fARMOR Respirator

About

fARMOR Respirator: A Light-Weight Self-Cooling Respirator for Agricultural and Industrial Purposes with Bluetooth Capabilities Overview Agricultural and industrial workers often work in environments with poor air quality. In addition hot temperatures and the inability to communicate leads users to remove their respiratory protection despite an increased risk of exposure to hazards such as particulate matter, mold, dust, chemicals and toxic gases. Technology Michele Proctor, Project Coordinator for North Carolina AgrAbility Partnership between NC A&T University, East Carolina University and NC State University, has developed a novel light-weight respirator for use by agricultural and industrial workers. The powered air respirator features a self-contained head gear unit comprising a chin collar that easily adjusts to accommodate the user's facial structure. Air filtration chambers with replaceable filters located on either side of the chin collar form a sleek design that replaces respirators with bulky designed filter cartridges. A wide face shield combined with a cool flow exhalation valve provides maximum visibility even in hot and humid environments. Addition of the polycarbonate headband provides protection against debris, loud sounds and is Bluetooth capable to allow easy communication without removal of the respirator. Advantages Light-Weight Self-Cooling Bluetooth Enabled Wireless Recharging Technology Customizable Respirator Skins Applications Agriculture Industrial Settings Wood Dust Fiberglass Paint and Solvents Overview of Design The right side of the respirator features the main mechanical components. The polycarbonate plastic headband is formed to fit the human head, with discrete ribbed sections to allow some additional flex and aformed-fit. The power button is centered in the power core, and has a green LED indicator to show when the respirator is on. The unit is Bluetooth capable, allowing seamless, hands-free communication without removing the mask . A ratcheting buckle stemming from the power core slides into a corresponding shaft on the face piece of the respirator.A ratcheting buckle stemming from the power core slides into a corresponding shaft on the face piece of the respirator. The quick release push-button for the ratchet strap ensures a fuss-free release of the unit. Slots cut into the polycarbonate headband over each ear vicinity provides some hearing protection. Full face protection is provided by the wide acrylic shield. The Cool Flow exhalation valve is cloaked in the front of the mask, directing hot humid air away from the face and shield. Inventor Profile Michele Proctor, Project Coordinator for North Carolina AgrAbility Partnership at NC A&T State. NC AgrAbility is a collaborative partnership between North Carolina A &T State University, East Carolina University, North Carolina State University and DisAbility Resource Center for Independent Living. Like the unique agricultural diversity of North Carolina, NC AgrAbility has a wide variety of services to offer thanks to the many specialties of our partners.