College - Author 1
College of Engineering
Department - Author 1
Biomedical Engineering Department
Degree Name - Author 1
BS in Biomedical Engineering
College - Author 2
College of Engineering
Department - Author 2
Electrical Engineering Department
Degree - Author 2
BS in Electrical Engineering
College - Author 3
College of Engineering
Department - Author 3
Mechanical Engineering Department
Degree - Author 3
BS in Mechanical Engineering
College - Author 4
College of Engineering
Department - Author 4
General Engineering Department
Degree - Author 4
BS in General Engineering
Date
6-2024
Primary Advisor
Iian Black, College of Engineering, Biomedical Engineering Department
Additional Advisors
Lily Laiho, College of Engineering, Biomedical Engineering Department Matthew Zoerb, College of Science and Mathematics, Chemistry and Biochemistry Department
Abstract/Summary
This paper presents the development of First Respire and their design of a powered air-purifying respirator (PAPR) specifically curated for wildland firefighter while simultaneously addressing the critical absence of respiratory protection for wildland firefighters operating in the challenging wildland-urban interface (WUI) environments. Current respiratory protection options, such as bandanas and N95 masks, fall short in providing adequate defense against toxic particulate matter and gases, exposing firefighters to increased risks of health complications, including cancers and respiratory diseases. Through collaborative efforts of the Wildfire Conservancy, the WUI Fire Institute at Cal Poly, and CAL FIRE, First Respire aims to create a durable, NFPA 1984-compliant device that offers effective respiratory protection while considering the specific needs and challenges faced by wildland firefighters. This paper outlines the significant objectives, drawing from stakeholder discussions and numerical specifications outlined in NFPA 1984 standards. The design focuses on addressing key challenges such as respiratory resistance, weight distribution, duration of use, heat resistance, donning/doffing time, and communication interference. The device integrates two subsystems, air filter and air delivery, ensuring the interdependence of these subsystems for optimal performance. Consideration is given to the comfort, adjustability, and compatibility with existing gear to encourage widespread adoption.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/bmedsp/191