Low-Profile Respirator Neck Component with Integrated Flow Generator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current powered air purifying respirators (PAPRs) are bulky, heavy, and uncomfortable for prolonged use, making them unsuitable for general public use, especially for individuals with weak or impaired respiratory systems, and lack effective solutions for everyday air pollution and hazardous conditions.
Innovation Solution
A low-profile breathing apparatus with a compact mask and neck component that includes a flow generator, filter, and climate control, designed for easy use and comfort, featuring elastomeric materials, adjustable airflow, and integrated sensors for improved usability and aesthetics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional PAPR systems are designed for professional industrial applications, then filtration effectiveness is improved, but device size and weight increase making them unsuitable for general public use
Solution Approach 1:
The PAPR system is divided into separate modular components: a reusable power unit with motor and battery, detachable filter elements, and a mask assembly. This segmentation allows the heavy power unit to be carried separately while only the lightweight mask and filter are worn on the face, reducing overall weight burden during use while maintaining complete filtration functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The air intake pathway is extended outward from the mask in a lateral dimension rather than incorporating all components within the mask itself. The power unit and motor are positioned away from the face in a separate carrying position, with air channels extending the breathing pathway externally, thus reducing facial bulk and weight while preserving filtration effectiveness.
2Reliability
If filter media efficiency is increased to provide better protection, then air purification is improved, but flow resistance increases making breathing difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The filtration system is segmented into multiple filter elements arranged in series within the air channel pathway. This segmentation allows the use of high-efficiency filter media while distributing the pressure drop across multiple stages, and enables easy replacement of individual filter elements without replacing the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates adjustable airflow control mechanisms that can dynamically regulate air flow rates based on user needs and filter conditions. This allows optimization of breathing ease while maintaining adequate filtration, and accommodates varying respiratory demands of different users.
3Volume of moving object
If PAPR systems are made compact for portability, then ease of carrying is improved, but functionality and protection level may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates compact wearable components (mask, filter elements) from the bulkier power unit containing motor and battery. The wearable portion remains compact and lightweight for portability, while the power unit can be carried separately in a bag or on the body, ensuring both compactness and complete protective functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The power unit and mask assembly are designed as universal modular components that can be used together in various configurations. The mask and filter elements serve multiple functions: filtration, sealing, and air channel integration. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, maintaining protection level while improving portability.
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 apparatus provides effective air filtration and comfort for prolonged use, suitable for everyday situations, improving user experience and protection against various air pollutants, particularly beneficial for the general public and those with respiratory impairments.
Implementation Method 1
a neck component, attached to said mask, adapted to substantially surround the back of the neck of said user, said neck component including a flow generator to receive unfiltered air from a surrounding environment, filter said unfiltered air, and, provide filtered air to said mask
Implementation Method 2
Each said engagement arrangement includes: at least one cooperating air channel on said mask and said neck component; at least one cooperating mating clip to releasably mate said mask and said neck component together
Data Source
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AI summary
A breathing apparatus (1), including a mask (2) and a neck component (3). The mask (2) is adapted to substantially surround at least the mouth or nostrils of a user. The neck component (3) is attached to said mask (2), and adapted to substantially surround the back of the neck of said user. The neck component (3) includes a flow generator to receive unfiltered air from a surrounding environment, filter said unfiltered air, and, provide filtered air to said mask (2). The breathing apparatus (1) has a 'low profile' appearance and is adapted to sit comfortably about the neck of the user.