Patent Grant
12017097
The invention concerns a blower device for a respiratory protection system.
A blower device for a respiratory protection system, with a fan for generating an airflow and with at least one filter element that is configured to be flowed through by the airflow, has already been proposed.
The objective of the invention is in particular to provide a generic device with improved characteristics regarding a compactness and a comfort. The objective is achieved according to the invention by the features of patent claim 1 while advantageous implementations and further developments of the invention may be gathered from the subclaims.
The invention is based on a blower device for a respiratory protection system, with a fan for generating an airflow and with at least one filter element that is configured to be flowed through by the airflow.
It is proposed that the fan is arranged at least partly beside the at least one filter element, wherein the airflow is deflected between the fan and the filter element. Preferably the filter element and the fan are arranged in a common housing. Preferentially the housing forms defined ducts for guiding the airflow. Preferably the airflow between the fan and the filter element is deflected by at least 50°, preferentially by at least 90°, preferably by at least 140° and particularly preferably by at least 180°. The blower device is in particular implemented by a compact blower device. The blower device is in particular configured to be worn on the body, for example on the back and/or on the hip.
By a “blower device” is in particular, in this context, a device to be understood which is configured for an active generation of an airflow for supplying a user with breathing air. The blower device is in particular configured, in an operation, for feeding the airflow to a mouth protection device of the respiratory protection system. The blower device is preferentially connected with the mouth protection device of the respiratory protection system via at least one breathing air supply line. Preferably the blower device is configured, in an operation, for suctioning air from an environment, for purifying, in particular filtering, the air and for feeding the purified air to a user actively, in particular via the mouth protection device. Preferably the blower device is configured for generating an active airflow. The blower device is in particular configured for generating a positive-pressure airflow. The fan is in particular, in an operation, configured for an active suctioning of air from an environment and for an active transport of the air to the mouth protection device of the respiratory protection system. The fan is in particular implemented by an axial fan and/or radial fan. By a “filter element” is in particular, in this context, an element to be understood which is configured, in an operation, for a filtering of the airflow. For this purpose the filter element preferably comprises a filter, which is in an operation flowed through by the airflow. Preferentially the airflow flows through the filter of the filter element completely. The filter element is in particular configured for separating off particles, in particular suspended matter, from the airflow. Herein different filters are conceivable which are deemed expedient by someone skilled in the art. Preferably the filter of the filter element is in particular implemented by a suspended-matter filter. Preferably the filter is embodied as a depth filter or cake filter, in particular as a lamellate filter.
By “the fan being arranged at least partly beside the at least one filter element” is in particular to be understood, in this context, that, in a direction that is perpendicular to a main extension plane of the fan, the fan is free from a complete cover by the filter element. Preferentially a normal vector of the main extension plane of the fan, which extends through a geometric center of the fan, is free of an intersection point with the filter element. Preferably the fan and the filter element are arranged side by side in a main extension plane of the blower device. Preferentially, viewed perpendicularly to the main extension plane of the blower device, the fan and the filter element are implemented to be at least substantially free, in particular completely free, of a mutual covering. By a “main extension plane” of a structural unit is in particular a plane to be understood which is parallel to a largest side face of a smallest imaginary rectangular cuboid just still completely enclosing the structural unit, and which in particular extends through the center point of the rectangular cuboid. “At least substantially” is in particular to mean, in this context, that a deviation from a given value is in particular less than 25%, preferably less than 10% and particularly preferably less than 5% of the given value.
By the “airflow being deflected between the fan and the filter element” is in particular to be understood, in this context, that in an operation of the blower device the airflow changes its direction on its way between the filter element and the fan. The “direction” of the airflow is in particular to mean, in this context, an averaged movement direction of the particles of the airflow in a point. Preferably a guide duct is arranged between the filter element and the fan, which is configured for guiding the airflow, wherein the guide duct is configured for a defined deflection of the airflow. Preferentially the guide duct forms a deflection between the filter element and the fan. The deflection may, for example, be effected in the shape of a curve, a bending, a kink, or the like. Preferably an inflow axis and/or an inflow direction of the airflow into the guide duct is essentially different and/or substantially offset from an outflow axis and/or an outflow direction of the airflow out of the guide duct. “Configured” is in particular to mean specifically programmed, designed and/or equipped. By an object being configured for a certain function is in particular to be understood that the object fulfills and/or executes said certain function in at least one application state and/or operation state.
The implementation according to the invention in particular enables providing an advantageously compact, in particular flat, blower device. It is in particular possible to do without a direct stacking of the fan and the filter unit. This in particular allows achieving an advantageously small construction height of the blower device.
Furthermore it is proposed that a flow-through direction of the airflow through the filter element is substantially different from a flow-through direction of the airflow through the fan. Preferably the flow-through direction of the airflow through the fan is perpendicular or parallel to a main extension plane of the fan. Preferably the flow-through direction of the airflow through the filter element is perpendicular to a main extension plane of the filter element. Preferentially the flow-through direction of the filter element is angled relative to the flow-through direction of the fan by at least 50°, preferably by at least 90°, preferentially by at least 140° and especially preferentially by at least 180°. Preferably the flow-through direction of the filter element is at least approximately opposed to the flow-through direction of the fan. In this way in particular a deflection of the airflow is achievable. Preferentially this in particular enables providing an advantageously compact, in particular flat-built, blower device. It is in particular possible to avoid direct stacking of the fan and the filter unit. As a result, in particular an advantageously small construction height of the blower device is achievable.
It is moreover conceivable that the flow-through direction of the airflow through the filter element is at least substantially opposed to the flow-through direction of the airflow through the fan. “At least substantially opposed” is in particular to mean, in this context, that a direction vector of the flow-through direction of the airflow through the fan includes a smallest angle of at least 140°, preferably at least 160° and particularly preferably at least approximately 180° with the direction vector of the flow-through direction of the airflow through the filter element. In this way in particular an advantageous side-by-side arrangement of the fan and the filter element is achievable. As a result, it is in particular possible to provide an advantageously compact, in particular flat-built, blower device. In particular, direct stacking of the fan and the filter unit is avoidable. In this way in particular an advantageously small construction height of the blower device is achievable.
