Respirator and respirator system

Abstract

A respirator includes a mask body, a cover attached to the mask body, and a yoke. The cover includes a bottom cover portion and a top cover portion including a pair of top slots spaced apart from each other. The respirator includes a pair of head straps corresponding to the pair of top slots and separate from each other. Each of the pair of head straps is secured to the yoke. Each of the pair of head straps is slidably received through the corresponding top slot from the pair of top slots of the cover. In the donned configuration, the yoke at least partially engages with and detachably attaches to the bottom cover portion. In the drop-down configuration, the yoke fully disconnects from the cover, such that the cover is slidable along the pair of head straps to move the mask body away from a head of a user.

Description

[0001] RESPIRATOR AND RESPIRATOR SYSTEM

[0002] Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a respirator configured to be used in a donned configuration and a drop-down configuration by a user. The present disclosure further relates to a respirator system including the respirator.

[0004] Background

[0005] Personal protective equipment (PPE), such as respirators, are often used for cleaning air to be breathed by a user. For example, the respirators are used by users in a hazardous environment, such as in a chemical, a biological, or a nuclear environment to reduce inhalation of harmful gases and / or contaminants.

[0006] In some cases, the user may need to temporarily remove the respirator. For example, the user may need to access their mouth. In some other examples, the user may be temporarily in an environment free of contaminants, i.e., a non-hazardous environment. In such cases, the user may not immediately need protection from the harmful gases and / or contaminants in the non-hazardous environment. Further, when wearing protective head gear, such as goggles, glasses, earmuffs, hats, and hardhats, the user may have to remove the head gear when donning or doffing the respirator.

[0007] The donning or doffing procedures of current art respirators are complex and cumbersome. Further, respirators including drop-down mechanisms to lower the respirators may be structurally complex and / or require additional components. This may also make such respirators bulky and / or heavy. Further, such respirators may not be easy to clean due to the structural complexity.

[0008] Therefore, a respirator that is easy and convenient to don and doff is desired. The respirator that is quickly fitted may save time and protect the user under changing environmental conditions (e.g., between the hazardous environment and the non-hazardous environment).

[0009] Summary

[0010] In a first aspect, the present disclosure provides a respirator configured to be used in a donned configuration and a drop-down configuration by a user. The respirator includes a mask body defining a breathable zone for the user. The mask body includes an upper mask portion configured to removably and at least partially engage with a nose of the user and a lower mask portion configured to removably and at least partially engage with a chin of the user. The respirator further includes a cover attached to the mask body opposite to the breathable zone. The cover includes a plurality of cover openings therethrough. Each of the plurality of cover openings is configured to allow a breathable gas to flow therethrough. The cover includes a top cover portion disposed adj acent to and at least partially engaging with the upper mask portion of the mask body and a bottom cover portion disposed adjacent to and at least partially engaging with the lower mask portion of the mask body. The top cover portion includes a pair of top slots spaced apart from each other and extending through the top cover portion. The bottom cover portion includes a pair of bottom slots spaced apart from each other and extending through the bottom cover portion. The respirator further includes a headpiece separate from the mask body and the cover. The headpiece is configured to at least partially engage with and extend around a head of the user. The respirator further includes a yoke configured to be detachably connected to the bottom cover portion of the cover. The yoke at least partially conforms to the bottom cover portion of the cover. The respirator further includes a pair of head straps corresponding to the pair of top slots and separate from each other. Each of the pair of head straps includes a first head end and an opposing second head end. Each of the pair of head straps is attached to the headpiece proximal to the first head end and secured to the yoke proximal to the second head end. Each of the pair of head straps is slidably received through the corresponding top slot from the pair of top slots of the cover between the first head end and the second head end. The respirator further includes a pair of neck straps corresponding to the pair of bottom slots and separate from each other and each of the pair of head straps. Each of the pair of neck straps includes a first neck end and an opposing second neck end. The pair of neck straps are configured to be detachably connected to each other proximal to the corresponding first neck ends, such that the pair of neck straps together form a loop that at least partially engages with and extends around a neck of the user. Each of the pair of neck straps is received through the corresponding bottom slot from the pair of bottom slots and is secured to the bottom cover portion of the cover proximal to the second neck end. In the donned configuration of the respirator: the mask body is disposed adjacent to and at least partially engages the head of the user; the yoke at least partially engages with and detachably attaches to the bottom cover portion of the cover; and the pair of neck straps are detachably connected to each other proximal to the corresponding first neck ends, such that the pair of neck straps form the loop that at least partially engages with and extends around the neck of the user. Further, in the drop-down configuration of the respirator: the yoke fully disconnects from the cover, such that the cover is slidable along the pair of head straps to move the mask body away from the head of the user; and the pair of neck straps remain detachably connected to each other proximal to the corresponding first neck ends, such that the loop at least partially engages with and extends around the neck of the user.

[0011] In a second aspect, the present disclosure provides respirator system for use by a user. The respirator system includes a respirator configured to be used in a donned configuration and a dropdown configuration by the user. The respirator includes a mask body defining a breathable zone for the user. The mask body includes an upper mask portion configured to removably and at least partially engage with a nose of the user and a lower mask portion configured to removably and at least partially engage with a chin of the user. The respirator further includes a cover attached to the mask body opposite to the breathable zone. The cover includes a plurality of cover openings therethrough. Each of the plurality of cover openings is configured to allow a breathable gas to flow therethrough. The cover includes a top cover portion disposed adjacent to and at least partially engaging with the upper mask portion of the mask body and a bottom cover portion disposed adjacent to and at least partially engaging with the lower mask portion of the mask body. The top cover portion includes a pair of top slots spaced apart from each other and extending through the top cover portion. The bottom cover portion includes a pair of bottom slots spaced apart from each other and extending through the bottom cover portion. The respirator further includes a headpiece separate from the mask body and the cover. The headpiece is configured to at least partially engage with and extend around a head of the user. The respirator further includes a yoke configured to be detachably connected to the bottom cover portion of the cover. The yoke at least partially conforms to the bottom cover portion of the cover. The respirator further includes a pair of head straps corresponding to the pair of top slots and separate from each other. Each of the pair of head straps includes a first head end and an opposing second head end. Each of the pair of head straps is attached to the headpiece proximal to the first head end and secured to the yoke proximal to the second head end. Each of the pair of head straps is slidably received through the corresponding top slot from the pair of top slots of the cover between the first head end and the second head end. The respirator further includes a pair of neck straps corresponding to the pair of bottom slots and separate from each other and each of the pair of head straps. Each of the pair of neck straps includes a first neck end and an opposing second neck end. The pair of neck straps are configured to be detachably connected to each other proximal to the corresponding first neck ends, such that the pair of neck straps together form a loop that at least partially engages with and extends around a neck of the user. Each of the pair of neck straps is received through the corresponding bottom slot from the pair of bottom slots and is secured to the bottom cover portion of the cover proximal to the second neck end. The respirator system further includes at least one filter element configured to be removably coupled to the mask body, such that the breathable gas passes through the at least one filter element before entering the breathable zone. In the donned configuration of the respirator: the mask body is disposed adjacent to and at least partially engages the head of the user; the yoke at least partially engages with and detachably attaches to the bottom cover portion of the cover; and the pair of neck straps are detachably connected to each other proximal to the corresponding first neck ends, such that the pair of neck straps form the loop that at least partially engages with and extends around the neck of the user. In the drop-down configuration of the respirator: the yoke fully disconnects from the cover, such that the cover is slidable along the pair of head straps to move the mask body away from the head of the user; and the pair of neck straps remain detachably connected to each other proximal to the corresponding first neck ends, such that the loop at least partially engages with and extends around the neck of the user.

