Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a face shielding device with adaptable air filtration that is capable of providing user with improved air quality, enhanced comfort and safety, and personalized protection and hygiene to ensure that the users breathe clean air, free from pollutants and allergens, while regulating temperature and monitoring air quality for a comfortable and safe experience, thereby promoting a healthier and safer user experience.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Air pollution has become a pressing concern globally, with severe impacts on human health, environment, and economy. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that nine out of ten people worldwide breathe polluted air, resulting in millions of premature deaths annually. In India, air pollution is a significant public health concern, with many cities experiencing hazardous air quality levels.

[0003] Traditionally, people have relied on basic masks and air purifiers to combat air pollution. However, these methods have significant drawbacks. Basic masks often lack effective filtration systems, failing to capture fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and other pollutants. Air purifiers, on the other hand, are limited to indoor spaces and do not provide personalized protection for individuals outdoors.

[0004] US20190358473A1 discloses face mask for filtering air includes a face seal for providing an airtight flexible seal around the nose and mouth of a user, a support sealably attached to the face seal, wherein the support has an open area that allows for passage of incoming air and outlet valves for expelling exhaled air, a front shell for removably attaching to the support, wherein the front shell has inlet holes for allowing the incoming air to pass through the open area of the support, and a filter for filtering particulate elements from air. The filter is configured to be housed between the front shell and the support. The face seal provides a direct connection between the filter and the user.

[0005] US20090014005A1 discloses an air filtration device for a helmet protective face mask comprising, a filtration shield, adapted to receive at least one filter and means for securely engaging the filtration shield to the helmet protective face mask, wherein the filtration shield comprises a shape for fitting substantially snugly within an inside surface of the helmet protective face mask.

[0006] Conventionally, there exists many devices that are capable allowing a user to breathe filtered air, however these existing devices are incapable of regulating temperature, preventing overheating, and monitoring air quality, which cause discomfort to the user. In addition, these existing devices are also incapable of providing personalized protection and hygiene maintenance.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that requires to be capable of allowing a user to breathe clean air by regulating temperature, preventing overheating, and monitoring air quality. Furthermore, the developed device required to be potent enough of providing personalized protection and hygiene maintenance.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of providing adaptable air filtration, allowing users to breathe clean air, free from pollutants and allergens.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of ensuring the user's comfort and safety in various environments by regulating temperature, preventing overheating, and monitoring air quality.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of offering personalized protection and automated hygiene maintenance, promoting a healthier and safer user experience.

[0012] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The present invention relates to a face shielding device with adaptable air filtration that is capable of ensuring a healthier and safer experience, the device delivers improved air quality, comfort, and protection, providing users with clean air, regulated temperature, and monitored air quality, while maintaining personalized hygiene.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a face shielding device with adaptable air filtration, comprising a transparent wearable member features a flexible strap that allows users to easily secure it around their head, positioning the member around their face, an electrostatic filter is configured with the member, enabling users to breathe through it with ease, a chamber is arranged with the member and stores multiple filters of various types, each filter is attached to the bottom and ceiling portion of the chamber via a pair of motorized sliding units, providing translation to the filters out of the housing as needed, the member integrates a thermal flow sensor to determine the user's lung capacity, a sensing module, which includes a particulate matter (PM2.5/PM10) sensor and a gas sensor, is also integrated with the member to monitor air quality in the surroundings, a thermal camera is installed with the member to monitor areas around the user's face that have high temperatures. Multiple cooling gel pads are configured over the inner periphery of the member, each installed with a Peltier unit, and the member also integrates a CO2 sensor to monitor CO2 levels around the user's face.

[0015] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the proposed device further comprises of an electronic valve is installed with an oxygen cylinder attached to the member, opening to dispense a regulated amount of oxygen around the user's face, a motorized ball and socket joint is installed between each filter and sliding unit, actuating to regulate the angle of the evaluated filter to position it in contact with the user's mouth and nose, an inflatable tube is configured over the periphery of each filter, linked to an air compressor arranged with the member to inflate the tube, affixing the deployed filter with the user's mouth and nose, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit is installed over the member and integrated with a facial recognition module for capturing images of the user. This determines the user's facial features and matches them with pre-saved facial features saved in the database for user verification, a vibration unit is installed within the chamber to produce vibrations simultaneous to the actuation of multiple air nozzles installed within the chamber to dispense air over the filters with high pressure to remove dust that gets collected in a box arranged beneath the chamber via multiple pores crafted at the bottom portion of the chamber, a UV-C light is installed with the member and actuates only in the case of detection of the user's absence via the imaging unit. This emits UV light over the member for disinfection.

