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WO2019172853A1 - Ventilateur à test d'ajustement intégré pour masques faciaux - Google Patents

Ventilateur à test d'ajustement intégré pour masques faciaux Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2019172853A1
WO2019172853A1 PCT/SG2019/050131 SG2019050131W WO2019172853A1 WO 2019172853 A1 WO2019172853 A1 WO 2019172853A1 SG 2019050131 W SG2019050131 W SG 2019050131W WO 2019172853 A1 WO2019172853 A1 WO 2019172853A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
air
facemask
efficacy
sensor array
particulate matter
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Ceased
Application number
PCT/SG2019/050131
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Mikail LO
Ee Ho Gareth Tang
Wei Liang Jerome Lee
Wern Er ONG
Wee Chang LIEW
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
ST Engineering Innosparks Pte Ltd
Original Assignee
Innosparks Pte Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Innosparks Pte Ltd filed Critical Innosparks Pte Ltd
Publication of WO2019172853A1 publication Critical patent/WO2019172853A1/fr
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Ceased legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A62—LIFE-SAVING; FIRE-FIGHTING
    • A62B—DEVICES, APPARATUS OR METHODS FOR LIFE-SAVING
    • A62B18/00—Breathing masks or helmets, e.g. affording protection against chemical agents or for use at high altitudes or incorporating a pump or compressor for reducing the inhalation effort
    • A62B18/08—Component parts for gas-masks or gas-helmets, e.g. windows, straps, speech transmitters, signal-devices
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A62—LIFE-SAVING; FIRE-FIGHTING
    • A62B—DEVICES, APPARATUS OR METHODS FOR LIFE-SAVING
    • A62B18/00—Breathing masks or helmets, e.g. affording protection against chemical agents or for use at high altitudes or incorporating a pump or compressor for reducing the inhalation effort
    • A62B18/006—Breathing masks or helmets, e.g. affording protection against chemical agents or for use at high altitudes or incorporating a pump or compressor for reducing the inhalation effort with pumps for forced ventilation
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A62—LIFE-SAVING; FIRE-FIGHTING
    • A62B—DEVICES, APPARATUS OR METHODS FOR LIFE-SAVING
    • A62B9/00—Component parts for respiratory or breathing apparatus
    • A62B9/006—Indicators or warning devices, e.g. of low pressure, contamination
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A41—WEARING APPAREL
    • A41D—OUTERWEAR; PROTECTIVE GARMENTS; ACCESSORIES
    • A41D13/00—Professional, industrial or sporting protective garments, e.g. surgeons' gowns or garments protecting against blows or punches
    • A41D13/05—Professional, industrial or sporting protective garments, e.g. surgeons' gowns or garments protecting against blows or punches protecting only a particular body part
    • A41D13/11—Protective face masks, e.g. for surgical use, or for use in foul atmospheres

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a respirator mask, and more specifically, to a respirator mask with an active venting system and sensors to monitor levels of particulate matter in ambient and filtered air.
  • Air pollution can be defined as the presence of chemicals or compounds in the air at levels that can pose a health risk. High levels of air pollution can increase the Air Quality Index and cause detrimental changes to the quality of life. Air pollution occurs naturally from compounds such as radon and ozone and can also arise from biological origins (e.g. pollen and mold). In industrial societies, air pollution often occurs when substances such as airborne particulate matter (PM) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are introduced into the atmosphere from activities such as the combustion of fossil fuels.
  • PM airborne particulate matter
  • VOCs volatile organic compounds
  • AQI Air Quality Index
  • BAM Beta Attenuation Mass
  • Optical analysis involves a light emission source such as a laser or infra-red (IR) light emitting diode (LED) and an optical detector such as a semiconductor photodiode.
  • IR infra-red
  • LED light emitting diode
  • An algorithm estimates the size and concentration of the particulates based on the detector readings to give a value for the air quality.
  • concentration of particulate matter of a certain size is calculated using the formula:
  • the concentration is typically measured in pg/m 3 .
  • the typical sizes of particles of concern for AQI value are 1 .Opm (PM1 ), 2.5pm (PM2.5) and 10pm (PM10), although larger and smaller sizes can be detected and used in different applications.