[0012] The details of one or more examples of the disclosure are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, objects, and advantages of the disclosure will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims.

[0013] Brief Description of Drawings

[0014] Exemplary embodiments disclosed herein may be more completely understood in consideration of the following detailed description in connection with the following figures. The figures are not necessarily drawn to scale . Like numbers used in the figures refer to like components. However, it will be understood that the use of a number to refer to a component in a given figure is not intended to limit the component in another figure labeled with the same number.

[0015] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective front view of a respiratory system for use by a user, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0016] FIG. 2A is a schematic perspective front view of a respirator of the respiratory system, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0017] FIG. 2B is a schematic side view of the respirator, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0018] FIG. 2C is a schematic rear view of the respirator, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0019] FIG. 3 is a schematic partially exploded view of the respirator, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0020] FIG. 4A is a schematic perspective top view of a cover of the respirator, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0021] FIG. 4B is a schematic perspective bottom view of the cover of the respirator, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0022] FIG. 5A is a schematic perspective front view of a yoke of the respirator, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0023] FIG. 5B is a schematic perspective rear view of the yoke of the respirator, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0024] FIG. 6A is a schematic perspective side view of the respirator without a mask body and a pair of neck straps, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0025] FIG. 6B is a schematic perspective rear view of the respirator without the mask body and the pair of neck straps, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0026] FIG. 6C is a schematic perspective top view of the respirator without the mask body and the pair of neck straps, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 6D is a schematic perspective bottom view of the respirator without the mask body and the pair of neck straps, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0027] FIG. 7A is a schematic perspective side view of the respirator without the mask body, a headpiece, and a pair of head straps, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0028] FIG. 7B is a schematic perspective rear view of the respirator without the mask body, the headpiece, and the pair of head straps, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0029] FIG. 7C is a schematic front view of the respirator without the mask body, the headpiece, and the pair of head straps, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0030] FIGS. 8A-8E are schematic views illustrating steps for switching the respirator from a donned configuration of the respirator to a drop-down configuration of the respirator, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0031] FIGS. 9A-9E are schematic views illustrating steps for switching the respirator from the drop-down configuration of the respirator to the donned configuration of the respirator, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] Detailed Description

[0033] In the following description, reference is made to the accompanying figures that form a part thereof and in which various embodiments are shown by way of illustration. It is to be understood that other embodiments are contemplated and may be made without departing from the scope or spirit of the present disclosure. The following detailed description, therefore, is not to be taken in a limiting sense.

[0034] As used herein, the term “respirator” is used in a generic sense to mean a device that fits over the nose and mouth of a user.

[0035] As used herein, the term “filter” generally refers to any medium that is used in conjunction with the respirator and is responsible for filtering ambient air.

[0036] As used herein, the term “housing” generally refers to a component that wholly or partially covers, surrounds, or insulates another component.

[0037] As used herein, the term “couple” generally includes, but is not limited to, joining, connecting, fastening, linking, or associating two elements integrally or interstitially together.

[0038] As used herein, the term “directly coupled” generally means that two elements are directly in contact with each other.

[0039] As used herein, the term “indirectly coupled” generally means that a pair of elements are coupled by one or more intermediate elements.

[0040] As used herein, all numbers should be considered modified by the term “about”. As used herein, “a,” “an,” “the,” “at least one,” and “one or more” are used interchangeably. As used herein as a modifier to a property or attribute, the term “generally”, unless otherwise specifically defined, means that the property or attribute would be readily recognizable by a person of ordinary skill but without requiring absolute precision or a perfect match (e.g., within + / - 20 % for quantifiable properties).

[0041] The term “substantially”, unless otherwise specifically defined, means to a high degree of approximation (e.g., within + / - 10% for quantifiable properties) but again without requiring absolute precision or a perfect match.

[0042] The term “about”, unless otherwise specifically defined, means to a high degree of approximation (e.g., within + / - 5% for quantifiable properties) but again without requiring absolute precision or a perfect match.

[0043] As used herein, the terms “first” and “second” are used as identifiers. Therefore, such terms should not be construed as limiting of this disclosure. The terms “first” and “second” when used in conjunction with a feature or an element can be interchanged throughout the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0044] As used herein, “at least one of A and B” should be understood to mean “only A, only B, or both A and B”.

[0045] As used herein, the recitations of numerical ranges by endpoints include all numbers subsumed within that range as well as the endpoints (e.g., 1 to 5 includes 1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.80, 4, 5, etc.).

[0046] Personal protective equipment (PPE), such as respirators, are often used for cleaning air to be breathed by a user. For example, respirators are used by users in a hazardous environment, such as in a chemical, a biological, or a nuclear environment to reduce inhalation of harmful gases and / or contaminants.

[0047] In some cases, the user may need to temporarily remove the respirator. For example, the user may need to access their mouth. In some other examples, the user may be temporarily in an environment free of contaminants, i.e., a non-hazardous environment. In such cases, the user may not immediately need protection from the harmful gases and / or contaminants. Further, when wearing protective head gear, such as goggles, glasses, earmuffs, and hats, the user might have to remove the head gear when donning or doffing the respirator.

