Remote Controller for Powered Air Purifying Respirator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air purifying respirators, such as those used in welding, face challenges in adjusting operating parameters like volumetric air flow and auto-darkening filter settings while the user is wearing the helmet, especially when vision is restricted and hands are gloved, and there is a concern about power supply depletion during tasks.
Innovation Solution
A remote controller that allows adjustment of respirator parameters with real-time display on the helmet's vision panel, enabling adjustments during use and providing information on air filter condition and battery life, which can be wirelessly communicated and attached to clothing or tools, facilitating easy operation even with gloved hands.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional controller with combined display and adjustment controls is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation deteriorates when vision is restricted and hands are gloved
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is separated into two distinct components: a remote controller for adjustment and a display integrated into the vision panel. This segmentation allows the user to adjust parameters remotely while viewing information through the vision panel, solving the problem of gloved hand operation and restricted vision.
Solution Approach 2:
The remote controller acts as an intermediary device that transmits control signals to the helmet without requiring direct manipulation of controls near the user's face. This intermediary approach enables operation with gloved hands while maintaining access to parameter information through the integrated display.
2Adaptability or versatility
If parameters are adjusted before donning the helmet, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability deteriorates as parameters cannot be changed during use
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static parameter settings (fixed before use) to dynamic parameter adjustment (changeable during use). The remote controller enables real-time modification of operating parameters while the integrated display provides immediate feedback, allowing adaptation to changing work conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated display in the vision panel provides immediate visual feedback to the user when parameters are adjusted via the remote controller. This feedback mechanism confirms parameter changes in real-time, enabling adaptive control during operation without requiring the user to remove the helmet or refer to external displays.
3Loss of information
If the display is integrated into the vision panel, then the loss of information is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The display is merged with the vision panel, creating an integrated information presentation system. This combination ensures that all parameter information and status indicators are visible through the same interface the user relies on for primary vision, eliminating information loss that would occur with separate external displays.
Solution Approach 2:
The vision panel serves dual functions: providing primary vision (especially in welding applications) and displaying operational parameters and status information. This multi-functionality reduces information loss by presenting all critical data through a single universal interface that the user is already focused on.
4Reliability
If power supply status is monitored with remote display, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates continuous monitoring of power supply status with immediate visual feedback displayed in the vision panel. This feedback mechanism alerts the user to declining battery levels or power issues in real-time, allowing proactive management of power resources and preventing unexpected shutdowns during critical operations.
Data Source
AI summary
A personal powered air respirator, for example a welding or spraying helmet (10), includes a remote controller (30) for adjusting one or more operating parameters of the helmet and a means of displaying information regarding said parameter in, on or adjacent the interior of the vision panel (12) of the helmet. The invention allows for convenient adjustment in use. The remote controller is adapted to clothing, such as belt, glove or pocket, or may be incorporated in equipment for use with the helmet.