  • a powered, air-purifying respirator can be worn to minimize exposure to ambient (unfiltered) air.
  • a PAPR includes a respirator in the form of a hood or a full face mask which takes ambient air and actively removes (filters) a portion of the particulate matter. The filtered air is then delivered to the face or mouth of the user. While effective, PAPR’s are generally impractical for widespread use. They are bulky and are usually limited to use in factories, industrial environments or areas with heavy smoke.
  • a more common type of protective equipment is a disposable particulate facemask or respirator.
  • N95 masks and respirators are commercially available as single-use disposable respirators.
  • The“N95” designation means that the respirator blocks at least 95 percent of very small (0.3 micron) test particles during testing.
  • These products can come with a one-way integrated valve (passive valve) to allow the exhaled air to escape.
  • Passive valve one-way integrated valve
  • these valves require a certain amount pressure to remove the warm and humid exhaled. Recent efforts have focused on improving the comfort and effectiveness of these respirators.
  • U.S. Patent Application No. 15/101 ,157 describes a respirator mask with a venting system.
  • a respiratory protection device includes a power source and blower to vent exhaled air from within the dead space of the mask. This removes heat, moisture and exhaled carbon dioxide from the interior space to keep the mask more cool, dry and comfortable.
  • U.S. Patent Application No. 1 1/223,440 describes a portable device that can administer a fit test on a ventilator or mask. Fit tests are usually carried out periodically to determine the correct type and size of mask to be donned by the user. However, the device is bulky and impractical for most applications. There are advantages to having a system that provides continuous or real-time fit assessment while the mask is being used. By monitoring fit in real time, the user can maintain an optimal level of protection by adjusting the facemask to improve fit. The user can also receive an alert if the facemask is not effective and requires replacement.
  • respirators offer some improvement over conventional respirators and facemasks, they have limitations. Accordingly, there is a need for an improved respirator.
  • the respirator should be comfortable and convenient for wide spread use while overcoming the limitations of conventional designs. It should include sensors to continuously monitor ambient air quality as well as efficacy and fit.
  • Embodiments of the invention include a venting system for monitoring facemask efficacy comprising (a) a power source, (b) a blower, (c) a processor, (d) a particulate matter sensor array, (e) one or more interior air channels that connect the particulate matter sensor array to an interior region of the facemask and (f) one or more exterior air channels that connect the particulate matter sensor array to an exterior region of the facemask.
  • the interior air channels can direct filtered air to the particulate matter sensor array to measure air quality of filtered air.
  • the exterior air channels can direct ambient air to the particulate matter sensor array to measure air quality of ambient air.
  • the auxiliary sensor(s) can measure pressure, temperature and/or humidity of filtered air and/or ambient air.
  • the processor can determine a value for efficacy of the facemask, also known as the fit factor.
  • the particulate matter sensor array is comprised of a first inlet air channel for filtered air, a second inlet air channel for ambient air, at least one light source, at least two light detectors and at least one outlet air channel.
  • a control valve can direct the flow of air through the interior air channels and the exterior air channels.
  • the particulate matter sensor array is comprised of an inlet air channel, a light source, a light detector and at least one outlet air channel.
  • Embodiments also include a method of determining efficacy of a facemask comprising steps of (a) directing air to a particulate matter sensor array integrated into the facemask, (b) distinguishing filtered air from ambient air, (c) measuring ambient air quality with the particulate matter sensor array, (d) measuring filtered air quality with the particulate matter sensor array and (e) calculating a value for efficacy of the facemask by comparing the ambient air quality with the filtered air quality.
  • One or more auxiliary sensors can collect data related to pressure, temperature and/or humidity to distinguish filtered air from ambient air.
  • the method can also include a step of identifying breathing patterns of a wearer by measuring pressure, temperature and/or humidity.
  • Auxiliary sensor(s) can measure pressure, temperature, humidity, fan speed, air flow battery power, power consumption and/or duration of use.
  • a user can be alerted if the value for efficacy of the facemask is equal or below a threshold.
