027] Furthermore, a nose cup 16 made of a soft resin, such as silicone rubber, is provided on the inside of the facepiece 11, below the eyepiece 13. This nose cup 16 is formed in a roughly bowl shape that opens toward the wearer's face, and when worn on the wearer's face, it covers the wearer's nose and mouth, with its peripheral edges fitting snugly around the wearer's nose and mouth.

[0028] Furthermore, four attachment pieces 17 are provided protruding from the face-contacting portion 15 of the facepiece 11. Each of these attachment pieces 17 is to which a fastening string 18 made of an elastic material such as synthetic rubber is attached. By attaching these fastening strings 18 from the sides of the wearer's head to the back of their head, the mask body 10 is fitted to the wearer's face.

[0029] Furthermore, a pair of openings 19, 19 are formed on the upper side of the nose cup 16. An intake valve 20 is provided in each of the openings 19. As shown in Figure 3, the intake valve 20 has a valve body 22 made of an airtight material such as silicone rubber or natural rubber, which is disposed on a valve seat 21 near the opening 19 so as to be able to open and close. This intake valve 20 functions as a one-way valve that supplies air only from the outside to the inside of the nose cup 16.

[0030] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 2, a roughly cylindrical holder 23 made of a hard resin or the like is provided on the side of the facepiece 11. A loudspeaker 24, which is the "controlled object," is provided in this holder 23. This loudspeaker 24 is a device for transmitting the voice spoken by the wearer while wearing the respiratory protective device 1A to the outside, and is equipped with an electrical amplifier, a speaker, etc.

[0031] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 2, an intake and exhaust unit 12 is attached to the lower front side of the facepiece 11. This intake and exhaust unit 12 is detachably attached to the facepiece 11.

[0032] This intake and exhaust unit 12 comprises an intake and exhaust unit main body 26 and a filtration unit 25. As shown in Figure 2, the intake and exhaust unit main body 26 and the filtration unit 25 are configured to be detachable.

[0033] Of these, the filtration section 25 is formed in a roughly cylindrical shape from a hard resin or the like, and has an opening 27 on its front. The inside of the filtration section 25 is filled with a filter material (not shown), such as activated carbon. Air drawn in from the front of the opening 27 is filtered of particulate matter by this filter material (not shown) and flows out to the rear (into the inside of the intake / exhaust unit body 26).

[0034] Furthermore, the intake and exhaust unit body 26 is formed in a substantially cylindrical shape using a hard resin or the like. The intake and exhaust unit body 26 can be freely attached to and detached from the facepiece 11 by sliding the attachment / detachment bar 28 provided on the front surface of the facepiece 11.

[0035] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 2, an opening 29 is formed on the front of the intake and exhaust unit body 26. Air that has passed through the filtration unit 25 is drawn into the interior of the intake and exhaust unit body 26 through this opening 29.

[0036] Behind this opening 29, an electric fan 30a is provided, as shown in Figure 3. This electric fan 30a consists of a fan 30 and a motor 31, and the rotation of the fan 30 forces air from the intake / exhaust unit 12 into the inside of the facepiece 11. This reduces the intake resistance when the wearer inhales, making it easier to breathe, and also maintains positive pressure inside the facepiece, preventing dust and other particles from entering the inside of the facepiece 11 through the gap between the face contact area 15 and the wearer's face.

[0037] Furthermore, a battery 32 is located behind the electric fan 30a. This battery 32 is one of various types of storage batteries, such as a lead-acid battery or a lithium-ion battery, and supplies the power necessary for operating the loudspeaker 24 and driving the electric fan 30a.

[0038] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3, an intake passage 33 is formed above the battery 32, and an exhaust passage 34 is formed below the battery 32, extending from the opening 29 of the intake / exhaust unit body 26 through the location where the electric fan 30a is installed. The intake passage 33 forms a passage for air flowing into the facepiece 11 (due to the wearer's inhalation), and the exhaust passage 34 forms a passage for air discharged from the facepiece 11 (due to the wearer's exhalation).