It is further proposed that the at least one filter element has a main extension plane and the fan has a main extension plane, wherein a distance from the main extension plane of the filter element to the main extension plane of the fan is smaller than a maximum thickness of the filter element. The filter element preferably extends parallel to the fan. Preferentially a distance from the main extension plane of the filter element to the main extension plane of the fan is smaller than 50 mm, preferably smaller than 30 mm and particularly preferably smaller than 10 mm. The main extension plane of the filter element and the main extension plane of the fan are preferably arranged in a plane. In this way in particular an advantageously compact arrangement of the fan and the filter element is achievable. This in particular enables providing an advantageously compact, in particular flat-built, blower device.
Moreover it is proposed that the at least one filter element has a main extension plane and the fan has a main extension plane, wherein at least a large portion of normal vectors of the main extension plane of the filter element, which intersect with the filter element, is free of an intersection point with the fan. Preferentially all normal vectors of the main extension plane of the filter element, which intersect with the filter element, are free of an intersection point with the fan. The filter element and the fan may in particular be arranged side by side and parallel to one another, as well as side by side and partly angled relative to one another. An angle between the main extension plane of the filter element and the main extension plane of the fan is preferentially greater than 80°, preferably greater than 120° and particularly preferably greater than 160°. By “at least a large portion of normal vectors, which intersect with the filter element” at least such normal vectors are to be understood which intersect with more than 50%, preferably more than 70% and particularly preferably more than 90% of a main extension area of the filter element. In this way in particular an advantageously compact arrangement of the fan and the filter element is achievable. This in particular enables providing an advantageously compact, in particular flat-built, blower device.
It is also proposed that the blower device comprises a further filter element, which is arranged beside the fan and/or beside the one filter element and whose flow-through direction of the airflow differs from a flow-through direction of the airflow through the fan and/or through the filter element. Preferentially the further filter element is arranged beside the fan and beside the filter element. Furthermore the flow-through direction of the airflow through the further filter element preferably differs from a flow-through direction of the airflow through the fan. In this way in particular an advantageously compact arrangement of the fan, the filter element and the further filter element is achievable. This in particular enables providing an advantageously compact, in particular flat-built, blower device.
Furthermore it is proposed that the at least one filter element has a main extension plane and the fan has a main extension plane, wherein the main extension plane of the filter element is angled relative to the main extension plane of the fan. Preferably an angle between the main extension plane of the filter element and the main extension plane of the fan is greater than 45°, preferentially greater than 60° and especially preferentially greater than 75°. Preferably a normal vector of the main extension plane of the filter element, which intersects with the filter element, and a normal vector of the main extension plane of the fan, which intersects with the fan, include an angle of maximally 90° and minimally 5°. An intersection line of the main extension plane of the filter element and the main extension plane of the fan preferably extends at least in a proximity of the filter element and the fan. A smallest distance between the intersection line and the filter element is in particular smaller than 15 cm, preferentially smaller than 10 cm and especially preferentially smaller than 5 cm. In this way in particular an advantageously compact arrangement of the fan and the filter element is achievable. This in particular enables providing an advantageously compact, in particular flat-built, blower device.
Beyond this it is proposed that the blower device comprises a housing unit, which accommodates the fan and the at least one filter element and has a thickness of less than 70 mm. Preferably the housing unit has a thickness of less than 50 mm. The housing unit in particular serves for a protection and an orientation of the fan and of the filter element. Preferentially the blower device further comprises an energy storage for an energy supply of the fan, which is also accommodated in the housing unit. A “thickness” of the housing unit is in particular to mean, in this context, a maximum extension of the housing unit perpendicularly to a main extension plane of the housing unit. This in particular enables providing an advantageously compact blower device.
It is also proposed that the fan is configured for a generation of a volumetric flow rate of the airflow of at least 50 l/min and maximally 250 l/min. Preferentially the fan is configured for a generation of a volumetric flow rate of the airflow of at least 80 l/min and maximally 120 l/min. This in particular enables providing an advantageously compact high-performance blower device.
Furthermore it is proposed that the fan has at least one inlet, through which the airflow is sucked into the fan, wherein a flow-in direction of the airflow into the fan is at least substantially opposed to a flow-in direction of the airflow into the filter element. In particular, the fan is implemented by a radial fan, such that air is sucked axially into the fan. An axis of rotation of the fan extends in particular at least substantially perpendicularly to a main extension plane of the filter element. The airflow in particular flows through the filter element, is then deflected towards the fan, preferably on a rear wall of the housing unit, and is then sucked into the fan in the region of the fan perpendicularly to the rear wall. An airflow flowing into the filter element therefore in particular flows towards the rear wall, while the air flow flowing into the fan is oriented away from the rear wall. The flow-in direction of the airflow into the fan is angled relative to the flow-in direction of the airflow into the filter element, in particular by at least 100°, preferably at least 120° and more preferably at least 140°. The flow-in direction of the airflow into the fan is in particular angled by at least approximately 170° with respect to the flow-in direction of the airflow into the filter element. In this way in particular an advantageous side-by-side arrangement of the fan and the filter element is achievable. As a result, it is in particular possible to provide an advantageously compact, in particular flat-built, blower device. In particular, direct stacking of the fan and the filter unit is avoidable. In this way in particular an advantageously small construction height of the blower device is achievable.
It is also proposed that the housing unit has a rear wall, having a flow guiding body which is provided to guide the airflow when flowing into the fan. The rear wall is formed in particular by a housing shell of the housing unit facing the user. In an operation, the rear wall of the housing unit in particular rests on a user's back. In this context, a “flow guiding body” is in particular to be understood as a volume body which is configured for a selective guidance and control of the airflow. The flow guiding body preferably protrudes into a flow channel of the airflow between the filter element and the fan. The flow guiding body is preferably configured to deflect an air flow, with an airflow in particular being calmed when deflected. The flow guiding body in particular has a flow guiding surface, which is provided to be flowed against by an airflow. The airflow is deflected from the flow guiding surface by at least 30°, preferably by at least 60° and particularly preferably by at least 90° towards an inlet of the fan. In this way in particular an advantageous side-by-side arrangement of the fan and the filter element is achievable. As a result, it is in particular possible to provide an advantageously compact, in particular flat-built, blower device. Preferably, an advantageously relaxed airflow into the fan can be implemented. In particular, an advantageous flow onto a flow sensor can be provided.
