Personal ventilation device and method for delivering hygienic air to a personal breathing space

Abstract

To provide a system and a method, capable of preventing, minimizing, or otherwise reducing the spread of pathogens without a risk of damaging passengers, among passengers of transporters during traveling such as among passengers inside a cabin of an aircraft in flight.SOLUTION: A personal ventilation device includes a first duct portion 110 and a second duct portion held by a support structure 108 configured so as to be attached to a wearer of the personal ventilation device. The ventilation device also includes a first nozzle 112 attached to the first duct portion, and a second nozzle attached to the second duct portion. The first and second nozzles are configured so as to be arranged adjacent to a side opposite to the wearer's face. The first nozzle guides an air flow from the first duct portion so as to pass the wearer's face, and forms a control space for a breathing space of the wearer.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Embodiments of the subject disclosure relate generally to personal, wearable ventilation devices and methods for delivering hygienic air to a person's breathing space. [Background technology]

[0002] Vehicles such as commercial aircraft are used to transport passengers between various locations. Many commercial vehicles, such as aircraft, have high efficiency (HEPA) filters in their air conditioning systems that can trap germs and pathogens. The HEPA filters accommodate and sanitize the air leaving or entering the cabin. HEPA filters and frequent cleaning of the cabin between flights are some of the ways to protect the health of passengers and airline crew.

[0003] Additionally, some passengers may prefer to wear masks to reduce the risk of spreading pathogens within the interior cabin of a vehicle, in indoor spaces within a building, and / or in crowded outdoor spaces. However, wearing a mask for extended periods of time, such as during a long flight, may be uncomfortable for some passengers and may make conversation difficult. Summary of the Invention

[0004] A need exists for systems and methods that prevent, minimize, or otherwise reduce the spread of pathogens between passengers in a vehicle during travel, such as between passengers in the interior cabin of an aircraft on a flight, without risking harm to the passengers.

[0005] With this need in mind, certain embodiments of the subject disclosure provide a personal ventilation device including a first duct portion and a second duct portion, both carried by a support structure configured to be attached to a wearer of the personal ventilation device. The personal ventilation device also includes a first nozzle attached to the first duct portion and a second nozzle attached to the second duct portion. The first and second nozzles are configured to be positioned adjacent opposite sides of the wearer's face, and the first nozzle directs airflow from the first duct portion past the wearer's face to form a controlled volume for the wearer's breathing space. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1] 1 shows a schematic diagram of an air distribution system according to one embodiment of the subject disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a ventilation device being worn by a person. [Figure 3] 1 shows a front view of a ventilation device according to another embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 shows a top-down view of the ventilation device shown in FIG. 3. [Figure 5] 1 is a top-down cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of a ventilation device showing the internal components. FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a top-down cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of a ventilation device showing the internal components. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a top-down cross-sectional view of a third embodiment of a ventilator showing the internal components. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a top-down cross-sectional view of a fourth embodiment of a ventilator showing the internal components. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a top-down cross-sectional view of a ventilation device showing the internal components according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a top-down cross-sectional view of a ventilator showing the internal components according to a sixth embodiment. [Figure 11]FIG. 10 is a top-down cross-sectional view of a seventh embodiment of a ventilator showing the internal components. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a side view of another embodiment of a ventilation device being worn by a person. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the ventilation device shown in FIG. 12. [Figure 14] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a person wearing a vest incorporating a ventilation system, according to one embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a ventilation device being worn by a person. [Figure 16A] 16 shows the fan module of the ventilator shown in FIG. 15 attached to a half mask. [Figure 16B] 16 shows the fan module of the ventilator shown in FIG. 15 attached to a full mask. [Figure 17A] FIG. 10 is a front view of another embodiment of a ventilation device including an array of at least three fan modules. [Figure 17B] FIG. 17B is a top-down view of the ventilation device shown in FIG. 17A. [Figure 18] 1 shows a flow diagram of a method for delivering satelite air to a personal breathing space, according to one embodiment of the subject disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of certain embodiments, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. As used herein, the use of the singular form "a" or "an" preceding an element or step should be understood as not necessarily excluding a plurality of elements or steps. Furthermore, references to "one embodiment" are not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that incorporate features described herein. Furthermore, embodiments "comprising" or "having" one or more elements having certain conditions may include additional elements that do not have those conditions, unless expressly stated otherwise.

[0008] Certain embodiments of the subject disclosure provide a personal ventilation device for reducing the spread of contaminants and / or pathogens (e.g., bacterial pathogens and / or viral pathogens) via airborne aerosols. For example, the personal ventilation device is a wearable device that attaches to the wearer's head, neck, shoulders, chest, and / or upper back. The personal ventilation device operates by directing airflow past the wearer's face in close proximity to the wearer's nose and mouth, creating a controlled space for the wearer's personal breathing space. For example, the personal ventilation device may create an air "displacement" effect as air is directed to and / or past the wearer's lower face. The air may be sanitized air that has been passed through filters, UV light sources, and / or the like to disinfect and / or treat the air before passing over the wearer's lower face. The personal ventilation device may essentially function as an open powered air-purifying respirator (PAPR) used to protect the wearer against contaminated air without covering the wearer's full face and / or head, as a typical PAPR does. The airflow in the controlled space can block aerosols from traveling toward the wearer's breathing space, which is the space directly in front of the wearer's nose and mouth where air is inhaled. Aerosols are entrained in the airflow and are therefore blocked and / or forced to avoid the breathing space, so that the blocked aerosols are not inhaled or ingested by the wearer.