[0048] The donning or doffing procedures of current art respirators are complex and cumbersome. Further, respirators including drop-down mechanisms to lower the respirators may be structurally complex and / or require additional components. This may also make such respirators bulky and / or heavy. Further, such respirators may not be easy to clean due to the structural complexity.

[0049] Therefore, a respirator that is easy and convenient to don and doff is desired. The respirator that is quickly fitted may save time and protect the user under changing environmental conditions (e.g., between the hazardous environment and the non-hazardous environment). According to aspects of this disclosure, a respirator configured to be used in a donned configuration and a drop-down configuration by a user is provided. The respirator includes a mask body defining a breathable zone for the user. The mask body includes an upper mask portion configured to removably and at least partially engage with a nose of the user and a lower mask portion configured to removably and at least partially engage with a chin of the user. The respirator further includes a cover attached to the mask body opposite to the breathable zone. The cover includes a plurality of cover openings therethrough. Each of the plurality of cover openings is configured to allow a breathable gas to flow therethrough. The cover includes a top cover portion disposed adjacent to and at least partially engaging with the upper mask portion of the mask body and a bottom cover portion disposed adjacent to and at least partially engaging with the lower mask portion of the mask body. The top cover portion includes a pair of top slots spaced apart from each other and extending through the top cover portion. The bottom cover portion includes a pair of bottom slots spaced apart from each other and extending through the bottom cover portion. The respirator further includes a headpiece separate from the mask body and the cover. The headpiece is configured to at least partially engage with and extend around a head of the user. The respirator further includes a yoke configured to be detachably connected to the bottom cover portion of the cover. The yoke at least partially conforms to the bottom cover portion of the cover. The respirator further includes a pair of head straps corresponding to the pair of top slots and separate from each other. Each of the pair of head straps includes a first head end and an opposing second head end. Each of the pair of head straps is attached to the headpiece proximal to the first head end and secured to the yoke proximal to the second head end. Each of the pair of head straps is slidably received through the corresponding top slot from the pair of top slots of the cover between the first head end and the second head end. The respirator further includes a pair of neck straps corresponding to the pair of bottom slots and separate from each other and each of the pair of head straps. Each of the pair of neck straps includes a first neck end and an opposing second neck end. The pair of neck straps are configured to be detachably connected to each other proximal to the corresponding first neck ends, such that the pair of neck straps together form a loop that at least partially engages with and extends around a neck of the user. Each of the pair of neck straps is received through the corresponding bottom slot from the pair of bottom slots and is secured to the bottom cover portion of the cover proximal to the second neck end. In the donned configuration of the respirator: the mask body is disposed adjacent to and at least partially engages the head of the user; the yoke at least partially engages with and detachably attaches to the bottom cover portion of the cover; and the pair of neck straps are detachably connected to each other proximal to the corresponding first neck ends, such that the pair of neck straps form the loop that at least partially engages with and extends around the neck of the user. Further, in the drop-down configuration of the respirator: the yoke fully disconnects from the cover, such that the cover is slidable along the pair of head straps to move the mask body away from the head of the user; and the pair of neck straps remain detachably connected to each other proximal to the corresponding first neck ends, such that the loop at least partially engages with and extends around the neck of the user.

[0050] The respirator of the present disclosure may allow the user to don the respirator in the donned configuration and temporarily doff the respirator in the drop-down configuration. The respirator of the present disclosure has a simple mechanism to switch the respirator between the donned configuration and the drop-down configuration by utilizing the yoke of the respirator for enabling the user to don and temporarily doff the respirator. Further, the respirator may have a relatively flat or low profile than the conventional respirators in the donned configuration. Fewer components and simple design of the respirator may also ensure that the respirator is easier to clean. Due to this, the respirator may also be lighter in weight than the conventional respirators. Further, the user may not have to remove or detach the pair of neck straps to temporarily doff the respirator in the drop-down configuration. Thus, the user may be able to quickly don the respirator again when required. Specifically, the respirator may be quickly fitted, may save time, and may protect the user under changing environmental conditions (e.g., between the hazardous environment and the non- hazardous environment). Therefore, the respirator is structurally simple, and quick, easy, and convenient for the user to operate.

[0051] Referring now to Figures, FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective front view of a respiratory system 300 for use by a user 10 shown in FIG. 8A, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In some examples, the user 10 may be one of emergency personnel, e.g., a firefighter, a law enforcement, medical personnel, a first responder, a paramedic, or any other personnel working in a potentially hazardous environment, e.g., in a chemical, a biological, or a nuclear environment, or any other physical environment, e.g., a construction site, a mining site, or a manufacturing site.

[0052] In some examples, the respiratory system 300 may be a part of a personal protective equipment (PPE). Examples of PPE may include, but are not limited to, respiratory protection equipment (including disposable respirators, reusable respirators, powered air purifying respirators, and supplied air respirators), protective eyewear, such as visors, goggles, filters or shields (any of which may include augmented reality functionality), protective headwear, such as hard hats, hoods or helmets, hearing protection (including ear plugs and ear muffs), protective shoes, protective gloves, other protective clothing, such as coveralls and aprons, protective articles, such as sensors, safety tools, detectors, global positioning devices, mining cap lamps, fall protection harnesses, selfretracting lifelines, exoskeletons, heating and cooling systems, gas detectors, and any other suitable gear configured to protect the user 10 from injury.

[0053] The respiratory system 300 includes a respirator 100. The respirator 100 is configured to be used in the donned configuration 102 (shown in FIG. 8 A) and the drop-down configuration 104 (shown in FIG. 8E) by the user 10. The respirator 100 includes a mask body 110 defining a breathable zone 111 (shown in FIG. 2C) for the user 10. The respirator 100 is intended to be worn on a face by the user 10, such that the breathable zone 111 is defined between the mask body 110 and the face of the user 10. Specifically, the mask body 110 is configured to removably and at least partially engage with a nose 12 (shown in FIG. 8E) and a chin 14 (shown in FIG. 8E) of the user 10.

[0054] The respirator 100 further includes a cover 120 attached to the mask body 110 opposite to the breathable zone 111. The cover 120 may be directly or indirectly attached to the mask body 110. In some examples, the cover 120 may have a similar shape as that of the mask body 110. In some examples, the cover 120 may be further configured to be snap-fitted to the mask body 110.