[0039] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3, an exhaust valve 35 is provided in the exhaust passage 34. This exhaust valve 35 has a valve seat 36 formed from a part of the intake and exhaust unit body 26, and a ventilation valve body made of an airtight material such as silicone rubber or natural rubber, which is arranged to open and close. This exhaust valve 35 functions as a one-way valve that supplies air only from the inside to the outside of the intake and exhaust unit body 26.

[0040] In this embodiment, the valve body 37 is made of a material and shape such that the degree of opening and closing changes in approximately proportion to the strength of the wearer's exhalation. Specifically, for example, as shown in Figure 4, the peripheral edge of the valve body 37 constituting the exhaust valve 35 is provided with ribs 37a that are thicker than other parts. As a result, compared to when the valve body 37 is formed in a simple plate shape, a stronger force acts to return the valve body 37 from its curved state (when the exhaust valve 35 opens due to the air pressure during exhaust) back to its original flat state, making it possible to easily detect rapid pressure changes as a change in the shape of the valve body 37.

[0041] Furthermore, an exhaust port 38 is formed near the exhaust valve 35, on the lower side of the intake and exhaust unit body 26. Air expelled from the facepiece 11 (by the wearer's exhaled breath) is discharged from this exhaust port 38.

[0042] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3, a control unit 39, which serves as a "control means," is provided inside the intake and exhaust unit body 26, located near the exhaust valve 35. This control unit 39 is, for example, an integrated circuit, and processes signals input based on various commands and controls various connected devices (on / off control, etc.).

[0043] As shown in Figure 3, a photointerrupter 40 is provided inside the intake and exhaust unit body 26 near the exhaust valve 35. As shown in Figure 5, this photointerrupter 40, together with the signal detection unit 42, forms a pressure detection unit 41, which is a "pressure detection means".

[0044] The photointerrupter 40 is a position sensor that detects the degree of opening and closing of the valve body 37 by reflecting light emitted from the light-emitting part onto the surface of the valve body 37 and detecting the state of the reflected light with the light-receiving part.

[0045] As shown in Figure 5, the signal detection unit 42 forming the pressure detection unit 41 performs functions such as amplifying the signal detected by the photointerrupter 40 and quantizing the signal (for example, converting a signal sampled in minute time units as shown in Figure 6 into a smoothed signal as shown in Figure 7). The detection signal detected by the pressure detection unit 41 is then input to the control unit 39, which uses this input signal to control the on / off state of the loudspeaker 24 and the electric fan 30a.

[0046] Here, the procedure for on / off control of the loudspeaker 24 and other components in the respiratory protective device 1A of this embodiment will be described.

[0047] In the respiratory protective device 1A of this embodiment, the control unit 39 controls the on / off switching of the loudspeaker 24, etc., when the pressure detection unit 41 detects that the internal pressure of the facepiece 11 has changed in a predetermined pattern in the time direction and / or pressure direction, due to the wearer tapping a predetermined position on the main body 10. In other words, when the control unit 39 detects that the wearer has performed a predetermined, specific tap (knock) that serves as a signal, it controls the on / off switching of the loudspeaker 24, etc.

[0048] Here, when the pressure detection unit 41 detects that a predetermined change in the internal pressure of the facepiece 11 has occurred within a predetermined time period due to the wearer tapping the eyepiece 13, it controls the on / off switching of the loudspeaker 24, etc. In particular, if the wearer performs the tapping operation on the eyepiece 13 multiple times in a short period of time, this may be detected based on the opening and closing operation of the valve body 37.

[0049] For example, consider a case where the respiratory protective device 1A detects that the wearer has tapped the eyepiece 13 of the facepiece 11 twice in a predetermined short time (e.g., within 1 second), and the respiratory protective device 1A turns on the loudspeaker 24.

[0050] In this case, for example, as shown in Figure 7, the control unit 39 is configured to detect a specific time period (for example, a time period of less than 1 second) and an upper limit threshold 43 and a lower limit threshold 44 of the point output (a predetermined value that depends on the pressure inside the facepiece 11; for example, the voltage value of the signal output from the pressure detection unit 41).