  • a first aspect of the invention is a portable respirator with an active venting system to improve comfort and filtering.
  • a second aspect of the invention is a portable respirator with one or more sensors to measure the air quality index (AQI) of ambient air near the wearer.
  • AQI air quality index
  • a third aspect of the invention is a portable respirator with one or more sensors to measure the AQI of air that is filtered through the mask.
  • a fourth aspect of the invention is a portable respirator that alerts a wearer when the local ambient AQI reaches or exceeds a threshold.
  • a fifth aspect of the invention is a portable respirator that uses one or more sensors to monitor the fit and/or efficacy of the respirator.
  • a sixth aspect of the invention is a portable respirator that includes a processor and/or memory to collect and store data on air quality.
  • a seventh aspect of the invention is a portable respirator that communicates through one or more wireless connections with a smart device or computer.
  • An eighth aspect of the invention is a system to collect and aggregate data related to air quality from one or more respirator users.
  • FIG. 1 A depicts an active venting system.
  • FIG. 1 B depicts an active venting system affixed to a facemask.
  • FIG. 2A depicts the flow of air in an embodiment with the sensor array placed before the primary inlet of the ventilator.
  • FIG. 2B depicts the flow of air in an embodiment with the sensor array placed after the primary outlet of the ventilator.
  • FIG. 2C depicts the flow of air in an embodiment with the sensor array placed at a secondary outlet of the ventilator.
  • FIG. 2D depicts the flow of air in an embodiment with the sensor array positioned so that both exhaled and ambient air are directed to the sensor, driven by the inlet of the ventilator.
  • FIG. 2E depicts the flow of air in an embodiment with the sensor array positioned so that both exhaled and ambient air are directed to the sensor, driven by the outlet of the ventilator.
  • FIG. 3 depicts an embodiment wherein the flow of exhaled air and environmental air are directed toward the sensor array. It also depicts the sensor array working in conjunction with other sensors such as temperature and humidity sensors.
  • FIG. 4A depicts a sensor array showing the flow of the air from the inlet, through the sensor channel and towards the outlet.
  • FIG. 4B depicts a side profile of a sensor array and the position of the detector in relation to the light source and air flow.
  • FIG. 5A depicts an embodiment with a shared air channel for the exhaled air and ambient air leading to the sensor array.
  • FIG. 5B depicts an embodiment with separate air channels for the exhaled air and ambient air leading to the sensor array.
  • FIG. 6A depicts an arrangement of a sensor array with one light source and two detectors.
  • FIG. 6B depicts an arrangement of a sensor array with one light source, two detectors and a lens system.
  • FIG. 6C depicts an arrangement of a sensor array with one light source and two detectors. The beam of light is reflected off a mirror to align across the two detectors.
  • FIG. 6D depicts an arrangement of a sensor array with one light source and two detectors where a beam splitter splits the light to illuminate the air flowing past two detectors.
  • MCU Micro Controller Unit
  • Air Quality Index or“AQI” refers to one or more standards used by government agencies to communicate how polluted the air currently is or how polluted it is forecast to become.
  • efficacy refers to the effectiveness of the facemask while donned.
  • One aspect of the efficacy is the fit factor, which measures how well the mask is donned or positioned on the face to create a seal with the facemask. A poor quality seal can result from a mask that is not donned or positioned properly on the face, thus result in a lower efficacy. It can also result from an improper mask size.
  • Another aspect of efficacy is the filtering ability of the facemask. A mask that has lost its filtering ability (e.g. from previous use and/or structural loss) will also have a lower efficacy.
  • microcontrol unit refers to a small computer on a single integrated circuit.
  • a microcontroller typically includes one or more CPUs
  • processor cores along with memory and programmable input/output peripherals.
  • PCB printed circuit board
  • a respirator with a venting system presents advantages to conventional devices.
  • Conventional ventilators rely on pressure from the wearer to force air in and out of the mask cavity. This pressure can be ineffective and cause discomfort and potentially hypoxia to a wearer.
  • An active venting system can remove heat, moisture and exhaled carbon dioxide to keep the mask cool, dry and comfortable. In doing so, it can alleviate discomfort and improve air flow.
