Respirator test system

US12161894B1 · kind B1 · utility

Assignee

• National Technology & Engineering Solutions of Sandia, LLC · US

Inventors

• Todd Barrick · Bosque Farms, US
• Eric A. Shaner · Rio Rancho, US
• Bradley C. Salzbrenner · Albuquerque, US
• Michael Alexis Omana · Edgewood, US
• Thomas J. Rogers · San Diego, US
• Dora K. Wiemann · Albuquerque, US
• Lorenzo Jiron · Sandia Park, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Sep 28, 2022
• Grant date: Dec 10, 2024
• Expiry date: Jul 7, 2043

Classification

• Technology area (CPC G): Physics
• CPC primary: G01N2015/084
• WIPO field: Measurement
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

A test fixture facilitates non-destructive testing of a protective mask. The test fixture includes a mock facial structure, a clamping form that makes a seal around at least part of the facial structure, and can employ the retaining straps of the protective mask to a make a seal around at least part of the facial structure. In use, the protective mask is tested in situ on the facial structure. In some examples, the clamping form has a negative contour of the mock facial structure or of the outer surface of a protective mask that is to be tested. The testing can include repetitive testing of the fit, structural components (e.g., ultrasonic welds and straps), and the degradation of materials as a function of donning/doffing or environmental factors (e.g., temperature and humidity).