Automated qualitative mask fit tester
US8276587B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 17, 2009 |
| Grant date | Oct 2, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 14, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61M2209/02
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A hand-held, automated qualitative fit tester (QLFT) for establishing gas mask fit integrity. The automated QLFT may be configured to utilize a pressure source in combination with a cartridge and a nebulizer to generate aerosols having size distributions and concentrations that are substantially the same as OSHA-approved manual units. The QLFT may further include a cartridge that contains the aerosol solution used to test mask integrity. The cartridge may be configured to recapture solution that collects on the interior walls of the nebulizer. The automated QLFT may also be equipped with a microprocessor for executing sequences that are in substantive compliance with 29 CFR 1910.134 and for writing to a data storage device. The automated aspects of the invention can reduce or negate the need for operating personnel to repeatedly and manually actuate a squeeze ball and record results manually, as is required with present OSHA-approved hand-held aerosol generators.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.