[0009] Personal ventilation systems can be particularly useful in preventing the direct spread of pathogens from one person to another before the air can be filtered through the cabin air conditioning system. For example, a controlled space personal ventilation system can protect the wearer from aerosols emitted by people with whom the wearer is conversing, as well as from aerosols emitted by nearby people who sneeze or cough.

[0010] In addition to blocking external pathogens and contaminants, the ventilation device may provide sanitized air to the breathing space for inhalation by the wearer. For example, the ventilation device may include one or more air sanitizing components, such as a filter (e.g., a HEPA filter), a UV light source, and / or the like, to provide sanitized or cleaned air to the breathing space.

[0011] According to one or more embodiments, a personal ventilation device may be mobile. For example, the wearer may be unrestrained while wearing the ventilation device, such that the wearer can walk or otherwise move about unhindered. Furthermore, the ventilation device may even be self-contained, such that all components necessary to operate the device to provide a controlled air space are integrated onto the device without the need to connect to external components such as an air source and power source. For example, a self-contained ventilation device allows the wearer to walk around (e.g., move around) while the ventilation device is in an "on" operating state, continuously creating a controlled air space and protecting the wearer's breathing space.

[0012] Ventilation devices according to embodiments described herein may be worn in vehicles, buildings, and outdoors. At least one advantageous application of the ventilation device is within commercial transportation during travel, such as the interior cabin of an aircraft, trains, buses, ferries, and other vessels, where the wearer may be placed in relatively close proximity to other people for extended periods of time. Another advantageous application may be within theaters, concert halls, and other crowded indoor environments. In at least one embodiment, the ventilation device does not include a full mask or hood and does not interfere with a wearer wearing a personal mask that also covers the nose and mouth. For example, a wearer can wear both a mask and a ventilation device without added discomfort. Furthermore, the ventilation device in at least one embodiment may be configured to house and couple to a mask to provide an integrated mask-ventilation assembly.

[0013] FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of an air distribution system 100 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The air distribution system 100 includes a personal ventilation device 102 (also referred to herein as ventilation device 102), an air source 104, and an external power source 106. The ventilation device 102 is a wearable article that can be attached to a person's head, neck, shoulders, chest, and / or back. The ventilation device 102 includes several components, as shown in FIG. 1 and described below. In at least one embodiment, the ventilation device 102 does not have all of the components shown in FIG. 1.

[0014] The ventilation device 102 includes a support structure 108, which is a base or leg that holds at least some of the other components in place. The support structure 108 may interact with the wearer's body. In various embodiments, the support structure 108 may be a travel pillow (or neck pillow), a scarf, a vest, a jacket, a backpack, a hat, a helmet, or the like. In other embodiments, the support structure 108 may be a frame or leg configured to attach to the wearer alone or in combination with another item, such as a travel pillow, a scarf, a vest, a jacket, a backpack, a hat, or a helmet. For example, the support structure 108 may be a modular leg designed to be stored in or on an item or element worn by the wearer. In a non-limiting example, a travel pillow may represent a modular element configured to removably connect to the leg, such as by clipping to the leg. It should be noted that the personal ventilation device 102 may be operable with or without associated articles or elements worn by the wearer, offering broad applicability to both crew and passengers of commercial vehicles, as well as those outside of mass transit environments.

[0015] The ventilation system 102 also includes at least one duct 110, such as a duct assembly, that defines a passageway for directing airflow through the ventilation system 102. The one or more ducts 110 may be tubes or pipes. The one or more ducts 110 may be formed from a lightweight material, such as a thermoplastic. The one or more ducts 110 are secured to the support structure 108 and held in place. Alternatively, the legs or frame of the support structure 108 may be defined, in whole or at least in part, by the ducts 110. The one or more ducts 110 receive air from an air source 104. In one embodiment, the air source 104 is a separate source of conditioned air, such as an aircraft environmental control system, air conditioning system, or the like. The separate source may provide air to the one or more ducts 110 via one or more hoses 105 that mechanically connect to the ventilation system 102. In other embodiments, the air source 104 may be the ambient environment, such as the air within the cabin of a vehicle occupied by the wearer, and the ambient air may be supplied to the ventilation device 102 via one or more intake ports.

[0016] The ventilation device 102 also includes at least one nozzle 112 coupled to the at least one duct 110. One or more nozzles 112 may be coupled to each end of the one or more ducts 110. The one or more nozzles 112 may define one or more apertures, slots, or other openings that allow airflow to exit the one or more ducts 110 and / or enter the one or more ducts 110. The ventilation device 102 is positioned such that, when worn, the at least one nozzle 112 is positioned proximate to the wearer's face. For example, the nozzle 112 may be within 6 inches of the wearer's chin (e.g., within 5 inches, or even within 4 inches of the chin). In one embodiment, the nozzle 112 is offset from the wearer's lateral centerline, or midsagittal plane, and is oriented to direct the airflow at least partially past the wearer's face. For example, air emitted from the nozzle 112 may flow across the midsagittal plane. Optionally, the nozzles 112 may be oriented to direct the airflow in front of the wearer's face so that only a small portion (if any) of the airflow impinges on the wearer's skin. For example, the nozzles 112 may direct the majority of the airflow into the breathing space a few inches in front of the wearer's nose and mouth (e.g., 2 to 10 inches, or more specifically, 3 to 6 inches in front). The airflow forms a controlled space to block the transport of contaminants and pathogens across the controlled space. The controlled space represents the region of space occupied by a continuous flow of sanitized (e.g., filtered, purified, UV-irradiated) air emitted from the personal ventilation device 102.

[0017] In one or more embodiments, the ventilation system 102 includes at least one filter 114. The one or more filters 114 extend into the air passageway defined by the one or more ducts 110 to filter the air directed through the one or more ducts 110. The one or more filters 114 may be disposed within the one or more ducts 110 or connected in series with the one or more ducts 110. The one or more filters 114 may be HEPA filters or other filtration media to capture pathogens and contaminants from the air.