[0016] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of a face shielding device with adaptable air filtration; and
Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view of a chamber associated with the proposed device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0019] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.

[0020] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.

[0021] The present invention relates to a face shielding device with adaptable air filtration that is capable of providing a comprehensive solution for a healthier and safer experience, offering improved air quality, enhanced comfort, and personalized protection, while ensuring clean air, optimal temperature, and hygiene.

[0022] Referring to Figure 1 and 2, an isometric view of a face shielding device with adaptable air filtration and a perspective view of a chamber 104 associated with the proposed device are illustrated, respectively, comprising a transparent wearable member 101 configured with a flexible strap 102, an electrostatic filter 103 is configured with the member 101, a chamber 104 arranged with the member 101 and stored with multiple filters 201 of various types, each of the filters 201 are attached with the bottom and ceiling portion of the chamber 104 by mean of a pair of motorized sliding units 202, a thermal camera 105 installed with the member 101, a motorized ball and socket joint 203 installed between each of the filters 201 and sliding units 202, an inflatable tube 204 is configured over periphery of each of the filters 201, an artificial intelligence based imaging unit 106 installed over the member 101, actuates a vibration unit 205 installed within the chamber 104, a box 206 arranged beneath the chamber 104 via multiple pores 207 crafted at bottom portion of the chamber 104.

[0023] The device disclosed herein, comprises of a transparent wearable member 101, which serves as a main structure of the device and designed to be worn by a user over mouth portion of the user. The member 101 made of two layer materials, wherein first layer is a strong composite material to protect the user from sudden pressure caused by falling objects. The second layer consists of insulation padding to protect against high heat, which generated by heavy machinery.

[0024] The user accommodates the member 101 with their face or mouth by engaging a flexible strap 102 around their head to securely affix the member 101, thereby preventing the chances of slippage after wearing. The member 101 configured with an electrostatic filter 103, which attracts and trap dust particles before the air passes through the deployed filter to allow the user to breathe while wearing the member 101, wherein a chamber 104 installed with the member 101 and consisting multiple filters 201 of varying types such as activated carbon filters and Nano-fiber filters.

[0025] The filters are attached with the bottom and ceiling portion of the chamber 104 with the help of a pair of motorized sliding units 202 to move the filters out of the chamber 104. Herein, a thermal flow sensor installed with the member 101 to determine lung capacity of the user. The thermal flow sensor is used to measure the flow rate of air inhaled and exhaled by the user. By analyzing the flow rate and temperature of the air, the sensor determines the lung capacity of the user.

[0026] When the user inhales, the air flows through the sensor, causing a change in temperature. The sensor measures this temperature change and calculates the flow rate of air. Similarly, when the user exhales, the sensor measures the flow rate and temperature of the exhaled air. By analyzing the flow rate and temperature data, a microcontroller calculates the user's lung capacity, including parameters such as tidal volume, inspiratory capacity, and expiratory reserve volume. This information is used to monitor the user's respiratory health and provide personalized recommendations for improving lung function.

[0027] Synchronously, a sensing module is integrated with the member 101 to monitor air quality in the surroundings. The sensing module includes a particulate matter (PM2.5/PM10) sensor and a gas sensor. The particulate matter (PM2.5/PM10) sensor is designed to monitor the air quality of the surroundings by detecting the concentration of particulate matter (PM) in the air. PM refers to tiny particles that are suspended in the air, including dust, pollen, smoke, and other pollutants. The PM2.5/PM10 sensor uses a laser-based detection method to measure the concentration of PM in the air. The sensor emits a laser beam that scatters off the PM particles in the air.

[0028] The scattered light is then detected by a photodetector, which converts the light into an electrical signal. The electrical signal is then processed by an algorithm that calculates the concentration of PM2.5 and PM10 particles in the air. PM2.5 refers to particles with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less, while PM10 refers to particles with a diameter of 10 micrometers or less. The sensor provides real-time data on the air quality, which is used to, monitor the air quality in the surroundings.