Beyond this it is proposed that the flow guiding body has a flow guiding wall which has, in a cross-section perpendicular to a flow-in direction of the fan, a spiral-sector-shaped course. A radius of the course of the flow guiding wall preferably decreases towards the inlet of the fan. A flow sensor is preferably arranged on an inlet side of the flow guiding wall. The flow guiding wall is in particular a wall of the flow guiding body facing the flow channel of the air flow. In particular, the flow guiding body is directly arranged next to the fan. The flow guiding body is preferably directly arranged next to the fan in a region of the inlet of the fan. As a result, it is in particular possible to provide an advantageously compact, in particular flat-built, blower device. Preferably, an advantageously relaxed air flow into the fan can be implemented. In particular, an advantageous flow onto a flow sensor can be provided.
The invention is furthermore based on a respiratory protection system, in particular a respiratory protection blower system, with the blower device and with at least one mouth protection device. It is proposed that the at least one blower device is configured for a generation of a positive pressure in the mouth protection device. Preferably the at least one blower device is configured for generating, in the mouth protection device, a positive pressure relative to an environment. A “respiratory protection system” is in particular to mean, in this context, a system with a blower device and with a mouth protection device, which is configured to actively provide an airflow for a breathing air supply of a user. The respiratory protection system is in particular configured, in an operation, to generate an airflow by means of a blower device, which is fed to the mouth protection device of the respiratory protection system. Preferentially the blower device is connected with the mouth protection device of the respiratory protection system via at least one breathing air supply line. Preferably the respiratory protection system is configured, in an operation, for suctioning air from an environment, for purifying, in particular filtering, the air and for actively feeding the purified air to a user by means of the mouth protection device. By a “mouth protection device” is in particular, in this context, a device to be understood which implements a mouth protection and which is configured to be worn at least on a mouth and/or nose region of a user. Preferentially the device is configured to form a breathing region in front of a user's mouth and/or nose region, which is in an operation continuously supplied with breathing air. Preferably the mouth protection device is configured to supply a user with breathing air directly and to protect the user's mouth and/or nose region from external influences, in particular from gases, particles and/or suspended matter. Preferentially the mouth protection device is free of a covering a user's eyes, in particular of a user's eye area. Preferably the mouth protection device comprises a mask base body, which is configured to cover a user's mouth and/or nose region and which at least partly delimits a breathing region, and comprises at least one breathing air supply line that is connected with the mask base body and delimits at least one breathing air duct, which opens into the breathing region and is configured for guiding an active breathing airflow.
This in particular enables providing an advantageously comfortable respiratory protection system. In particular, a reliable supply with breathing air is achievable.
Moreover it is proposed that the respiratory protection system comprises a vest that is to be worn by a user, on the back of which the blower device is arranged. Preferentially the blower device is releasably connected with the vest. This in particular allows ensuring an advantageously comfortable wearing of the respiratory protection system. Furthermore it is in particular possible to achieve an advantageous arrangement of the blower device. In particular, a slipping of the blower device can be avoided.
Beyond this it is proposed that the respiratory protection system comprises an external operating unit comprising at least one operating element and at least one control and/or regulation unit, which is configured for a control and/or regulation of the blower device. Preferably the external operating unit is connected with the blower device via a radio connection and/or by a cable. The external operating unit is in particular implemented by a remote control. It would however also be conceivable that the external operating unit is implemented with a smartphone or something like that. By an “operating unit” is here in particular a unit to be understood which comprises at least one operating element that is directly operable by a user, and which is configured for influencing and/or changing a process and/or a state of a unit that is coupled with the operating unit by an activation and/or by entering parameters. By an “operating element” is in particular an element to be understood which is configured, in an operating process, to receive an input parameter from a user and in particular to be contacted by a user directly, wherein a touching of the operating element is sensed and/or an activation force applied to the operating element is sensed and/or is mechanically transmitted for an activation of a unit. A “control and/or regulation unit” is in particular to mean a unit with at least one control electronics part. A “control electronics part” is in particular to mean a unit with a processor unit and with a memory unit and with an operation program that is stored in the memory unit. In this way in particular an advantageously comfortable controlling of the blower device is achievable.
It is further proposed that the external operating unit comprises at least one sensor unit for capturing at least one environment parameter, wherein the control and/or regulation unit is configured, in at least one operation state, for a control and/or regulation of the blower device on the basis of the at least one environment parameter. Different environment parameters which are deemed expedient by someone skilled in the art are conceivable.
Preferentially, for example, an air quality, an ambient pressure, an oxygen concentration or something similar is captured by the sensor unit. The external operating unit is in particular configured to be worn by a user on his chest. It is thus in particular possible to capture environment parameters in a user's head region by means of the sensor unit. By a “sensor unit” is in particular, in this context, a unit to be understood which is configured to record at least one parameter and/or a physical characteristic, wherein the recording may take place actively, in particular by generating and emitting an electric measurement signal, and/or passively, in particular by capturing changes in a characteristic of a sensor component. Different sensor units which are deemed expedient by someone skilled in the art are conceivable. This in particular enables achieving a sensible control and/or regulation of the blower device. In particular, an adapted operation of the blower device is achievable. It would furthermore be conceivable that a user may be warned, for example of dangerous situations.
The blower device according to the invention, the respiratory protection system and/or the external operating unit are/is herein not to be limited to the application and implementation described above. In particular, for the purpose of fulfilling a functionality that is described here, the blower device according to the invention, the respiratory protection system and/or the external operating unit may comprise a number of individual elements, structural components and units that differs from a number that is given here. Moreover, regarding the value ranges given in the present disclosure, values situated within the limits mentioned shall also be considered to be disclosed and to be insertable as applicable.
Further advantages will become apparent from the following description of the drawings. The drawings show two exemplary embodiments of the invention. The drawings, the description and the claims contain a plurality of features in combination. Someone skilled in the art will purposefully also consider the features individually and will find further expedient combinations.