[0018] The ventilation device 102 may also include at least one fan 116 that is powered to drive or otherwise force air through one or more ducts 110. For example, the fan 116 may be fixed to the duct 110 and configured at the end of the duct 110 to force airflow through the duct 110 and out a nozzle 112 to form a controlled volume. The fan 116 forces the airflow through the rotation of blades or vanes. The rotation is powered by a power source, such as an electrical energy storage device (EESD) 118 or an external power source 106. The EESD 118 is integrated into the ventilation device 102 and attached to the support structure 108. The EESD 118 may include a battery pack, a capacitor, or the like, that can store electrical energy and release energy to selectively power one or more fans 116. The external power source 106 is not part of the ventilator 102 and may include a vehicle electrical system, a building electrical system, a stand-alone battery pack, or the like. The ventilator 102 may be adjustable to be powered by the external power source 106 by including a connector 120 electrically connected to the one or more fans 116 via a power cable 122. The connector 120 is configured to removably connect to a connector 124 associated with the external power source 106 (e.g., a plug on a power cord that provides electrical current to selectively power the one or more fans 116 and any other electrical components of the ventilator 102).

[0019] The ventilation device 102 may include additional components not shown in FIG. 1, such as a UV light source for emitting UV light into the air flow path to neutralize pathogens and / or contaminants, input / output devices such as an on / off switch, and / or a display, and the like.

[0020] 2 through 17B and the associated description depict various embodiments of the personal wearable ventilation device 102 shown in FIG.

[0021] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a ventilation device 102 according to one embodiment being worn by a person. The ventilation device 102 of the illustrated embodiment includes a travel pillow 150 (e.g., a neck pillow). The travel pillow 150 may define the support structure 108 shown in FIG. 1. Alternatively, the travel pillow 150 may surround or be connected to a frame or legs defining the support structure 108. The travel pillow 150 may have a form factor similar to known travel pillows that wrap around the neck of the wearer. For example, the shape of the pillow 150 may resemble a "U" or a horseshoe. The travel pillow 150 may be filled with a plush, soft, compressible filler material, such as foam. Other components of the ventilation device 102 may be disposed within the interior space of the pillow 150 or attached to an outer casing 152 of the pillow 150. For example, the one or more ducts 110 may be at least mostly within the interior space and may be padded with filler material to conceal the presence of the one or more ducts 110. Optionally, one or more filters 114 , one or more fans 116 , connector 120 , and / or EESD 118 , if present, may also be at least partially concealed within travel pillow 150 .

[0022] In the illustrated embodiment, the ventilation device 102 includes a first nozzle 154 and a second nozzle 156, which represent the nozzle(s) 112 shown in FIG. 1 . The two nozzles 154, 156 are disposed along and protrude beyond a top surface 158 of the outer case 152. The top surface 158 is the surface facing the top of the wearer's head, depending on how the wearer orients the pillow 150. The nozzles 154, 156 are also located adjacent to a front 160 of the pillow 150. In the illustrated embodiment, the front 160 is the surface facing when the wearer is looking straight ahead, and the front 160 has an access passage 162. The access passage 162 allows the diameter of the pillow 150 to be modified. The nozzles 154, 156 are disposed on opposite sides of the access passage 162 and positioned adjacent to opposite sides of the wearer's face. For example, the nozzles 154, 156 are located on opposite sides of the wearer's midsagittal plane. The first nozzle 154 is positioned proximate the left side of the face and the second nozzle 156 is proximate the right side of the face. The nozzles 154, 156 may both be positioned to be within a particular designated proximity of the wearer's chin (e.g., within 10 inches, within 8 inches, within 6 inches, or within 4 inches of the chin).

[0023] Each of the nozzles 154, 156 defines one or more openings therethrough. In the illustrated embodiment, both nozzles 154, 156 define elongated slots 164 to form a control space 166. By forcing airflow through the elongated, narrow slots 164, the airflow emitted from the nozzles 154, 156 can result in the control space 166 having a relatively flat shape, similar to a conventional shield (e.g., an air shield). For example, two of the three dimensions of the control space 166 can be significantly larger (e.g., three times, five times, ten times, or the like) than the third dimension. The third dimension can represent the depth of the shield 166, and the first and second dimensions can represent the length and width of the shield 166, perpendicular to the depth dimension. Although not shown in FIG. 2 , the nozzles 154, 156 connect to one or more ducts 110 that are completely, or at least mostly, concealed within the pillow 150.

[0024] FIG. 3 shows a front view of another embodiment of the ventilation device 102. FIG. 4 shows a top-down view of the ventilation device 102 shown in FIG. 3. The ventilation device 102 in FIGS. 3 and 4 includes the travel pillow 150 shown in FIG. 2, but the nozzles 154, 156 are slightly different from the nozzles 154, 156 in FIG. 2. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the first nozzle 154 is located on the first end effector 180 and the second nozzle 156 is located on the second end effector 182. The end effectors 180, 182 protrude from the pillow 150 at or adjacent to the front 160 on different sides of the access passage 162. The nozzles 154, 156 are located at the distal ends of the end effectors 180, 182. Optionally, the end effectors 180, 182 may be flexible and / or adjustable to allow repositioning of the nozzles 154, 156 to control the direction of the airflow. For example, if the airflow is impinging on the wearer's chin, mouth, and / or nose, the wearer may adjust one or both of the effectors 180, 182 to direct the airflow further away from the wearer's face to reduce the amount of air impinging on the skin. Optionally, the end effectors 180, 182 may be removable and / or replaceable. For example, the wearer may periodically remove the end effectors 180, 182 for washing / sanitizing or to replace the end effectors 180, 182 with new ones.