[0051] Here, let's assume that a wearer wearing respiratory protective equipment 1A tapped the eyepiece 13 twice between 1 and 2 seconds, as shown in Figure 6. The control unit 39 defines a specific time period, in this case 1 second, as the specific time period 45 from the moment the point output exceeds the upper threshold 43 (approximately 3.3 seconds in Figure 7). Then, it starts detecting whether two taps occurred within this specific time period 45. Here, as shown in Figure 7, the upper limit exceeding zone 46, where the point output exceeded the upper threshold (approximately 3.3 to 3.5 seconds), followed by the lower limit exceeding zone 47, where it fell below the lower threshold 44 (approximately 3.5 to 3.7 seconds), and then the upper limit exceeding zone 48, where it exceeded the upper threshold 43 (approximately 3.8 seconds), are detected. Therefore, the control unit 39 determines that the wearer tapped twice and turns on the loudspeaker 24.

[0052] On the other hand, if, after the point output exceeds the upper limit area 46, the lower limit area 47 and the upper limit area 48 are not detected within a specific time period 45, the control unit 39 does not turn on the loudspeaker 24.

[0053] Furthermore, the control may be set to turn on the loudspeaker 24 if the upper limit exceeding area 46 or the lower limit exceeding area 47 is detected three or more times within a specific time period 45 (i.e., if the wearer taps three or more times), or the state of increase or decrease in point output in the upper limit exceeding area 46 or the lower limit exceeding area 47 (i.e., where the wearer tapped (for example, in addition to the eyepiece 13, it may be other parts such as the speaker or filter)) may be included as a detection target.Here, it is known that the pressure change is most pronounced when the eyepiece 13 is tapped, compared to the eyepiece 13, speaker, and filter, so it is preferable to base the detection on tapping the eyepiece 13.

[0054] To elaborate further, for example, in the intake valve 20, as described above, the valve body 22 can open and close relative to the valve seat 21. When the internal pressure increases, the valve body 22 is pushed by the pressure and opens wide, and when the internal pressure decreases, the pressure on the valve body 22 weakens and the opening becomes smaller. This relationship is controlled by feedback control, where the idling airflow (opening force) and the closing force of the valve body 22 are balanced, resulting in the valve 20 being in a slightly open state, as shown in Figure 8. In this state, the valve body 22 is easily moved by a slight impact (as if resting on a soft cushion), and the valve body 22 moves with even slight vibrations or pressure changes. This movement is then detected by a position sensor (photosensor, photointerrupter) 40A. This allows for the measurement of pressure changes in the same way as measuring pressure changes with a pressure sensor.

[0055] The results are shown in the graph in Figure 9. The graph in Figure 9 shows (1) the change in the position sensor 40A due to the wearer's specific breathing as described in Patent No. 6274912, (2) the change in the position sensor 40A when the front of the filter is tapped, and (3) the change in the position sensor 40A when the front of the eyepiece 13 is tapped. At this time, as with Figures 6 and 7 described above, the number of times the value between the upper threshold a and the lower threshold b is exceeded is detected, and for example, it is detected that the tap has been performed 3 times.

[0056] Furthermore, tapping eyepiece 13 in (3) produces the sharpest and highest output graph, making it the easiest tap point to detect. While measurement is also possible by tapping the filter in (2), (3) is sharper, and from the perspective of avoiding tapping the filter, tapping eyepiece 13 is the most effective. Additionally, while detection is possible with breathing in (1), it can be difficult to significantly change the internal pressure in a short time using breathing alone. Therefore, tapping in (2) and (3), which produces a more sensitive waveform, allows for quicker, easier, and more accurate pressure changes, making detection easier.

[0057] Furthermore, it is desirable that the tap used by the wearer to control the on / off state of the loudspeaker 24, etc., be different from a normal tap (for example, when the eyepiece 13 is touched only once) in order to prevent malfunctions of the loudspeaker 24, etc.