[0029] Based on the detection of both of the sensor the microcontroller analyzes appropriate type of the filter to be deployed. After evaluation, the microcontroller sends the signal to one of the pair of sliding units 202 to position the evaluated filter over the user’s mouth and nose portion. The sliding unit consists of a motor, and a rail unit integrated with ball bearings to allow smooth linear movement. As the motor rotates the rotational motion of the motor is converted into linear motion through a pair of belts and linkages. This linear motion provides a stable track and allows the smooth translation of the filter and get positioned over the user’s mouth and nose portion.

[0030] Herein, a motorized ball and socket joint 203 arranged in between each of the filters 201 and sliding units 202 to regulate angle of the evaluated filter to position in contact with the user’s mouth and nose. The motorized ball and socket joint 203 consist of a ball-shaped element that fits into a socket, which provides rotational freedom in various directions. The ball is connected to a motor, typically a servo motor which provides the controlled movement. The filters are attached to the socket of the motorized ball and socket joint 203. The motor responds by adjusting the ball and socket joint 203 and rotates the ball in the desired direction, and this motion is transferred to the socket that holds the filter. As the ball and socket joint 203 move, it provides the necessary movement to the filter to get out of the chamber 104 and get position over the mouth and nose portion.

[0031] An inflatable tube 204 integrated over periphery of each of the filters 201 linked with an air compressor arranged with the member 101 that is actuated by the microcontroller to inflate the tube 204 to attach filter with the user’s mouth and nose portion. The air compressor extracts the air from surrounding and increases the pressure of the air by reducing the volume of the air and which is further injected in the tube 204. Further, the tube 204 laminated of multiple thin polymeric films, when air is inserted in the tube 204 by means of air compressor, the films are puffed and the member 101 becomes soft and that provides the comfort to the user.

[0032] A thermal camera 105 arranged with the member 101 to monitor high temperature areas around the user’s face. Inside a thermal camera 105, there is a sensor called a microbolometer. This sensor is made up of tiny pixels that detects infrared radiation, which is the heat energy emitted by user’s face. When the infrared radiation hits the pixels, it causes a change in electrical resistance. The camera then measures this change in resistance for each pixel and converts it into a temperature value to detect high temperature areas around the user’s face.

[0033] Multiple cooling gel pads installed at inner periphery of the member 101 and each installed with a Peltier unit. If the detected high temperature areas around the user’s face exceeds a threshold level, then the microcontroller actuates a specific number of Peltier units to minimize the detected temperature. The Peltier units is a thermoelectric cooler that uses the Peltier effect to transfer heat from one side of the unit to the other when an electrical current is passed. The Peltier unit consists of two semiconductor materials connected in a sandwich-like fashion. These materials are typically made of bismuth telluride and one side of the Peltier unit is called the hot side and the other is the cold side.

[0034] When a direct current is applied to the Peltier unit, electrodes within the semiconductor material start moving from one side to the other. The Peltier effect occurs as a result of electron movement. When electrons flow from the cold side to the hot side, they carry heat with them. This leads to one side of the Peltier unit becoming colder, and the other side becoming hooter. This effect allows the Peltier unit to effectively transfer heat from one side to the other, creating a temperature gradient.

[0035] A CO2 sensor embedded with the member 101 to determine CO2 levels around the user’s face. The CO2 sensor utilizes non-dispersive infrared (NDIR) process to measure the CO2 levels around the user's face. This process involves emitting infrared light towards the air around the user's face. The CO2 molecules present in the air absorb a specific wavelength of the infrared light. The CO2 sensor then measures the amount of infrared light absorbed by the CO2 molecules.

[0036] Based on this measurement, the sensor calculates the CO2 concentration in the air. This data is provided in real-time, allowing for accurate monitoring of CO2 levels around the user's face. The CO2 sensor is strategically placed in close proximity to the user's face, enabling it to accurately measure the CO2 levels in the air being breathed. By providing real-time data on CO2 levels, the sensor helps to monitor indoor air quality, detect poor ventilation, and provide alerts when CO2 levels exceed safe limits.