It is shown in:
The blower device 14a comprises a housing unit 58a. The housing unit 58a is implemented by a synthetic housing. The housing unit 58a comprises two interconnected housing shells 70a, 72a, namely a first housing shell 70a and a second housing shell 72a. The first housing shell 70a comprises two openable covers 74a, 76a, via which an inner space of the housing unit 58a can be made accessible. The second housing shell 72a forms a rear side of the housing unit 58a, which in a state when worn faces toward the user 18a. The second housing shell 72a is concavely curved on its outer side. The curvature of the second housing shell 72a is adapted to the curvature of a human back. Furthermore the housing unit 58a comprises a plurality of air inlet openings 78a. The air inlet openings 78a are formed by slits in the first housing shell 70a. In an operation the air inlet openings 78a serve for suctioning ambient air via an airflow 50a. The housing unit 58a further comprises an air outlet opening 80a. The air outlet opening 80a is formed by a hose connecting piece on the first housing shell 70a. In an operation the air outlet opening 80a serves for outputting the purified airflow 50a, in particular a breathing airflow 26a. In an operation the breathing airflow 26a is transferred from the air outlet opening 80a onwards to the mouth protection device 12a (
The housing unit 58a has a thickness d of less than 70 mm. The housing unit 58a has a thickness d of less than 50 mm.
The blower device 14a moreover comprises a fan 48a for a generation of an airflow 50a. The blower device 14a is configured to generate a positive pressure in the mouth protection device 12a. The fan 48a is configured to generate a positive pressure in the mouth protection device 12a. The fan 48a is configured to generate a volumetric flow rate of the airflow 50a of at least 50 l/min and maximally 250 l/min. The fan 48a is configured to generate a volumetric flow rate of the airflow 50a of at least 80 l/min and maximally 120 l/min. In an operation the blower device 14a is configured to generate in the mouth protection device 12a, by means of the fan 48a, a relative positive pressure with respect to an environment. The fan 48a is implemented by an electric radial fan. Principally, however, another implementation deemed expedient by someone skilled in the art would also be conceivable. The fan 48a is arranged in the housing unit 58a. A main extension plane 56a of the fan 48a extends at least substantially parallel to a main extension plane of the housing unit 58a. The fan 48a is arranged in an upper region of the blower device 14a. The air outlet opening 80a is arranged on an output side of the fan 48a. The blower device 14a further comprises a control and/or regulation unit 86a for a controlling and/or regulation of the fan 48a in an operation. The control and/or regulation unit 86a is in particular configured for an automatic adaption of a performance level of the fan 48a. The control and/or regulation unit 86a is configured to adjust an airflow level of the fan 48a depending on a saturation of a filter element 52a. Furthermore the control and/or regulation unit 86a is in particular configured for an automatic airflow control and airflow adaption (
The blower device 14a further comprises the filter element 52a. The filter element 52a is configured to be flown through by the airflow 50a. The filter element 52a is implemented by a rectangular-cuboid-shaped filter module. The filter element 52a is implemented by a suspended-matter filter. The filter element 52a is embodied as a depth filter, in particular a lamellate filter. However, it would also be conceivable for the filter element 52a to be embodied as a gas filter, in particular as an A1B1E1 gas filter. The filter element 52a is arranged in the housing unit 58a. A main extension plane 54a of the filter element 52a extends at least substantially parallel to a main extension plane of the housing unit 58a. The filter element 52a is arranged in a lower region of the blower device 14a. The housing unit 58a accommodates the fan 48a and the filter element 52a. The air inlet opening 78a is arranged on an entry side of the filter element 52a. Furthermore the filter element 52a is implemented in such a way that it is exchangeable via the cover 74a (
The fan 48a is arranged beside the filter element 52a, wherein the airflow 50a is deflected between the fan 48a and the filter element 52a. The filter element 52a and the fan 48a are together arranged in the housing unit 58a. The housing unit 58a comprises an air guide duct 82a, which accommodates the filter element 52a and is configured for guiding the airflow 50a between the filter element 52a and the fan 48a. In terms of fluid dynamics, the filter element 52a is arranged before the fan 48a along the airflow 50a. The airflow 50a between the fan 48a and the filter element 52a is deflected by at least approximately 90°. A deflection of the airflow 50a is effected in the air guide duct 82a. It would, however, also be conceivable that an air guide duct 82a may be dispensed with. A flow-through direction r1 of the airflow 50a through the filter element 52a is substantially different from a flow-through direction r2 of the airflow 50a through the fan 48a. The flow-through direction r2 of the airflow 50a through the fan 48a extends parallel to the main extension plane 56a of the fan 48a. In case of an implementation of the fan 48a as an axial fan, it would also be conceivable that the flow-through direction r2 of the airflow 50a through the fan 48a extends perpendicularly to the main extension plane 56a of the fan 48a. The flow-through direction r1 of the airflow 50a through the filter element 52a extends perpendicularly to the main extension plane 54a of the filter element 52a. The flow-through direction r1 of the filter element 52a is angled by at least approximately 90° relative to the flow-through direction r2 of the fan 48a (
The filter element 52a has the main extension plane 54a. The fan 48a has the main extension plane 56a. It would be conceivable for the main extension plane 54a to extend parallel to the main extension plane 56a, wherein a distance from the main extension plane 54a of the filter element 52a to the main extension plane 56a of the fan 48a is smaller than a maximum thickness of the filter element 52a. Preferably, in a parallel implementation a distance from the main extension plane 54a of the filter element 52a to the main extension plane 56a of the fan 48a would be smaller than 50 mm, preferentially smaller than 30 mm and especially preferentially smaller than 10 mm. In the illustrated implementation the main extension plane 54a of the filter element 52a is angled relative to the main extension plane 56a of the fan 48a. An angle between the main extension plane 54a of the filter element 52a and the main extension plane 56a of the fan 48a is greater than 80°, preferably greater than 120° and particularly preferably greater than 160°. The angle between the main extension plane 54a of the filter element 52a and the main extension plane 56a of the fan 48a is at least approximately 165°. A normal vector of the main extension plane 54a of the filter element 52a, which intersects with the filter element 52a, and a normal vector of the main extension plane 56a of the fan 48a, which intersects with the fan 48a, include a smallest angle of at least approximately 15°. Preferentially the main extension plane 56a of the fan 48a and the main extension plane 54a of the filter element 52a include a smallest angle of at least 60°, preferably at least 70°, with an imaginary plane in