[0055] The respirator 100 further includes a headpiece 130 separate from the mask body 110 and the cover 120. The headpiece 130 is configured to at least partially engage with and extend around a head 16 (shown in FIG. 8E) of the user 10. The respirator 100 further includes a yoke 140 configured to be detachably connected to the cover 120.

[0056] The respirator 100 further includes a pair of head straps 150 separate from each other. Each of the pair of head straps 150 is attached to the headpiece 130. Further, each of the pair of head straps 150 is secured to the yoke 140. In some examples, the pair of head straps 150 and the headpiece 130 may provide a means by which the user 10 is able to forcibly bring the mask body 110 into contact with the face of the user 10 to effect a seal therewith. In some embodiments, each of the pair of head straps 150 includes an elastomeric material. In some examples, each of the pair of head straps 150 including the elastomeric material may ensure a continuing seal, notwithstanding movement of the user 10.

[0057] The respirator 100 further includes a pair of neck straps 160 separate from each other and each of the pair of head straps 150. The pair of neck straps 160 are configured to be detachably connected to each other, such that the pair of neck straps 160 together form a loop 166 (shown in FIG. 8D) that at least partially engages with and extends around a neck 18 (shown in FIG. 8D) of the user 10.

[0058] The respiratory system 300 further includes at least one filter element 200 configured to be removably coupled to the mask body 110. Specifically, the respiratory system 300 includes the at least one filter element 200 configured to be removably coupled to the mask body 110, such that a breathable gas passes through the at least one filter 200 element before entering the breathable zone 111. The breathable gas may be ambient air that may be purified by the at least one filter element 200. Thus, the user 10 may receive the breathable gas after the breathable gas passes through the at least one filter element 200. The at least one filter element 200 may contain filter media that may include one or more layers of particulate and / or gaseous filter media. Particulate filter media is fashioned to remove particulates that are suspended in the ambient air, and the gaseous media is fashioned to remove vapors that are suspended therein. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 1, the respiratory system 300 includes two filter elements 200 configured to be removably coupled to opposing sides of the mask body 110.

[0059] In some examples, the respiratory system 300 may further include accessories (not shown), such as voice emitters, filtering components, etc. For example, voice emitters may be mounted on the respirator 100 to amplify the voice of the user 10 to facilitate communication with other individuals and help provide intelligible speech transmittance through the respirator 100. In some examples, the respiratory system 300 may further include a voice communication system that provides, for example, voice amplification, transmission and / or radio communication functionality.

[0060] FIGS. 2A to 2C are schematic views of the respirator 100, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, FIG. 2A is a schematic perspective front view of the respirator 100, FIG. 2B is a schematic side view of the respirator 100, and FIG. 2C is a schematic rear view of the respirator 100.

[0061] FIG. 3 is schematic partially exploded view of the respirator 100, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, FIG. 3 illustrates the mask body 110 of the respirator 100 separate from the remaining respirator 100.

[0062] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the mask body 110 includes an upper mask portion 112 (shown in FIG. 2C) configured to removably and at least partially engage with the nose 12 (shown in FIG. 8E) of the user 10 (shown in FIG. 8E) and a lower mask portion 114 (shown in FIG. 2C) configured to removably and at least partially engage with the chin 14 (shown in FIG. 8E) of the user 10.

[0063] Further, the cover 120 includes a top cover portion 122 (shown in FIG. 2B) disposed adjacent to and at least partially engaging with the upper mask portion 112 of the mask body 110 and a bottom cover portion 124 (shown in FIG. 2B) disposed adjacent to and at least partially engaging with the lower mask portion 114 of the mask body 110. The cover 120 has an outer surface 125 opposite to the mask body 110. The bottom cover portion 124 further includes an edge section 129 (shown in FIG. 2C). The edge section 129 extends towards the mask body 110.

[0064] In some embodiments, the mask body 110 includes a sealing element 116. As discussed above, the mask body 110 defines the breathable zone 111 for the user 10. Specifically, the sealing element 116 defines the breathable zone 111 for the user 10. In some examples, the sealing element 116 may be designed to form a seal at its periphery with the face of the user 10. Specifically, the sealing element 116 may be configured to cover the nose 12 and the chin 14 of the user 10 in a sealing manner. In some examples, the pair of head straps 150 and the headpiece 130 may provide a means by which the user 10 is able to forcibly bring the sealing element 116 of the mask body 110 into contact with the face of the user 10 to effect a seal therewith.

[0065] In some embodiments, the mask body 110 further includes a housing 118 coupled to the sealing element 116 and disposed in fluid communication with the breathable zone 111 of the mask body 110. The housing 118 may be directly or indirectly coupled to the sealing element 116. In some examples, the housing 118 may be further configured to be snap-fitted to the sealing element 116.

[0066] As discussed above with reference to FIG. 1, the respiratory system 300 includes the at least one filter element 200 configured to be removably coupled to the mask body 110, such that the breathable gas passes through the at least one filter 200 element before entering the breathable zone 111. In some embodiments, the housing 118 is configured to be removably coupled to at least one filter element 200, such that the breathable gas passes through the at least one filter element 200 before entering the breathable zone 111.

[0067] In some examples, the respirator 100 may be fabricated, for instance, from a flexible material, such as rubber, silicon, foam, plastic, and / or the like. In some examples, the respirator 100 may be formed of a material that is selected to be substantially impermeable to airborne environmental hazards that the respiratory system 300 may be designed to offer a barrier to. In some examples, one or more components of the respirator 100 may be produced from additive manufacturing techniques.

[0068] In some examples, the sealing element 116 may be fabricated, for instance, from a flexible material, such as rubber, or silicon. Further, the mask body 110 may be fabricated, for instance from a rigid material, such as plastic. In some examples, the yoke 140 may be fabricated, for instance, from a material, such as plastic, and / or the like.

[0069] FIGS. 4A and 4B are schematic views of the cover 120 of the respirator 100 shown in FIG. 1, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, FIG. 4A is a schematic perspective top view of the cover 120 of the respirator 100 and FIG. 4B is a schematic perspective bottom view of the cover 120 of the respirator 100.

[0070] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4A-4B, the cover 120 includes a plurality of cover openings 121 therethrough. Each of the plurality of cover openings 121 is configured to allow the breathable gas to flow therethrough.

