Determining effluent concentration profiles and service lives of air purifying respirator cartridges

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates generally to systems and methods for determining the concentration profiles of exhaust streams.

[0002] Determining the service life of filter cartridges or filter beds in filter cartridges of air-purifying respirators is a regulatory requirement in the United States. Furthermore, many air-purifying respirator users want replacement data and / or life estimate calculations. Change data may include, for example, a schedule when the cartridges in air purifying respirators should be replaced or replaced with new cartridges. Calculating the estimated service life may include determining how long the cartridges in the air-purifying respirator should last. Both the changeover data and the estimated service life may be based, in whole or in part, on the introduction of the conditions under which the cartridges and breathing apparatus are used.

[0003] Known methods and systems used to determine replacement data and calculate the service life of filter cartridges for air-purifying respirator have several drawbacks. For example, known systems and methods do not provide a graphical result of the effluent concentration profile, breakthrough time, or service life of the filter cartridge. Moreover, these systems and methods do not provide a dynamic calculation of the effluent concentration profile, breakthrough time, or life span based on dynamically changing user input. In addition, to the extent that these systems and methods determine breakthrough or lifetime, the mathematical models on which the breakthrough or lifetime is based do not accurately determine the breakthrough or lifetime of many pollutants, including many relatively low molecular weight pollutants and / or low boiling points.

International Publication No. WO2009 / 029326, which is believed to represent the closest prior art, discloses a method and an associated system for determining the state of an item coupled to a PPE article, the method comprising providing at least one detachably engaging member. way with article of personal protective equipment; providing a smart tag coupled to the item or article; item usage tracking, said tracking includes fetching data from the smart tag; and determining the item status based on comparing the tracked item data with at least one predetermined criteria.

[0005] There is therefore a need for a system and method for determining replacement data and life calculations for air-purifying respirator cartridges that provide graphical output data for exhaust gas concentration profiles, allow for dynamic life calculation calculations, and are based on more accurate models.

SHORT DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING FIGURES

[0006] In accordance with a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a method for determining the concentration profile of an effluent according to claim 1. 1.

[0007] The present invention further provides a system for determining the concentration profile of the effluent according to Claim 1. 4.

EP 2 285 451 B1

For a good understanding of the invention, some embodiments will now be described, given by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Fig. 1 shows a block diagram of a system for calculating the concentration of an outlet stream according to the invention;

Fig. 2 shows a graphical user interface used to input one or more parameters into the system shown in Fig. 1 and to display the output shown in Fig. 1 to a user according to one embodiment;

Fig. 3 shows a graphical user interface used to input one or more parameters into the system shown in Fig. 1 in accordance with one embodiment;

Fig. 4 is a flowchart for a method for determining an effluent concentration profile according to the invention;

Fig. 5 is a block diagram of example methods in which one or more of the embodiments described herein may be stored, distributed, and installed on a computer readable medium; and

Fig. 6 shows an exploded view of a filter cartridge according to an embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] The above summary as well as the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments of the invention will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. To the extent that the figures represent functional block diagrams of various embodiments, the functional blocks do not necessarily indicate a partition between the hardware circuitry. Accordingly, for example, one or more functional blocks (e.g., processors or memory) may be implemented in one piece of hardware (e.g., general purpose signal processor or dynamic memory, hard disk, or the like). Similarly, programs can be standalone programs, they can be included as routines in the operating system, they can be functions in an installed software package, and the like. It should be understood that the various embodiments are not limited to the systems and tools shown in the drawings.

[0010] As used herein, an element or step listed in the singular and continued with "some" or "one" is to be understood as not excluding the plural of said elements or steps, unless such exclusion is explicitly stated. Furthermore, reference to "one embodiment" of the present invention is not to be construed as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate the features mentioned. In addition, unless expressly stated otherwise, embodiments "comprising" or "having" an element or set of elements having a particular property may include additional such elements that do not have that property.

[0011] It should be noted that while one or more embodiments may be described in conjunction with a filter cartridge for air-purifying respirator, the embodiments described herein are not limited to air-purifying respirators. Specifically, one or more embodiments may be implemented in conjunction with various types of filter systems, including, for example, air filtration systems for buildings. Moreover, while one or more embodiments may be described as being implemented by one or more computing devices or systems, the embodiments described herein are not limited to systems.

EP 2 285 451 B1 and computer-based methods. In particular, one or more embodiments may be implemented in conjunction with non-computer-based devices and methods. For example, while one embodiment includes calculating the breakthrough time or life of the filter cartridge based on one or more user input parameters into the computer system, the breakthrough time or life may be calculated using a slider or pie calculator. A slider rule or a circular calculator can provide a breakthrough time or lifetime based on various known inputs.

[0012] Examples of systems and methods for computing and displaying information are described in detail below. More particularly, a detailed description is provided of exemplary systems and methods for dynamically determining and displaying effluent concentration profiles, breakthrough times, and filter cartridge recommendations. The technical effect of one or more of the embodiments described herein includes at least one of a graphical representation of the breakthrough time and / or the effluent concentration profile based on one or more user input parameters, dynamically adjusting the breakthrough time and / or the effluent concentration profile based on changed input from the user, recommending a filter cartridge to the user based on the user input and dynamically changing the recommended filter cartridge based on the changed user input.

[0013] Fig. 6 is an exploded view of a filter cartridge 600 according to an embodiment. Filter cartridge 600 includes upper and lower bodies 602, 604 that include filter bed 606. Filter bed 606 may include, for example, activated carbon impregnated with one or more chemicals. The collection of additional filter layers 608, 610 may include additional activated carbon layers. Retainers 612, 614 can retain the filter layers 608, 610 within the filter cartridge 600. The screen 616 mechanically filters the aerosol particles that pass through the filter cartridge 600. A sealing member 618 and an adhesive 620 are provided to seal the filter cartridge 600 in an assembled condition. In operation, the air passes through the inlet port 622 in the lower body 604 and passes through filter layers 608, 610 and filter bed 606. As air passes through filter layers 608, 610 and filter bed 606, one or more chemical contaminants in the air may be filtered or adsorbed onto the material in filter layers 608, 610 and / or filter bed 606. Filtered air passes through filter cartridge 600 and exits. from filter cartridge 600 through opening 624 in upper body 602. The filtered air can then be passed on to the user, for example, through one or more lines or tubes. The efficiency of filter bed 606 may decline with continued use. For example, as more and more contaminated air passes through filter bed 606 and / or as higher concentrations of chemical contaminants pass through filter bed 606, filter bed 606 becomes less effective at filtering out chemical contaminants. Ultimately, the concentration of chemical contaminants passing through filter bed 606 may exceed the maximum allowable concentration. The time at which this occurs may be referred to as the breakthrough time or life of the filter cartridge 600. After the breakthrough time or life of the filter cartridge 600 has elapsed, the filter cartridge 600 may no longer be suitable for protecting the user from chemical contamination.

[0014] Fig. 1 shows a block diagram for a system 100 for calculating the concentration of an effluent stream in accordance with one embodiment. System 100 includes a processor module 102 that receives, between

In other words, the user input 104 on the user interface 106 and defines at least one of the effluent concentration profile 204 (shown in Fig. 2 and embodying the invention), breakthrough time 206 (shown in Fig. 2, and out of range). of the invention) and filter cartridge recommendations 240 (shown in Fig. 2 and outside the scope of the invention). The effluent concentration profile 204 comprises a graphical representation of the concentration of one or more chemicals that pass through the filter cartridge of the filter cartridge over time. In one embodiment, the concentration profile 204 of the effluent shows the concentration of one or more chemicals at one end of filter bed 606 (shown in Fig. 6) with respect to time. For example, the concentration profile 204 of the effluent represents the chemical grade concentration at the end of the filter bed 606 that is closest to the opening 624 (shown in Fig. 6) in the upper body 602 (shown in Fig. 6) of the filter cartridge 600 (shown in Fig. 6). ). In such an example, the concentration profile 204 of the effluent represents the approximate concentration of chemicals that are passing through the filter cartridge 600 to the user of the filter cartridge 600. The breakthrough time 206 is the time it takes a given concentration of one or more chemicals to break through the filter cartridge from the surrounding environment and reach the user of the filter cartridge. Filter cartridge recommendation 240 includes one or more filter cartridges recommended to a user based on a user-specified criterion.