which the intersection line between the main extension plane 56a of the fan 48a and the main extension plane 54a of the filter element 52a extends and which is situated symmetrically between the filter element 52a and the fan 48a. Preferentially an intersection line of the main extension plane 54a of the filter element 52a and the main extension plane 56a of the fan 48a extends in a proximity of the filter element 52a and the fan 48a. A smallest distance between the intersection line and the filter element 52a is in particular smaller than 15 cm, preferably smaller than 10 cm and particularly preferably smaller than 5 cm. A smallest distance between the intersection line and the filter element 52a is smaller than a smallest distance between the fan 48a and the filter element 52a. At least a large portion of normal vectors of the main extension plane 54a of the filter element 52a, which intersect with the filter element 52a, are free of an intersection point with the fan 48a. All normal vectors of the main extension plane 54a of the filter element 52a, which intersect with the filter element 52a, are free of an intersection point with the fan 48a. The filter element 52a and the fan 48a are arranged, at least partially angled relative to one another, side by side (
Beyond this the blower device 14a comprises an energy storage 84a. The energy storage 84a is implemented by a rechargeable battery. The energy storage 84a serves for an energy supply of the fan 48a. A main extension plane of the energy storage 84a extends at least substantially parallel to a main extension plane of the housing unit 58a. The energy storage 84a is arranged in a lower region of the blower device 14a. The housing unit 58a accommodates the fan 48a, the filter element 52a and the energy storage 84a. The housing unit 58a serves for a protection and an orientation of the fan 48a, the filter element 52a and the energy storage 84a. The energy storage 84a is furthermore implemented in such a way that it is exchangeable via the cover 76a (
The respiratory protection system 10a further comprises an external operating unit 62a. The external operating unit 62a is implemented by a remote control. The operating unit 62a comprises operating elements 64a and a control and/or regulation unit 66a, which is configured for a control and/or regulation of the blower device 14a. The external operating unit 62a is exemplarily connected with the blower device 14a by a cable 88a. The control and/or regulation unit 66a of the external operating unit 62a is in particular configured to actuate the control and/or regulation unit 86a of the blower device 14a depending on an input at the operating elements 64a. It is for example possible to set a performance level of the fan 48a via the operating elements 64a. It is furthermore possible to activate or deactivate the fan 48a via the operating elements 64a. The external operating unit 62a moreover comprises a sensor unit 68a for capturing environment parameters. The control and/or regulation unit 66a is configured, in at least one operation state, for a control and/or regulation of the blower device 14a on the basis of the environment parameters. The control and/or regulation unit 66a is configured, in an operation, to actuate the control and/or regulation unit 86a of the blower device 14a, wherein a performance level of the fan 48a is adapted on the basis of the environment parameters by means of the control and/or regulation unit 86a of the blower device 14a. The sensor unit 68a is configured to capture an air quality, an ambient pressure and/or an oxygen concentration.
The respiratory protection system 10a further comprises a vest 60a that is to be worn by a user 18a. The vest 60a is implemented by a fabric vest. The blower device 14a is arranged on a rear side of the vest 60a. In an operation, the blower device 14a is worn by a user 18a on his back by means of the vest 60a. In an operation, the blower device 14a is worn by a user 18a on his back by means of the vest 60a. The external operating unit 62a is furthermore configured to be worn by a user 18a on his chest. The external operating unit 62a is arranged on a front side of the vest 60a. It is therefore possible that environment parameters are captured in a head region of the user 18a via the sensor unit 68a.
The respiratory protection system 10a further comprises a breathing air line 46a, which is configured for guiding the breathing airflow 26a. The breathing air line 46a connects the blower device 14a with the mouth protection device 12a. The breathing air line 46a is connected with the blower device 14a via the air outlet opening 80a of the blower device 14a. The breathing air line 46a is implemented by a hose. In an operation the breathing air line 46a is configured for guiding the breathing airflow 26a.
The mouth protection device 12a comprises a mask base body 16a. The mask base body 16a is configured for covering a mouth and nose region of the user 18a. Furthermore the mask base body 16a is configured to at least partially delimit a breathing region 20a. In an operation the mask base body 16a, together with the face of the user 18a and a separation layer 38a, delimits the breathing region 20a. The mask base body 16a is implemented at least to a large extent of a flexurally soft material. The mask base body 16a is completely implemented of a flexurally soft material. The mask base body 16a is completely implemented of a dimensionally unstable material. The mask base body 16a is implemented at least to a large extent of a textile material. The mask base body 16a is completely implemented of a textile material. The mask base body 16a is made of a textile. The mask base body 16a is completely implemented of a textile. The mask base body 16a is implemented to be at least substantially airtight. It would in particular be conceivable that a textile of which the mask base body 16a is made comprises a coating which at least reduces an air permeability. The mask base body 16a is airtight in particular at least at an absolute pressure of 1 bar, preferably at least 2 bar and particularly preferably at least 3 bar (
The mouth protection device 12a further comprises a sealing element 90a. The sealing element 90a is fixedly connected with the mask base body 16a. The sealing element 90a is arranged at an upper edge of the mask base body 16a. The sealing element 90a is configured for sealing the mask base body 16a, at least at an upper edge of the mask base body 16a, against the face of the user 18a. The sealing element 90a is configured for sealing the breathing region 20a and an outlet region 40a toward the eyes of the user 18a, in order to avoid an airflow into the eyes of the user 18a. The sealing element 90a is made of a foam material. The sealing element 90a is implemented of a foam strip. The sealing element 90a is exemplarily glued with the mask base body 16a (
Furthermore the mouth protection device 12a comprises a breathing air supply line 22a, which is connected with the mask base body 16a. The breathing air supply line 22a delimits a breathing air duct 24a which opens into the breathing region 20a and which is configured to guide the active breathing airflow 26a. The breathing air supply line 22a is implemented of an elastic hose. The breathing air supply line 22a exemplarily has an oval cross section. However, a different cross section of the breathing air supply line 22a, deemed expedient by someone skilled in the art, would also be conceivable, for example a circular cross section. The breathing air supply line 22a extends from the breathing air line 46a to the breathing region 20a.