[0037] If the detected level recedes a threshold level, the microcontroller actuates an electronic valve assembled with an oxygen cylinder installed with member 101 to open and dispense a regulated amount of oxygen around the user’s face. The electronic valve works by utilizing electrical energy to automize the flow solution in a controlled flow pattern by converting the pressure energy of a fluid into kinetic energy, which increases the fluid's velocity. Upon actuation of valve by the microcontroller, the electric motor or the pump pressurizes the incoming oxygen, increasing its pressure significantly. High pressure enables the oxygen to be sprayed out with a high force.

[0038] A computing unit accessed by registered user(s) through a user interface to make a profile save corresponding information about facial features and personal preference for temperature that is saved in a database associated with the microcontroller. The microcontroller linked with the computing through a communication module, which includes but not limited to Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) module, Bluetooth module, GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication) module.

[0039] In case the user with the help of the computing unit provide command about filtering the filters, then the microcontroller accordingly actuates a vibration unit 205 arranged inside the chamber 104 to generate vibration. The vibration unit 205 with an eccentric weight that induces vibrations. Upon activation, the microcontroller sends signals to the vibration unit 205, initiating vibrations that are transmitted through the vibration unit 205 into the chamber 104. The vibrational sensations generated in the chamber 104 facilitates in collection of the dust from the filters.

[0040] Simultaneously, the microcontroller actuates multiple air nozzles installed inside the chamber 104 to dispense air over the filters with high pressure to remove the dust from the filters that gets collected in a box 206 arranged underneath the chamber 104 by means of multiple pores 207 carved at bottom portion of the chamber 104.

[0041] An artificial intelligence based imaging unit 106 arranged with the member 101 and integrated with a facial recognition module for capturing images of the user. to determine facial features of the user and match with the pre-saved facial features saved in the database for verification of the user.

[0042] The artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 106 designed to capture high-quality images of the user's face. The imaging unit 106 is strategically arranged with the member 101, ensuring optimal positioning for facial recognition. The imaging unit 106 is equipped with advanced optics and sensors that work in tandem with artificial intelligence protocols to produce crystal-clear images. The facial recognition module is a critical component of the imaging unit 106, utilizing advanced machine learning protocols to analyze the captured images. These protocols are trained on vast datasets of facial features, enabling the module to accurately identify and extract distinctive features from the user's face.

[0043] This includes characteristics such as eye shape, nose Bridge, facial structure, and other unique markers. When the user looks into the imaging unit 106, the facial recognition module springs into action, capturing and analyzing their facial features in real-time. The module then compares the extracted features with pre-saved facial features stored in the database. This database contains a comprehensive library of user profiles, each linked to a unique set of facial features. The verification process involves matching the captured facial features with the pre-saved features in the database.

[0044] The UV (Ultra-Violet)-C light is a state-of-the-art disinfection ensures the cleanliness and hygiene of the member 101. This UV-C light allows for targeted and efficient disinfection. The UV-C light is carefully calibrated to emit a specific wavelength of ultraviolet light, which has been scientifically proven to be highly effective in neutralizing a wide range of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. The UV-C light is cleverly designed to remain dormant until the imaging unit 106 detects the absence of the user.

[0045] This detection triggers the UV-C light to spring into action, emitting a precise and controlled amount of UV-C light over the member 101. This targeted disinfection ensures that the member 101 is thoroughly sanitized, eliminating any potential microbial contaminants that might have accumulated during use. The UV-C light disinfection process is a rapid and efficient one, requiring only a short period of time to complete. This ensures that the member 101 is quickly restored to a hygienic state, ready for the user's next interaction. The UV-C light's automated activation and deactivation also eliminate the need for manual disinfection, providing a convenient and hassle-free experience for the user.