[0015] In another embodiment, processor module 102 receives input 104 from a user on the user interface 106 and determines a bed profile. The bed profile is a graphical representation of the concentration of one or more chemicals in filter bed 606 (shown in Fig. 6) with respect to position in filter bed 606. For example, the bed profile may graphically represent the concentration of the chemical in the filter bed 606 with respect to different positions in the thickness of the filter bed 606 at any given time. Processor module 102 determines the bed profile for different times in one embodiment. The movement of chemicals through filter bed 606 can then be visualized by comparing the plurality of bed profiles generated by the processor module 102 over increasing time periods.

[0016] The processor module 102 and the user interface 106 are directly or indirectly communicatively coupled to each other via one or more wired, wireless, or network connections (such as LAN, WAN, Internet, or intranet). The user interface 106 comprises a device, system, or apparatus capable of passing one or more input parameters and passing the input parameters as input 104 to the processor module 102. For example, user interface 106 may include one or more of a keyboard, mouse, stylus, touch screen, microphone, and the like. In another example, user interface 106 includes a standalone computing device such as a personal computer (PC), laptop, smartphone, and the like. In one embodiment, the processor module 102 and the user interface 106 communicate with each other over one or more network connections (including the Internet). For example, system 100 may be an internet system that uses a web browser as the user interface 106.

[0017] In the illustrated embodiment, the processor module 102 is communicatively coupled to a computer-readable storage medium 110. The computer-readable storage medium 110 may include one or more computer-readable memories capable of storing data, such as a hard disk, RAM, ROM, memory, etc. flash drive, CD drive, DVD drive and the like. The computer readable storage medium 110 may communicate directly or indirectly

EP 2 285 451 B1 with processor module 102 over one or more wired, wireless, or network connections (such as LAN, WAN, Internet, or intranet). In another embodiment, the plurality of computer readable storage media are communicatively coupled to processor module 102. For example, the additional computer readable storage medium 112 may be communicatively coupled to processor module 102. The computer readable storage medium 112 may include a database 114 that stores one or more parameters useful by the processor module 102 to derive at least one of the exhaust stream concentration profile 204 (shown in Fig. 2), the breakthrough time 206 (shown in Fig. 2). ) and filter cartridge recommendation 240 (shown in Fig. 2).

The processor module 102 is communicatively coupled to the output device 108. The output device 108 includes a device, system or apparatus capable of receiving a concentration profile 204 of the outlet stream, the breakthrough time 206, a filter cartridge recommendation 240, a bed profile and / or a profile representative of the given data. the concentration of the effluent 204, the breakthrough time 206, the recommendations of the filter cartridge 240 and / or the bed profile, and is presented to the user. For example, the output device 108 may include a CRT display, a printer, a mobile display unit such as a Palm Pilot, a cellular telephone, Blackberry, and the like, computer memory, an LCD screen, and the like. In one embodiment, processor module 102 and output device 108 communicate with each other over one or more network connections (including the Internet). For example, system 100 may be a web-based system that uses a web browser as the output device 108. Processor module 102 communicates the effluent concentration profile 204, breakthrough time 206, filter cartridge recommendation 240, and / or data representing the same output 120 to the device. output 108. The processor module 102 assembly, user interface 106, and output device 108 are physically separate components of the system 100 in one embodiment. Alternatively, a plurality of processor modules 102, user interface 106, and output device 108 are combined into a single component. For example, processor module 102 and output device 108 may be provided as one or more microprocessors and the LCD screen disposed within the breathing apparatus.

[0019] In one embodiment, the processor module 102 is communicatively coupled to an active sensor 116. The active sensor 116 comprises a powered device configured to detect or measure data related to one or more parameters. The data or parameters are used by the processor module 102 to determine at least one of the effluent concentration profile 204, the breakthrough time 206, and the filter cartridge recommendation 240. Processor module 102 and active sensor 116 may be directly or indirectly connected via one or more wired, wireless, or network connections (such as LAN, WAN, Internet, or intranet). Active sensor 116 may proactively report measured or detected data to processor module 102 as input 122. For example, active sensor 116 may be a powered sensor capable of communicating the parameters of processor module 102 as input 122.

[0020] In one embodiment, the processor module 102 is communicatively coupled to a passive sensor 118. The passive sensor 118 comprises a de-energized device configured to detect data related to one or more parameters. The data or parameters are used by the processor module 102 to determine at least one of the effluent concentration profile 204, the breakthrough time 206, and the filter cartridge recommendation 240. Processor module 102

The EP 2 285 451 B1 and passive sensor 118 may be directly or indirectly connected via one or more wired, wireless, or network connections (such as LAN, WAN, Internet, or intranet). Processor module 102 may measure data or parameters from passive sensor 118 as input 124.

Processor module 102 includes a plurality of sub-modules including a preferred filter cartridge sub-module 126, outlet stream concentration profile sub-module 128, breakthrough time sub-module 130, and output sub-module 132. Processor module 102 is conceptually represented as a collection of sub-modules 126 through 132, but may be be implemented with the use of any combination of dedicated hardware cards, DSP processors, processors, etc. Alternatively, the processor module 102 and / or the sub-modules 126 through 132 may be implemented using a turnkey PC with a single processor or set of processors, with functional operations distributed among the processors. As a further option, sub-modules 126 through 132 may be implemented using a hybrid configuration in which some modular functions are performed using dedicated hardware while the remaining modular functions are performed using a finished PC and the like. The sub-modules 126 through 132 may also be implemented as software modules in a processing unit.

[0022] The operations of the sub-modules 126 through 132 may be controlled by the processor module 102. The sub-modules 126 through 132 may perform, for example, intermediate processor operations. Preferred filter cartridge sub-module 126 receives one or more input parameters (described below), accesses any list, table, database, etc., available filter cartridges, and recommends one or more filter cartridges in the list based on the input parameters. For example, the user may enter several criteria for the filter cartridge as one or more of the input parameters described below. The preferred filter cartridge sub-module 126 adopts these criteria and refines the list of all potential filter cartridges. Based on these criteria and the rest of the filter cartridges, the preferred filter cartridge sub-module 126 selects one or more filter cartridges for recommendation to the user. An initial list of installable filter cartridges may be stored on at least one computer readable storage medium 110, 112.

[0023] The effluent concentration profile ("ECP") sub-module 128 receives one or more input parameters (described below) and calculates the effluent concentration profile or curve 204 (shown in Fig. 2) and / or the bed profile. . For example, the user may enter several parameters to calculate the effluent concentration profile for the filter cartridge in an environment with one or more chemical contaminants at one or more concentrations. The ECP 128 receives these parameters and calculates an effluent concentration profile 204 based on the parameters and one or more mathematical models to compute an effluent concentration profile 204 based on the parameters. In one embodiment, the ECP 128 sub-module obtains one or more default values ​​for any parameters or variables required by the mathematical model used to calculate the concentration profile 204 of the effluent, but which is not input by the user. For example, the ECP 128 sub-module may derive default values ​​for any non-user input variables from one or more computer readable storage media 110, 112.

[0024] The breakthrough sub-module 130 receives one or more input parameters (described below) and calculates a breakthrough time 206 (shown in Fig. 2). For example, the user may enter

There are several parameters for calculating the service life of the filter cartridge in an environment with one or more chemical contaminants at one or more concentrations. The breakthrough sub-module 130 receives these parameters and calculates a breakthrough time 206 from the parameters and one or more mathematical models for calculating a breakthrough time 206 from the parameters. In one embodiment, the breakthrough sub-module 130 obtains one or more default values ​​for any parameters or variables required by the mathematical model used to calculate the breakthrough time 206, but which is not input by the user. For example, the breakthrough sub-module 130 may derive default values ​​for any non-user input variables from one or more computer readable storage media 110, 112.

Output sub-module 132 provides the output of one or more sub-modules 126 through 130 (described above) to output device 108 as output 120. Output sub-module 132 can cause output 120 to graphically display output 120, print output 120, or otherwise communicate the output 120 to the user of system 100.

[0026] In operation, the processor module 102 receives one or more parameters and uses these parameters to generate the exhaust stream concentration profile 204, the breakthrough time 206, the bed profile at one or more time points, and / or the filter cartridge recommendation 240. In a first operating mode, referred to as the life cycle calculation mode, the processor module 102 acquires or receives one or more parameters for determining one or more effluent concentration profiles 204 and breakthrough time 206. In the second operating mode, referred to as filter cartridge selection mode, the processor module 102 obtains or receives one or more parameters to determine a preferred filter cartridge. Processor module 102 may perform both the life cycle calculation mode and the filter cartridge selection mode simultaneously or separately.

