Goggle De-misting System Using Pneumatic Gas Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mask systems, including goggles, suffer from fogging and condensation issues due to exhaled breath, which can impair visibility and situational awareness, especially in critical environments like aviation, and require additional certification and skilled alterations for de-misting solutions.
Innovation Solution
A de-misting system comprising a supply connector, de-mist tube, and diffuser that connects to the goggles to deliver a de-misting gas, utilizing existing breathing gas flows to prevent fogging and condensation, with optional features like check valves and vents for controlled gas flow and exhaust, allowing for retrofitting without altering the mask.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If passive anti-fog systems are used in mask systems, then the system structure remains simple, but fogging and condensation still occur on the lens disrupting visibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies pneumatic principles by introducing a de-misting gas flow system that uses gas pressure to actively clear condensation and fog from the lens interior. A gas source connected through tubing delivers controlled gas flow across the lens surface, utilizing pneumatic force to prevent and remove fogging, thereby improving visibility reliability while accepting increased system complexity through added pneumatic components.
2Reliability
If de-misting gas flow is increased to improve de-misting effectiveness, then fogging is better prevented, but gas consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control of the de-misting gas flow system by allowing adjustment of gas flow rate based on operational conditions. The system can modulate the gas flow to match the actual de-misting requirements, increasing flow when heavy fogging occurs and reducing flow when conditions are clear, thereby maintaining de-misting effectiveness while optimizing gas consumption and reducing unnecessary substance loss.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The de-misting system effectively reduces or eliminates fogging and condensation on goggles, ensuring clear vision and safe operation in various applications without the need for re-certification or extensive modifications, utilizing existing gas flows for efficient operation.
Implementation Method 1
the diffuser supplies the de-misting gas with a laminar flow across an interior surface of the goggle lens
Implementation Method 2
The vent includes a check valve
Data Source
AI summary
A de-misting system for goggles includes a supply connector, a de-mist tube, and a diffuser. The supply connector is connectable to a de-misting gas source, and the de-mist tube is in fluid communication with the supply connector. The diffuser is in fluid communication with the de-mist tube, and the diffuser may be coupled to an orifice of the goggles to supply a de-misting gas to an interior volume of the goggles.