[0025] 3 and 4 show arrows representing the direction of airflow. In the illustrated embodiment, the first nozzle 154 emits airflow from the first end effector 180 across the wearer's face to form a controlled space 166 for the wearer's breathing space 184. For example, the controlled space 166 may extend across and in front of at least a portion of the breathing space 184 to protect the breathing space 184 and replace ambient air by providing a continuous flow of filtered air. In the illustrated embodiment, the second nozzle 156 collects the air used to form the controlled space 166 after it flows across the wearer's midsagittal plane. This air is referred to as spent air. The spent air may have pathogens and / or contaminants that it received while in the shield 166. The spent air may be collected for filtering within the ventilation device 102. By controlling one nozzle (e.g., 154) as an outlet port and the other nozzle (e.g., 156) as an inlet port, the airflow has a single, unidirectional flow direction 186 across the wearer's face, either from right to left or left to right.

[0026] 5 is a top-down cross-sectional view of a ventilation device 102 showing the internal components according to a first embodiment. The ventilation device 102 includes a travel pillow 150 (shown in phantom) as a support structure. The ventilation device 102 includes a first duct portion 202 and a second duct portion 204, both supported by the support structure. For example, the duct portions 202, 204 are at least partially contained within an interior space 206 of the pillow 150. The duct portions 202, 204 are fluidly connected to each other within a unified duct assembly 208. For example, the duct assembly 208 includes a manifold or common portion 210 having an intake port 212. The first and second duct portions 202, 204 branch off from the manifold 210 in separate directions and wrap at least partially around the wearer's neck. The duct assembly 208 may extend along a curved path that encircles a majority of the neck, such as at least 270 degrees around the neck. In the illustrated embodiment, a filter 114, such as a HEPA filter, is disposed within the manifold 210. The intake port 212 connects to a hose 105 of the air source 104, which may represent an environmental control system for the aircraft. The air source 104 supplies air to the ventilation device 102 via the hose 105 and the intake port 212. The received air is filtered through the filter 114 before flowing through the first and second duct portions 202, 204.

[0027] The first nozzle 154 is attached to the first duct portion 202, and the second nozzle 156 is attached to the second duct portion 204. In the embodiment shown, both the first and second nozzles 154, 156 discharge filtered air to form a controlled space that protects the wearer's breathing space. For example, both nozzles 154, 156 can be positioned to direct air past the wearer's face, such as across the midsagittal plane. Unlike the embodiment shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the second nozzle 156 discharges airflow that contributes to the controlled space, such that the shield is defined by air discharged from both the first and second nozzles 154, 156.

[0028] In the illustrated embodiment, the ventilation device 102 lacks a powered fan. For example, air received through the hose 105 may be pressurized to establish sufficient airflow through the duct assembly. Furthermore, the airflow that forms the shield may be of a relatively low speed or velocity. The nozzles 154, 156 may be configured to provide a laminar fluid flow therethrough. The laminar airflow may be sufficient to block incoming aerosols without being high enough to draw contaminants from other areas into the breathing space.

[0029] FIG. 6 is a top-down cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of a ventilation device 102 showing the internal components. The ventilation device 102 includes a travel pillow 150 (shown in phantom) as a support structure. The ventilation device 102 differs from the ventilation device 102 shown in FIG. 5 by the absence of a direct mechanical connection to the air supply hose and the presence of a fan 116 that dynamically drives airflow through an integrated duct assembly 208. The fan 116 includes a first fan 116A associated with the first duct section 202 and a second fan 116B associated with the second duct section 204. In the illustrated embodiment, the fans 116A and 116B are located at the distal ends of the duct sections 202 and 204, respectively, and the nozzles 154 and 156 are attached to the fans 116A and 116B. Fans 116A, 116B may be battery-powered from EESD 118 (shown in FIG. 1) or may be powered via an external power supply 106 plug-in. Both fans 116A, 116B rotate in a designated direction to create a negative pressure that draws air from the ambient environment into intake port 212 and through filter 114. The filtered air is then split into two streams through duct sections 202, 204 before being discharged through nozzles 154, 156 to form the controlled volume. Both streams contribute to forming the controlled volume in FIG. 6, similar to FIG. 5.

[0030] One advantage of the illustrated embodiment is that it avoids being tethered to an external air supply via a hose, which allows the ventilation device 102 to be more mobile and portable. Furthermore, if the fans 116A, 116B are powered via the integrated EESD 118, the ventilation device 102 can also avoid the use of external power connections, making the device 102 completely self-contained and completely portable. The wearer not only wears the device 102 as they walk and move around, but can also operate the device 102 to provide a controlled space while walking. In the aircraft example, the wearer could be a passenger who walks through a departure airport, boards the aircraft, takes a seat during the flight, exits the aircraft, and can use the device 102 to provide a controlled space while walking through a destination airport.

[0031] FIG. 7 is a top-down cross-sectional view of a third embodiment of a ventilation device 102 showing the internal components. The ventilation device 102 may include a travel pillow 150 (not shown) as a support structure, or may lack a travel pillow. The ventilation device 102 is similar to the ventilation device 102 shown in FIG. 6, except that the first and second duct sections 202, 204 are not integrated or fluidly connected. While both are located within the pillow, the first duct section 202 is fluidly separated and unconnected (e.g., mechanically decoupled) from the second duct section 204. The first duct section 202 includes a first filter 114A located at a first intake port 212A. A fan 116A draws ambient air through the first filter 114A into the first intake port 212A and delivers it to the first duct section 202. The second duct portion 204 includes a second filter 114B located at the second intake port 212B. The fan 116B draws ambient air into the second intake port 212B through the second filter 114B and delivers it to the second duct portion 204. The air stream is exhausted as described above with respect to FIG. 6. The filters 114A, 114B may be HEPA filters. The arrangement shown in FIG. 6 may simplify the structure and / or free space behind the pillow 150 behind the wearer's neck. The lack of ductwork behind the neck may potentially provide more comfort to the wearer.