[0027] In the life calculation mode, the effluent concentration profile 204 or breakthrough time 206 may be used to represent the life of the filter cartridge based on the parameters. For example, based on the input parameters, the processor module 102 can determine how long the filter cartridge can be used before one or more chemical contaminants penetrate the filter at an unsafe level and reach the user. The input parameters used by the processor module 102 in the life cycle calculation mode include, but are not limited to, one or more conditions of use parameters. The conditions of use parameters include data or information on how the filter cartridge is or will be used. For example, the conditions of use parameters may include, but are not limited to, one or more types of cartridges, chemical contamination, chemical concentration, occupational exposure limit, and site condition.

[0028] The type of the filter cartridge is the type of the filter cartridge that is being used or to be used. For example, the type of filter cartridge that is desired by the user to be included in the breathing apparatus may be entered by the user at the user interface 106 and sent to the processor module 102 as input 104. In another example, active sensor 116 may determine which filter cartridge is used by the user and communicate the type of filter cartridge to processor module 102 as input 122. In another example, the type of filter cartridge may be determined by processor module 102 based on user preference for a particular type. breathing apparatus and / or a specific level of protection against solid particles. The type of breathing apparatus may include the make and / or model of the breathing apparatus,

In which a filter cartridge is used or will be used. The particulate protection level may include the amount of chemical particles that the user can allow to pass through the filter cartridge to the user. The type of respirator and / or the level of protection against particulate matter may be input by the user via the user interface 106 and provided as input 104. Alternatively, the type of breathing apparatus may be determined by one or more active sensors 116 and 118 and passed to processor module 102 as inputs 122, 124. Depending on the type of breathing apparatus and / or the level of protection against particulates, processor module 102 may narrow down the list of all potential filter cartridges available to the user. The list of available filter cartridges may be stored on one or more computer-readable storage media 110, 112. Processor module 102 may access the list and eliminate those filter cartridges that do not meet criteria determined by the type of breathing apparatus and / or protection level against particulate matter. . For example, some of the filter cartridges in the list may not function as the breathing apparatus entry into processor module 102. Based on the narrowed list of potential filter cartridges, processor module 102 can determine the effluent concentration profile 204 and / or breakthrough time 206 for one or more filter cartridges in the narrowed list. Alternatively, processor module 102 may present the narrowed list of filter cartridges to the user at the output device 108. The user may then select one or more filter cartridges from the list via the user interface 106.

[0029] A chemical contaminant is one or more chemical compounds to be filtered through the filter cartridge. Chemical contaminants can include those chemicals that are detected by passive and / or active sensors 118, 116 and communicated to the processor module 102 as inputs 124, 122. Alternatively, chemical contaminants may include those chemicals that are input by the user through the user interface 106 and provided as input 104.

[0030] The chemical concentration is the concentration of one or more chemical contaminants in the environment in which the filter cartridge is or will be used. For example, the chemical concentration can be a vapor, liquid, and / or aerosol concentration. The chemical concentration may include concentrations that are detected by passive and / or active sensors 118, 116 and communicated to the processor module 102 as inputs 124, 122. Alternatively, the chemical concentration may include the concentration of these chemicals entered by the user through the user interface 106 and provided as input 104. In another embodiment, the chemical concentration is the maximum concentration of one or more chemical contaminants that pass or break through the filter cartridge. This maximum concentration can be referred to as the breakthrough concentration. Processor module 102 may be given a default value for the chemical concentration parameter. For example, the processor module 102 may default to the concentration of a user input chemical contaminant from one or more computer readable storage media 110, 112. The default value of a chemical concentration parameter may be associated with one or more other user input parameters. For example, the default chemical concentration value may be different for different chemical contaminants and / or types of user input cartridges. Association of different default values ​​for one or more chemical concentration parameters

EP 2 285 451 B1 and user input parameters may be stored in a table, database, or other memory structure on at least one computer-readable storage medium 110, 112.

[0031] An occupational exposure limit includes one or more limits on the amount or concentration of one or more chemical pollutants in the environment in which the filter cartridge is to be used. For example, an occupational exposure limit may be a legal limit on the amount or concentration of a chemical pollutant to which a person may be exposed during a given time period. The occupational exposure limit may be entered by the user on the user interface 106 and provided as input 104. Alternatively, the occupational exposure limit may be stored on a computer-readable storage medium 110 and / or 112 and derived therefrom by the processor module 102. Processor module 102 may obtain the default value for the occupational exposure limit parameter. For example, processor module 102 may derive a default value for an occupational exposure limit value from one or more computer-readable storage media 110, 112. The default value for an occupational exposure limit parameter may be associated with one or more other user input parameters. For example, the default value used for the occupational exposure limit may be different for different chemical pollutants and / or types of user-inserted cartridges. The association of the various default values ​​of the occupational exposure limit parameter and one or more other input parameters from the user may be stored in a table, database, or other memory structure on at least one computer-readable storage medium 110, 112.

[0032] The location condition parameter includes one or more parameters relevant to the environment in which the filter cartridge is used or will be used. For example, ambient pressure, temperature, and / or relative humidity may be sent to the processor module 102 as a site condition parameter. In one embodiment, the respiration rate is communicated to the processor module 102 as a site condition parameter. Breathing rate is a user desired respiration rate or is a measured respiration rate of a user who is currently using a particular filter cartridge. At least one of the localization conditions may be input by the user at user interface 106 and provided to processor module 102 as input 104. In one embodiment, active and / or passive sensors 116, 118 measure or detect one or more site conditions and the site conditions are received by processor module 102 as inputs 122 and / or 124. Processor module 102 may obtain default values ​​for one or more of the site conditions. more parameters of site conditions. For example, processor module 102 may default to ambient pressure, temperature, relative humidity, and / or respiration rate from one or more computer-readable storage media 110, 112. A default location condition parameter value may be associated with one or more parameters entered by user. Different default values ​​for one or more site condition parameters may be associated with different chemical contaminants and / or types of user input cartridges. For example, the default value used for the respiration rate may be different for different chemical contaminants and / or types of cartridge inserted by the user. The association of different default values ​​for one or more location state parameters and user inputs may be stored in a table, database, or other storage structure on at least one computer-readable storage medium 110, 112.

EP 2 285 451 B1

[0033] In one embodiment, the user enters a confidence level that is associated with one or more parameters. For example, a user may enter a 5% confidence level for one or more of ambient pressure, respiration rate, temperature, relative humidity, chemical concentration, and the like. Other confidence levels can be entered by the user. Generally, a higher confidence level indicates that the user is less confident about the numerical value of the input parameter. For example, a 5% confidence level for the input temperature parameter of 27 degrees Celsius (80 degrees Fahrenheit) indicates that the user believes the temperature parameter is between 24 and 29 degrees Celsius (76 to 84 degrees Fahrenheit). By comparison, the 10% confidence level for the 27 degrees Celsius (80 degrees Fahrenheit) temperature parameter indicates that the user believes the temperature parameter is 22 to 31 degrees Celsius (72 to 88 degrees Fahrenheit).

[0034] In the lifetime calculation mode, the processor module 102 receives one or more usage condition parameters and, based on the parameters and one or more mathematical models applied to the parameters, generates an effluent concentration profile 204 and / or a breakthrough time 206. The effluent concentration profile 204 and the breakthrough time 206 may be used to determine how long a given user can use the cartridge in an environment and the method of use described by the parameters of use conditions. For example, for a given type of filter cartridge for use in an environment with specific chemical contaminants at a given concentration, the effluent concentration profile 204 and / or breakthrough time 206 can be used to determine how long the cartridge can be used in the environment before one or more chemical contaminants. it will pierce the filter cartridge and reach the user.

[0035] In one embodiment, the processor module 102 does not determine the exhaust stream concentration profile 204 and / or breakthrough time 206 until a minimum number or number of usage condition parameters are received by the processor module 102. For example, processor module 102 may not determine the effluent concentration profile 204 and / or breakthrough time 206 until the filter cartridge type, chemical contamination (chemical contaminants), and chemical concentration (chemical concentrations) are received by processor module 102. In one embodiment, the processor module 102 obtains default values ​​for any other parameters or variables that are required to generate the effluent concentration profile 204 and / or breakthrough time 206. These default values ​​may be obtained from one or more computer-readable storage media 110. , 112.

Processor module 102 communicates the bed profile, effluent concentration profile 204 and / or breakthrough time 206 (or data representative of either) to the output device 108 as output 120. The output device 108 provides the effluent concentration profile 204 and / or or the breakthrough time 206 to the user. For example, the output device 108 may display the effluent concentration 204 profile and / or breakthrough time 206 plotted on the graph. Alternatively, the output device 108 may display the effluent concentration profile 204 and / or breakthrough time 206 as a tabular report provided to the user. In one embodiment, processor module 102 determines the effluent concentration profile 204 and / or breakthrough time 206, and the output device 108 presents the same to the user. The user may then modify, change, or add parameters to the processor module 102. Processor module 102 then determines an updated version of the exhaust stream concentration profile 204 and / or breakthrough time 206, and the output device 108

EP 2 285 451 B1 presents the same to the user. For example, the user may change parameters entered into processor module 102 and processor module 102 dynamically changes or updates the effluent concentration profile 204 and / or breakthrough time 206 in response thereto. By updating the effluent concentration profile 204 and / or breakthrough time 206, the user can then visually see the effect of changing one or more parameters on the effluent concentration profile 204 and / or breakthrough time 206.