  • the invention (“apparatus”) includes an integrated active venting system that is portable and attachable to a facemask. It functions as an active venting system to expel exhaled air when attached to the mask. Second, it can detect the ambient air quality index (AQI) and warn the user to don a facemask if the AQI reaches or exceeds a threshold value. Third, while attached to the facemask, it can measure both the ambient AQI and the AQI of air in the dead space within the mask.
  • the active venting system is described as“integrated” because it forms a complete system with the facemask. Conventional methods of measuring AQI and conducting a fit test require additional, specialized equipment and methods, and can be destructive in nature (i.e. the facemask cannot be used after testing.
  • the efficacy or effectiveness of the seal and filtration of a facemask can thereafter be determined.
  • the fit factor can be calculated as the ratio of the concentration of particulate matter in ambient air with that of filtered air (i.e. air inside the dead space of the mask cavity). A higher ratio indicates a better seal and the higher efficacy of air filtration. As can be appreciated, a proper seal is necessary to protect the user by preventing the leakage of ambient unfiltered air into the mask.
  • the active venting system can be integrated with a particulate matter (PM) sensor array to enable the user to monitor the ambient air quality. This is achieved by leveraging the existing components of the active venting system including the fan, power source and microcontroller unit (MCU) to power and operate one or more sensor arrays.
  • the apparatus can be calibrated to various standards or standardized air particle testers, for example, Grimm, TSI and MetOne.
  • the apparatus can be also be configured to measure the concentration of particulate matter in the exhaled air while in operation as an active ventilation system by channeling some or all of the exhaled air toward a sensor within the active ventilation system.
  • the system can alert the user when respiratory protection is recommended or deemed necessary based on the AQI of ambient air. Through the use of indicator lights or bands, the user can be informed of this value and be advised to don the facemask if the level of airborne particulates is deemed potentially hazardous. For example, green lights can indicate low levels of pollution, yellow can indicate moderate levels and red can indicate hazardous levels.
  • the system can communicate with a mobile device to display the AQI to the user via, for example, a Bluetooth or Wi-Fi module. Other information can also be displayed such as the temperature, humidity, duration of mask use and battery life.
  • the user can define the hazardous threshold level at which he/she is alerted.
  • the mobile device can be used to change settings/parameters such as the AQI threshold levels or frequency of sensor readings to improve battery life.
  • the apparatus can be configured to measure the AQI of ambient air separately from air inside the mask body.
  • Auxiliary sensors that detect factors such as pressure, humidity and temperature sensors can be used in conjunction with the PM sensor to identify the breathing pattern of the user.
  • the apparatus can identify when the user inhales and exhales, thus distinguishing between the flow of air from the mask body (i.e. filtered air) and ambient air. This enables determination of the efficacy and fit factor of the mask.
  • the apparatus can calculate the efficacy of the respirator. If the readings indicate that the respirator is not effective, it can alert the wearer and offer troubleshooting instructions to improve the fit of the respirator. It can also track the effective lifetime of the respirator and advise the user when to replace the facemask.
  • the apparatus can also collect and aggregate data from users with other data such as time and location.
  • the data can be compiled and represented as a map of the air quality of the locality.
  • a mobile device application can alert the user when he/she is entering an area with poor air quality based on the data gathered from other users.
  • the apparatus can alert a user without requiring direct analysis of ambient air.
  • Another embodiment relates to the calibration of the PM sensors to ensure that the AQI readings are accurate. While it is common to calibrate a device
  • auxiliary sensors can include a power meter, fan speed (RPM) sensor and/or a flow meter.
  • RPM fan speed
  • a flow meter such as a thermal anemometer measures the flow rate of the air within the air channel and calculates the volume of air measured by the sensor array. This information can be coupled with the RPM sensor of the fan and a pressure sensor to retrieve a more accurate calculation of the flow rate.
  • the user is instructed, through the mobile device, on a series of steps to maintain and calibrate the sensors with the surrounding environmental air when provided with the local AQI.
  • FIG. 1A depicts a venting system 10. It can be used with a facemask to expel exhaled air that is warm, humid and high in carbon dioxide from the dead space within the mask.
