Using 3D head and respirator shapes to analyze respirator fit

Abstract

A computational approach to analyzing respirator fit is demonstrated using geometries generated by laser scanning, mechanical drawings, and CAD files. Three fit-related problems that can be solved using computational tools are demonstrated: 1) The study of an outward leak of breathing gases into a near-flammable environment. 2) The study of a flow field inside a half-facepiece respirator. 3) The characterization of the relationship of respirator design and head shape to fit and comfort. © 2009 Springer Berlin Heidelberg.