[0071] The top cover portion 122 (shown in FIG. 2B) includes a pair of top slots 126 (best shown in FIG. 4A) spaced apart from each other and extending through the top cover portion 122. Further, the bottom cover portion 124 (shown in FIG. 2B) includes a pair of bottom slots 128 (best shown in FIG. 4B) spaced apart from each other and extending through the bottom cover portion 124.

[0072] FIGS. 5A and 5B are schematic views of the yoke 140 of the respirator 100 shown in FIG. 1, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, FIG. 5A is a schematic perspective front view of the yoke 140 of the respirator 100 and FIG. 5B is a schematic perspective rear view of the yoke 140 of the respirator 100.

[0073] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 5A-5B, the yoke 140 is configured to be detachably connected to the bottom cover portion 124 of the cover 120. In some embodiments, the yoke 140 includes a pair of yoke slots 142 corresponding to the pair of head straps 150 and extending through the yoke 140. In some embodiments, the yoke 140 further includes a central portion 144 and a pair of end portions 146 extending from opposing ends of the central portion 144. The yoke 140 at least partially conforms to the bottom cover portion 124 of the cover 120. Specifically, in some embodiments, each of the pair of end portions 146 at least partially conforms to an outer surface of the bottom cover portion 124 of the cover 120 opposite to the mask body 110. The outer surface of the bottom cover portion 124 of the cover 120 may correspond to a bottom portion of the outer surface 125 of the cover 120. In some embodiments, each of the pair of end portions 146 includes a corresponding yoke slot 142 from the pair of yoke slots 142.

[0074] In some embodiments, the central portion 144 of the yoke 140 includes a tab 148 extending away from the cover 120 and configured to be gripped by the user 10.

[0075] In some embodiments, the central portion 144 of the yoke 140 further includes a latch 145 extending towards the cover 120. In some embodiments, the latch 145 of the yoke 140 is configured to be snap-fitted to the edge section 129 of the bottom cover portion 124.

[0076] FIGS. 6A to 6D are schematic views of the respirator 100 shown in FIGS. 2A-2C with some components not shown, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, FIGS. 6A to 6D are schematic views of the respirator 100 without the mask body 110 and the pair of neck straps 160, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0077] FIG. 6A is a schematic perspective side view of the respirator 100 without the mask body 110 and the pair of neck straps 160. FIG. 6B is a schematic perspective rear view of the respirator 100 without the mask body 110 and the pair of neck straps 160. FIG. 6C is a schematic perspective top view of the respirator 100 without the mask body 110 and the pair of neck straps 160. FIG. 6D is a schematic perspective bottom view of the respirator 100 without the mask body 110 and the pair of neck straps 160.

[0078] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 6A-6D, the pair of head straps 150 correspond to the pair of top slots 126. Further, each of the pair of head straps 150 includes a first head end 152 and an opposing second head end 154. Each of the pair of head straps 150 is slidably received through the corresponding top slot 126 from the pair of top slots 126 of the cover 120. Specifically, each of the pair of head straps 150 is slidably received through the corresponding top slot 126 from the pair of top slots 126 of the cover 120 between the first head end 152 and the second head end 154.

[0079] Each of the pair of head straps 150 is attached to the headpiece 130 proximal to the first head end 152 and secured to the yoke 140 proximal to the second head end 154. Specifically, each of the pair of head straps 150 includes a head securing loop 156 at the second head end 154, such that the head securing loop 156 secures the corresponding head strap 150 to the corresponding yoke slot 142 from the pair of yoke slots 142.

[0080] In some embodiments, the respirator 100 further includes a pair of buckles 180 corresponding to the pair of head straps 150 for attaching the pair of head straps 150 to the headpiece 130. Each of the pair of buckles 180 is fixedly attached to opposing ends of the headpiece 130. Each of the pair of buckles 180 is adjustably secured to the corresponding head strap 150 from the pair of head straps 150 proximal to the corresponding first head end 152, such that a length of each of the pair of head straps 150 extending between the headpiece 130 and the yoke 140 is adjustable.

[0081] FIGS. 7A to 7C are schematic views of the respirator 100 shown in FIG. 1 with some components not shown. Specifically, FIGS. 7A to 7C are schematic views of the respirator 100 without the mask body 110, the headpiece 130, and the pair of head straps 150 shown in FIG. 1, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0082] FIG. 7A is a schematic perspective side view of the respirator 100 without the mask body 110, the headpiece 130, and the pair of head straps 150. FIG. 7B is a schematic perspective rear side view of the respirator 100 without the mask body 110, the headpiece 130, and the pair of head straps 150. FIG. 7C is a schematic front view of the respirator 100 without the mask body 110, the headpiece 130, and the pair of head straps 150.

[0083] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 7A-7C, the pair of neck straps 160 correspond to the pair of bottom slots 128. Further, each of the pair of neck straps 160 includes a first neck end 162 and an opposing second neck end 164.

[0084] As discussed above, the pair of neck straps 160 are configured to be detachably connected to each other, such that the pair of neck straps 160 together form the loop 166 (shown in FIG. 8D) that at least partially engages with and extends around the neck 18 (shown in FIG. 8D) of the user 10. Specifically, the pair of neck straps 160 are configured to be detachably connected to each other proximal to the corresponding first neck ends 162, such that the pair of neck straps 160 together form the loop 166 that at least partially engages with and extends around the neck 18 of the user 10.

[0085] Each of the pair of neck straps 160 is received through the corresponding bottom slot 128 from the pair of bottom slots 128 and is secured to the bottom cover portion 124 (shown in FIG. 2B) of the cover 120 proximal to the second neck end 164.

[0086] In some embodiments, each of the pair of neck straps 160 includes a neck securing loop 168 (shown in FIG. 7B) at the second neck end 164, such that the neck securing loop 168 secures the corresponding neck strap 160 to the corresponding bottom slot 128.

[0087] In some embodiments, the respirator 100 further includes a quick-release buckle 190 including complementary portions 192 that are configured to detachably connect the pair of neck straps 160 to each other proximal to the corresponding first neck ends 162. Specifically, the complementary portions 192 are configured to detachably connect the pair of neck straps 160 to each other proximal to the corresponding first neck ends 162 to form the loop 166 (shown in FIG. 8D) that at least partially engages with and extends around the neck 18 (shown in FIG. 8D) of the user 10. In some embodiments, each of the pair of neck straps 160 is further adjustably secured to the corresponding complementary portion 192 of the quick-release buckle 190, such that a length of each of the pair of neck straps 160 extending between the corresponding complementary portion 192 of the quick-release buckle 190 and the bottom cover portion 124 of the cover 120 is adjustable.