  • the venting system is typically driven by blower/fan such as a micro centrifugal fan.
  • blowers usually have one primary inlet and one primary outlet.
  • An alternative design can include one primary inlet, one secondary inlet and one primary outlet.
  • FIG. 1 B depicts the venting system 10 attached to a facemask 20.
  • the facemask can be an“N95” mask or one of similar functionality and design.
  • the venting system creates a pressure difference to force air (i.e. exhaled air) out of the mask body. Ambient air is filtered as it enters through the mesh portion of the mask body.
  • a venting system can constantly drive air out of the mask body.
  • an active venting system can operate based on the breathing cycle of a wearer. It can expel air from inside the mask body during the exhalation phase of the wearer. During the inhalation phase, it can intermittently switch off.
  • Components of active venting systems can include a fan, a power source and a printed circuit board (PCB).
  • the invention integrates a detector with an active venting system (i.e. integrated venting system) to monitor air quality and mask efficacy.
  • One or more sensors can be arranged in different configurations to analyze ambient air and filtered air.
  • FIG. 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 2E and 3 depict the application of different arrangements of sensors and air flow.
  • An active venting system and a particulate matter (PM) sensor array are configured to measure the air quality index (AQI) of filtered air and/or ambient air.
  • AQI air quality index
  • air exhaled by a wearer has the same AQI of air that enters through the filter of the mask for practical purposes. While inhaling and exhaling will naturally remove some particulate matter, the amount is not significant, particularly because of the amount of dead air space in the nasal cavity and trachea.
  • a sensor array 30 is positioned before the primary inlet 16 of the fan 11.
  • the differential pressure created by the fan draws air into the sensor channel toward the sensor array 30. Air is drawn through the sensor array 30 to the fan 11 and is expelled from the device through the primary outlet 18.
  • the system can include a micro controller unit (MCU) 12, a power source 13, a Bluetooth or Wi-Fi module 14, and auxiliary sensors 15.
  • MCU micro controller unit
  • the sensor can measure the AQI of the ambient air when the device is detached from the facemask 20. When it is attached to the facemask and used as an active venting system, exhaled air is directed into the sensor channel and it measures the AQI of exhaled (i.e. filtered) air.
  • FIG. 2B depicts a similar arrangement of the components.
  • the sensor array 30 is positioned after the primary outlet 18 where the fan 11 generates a positive pressure differential. This causes some or all of the ejected air towards the sensor array 30.
  • the sensor can measure the AQI of ambient air when it is detached from a facemask. It can measure the AQI of exhaled air (i.e. filtered air) when it is attached to a facemask 20.
  • FIG. 2C depicts the apparatus with a secondary inlet 17.
  • the sensor array 30 positioned before the secondary inlet 17 of the fan 11.
  • air is drawn into the secondary inlet 17 through the sensor array 30. Air can be purged from the device through the fan 11 and out of the primary outlet 18.
  • the device is controlled by an MCU 12 and includes a power source 13.
  • a Bluetooth or Wi-Fi module 14 can enable communication with a mobile or other device.
  • auxiliary sensors 15 such as fan RPM monitors, thermal anemometers and/or pressure monitors, can be used to calculate the flow rate of air passing through the sensor channel. These sensors can also be used for calibration.
  • FIG. 2D depicts a configuration with the sensor array 30 positioned before one of the inlets of the fan. This can be either the primary inlet 16 (as shown in FIG.
  • a secondary inlet 17 (as shown in FIG. 3).
  • At least a portion of the exhaled air is directed to the sensor array through one or more air channels 16A.
  • ambient air is directed to the sensor array 30 through one or more air channels 16B.
  • Air can be driven through the sensor channels by the differential pressure generated by the fan’s primary inlet 16 and expelled via the primary outlet 18.
  • Other sensors 15 can distinguish between exhaled and environmental air reaching the sensor array.
  • a temperature and humidity sensor can be placed along the channel toward the sensor. Exhaled air can be identified by higher temperature and higher levels of humidity.
  • the MCU 12 can use this data to identify breathing patterns and distinguish ambient air from exhaled (i.e. filtered) air.
