Breathing Mask Integrated Display for Hazardous Environments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Workers in hazardous environments, such as miners and first responders, face reduced visibility and loss of situation awareness when using traditional breathing apparatuses, which impede their ability to operate safely in toxic and explosive conditions.
Innovation Solution
A self-contained breathing apparatus mask with a visor and integrated wireless communication device and display, allowing users to view information and their surroundings simultaneously, featuring a non-conductive housing, electronic display, and sensor modules, including a processor for rendering data and establishing communication links.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional breathing apparatus mask is used, then the user is protected from toxic and explosive environments, but the user experiences reduced visibility and loss of situation awareness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the breathing apparatus mask with a display device and wireless communication system, merging protective functionality with information display capabilities. The display is integrated into the mask structure, allowing simultaneous protection and situation awareness enhancement through combined functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The mask system performs multiple functions: it provides respiratory protection from toxic environments while simultaneously displaying communication messages, sensor data, and situation awareness information. The wireless communication device enables both communication and data display functions within a single integrated system.
2Loss of information
If a display device is added to the breathing apparatus mask, then situation awareness is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides functionality into separate modules: a wireless communication device for receiving messages, a display device for showing information, and a breathing apparatus for protection. Each component performs its specific function independently, allowing for easier maintenance and reduced overall complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The processor acts as an intermediary between the wireless communication device and the display, managing data flow and rendering information appropriately. This intermediary component simplifies the integration complexity by handling communication protocols and display rendering separately from the breathing apparatus functionality.
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
Enhances visibility and situation awareness for users by providing critical information and sensor data through the mask, improving safety and operational effectiveness in toxic and explosive environments.
Implementation Method 1
the adjustable focusing device may be an adjustable electrowetting lens device
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments provide a self contained breathing apparatus mask including a visor, a wireless communication device configured to receive information, and a display connected to the wireless communication device and configured to display the received information to a user wearing the mask. The display may be positioned on the breathing apparatus mask such that the user may simultaneously see the display and look through the visor.