[0032] FIG. 8 is a top-down cross-sectional view of a fourth embodiment of the ventilation device 102, showing the internal components. The ventilation device 102 is similar to the ventilation device 102 shown in FIG. 7, except for the placement of the fans 116A and 116B. In the illustrated embodiment, the fans 116A and 116B are positioned adjacent to or adjacent to the corresponding filters 114A and 114B. For example, the first fan 116A and the first filter 114A may collectively define a first fan module 220. Similarly, the second fan 116B and the second filter 114B may define a second fan module 222. The fans 116A and 116B are positioned adjacent to the rear of the ventilation device 102, such that the fans 116A and 116B are spaced apart from the nozzles 154 and 156. The nozzles 154, 156 may be mounted to first and second adjustable end effectors 180, 182, respectively, as shown in FIG. 3, allowing for selective orientation of the nozzles 154, 156.

[0033] FIG. 9 is a top-down cross-sectional view of a fifth embodiment of a ventilation device 102 showing the internal components. The ventilation device 102 includes a travel pillow 150 (shown in phantom) as a support structure. In other embodiments, the ventilation device 102 may lack the travel pillow 150 and instead include another integrated wearable article or element, or may even simply have modular legs or a frame without an integrated wearable article or element. The ventilation device 102 is similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 6 except that the first and second fans 116A, 116B operate to provide a unidirectional flow direction 186 as shown in FIG. 4. For example, the first duct section 202 is fluidly connected to the second duct section 204 via a manifold 210 having a filter 114. The first fan 116A is controlled to rotate in a specific direction to expel airflow from the first duct section 202 through the first nozzle 154, creating a controlled volume. The second fan 116B associated with the second duct section 204 is controlled to rotate in a specific direction to draw ambient air through the second nozzle 156 into the second duct section 204. At least some of the air drawn through the second nozzle 156 is shield air discharged from the first nozzle 154. As a result, the shield-forming airflow travels in a flow direction 186 across the wearer's face from the first nozzle 154 to the second nozzle 156. The air in the second duct section 204 is forced through the filter 114 before being discharged through the first nozzle 154, repeating the cycle. In the illustrated embodiment, the second nozzle 156 functions as an intake port. The ventilation device 102 may optionally have no other intake ports, or may in fact have at least one other intake port. The air in the illustrated embodiment is continuously recycled and filtered. Optionally, fans 116A, 116B in FIG. 9 may be operated such that the direction of flow is opposite to the direction 186 shown.

[0034] 1 may have only one fan, such as only the second fan 116B, which may be powered to provide sufficient flow such that the filtered air downstream of the filter 114 is exhausted from the first nozzle 154 at sufficient velocity and / or flow rate to form an effective shield.

[0035] Figure 10 is a top-down cross-sectional view of a sixth embodiment of a ventilation device 102 showing the internal components. The ventilation device 102 is configured the same as the ventilation device 102 of Figure 7, except that the fans 116A, 116B are controlled to direct air in different directions to provide the unidirectional flow direction 186 shown in Figure 9. For example, the first fan 116A pushes air from the first duct section 202 out the first nozzle 154, and the second fan 116B draws air through the second nozzle 156 into the second duct section 204. The air in the second duct section 204 is exhausted to the ambient environment through the exhaust port 240 of the ventilation device 102.

[0036] Figure 11 is a top-down cross-sectional view of a seventh embodiment of a ventilation device 102 showing the internal components. The ventilation device 102 is configured the same as the ventilation device 102 of Figure 8, except that the fans 116A, 116B are controlled to direct the air in different directions to provide the unidirectional flow direction 186 shown in Figures 9 and 10. Air flows through the device 102 as described above with respect to Figure 10.

[0037] FIG. 12 is a side view of another embodiment of the ventilation device 102 being worn by a person. FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the ventilation device 102 shown in FIG. 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the support structure is a collar 302 of a vest 304. The vest 304 includes a fabric panel 306 that extends over the wearer's shoulders, chest, and / or back. The collar 302 extends upward from the panel 306 and curves to encircle at least a majority of the wearer's neck, similar to a conventional vest or jacket collar. One or more ducts 110 (shown in FIG. 1) and one or more nozzles 112 may be integrated into the collar 302. Other components of the ventilation device 102 may be attached to other portions of the vest 304. For example, a fan and filter may be integrated into a back panel 308 or pack of the vest 304 that aligns with the wearer's upper back. Additionally, one or more rechargeable battery packs 314, controls, and / or input devices may be integrated into one or both of the front panels 310 of the vest 304 that are aligned with the wearer's upper chest. The back panel 308 may include one or more ports and / or vents. For example, the intake port 312 may be removably coupled to the hose 105 of the carrier's air supply. Despite the form factor changes, the ventilation device 102 shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 may operate as described above with respect to the embodiment integrated into the travel pillow 150 shown in FIGS. 2-11.

[0038] Figure 14 is a perspective view of a person wearing a vest 320 incorporating a ventilation device 102, according to one embodiment. The ventilation device 102 of Figure 14 is similar to the ventilation device 102 of Figures 12 and 13. Figure 14 shows a controlled space 322 created by the ventilation device 102. The controlled space 322 protects the personal breathing space of the person wearing the vest 320 from airborne pathogens and / or contaminants. In another embodiment, the ventilation device 102 may be incorporated into another article of clothing other than a jacket or vest.