[0088] FIGS. 8A-8E are schematic views illustrating steps for switching the respirator 100 from the donned configuration 102 (shown in FIG. 8 A) of the respirator 100 to the drop-down configuration 104 (shown in FIG. 8E) of the respirator 100, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0089] Specifically, FIG. 8A is a schematic view of the respirator 100 in the donned configuration 102 the respirator 100, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0090] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 8 A, in the donned configuration 102 of the respirator 100, the mask body 110 is disposed adjacent to and at least partially engages the head 16 of the user 10. Specifically, in the donned configuration 102 of the respirator 100, the mask body 110 is disposed adjacent to and at least partially engages the nose 12 (shown in FIG. 8E) and the chin 14 (shown in FIG. 8E) of the user 10. Further, in the donned configuration 102 of the respirator 100, the headpiece 130 at least partially engages with and extends around the head 16 of the user 10.

[0091] In the donned configuration 102 of the respirator 100, the yoke 140 at least partially engages with and detachably attaches to the bottom cover portion 124 of the cover 120. Specifically, in the donned configuration 102 of the respirator 100, the latch 145 of the yoke 140 is snap-fitted to the edge section 129 of the bottom cover portion 124.

[0092] Furthermore, in the donned configuration 102 of the respirator 100, the pair of neck straps 160 are detachably connected to each other proximal to the corresponding first neck ends 162, such that the pair of neck straps 160 form the loop 166 (shown in FIG. 8D) that at least partially engages with and extends around the neck 18 of the user 10.

[0093] As discussed above, in some embodiments, each of the pair of head straps 150 includes the elastomeric material. In some embodiments, each of the pair of head straps 150 includes the elastomeric material such that, in the donned configuration 102, each of the pair of head straps 150 at least partially follows a contour of the outer surface 125 of the cover 120 opposite to the mask body 110. Since the pair of head straps 150 includes the elastomeric material and follow the contour of the outer surface 125 of the cover 120, the respirator 100 may not require strap guides.

[0094] In some embodiments, in the donned configuration 102 of the respirator 100, each of the pair of end portions 146 at least partially engages with the outer surface of the bottom cover portion 124 of the cover 120. In some embodiments, in the donned configuration 102 of the respirator 100, the yoke 140 further at least partially engages with each of the pair of neck straps 160.

[0095] In order to switch the respirator 100 from the donned configuration 102 of the respirator 100 to the drop-down configuration 104 of the respirator 100, the user 10 may grasp the yoke 140 as shown in FIG. 8B. Specifically, the user 10 may grip the tab 148 (best shown in FIG. 5A) of the yoke 140.

[0096] Further, the user 10 may unlatch the yoke 140 as shown in FIG. 8C. Specifically, the user 10 may unlatch the latch 145 (best shown in FIG. 5B) of the yoke 140 which is snap-fitted to the edge section 129 (best shown in FIG. 6B) of the bottom cover portion 124 in the donned configuration 102 of the respirator 100.

[0097] Next, the user 10 may extend the yoke 140 and pull down the mask body 110 as shown in FIG. 8D. Specifically, the user 10 may pull down the mask body 110 along the pair of head straps 150 to move the mask body 110 away from the head 16 of the user 10.

[0098] FIG. 8E is a schematic view of the respirator 100 in the drop-down configuration 104 of the respirator 100, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0099] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 8E, in the drop-down configuration 104 of the respirator 100, the yoke 140 fully disconnects from the cover 120, such that the cover 120 is slidable along the pair of head straps 150 to move the mask body 110 away from the head 16 of the user 10. The amount of drop-down of the respirator 100 in the drop-down configuration 104 may be adjusted by adjusting the length of each of the pair of head straps 150 extending between the headpiece 130 and the yoke 140. In addition, in the drop-down configuration 104 of respirator 100, the yoke 140 fully disengages from each of the pair of neck straps 160.

[0100] Further, in the drop-down configuration 104 of the respirator 100, the pair of neck straps 160 remain detachably connected to each other proximal to the corresponding first neck ends 162, such that the loop 166 at least partially engages with and extends around the neck 18 of the user 10. In some embodiments, in the drop-down configuration 104 of the respirator 100, the headpiece 130 also remains at least partially engaging with and extending around the head 16 of the user 10.

[0101] FIGS. 9A-9E are schematic views illustrating steps for switching the respirator 100 from the drop-down configuration 104 of the respirator 100 to the donned configuration 102 of the respirator 100, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0102] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 9A-9E, in order to switch the respirator 100 from the drop-down configuration 104 shown in FIG. 9A of the respirator 100 to the donned configuration 102 shown in FIG. 9E of the respirator 100, the user 10 may position the mask body 110 adjacent to the head 16 of the user 10 and extend the yoke 140 as shown in FIG. 9B. Specifically, the user 10 may position the mask body 110 on the nose 12 and the chin 14 of the user 10 and extend the pair of head straps 150 through the corresponding pair of top slots 126 of the cover 120 by extending the yoke 140.

[0103] The user 10 may then stretch the pair of head straps 150 over the cover 120 while holding the mask body 110 in its position as shown in FIG. 9C. Next, the user 10 may latch the yoke 140 to the cover 120 as shown in FIG. 9D. Specifically, the user 10 may latch the latch 145 of the yoke 140 to the edge section 129 of the bottom cover portion 124. Referring to FIGS. 1 to 9A-9E, the respirator 100 may therefore allow the user 10 to don the respirator 100 in the donned configuration 102 and temporarily doff the respirator 100 in the drop-down configuration 104. Further, as discussed above, the respirator 100 has a simple mechanism to switch the respirator 100 between the donned configuration 102 and the drop-down configuration 104 by utilizing the yoke 140 of the respirator 100 for enabling the user 10 to don and temporarily doff the respirator 100. Further, since the pair of head straps 150 follow the contour of the outer surface 125 of the cover 120 in the donned configuration 102, the respirator 100 may have a relatively flat or low profile than the conventional respirators in a donned configuration. Fewer components and simple design of the respirator 100 may also ensure that the respirator 100 is easier to clean. Due to this, the respirator 100 may also be lighter in weight than the conventional respirators. Further, the user 10 may not have to remove or detach the pair of neck straps 160 to temporarily doff the respirator 100 in the drop-down configuration 104. The user 10 may be able to quickly don the respirator 100 again when required. Specifically, the respirator 100 may be quickly fitted, may save time, and may protect the user 10 under changing environmental conditions (e.g., between a hazardous environment and a non-hazardous environment). Therefore, the respirator 100 is structurally simple, and quick, easy, and convenient for the user 10 to operate.