In one embodiment, the processor module 102 determines at least one of a bed profile, exit stream concentration profile 204 and / or breakthrough time 206 (or data representative of any of the bed profiles, effluent concentration profiles 204, and / or breakthrough times). 206) for each set of chemicals or chemical contaminants and outputs this to the output device 108 as output 120. The output device 108 displays a plurality of bed profiles, effluent concentration profiles 204, and / or breakthrough times 206. For example, multiple effluent concentration profiles 204 may be displayed in a single plot, with each effluent concentration profile 204 representing the concentration of various chemicals. or contamination. Alternatively, the processor module 102 determines and the output device 108 displays at least one bed profile, an effluent concentration profile 204 and / or a breakthrough time 206 for each of a number of different parameter scenarios. The parameter scenario contains a set of user input parameters. The different parameter scenarios may include different permutations of the potential user input parameters. For example, the different parameter scenarios may include one or more different chemical contaminants, different sets of chemical contaminants, different filter cartridges, and the like. The user can then visually compare the bed profiles, effluent concentration profiles 204, and / or breakthrough times 206 for different chemical contaminants and / or parameter scenarios at the same time.

[0038] Many parameter scenarios are recorded and stored on one or more computer readable storage media, and are accessible to the processor module 102 in one embodiment. For example, several parameter scenarios may be stored on a computer-readable storage medium 110. The user may select one or more parameter scenarios to be transmitted to processor module 102. The parameters of the parameter scenario may be transferred to the output device 108 and presented to the user. Processor module 102 may then use one or more parameters in a user-selected parameter scenario to determine the bed profile, outlet stream concentration profile 204, and / or breakthrough time 206. In one embodiment, the user selects a parameter scenario previously entered and saved by another user, and then modifies one or more parameters in the parameter scenario, adds additional parameters to the parameter scenario, and / or removes one or more parameters from the parameter scenario. Processor module 102 may then determine the effluent concentration profile 204, for example, from this modified parameter scenario.

In one embodiment, the processor module 102 determines at least one of a bed profile, exit stream concentration profile 204, and / or breakthrough time 206 (or data representative of any one of the bed profiles, effluent concentration profiles 204, and / or breakthrough times) 206) for one or more values ​​of the input parameter, where the values ​​fall within the range of values,

Those that are within the confidence level for this input parameter. For example, if the user enters the temperature parameter as 27 degrees Celsius (80 degrees Fahrenheit) with a confidence level of 5%, then the processor module 102 may define a set of bed profiles, outlet stream concentration profiles 204, and / or breakthrough times 206 for a set of values ​​that fit within 5% of 27 degrees Celsius (80 degrees Fahrenheit). The set of bed profiles, outlet stream concentration profiles 204 and / or breakthrough times 206 may be displayed simultaneously at the output device 108. Alternatively, the processor module 102 determines a bed profile, effluent concentration profile 204 and / or breakthrough time 206 for the parameter values ​​within the confidence level that provides the safest or most conservative of various bed profiles, effluent concentration profiles 204, and / or breakthrough times 206. which are determined using the range of parameter values ​​that fall within the confidence range. For example, the processor module 102 can determine that for a temperature parameter of 27 degrees Celsius (80 degrees Fahrenheit) with a confidence level of 5% or 24 to 29 degrees Celsius (76 to 84 degrees Fahrenheit), the shortest breakthrough 206 for a set of temperatures from 24 to 84 degrees Fahrenheit. 29 degrees Celsius (76 to 84 degrees Fahrenheit) occurs at a temperature parameter of 29 degrees Celsius (84 degrees Fahrenheit). In such an example, the processor module 102 communicates the shortest of the breakthrough times 206 to the output device 108 for presentation to the user. Processor module 102 can therefore determine and the output device 108 can represent a conservative bed profile, effluent concentration profile 204, and / or breakthrough time 206 as a safety limit based on the user's confidence level.

The effluent concentration profile 204, the breakthrough time 206, and / or one or more of the bed profiles at multiple time points can be calculated by any of a number of mathematical models that use one or more of the input parameters described above to determine the effluent concentration profile 24. , breakthrough time 206 and / or bed profiles. For example, in one embodiment, a new model is used to determine the concentration profile 204 of the effluent. This model, referred to as the Ding model, includes two hypotheses about the adsorption process: (a) in a well-developed, continuously fed adsorption process, the dimensionless chemical potential can vary exponentially with position within the bed; and (b) the concentration wave velocity accelerates from sometimes when the wave comes out of the deposit (called evolves). The Ding model may be able to fit experimental data over a wide range of concentrations by several orders of magnitude. The Ding model can be used as a prognostic tool, taking into account the adsorption equilibrium and the sensitivity of both parameters to specific operating conditions. The Ding model can also be applied to adsorptive and reactive processes in air purification processes. The Ding model can be used to overcome several disadvantages of the existing model. For example, the Ding model can be used to calculate the service life at different levels of toxicity, at different load concentrations, and at different remaining service times. The Ding model can be used to estimate the adsorption bed profile at various times to facilitate filter design. The Ding model can more accurately calculate effluent concentration profiles and / or breakthrough times for relatively low molecular weight chemical pollutants and / or boiling points.

In one embodiment, the mathematical model used to calculate the effluent concentration profiles and / or breakthrough times is based on a combination of user input parameters (as described above) and the physical properties of the contaminants.

ΕΡ 2 285 451 Β1 chemicals to be filtered. Chemical contaminants can be introduced by the user as described above. The physical properties of the chemical pollutants can be obtained from a computer-readable storage medium such as one or more computer-readable storage media 110, 112. For example, computer readable storage medium 112 may contain a database that stores the appropriate physical properties of the chemical contaminants introduced by the user. The database may also contain data on the physical properties of other relevant chemicals and compounds. For example, a database can store data on the physical properties of water and atmospheric air. The physical property database can be one or more of a public database, a private database, and a custom database. In relation to a public database, the database may be a publicly accessible database accessible via the internet. A private database may be a database that can be accessed by a limited number of users. For example, a private database might be an intranet database that can only be accessed by users who are authenticated with a login and password. For example, a custom database may be a database that obtains physical property data from a public and / or private database but that organizes and / or filters the data in a non-standard manner.

[0042] For example, a database may contain one or more properties for each chemical contaminant that the user may select. These properties include, but are not limited to, one or more of a Chemical Abstracts Service ("CAS") registry number, chemical formula, molecular weight, liquid density (e.g., grams per cubic centimeter), molecular polarity (e.g. in Pe), water solubility, vapor model (for example model 0 or model 1), one or more vapor models A, B and C, chemical name, nickname or alias, Immediately Dangerous limit to Life and Health - "IDLH") (for example in parts per million), Recommended Exposure Limit ("REL") (for example in parts per million), Permissible Exposure Limit - "PEL" (for example, parts per million), Threshold Limit Value ("TLV") (for example, parts per million), and a comment. The comment may contain any additional relevant information. In one embodiment, the Model 0 of the pair model may be the Antoine format pair model and described by the following equation:

logio P, bar = A- (Eq. 15)

C + 1, K.

Model 1 of the pair model can be the Antoine format pair model and described by the following equation:

ta P, torr -A - (Eq. 16)

C + T, K.

The properties of the chemicals may be entered by the administrator of system 100. In one embodiment, one or more of the chemical properties are obtained from the NIST online manual available at http://webbook.nist.gov/. One or more of the chemical properties can be obtained from the NIOSH IDLH guide or website, available at http: //www.cdc.aov/niosh/idlh/intridl4.html. If a specific property is not available in the database and not provided by the user, the system may issue an audible and / or visual warning to the user.