[0039] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the ventilation device 102 being worn by a person. The ventilation device 102 of FIG. 15 is more exposed than the pillow and vest embodiment. The ventilation device 102 includes first and second fan modules 350, 352. Each fan module 350, 352 may include a powered fan and a nozzle for exhausting air and / or receiving air. The fan modules 350, 352 may also include a filter and / or filter assembly. The fan modules 350, 352 wrap around the back of the wearer's neck and connect to legs 354 extending from module 350 to module 352. The legs 354 may further support the EESD 118 (shown in FIG. 1). The EESD 118 may be spaced apart from the fan modules 350, 352 (e.g., positioned behind the wearer's head). The EESD 118 may be connected to the fan modules 350, 352 via hidden power cables routed through the legs 354. The fan modules 350, 352 and legs 354 may be supported by a frame 356, which may rest against the wearer's chest and / or the wearer's shoulders. The frame 356 and legs 354 may define or represent a support structure that together hold the fan modules 350, 352 in place relative to the wearer.

[0040] In an alternative embodiment, the leg 354 shown in Figure 15 may be an integrated duct assembly. For example, the leg 354 may be defined by a hollow duct, such as a first duct portion and a second duct portion, that channel air to and / or from the fan modules 350, 352. The duct assembly of the leg 354 may be similar to the duct assemblies shown in Figures 5, 6, and 9.

[0041] 15, the wearer is also wearing a personal mask 360 that covers the nose and mouth. Because the fan modules 350, 352 are spaced away from the wearer (e.g., a few inches from the front, back, and / or sides of the wearer's face), the ventilation device 102 does not interfere with the wearing of the other mask 360. For example, a person can wear both the ventilation device 102 and a separate personal mask simultaneously without any added discomfort.

[0042] 16A shows the fan modules 350, 352 of the ventilator 102 shown in FIG. 15 attached to a half mask 380. In one embodiment, the support structure of the ventilator 102 may be configured to be removably attached to the half mask 380 to form a combined unit. For example, the ventilator 102 may include magnets, fasteners, latches, friction fit features, and / or the like that allow for selective coupling to a separate mask, such as mask 380.

[0043] Figure 16B shows the fan modules 350, 352 of the ventilator 102 shown in Figure 15 attached to a full mask 390. Optionally, magnets, fasteners, latches, friction fit features, and / or the like on the support structure may also allow for selective coupling to the full mask 390. The full mask 390 may comprise a rigid, transparent material, such as a polymer, through which the wearer can see.

[0044] FIG. 17A is a front view of a ventilation device 102 according to another embodiment, including an array 401 of at least three fan modules 402. FIG. 17B is a top-down view of the ventilation device 102 shown in FIG. 17A. The device 102 has four modules 402 in the embodiment shown, with two modules 402 on each side of the wearer's face. By including multiple nozzles on the same side of the face, the fan modules 402 can create a larger controlled volume, such as a higher controlled volume that ensures mouth and nose protection. Individual nozzles and / or fan modules 402 can be adjusted to direct the exhausted airflow to slightly different locations relative to the wearer's face.

[0045] FIG. 18 shows a flow diagram 500 of a method for delivering saturable air to a personal breathing space according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The method includes, at 502, securing a first duct portion and a second duct portion to a support structure configured to be attached to a wearer of the personal ventilation device. At 504, a first nozzle is attached to the first duct portion and a second nozzle is attached to the second duct portion. The first nozzle and the second nozzle are attached proximate opposite sides of the wearer's face. For example, the duct portions may at least partially encircle the wearer's neck, and the nozzles may be attached at distal ends of the duct portions spaced apart along opposite sides of the lateral centerline of the ventilation device 126. For example, when worn, the nozzles are positioned along opposite sides of the wearer's midsagittal plane within a specified proximity of the wearer's chin. At 506, the first nozzle is oriented to direct airflow from the first duct portion past the wearer's face to form a controlled air space for the wearer's personal breathing space.

[0046] As described herein, embodiments of the subject disclosure provide ventilation devices and methods for delivering hygienic (e.g., filtered, conditioned, treated, disinfected, cleaned, UV-irradiated, etc.) air to a person's breathing space to block the spread of pathogens. In at least one embodiment, at least one of the nozzles at the end of a duct directs airflow toward the user's mouth / nose. The ventilation device may include at least one fan controlled to move air across the face. The fan may exhaust air from both nozzles, or one nozzle may be used as an intake port to provide airflow circulation. In one or more embodiments, the ventilation device is embedded in a travel pillow that combines fresh air with a pillow support. The nozzles may be movable, allowing the user to direct the air so that it is comfortable and properly directed toward the mouth and nose. The nozzles may also be slits that can create an "air curtain" that is guided past the face. There may be multiple nozzles positioned around the wearable device to create a type of helmet airflow, or a wide curtain of air around most of the face and head.

[0047] Furthermore, the present disclosure includes embodiments according to the following clauses:

[0048] Article 1. Personal ventilation equipment: a first duct portion and a second duct portion, both carried by a support structure configured to be attached to a wearer of the personal ventilation device; a first nozzle attached to the first duct section and a second nozzle attached to the second duct section; The personal ventilation device, wherein the first nozzle and the second nozzle are configured to be positioned adjacent to opposite sides of the wearer's face, and the first nozzle directs airflow from the first duct portion past the wearer's face to form a controlled space for the wearer's breathing space.

[0049] Clause 2. A personal ventilation device as described in clause 1, wherein the second nozzle directs airflow from the second duct portion past the face of the wearer to contribute to the controlled space.