[0058] Furthermore, by pre-programming the control unit 39 to recognize multiple tapping methods, it is possible to control the operation of multiple controlled objects, control multiple operating states of controlled objects, or control multiple operating states of multiple controlled objects. In addition, by configuring the system to detect changes in the internal pressure inside the facet 11 over time, it is possible to control a wider variety of controlled objects and a wider variety of operating states. For example, by detecting the number of times the point output exceeds the upper threshold 43 or lower threshold 44 within a predetermined time period (e.g., within 1 second), and the time periods during which the threshold is exceeded (e.g., longer time periods of 0.25 seconds or more and shorter time periods of less than 0.25 seconds), the control unit 39 can detect the number of times the point output exceeds the upper threshold 43 or lower threshold 44 within a predetermined time period (e.g., within 1 second), "Two taps in a short period of time = turning on the loudspeaker 24" "One tap during a long period + one tap during a short period = Off control of the 24th loudspeaker" "Two taps over a long period of time = On-control of electric fan 30a" "One short tap + one long tap = Off control of the electric fan 30A" It can also be configured in this way. This allows the user to control multiple operations of multiple devices simply by changing the tap pattern.

[0059] As described above, according to the respiratory protective device 1 of this embodiment, when the detection means 41 detects a tap on the main body 10, the control means 39 is configured to activate a preset controlled object. Therefore, a specific action can be made to the respiratory protective device 1 by the wearer simply and easily tapping the main body 10.

[0060] Furthermore, according to the respiratory protective device 1 of this embodiment, the control means 39 is configured to activate different controlled objects or cause the controlled objects to perform different actions depending on how the main body 10 is tapped. Therefore, multiple different actions can be performed on the respiratory protective device 1 by simple and easy operations.

[0061] Furthermore, according to the respiratory protective device 1 of this embodiment, the tap on the main body 10 is configured to be detected by the pressure change detected by the pressure detection unit 41, so the tap can be reliably detected.

[0062] Furthermore, according to the respiratory protective device 1 of this embodiment, there is a valve 35 that adjusts the inflow of air into the facepiece 11 and / or the outflow of air from the facepiece 11 to the outside, and a photointerrupter 40 of the pressure sensing unit 41 is provided here, so that the equipment can be installed compactly and pressure changes caused by tapping can be reliably detected.

[0063] Furthermore, in the respiratory protective device 1A of this embodiment, when the pressure detection unit 41 detects that the internal pressure inside the facepiece 11 has changed in a predetermined pattern in the time direction or pressure direction, the control unit 39 controls the switching of the operating state of the loudspeaker 24, etc., so that the wearer can switch the operation of the loudspeaker 24, etc. by tapping in a predetermined pattern. In other words, the wearer can control one or more operating states of one or more controlled objects with simple operation while wearing the mask body 10 on their face. This makes it easy to turn on and off various devices such as the loudspeaker 24 at any desired timing.

[0064] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the control unit 39 detects that a predetermined change in internal pressure has occurred multiple times within a predetermined time period, and controls the on / off switching of the loudspeaker 24, etc., so that the user can switch the operation of the loudspeaker 24, etc. by tapping multiple times in a predetermined pattern within a short period of time. Also, by changing the number of taps and the interval between them, multiple controlled objects (for example, the loudspeaker 24 and the electric fan 30a) or multiple operating states (for example, on / off control of the loudspeaker 24 and the electric fan 30a) can be switched easily and reliably by the user's taps. Depending on the device, control may be provided for stepwise or stepless adjustment from low to high, low to high, etc., in addition to on / off. Furthermore, switching control other than on / off, such as ○○ mode, ×× mode, etc., may also be provided.

[0065] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the control unit 39 switches the operating state of the loudspeaker 24, etc., when the pressure detection unit 41 detects a change in the internal pressure where it becomes higher than the upper threshold 43 and then lower than the lower threshold 44, or where it becomes lower than the lower threshold 44 and then higher than the upper threshold 43. In other words, the operating state of the loudspeaker 24, etc., is switched only when the internal pressure of the facepiece 11 changes significantly due to the wearer's tap. This ensures that the switching control of the loudspeaker 24, etc., by the wearer's tap can be reliably performed while preventing erroneous operation.