ΕΡ 2 285 451 Β1

[0043] The Ding Model defines the chemical contaminant chemical potential difference to be filtered by the filter cartridge as:

φ - φ_} _ In C * ~ rf “ll> G (Equation 1) where Φ is the difference between the local chemical potential of the chemical contamination in the filter bed of the filter cartridge and the chemical potential of the chemical contamination in the charge concentration or the concentration in the environment in which the filter cartridge is used; ę> is the chemical potential of chemical contamination at the site in the filter bed; <pt is the chemical potential of the chemical contaminant at the feed concentration; φ₀ is the chemical potential of a wave front chemical pollutant, or breakthrough curve front, of a chemical pollutant where the chemical pollutant passes through the filter bed. What is defined as the concentration of the chemical contaminant at the face of the breakthrough curve. C * and Co * are defined as dimensionless variables relating to an essentially constant or constant feed concentration (Cf). The chemical potential can be defined as follows:

φ = BTln.C _{/ n}, ^r (Rown. 2)

[0044] In one embodiment, the front of the breakthrough curve may be arbitrarily defined so as to effectively eliminate the influence of any clean regions of the filter bed, or regions in which there is essentially no chemical contaminant concentration. In such an embodiment, the dimensionless position (ζ) of the chemical contaminant and the dimensionless time (τ) associated with the specific position of the chemical contaminant in the filter bed can be determined as follows:

<img file="PL2285451T3_D0001.tif" />

<img file="PL2285451T3_D0002.tif" />

(Eq. 3) (Eq. 4) where z is the position or location in the filter bed expressed in meters; zo is the position of the breakthrough front face in the filter bed, expressed in meters; with_ref is the reference position in the filter bed expressed in meters; t is the time expressed in seconds; that is the time in seconds at which the breakthrough front face is at z in the filter bed; and club is the reference time in seconds. In one embodiment, at the head of the breakthrough wave, both the cobra value ζ and the time τ are zero, and the concentration (C) of the chemical contaminant at the breakthrough wave front is Co as described above. In this embodiment, at the reference point, both the position (ζ) and the time (τ) are 1 and the concentration (C) is the reference concentration (Cref). As time (τ) increases and approaches infinity (), concentration (C) is equal to the reference concentration (Cref).

[0045] If the filter cartridge remains in an environment that contains chemical contamination or a continuous supply of chemical contamination is in progress, Φ or the difference between the local chemical potential of the chemical contamination in the filter bed of the filter cartridge and the potential

ΕΡ 2 285 451 Β1 chemical contamination in the charge concentration changes with its position in the filter bed. The change in Φ can be represented as follows:

In φ '= £ In f ^s (Eq. 5) where Φ_ΓΘ(is the difference between the chemical potential of the chemical contaminant in the filter bed in the reference position and the chemical potential of the chemical contaminant having the load concentration.

[0046] When the chemical contamination wave exits the filter bed in the filter cartridge, the position of the wave may accelerate as a function of time. The speed at which the wave exits the filter bed can vary with time, as follows:

, φ। ____ λ ™ (1¹¹ — ¹ (Eq. 6) where v * is the velocity and zeta (ς) is the acceleration factor called the "cobra value". Zeta (ς) It is defined as the cobra value because of the cobra-like shape of the outlet stream concentration profile 204 (shown in Fig. 2) for many chemical impurities. In one embodiment, waves of chemical contaminants that exit the filter bed at substantially constant or slowing speeds (v *) have cobra (ς) values ​​of less than 1, while waves that exit the filter bed at accelerating velocities (v *) have cobra (ς) values ​​that are greater than 1. One or more cobra (ς) values ​​can be determined empirically from data or user input. For example, a list of cobra (ς) values ​​can be determined from experimental data and stored on at least one computer-readable storage medium 110, 112 that is accessed by the processor module 102.

[0047] Accordingly, the position (ζ) of the chemical contamination can be represented as follows:

/ --- λ ~ (Eq. 7)

Substituting equation 6 into equation 4 gives the following relationship:

In Φ '= lii ^J. (Eq. 8)

[0048] Equation 7 is used with the Ding model to represent a general form of the bed profile, and may be used alone or in combination with one or more of the other equations described herein to produce an effluent concentration profile. For example, the concentration of chemical contaminants at the end of filter bed 606 (shown in Fig. 6) that is closest to opening 624 (shown in Fig. 6) of filter cartridge 600 (shown in Fig. 6). 6) Can be calculated using the Ding model for many time moments. The concentration of chemical contaminants at the end of filter bed 606 may then be plotted versus time to represent the concentration of chemical contaminants that pierce filter bed 606.

[0049] The stoichiometric time (ts) of the Ding model can be determined from:

vol_e = t₀ + / (i - c ^ dt -1₀ + / (and - (¹ ] dt

JJ

ΕΡ 2 285 451 Β1

[0050] In one embodiment, the reference point used in Equation 7 is arbitrarily defined. For example, for any point 1 in the effluent concentration profile similar to the effluent concentration profile 204, Equation 8 takes the form:

<img file="PL2285451T3_D0003.tif" />

Using equation 8, the reference point can be represented as follows:

<img file="PL2285451T3_D0004.tif" />

where superscript 'is the new baseline for the Ding model. Accordingly, different reference points may be selected for different applications without having to change the value of one or more parameters in the Ding model.

[0051] In one embodiment, the Ding model may be used to determine breakthrough time 206 by determining the concentration profile of the effluent 204 and comparing the concentration profile 204 of the effluent to the user input breakthrough concentration. For example, once the effluent concentration profile 204 is formed by the processor module 102, the breakthrough time found in the effluent concentration profile 204 may be the breakthrough time 206. Alternatively, the Ding model can be used to directly calculate the breakthrough time 206. For example, the reference point described above can be set to be equal to the stoichiometric center defined in Equation 9, so that the breakthrough time 206 can be defined as:

(Eq. 12) where q is the load of chemical pollutant (s) in the filter media or the adsorption equilibrium expressed in moles per kilogram; pb is the density of the filter particles in the filter bed, expressed in kilograms per cubic meter; V is the volume of the filter bed, expressed in cubic meters; F is the rate of flow of the chemical pollutant (s) through the filter media expressed in cubic meters per second; tr is breakthrough time 206, or residence time; and A is the split ratio which is calculated at the feed concentration Cf. The value of the adsorption equilibrium (q) can be calculated from experimental data, simulated isothermal models or can be entered by the user. From Equation 12, the separation ratio (A) and breakthrough time 206 (tr) can be determined by the following equations:

(Eq. 13) (Eq. 14)

Alternatively, one or more other mathematical models other than the Ding model described above may be used to determine one or more of the bed profiles, concentration profile 204 of the stream.

For example, one or more of the models described in Wood, Gerry O., Estimating Service Lives of Organic Vapor Cartridge, American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal (January 1994), pp. 11-15 may be used. ; Wood, Gerry O., Moyer, Ernest S .; A Review of the Wheeler Equation and Comparison of Its Applications to Organic Vapor Respirator Cartridge Breakthrough Data, Am. Indium. Hyg. Assoc. J. 50 (8): 400-407 (1989); Wood, Gerry O., Estimating Service Lives of Air-Purifying Respirator Cartridges for Reactive Gas Removal, J. of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, 2: 414-423 (2005); Wood, Gerry O., Organic Vapor Respirator Cartridge Breakthrough Curve Analysis, J. of the International Society for Respiratory Protection, Winter 1992-1993 (collectively referred to as the "Wood model"). [0053] In one embodiment, one or more of the variables described above in connection with Equations 1 through 14 may be input into the processor module 102 by a user on the user interface 106. Alternatively, one or more of the variables may be obtained by the processor module 102 from one of the user interfaces. or both of the computer readable storage media 110, 112. For example, the default value for the variable may be obtained from a computer-readable storage medium 110 as described above. In one embodiment, processor module 102 can retrieve chemical contamination data from a public, private, and / or custom database instead of requiring the user to enter that data, as described above.

In the filter cartridge selection mode, the processor module 102 obtains or receives one or more parameters to determine a recommended filter cartridge. In one embodiment, the processor module 102 may also determine one or more exhaust stream concentration profiles 204 and breakthrough time 206 as described above. . The recommended filter cartridge is the user recommended filter cartridge based on the input parameters. The input parameters used by the processor module 102 in the filter cartridge selection mode include, but are not limited to, one or more filter cartridge selection parameters. One or more conditions of use parameters may also be used as input parameters. The filter cartridge selection parameters include data or information relevant to the suitability or usability of the filter cartridge for the user. For example, filter cartridge selection parameters may include, but are not limited to, one or more of minimum life, comfort factor, price, empirical score, inventory, regional requirement, retirement indication, and use parameter flexibility.