[0050] Clause 3. A personal ventilation device as described in clause 1 or 2, wherein the second nozzle draws the airflow emitted from the first nozzle into the second duct to collect used air and enable a unidirectional flow direction across the face of the wearer.

[0051] Clause 4. A personal ventilation device as described in any one of clauses 1 to 3, wherein the first duct portion is fluidly connected to the second duct portion within an integrated duct assembly, and an air filter is disposed within the integrated duct assembly to filter the airflow forming the controlled space.

[0052] Clause 5. A personal ventilation device as described in any one of clauses 1 to 4, wherein a first air filter is disposed within the first duct section to filter the airflow forming the controlled space.

[0053] Clause 6. A personal ventilation device as described in clause 5, wherein the first duct portion and the second duct portion are fluidly separated and unconnected, and a second air filter is disposed within the second duct portion to filter airflow through the second duct portion.

[0054] Clause 7. A personal ventilation device as claimed in any one of clauses 1 to 6, further comprising at least one intake port for supplying one or more of ambient air or conditioned air to at least the first air duct.

[0055] Clause 8. A personal ventilation device as described in any one of clauses 1 to 7, further comprising a fan controlled to expel the airflow forming the controlled space through the first nozzle.

[0056] Clause 9. The personal ventilation apparatus of clause 8, further comprising an electrical energy storage device mounted to said support structure and electrically connected to said fan.

[0057] Clause 10. A personal ventilation device as described in clause 8, further comprising an electrical connector electrically connected to said fan and configured for removably connecting to a power cable of an external power source for providing power to said fan.

[0058] Clause 11. A personal ventilation device as described in clause 8, wherein the fan is a first fan associated with the first duct portion, and the personal ventilation device further comprises a second fan associated with the second duct portion, the second fan being controlled to draw the airflow forming the controlled space into the second duct portion to provide a unidirectional flow direction across the face of the wearer.

[0059] Clause 12. A personal ventilation apparatus as described in clause 8, wherein the fan is a first fan associated with the first duct portion, and the personal ventilation apparatus further comprises a second fan associated with the second duct portion, the second fan being controlled to expel airflow from the second duct portion through the second nozzle to contribute to the formation of the controlled space.

[0060] Clause 13. A personal ventilation device as described in any one of clauses 1 to 12, wherein the first nozzle and the second nozzle are disposed on a first interchangeable end effector and a second interchangeable end effector, respectively.

[0061] Clause 14. A personal ventilation device as described in any one of clauses 1 to 13, wherein the support structure is sized and shaped for attachment to at least one of the wearer's head, neck, chest, or shoulders.

[0062] Clause 15. A personal ventilation device as described in any one of clauses 1 to 14, wherein the support structure is a travel pillow that wraps around at least a majority of the wearer's neck, and wherein the first duct portion and the second duct portion are at least partially contained within the interior space of the travel pillow.

[0063] Clause 16. A personal ventilation device as described in clause 15, wherein said travel pillow comprises a foam material within said interior space.

[0064] Clause 17. A personal ventilation device as described in any one of clauses 1 to 16, wherein the support structure is a collar of a vest, the vest including fabric panels extending over one or more of the wearer's shoulders, chest, or back.

[0065] Clause 18. A personal ventilation device as described in any one of clauses 1 to 17, wherein the support structure includes an adjustable frame that holds the first duct portion and the second duct portion in a fixed position relative to the wearer.

[0066] Clause 19. A personal ventilation device according to any one of clauses 1 to 18, wherein the personal ventilation device is self-contained and portable so that the wearer may be mobile whilst wearing the personal ventilation device.

[0067] Clause 20. A personal ventilation device as described in any one of clauses 1 to 19, wherein each of the first nozzle and the second nozzle is positioned so as to be within 6 inches of the wearer's chin.

[0068] Clause 21. A personal ventilation device according to any one of clauses 1 to 20, wherein the first nozzle defines an elongated slot to define the controlled space.

[0069] Clause 22. A personal ventilation device as described in any one of clauses 1 to 21, wherein the support structure is configured to be removably attached to a mask worn by the wearer via one or more of a fastener or a friction fit.

[0070] Article 23. A method for delivering hygienic air to a personal breathing space, comprising: securing the first duct portion and the second duct portion to a support structure configured to be attached to a wearer of the personal ventilation device; attaching a first nozzle to the first duct portion and a second nozzle to the second duct portion, the first nozzle and the second nozzle being attached adjacent opposite sides of the wearer's face; directing the first nozzle to direct airflow from the first duct portion past the face of the wearer to form a controlled volume for the personal breathing space of the wearer; A method comprising:

[0071] Article 24. Personal ventilation equipment, a duct carried by a support structure configured to be attached to a wearer of the personal ventilation device; a nozzle attached to the duct and positioned adjacent to one side of the wearer's face, the nozzle positioned and shaped to direct airflow from the duct past the wearer's face to form a controlled volume for the wearer's breathing space; A personal ventilation device comprising:

[0072] Clause 25. A personal ventilation apparatus as described in clause 24, wherein a filter is disposed within said duct to filter said airflow prior to release through said nozzle.

[0073] Clause 26. A personal ventilation apparatus as described in clause 24 or 25, further comprising a battery-powered fan secured to said duct and configured to expel said airflow through said duct to form said controlled space.

[0074] Although various spatial and directional terms, such as top, bottom, lower, mid, lateral, horizontal, vertical, front, etc., may be used to describe embodiments of the subject disclosure, it is understood that such terms are used only with reference to the orientation shown in the drawings, which may be flipped, rotated, or otherwise changed, such that top becomes bottom and vice versa, horizontal becomes vertical, etc.