[0066] Furthermore, by configuring the pressure detection unit 41 to include a photointerrupter 40 that detects the open / closed state of the valve body 37 of the exhaust valve 35, the pressure detection unit 41 can be configured to perform high-precision pressure detection with a long lifespan and low cost. In particular, by configuring the valve body 37 with a shape and material that faithfully reflects the changes in internal pressure inside the facepiece 11, it becomes possible to perform pressure detection with even higher precision.

[0067] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the respiratory protective device 1A, which seals at least the wearer's nose and mouth, allows the wearer to keep the loudspeaker 24 in the ON state for a desired period of time, preventing wasted power and enabling the wearer to communicate smoothly with other workers, etc., through conversation.

[0068] In this embodiment, the pressure detection unit 41 is configured to detect the open / closed state of the valve body 37 using a photointerrupter 40. However, the configuration is not limited to this, and various other configurations can be used for the pressure detection unit 41. Specifically, for example, a pressure sensor that outputs changes in internal pressure as a voltage value, using a pressure-sensitive conductor or the like, may be provided inside the facepiece 11.

[0069] Furthermore, although the above embodiment used the respiratory protective device 1A according to the present invention in a so-called "respiratory-assisted PAPR," the invention is not limited to this and may also be applied to a "standard PAPR." Moreover, the present invention can also be applied to respiratory protective devices that do not have an electric fan in their configuration, such as so-called "dust masks" or "gas masks," and that are equipped with electrical devices such as loudspeakers or various controlled objects.

[0070] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the objects controlled by the control unit 39 were limited to only the loudspeaker 24 and the electric fan 30a. However, the present invention can be applied to the control of various other objects. Specifically, the following [Application Example 1] to [Application Example 6] are possible.

[0071] [Application Example 1] For example, when using the respiratory protective device 1A of the above embodiment in firefighting and rescue operations at a fire scene, the following application examples can be considered: [1-1] to [1-5]. [1-1] When a camera is attached to the respiratory protective device 1A and video is transmitted or recorded in real time during activity, the camera is operated by a specific tap by the wearer. [1-2] When the wearer feels that their own voice is being amplified and is too loud, they can turn the loudspeaker 24 on or off by tapping a specific button. [1-3] Attach the radio to the respiratory protective equipment 1A. The wearer will turn the radio on and off by tapping a specific button when speaking with another person. [1-4] When listening for cries for help, the wearer turns off the electric fan 30a using a specific tap. [1-5] The respiratory protective equipment 1A is equipped with an alarm device such as a siren or flashing light. If the wearer is injured in a secondary attack and becomes unable to move, the alarm device is operated by tapping a specific button on the device.

[0072] [Application Example 2] For example, when using the respiratory protective equipment 1A of the above embodiment in nuclear power plant decommissioning work or rubble disposal work, the following application examples can be considered [2-1]. [2-1] Respiratory protective equipment 1A is used together with the protective suit, and a ventilation device is installed in the protective suit. When heat builds up inside the protective suit and it becomes hot, the wearer can turn on the ventilation device of the cooling suit or adjust the airflow using a specific tap.

[0073] [Application Example 3] For example, when the respiratory protective equipment 1A of the above embodiment is used in combat operations of the Self-Defense Forces, the following application examples can be considered: [3-1] [3-2]. [3-1] When the wearer wants to conceal their presence, they can turn off the electric fan 30a by tapping a specific button. [3-2] When a camera is attached to the respiratory protective device 1A and video is transmitted or recorded in real time during activity, the camera is operated by a specific tap by the wearer.

[0074] [Application Example 4] For example, when switching between tasks with different work intensities at various work sites, the following application examples of the respiratory protective device 1A of the above embodiment can be considered, as shown in [4-1] to [4-5] below. [4-1] Use respiratory protective equipment 1A together with protective clothing, etc., and install a ventilation device on the protective clothing, etc. When the work intensity changes, the ventilation mode is switched by tapping a specific button on the wearer. [4-2] The respiratory protective equipment 1A is equipped with a control device for a gas detector and a dust meter. When it is necessary to check the exposure concentration of gases and dust in the work environment, the gas detector and dust meter are operated by the wearer using a specific tap. [4-3] The respiratory protective device 1A is equipped with a control device for the air conditioning system at the work site. When the work site is hot or cold, the wearer can operate the air conditioning system by tapping a specific button. [4-4] The respiratory protective device 1A is equipped with a control device for the breakthrough detection device. When it is necessary to check the working time, the wearer operates the breakthrough detection device by tapping a specific button. [4-5] The respiratory protective device 1A is equipped with an alarm device that emits an alarm sound. When the alarm sound is too loud, the wearer can adjust the volume of the alarm sound by tapping a specific button.