[0055] The minimum life is the minimum life of the filter cartridge for which use is desired. For example, the user may enter the minimum life required by the user for any filter cartridge that will be recommended by the processor module 102. The processor module 102 may use the minimum life to eliminate one or more filter cartridges from the list of all possible filter cartridges. For example, based on the minimum life and one or more conditions of use parameters, processor module 102 can determine the breakthrough time 206 for several filter cartridges that do not meet or exceed the user-specified minimum life. These filter cartridges are eliminated from the list of possible cartridges for recommendation to the user. The minimum service life can be entered as an amount of time or as a range of acceptable operating times. The minimum lifetime may be entered via the user interface 106 and passed to the processor module 102 as input 104.

[0056] The comfort index includes information related to ease of use of the filter cartridge. On

For example, the comfort index may be expressed as the weight of the filter cartridge and / or the inhalation resistance of the filter cartridge The user may enter the comfort index as the maximum weight and / or maximum inhalation resistance of the filter cartridge to be recommended by the processor module 102. Processor module 102 can use the comfort indicator (s) to eliminate one or more filter cartridges from the list of all possible filter cartridges. For example, based on the maximum weight and / or maximum inhalation resistance, processor module 102 can eliminate several filter cartridges from the list of possible cartridges to recommend to the user. The filter cartridges to be eliminated may have a weight exceeding the maximum filter weight and / or inhalation resistance exceeding the maximum inhalation resistance. The comfort index may be input via the user interface 106 and sent to the processor module 102 as input 104.

[0057] The price parameter includes cost to the user of the filter cartridge. For example, the price may be a current market cost for purchasing the filter cartridge. The user may enter the price as the maximum cost of the filter cartridge that will be recommended by the processor module 102. The processor module 102 may use the price to eliminate one or more filter cartridges from the list of all possible filter cartridges. For example, based on the maximum user input cost, processor module 102 can eliminate several filter cartridges from the list of possible cartridges to recommend to the user. Eliminating filter cartridges may cost more than the maximum cost entered by the user. The price may be entered via the user interface 106 and passed to the processor module 102 as input 104.

[0058] The empirical result is a filter cartridge recommendation to a user based on a previous filter cartridge recommendation based on one or more common input parameters. Many of the empirical results from previous filter cartridge recommendations based on the respective input parameters can be stored on a computer-readable storage medium 110 and / or 112, for example as a database or table. Processor module 102 may query a database or table to determine if one or more user input filter cartridge selection parameters match filter cartridge selection parameters previously input by another user. If the sufficient number of cartridge selection parameters from the previous filter cartridge recommendation are substantially similar to the filter cartridge selection parameters currently input by the user, processor module 102 may recommend the same filter cartridge as previously recommended. In one embodiment, the user may modify the number of common filter cartridge selection parameters that are required prior to recommending the filter cartridge.

[0059] The inventory parameter includes the number of available filter cartridges. For example, the stocks of one or more filter cartridges that could be recommended to the user by the processor module 102 may be exhausted or otherwise unavailable. Processor module 102 can consider the stock of available filter cartridges and remove filter cartridges that are not in stock from the list of all filter cartridges for recommendation to the user. In this way, the processor module 102 avoids advising the user of an unavailable filter cartridge. Processor module 102 can access an inventory of available filter cartridges from a database or a list of available filter cartridges stored on one or more computer-readable storage media 110, 112.

EP 2 285 451 B1

[0060] The regional demand parameter includes the regional demand for the filter cartridge. For example, different governments and / or jurisdictions may have different minimum requirements for the filter cartridges. These minimum requirements may be stored on one or more computer readable storage media 110, 112 and accessible to processor module 102. Processor module 102 can access appropriate regional requirements to eliminate one or more filter cartridges from the set of available filter cartridges. For example, one or more filter cartridges may not meet or exceed the requirements of a particular jurisdiction. The processor module 102 can eliminate these filter cartridges from the list of possible filter cartridges for recommendation to the user. In one embodiment, processor module 102 can determine regional requirements for a user by obtaining the user's IP address ("IP"). For example, processor module 102 may obtain the IP address of the user interface 106 used by the user to enter filter cartridge selection parameters. Based on this IP address, the processor module 102 can determine what regional requirements may apply to the user and eliminate any filter cartridges that do not meet or exceed these regional requirements.

[0061] The pullout indication includes an indication that one or more filters are being removed from the market. For example, the filter cartridge may be associated with data that indicates that the filter cartridge is no longer manufactured, and the existing inventory of the filter cartridge is the residual inventory of the filter cartridge. Filter cartridge retirement indications may be stored in a list, table, or database stored on at least one computer readable storage medium 110, 112. Processor module 102 may consider retiring available filter cartridges and removing filter cartridges that are retired from the total cartridge list. filters to be recommended to the user. In this way, the processor module 102 avoids advising the user of a filter cartridge that is being phased out.

[0062] The induction includes an indication that one or more filters are in the process of being placed on the market. For example, the filter cartridge may be associated with data indicating that the filter cartridge is relatively new and is introduced gradually for use in a particular market or industry. Insertion indications for the filter cartridges may be stored in a list, table, or database stored on one or more computer-readable storage media 110, 112. Processor module 102 may take into account the insertion of filter cartridges and recommend only filter cartridges that are inserted.

[0063] The parameter of flexibility of use includes an indication of the number of breathing apparatuses which may be able to use a particular filter cartridge. For example, the flexibility of an application parameter can span multiple breathing apparatus with the filter cartridge compatible. Alternatively, the flexibility of the user parameter can be a relative indicator of how many breathing apparatuses a particular filter cartridge can use. For example, if the first filter cartridge can be used with more breathing apparatuses than the second filter cartridge, then the first filter cartridge can be associated with more flexibility in the usage parameter than the second filter cartridge. The usability flexibility parameter may be associated with each of the plurality of filter cartridges, for example in a list, table, database and the like on one or more computer readable storage media 110, 112.

[0064] In the filter cartridge selection mode, the processor module 102 receives one or more parameters

Selecting a filter cartridge and, based on the parameters, recommends to the user one or more filter cartridges. For example, processor module 102 may access a list of filter cartridges from computer readable media 110 and / or 112. Based on user input and / or available filter cartridge selection parameters 102, processor module 102 eliminates one or more filter cartridges from the list of filter cartridges. Processor module 102 may recommend one or more filter cartridges that remain in the list after eliminating those filter cartridges that do not meet user-input parameters. In one embodiment, processor module 102 also receives one or more conditions of use parameters. The processor module 102 may use the conditions of use parameters to determine the breakthrough time 206 of one or more filters in the list. The processor module 102 may recommend only those filters that meet the criteria defined in the filter cartridge selection parameters and have a sufficiently long breakthrough time 206. A sufficiently long breakthrough time 206 can be, for example, a minimum breakthrough time

[0065] In one embodiment, the processor module 102 does not recommend a filter cartridge until the minimum number or number of filter cartridge selection parameters and / or usage condition parameters are received by the processor module 102. For example, processor module 102 may not determine a recommended filter cartridge until at least one filter cartridge selection parameter, cartridge type, chemical contamination (contaminants), and chemical concentrations (concentrations) are available and / or received by processor module 102.

[0066] The processor module 102 forwards the recommended filter cartridge (s) (or data representative of the recommended filter cartridges) to the output device 108 as a given output 120. The output device 108 supplies the recommended filter cartridge (s) to the user. For example, the output device 108 may display an image of a recommended filter cartridge to the user. In one embodiment, processor module 102 determines a recommended filter cartridge and the output device 108 presents this to the user. The user may then modify, change, or add parameters to the processor module 102. Processor module 102 then determines whether the recommended filter cartridge needs to be updated. If so, the processor module 102 provides the updated filter cartridge recommendation and the output device 108 presents this to the user. For example, the user may change parameters entered into processor module 102 and processor module 102 dynamically changes or updates the recommended filter cartridge in response.

[0067] Fig. 2 shows a graphical user interface 200 used to input one or more parameters into the system 100 shown in Fig. 1 and to display the output 120 (shown in Fig. 1) to a user in accordance with one embodiment. The graphical user interface 200 may be displayed to the user at the output device 108 (shown in Fig. 1). The user uses an input device on the user interface 106 (shown in Fig. 1) for manipulating one or more buttons, slides, menus, lists, and the like on a graphical user interface 200. While Fig. 2 shows one embodiment of a graphical user interface for sending input 104 (shown in Fig. 1) to a module processor 102, other embodiments of graphical user interfaces with different layouts and graphical representations are possible.

