Respirator Mask Filter Adapter for Standard Filters
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Solution Overview
Problem
The M50 Joint Service General Purpose Masks have unique, non-standard filter connections, making them expensive and impractical for using commercially available standard particulate filters like N95 or P100 for protection against airborne pathogens such as COVID-19 and other viruses.
Innovation Solution
A filter adapter with mask locking tabs, an inlet port gasket, a valve ring, and filter locking tabs that allows the M50 respirator to accommodate commercial N95 or P100 filters, creating an air-tight seal with the mask and filter.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If M50 masks utilize nonstandard filters with unique connections, then protection against CBRN agents is achieved, but cost increases and compatibility with commercial standard filters is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs an adapter as an intermediary component that bridges the M50 mask's unique bayonet connection interface and the standard N95/P100 filter interface. This adapter allows the mask to maintain its specialized protection capabilities while gaining compatibility with commercially available standard filters, thereby resolving the contradiction between reliability and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution segments the filtering system into three distinct components: the M50 mask, the adapter, and the standard filter. This segmentation allows each component to maintain its specialized characteristics while working together as an integrated system, enabling the mask to use standard filters without compromising its protection capabilities.
2Adaptability or versatility
If M50 masks use nonstandard filters, then unique capabilities are provided, but cost effectiveness decreases for protecting against airborne illnesses
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter provides universality by enabling the M50 mask to function with both its original nonstandard filters and standard N95/P100 filters. This multi-functionality allows the mask to maintain its unique capabilities for CBRN protection while also being cost-effective for protecting against common airborne illnesses using widely available standard filters.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter enables the use of disposable standard filters (N95/P100) which are significantly cheaper than specialized nonstandard filters. While the mask itself is a durable investment, the filters can be replaced with inexpensive standard options for routine protection against airborne illnesses, improving cost effectiveness.
3Ease of manufacture
If standard N95 or P100 filters are used directly with M50 masks, then cost is reduced, but proper connection and sealing cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter serves as a mediator that ensures proper connection and sealing between the M50 mask and standard filters. It includes sealing surfaces and engagement mechanisms that guarantee an airtight connection, thereby maintaining reliability while enabling the use of cost-effective standard filters.
Data Source
AI summary
A filter adaptor is provided for a respirator that allows the respirator to accommodate filters that have a different connection interface than the filter connection on the respirator. The adaptor includes a body having a first surface and an opposite second surface and defines a through hole. Mask locking tabs on the first surface engage with a complementary bayonet attachment the respirator. A first wall on the first surface and an inlet port gasket thereon nests within a complementary inlet port on the respirator to form an air-tight seal between the first wall and the inlet port. A valve ring on the first surface of the body engages an inlet valve on the respirator. A second wall on the second surface includes filter locking tabs that engage with a complementary filter opening of a filter. A filter gasket around the second wall forms an air-tight seal between the filter opening and the adaptor.