[0075] [Application Example 5] For example, if you want to use respiratory protective equipment 1A from a safety management perspective at various work sites, the following application examples can be considered [5-1]. [5-1] The respiratory protective device 1A is equipped with a GPS-based position detection device, an alarm device, a heart rate monitoring device control device, etc. If the wearer becomes unable to move during work, the respiratory protective device 1A transmits location information via GPS, notifies the administrator of the abnormality via the alarm device, and transmits information from the heart rate monitoring device upon the wearer's specific tap.

[0076] [Application Example 6] Other possible applications include those listed below in [6-1] to [6-4]. [6-1] Controls the on / off function of the translation device attached to the respiratory protective equipment 1A. [6-2] Controls the illumination of the headlight located on the forehead portion of the respiratory protective device 1A. [6-3] Controls the operation and stopping of the wiper provided on the eyepiece 13 of the respiratory protective device 1A. [6-4] Forced inhalation into the mask is initiated from the air cylinder held by the wearer of respiratory protective equipment 1A.

[0077] Furthermore, the detection means is not limited to the pressure detection means 41, which is composed of a pressure sensor that detects pressure changes inside the facepiece 11 as described above; other detection means may also be used.

[0078] For example, the detection means may consist of a vibration sensor that detects the vibration state of the mask body (main body) 10 caused by tapping. The detection of the vibration state of the mask body 10 caused by tapping by the vibration detection means may use a proprietary vibration sensor, but a detection means such as a photointerrupter that detects the open / closed state of the intake valve 20 and exhaust valve 35 may also be configured to detect vibrations caused by tapping of the mask body 10, as shown in Figure 8 above. In this case, the vibration state of the mask body 10 caused by tapping is set in advance, and when the position state is different from the normal intake and exhaust positions, it is determined whether it is a vibration state caused by tapping, and if it is a tap, the control is performed to switch the controlled object according to that tap. In detail, it is the same as the embodiment described above, and after measuring the distance, the vibration state is detected instead of the pressure change.

[0079] Thus, if the taps of the main body 10 are configured to be detected by vibration detection means, the taps can be reliably detected, and the switching control of the controlled object can be performed accordingly.

[0080] Furthermore, if the facepiece 11 has a valve that regulates the inflow of air into and / or the outflow of air from inside the facepiece 11, and the vibration detection means is configured to detect the vibration of the valve caused by tapping, then the sensors can be used in common to compactly integrate and install the equipment, and vibrations caused by tapping can be reliably detected.

[0081] To elaborate further, for example, in the intake valve 20, as described above, the valve body 22 can open and close relative to the valve seat 21. When the internal pressure increases, the valve body 22 is pushed by the pressure and opens wide, and when the internal pressure decreases, the pressure on the valve body 22 weakens and the opening becomes smaller. Through feedback control, the idling airflow (opening force) and the closing force of the valve body 22 are balanced, resulting in the valve 20 being in a slightly open state, as shown in Figure 8. In this state, the valve body 22 is easily moved by a slight impact (as if resting on a soft cushion), and the valve body 22 moves with even slight vibrations or pressure changes. This movement is then detected by a position sensor (photosensor, photointerrupter) 40A. This allows the vibration state to be measured in the same way as measuring the vibration state with a vibration sensor.

[0082] The results are shown in the graph in Figure 9. The graph in Figure 9 shows (1) the change in the position sensor 40A due to the wearer's specific breathing as described in Patent No. 6274912, (2) the change in the position sensor 40A when the front of the filter is tapped, and (3) the change in the position sensor 40A when the front of the eyepiece 13 is tapped. At this time, as with Figures 6 and 7 described above, the number of times the value between the upper threshold a and the lower threshold b is exceeded is detected, and for example, it is detected that the tap has been performed 3 times.