[0068] The graphical user interface 200 includes a graph window 202. In the example shown

In the embodiment, the plot window 202 shows the concentration profile 204 of the effluent and the breakthrough time 206. The concentration profile of the effluent 204 may be represented as a data plot on a plot defined by the timeline 208 and the concentration axis 210. The breakthrough time 206 may be shown in the same chart. The data used to generate the exhaust stream concentration profile 204 may be produced by the processor module 102 (shown in Fig. 1) based on a mathematical model and one or more user input parameters as described above. The breakthrough time 206 can be determined by the processor module 102 by calculating the breakthrough concentration 212 and determining the time for which the effluent concentration profile 204 exceeds the breakthrough concentration 212. The breakthrough concentration 212 may be user input or may be obtained from one or more computer readable storage media 110, 112 (shown in Fig. 1). For example, the breakthrough concentration 212 may be based on or substantially similar to the occupational exposure limit and / or the level of protection of the particulates as applied by the user, as described above.

[0069] Summary window 214 provides a summary of user input and / or breakthrough time 206 calculated by the processor module 102 in one embodiment. For example, summary window 214 may display breakthrough time 206, user input chemical contamination, and user input chemical concentration.

The user may enter one or more of the parameters described above into the plurality of parameter windows 216, 218, 220, 222. In the illustrated embodiment, the user may enter ambient pressure in parameter window 216, respiration rate in parameter window 218, ambient temperature in the parameter window. 220 and the relative humidity in parameter window 222. The user may use the keyboard, stylus and the like to text input parameters into parameter windows 216, 218, 220, 222, and / or may select a value for the parameter from a pull-down menu. For example, parameter window 218 may provide a pull-down menu for the user to select a breathing rate. The user may select the variability relative to one or more of the parameters entered in parameter window 216, 218, 220, 222 in one or more variation windows 224, 226, 228, 230. For example, the user may enter a percentage in one of the variation windows 224, 226, 228, 230 to indicate the allowable variation for a parameter in the corresponding parameter window 216, 218, 220, 222. In one embodiment, a confidence value associated with the respective parameter input is input by the user via the variation windows 224, 226, 228, 230. For example, the user may enter a 5% confidence value in the variation window 224 for the ambient pressure parameter which is entered in parameter window 216, a 10% confidence value in the variation window 226 for the breathing rate parameter which is entered in parameter window 218, the confidence value 10% in the variation window 228 for the temperature parameter that is entered in the parameter window 220 and the 5% confidence value in the variation window 230 for the humidity parameter, which is entered in parameter window 222 as shown in the illustrated embodiment. The user may manipulate one or more sliders 232, 234, 236, 238 to change the corresponding parameter value that is entered in parameter windows 216, 218, 220, 222.

[0071] Recommendation 240 of the filter cartridge is presented to the user in a graphical user interface 200 in one embodiment. As described above, filter cartridge recommendation 240 includes a recommended filter cartridge selected by processor module 102 (shown in Fig. 1) based on one or more user inputs. In one example

In one embodiment, the filter cartridge order 240 may be shown as an image of a preferred filter cartridge as shown in the illustrated embodiment. Alternatively, filter cartridge order 240 may include one or more images of one or more user-selected filter cartridges. A filter cartridge label 242 may be displayed on a graphical user interface 200 in one embodiment. For example, an image of a filter cartridge label 242 that corresponds to filter cartridge recommendation 240 may be displayed on the graphical user interface 200. Alternatively, the filter cartridge label 242 may include one or more images of one or more labels for user-selected filter cartridges.

[0072] The cartridge list window 244 provides a list of filter cartridges that are selectable by a user in one embodiment. The user may select one or more filter cartridges from the cartridge list window 244. For example, the user may enter a parameter describing the type of cartridge described above by selecting one or more cartridges provided in the cartridge list window 244. The filter cartridges listed in the cartridge list window 244 may be limited based on one or more user input filter cartridge selection parameters as described above.

[0073] The contaminant list window 246 lists the chemical contaminants that are selected by a user in one embodiment. The user may select one or more chemical impurities from the impurity list window 246. For example, the user may enter the chemical impurity parameter described above by selecting one or more of the chemical impurities provided in the impurity list window 246.

[0074] In one embodiment, the contaminant search window 248 allows the user to enter one or more chemical contaminants such that the processor module 102 searches for a suitable chemical contaminant. For example, instead of viewing the list of chemical impurities provided in the impurity list window 246, the user may enter the chemical impurity name in the impurity search window 248 to enter the chemical impurity parameter into the processor module 102.

[0075] The chemical concentration window 250 allows the user to enter the chemical concentration parameter described above. The user may enter an acceptable variation for a chemical concentration parameter using the variation window 254. In one embodiment, the user enters a confidence value in the variation window 254, similar to that described above for the variation windows 224, 226, 228, 230. For example, the user may enter a 0% confidence value in the variation window 254, which corresponds to the chemical concentration parameter entered in the chemical concentration window 250. The breakthrough concentration window 252 allows the user to enter the breakthrough concentration 212 described above. One or both of the chemical concentration parameters and the breakthrough concentration 212 may be adjusted by the user by moving one or both of the sliders 256, 258.

[0076] As described above, after the processor module 102 (shown in Fig. 1) has determined the effluent concentration profile 204, the breakthrough time 206, and / or the recommended filter cartridge 240 based on the user input parameters, the processor module 102 may dynamically update one or more of the effluent concentration profile 204, the breakthrough time 206, and the preferred filter cartridge 240, if the user changes or updates one or more input parameters. For example, if a user changes a chemical contamination parameter by selecting a different pollutant

In the contaminant list window 246, the processor module 102 receives the updated chemical contamination parameter and, if necessary, updates the effluent concentration profile 204, breakthrough time 206, and / or recommended filter cartridge 240 based on the updated chemical contamination parameter, if necessary. .

[0077] Fig. 3 shows a graphical user interface 300 used to input one or more parameters into the system 100 shown in Fig. 1 in accordance with one embodiment. Similar to the graphical user interface 200 (shown in Fig. 2), the graphical user interface 300 may be displayed to the user at the output device 108 (shown in Fig. 1). The user uses an input device on the user interface 106 (shown in Fig. 1) for manipulating one or more buttons and sliders and the like on the graphical user interface 300. While Fig. 3 shows one embodiment of a graphical user interface for transmitting input 104 (shown in Fig. 1) to processor module 102, possible there are other embodiments of graphical user interfaces with different graphical layouts and presentations.

[0078] The graphical user interface 300 includes a plurality of sliders 302, 304, 306, 308 that are operated by the user to enter one or more of the parameters described above. For example, a user may apply an input device, such as a mouse, to the user interface 106 (shown in Fig. 1) to move one or more sliders 302, 304, 306, 308 to a position that corresponds to one or more input parameters. In the illustrated embodiment, the user may move the slider 302 to enter the minimum lifetime described above. For example, the user may move the slider 302 to the right in the graphical user interface 300 to indicate that the minimum life or breakthrough time of the filter cartridge to be recommended by the processor module 102 is relatively important to the user. Conversely, the user may move the slider 302 to the left to indicate that the minimum life or breakthrough time of the filter cartridge to be recommended by the processor module 102 is relatively unimportant to the user. The movement of the slider 302 is communicated to the processor module 102 as input 104. The processor module 102 receives the input minimum life parameter via the slider 302 and may limit the list of filter cartridges to respond to recommended to the user as the preferred filter cartridge 240 (shown in Fig. 2). For example, if the user uses slider 302 to indicate that the minimum life of the filter cartridge is relatively important, then the processor module 102 may limit possible filter cartridges that may be recommended for relatively long life filter cartridges. On the other hand, if the user uses slider 302 to indicate that the minimum life of the filter cartridge is relatively insignificant, then the processor module 102 may not limit possible filter cartridges that may be recommended based on the life of the filter cartridges. Alternatively, instead of indicating the relative importance of the life of the filter cartridge using the slider 302, the slider 302 may be used to introduce a minimum life. For example, slider 302 may be manipulated by a user to enter a minimum lifetime in the form of minutes, hours, or days. Optionally, another input mechanism other than the spool 302 is used to enter a minimum life. For example, you can use a window similar to windows 216 to 222.

[0079] The slider 304 may be used to enter the comfort index described above.