[0075] As used herein, a structure, constraint, or element that is "configured to" perform a task or operation is particularly structurally shaped, configured, or adapted in a manner corresponding to the task or operation. For clarity and to avoid doubt, an object that is merely capable of being modified to perform a task or operation is not "configured to" perform a task or operation as used herein.

[0076] It should be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative, not limiting. For example, the above-described embodiments (and / or aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. In addition, many modifications can be made to the teachings of the various embodiments of the present disclosure to adapt them to a particular situation or material without departing from its scope. While the dimensions and types of materials described herein are intended to define the parameters of the various embodiments of the present disclosure, these examples are by no means limiting, but rather exemplary. Many other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the above description. The scope of the various embodiments of the present disclosure should, therefore, be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. In the appended claims and the detailed description herein, the terms "including" and "containing" are used as express synonyms for the term "comprising," and the term "in which" is used as express synonym for the term "wherein." Additionally, terms such as "first," "second," and "third" are used merely as labels and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects. Moreover, the limitations of the following claims are not written in means-plus-function form, and are not intended to be construed under 35 U.S.C. § 112(f) unless such claim limitations expressly use the phrase "means for" followed by a statement of function lacking further structure.

[0077] The description herein uses examples to disclose various embodiments of the present disclosure, including the best mode, and to enable any person skilled in the art to practice various embodiments of the present disclosure, including making and using any device or system and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the various embodiments of the present disclosure is defined by the claims, and may include other embodiments that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other embodiments are intended to be within the scope of the claims if the embodiments have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if the embodiments include equivalent structural elements that differ only insignificantly from the literal language of the claims.

Claims

1. 1. A personal ventilation device comprising: a first duct portion and a second duct portion, both carried by a support structure configured to be attached to a wearer of the personal ventilation device; a first nozzle attached to the first duct section and a second nozzle attached to the second duct section; 1. A personal ventilation device, comprising: a first nozzle and a second nozzle configured to be positioned adjacent to each other on opposite sides of a midsagittal plane of the wearer's face; and a second nozzle configured to enter the second duct to collect used air and enable a unidirectional airflow direction across the midsagittal plane of the wearer's face.

2. 10. The personal ventilation device of claim 1, wherein the first duct portion fluidly connects to the second duct portion within an integrated duct assembly, and wherein an air filter is disposed within the integrated duct assembly to filter the airflow forming the controlled space.

3. 3. The personal ventilation apparatus of claim 1 or 2, wherein a first air filter is disposed within the first duct section to filter the airflow forming the controlled space.

4. 4. The personal ventilation apparatus of claim 3, wherein the first duct section and the second duct section are fluidly separated and unconnected, and a second air filter is disposed within the second duct section to filter airflow through the second duct section.

5. 5. A personal ventilation apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising at least one intake port for supplying one or more of ambient air or conditioned air to at least the first air duct.

6. 6. A personal ventilation device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a fan controlled to expel the airflow forming the controlled space through the first nozzle.

7. 7. The personal ventilation apparatus of claim 6, further comprising an electrical energy storage device mounted to the support structure and electrically connected to the fan.

8. 7. The personal ventilation device of claim 6, further comprising an electrical connector electrically connected to the fan and configured to removably connect to a power cable of an external power source for providing power to the fan.

9. 7. The personal ventilation device of claim 6, wherein the fan is a first fan associated with the first duct portion, and the personal ventilation device further comprises a second fan associated with the second duct portion, the second fan being controlled to draw the airflow forming the controlled space into the second duct portion to provide a unidirectional flow direction across the face of the wearer.

10. 10. The personal ventilation device of claim 1, wherein the first nozzle and the second nozzle are disposed on a first interchangeable end effector and a second interchangeable end effector, respectively.

11. 11. A personal ventilation device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the support structure is sized and shaped for attachment to at least one of the wearer's head, neck, chest, or shoulders.

12. 12. A personal ventilation device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the support structure is a travel pillow that wraps around at least a majority of the wearer's neck, and wherein the first duct portion and the second duct portion are at least partially contained within an interior space of the travel pillow.

13. 13. The personal ventilation device of claim 12, wherein the travel pillow comprises a foam material within the interior space.

14. 12. A personal ventilation device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the support structure is a collar of a vest including fabric panels extending over one or more of the shoulders, chest or back of the wearer.

15. 15. A personal ventilation device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the support structure comprises an adjustable frame that holds the first and second duct portions in position relative to the wearer.

16. 16. The personal ventilation device of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the personal ventilation device is self-contained and portable so that the wearer may be mobile while wearing the personal ventilation device.

17. 17. The personal ventilation device of any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein each of the first nozzle and the second nozzle is positioned to be within 6 inches of the wearer's chin.

18. 18. A personal ventilation device according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the first nozzle defines an elongated slot to define the controlled space.

19. 19. The personal ventilation device of any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the support structure is configured to be removably attached to a mask worn by the wearer via one or more of fasteners or a friction fit.

20. 1. A method for delivering hygienic air to a personal breathing space, comprising: securing the first duct portion and the second duct portion to a support structure configured to be attached to a wearer of the personal ventilation device; attaching a first nozzle to the first duct portion and a second nozzle to the second duct portion, the first nozzle and the second nozzle being attached adjacent opposite sides of the wearer's face; orienting the first nozzle to direct airflow from the first duct portion across the face of the wearer to form a controlled volume for the personal breathing space of the wearer; orienting the second nozzle to draw airflow from the first duct portion into the second duct portion to collect spent air and to allow a unidirectional airflow direction across the midsagittal plane of the wearer's face; A method comprising:

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