  • FIG. 2E depicts a configuration with the sensor array 30 positioned after the outlet of the fan 11. It functions similar to the configuration depicted in FIG. 2D with some differences. A portion of the exhaled air is directed to an air channel leading to the sensor array. The air flowing from the primary outlet generates a pressure differential along a secondary channel 19 which draws ambient air to the sensor array. As described above, auxiliary sensors 15 can distinguish ambient air from exhaled air.
  • FIG. 3 depicts a configuration in which the ambient AQI and exhaled air AQI are measured independently.
  • An important aspect is the ability of the active venting system to analyze both exhaled air and ambient air. Distinguishing exhaled air from ambient air is necessary to measure efficacy and/or fit of the respirator.
  • the fan 11 pulls air into two inlets, each on a different side of the fan. One side of the fan can be secured to the facemask 20 to draw exhaled air away from the mask through a one way valve on the mask.
  • An air channel 39 can create a path for air to flow toward the secondary inlet 17 of the fan. Exhaled air can be directed to different positions in the active venting system.
  • the airflow is depicted wherein at least some of the exhaled air is directed through a secondary inlet 17A while ambient air is directed through the secondary inlet 17B.
  • the sensor array can separately detect the AQI of both the ambient air and the filtered air before it is expelled through the primary outlet 18.
  • the system can use auxiliary sensors 15 to distinguish between exhaled and ambient air during operation.
  • FIG. 4A depicts a cross-sectional view of some components used to direct air through the sensor.
  • the sensor detects the presence of particles in the air as they disrupt a light source 31 (e.g. IR or laser). Particles scatter the light which is measured by the detector 32.
  • the detector 32 is located perpendicular to the flow of air 38 and direction of the light source.
  • Air enters the air inlet 36 and flows through the air channel 38 by pressure generated from a fan 34 near the air outlet 37.
  • a set of lenses focus light over the detector to increase the light intensity and thus the intensity of light that is scattered.
  • FIG. 4B depicts a side profile of a sensor array and shows it in relation to the light source.
  • FIG. 5A depicts a cross-sectional view of the active venting system 10 secured to a face mask 20.
  • it uses a single PM sensor array 30 to measure the AQI of both exhaled air and ambient (i.e. environmental) air.
  • a shared air channel 39 for airflow includes an inlet for exhaled (i.e. filtered) air 17A and an inlet for ambient air 17B.
  • the detector can distinguish between the exhaled air and the ambient air with an airway selector 111.
  • the airway selector can be a two-way control valve controlled by the MCU 12.
  • the MCU can intermittently alternate air intake between ambient air and exhaled air so that each is analyzed separately.
  • the valve can be spring-controlled or a one-way valve that responds to inhalation and exhalation (i.e. changes in pressure).
  • the valve can alternate air intake between ambient air and exhaled according to the breathing pattern of the user.
  • a pressure sensor can detect changes in the pressure across the fan inlet 11 to identify breathing patterns of the user.
  • Auxiliary sensors 15 can also identify the source of air that is being examined. For example, a combination of humidity and/or temperature sensors can identify exhaled air based on its higher temperature and/or humidity.
  • FIG. 5B depicts an alternative configuration with two distinct air channels leading to the sensor array. Exhaled air enters from the inside of the mask body 17A. Likewise, ambient air enters from outside the mask body 17B.
  • a pressure sensor can detect changes in the pressure across the fan inlet 11 to identify breathing patterns of the user.
  • Auxiliary sensors 15 can also identify the source of air (ambient or filtered) that is analyzed.
  • FIG. 6A depicts a configuration of a PM sensor array with a single light source 31 that illuminates the air flowing 38 past the sensors.
  • the sensors measure the extent that the light is scattered by particulate matter.
  • a light source 31 directs a parallel beam of light that traverses over the two detectors (32A, 32B).
  • a first sensor 32A can measure the AQI of exhaled air 38A and a second sensor 32B can measure the AQI of ambient air 38B.
  • the air within the mask body and the ambient air can be continuously monitored because there is no disruption of air flow to the sensors.
