Reusable filtering face mask

US12364883B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignees

• National Technology & Engineering Solutions of Sandia, LLC · US
• Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research · US

Inventors

• Edward G. Winrow · Albuquerque, US
• Katherine Anne Barrick · Bosque Farms, US
• Todd Barrick · Bosque Farms, US
• Victor H. Chavez · Edgewood, US
• Lorenzo Jiron · Sandia Park, US
• Thomas J. Rogers · San Diego, US
• Eric A. Shaner · Rio Rancho, US
• Zachary Medaris Wilson · Albuquerque, US
• Devyani Lal · Scottsdale, US
• John M. Angeli · Rochester, US
• Mark B. Wehde · Saint Paul, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Nov 15, 2021
• Grant date: Jul 22, 2025
• Expiry date: May 23, 2044

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A62B18/025
• WIPO field: Other consumer goods
• WIPO sector: Other fields

Abstract

A reusable, protective face mask has two detachable filter trays that attach on each side of the mask, a soft elastomeric face seal, and straps to go around the user's head. Exhalations and inhalations can pass through the same filter material. The filter trays can accept arbitrary filter media. A forward-facing port can be used to increase speech intelligibility by transmitting sound through a diaphragm without a prohibitive amount of distortion. Manufacture of the mask is facilitated because the mask body and the other mask components can be produced by injection molding. Decontamination and sterilization are facilitated because the mask can be fully disassembled.