[0104] In the present detailed description of the preferred embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. The illustrated embodiments are not intended to be exhaustive of all embodiments according to the invention. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized, and structural or logical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. The following detailed description, therefore, is not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims.

[0105] Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing feature sizes, amounts, and physical properties used in the specification and claims are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term “about.” Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in the foregoing specification and attached claims are approximations that can vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by those skilled in the art utilizing the teachings disclosed herein.

[0106] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” encompass embodiments having plural referents, unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the term “or” is generally employed in its sense including “and / or” unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

[0107] Spatially related terms, including but not limited to, “proximate,” “distal,” “lower,” “upper,” “beneath,” “below,” “above,” and “on top,” if used herein, are utilized for ease of description to describe spatial relationships of an element(s) to another. Such spatially related terms encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the particular orientations depicted in the figures and described herein. For example, if an object depicted in the figures is turned over or flipped over, portions previously described as below or beneath other elements would then be above or on top of those other elements. As used herein, when an element, component, or layer for example is described as forming a “coincident interface” with, or being “on,” “connected to,” “coupled with,” “stacked on” or “in contact with” another element, component, or layer, it can be directly on, directly connected to, directly coupled with, directly stacked on, in direct contact with, or intervening elements, components or layers may be on, connected, coupled or in contact with the particular element, component, or layer, for example. When an element, component, or layer for example is referred to as being “directly on,” “directly connected to,” “directly coupled with,” or “directly in contact with” another element, there are no intervening elements, components, or layers for example.

[0108] Various examples have been described. These and other examples are within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A respirator configured to be used in a donned configuration and a drop-down configuration by a user, the respirator comprising: a mask body defining a breathable zone for the user, the mask body comprising an upper mask portion configured to removably and at least partially engage with a nose of the user and a lower mask portion configured to removably and at least partially engage with a chin of the user; a cover attached to the mask body opposite to the breathable zone, the cover comprising a plurality of cover openings therethrough, wherein each of the plurality of cover openings is configured to allow a breathable gas to flow therethrough, wherein the cover comprises a top cover portion disposed adjacent to and at least partially engaging with the upper mask portion of the mask body and a bottom cover portion disposed adjacent to and at least partially engaging with the lower mask portion of the mask body, wherein the top cover portion comprises a pair of top slots spaced apart from each other and extending through the top cover portion, and wherein the bottom cover portion comprises a pair of bottom slots spaced apart from each other and extending through the bottom cover portion; a headpiece separate from the mask body and the cover, wherein the headpiece is configured to at least partially engage with and extend around a head of the user; a yoke configured to be detachably connected to the bottom cover portion of the cover, wherein the yoke at least partially conforms to the bottom cover portion of the cover; a pair of head straps corresponding to the pair of top slots and separate from each other, wherein each of the pair of head straps comprises a first head end and an opposing second head end, wherein each of the pair of head straps is attached to the headpiece proximal to the first head end and secured to the yoke proximal to the second head end, wherein each of the pair of head straps is slidably received through the corresponding top slot from the pair of top slots of the cover between the first head end and the second head end; and a pair of neck straps corresponding to the pair of bottom slots and separate from each other and each of the pair of head straps, wherein each of the pair of neck straps comprises a first neck end and an opposing second neck end, wherein the pair of neck straps are configured to be detachably connected to each other proximal to the corresponding first neck ends, such that the pair of neck straps together form a loop that at least partially engages with and extends around a neck of the user, and wherein each of the pair of neck straps is received through the corresponding bottom slot from the pair of bottom slots and is secured to the bottom cover portion of the cover proximal to the second neck end; wherein, in the donned configuration of the respirator: the mask body is disposed adjacent to and at least partially engages the head of the user;the yoke at least partially engages with and detachably attaches to the bottom cover portion of the cover; and the pair of neck straps are detachably connected to each other proximal to the corresponding first neck ends, such that the pair of neck straps form the loop that at least partially engages with and extends around the neck of the user; and wherein, in the drop-down configuration of the respirator: the yoke fully disconnects from the cover, such that the cover is slidable along the pair of head straps to move the mask body away from the head of the user; and the pair of neck straps remain detachably connected to each other proximal to the corresponding first neck ends, such that the loop at least partially engages with and extends around the neck of the user.

2. The respirator of claim 1, wherein each of the pair of head straps comprises an elastomeric material, such that, in the donned configuration, each of the pair of head straps at least partially follows a contour of an outer surface of the cover opposite to the mask body.

3. The respirator of claim 1, wherein the yoke comprises a pair of yoke slots corresponding to the pair of head straps and extending through the yoke, wherein each of the pair of head straps comprises a head securing loop at the second head end, such that the head securing loop secures the corresponding head strap to the corresponding yoke slot from the pair of yoke slots.

4. The respirator of claim 3, wherein the yoke further comprises a central portion and a pair of end portions extending from opposing ends of the central portion, wherein each of the pair of end portions at least partially conforms to an outer surface of the bottom cover portion of the cover opposite to the mask body, wherein, in the donned configuration of the respirator, each of the pair of end portions at least partially engages with the outer surface of the bottom cover portion of the cover, and wherein each of the pair of end portions comprises a corresponding yoke slot from the pair of yoke slots.

5. The respirator of claim 4, wherein the central portion of the yoke comprises a tab extending away from the cover and configured to be gripped by the user.

6. The respirator of claim 4, wherein the central portion of the yoke further comprises a latch extending towards the cover, wherein the bottom cover portion further comprises an edge section, and wherein the latch of the yoke is configured to be snap-fitted to the edge section of the bottom cover portion.

7. The respirator of claim 1, wherein, in the donned configuration of the respirator, the yoke at least partially engages with each of the pair of neck straps, and wherein, in the drop-down configuration of respirator, the yoke fully disengages from each of the pair of neck straps.