[0083] Furthermore, tapping eyepiece 13 in (3) produces the sharpest and highest output graph, making it the easiest tap point to detect. While measurement is also possible by tapping the filter in (2), (3) is sharper, and from the perspective of avoiding tapping the filter, tapping eyepiece 13 is the most effective. Additionally, while detection is possible with breathing in (1), it can be difficult to significantly change the internal pressure in a short time using breathing alone. Therefore, tapping in (2) and (3), which produces a more sensitive waveform, allows for quicker, easier, and more accurate pressure changes, making detection easier.

[0084] Furthermore, the detection means may include a sound detection means comprising a sound sensor, such as a microphone, that detects changes in sound produced in the mask body (body part) 10 by tapping. Sound detection of tapping of the mask body by the sound detection means is performed using a predetermined microphone, and the sound of the tap is detected by the microphone to determine whether or not it is a tap.

[0085] In more detail, first, the system detects differences in sound quality based on factors such as the distance and material of the tapped location. It also detects differences in volume and sound quality based on the rhythm, intensity, and interval of the taps. Preferably, these factors are combined and compared with pre-stored sound types to identify the type of tap, determining what kind of operation the tap sound controls, and then switching the control accordingly.

[0086] Thus, if the tap on the main unit 10 is configured to be detected by a change in sound using a sound detection means, the tap can be reliably detected, and the switching control of the controlled object can be performed accordingly.

[0087] It goes without saying that the above embodiments are illustrative examples of the present invention and do not mean that the present invention is limited to the above embodiments.

[0088] For example, in the above embodiment, the respiratory protective device of the present invention was described using a respiratory protective device with a powered fan, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the configuration of the present invention may also be applied to respiratory protective devices without a powered fan. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0089] 1A... Respiratory protective equipment (Powered air-purifying respirators) 10. Mask body (main body) 11-sided polyhedron 13. Eyepiece 24. Loudspeaker (controlled object) 30a... Electric fan 20. Intake valve 21... Valve seat 22... Valve body 35. Exhaust valve 37. Valve body 39. Control Unit (Control Means) 40,40A...Photo interrupter (pressure detection means) 41. Pressure detection unit (pressure detection means, detection means) 43, a··· Upper threshold 44, b ··· Lower threshold

Claims

1. A main body comprising a facepiece that is worn to cover at least the nose and mouth of the human body, A detection means for detecting when the main body is tapped, A respiratory protective device characterized by comprising a control means that performs a pre-set switching control of a controlled object when a tap is detected by the detection means.

2. The respiratory protective device according to claim 1, characterized in that the control means is configured to perform switching control of different controlled objects and / or cause the controlled objects to perform different actions according to the way of tapping detected by the detection means.

3. The respiratory protective device according to claims 1 to 2, characterized in that the detection means has a pressure detection means for detecting a change in pressure inside the facepiece caused by tapping.

4. The main body is provided with a valve that regulates the inflow of air into the facepiece and / or the outflow of air from the facepiece. The respiratory protective device according to claim 3, characterized in that the pressure sensing means has a position sensor for measuring the distance between the valve body and the valve seat of the valve, and is configured to detect changes in the pressure inside the facepiece caused by tapping by measuring the movement of the valve body with the position sensor.

5. The respiratory protective device according to claims 1 to 2, characterized in that the detection means has vibration detection means for detecting the vibration state of the main body due to tapping.

6. The main body is provided with a valve that regulates the inflow of air into the facepiece and / or the outflow of air from the facepiece. The respiratory protective device according to claim 5, characterized in that the vibration detection means has a position sensor for measuring the distance between the valve body and the valve seat of the valve, and is configured to detect the vibration state of the valve caused by tapping by measuring the movement of the valve body with the position sensor.

7. The respiratory protective device according to claims 1 to 2, characterized in that the detection means has a sound detection means for detecting a change in sound generated in the main body by tapping.

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