Firefighting Hood Filter Layer Segmentation for Reduced Neck Gaps
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flame-resistant hoods suffer from poor fit and increased preparation time due to the low elasticity of filter layers, leading to gaps and reduced protection, and existing solutions compromise filtering effectiveness or manufacturing complexity.
Innovation Solution
The filter layer is divided into sections with sealed connections, allowing better adaptation to the wearer's shape, and a collar area separates from the jacket collar for a tight seal, combined with elastic tension zones for a comfortable fit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the filter layer is made less elastic to improve filtering effectiveness, then particle filtration is improved, but the hood fit and comfort deteriorate due to large gaps around the neck
Solution Approach 1:
The filter layer is divided into multiple filter sections (first filter section, second filter section, etc.) that are connected to each other. This segmentation allows the filter layer to better adapt to the complex three-dimensional shape of the hood while maintaining filtering effectiveness through sealed connections between sections.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the filter layer have different properties - the filter sections provide filtration in areas requiring particle blocking, while the connection regions use sealed joints to maintain both filtration and adaptability. The outer support layer also has varying elasticity in different zones to balance fit and filtration.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the filter layer is sewn or quilted to backing layers to ensure stable bond, then layer stability is improved, but openings are created in the filter layer allowing particles to pass through
Solution Approach 1:
A sealing element acts as an intermediary between the filter sections and backing layers, providing the necessary bond stability without creating openings in the filter layer. The sealing element transfers the bonding function away from the filter material itself, allowing the filter to remain intact while achieving stable layer attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter layer is constructed as a continuous, flexible membrane that is sealed at connections rather than sewn. This thin film approach maintains the integrity of the filter material while providing the necessary stability through sealed joints that flex with the hood's three-dimensional shape.
3Ease of operation
If the hood is made loose-fitting to allow easy donning, then ease of operation is improved, but preparation time increases due to excessive size requiring adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The hood incorporates elastic tension zones and adjustable fastening elements that allow the structure to transition from a loose state during donning to a tight, customized fit during use. This dynamic adjustment capability enables quick initial donning followed by rapid optimization of the fit.
Solution Approach 2:
The hood design allows for parameter changes in fit and tension through adjustable fastening mechanisms and elastic elements. Users can modify the tightness and configuration of the hood after initial donning, optimizing both comfort and protection without requiring complete removal and redoning.
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
This design minimizes preparation time and ensures effective protection by adapting to the body shape, reducing gaps and improving comfort while maintaining filtering efficiency and ease of use.
Implementation Method 1
These layers prevent the substances, which typically consist of fine particles in the millimeter and micrometer range, from penetrating the hood and contaminating the wearer's skin
Implementation Method 2
It consists of an elastic base material to which a protective film is selectively bonded in strips. The protective film is cut larger than the base material, allowing the base material to stretch without mechanically stressing the protective film
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a firefighting hood having at least one outer carrier layer (5) and at least one inner carrier layer (7), wherein a filter layer (6) for filtering particles from the air is arranged between the outer carrier layer (5) and the inner carrier layer (7). The invention addresses the problem of providing a firefighting hood that allows as short a preparation time as possible while protecting the wearer effectively. This is achieved in that the filter layer (6) has at least two interconnected filter blanks (6a, 6b), which are stitched together at least partially via at least one filter seam (6c), and in that the connection between the filter blanks (6a, 6b) is at least partially sealed off, wherein the outer carrier layer (5) has, at least in the collar region (2), in the unloaded state, a smaller cut than the filter layer (6).