The mouth protection device 12a also comprises a further breathing air supply line 22′a, which is redundant to the breathing air supply line 22a and is connected with the mask base body 16a. The further breathing air supply line 22′a delimits a further breathing air duct, which opens into the breathing region 20a and is configured for guiding an active breathing airflow 26a. The further breathing air supply line 22′a is implemented of an elastic hose. The further breathing air supply line 22′a exemplarily has an oval cross section. The further breathing air supply line 22′a extends from the breathing air line 46a to the breathing region 20a. The further breathing air supply line 22′a is arranged on a side of the mask base body 16a that faces away from the breathing air supply line 22a. The breathing air supply lines 22a, 22′a are configured to be guided past the head 30a of the user 18a on different sides of the head 30a of the user 18a. The further breathing air supply line 22′a has a function that is redundant to the breathing air supply line 22a. The further breathing air supply line 22′a serves to augment a safety of a supply with the breathing airflow 26a. The breathing air supply line 22a and the further breathing air supply line 22′a are each functional independently from one another.
The breathing air line 46a connected with the blower device 14a is configured for guiding the breathing airflow 26a to the breathing air supply lines 22a, 22′a. The breathing air line 46a is furthermore configured for dividing the breathing airflow 26a to the breathing air supply line 22a and the further breathing air supply line 22′a. The breathing air line 46a is coupled with the breathing air supply line 22a and the further breathing air supply line 22′a via a Tee connector piece 108a. The Tee connector piece 108a is configured to be arranged in a nape region of the user 18a.
The mouth protection device 12a further comprises a fixation strap 28a for a fixation of the mask base body 16a on the head 30a of the user 18a. The fixation strap 28a is implemented of an elastic strap, like in particular a rubber strap. The fixation strap 28a has a width which at least approximately corresponds to a width of the breathing air supply line 22a. Furthermore an effective length of the fixation strap 28a is implemented to be adjustable. The fixation strap 28a extends from a first end of the mask base body 16a to an opposite-situated second end of the mask base body 16a. The fixation strap 28a extends from a first end of the mask base body 16a, in which the breathing air supply line 22a is connected with the mask base body 16a, to an opposite-situated second end of the mask base body 16a, in which the further breathing air supply line 22′a is connected with the mask base body 16a. The fixation strap 28a is configured, in a state when the mouth protection device 12a is worn, to be guided around a back of the head, in particular in a nape region. The mouth protection device 12a comprises at least one connection unit 32a for a simultaneous plug connection of the fixation strap 28a and the at least one breathing air supply line 22a, 22′a with the mask base body 16a. The mouth protection device 12a comprises the connection unit 32a and a further connection unit, which is not shown, for a simultaneous plug connection of the fixation strap 28a respectively with the breathing air supply line 22a and the mask base body 16a, and with the further breathing air supply line 22′a and the mask base body 16a. The connection units 32a serve for pulling off or taking off the mouth protection device 12a. In the connection units 32a a coupling is effected, for example, by means of a plugging movement. The connection units 32a each comprise a first coupling element 92a and a second coupling element 94a that corresponds to the first coupling element 92a. The first coupling elements 92a of the connection units 32a exemplarily each form an interface receptacle, while the second coupling elements 94a of the connection units 32a each form an interface extension. The first coupling elements 92a of the connection units 32a are each fixedly connected with the mask base body 16a at opposite ends. The second coupling element 94a of the connection units 32a is fixedly connected with a first end of the fixation strap 28a and with the breathing air supply line 22a. The further second coupling element of the further connection unit is fixedly connected with a second end of the fixation strap 28a and with the further breathing air supply line 22′a. The first coupling elements 92a of the connection units 32a are respectively implemented of a hose connection. The first coupling elements 92a of the connection units 32a are respectively configured to latch with the second coupling elements 94a of the connection units 32a. The second coupling elements 94a of the connection units 32a each comprise actuation elements 96a for a releasing of the latch connection (
The mouth protection device 12a comprises a head fixation strap 98a for an additional fixation of the mask base body 16a on the head 30a of the user 18a. Furthermore, an effective length of the head fixation strap 98a is implemented adjustable. The head fixation strap 98a extends from a first end of the mask base body 16a to an opposite-situated second end of the mask base body 16a. The head fixation strap 98a extends from a first end of the mask base body 16a, in which the breathing air supply line 22a is connected with the mask base body 16a, to an opposite-situated second end of the mask base body 16a, in which the further breathing air supply line 22′a is connected with the mask base body 16a. The head fixation strap 98a is configured, in a state when the mouth protection device 12a is worn, to be guided around a back of a head, in particular an upper head. The mouth protection device 12a comprises a fixation unit 100a and a further fixation unit 100′a for an adjustable fixation of the head fixation strap 98a with the mask base body 16a at its ends. For a fixation, the head fixation strap 98a is guided adjustably on the fixation units 100a, 100′a through recesses.
The mouth protection device 12a also comprises an adjustment unit 34a, wherein at least an effective length of a side edge 36a of the mask base body 16a is implemented to be at least partly adjustable by means of said adjustment unit 34a. An effective length of a side edge 36a from the first end of the mask base body 16a, in which the first coupling element 92a is arranged, to the second end of the mask base body 16a, in which the further first coupling element 92′a is arranged, is implemented to be adjustable by means of the adjustment unit 34a. The side edge 36a extends substantially parallel to a main extension direction of the mask base body 16a. The adjustment unit 34a comprises a cord 102a, in particular an elastic cord, as well as a cord clamp 104a. The cord 102a of the adjustment unit 34a extends in a duct of the mask base body 16a from the first end of the mask base body 16a to the second end of the mask base body 16a, which is situated opposite the first end. The cord 102a is fixated at the first end and the second end. An effective length of the cord 102a, and thus of the side edge 36a of the mask base body 16a, is implemented to be manually adjustable by means of the cord clamp 104a. In particular, an effective length of the cord 102a is implemented to be manually adjustable by way of different-sized loops of the cord 102a being formed by means of the cord clamp 104a.