  • the sensors can work in conjunction with auxiliary sensors 15 to monitor other characteristics including temperature and humidity. Air from the two sources is then released into the environment through the outlet 37.
  • FIG. 6B depicts a configuration with two sensors and a lens system.
  • a single light source illuminates the air flowing 38 past the sensors.
  • a first lens 33A focuses light onto a first detector 32A.
  • a second lens 33B focuses light onto a second detector 32B. This type of arrangement of lenses and detectors in series can be repeated over multiple detectors using one light source with multiple lenses.
  • FIG. 6C depicts a similar configuration with a mirror 310 that reflects light across multiple detectors.
  • Detectors can be positioned between the light source and the mirror (not shown) and/or after the mirror. This configuration can maximise the space within the active ventilation device as sensor arrays are generally small in relation to other respirator components.
  • a concave mirror can be used to focus light across a detector.
  • a combination of mirrors and lenses can be used to focus light across multiple detectors.
  • FIG. 6D depicts a configuration where a beam splitter 311 is used to split light from a single light source 31 to illuminate the air (38A, 38B) flowing past two or more detectors (32A, 32B).
  • the beam splitter can be used to split the beam at the required angles.
  • Multiple beam splitters can be used to split the light source further as required.
  • the air then flows out of a single outlet 37. As with the previous examples, this can be used in conjunction with other optical technologies to maximize the space within the active ventilation device.
  • FIG. 5A depicts the active venting system 10 secured to a face mask 20.
  • the system includes the following components:
  • processor i.e. micro controller unit
  • a particulate matter (PM) sensor array 30 comprised of the following:
  • a plastic casing houses and encapsulate the components.
  • the air channels are built as structures in the casing.
  • the two air channels (one from inside the mask and one from the environment) are connected to the inlet air channel of the PM sensor array through the two-way control valve. This valve can be controlled by the processor. Air flowing through this shared air channel is driven primarily by the negative pressure generated by secondary inlet of the blower that is drawing air out from the outlet of the PM sensor array.
  • a temperature, pressure and/or humidity sensor can be positioned in the air channel connected to the interior of the mask before the two-way control valve. These sensor(s) can detect the breathing pattern of the user. When the user exhales, the pressure, humidity and temperature increases and causes the two-way valve to open the air channel towards the PM sensor array. This also closes the connection to the air channel leading to the environment. The AQI of the air that flows into the PM sensor array is recorded as exhaled air and can be used to calculate the efficacy of the mask.
  • the pressure, humidity and the temperature decreases and causes the control valve to close the air channel connected to the inside of the mask.
  • the air channel leading to the environment is opened and the AQI of the air that flows into the PM sensor array is recorded as ambient air.
  • the two-way valve will continue to alternate between opening and closing either air channel to measure the efficacy of the mask.
  • the system can use a single light source and light detector to measure two separate readings of AQI.
  • Conventional methods of measuring filtering capabilities of respirators require multiple light sources and detectors. As such, less space is required for this setup, and less power is required. This provides a lighter, more compact device that can consumes less energy.
  • FIG. 5B also depicts the active venting system 10 secured to a face mask 20.
  • the system is comprised of:
  • processor i.e. micro controller unit
  • a PM sensor array comprised of:
  • auxiliary sensors e.g. humidity, temperature, etc.
  • a plastic casing houses and encapsulate the components.
  • the air channels can be structural portions of the casing.
  • the configuration of the PM sensor array is similar to that depicted in FIG. 6A, 6B and 6C.
  • a single light source illuminates the air flowing across both detectors.
  • One air channel leads from the interior of the mask to one of the inlets of the PM sensor array which flows over one light detector. This detector reads the AQI of exhaled air.
  • Another separate air channel leads from the environment to the other air channel, which flows over the other light detector. This detector reads the AQI of the ambient air and uses this reading to calculate the efficacy of the mask.
  • These two air channels eventually connect to the outlet air channel of the PM sensor array.
  • the negative pressure generated by the secondary inlet of the blower drives the airflow.
  • auxiliary sensors can be positioned to detect the breathing pattern of the user, which can be used to create a more accurate reading of the AQI of the exhaled air, and ultimately the efficacy of the mask.