EP 2 285 451 B1

For example, the user may move the slider 304 to the right in the graphical user interface 300 to indicate that the convenience index of the filter cartridge to be recommended by the processor module 102 is relatively important to the user. Conversely, the user may move the slider 304 to the left to indicate that the comfort index of the filter cartridge to be recommended by the processor module 102 is relatively unimportant to the user. In one embodiment, the comfort index can be expressed as one or more of the weight and inhalation resistance of the filter cartridge. The movement of the slider 304 is communicated to the processor module 102 as input 104. The processor module 102 receives the comfort indicator inputs via the slider 304 and may limit the list of filter cartridges to respond recommended to the user as the preferred filter cartridge 240 (shown in Fig. 2). For example, if a user uses slider 304 to indicate that the comfort index of the filter cartridge is relatively important, then the processor module 102 may limit possible filter cartridges that may be recommended for filter cartridges with relatively low weights and / or low inhalation resistance. On the other hand, if the user uses slider 304 to indicate that the comfort index of the filter cartridge is relatively unimportant, then the processor module 102 may not limit possible filter cartridges that may be recommended based on the weight and / or inhalation resistance of the filter cartridges. Alternatively, instead of indicating the relative importance of the comfort index of the filter cartridge using the slider 304, the slider 304 may be used to enter the comfort index. For example, slider 304 may be manipulated by the user to enter the maximum weight and / or inhalation resistance of the filter cartridge. Optionally, another insertion mechanism other than slider 304 is used to enter the comfort index. For example, you can use a window similar to windows 216 to 222.

[0080] The slider 306 may be used to enter the above-described cost parameter. For example, the user may move the slider 306 to the right in the graphical user interface 300 to indicate that the cost of the filter cartridge to be recommended by the processor module 102 is relatively important to the user. Conversely, the user may move the slider 306 to the left, indicating that the cost of the filter cartridge to be recommended by the processor module 102 is relatively unimportant to the user. The movement of the slider 306 is provided to the processor module 102 as input 104. Processor module 102 receives cost parameter input via slider 306 and may limit the list of filter cartridges to be recommended to the user as recommended filter cartridge 240 in response (shown in Fig. 2). For example, if a user uses slider 306 to indicate that the price of the filter cartridge is relatively important, then the processor module 102 may limit possible filter cartridges that may be recommended for relatively low priced filter cartridges. On the other hand, if the user uses slider 306 to indicate that the price of the filter cartridge is relatively unimportant, then the processor module 102 may not limit possible filter cartridges that may be recommended based on the price of the filter cartridges. Alternatively, instead of indicating the relative importance of the price of the filter cartridge with the slider 306, the slider 306 may be used to input the price in a currency sum. For example, slider 306 may be manipulated by the user to enter the maximum price of the filter cartridge. Optionally, another input mechanism other than slider 306 is used to enter the cost parameter. For example, a window like windows 216 to 222 may be used.

[0081] Slider 308 may be used to input the above-described parameter

For flexibility in use. For example, the user may move the slider 308 to the right in the graphical user interface 300 to indicate that the flexibility of use of the filter cartridge to be recommended by the processor module 102 is relatively important to the user. Conversely, the user may move the slider 308 to the left to indicate that the flexibility parameter of the filter cartridge to be recommended by the processor module 102 is relatively unimportant to the user. The movement of the slider 308 is provided to the processor module 102 as input 104. The processor module 102 receives the flexibility of use parameter introduced by the slider 308 and may limit the list of filter cartridges to be recommended to the user as a preferred filter cartridge 240 in response (shown in Fig. 2). For example, if the user employs a slider 308 to indicate that the flexibility parameter of the filter cartridge is relatively important, then the processor module 102 may limit possible filter cartridges which may be recommended for filter cartridges with relatively high flexibilities in use. For example, processor module 102 may limit possible filter cartridges to filter cartridges that may be used with the most diverse breathing apparatus. On the other hand, if the user uses slider 308 to indicate that the flexibility parameter of the filter cartridge is relatively unimportant, then the processor module 102 may not limit possible filter cartridges that may be recommended based on the flexibility of use of the filter cartridges. Alternatively, instead of indicating the relative importance of the flexibility of application of the filter cartridge using the slider 308, the slider 308 may be used to introduce the parameter of flexibility of use in terms of the minimum number of breathing apparatus with which the preferred filter cartridge 240 (shown in Fig. 2) must be compatible. Optionally, another input mechanism other than the slider 308 is used to enter the flexibility of use parameter. For example, you can use a window similar to windows 216 to 222.

[0082] Fig. 4 is a flowchart of a method 400 for determining at least one effluent concentration profile, breakthrough time, and filter cartridge recommendation. At block 402, one or more input parameters are received. For example, one or more of the use condition parameters, location condition parameters, and filter cartridge selection parameters are input by the user to the user interface 106 and sent as input 104 to the processor module 102. At block 404, one or more input parameters are used to define one. or more effluent concentration, breakthrough time, and filter cartridge recommendations. For example, the Ding model described above can be used to calculate the concentration profile 204 of the effluent (shown in Fig. 2) and the breakthrough time 206 (shown in Fig. 2) as described above. At block 406, at least one effluent concentration profile, breakthrough time, and filter cartridge recommendation are displayed to the user. For example, the order image 240 of the filter cartridge (shown in Fig. 2) may be displayed to the user at the output device 108. At block 408, a decision is made as to whether any of parameters obtained at block 402 have been updated and / or whether any additional parameters have been received. If one or more parameters are updated or one or more additional parameters are received, method 400 proceeds between block 408 to block 410. If no parameters are updated or no more parameters are received, method 400 ends. At block 410, an updated effluent concentration profile, breakthrough time, and / or filter cartridge recommendation are determined. For example, changing or updating one or more

The effluent concentration profile, breakthrough time, and / or filter cartridge recommendation determined at block 404 may be affected by adding more parameters or adding more parameters. Updated and / or additional parameter (s) are included and used to establish an updated profile. effluent concentration, breakthrough time, and / or filter cartridge recommendation at block 410. At block 412, the updated effluent concentration profile, breakthrough time, and / or filter cartridge recommendation are displayed. For example, an updated profile of the effluent concentration and / or breakthrough time profile may be displayed on the output device 108. Method 400 proceeds from block 412 to block 408.

[0083] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of example methods in which one or more of the embodiments described herein may be stored, distributed, and installed on a computer readable medium. In Fig. 5, an "application" represents one or more of the above-described methods and process operations. For example, the application may represent a process performed in conjunction with Fig. 4 as discussed above.

[0084] As shown in Fig. 5, an application is initially generated and stored as source code 502 on a machine readable source medium 504. The source code 502 is then carried along path 506 and processed by a compiler 508 to form object code 510. Object code 510. it is carried via path 512 and saved as one or more application patterns on main computer readable medium 514. The object code 510 is then copied multiple times as indicated by path 516 to make copies 518 of the production applications that are stored on a separate machine readable production medium 520. The computer readable production medium 520 is then transferred along path 522 to various systems, devices, terminals, and the like. In the example of Fig. 5, user terminal 524, device 526, and system 528 are shown as examples of hardware components on which productively computer-readable production medium 520 as applications (designated 530, 532, 534) is installed.

[0085] The source code may be written as scripts or in any high-level or low-level language. Examples of the source, main, and production computer readable media 502, 514, and 520 include, but are not limited to, CDROM, RAM, ROM, Flash, RAID drives, computer system memory, and the like. Examples of paths 506, 512, 516, and 522 include, but are not limited to, network paths, Internet, Bluetooth, GSM, infrared wireless LAN, HIPERLAN, 3G, satellite networks, and the like. Paths 506, 512, 516, and 522 may also represent public or private vendor services that transport one or more physical copies of the machine-readable source, primary, or production media 502, 514, or 520 between two geographic locations. Paths 506, 512, 516, and 522 may represent threads being executed in parallel by one or more processors. For example, one computer may store source code 502, compiler 508, and object code 510.

Multiple computers can run concurrently to create a copy of the production application 518. Lanes 506, 512, 516, and 522 can be intra-country, inter-country, inter-country, country-to-country, inter-continent, continent-to-continent, and so on.

[0086] The operations noted in Fig. 5 can be performed in a widespread manner around the world, with only a part of them being performed in the United States. For example, code

EP 2 285 451 B1 source application 502 may have been written in the United States and saved on computer-readable media 504 in the United States, but was shipped to another country (corresponding to path 506) prior to compilation, copying, and installation. Alternatively, application 502 source code may be written in or outside of the United States, compiled on US-based compiler 508, and written to computer-readable US primary media 514, but object code 510 transported to another country (corresponding to path 516) prior to copying and installation. Alternatively, application source code 502 and object code 510 may be produced in or outside the United States, but production copies of the application 518 are produced or shipped to the United States (e.g., as part of a preparation operation) prior to installing production copies of the application 518 on terminals 524, devices 526 and / or user systems 528 located in or outside the United States as applications 530, 532, 534.

[0087] As used in the claims, the terms "computer readable medium" and "instructions configured for" are intended to refer to one or all of i) a computer readable source medium 504 and a source code 502, ii) a computer readable main medium and an object code 510. iii) a production machine readable medium 520 and production copies of the application 518; and / or iv) the application 530, 532, 534 stored in memory on the terminal 524. device 526 and system 528.