The mouth protection device 12a furthermore comprises a separation layer 38a, which is connected with the mask base body 16a and is configured for at least partly separating the breathing region 20a from an outlet region 40a. The outlet region 40a is at least partially delimited by the mask base body 16a. The outlet region 40a is arranged below the breathing region 20a. In an operating state the mask base body 16a delimits, together with the face of the user 18a, a spatial region that is divided by the separation layer 38a into a breathing region 20a and an outlet region 40a. The separation layer 38a forms, together with the mask base body 16a, a duct which at least partially forms the breathing region 20a and which extends up to a middle region of the mouth protection device 12a. The duct formed by the separation layer 38a extends from the breathing air duct 24a and the further breathing air duct to a user's mouth and/or nose region. In the user's mouth and/or nose region the breathing region 20a merges into the outlet region 40a. The separation layer 38a is realized integrally with the mask base body 16a. The separation layer 38a protrudes, perpendicularly to the mask base body 16a, between the breathing region 20a and the outlet region 40a. The separation layer 38a has in a middle region a cutout 106a, which connects the breathing region 20a with the outlet region 40a. The separation layer 38a is at least substantially made of a textile material. The separation layer 38a is completely made of a textile. The separation layer 38a is configured for a defined guidance of air. The separation layer 38a is configured to guide the breathing airflow 26a past the mouth and/or nose region of a user 18a before reaching the outlet region 40a. For this purpose the separation layer 38a has in its middle region the cutout 106a, which connects the breathing region 20a with the outlet region 40a. In an operation, the breathing airflow 26a flows from the breathing air duct 24a and the further breathing air duct into the breathing region 20a, and from the breathing region 20a through the cutout 106a into the outlet region 40a. The cutout 106a is arranged in a proximity of the mouth and/or nose region of a user 18a (
Beyond this the mouth protection device 12a comprises a discharge valve 42a, which is configured to regulate a pressure in the breathing region 20a to an at least approximately constant value. The discharge valve 42a is embodied by a positive-pressure valve, in particular a one-way positive-pressure valve, which is configured to open from a defined positive pressure in the breathing region 20a, respectively the outlet region 40a, relative to an environment. The discharge valve 42a is configured to permit, in particular to keep up, a defined positive pressure in the breathing region 20a. Preferably the discharge valve 42a is embodied by a mechanical valve. The mask base body 16a is not completely sealed against the face of the user 18a such that, besides the discharge valve 42a, there is a transition between the mask base body 16a and the face, where it is also possible for air to escape. In case of too much leakage or in case of the mouth protection device 12a taken off, the pressure in the breathing region 20a can no longer be kept up at the transition from the mask base body 16a to the face, and the pressure falls below the limit value of the discharge valve 42a. This can be captured by the blower device 14a, in particular on the basis of a load of the fan 48a, and a warning signal may be outputted to the user 18a if applicable. It is in this way possible that a faulty wearing of the mouth protection device 12a is indicated to the user 18a. Moreover, the fan 48a may thus stop automatically if the mouth protection device 12a is put on. Under regular conditions the pressure in the breathing region 20a is regulated to an approximately constant value by means of the discharge valve 42a (
It is moreover conceivable that the mask base body 16a comprises a partial region 44a, which is implemented to be permeable to air. The partial region 44a is in particular made of an air-permeable textile. The partial region 44a is directly adjacent to the outlet region 40a. The partial region 44a serves for a defined discharge of air into the outlet region 40a. The partial region 44a is provided in addition to the discharge valve 42a but it would also be conceivable that only the partial region 44a is provided, the partial region 44a adopting the function of the discharge valve 42a.
The blower device 14b comprises a housing unit 58b. The housing unit 58b is embodied by a synthetic housing. The housing unit 58b comprises two interconnected housing shells 70b, 72b, namely a first housing shell 70b and a second housing shell 72b. The housing unit 58b has a thickness d of less than 70 mm.
Furthermore the blower device 14b comprises a fan 48b for generating an airflow 50b. The blower device 14b is configured to generate a positive pressure in the mouth protection device 12b. The fan 48b is configured to generate a positive pressure in the mouth protection device 12b. The fan 48b is embodied by an electric radial fan.
The blower device 14b further comprises a filter element 52b. The filter element 52b is configured to be flown through by the airflow 50b. The filter element 52b is implemented by a rectangular-cuboid-shaped filter module. The filter element 52b is embodied by a suspended-matter filter. The filter element 52b is embodied as a depth filter, in particular as a lamellate filter. A main extension plane 54b of the filter element 52b extends at least substantially parallel to a main extension plane of the housing unit 58b. The filter element 52b is arranged in a lower region of the blower device 14b. The housing unit 58b accommodates the fan 48b and the filter element 52b.
The blower device 14b also comprises a further filter element 52′b. The further filter element 52′b is configured to be flown through by the airflow 50b. The further filter element 52′b is configured to be flown through by the airflow 50b before the filter element 52b. The further filter element 52′b is implemented by a rectangular-cuboid-shaped filter module. The further filter element 52′b is implemented by an activated-carbon odor filter. A main extension plane 54′b of the further filter element 52′b extends at least substantially parallel to a main extension plane of the housing unit 58b. The further filter element 52′b is arranged in a lower region of the blower device 14b. The housing unit 58b accommodates the fan 48b, the filter element 52b and the further filter element 52′b. Air inlet openings 78b are arranged on an entry side of the further filter element 52′b. The further filter element 52′b is arranged on an entry side of the filter element 52b.
The fan 48b is arranged beside the filter element 52b, wherein the airflow 50b is deflected between the fan 48b and the filter element 52b. The further filter element 52′b is also arranged beside the fan 48b. The filter element 52b, the further filter element 52′b and the fan 48b are together arranged in the housing unit 58b. The housing unit 58b comprises an air guide duct 82b accommodating the filter element 52b and the further filter element 52′b, which is configured for guiding the airflow 50b between the filter element 52b and the fan 48b. The filter element 52b and the further filter element 52′b are arranged in a stacked fashion. In terms of fluid dynamics, the filter element 52b is arranged before the fan 48b along the airflow 50b. In terms of fluid dynamics, the further filter element 52′b is arranged before the filter element 52b along the airflow 50b. The airflow 50b is deflected by at least approximately 90° between the fan 48b and the filter element 52b. A deflection of the airflow 50b is effected in the air guide duct 82b. It would however also be conceivable that an air guide duct 82b can be done without. A flow-through direction r1 of the airflow 50b through the filter element 52b is essentially different from a flow-through direction r2 of the airflow 50b through the fan 48b. A flow-through direction r3 of the airflow 50b through the further filter element 52′b is essentially different from a flow-through direction r2 of the airflow 50b through the fan 48b. The flow-through direction r3 of the airflow 50b through the further filter element 52′b is substantially equivalent to the flow-through direction r1 of the airflow 50b through the filter element 52b. The flow-through direction r2 of the airflow 50b through the fan 48b extends parallel to a main extension plane 56b of the fan 48b. The flow-through direction r of the airflow 50b through the filter element 52b extends perpendicularly to the main extension plane 54b of the filter element 52b. The flow-through direction r3 of the airflow 50b through the further filter element 52′b extends perpendicularly to the main extension plane 54′b of the further filter element 52′b. The flow-through direction r1 of the filter element 52b and the flow-through direction r3 of the further filter element 52′b are angled by at least approximately 90° relative to the flow-through direction r2 of the fan 48b.
