Patent ID: 6109262
Filing Date: 2000-08-29
Classification: A62B,G01N

Abstract:
Particle entrapment means for the capture of particles in an inhaled, or an exhaled air stream, the particle entrapment means comprising a body having a portion adapted to fit within the mouth or at least one nostril of a human, or other mammalian animal, in sealing engagement with the edges of that orifice, and a passage through the body to allow air to be inhaled by, or to be exhaled by the animal through the particle entrapment means, the passage having a non-linear path and including a collection means so placed in the passage that, during inhalation, air is drawn firstly towards and then secondly around the collection means so that particulate matter in the air inhaled by the animal will be caused to impact against the collection means due to the non-linearity of the passage and to be retained on the collection means such that the particulate matter retained on the collection means is prevented from entering the airways of the animal, said collection means being removable from the particle entrapment means to allow analysis of the particles impacted thereon.