  • the processor can determine the likely cause of a decrease in efficacy. For example, a gradual decrease in efficacy can result as a facemask deteriorates with regular use and/or reaches an estimated effective duration of use (i.e. capacity). A sudden decrease in efficacy is likely caused by a break in the facemask seal. Similarly, an improper fit can cause erratic efficacy values.

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  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Pulmonology (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Business, Economics & Management (AREA)
  • Emergency Management (AREA)
  • Respiratory Apparatuses And Protective Means (AREA)

Abstract

La présente invention concerne un système de ventilation pour surveiller l'efficacité d'un masque facial. Le système de ventilation comprend un réseau de capteurs de matières particulaires ; un ou plusieurs canaux d'air intérieur qui relient le réseau de capteurs de matières particulaires à une région intérieure du masque facial afin de mesurer la qualité de l'air filtré ; un ou plusieurs canaux d'air extérieur qui relient le réseau de capteurs de matières particulaires à une région extérieure du masque facial afin de mesurer la qualité de l'air ambiant ; et un processeur déterminant une valeur pour l'efficacité du masque facial. Le réseau de capteurs de matières particulaires comprend au moins un canal d'air d'entrée, au moins une source de lumière, au moins un détecteur de lumière et au moins un canal d'air de sortie.
PCT/SG2019/050131 2018-03-09 2019-03-08 Ventilateur à test d'ajustement intégré pour masques faciaux Ceased WO2019172853A1 (fr)

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US62/640,610 2018-03-09

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Cited By (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2021108779A1 (fr) * 2019-11-27 2021-06-03 De Nova Technology Détecteur de gaz pour masque facial
CN114376286A (zh) * 2020-10-20 2022-04-22 中移物联网有限公司 一种智能口罩与体温检测方法
WO2023150499A1 (fr) * 2022-02-04 2023-08-10 William Maxwell Masque conçu pour l'entretien de la pression
US20230256271A1 (en) * 2022-02-14 2023-08-17 XCMR Inc. Symmetrical flow respirator
US11793422B2 (en) 2017-09-01 2023-10-24 3M Innovative Properties Company Sensing system for respirator
EP4080189A4 (fr) * 2019-09-24 2023-11-01 Valeo Automotive Air Conditioning Hubei Co., Ltd. Capteur de matière particulaire et ensemble climatiseur de véhicule

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WO2016200109A1 (fr) * 2015-06-08 2016-12-15 재단법인 다차원 스마트 아이티 융합시스템 연구단 Masque intelligent apte à surveiller la qualité de l'air inhalé par un utilisateur
CN106823181A (zh) * 2017-01-20 2017-06-13 苏州倍安电子科技有限公司 头戴式防病毒呼吸器

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2016200109A1 (fr) * 2015-06-08 2016-12-15 재단법인 다차원 스마트 아이티 융합시스템 연구단 Masque intelligent apte à surveiller la qualité de l'air inhalé par un utilisateur
CN106823181A (zh) * 2017-01-20 2017-06-13 苏州倍安电子科技有限公司 头戴式防病毒呼吸器

Cited By (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US11793422B2 (en) 2017-09-01 2023-10-24 3M Innovative Properties Company Sensing system for respirator
EP4080189A4 (fr) * 2019-09-24 2023-11-01 Valeo Automotive Air Conditioning Hubei Co., Ltd. Capteur de matière particulaire et ensemble climatiseur de véhicule
WO2021108779A1 (fr) * 2019-11-27 2021-06-03 De Nova Technology Détecteur de gaz pour masque facial
US11738163B2 (en) 2019-11-27 2023-08-29 Virushield, Inc. Gas detector for a face mask
CN114376286A (zh) * 2020-10-20 2022-04-22 中移物联网有限公司 一种智能口罩与体温检测方法
WO2023150499A1 (fr) * 2022-02-04 2023-08-10 William Maxwell Masque conçu pour l'entretien de la pression
US20230256271A1 (en) * 2022-02-14 2023-08-17 XCMR Inc. Symmetrical flow respirator

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