8. The respirator of claim 1, further comprising a pair of buckles corresponding to the pair of head straps for attaching the pair of head straps to the headpiece, wherein each of the pair of buckles is fixedly attached to opposing ends of the headpiece, and wherein each of the pair of buckles is adjustably secured to the corresponding head strap from the pair of head straps proximal to the corresponding first head end, such that a length of each of the pair of head straps extending between the headpiece and the yoke is adjustable.

9. The respirator of claim 1, wherein each of the pair of neck straps comprises a neck securing loop at the second neck end, such that the neck securing loop secures the corresponding neck strap to the corresponding bottom slot.

10. The respirator of claim 1, further comprising a quick-release buckle comprising complementary portions that are configured to detachably connect the pair of neck straps to each other proximal to the corresponding first neck ends, wherein each of the pair of neck straps is further adjustably secured to the corresponding complementary portion of the quick-release buckle, such that a length of each of the pair of neck straps extending between the corresponding complementary portion of the quick-release buckle and the bottom cover portion of the cover is adjustable.

11. The respirator of claim 1, wherein the mask body comprises: a sealing element defining the breathable zone for the user; and a housing coupled to the sealing element and disposed in fluid communication with the breathable zone of the mask body, wherein the housing is configured to be removably coupled to at least one filter element, such that the breathable gas passes through the at least one filter element before entering the breathable zone.

12. A respirator system for use by a user, the respirator system comprising: a respirator configured to be used in a donned configuration and a drop-down configuration by the user, the respirator comprising:a mask body defining a breathable zone for the user, the mask body comprising an upper mask portion configured to removably and at least partially engage with a nose of the user and a lower mask portion configured to removably and at least partially engage with a chin of the user; a cover attached to the mask body opposite to the breathable zone, the cover comprising a plurality of cover openings therethrough, wherein each of the plurality of cover openings is configured to allow a breathable gas to flow therethrough, wherein the cover comprises a top cover portion disposed adjacent to and at least partially engaging with the upper mask portion of the mask body and a bottom cover portion disposed adjacent to and at least partially engaging with the lower mask portion of the mask body, wherein the top cover portion comprises a pair of top slots spaced apart from each other and extending through the top cover portion, and wherein the bottom cover portion comprises a pair of bottom slots spaced apart from each other and extending through the bottom cover portion; a headpiece separate from the mask body and the cover, wherein the headpiece is configured to at least partially engage with and extend around a head of the user; a yoke configured to be detachably connected to the bottom cover portion of the cover, wherein the yoke at least partially conforms to the bottom cover portion of the cover; a pair of head straps corresponding to the pair of top slots and separate from each other, wherein each of the pair of head straps comprises a first head end and an opposing second head end, wherein each of the pair of head straps is attached to the headpiece proximal to the first head end and secured to the yoke proximal to the second head end, wherein each of the pair of head straps is slidably received through the corresponding top slot from the pair of top slots of the cover between the first head end and the second head end; and a pair of neck straps corresponding to the pair of bottom slots and separate from each other and each of the pair of head straps, wherein each of the pair of neck straps comprises a first neck end and an opposing second neck end, wherein the pair of neck straps are configured to be detachably connected to each other proximal to the corresponding first neck ends, such that the pair of neck straps together form a loop that at least partially engages with and extends around a neck of the user, and wherein each of the pair of neck straps is received through the corresponding bottom slot from the pair of bottom slots and is secured to the bottom cover portion of the cover proximal to the second neck end; at least one filter element configured to be removably coupled to the mask body, such that the breathable gas passes through the at least one filter element before entering the breathable zone; wherein, in the donned configuration of the respirator: the mask body is disposed adjacent to and at least partially engages the head of the user;the yoke at least partially engages with and detachably attaches to the bottom cover portion of the cover; and the pair of neck straps are detachably connected to each other proximal to the corresponding first neck ends, such that the pair of neck straps form the loop that at least partially engages with and extends around the neck of the user; and wherein, in the drop-down configuration of the respirator: the yoke fully disconnects from the cover, such that the cover is slidable along the pair of head straps to move the mask body away from the head of the user; and the pair of neck straps remain detachably connected to each other proximal to the corresponding first neck ends, such that the loop at least partially engages with and extends around the neck of the user.

13. The respirator system of claim 12, wherein each of the pair of head straps comprises an elastomeric material, such that, in the donned configuration, each of the pair of head straps at least partially follows a contour of an outer surface of the cover opposite to the mask body.

14. The respirator system of claim 12, wherein the yoke comprises a pair of yoke slots corresponding to the pair of head straps and extending through the yoke, wherein each of the pair of head straps comprises a head securing loop at the second head end, such that the head securing loop secures the corresponding head strap to the corresponding yoke slot from the pair of yoke slots.

15. The respirator system of claim 14, wherein the yoke further comprises a central portion and a pair of end portions extending from opposing ends of the central portion, wherein each of the pair of end portions at least partially conforms to an outer surface of the bottom cover portion of the cover opposite to the mask body, wherein, in the donned configuration of the respirator, each of the pair of end portions at least partially engages with the outer surface of the bottom cover portion of the cover, and wherein each of the pair of end portions comprise a corresponding yoke slot from the pair of yoke slots.

16. The respirator system of claim 15, wherein the central portion of the yoke comprises a tab extending away from the cover and configured to be gripped by the user.

17. The respirator system of claim 15, wherein the central portion of the yoke further comprises a latch extending towards the cover, wherein the bottom cover portion further comprises an edgesection, and wherein the latch of the yoke is configured to be snap-fitted to the edge section of the bottom cover portion.

18. The respirator system of claim 12, wherein, in the donned configuration of the respirator, the yoke at least partially engages with each of the pair of neck straps, and wherein, in the dropdown configuration of respirator, the yoke fully disengages from each of the pair of neck straps.

19. The respirator system of claim 12, wherein the respirator further comprises a pair of buckles corresponding to the pair of head straps for attaching the pair of head straps to the headpiece, wherein each of the pair of buckles is fixedly attached to opposing ends of the headpiece, and wherein each of the pair of buckles is adjustably secured to the corresponding head strap from the pair of head straps proximal to the corresponding first head end, such that a length of each of the pair of head straps extending between the headpiece and the yoke is adjustable.

20. The respirator system of claim 12, wherein each of the pair of neck straps comprises a neck securing loop at the second neck end, such that the neck securing loop secures the corresponding neck strap to the corresponding bottom slot.

Images