The blower device 14c comprises a housing unit 58c. The housing unit 58c is embodied by a synthetic housing. The housing unit 58c comprises two interconnected housing shells 70c, 72c, namely a first housing shell 70c and a second housing shell 72c. The housing unit 58c has a thickness d of less than 70 mm. The second housing shell 72c forms a rear wall 110c of the housing unit 58c. In an operation, the rear wall 110c of the housing unit 58c in particular rests on a user's back.
Furthermore the blower device 14c comprises a fan 48c for generating an airflow 50c. The blower device 14c is configured to generate a positive pressure in the mouth protection device. The fan 48c is configured to generate a positive pressure in the mouth protection device. The fan 48c is embodied by an electric radial fan.
The blower device 14c further comprises a filter element 52c. The filter element 52c is configured to be flown through by the airflow 50c. The filter element 52c is implemented by a rectangular-cuboid-shaped filter module. The filter element 52c is embodied by a suspended-matter filter. The filter element 52c is embodied as a depth filter, in particular as a lamellate filter. A main extension plane of the filter element 52c extends at least substantially parallel to a main extension plane of the housing unit 58c. The filter element 52c is arranged in a lower region of the blower device 14c. The housing unit 58c accommodates the fan 48c and the filter element 52c. The fan 48c is arranged beside the filter element 52c, wherein the airflow 50c is deflected between the fan 48c and the filter element 52c.
The fan 48c is arranged beside the filter element 52c, wherein the airflow 50c is deflected between the fan 48c and the filter element 52c. The filter element 52c and the fan 48c are together arranged in the housing unit 58c. The housing unit 58c comprises an air guide duct 82c, which accommodates the filter element 52c and is configured for guiding the airflow 50c between the filter element 52c and the fan 48c. In terms of fluid dynamics, the filter element 52c is arranged before the fan 48c along the airflow 50c. The airflow 50c between the fan 48c and the filter element 52c is deflected by at least approximately 90°. A deflection of the airflow 50c is effected in the air guide duct 82c. It would, however, also be conceivable that an air guide duct 82c may be dispensed with. A flow-through direction r1 of the airflow 50c through the filter element 52a is substantially different from a flow-through direction r2 of the airflow 50c through the fan 48c. The flow-through direction r2 of the airflow 50c through the fan 48c extends parallel to the main extension plane of the fan 48c. In case of an implementation of the fan 48c as an axial fan, it would also be conceivable that the flow-through direction r2 of the airflow 50c through the fan 48c extends perpendicularly to the main extension plane of the fan 48c. A flow-in direction r4 of the airflow 50c into the fan 48c extends perpendicularly to the main extension plane of the fan 48c. A flow-out direction of the airflow 50c into the fan 48c extends parallel to the main extension plane of the fan 48c. The flow-through direction r of the airflow 50a through the filter element 52a extends perpendicularly to the main extension plane 54a of the filter element 52a. The flow-through direction r1 of the filter element 52a is angled by at least approximately 90° relative to the flow-through direction r2 of the fan 48a (
The rear wall 110c of the housing unit 58c has a flow guiding body 112c which is configured to guide the air flow 50c when flowing into the fan 48c. The flow guiding body 112c protrudes into a flow channel of the air flow 50c between the filter element 52c and the fan 48c. The flow guiding body 112c is configured to deflect an airflow 50c, with an airflow 50c in particular being calmed when deflected. The flow guiding body 112c has a flow guiding wall 114c, which is configured to be flowed against by an air flow 50c. The airflow 50c is deflected from the flow guiding wall 114c by at least 90° towards the inlet 116c of the fan 48c. The flow guiding wall 114c has, in a cross-section perpendicular to a flow-in direction r4 of the fan 48c, a spiral-sector-shaped course. A radius of the course of the flow guiding wall 114c decreases towards the inlet 118c of the fan 48c. A flow sensor is arranged on an inlet side of the flow guiding wall 114c. The flow sensor is arranged on a sensor mount 116c of the rear wall 110c. The flow guiding wall 114c is a wall of the flow guiding body 112c facing the flow channel of the air flow 50c. The flow guiding body 112c is directly arranged next to the fan 48c. The flow guiding body 112c is preferably directly arranged next to the fan 48c in a region of the inlet 118c of the fan 48c.
| Number | Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| 19218887 | Dec 2019 | EP | regional |
| Number | Name | Date | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20090266361 | Bilger | Oct 2009 | A1 |
| 20090314295 | Hatmaker | Dec 2009 | A1 |
| 20120051904 | Hagen | Mar 2012 | A1 |
| 20130014752 | Ausen | Jan 2013 | A1 |
| 20150023782 | Velzy | Jan 2015 | A1 |
| 20170028157 | Nitta | Feb 2017 | A1 |
| 20170189727 | Hunter | Jul 2017 | A1 |
| 20180021605 | Bartkoski | Jan 2018 | A1 |
| Number | Date | Country |
|---|---|---|
| 105816972 | Aug 2016 | CN |
| 2011064117 | Mar 2011 | JP |
| 101772363 | Aug 2017 | KR |
| 2011006206 | Jan 2011 | WO |
| Entry |
|---|
| English Machine Translation of KR-101772363-B1 provided by PE2E (Year: 2017). |
| English Machine Translation of CN-105816972-A provided by PE2E (Year: 2016). |
| English Machine Translation of JP-2011064117-A provided by PE2E (Year: 2011). |
| Extended European Search Report dated Jun. 16, 2020 issued in corresponding EP application No. 19218887.8 (and English translation). |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20210187333 A1 | Jun 2021 | US |