[0046] The present invention works best in following manner, where the user begins by wearing the transparent wearable member 101, securing it around their head using the flexible strap 102. Once in place, the artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 106 captures images of the user's face and uses facial recognition technology to verify their identity. The system matches the user's facial features with pre-saved data in the database. After verification, the particulate matter (PM2.5/PM10) sensor and gas sensor in the sensing module monitor the air quality in the surroundings, detecting pollutants and toxins. Based on this data, the system deploys the appropriate filter from the chamber 104 using the motorized sliding units 202. The inflatable tube 204 is inflated to secure the filter in place over the user's mouth and nose. If the air quality is poor, the electronic valve opens, dispensing a regulated amount of oxygen from the oxygen cylinder to the user. Simultaneously, the thermal camera 105 monitors the temperature around the user's face, detecting any hotspots. If the temperature exceeds a threshold value, the microcontroller actuates the Peltier units in the cooling gel pads to reduce the temperature. The thermal flow sensor also monitors the user's lung capacity, providing real-time data on their respiratory health. To ensure optimal performance, the vibration unit 205 and air nozzles work together to remove dust and debris from the filters. The system analyzes data from various sensors and provides feedback to the user, offering insights into their respiratory health, air quality, and other environmental factors. When the user is not wearing the device, the UV-C light is activated, emitting ultraviolet light to disinfect the device. This ensures that the device remains hygienic and free from microorganisms, providing a safe and healthy experience for the user

[0047] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , C , Claims:1) A face shielding device with adaptable air filtration, comprising:

i) a transparent wearable member 101 configured with a flexible strap 102 that is accessed by a user to engage said strap 102 around said user’s head to affix said member 101 around said user’s face, wherein an electrostatic filter 103 is configured with said member 101 to enable said user to breathe through said member 101;
ii) a chamber 104 arranged with said member 101 and stored with multiple filters 201 of various types, wherein each of said filters are attached with said bottom and ceiling portion of said chamber 104 by mean of a pair of motorized sliding units 202 that actuates to provide translation to said filters out of said housing as per requirement;
iii) a thermal flow sensor integrated with said member 101 to determine lung capacity of said user, wherein a sensing module is integrated with said member 101 to monitor air quality in said surroundings and said microcontroller based on output of said thermal flow sensor and sensing module, the microcontroller evaluates appropriate type of said filter to be deployed and accordingly directs a particular pair of sliding units 202 configured with said evaluated type of said filter to position said evaluated filter over said user’s mouth and nose;
iv) a thermal camera 105 installed with said member 101 to monitor areas around said user’s face that are having high temperature, wherein plurality of cooling gel pads configured over inner periphery of said member 101 and each installed with a Peltier unit and in case said monitored temperature of any particular said area exceeds a threshold value, said microcontroller actuates particular number of Peltier units to reduce said detected temperature; and
v) a CO2 sensor integrated with member 101 to monitor CO2 levels around said user’s face, wherein in case said monitored CO2 levels recedes a threshold value, said microcontroller actuates an electronic valve installed with an oxygen cylinder attached with said member 101 to open and dispense a regulated amount of oxygen around said user’s face.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said sensing module includes a particulate matter (PM2.5/PM10) sensor and a gas sensor.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said type of filters includes an activated carbon filters and Nano-fiber filters.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a motorized ball and socket joint 203 installed between each of said filters and sliding units 202 that actuates to regulate angle of said evaluated filter to position in contact with said user’s mouth and nose.

5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein an inflatable tube 204 is configured over periphery of each of said filters that are linked with an air compressor arranged with said member 101 that is actuated by said microcontroller to inflate said tube 204 to affix said deployed filter with said user’s mouth and nose.

6) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a computing unit installed with a user interface and accessed by registered user(s) to make a profile save corresponding information regarding facial features and personal preference regarding temperature that is saved in a database associated with said microcontroller.

7) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein an artificial intelligence based imaging unit 106 installed over said member 101 and integrated with a facial recognition module for capturing and processing images of said user, based on which said microcontroller determines facial features of said user and match with said pre-saved facial features saved in said database for verification of said user.

8) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein in case said user via said computing unit provide command regarding filtering of said filters, said microcontroller accordingly actuates a vibration unit 205 installed within said chamber 104 to produce vibration simultaneous to actuation of plurality of air nozzles installed within said chamber 104 to dispense air over said filters with high pressure to remove said dust from said filters that gets collected in a box 206 arranged beneath said chamber 104 via multiple pores 207 crafted at bottom portion of said chamber 104.

9) The device as claimed in claim 1 and 6, wherein a UV (Ultra-Violet)-C light installed with said member 101 and actuates only in case of detection of absence of said user via said imaging unit 106 to emit UV light over said member 101 for disinfection of said member 101.